FTC Commissioner Warns New Report Could Be Used By Big Tech To Justify Censorship
SUMMARY
A new 129-page FTC report investigating the data practices of major social media and video streaming platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, and Twitter, highlights concerns about privacy violations and harmful algorithms affecting children and teens. While the report acknowledges a "vast surveillance" operation by these companies, FTC Commissioner Melissa Holyoak raised concerns about its implications for free speech. In her response, Holyoak warned that the vague language calling for "more stringent testing and monitoring standards" could be misinterpreted by Big Tech to justify censorship, potentially infringing on Americans' First Amendment rights. She highlighted that platforms often rely on "trust and safety professionals" to make decisions on content moderation, which could further suppress dissenting views. Despite the report's claim that it doesn't endorse political censorship, Holyoak stressed that its recommendations could lead to greater restrictions on free speech.
