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LinkedIn’s New Generative AI Feature: What You Need to Know
by Jacinta Wothaya 23 Sep '24

23 Sep '24

Dear listers, LinkedIn has stirred up controversy by introducing a feature allowing the platform and its affiliates to use personal data and user-generated content to train generative AI models <https://www.linkedin.com/help/linkedin/answer/a6278444>. While this move reflects the growing trend of data commodification in the age of artificial intelligence, it raises serious concerns regarding user consent and privacy. The new feature allows LinkedIn to leverage the vast amount of data generated by its users to enhance its AI capabilities. This decision is not unexpected; as AI technology becomes more sophisticated, data is increasingly recognized as a valuable asset. However, LinkedIn’s implementation has come under fire for its lack of transparency. *Many users were automatically opted in to this feature without prior notification*, igniting fears over data misuse. The company has just updated the privacy policy on its website <https://www.linkedin.com/legal/privacy-policy#use> to reflect the new changes, effective September 18, 2024. According to LinkedIn's FAQs <https://www.linkedin.com/help/linkedin/answer/a5538339>, opting out means that the platform and its affiliates won’t use your personal data or content to train models going forward. However, this does not affect any training that has already taken place. Furthermore, opting out does not prevent LinkedIn from using your personal data for training non-content-generating generative AI models. Users must object to this latter use by filling out a separate opt-out form provided by LinkedIn <https://nam06.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linke…> . The move appears to contravene several important regulations designed to protect user privacy. Under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the EU, Article 6 stipulates that personal data must be processed lawfully, fairly, and transparently. LinkedIn’s failure to notify users may violate these principles, particularly the requirement for informed consent. Furthermore, Article 7 mandates that consent must be freely given and can be withdrawn at any time. LinkedIn's FAQ for its AI training claims that it uses “privacy-enhancing technologies to redact or remove personal data” from its training sets. Notably, the platform states it does not train its models on users located in the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, which may provide some level of assurance for users in those regions. Similarly, the Kenya Data Protection Act (2019) emphasizes the importance of consent. Section 26 of this act requires data controllers to obtain explicit consent from users before processing their personal data. By automatically opting users in, LinkedIn could be infringing upon these legal protections, raising significant questions about its compliance with data protection laws. Notably, LinkedIn's recent move isn't an isolated case but is part of a broader trend where tech giants exploit user data to fuel AI advancements. Only recently, Meta allegedly confessed to using all public text and photos of adult Facebook and Instagram users to train its AI models since 2007 <https://www.theverge.com/2024/9/12/24242789/meta-training-ai-models-faceboo…> . Such practices raise important questions about user rights, data ownership, and ethical considerations in AI development. While the potential for innovation is significant, the risks associated with unauthorized data use cannot be overlooked. Tech giants will continue to push the boundaries of data utilization, and we are likely to see increasing scrutiny from governments and regulatory bodies worldwide. Nonetheless, existing laws may not be sufficient to address the complexities introduced by AI and big data, and the need for robust legislation to increase transparency, consent, and accountability in data usage has never been more pressing. At the moment, it is the user's responsibility to stay informed and proactive about their data privacy but we look forward to a time when all tech companies innovate with user protection as the priority. *How to Opt-Out of Your Account Being Used for Training Generative AI * 1. While logged into your LinkedIn account, go to *Settings & Privacy*. 2. Click on *Data Privacy*. 3. Select *Data for Generative AI Improvement* and turn off the feature. 4. To stop your data from being used for non-content-generating AI models, complete the following form provided by LinkedIn <https://www.linkedin.com/help/linkedin/ask/TS-DPRO>. Best, *Jacinta Wothaya,* *Digital Resilience Fellow @**KICTANet* <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/>, @*tatua <https://tatua.digital/>* LinkedIn: *Jacinta Wothaya <http://www.linkedin.com/in/jacinta-wothaya-510a8b153>*

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Regulation of mobile surveillance technologies in Kenya
by Christian Mutiga Kibaara 21 Sep '24

21 Sep '24

In the past decade a lot of mobile surveillance technology has become available to the general public on ecommerce sites and tech product retailers. This includes Apple's Airtag which is a tracking device paired to one's phone, concealed cameras and recording devices, among others. I happened across a video discussing Australian authorities in New South Wales discussing offences involving these devices, and how a share of these offences, which are still underreported, are committed by family and domestic abuse suspects. In Kenya, are these products monitored in the market? Is there any regulation as to their use by the general public without security approvals?

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Mozilla to shut down its Mastodon server, Mozilla.social, on December 17th
by Victor Kapiyo 21 Sep '24

21 Sep '24

Mozilla announced that it will be closing down its Mastodon server, Mozilla.social, on December 17th, 2024. The decision comes as part of Mozilla's strategic shift to focus its resources on its core products, including the Firefox web browser and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI). Mozilla.social, which was launched as an experiment in the open social web or 'fediverse', had a relatively small user base compared to other Mastodon instances. Users of Mozilla.social will have the option to download their data or migrate their accounts to another Mastodon instance before the shutdown. Mozilla's decision highlights the challenges faced by smaller players in the decentralized social media landscape and underscores the need for continued innovation and support for open platforms. Read more: https://techcrunch.com/2024/09/17/mozilla-exits-the-fediverse-and-will-shut…

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Apply for Llama 3.1 Impact African Hackathon 2024 for AI Innovators
by Grace Githaiga 19 Sep '24

19 Sep '24

Listers This might be of interest to some of you. AfriLabs is excited to invite *Artificial Intelligence (AI) startups* to apply for the *Llama 3.1 Impact African Hackathon *funded by *Meta and Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF).* Offering a chance to win up to *$100,000* in funding, this fully sponsored, in-person event will take place in Kigali, Rwanda, from October 8-10, 2024. We are seeking AI developers, software engineers, tech enthusiasts, students in technical fields, gender studies professionals, and startup founders from Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and Rwanda to participate. *About the Hackathon* The hackathon is focused on fostering AI innovation that addresses social impact issues such as gender sensitivity, linguistic diversity, innovation & creativity, technical implementation, economic development & business potential, education & skills development, and public services, etc. across Africa. Participants will collaborate in cross-disciplinary teams to develop AI-driven solutions that eliminate gender bias in digital content, while ensuring linguistic inclusivity & diversity using Meta's Llama AI technology. *Key Highlights* - Fully Sponsored Event: All travel, accommodation, and daily needs covered for participants. - Mentorship: Receive guidance from industry experts at Meta, BMGF, and AfriLabs. - Funding Opportunities: Showcase your solution and have the opportunity to apply directly for the Llama Impact Grants, with a chance to receive up to $100,000 in funding through the regional track to further enhance and scale your solution. Additionally, you could secure up to $500,000 in seed funds through the global track of the Llama Impact Grants to support the launch of your project. - Promoting Diversity: Drive innovation in AI by addressing gender sensitivity and linguistic diversity in Africa. *Eligibility* - Citizenship/Residency: Applicants must be citizens and residents of one of the four eligible African countries: *Nigeria, Rwanda, Kenya,* or *South Africa*. While citizenship is required, participants should also have legal residency status in these countries to ensure local engagement and relevant contextual understanding. - Age: 18 years and above. - Background/Expertise: Innovators, AI developers, entrepreneurs, and students with relevant experience in AI, technology, gender studies, or digital solutions. - Interest and Motivation: Applicants must submit evidence of previous AI-related projects. - Availability: Full Participation in the three-day hackathon event (holding 8th - 10th October 2024) and any virtual engagements or preparations leading up to the event. - Language Proficiency: Proficient understanding of English, as this will be the primary language used during the hackathon. Applicants must be from Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, or Rwanda. Applications are open until September 21, 2024. To apply, please click on the apply tab below. Don’t miss this opportunity to contribute to AI for good while gaining mentorship and networking with leaders in AI innovation. [image: Apply Now] [image: Facebook icon] <https://afrilabs.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95c992335bb6df06e38c3f6…> [image: Instagram icon] <https://afrilabs.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95c992335bb6df06e38c3f6…> [image: Twitter icon] <https://afrilabs.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95c992335bb6df06e38c3f6…> [image: LinkedIn icon] <https://afrilabs.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95c992335bb6df06e38c3f6…> [image: Logo] *Copyright (C) 2024 AfriLabs. All rights reserved.* You are receiving this email because you have participated in an AfriLabs activity and part of the AfriLabs extended community Our mailing address is: AfriLabs 18, Khartoum Street, Wuse Zone 5 Abuja 900285 Nigeria Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences <https://afrilabs.us13.list-manage.com/profile?u=95c992335bb6df06e38c3f6e8&i…> or unsubscribe <https://afrilabs.us13.list-manage.com/unsubscribe?u=95c992335bb6df06e38c3f6…> -- Kind regards, Dr. Grace Githaiga*,* CEO@*KICTANet* <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/> @ggithaiga <http://twitter.com/ggithaiga> | LinkedIn <https://www.linkedin.com/in/gracegithaiga/> ___________________________ KICTANet.or.ke <https://kictanet.or.ke/> | Twitter <https://twitter.com/kictanet> | LinkedIn <https://www.linkedin.com/company/kictanet/> | Facebook <https://www.facebook.com/KICTANet/> | Instagram <https://www.instagram.com/kictanet/> | Youtube <https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbcLVjnPtTGBEeYLGUb2Yow/videos> | TikTok <https://www.tiktok.com/@kictanet> KICTANet: *Transformed communities through the power of ICTs*

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UNESCO offers recommendations for regulation and national policies on AI
by Gachungi, Lydia 18 Sep '24

18 Sep '24

UNESCO offers recommendations for regulation and national policies on AI (g20.org)<https://www.g20.org/en/news/unesco-offers-recommendations-for-regulation-an…> In an interview with the G20 website, UNESCO Assistant Director General for Communication and Information Dr. Tawfik Jelassi, discussed media freedom, information literacy, the safety of journalists, and tackling disinformation with the initiative "Internet for Trust." He also addresses digital transformation, artificial intelligence ethics, and the inclusion of indigenous languages and people living with disabilities in the digital space.

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Major action against an encrypted communication platform used for criminal activities - Press Conference on 18 September
by Jacinta Wothaya 17 Sep '24

17 Sep '24

Dear Listers, On Wednesday, 18 September 2024, Europol will host a press conference to announce the results of a significant international law enforcement operation targeting an encrypted communication platform linked to major criminal activities, including drug trafficking, homicides, and money laundering. *Details of the Press Conference:* - *Date:* Wednesday, 18 September 2024 - *Time:* 11:00 CEST - *Location:* Europol Headquarters, The Hague, Netherlands - *Livestream:* Available on Europol’s homepage <https://www.europol.europa.eu> *Speakers Include:* - Europol - French National Gendarmerie (Gendarmerie Nationale) - Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) - Australian Federal Police (AFP) - Irish An Garda Síochána - Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) *Countries and Organisations Involved:* Australia, Canada, France, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Sweden, United States, Europol, Eurojust The upcoming event may be of interest to you, especially in light of the recent arrest of Telegram's CEO and developments surrounding encrypted communication platforms. The decision is expected to have substantial implications for the use of encrypted communications platforms and Tatua is especially interested in how it will impact the use of encryption by at-risk communities, particularly activists and whistleblowers who rely on encrypted messaging for safety. Best, *Jacinta Wothaya,* *Digital Resilience Fellow @**KICTANet* <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/>, @*tatua <https://tatua.digital/>* LinkedIn: *Jacinta Wothaya <http://www.linkedin.com/in/jacinta-wothaya-510a8b153>*

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Re: Discussion: Shaping Kenya's Cybersecurity Ecosystem
by David Indeje 16 Sep '24

16 Sep '24

Dear Listers, *Day 3:* The CMCA has profound implications for businesses, individuals, and the digital economy in Kenya. Its effectiveness in balancing innovation with cybersecurity, addressing emerging technologies, and protecting individual rights is a subject of ongoing debate. Today, we encourage discussion on the challenges and opportunities presented by the CMCA and explore potential solutions to enhance its effectiveness in shaping a secure and vibrant digital future for Kenya. *Section 5: Impact on Businesses and Individuals.* 1. How has the CMCA impacted businesses in Kenya in terms of cybersecurity practices and investments? 2. Do you believe the CMCA adequately protects the rights of individuals in the digital space? 3. Have there been any unintended consequences of the CMCA on businesses or individuals? 4. How has the CMCA affected the digital economy in Kenya? *Section 6: An analysis of the effectiveness of the CMCA to embrace emerging technologies and the cyberthreats they pose therein.* 1. How does the CMCA balance the need for innovation with cybersecurity? 2. Does the Act create an environment conducive to technological advancement or are there any provisions that stifle innovation? 3. How well does the CMCA address emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT), quantum computing and cryptocurrency? What can be done to enhance its ability to address these lacunas (if any). 4. How can the legal framework provided by the CMCA be enhanced to regulate the use of emerging technologies, while protecting individual digital rights? *Section 7: General Questions.* 1. Are there any legal uncertainties or ambiguities in the Act that hinder its effectiveness? 2. What are the capacity-building needs of law enforcement and the judiciary in addressing cybercrimes related to emerging technologies? 3. Is the country’s cybersecurity infrastructure sufficiently robust to address the challenges posed by emerging technologies? 4. Any other relevant comment that you may wish to include as regards the CMCA? -- *Kind Regards,* *David Indeje* *@**KICTANet* <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/> * Communications *_____________________________________ +254 (0) 711 385 945 | +254 (0) 734 024 856 KICTANet portals Connect With Us <https://linktr.ee/Kictanet> ______________________________________

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Online Disinformation in Electoral Processes: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Democracies
by Victor Kapiyo 14 Sep '24

14 Sep '24

Dear listers, UNESCO is launching a global series of webinars for judicial operators as part of its AI and the Rule of Law Programme. The webinars will address: Gender Rights in the Judiciary in the era of Artificial Intelligence The Impact of AI on Law Enforcement The exacerbation of Online Disinformation in the Electoral Process through Artificial Intelligence, and The Practical Applications and Transformative Use Cases of Artificial Intelligence in the Judicial System. While the benefits of Artificial Intelligence are undoubtedly remarkable, it is essential that we delve into the profound legal and ethical implications that accompany its integration into our societies, including judicial systems. The Global Webinar Series will delve into critical topics to judicial operators and the legal profession at large. The Series aims to explore and unpack the implications raised by AI within the judiciary, and to encourage the potential of AI is harnessed both ethically and responsibly while promoting human rights and access to justice. https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/online-disinformation-electoral-processe…

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Joint Memorandum on the Assembly and Demonstrations Bill, 2024
by David Indeje 11 Sep '24

11 Sep '24

Dear Listers, We, Access Now and KICTANet, as Kenyan non-governmental and civil society organizations with expertise in human rights and information and communication technologies (ICTs), submit this joint memorandum <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/mdocs-posts/joint-memorandum-on-the-assembly-and…> in response to the call for input on the Assembly and Demonstrations Bill, 2024. We urge Parliament to adopt our recommendations to ensure the Assembly and Demonstrations Bill upholds the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression in Kenya. -- *Kind Regards,* *David Indeje* *@**KICTANet* <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/> * Communications *_____________________________________ +254 (0) 711 385 945 | +254 (0) 734 024 856 KICTANet portals Connect With Us <https://linktr.ee/Kictanet> ______________________________________

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Happening Now: East Africa Internet Governance Forum; 11 - 12 Sept 2024
by Keith Andere 11 Sep '24

11 Sep '24

dear Listers, The 11th edition of the East Africa IGF is happening now in Kampala Uganda. You can follow the conversation virtually via the link *HERE <https://tinyurl.com/48ujdnnw>* -- *Kind Regards,* *Keith ANDERE* Internet 4 Development *"The internet could be a very positive step towards education, organisation and participation in a meaningful society." ~ Noam Chomsky*

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