California passes sweeping law to protect online privacy
The new law grants consumers the right to know what information companies are collecting about them, why they are collecting that data and with whom they are sharing it.
Internet rights
U.S. Supreme Court rules that police will need a warrant for cell phone location data
The motion, which was passed in a 5-4 majority on Friday, is a definitive stepping stone to setting up a framework that protects Americans from law enforcement and government officials taking advantage of our technological lives.
Study shows that Reddit is helping people cope with mental illness
The researchers analyzed the language used by subscribers on the r/depression subreddit, concluding that users’ language improved in nine of 10 categories, suggesting r/depression prompted a “positive emotion change” in users.
Google’s new Africa app aims to beat slow internet speeds, high data costs
Google is releasing an app in Africa that will help internet users overcome obstacles such as the lack of high-speed connectivity and the cost of data on the continent.
Washington becomes first state in the nation to pass net neutrality regulations in defiance of FCC
A bill that reinstates protections repealed by the Federal Communications Commission in December passed both houses of Washington state’s legislature Tuesday afternoon. It now heads to the governor’s desk to be signed.
United Kingdom vows to make access to broadband speed internet a legal right for its citizens
Earlier this year, the passage of the Digital Economy Act ensured that by 2020, all residents of the U.K. will have the right to demand broadband service at speeds of at least 10 Mbps (compromised down from 30 Mbps) through a provision in the law called the Universal Service Obligation.
Canada declares high-speed internet a basic service
The regulator has now officially declared broadband access as necessary for the quality of life of all citizens, a claim backed by up to CAD$750 million (US$556 million) in new funding to bring every last Canadian online.