the Platform Transparency and Accountability Act

Meta, TikTok and YouTube may finally have to start sharing data with researchers

A Senate hearing this week and a new law in Europe show how “transparency” advocates are winning

the Platform Transparency and Accountability Act, was introduced in December by (an ever-so-slightly) bipartisan group of senators.

“YouTube, TikTok, Telegram, and Snapchat represent some of the largest and most influential platforms in the United States, and they provide almost no functional transparency into their systems. And as a result, they avoid nearly all of the scrutiny and criticism that comes with it.”

When we do hear about what happens inside a tech company, it’s often because a Frances Haugen-type employee decides to leak it.

Cruz expressed great confusion about why he got relatively few new Twitter followers in the days before Elon Musk said he was going to buy it, but then got many more after the acquisition was announced.

The actual explanation is that Musk has lots of conservative fans, they flocked back to the platform when they heard he was buying it, and from there Twitter’s recommendation algorithms kicked into gear.

As usual, though, Europe is much further ahead of us. The Digital Services Act, which regulators reached an agreement on in April, includes provisions that would require big platforms to share data with qualified researchers. The law is expected to go into effect by next year. And so even if Congress dithers after today, transparency is coming to platforms one way or another. Here’s hoping it can begin to answer some very important questions.

5 Comments on the Platform Transparency and Accountability Act

  1. johnson
    September 25, 2023 at 3:43 pm (1 year ago)

    I wished to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your superb writing. It’s actually amazing how well you can attract and engage readers.Continue your fantastic effort! Keep on sharing. I invite you to visit my website.
    es nueva jersey un estado de divorcio sin culpa

    Reply
  2. Steve Williams
    October 19, 2023 at 2:34 pm (1 year ago)

    Digital services encompass a broad range of online and technology-driven offerings that have transformed the way we interact, conduct business, and access information. These services include everything from e-commerce platforms, social media networks, and cloud computing to online education, streaming entertainment, and telemedicine. They have revolutionized communication, enabling global connectivity and fostering the exchange of data, goods, and services. Abogado DUI VA

    Reply
  3. John Stephen
    March 21, 2024 at 3:24 pm (9 months ago)

    Digital services extend to entertainment and media streaming platforms, offering on-demand access to movies, music, television shows, and other digital content, transforming the way people consume entertainment. Overall, digital services continue to shape and redefine various aspects of modern life, offering innovative solutions and opportunities for individuals, businesses, and communities to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. Abogado conducción imprudente carroll condado VA

    Reply

Leave a Reply