Tech Break 4165

Jason Howell and Megan Morrone discuss the news that Germany wants to fine social media companies over hate speech. Facebook, Twitter, and others could face fines of up to 57 million dollars if they fail to remove illegal, racist, or slanderous comments within 24 hours of receiving a report of the offense. The German parliament approved the Network Enforcement Act, which they say is not a limitation, but a prerequisite for freedom of expression. Privacy groups have some concerns about whether the bill will force Facebook and others to censor users which would not only limit free speech, but also give social media too much of a say in deciding what exactly constitutes free expression. Privatizing the policing of speech could have chilling effects. For their part, Facebook says they're already removing 66,000 posts a week and they admit there is more work to be done.

Full episode at twit.tv/tnt/1801

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