The content regulator is combining human monitors, automated tools and international networks as it strengthens its online enforcement capabilities. (Image source: iStock) The Film and Publication Board (FPB) is planning to incorporate generative artificial intelligence (AI) into its regulatory processes, as it seeks to improve the monitoring, analysis and classification of the growing volume of…
A mysterious object filmed hovering over Tehran has sparked online speculation, with theories ranging from a children’s kite to advanced military surveillance equipment, while Iranian authorities have not identified it. Published On 21 Sep 202621 Sep 2026 Share Mystery object spotted hovering over Tehran on social media share-nodes Share googleAdd Al Jazeera on Googleinfo
The EU has announced plans to restrict social media access for under-15s across its member states, in a bid to increase wellbeing and tackle online safety. Under the plans, there would be a gradual approach to children using social media which would include banning under 13s from accessing platforms. Those aged 13 to 15 would…
Nigeria’s social media growth industry has spent the past few years building genuine technical infrastructure and market trust at home. A newer, less discussed pattern is now emerging alongside it, several Nigerian-built platforms are beginning to serve customers well beyond Nigeria’s own borders, extending into Ghana and Kenya as real, distinct markets rather than incidental…
Most citizens express tolerance for ethnic, religious, and national differences but want to limit immigration. Key findings Across 38 African countries, interpersonal trust declines sharply as social distance increases. On average, 81% of Africans say they trust relatives “somewhat” or “a lot,” vs. 58% who trust their neighbours and around half who trust people of…
SASMA 2026 puts SA’s creator economy under the spotlight, with organisers calling for greater investment, policy support and protection. (Image source: iStock) South Africa’s social media creator economy came under the spotlight as the nominees for the 2026 Openserve South African Social Media Awards (SASMA) were shortlisted over the weekend. The industry is positioned as…
Researchers identify AI monitoring, platform regulation, demand reduction and community coordination as key weapons against online wildlife trafficking. (Image created via Gemini) Social media platforms − including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube − are fuelling a rapidly-expanding illegal wildlife trade that is becoming increasingly difficult to detect and police. A review conducted by a team…
Victor Mokoena was sentenced to life imprisonment on each of the four rape counts. (Image source: iStock) In a case reminiscent of the Thabo Bester Facebook rapist saga, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has welcomed the sentencing of 26-year-old Victor Mokoena to four terms of life imprisonment. This, after the Gauteng Division of the High…
A folder of social media applications, including TikTok, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), Snapchat, YouTube, Facebook, Threads, Discord, and Messenger. Nurphoto | Nurphoto | Getty Images Millennials may feel a pang of nostalgia at the news of Myspace’s planned revival, but analysts caution that the once-dominant social media platform faces long odds in an overcrowded market…
Social media is transforming the financial scam landscape in South Africa. (Image created via ChatGPT) South Africans are increasingly falling victim to investment scams promoted through social media and online platforms, prompting the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) to intensify enforcement against digitally-enabled financial misconduct. The warning comes following the release of the FSCA’s latest…
