US supreme court allows government to request removal of misinformation on social media
GuardianJUN 14 2024
Ahead of the 2024 US presidential election, the FBI is set to resume regular talks with social media firms over "potential [Foreign Malign Influence] threats" on their platforms.Ahead of the 2024 US presidential election, the FBI is set to resume regular talks with social media firms over "potential [Foreign Malign Influence] threats" on their platforms, according to a draft Justice Department memo.
The federal agency will reportedly make social media companies more aware of their new protocol for monitoring suspected foreign influence operations online.The federal agency will reportedly make social media companies more aware of its new protocol for monitoring suspected foreign influence operations online.
A report by Justice Department Inspector General Michael E. Horowitz last month highlighted the need for agencies to speak with tech firms on such influence campaigns, but that safeguards were needed to avoid risks to freedom of expression.A report by Justice Department Inspector General Michael E. Horowitz last month highlighted the need for agencies to speak with tech firms on such influence campaigns but that safeguards were needed to avoid risks to freedom of expression.
The FBI's renewed collaboration with social media companies is critical to address foreign malign influences, particularly duringamid USthe elections.upcoming Theseelection, interactionswhich must emphasizebe the importance of protecting our electionsprotected. The Justice Department aims to improve transparency about these efforts while ensuring First Amendment rights are respected.
Recent disclosures of the FBI's interactions with social media firms like Twitter suggest attempts to influence information flow. Besides pressuring the platforms to act against so-called misinformation, it also influences political decisions. The need for vigilance against government overreach is key, and there is no reason for the government to intercede in political discourse online.