News - For Consumers

Brussels is investigating whether to impose new obligations on cloud services from Amazon, Google, and Microsoft under the Digital Markets Act. This action aims to address potential anti-competitive practices within the cloud market.

Brussels' transparency database for online services, part of the Digital Services Act (DSA), faces criticism for failing to meet its goals. A recent study reveals shortcomings in the database, designed to increase public understanding of online content moderation.

EU member states agreed on new rules to accelerate GDPR enforcement and cross-border data protection investigations. This aims to streamline cooperation among national data protection authorities, improving data privacy.

Brussels approved the EU-Singapore Digital Trade Agreement, despite warnings of setbacks to digital rights and oversight. The agreement weakens the Union's ability to protect privacy and data, as deregulation pressures rise across Europe.

Yann LeCun, a leading AI figure, believes current generative AI models are a dead end, diverging from industry focus. LeCun, previously at Meta, is reportedly preparing to launch his own startup, challenging the data-intensive AI approach.

Telefónica plans a significant restructuring, announcing a layoff affecting 6,000-7,000 employees in Spain. The reduction, driven by infrastructure investments and changing market dynamics, represents a 70% workforce decrease since 1997.

Dutch research reveals Snapchat employs deceptive notifications, violating the Digital Services Act's ban on manipulative design. The findings will inform potential enforcement actions, as platforms increasingly prioritize grabbing user attention.

Berlin hosts a summit on European digital sovereignty, bringing together 900 experts to discuss technological independence. The German and French governments lead the initiative, aiming for a broader, global approach to code and digital standards.

Revolut partners with Booking. com to enhance the payment experience for travelers....

Lise, a new blockchain-based stock exchange, launches in France to accelerate tokenized markets for French SMEs. The exchange, open 24/7, will allow companies to raise funds through tokenized shares starting in 2026.

Amazon is cracking down on the misuse of its Fire TV Stick devices to access illegal sports streams, taking action against IPTV services. The company is implementing mechanisms to block these services, aiming to protect its platform from copyright infringement.

Spanish businesses must implement Verifactu, a new digital invoicing system by January 1, 2026, to combat fraud. Freelancers using simple invoices created with programs like Word or Excel are exempt from the requirement.

WhatsApp launches interoperability in Europe, allowing users to send and receive messages from other messaging apps. This move follows the EU's Digital Markets Act, forcing the platform to open up to third-party integrations.

WhatsApp is rolling out third-party chats in Europe, allowing users to connect with individuals on other messaging services. This move follows new rules requiring interoperability.

Brussels aims to curtail the dominance of e-commerce giants like Temu and Shein by ending tax exemptions on small packages. The EU plans to eliminate the exemption for packages under €150, potentially by 2026, which previously cost the EU €1....

Meta is set to launch third-party chat integration within WhatsApp across Europe, complying with the Digital Markets Act. Users will soon be able to message with apps like BirdyChat and Haiket, with end-to-end encryption maintained.

Germany will ban Chinese suppliers like Huawei from its future 6G networks, ensuring they have no place in the country’s telecom infrastructure. This decision aims to establish planning security for the next generation of mobile networks.

A think tank urges the German government to boost investment in open-source platforms as an alternative to Big Tech. The call for action aims to shift open networks, like the Fediverse, from niche status to mainstream adoption, promoting digital sovereignty.

Trade Republic launches its "Crypto Wallet," offering access to nearly 50 cryptocurrencies with regulated banking protection. The move expands digital asset access for over 10 million users across 18 countries.

Vodafone and Ibercaja were ordered to refund nearly €23,000 to a customer scammed via SIM swapping. The court ruled the companies were liable after fraudsters duplicated the victim's SIM and stole the money.