UK-based Open Data Institute outlines vision for EU AI Act and data policy
ODI's manifesto urges EU to adopt six principles for trusted, inclusive, and competitive AI and data governance.
UK minister defends use of live facial recognition vans
She refutes claims that facial recognition is implemented outside legal limits.
US NIST finalizes standard to protect small devices with lightweight cryptography
NIST has finalized a lightweight cryptography standard to secure billions of small devices in the Internet of Things and beyond. Based on the Ascon family of algorithms, the standard offers efficient and adaptable protection while preparing for future cybersecurity needs.
Austrian Supreme Court asks EU’s top court to clarify rules on automated credit checks
The Austrian Supreme Court has asked the EU’s top court to clarify whether online retailers can legally use automated credit checks to limit customer payment options without violating data protection rights. The case centers on whether such decisions—like refusing installment payments based solely on algorithmic scoring—significantly affect consumers under Article 22 of the GDPR. The outcome could set a major precedent for how e-commerce companies across Europe use automation in financial decisions.
Wikimedia Foundation loses initial legal challenge over UK Online Safety Act
The High Court has rejected Wikimedia’s attempt to narrow the scope of the Online Safety Act’s strictest regulations, but left room for further legal review if Wikipedia is formally classified as a Category 1 service.
EU opens consultation on quantum-safe digital security
The EU is asking for public input on how to secure Europe’s digital future against the risks posed by quantum computing. Civil society, industry, and academia all have a role to play in shaping a safe, inclusive, and quantum-resistant internet.
Canada issues updated guidance on the use of biometric technologies
The Privacy Commissioner of Canada has released updated guidance for public and private sector organisations on the responsible use of biometric technologies, following an extensive consultation process.
ICANN working group seeks feedback on root server governance model
ICANN’s Root Server System Governance Working Group is seeking public feedback on a proposed Functional Model for managing the internet’s root server system. The consultation is open from 11 August to 22 September 2025 before the final report is submitted to ICANN’s Board and other stakeholders.
GNI calls for rights-based reforms to Sri Lanka’s Online Safety Act
The Global Network Initiative has issued detailed recommendations urging Sri Lanka to reform its Online Safety Act in line with international human-rights standards. GNI warns that vague content restrictions, disproportionate penalties and an insufficiently independent Online Safety Commission threaten freedom of expression, privacy and democratic participation, and calls for a transparent, inclusive review process supported by concrete legal safeguards.
ITU outlines progress on Global Digital Compact implementation in report to WSIS and SDG working group
A new report from the ITU Secretary-General details advances in digital inclusion, infrastructure investment, AI capacity-building and UN-wide coordination supporting the Global Digital Compact, ahead of broader implementation work under the Pact for the Future.
