Tech Policy & Regulation
Analyze the intersection of law and technology. Stay updated on global compliance standards, government tech regulations, censorship laws, and evolving digital policies.
202 articles
Grid Operator PJM Targets New Data Centers With Curtailment Rules Amid Power Crunch
PJM Interconnection proposed rules to cut power to new data centers before homes during shortages, requiring 50MW-plus facilities to bring their own generation by 2027.
Flock Safety’s New Guardrails Fail to Silence Privacy Concerns
Flock Safety requires case numbers for searches, but critics say loopholes remain amid a growing surveillance backlash from cities and activists.
Lawmakers Move to Ban AI Marriage as Chatbot Relationships Grow
Republican state lawmakers are drafting legislation to prevent human-AI marriages from gaining legal recognition, responding to a trend of people forming romantic bonds with chatbots.
First US Case of AI Prompt Injection in Court Filings Sets Dangerous Precedent
A Connecticut judge found a litigant hid AI-readable instructions in court documents. The tactic, though ineffective, signals a new threat to legal system integrity.
Violent Cargo Thefts Target AI Hardware on California Highways
Cargo thieves are using violent tactics to hijack AI servers in California, exploiting U.S. export controls that drive black market prices in China far above retail.
Android App Turns Your Phone Into a Censorship-Fighting Tool
A new Android app allows anyone to run a Tor proxy from their phone, showing real-time impact on bypassing internet censorship. No technical expertise required.
Apple Faces New Privacy Questions Over Encryption Standards
Apple's encryption tools for private conversations face renewed government pressure. The outcome could reshape privacy protections for millions of iPhone users.
FAA Recruits Videogamers to Solve Air Traffic Controller Shortage
The FAA is hiring over 2,000 videogamers as air traffic controllers, leveraging gaming skills to address a critical staffing shortage.
FCC Approves Space Mirrors Despite Expert Warnings on Stargazing and Wildlife
FCC authorizes Reflect Orbital's sunlight-reflecting satellites. Experts warn of light pollution disrupting astronomy and wildlife. The plan advances space solar power with regulatory and environmental controversy.
Phone Tracking Joins License Plate Readers in Expanding Surveillance Reach
New surveillance technology allows license plate readers to also track nearby phones by capturing device signals. The capability raises serious privacy concerns as it links vehicle and personal data.
Surveillance System Links Mobile Devices to License Plates in Real Time
Leonardo's SignalTrace pairs phone signals with license plate data to build device-vehicle profiles. Law enforcement can then track individuals without knowing plate numbers.
Google Play Now Hosts Rival App Store After Epic Antitrust Win
Google's Play Store now hosts a rival app store for the first time, following the Epic antitrust ruling. Aptoide's listing marks a shift in Android's app distribution.
FCC Robot Import Ban Threatens US Research and Innovation
The FCC banned imports of advanced foreign robots, citing security and competition. But the move could backfire by blocking affordable Chinese robots used in 90% of US university research.
Social Platforms Face Continued Legal Pressure Over User Addiction Claims
Social media companies face thousands of addiction lawsuits after courts rejected their appeals, potentially forcing changes to platform design and legal standards.
After 24 Years, Return to Castle Wolfenstein Goes Uncut in Germany
After 24 years, Return to Castle Wolfenstein is finally uncut in Germany. Bethesda's QuakeCon announcement ends a censorship saga over Nazi symbolism.
Europe Expands IRIS² Satellite Network to 348 Units as Starlink Rival Takes Shape
The European Commission signed an implementation agreement with SpaceRISE, expanding the IRIS² constellation to 348 satellites. First launches are set for 2029, with a €15.6 billion budget to provide secure government communications.
Flock Cameras Spread Nationwide, Location Data Often Hidden
Automated license plate readers from Flock Safety monitor millions of vehicles daily. Learn why transparency varies by jurisdiction and what residents can do.
FCC Proposes Ban on LiDAR-Equipped Foreign Drones, Expanding Covered List Restrictions
The FCC proposes banning foreign drones with LiDAR and other features deemed military-grade. Popular models like DJI's Air 3S could be blocked from U.S. sales. The rule also covers thermal sensors, swarm operations and light shows.
Flock's Abandoned Plan to Turn Uber and Lyft Cars Into Surveillance Cameras
An abandoned Flock plan would have installed license plate readers on 350,000 Uber and Lyft vehicles, raising major privacy concerns.