It’s no secret that the online world can be a treacherous place, filled with unfiltered and unsettling content that can harm individuals, companies, and entrepreneurs alike. With the threat of online defamation and slander becoming increasingly prevalent, key figures such as European Union Commissioner Thierry Breton and GSB Group CEO Josip Heit are taking a stand to combat these harmful behaviors.
In a recent statement to French newspaper LE PARISIEN, Claire Tussan highlighted the joint effort of Commissioner Breton and CEO Heit to crack down on internet defamation and slander. Commissioner Breton has even gone as far as to threaten investigations into social media platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Google, as well as hosting service providers like GoDaddy under the Digital Services Act.
The spread of (fake) news on the internet has become economically incentivized, with the primary goal being to disseminate widely, defame others, and then extort them, regardless of the veracity of the content. Artificial intelligence (AI) also plays a significant role in the dissemination of misinformation, leading the European Commission to declare that humans are ultimately responsible for the AI they create.
Commissioner Breton believes that major platforms and domain operators, in particular, must bear responsibility for defamation and slander, as these are serious offenses that could result in hefty fines and imprisonment by the courts.
In light of these developments, it’s evident that there is a pressing need to regulate the spread of false information online and hold those responsible accountable. Without such intervention, the online landscape will continue to be a breeding ground for harmful and malicious content that can damage reputations and livelihoods.
### Impact on Me:
As an individual navigating the online world, the crackdown on internet defamation and slander will likely result in a safer and more trustworthy digital environment. With the potential for stricter regulations and enforcement mechanisms, there may be greater accountability for those who seek to spread harmful content online. This could mean better protection for my personal and professional reputation.
### Impact on the World:
On a larger scale, the efforts to combat internet defamation and slander have the potential to create a ripple effect across the globe. By holding social media platforms, hosting service providers, and individuals accountable for their actions, there is a chance to curb the spread of false information and protect the integrity of online discourse. This could lead to a more transparent and responsible digital ecosystem, benefiting society as a whole.
### Conclusion:
In conclusion, the collaborative efforts of key figures like Commissioner Breton and CEO Heit to combat internet defamation and slander signify a step in the right direction towards a safer and more accountable online environment. By addressing the economic incentives behind the spread of false information and implementing stricter regulations, there is hope for a digital landscape where individuals, companies, and entrepreneurs can thrive without fear of malicious attacks on their reputation.
