Yazılar

EU Announces Guidelines to Prevent AI Misuse by Employers, Websites, and Police

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The European Commission unveiled new guidelines on Tuesday aimed at curbing the misuse of artificial intelligence (AI) in various sectors, including employment, online services, and law enforcement. As part of the European Union’s broader AI regulations, the guidelines prohibit practices such as using AI to track employees’ emotions or to manipulate consumers into spending money online.

The guidelines are part of the EU’s Artificial Intelligence Act, which, while legally binding since last year, will be fully enforceable by August 2, 2026. Some provisions, such as those concerning specific AI practices, take effect earlier, including the ban on deceptive AI practices from February 2 this year.

Prohibited practices under the guidelines include the use of AI to create “dark patterns” on websites designed to manipulate users into making financial commitments, as well as AI applications that exploit individuals based on factors like age, disability, or socio-economic status. Additionally, social scoring systems that use personal data, such as race or origin, to categorize individuals are banned, alongside the use of biometric data by police to predict criminal behavior without proper verification.

Employers are also restricted from using surveillance tools like webcams or voice recognition systems to monitor employees’ emotions. The guidelines further prohibit the use of mobile CCTV cameras equipped with facial recognition for law enforcement, except under strict conditions with safeguards in place.

The EU has given member countries until August 2 to designate market surveillance authorities to enforce these AI rules. Companies found in violation could face hefty fines ranging from 1.5% to 7% of their global revenue. This comprehensive regulatory framework contrasts with the United States’ voluntary compliance approach and China’s focus on maintaining social stability through state-controlled AI.

 

International Law Enforcement Operation Targets Cybercrime Websites

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On Wednesday, the FBI, along with multiple law enforcement agencies, seized a series of cybercrime-related websites as part of an operation called “Operation Talent.” The seizure, confirmed by notices posted on the affected websites, included the websites themselves, along with customer and victim data.

Europol confirmed the operation was coordinated under its guidance, and a spokesperson indicated more details would be provided in the next 24 hours. The FBI has yet to comment on the operation.

The operation specifically targeted websites associated with popular cybercrime platforms, including Cracked, Nulled, StarkRDP, Sellix, and MySellix. These sites were known for their involvement in illegal activities, facilitating access to stolen login credentials, pirated software, video game cheats, and stolen credit card information, according to reports from Bleeping Computer and VX-Underground.

A message posted on a Cracked Telegram channel later confirmed the seizure, though it did not provide specific reasons for the action. The post expressed disappointment and noted that administrators were awaiting more information from the website’s domain host and data center. “A sad day indeed for our community,” the message stated.

 

TikTok Prepares to Shut Down U.S. Operations as Ban Deadline Approaches

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TikTok is preparing to shut down its U.S. operations on Sunday, as a federal ban is set to take effect barring its use unless its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, divests the app. This follows a law signed in April mandating a ban on new TikTok downloads and the prohibition of U.S. companies providing services for its distribution or maintenance. Although users who have already downloaded the app could still access it, the law restricts the ability to update or provide services to TikTok starting Sunday.

In response to the imminent shutdown, TikTok plans to display a pop-up message directing users to a website explaining the situation. Additionally, the company will give users the option to download their personal data. Despite the looming deadline, there are discussions around a potential delay. President-elect Donald Trump is reportedly considering issuing an executive order to suspend enforcement of the ban for up to 90 days. This proposal comes as the Biden administration is exploring options to delay the ban, possibly leaving the decision to the incoming president.

The situation remains fluid, with ongoing court deliberations. The U.S. Supreme Court is set to decide whether to uphold or pause the law. If TikTok is banned, it could lead to a broader impact, potentially making the app unavailable in other countries, as U.S.-based service providers play a crucial role in making TikTok accessible worldwide. TikTok has expressed concerns that the ban could make its operations unsustainable, with data centers unable to store the platform’s content and code.

While TikTok works to comply with the law, it has stated that a temporary suspension could allow for a swift restoration of its U.S. services if the ban is reversed later.