Issues

How Do You Solve a Problem Like Misinformation?

Policymakers and the public struggle to navigate misinformation about topics like climate change, COVID, and politics. Disinformation campaigns and ideological convictions are harder to fight than ordinary mistaken beliefs.

The COVID-19 Pandemic and the Technology Trust Gap

Pandemic responses were hindered by lack of public trust in information technology. The public was reluctant to use contact tracing apps because of inadequate privacy protection.

Digital Dystopia

Autocratic states could use social credit scoring systems to discourage dissent. When social ties are strong, citizens are more likely to question a state’s social credit score.

It’s Time to Update Section 230

The 1996 Communications Decency Act (CDA) makes online platforms immune from liability for harmful content posted by third parties. Platforms should enjoy immunity only if the platform takes reasonable steps to prevent harm.

Panopticon Reborn: Social Credit as Regulation for the Algorithmic Age

Western scholars view China’s Social Credit System (SCS) as a repressive regime. However, liberal governments could adopt social credit systems to improve protection for rights and regulate data.

The Diffusion of Disruptive Technologies

A few urban areas generate most disruptive technologies such as cloud computing. Opportunities associated with these technologies spread slowly across regions, firms, industries, and occupations.

Harming Competition and Consumers under the Guise of Protecting Privacy: An Analysis of Apple’s iOS 14 Policy Updates

Apple’s iOS 14 update claims to protect privacy by requiring consumers to opt in to allow data sharing by third-party apps. But this unfairly advantages Apple’s own products.

Cybersecurity Hiring in Response to Data Breaches

Data on firm-level hiring shows that firms increase hiring of cybersecurity workers following data breaches, particularly when the press covers the breach.

Shining a Light on Dark Patterns

Some user interfaces include “dark patterns” that exploit cognitive bias to manipulate users. Two experiments show that subtle dark patterns are more dangerous, because consumers are less likely to reject them.

Digital Addiction

A study of smartphone use shows that consumers’ excessive use of smartphones and social media may result from digital addiction. Self-control tools reduce usage and improve well-being.