Open Rights Group

https://social.openrightsgroup.org/@openrightsgroup

We fight for digital rights (UK). Join us.

#privacy #freespeech #surveillance #censorship #dataprotection

Website: https://www.openrightsgroup.org/
Newsletter: https://action.openrightsgroup.org/sign-up-for-org-email-updates
Membership: https://www.openrightsgroup.org/join/

Public Key

npub1p2phu7kdl540vs6a89du6agkce6p8xaxtf65g9r0w7ful9vlncls83hjzg

NIP-05 Address

[email protected]

Profile Code

nprofile1qqsq4qm70txl62hkgdwnjk7dw5tvvaqnnwn95a2yz3hh0y70jk0eu0cprpmhxue69uhhyetvv9ujumt0d4hhxarj9ecxjmntqyqqrtcj35

Publishing to

relay.momostr.pink

Author Public Key

npub1p2phu7kdl540vs6a89du6agkce6p8xaxtf65g9r0w7ful9vlncls83hjzg

Show more details

Last Notes

2026-06-10 07:56:56 UTC

Image scanning for nudes 🤝 digital ID checks
This will affect everyone. All adults will have to hand over their ID to turn off the blocks on their phone.
But the scanning software will hang around. Something that could end up being used to censor much more.
We can't allow this trojan horse tech.
ORG's @npub1cqh…8tnn spoke to TalkTV about the UK government's plans.
https://peertube.openrightsgroup.org/w/6dYE596iFv5viV5QHemnR8
#censorship #ageverification #digitalID #privacy #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-06-09 09:15:07 UTC

The government's aim to block nude images would take away control over our devices.
ORG's James Baker explains that this is about mandating for all of us as adults to go through ID checks simply to unlock the actual use of our phone.
Despite there existing ways for parents to protect kids already.
https://peertube.openrightsgroup.org/w/2xsCd8sjXZQYgy17cu8phs
#privacy #starmer #ukpolitcs #ukpol #ageverification

2026-06-02 10:50:18 UTC

The UK Home Office is automating the hostile environment.
A legal opinion for ORG shows that the use of AI in asylum decision-making is likely to be unlawful.
Join policymakers, lawyers and ORG's @npub1lxx…6r6y to find out more.
🗓️ Wed 17 June
🕡 6.30-8pm BST
📍Westminister, UK
Register now ⬇️
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-use-of-ai-in-the-uk-asylum-system-tickets-1990233498971
#ai #asylum #hostileenvironment #migrants #homeoffice #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-30 07:40:02 UTC

Having Big Tech in the hen house is a major risk.
It means the UK is exposed to the US using powers compel tech companies to discontinue services or conduct surveillance.
That's why cross-party MPs have called for the secrecy around these risks to be lifted and added to the National Risk Register.
https://www.digit.fyi/mps-demand-action-over-uk-reliance-on-foreign-tech/
#DigitalSovereignty #bigtech #tech #nationalsecurity #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-29 12:30:16 UTC

ORG calls on the UK Information Commissioner's Office "to begin a formal investigation into data protection breaches and accessibility issues with the [eVisa] scheme."
“Migrants are being failed by the Home Office, which didn’t properly assess the risks of a digital-only roll-out."
🗣️ ORG's @npub1lxx…6r6y.
Read more ⬇️
https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366642365/UK-data-watchdog-accused-of-dragging-feet-on-eVisa-investigation
#eVisa #ico #homeoffice #dataprotection #migrants #immigration #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-29 10:43:28 UTC

- reply

Palantir’s Peter Thiel is a major investor in Persona – the age verification provider used by major platforms including Reddit and Discord.
https://www.openrightsgroup.org/press-releases/roblox-reddit-and-discord-users-compelled-to-use-biometric-id-system-backed-by-palantir-co-founder-peter-thiel/

2026-04-29 08:15:40 UTC

Digital checkpoints will crop up all over the Internet after UK MPs backed new powers to expand age verification.
The only way to block under-16s is to run checks on everybody.
That's millions more people having to hand over personal data to unregulated providers just to access everyday services.
Watch now ⬇️
#ageverification #digitalid #socialmedia #socialmediaban #freedomofexpression #childrensbill #privacy #ukpoltics
https://files.social.openrightsgroup.org/system/media_attachments/files/116/486/996/394/152/643/original/81dcc0ab33c7073e.mp4

2026-04-28 13:25:17 UTC

- reply

The problem of online harms lies with the underlying business models of social media platforms.
Digital ID age checks do nothing to change that.
We need to disrupt the advertising-driven business models built on surveillance, profiling and maximising engagement.
Sign our petition #BreakBigTech ⬇️
https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/break-big-tech
#ageverification #digitalid #socialmedia #socialmediaban #freedomofexpression #childrensbill #privacy #ukpoltics #ukpol

2026-04-28 13:25:16 UTC

Papers, please!
Digital ID age checks have taken another lunge forward. UK MPs have agreed to new powers to expand age verification across online platforms.
More and more everyday web services will be locked behind digital checkpoints, despite the serious privacy and security risks of this system.
Read more ⬇️
https://www.openrightsgroup.org/press-releases/papers-please-mps-back-mass-online-digital-id-checkpoints/
#ageverification #digitalid #socialmedia #socialmediaban #freedomofexpression #childrensbill #privacy #ukpoltics #ukpol

2026-04-28 13:25:16 UTC

- reply

The UK Parliament continues to pursue an approach to online safety that doesn't work.
The Australian under-16 social media ban has failed to make any difference and people have sought ways around it.
Digital ID age checks come at the cost of everyone's privacy and free expression. The math ain't mathing.
https://uk.news.yahoo.com/most-australian-teens-admit-social-111400429.html
#ageverification #digitalid #socialmedia #socialmediaban #freedomofexpression #childrensbill #privacy #ukpoltics #ukpol

2026-04-28 13:25:16 UTC

- reply

“In less than a year, we’ve gone from proposals to check ID for porn to the prospect of checking ID to access social media or unlock everyday features such as livestreams or feeds.
These online ID systems put both children and adults’ sensitive data at risk.”
🗣️ @npub1cqh…8tnn for ORG.
#ageverification #digitalid #socialmedia #socialmediaban #freedomofexpression #childrensbill #privacy #ukpoltics #ukpol

2026-04-27 12:15:09 UTC

- reply

AI is not neutral. It can discriminate and make mistakes.
It shouldn't be used to change information that informs life-changing asylum assessments. Without adequate safeguards, there's a risk that unlawful or unfair decisions may result.
Ask your MP (UK) to stand against the use of AI tools in asylum ⬇️
https://action.openrightsgroup.org/ban-ai-tools-asylum-decision-making
#AI #asylum #immigration #homeoffice #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-27 12:15:09 UTC

- reply

At a minimum, the use of AI tools must have:
✅️ Clear and published safeguards
✅️ Comply with government AI playbook
✅️ Defined accountability structures
✅️ Meaningful human oversight
✅️ Full transparency on how these systems are used
Without this, claims of responsible AI use remain unsubstantiated.
#AI #asylum #immigration #homeoffice #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-27 12:15:09 UTC

- reply

The key issues with the use of AI tools in the UK asylum system are:
🔴 No published Data Protection Impact Assessments.
🔴 No procedures governing the use of AI tools.
🔴 Being rolled-out before transparency.
🔴 Reliance on post-hoc oversight.
🔴 References to “human in the loop” without clarity over what power human decision-makers actually retain.
#AI #asylum #immigration #homeoffice #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-27 12:15:08 UTC

The UK Home Office has responded to questions raised by Bell Ribeiro-Addy MP on its use of AI tools in the asylum decision-making process, informed by ORG's work.
The answers raise serious concerns. These systems are being rolled out without meaningful transparency or governance.
Read more ⬇️
https://www.publictechnology.net/2026/04/15/society-and-welfare/second-ai-system-deployed-for-asylum-caseworkers-to-be-deployed-this-month-as-ministers-vow-decision-makers-cannot-use-the-tool-by-itself-to-decide-a-claim/
#AI #asylum #immigration #homeoffice #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-27 10:43:46 UTC

“For too long, the UK has been content to be a digital colony of Silicon Valley.
We are ceding both economic value and strategic autonomy because we lack a coherent plan to stand on our own two feet.”
🗣️ Victoria Collins MP on the cross-party warning over the UK's dependence on US tech.
They call for the risks to be disclosed and recognised in the National Risk Register.
Read more ⬇️
https://www.politico.eu/article/uk-british-lawmakers-demand-transparency-over-us-tech-dependence/
#DigitalSovereignty #opensource #tech #bigtech #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-27 10:43:46 UTC

- reply

With geopolitics in dire straits, we need digital sovereignty.
This means protecting the communication, banking, energy, travel and healthcare systems that we all rely on.
It involves diversifying the businesses who provide systems and ensuring that they meet open standards.
Sign our petition ⬇️
https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/stop-trump-s-kill-switch-secure-our-digital-sovereignty
#DigitalSovereignty #opensource #tech #bigtech #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-24 12:59:39 UTC

- reply

Get Trump out of our politics.
The UK’s over reliance on US tech companies to deliver our digital systems gives him a foothold to exert power.
It opens the way for service withdrawal and provides leverage to influence domestic polices.
Or we can choose Digital Sovereignty.
Sign our petition ⬇️
https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/stop-trump-s-kill-switch-secure-our-digital-sovereignty
#digitalsovereignty #trump #opensource #tech #bigtech #ukpolitics #ukpol #unplugtrump

2026-04-24 12:58:12 UTC

The UK isn’t a vassal state of America.
Yet Trump wants to punish us over a digital services tax.
This can be resolved by ditching US Big Tech from our digital infrastructure.
We should invest in open source to promote economic growth through greater innovation and a more competitive tech sector.
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/apr/24/trump-tariff-uk-digital-services-tax-warning
#digitalsovereignty #trump #digitalservices #tech #bigtech #opensource #ukpolitics #ukpol #tarrif

2026-04-24 08:15:03 UTC

Announcing ORG's new patron, Cory Doctorow 🎉
Author, activist, journalist and co-founder of Open Rights Group, @npub1fdr…lvhs is joining us to fight for digital rights.
To celebrate, we're giving away a signed copy of Enshittification!
Enter by 31 May to be in with your chance to win ⬇️
https://action.openrightsgroup.org/win-copy-enshittification-signed-cory-doctorow-0
#digitalrights #enshittification #corydoctorow #competition

2026-04-23 11:50:22 UTC

- reply

ORG calls for a Digital Sovereignty strategy to protect the UK’s independence and grow its economy.
The goal is to invest in Open Source tech that strengthens control over our digital infrastructure.
To do this, we must end the secrecy around our dependency on foreign tech firms.
Read more ⬇️
https://www.openrightsgroup.org/publications/tech-giants-and-giant-slayers-the-case-for-digital-sovereignty-and-the-digital-commons/
#DigitalSovereignty #opensource #nationalsecurity #bigtech #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-23 11:50:21 UTC

- reply

The UK is over-reliant on foreign tech companies to run our systems.
The risk of interference from outside powers was recognised in debates about Huawei.
The same attention hasn't been given to US firms in the new age of geo-political instability.
We can't be left in the dark about these risks.
#DigitalSovereignty #opensource #nationalsecurity #bigtech #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-23 11:50:21 UTC

- reply

“It is known within government that our dependence on foreign companies is a national security risk but the details are being kept from the public. We have a right to know what the consequences of years of pandering to Big Tech mean for the UK.
The Government must be transparent about the risks and show how it is taking steps to make the UK’s more resilient to foreign interference.”
🗣️ ORG's @npub1xqu…6z6j
#DigitalSovereignty #opensource #bigtech #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-23 11:50:21 UTC

The UK government needs to come clean about our dependency on foreign tech companies for our critical infrastructure.
Cross-party MPs have called for the publication of secret documents that detail the risks to UK national security and for the National Risk Register to be updated.
Find out more ⬇️
https://www.openrightsgroup.org/press-releases/mps-call-for-publication-of-secret-documents-that-outline-chronic-risks-from-uks-dependence-on-big-tech/
#DigitalSovereignty #opensource #nationalsecurity #bigtech #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-23 08:03:32 UTC

Did Palantir say the quiet bit out loud?
Maybe not when clue's in the name that they're the bad guys trying to spy on everyone.
But still, erm, bold to set out their sinister megalomania in a 22-point manifesto.
They make the case for ditching Big Tech in favour of UK Digital Sovereignty for us tbh.
https://cybernews.com/editorial/palantir-manifesto-britain-tech-dependence/
#palantir #DigitalSovereignty #opensource #bigtech #tech #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-22 14:19:46 UTC

The problem with our dependency on Big Tech is evident in Palantir's NHS contract.
Signing up to a 'subscription service' for one company's exclusive software leaves us with nothing when we end the contract.
With open source, we don't have to start again with a new platform when changing vendors.
https://www.theregister.com/2026/04/20/palantir_nhs_break_clause/
#BigTech #palantir #nhs #DigitalSovereignty #opensource #UnplugBigTech #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-22 10:22:38 UTC

Check out the 'Resisting Big Tech Empires' conference taking place this Saturday from Global Justice Now.
Featuring Cory Doctorow and a slate of exciting speakers, it comes as concerns mount about the influence of Big Tech in the State and our private lives.
🗓️ Sat 25 April, 11am–6pm BST
📍 London South Bank University, UK
🎟️ Free
https://www.globaljustice.org.uk/event/resisting-big-tech-empires/
#BigTech #GlobalJusticeNow #CoryDoctorow

2026-04-21 07:40:01 UTC

The UK is in a toxic relationship.
Hooking up our digital infrastructure to the proprietary systems of a few tech companies based abroad has left us over-charged and vulnerable to external threats.
ORG calls on the government to put in place a UK Digital Sovereignty strategy based on open source.
Read more ⬇️
https://www.computing.co.uk/news/2026/government/mps-campaigners-warn-uk-dependence-on-us-tech-firms-is-becoming-a-national-security-risk?itc=refresh
#DigitalSovereignty #opensource #bigtech #tech #ukpolitics #ukpol #unplugbigtech

2026-04-20 07:40:01 UTC

More and more governments are waking up to the need for Digital Sovereignty.
Being on the hook to US tech companies is a critical weakness in the UK's digital infrastructure. We get locked-in and dependent on products that can be used as political leverage.
The UK must urgently follow the EU's lead.
https://www.theregister.com/2026/04/13/digital_sovereignty/
#DigitalSovereignty #opensource #eu #linux #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-20 07:40:01 UTC

- reply

Public money should be spent on public code that benefits us all.
Our report shows the benefits of shifting from a one way dependence on US tech giants to shared technology.
The UK needs a Digital Sovereignty strategy based on Open Source systems, open standards and open hardware.
Read the report ⬇️
https://www.openrightsgroup.org/publications/tech-giants-and-giant-slayers-the-case-for-digital-sovereignty-and-the-digital-commons/
#DigitalSovereignty #opensource #eu #linux #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-19 16:34:01 UTC

The UK's love affair with Big Tech is toxic.
A small number of companies have captured the market for the UK’s critical infrastructure from the NHS to defence.
From this position, they’ve influenced policies that entrench the UK’s dependency.
It's time to course correct with Digital Sovereignty.
Read more ⬇️
https://www.theregister.com/2026/04/15/uk_big_tech_dependence/
#DigitalSovereignty #bigtech #tech #opensource #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-18 16:34:01 UTC

"An urgent national security issue”
Locking ourselves into exclusive products of US tech companies exposes us to foreign interference in our digital infrastructure.
Sanctions, service withdrawal and espionage are all built-in features.
We need Digital Sovereignty with open source.
Read more ⬇️
https://www.digit.fyi/risky-business-open-rights-group-slams-uk-overreliance-on-us-big-tech/
#DigitalSovereignty #opensource #bigtech #tech #nationalsecurity #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-17 15:15:09 UTC

Coming up on Monday, join us in Brighton for our meet-up!
We'll be talking about how AI is being used in the asylum system. Following our revelation that its use could be unlawful, find out what YOU can do about it.
🗓️ Monday 20 April
🕡️ 6:30-10:00pm
📍 Community Base, BN1 3XG, UK
Register now ⬇️
https://www.openrightsgroup.org/events/org-brighton-meet-up/
#meetup #digitalrights #migrants #asylum #brighton

2026-04-16 13:45:05 UTC

- reply

ORG's report shows our over-reliance on foreign companies has become an urgent issue of national security.
It also leads to vendor lock-in, inflated costs for government and business and the extraction of value from the UK economy. This can change.
Tell the government we need Digital Sovereignty ⬇️
https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/stop-trump-s-kill-switch-secure-our-digital-sovereignty
#DigitalSovereignty #opensource #bigtech #unplugbigtech #tech #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-16 13:45:05 UTC

UK digital infrastructure is on shaky ground.
Our dependency on Big Tech must end. We're being ripped off and putting our critical systems at risk of foreign interference.
ORG's @npub1xqu…6z6j explains why we need Digital Sovereignty with open source tech.
Watch now ➡️ https://peertube.openrightsgroup.org/w/8x4qi2BaEpGDLDvfwf8wj6
#DigitalSovereignty #opensource #bigtech #unplugbigtech #tech #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-16 12:19:50 UTC

- reply

The UK government is stuck treating the symptoms, not the root cause of online harms.
Nothing changes until we break the business model that drives hate and extremism; the harvesting of our data to maximise engagement and fuel advertising.
It's time to #BreakBigTech.
Sign and share our petition ⬇️
https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/break-big-tech
#bigtech #socialmedia #starmer #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-16 12:19:50 UTC

Re: Agenda for meeting with social media bosses.
✅️ Uphold data protection to tackle targeted advertising.
✅️ Make algorithms transparent and give users control over them.
✅️ Introduce social media switching rights like banking and mobile phones, so we can change platforms without losing networks.
https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2026/apr/16/keir-starmer-social-media-firms-no-10-meeting
#BreakBigTech #bigtech #socialmedia #starmer #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-16 08:15:07 UTC

“Open Rights Group is doing incredibly important work to call out the glaring risks we are exposed to by our over-reliance on tech giants.
As global events continue to cause instability, we must build much more resilience to protect our critical digital infrastructure from the potential threat of sanctions and service withdrawal."
@npub1kp3…egzn on ORG's report, calling for UK #DigitalSovereignty and investment in #opensource tech to end our over-reliance on US tech giants.
#ukpolitics #ukpol
https://files.social.openrightsgroup.org/system/media_attachments/files/116/413/386/284/223/830/original/90936206b9144ce5.png

2026-04-16 08:15:07 UTC

- reply

"By investing in open source software and diversity of talent, pioneering British businesses could deliver accessible, user-friendly services designed with the people who use them in mind. It is an open-goal we must not miss.”
🗣️ @npub1kp3…egzn
Support the Early Day Motion tabled by Siân Berry for the government to devise a UK Digital Sovereignty strategy.
Write to your MP (UK) ⬇️
https://action.openrightsgroup.org/protect-britain%E2%80%99s-digital-backbone-%E2%80%94-ask-your-mp-act
#DigitalSovereignty #opensource #tech #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-15 11:15:05 UTC

"For years, a handful of Big Tech companies have used their power to gain control of the UK’s digital infrastructure, locking the government into wasteful contracts and shaping tech policy in their favour."
🗣️ ORG's @npub1xqu…6z6j on our new report calling for UK Digital Sovereignty.
Find out more ⬇️
https://www.itpro.com/infrastructure/uk-too-reliant-on-big-tech-needs-prioritise-digital-sovereignty-say-rights-organizers
#DigitalSovereignty #opensource #bigtech #tech #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-15 07:45:08 UTC

- reply

The dominance of Big Tech in social media is itself a risk to democracy.
Yet the government supports Big Tech monopolies with ad spending and content without publishing on the alternatives.
They complain about Big Tech’s failures, while only giving users the opportunity to engage through Big Tech.
#DigitalSovereignty #bigtech #tech #opensource #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-15 07:45:08 UTC

- reply

The way forward is having the leadership to promote alternatives to Big Tech and using shared, Open Source tech.
It isn't about 'Buy British'. Open Source allows multiple partners and governments to develop the tools they need.
That means no vendor lock-in that frees us from coersion and control.
#DigitalSovereignty #bigtech #tech #opensource #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-15 07:45:08 UTC

- reply

A growing number of MPs that have signed the Early Day Motion calling for a Digital Sovereignty strategy and spoken out in debates.
It'll take political courage to end our digital dependency on powerful tech companies. But the risks of not acting are greater.
Sign and share our petition ⬇️
https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/stop-trump-s-kill-switch-secure-our-digital-sovereignty
#DigitalSovereignty #bigtech #tech #opensource #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-15 07:45:07 UTC

The UK government has blanked the risks of US tech dependency for too long.
Our digital infrastructure is a strategic asset.
But that understanding is absent in how we hand out public sector contracts and allow UK tech sector sell-offs to foreign companies.
We must shift the dial.
Read more ⬇️
https://www.openrightsgroup.org/blog/the-case-for-digital-sovereignty-and-the-digital-commons/
#DigitalSovereignty #bigtech #tech #opensource #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-15 07:45:07 UTC

- reply

Making ourselves dependent on Big Tech has been a fatal mistake.
The Post Office scandal didn't come from nowhere. Outsourcing our systems to the exclusive product of a single provider means we're locked-in to using it and them.
This leads to over-charging that costs in failure and extracts value.
#DigitalSovereignty #bigtech #tech #opensource #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-15 07:45:07 UTC

- reply

Digital dependence poses serious democratic risks.
They include lobbying, interference in trade agreements, deregulation and producing e-waste.
Governments become spellbound by techno-solutionism as vendors promote their way of doing things.
This only leads to greater economic extraction.
#DigitalSovereignty #bigtech #tech #opensource #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-14 16:30:14 UTC

NHS workers are being gagged from criticising the Palantir contract 🤐
We can't duck the hard truths that embedding US Big Tech in UK public services carries risks of outside political interference and waste from vendor lock-in.
The alternative is here: Digital Sovereignty with open source tech.
https://novaramedia.com/2026/04/14/nhs-staff-told-stop-criticising-palantir-or-lose-your-job/
#DigitalSovereignty #opensource #palantir #nhs #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-14 16:30:14 UTC

- reply

Digital Sovereignty is the ability to have control over our digital infrastructure, data and technology.
That's means giving companies like Palantir the boot and investing in open source systems.
It'll make us more competitive and innovative, reduce costs and enhance security.
Read more ⬇️
https://www.openrightsgroup.org/press-releases/new-report-uk-needs-digital-sovereignty-strategy-to-address-threats-from-reliance-on-big-tech/
#DigitalSovereignty #opensource #palantir #nhs #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-14 12:20:02 UTC

- reply

Running key systems on products from companies like Palantir means foreign governments can meddle with our security.
We're overexposed to US sanctions and powers that can compel tech companies to hand over data or grant access to UK systems.
There's another way.
Demand UK Digital Sovereignty ⬇️
https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/stop-trump-s-kill-switch-secure-our-digital-sovereignty
#DigitalSovereignty #nationalsecurity #bigtech #opensource #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-14 12:20:01 UTC

The UK's "over-reliance on foreign [tech] companies has become an urgent issue of national security as US foreign policy actions are creating geopolitical uncertainty.”
Our new report calls for the UK government to pursue Digital Sovereignty to protect its critical infrastructure.
🗣️ ORG's Exec Director @npub1xqu…6z6j
https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366641487/UK-reliance-on-US-big-tech-companies-is-national-security-risk-claims-report
#DigitalSovereignty #nationalsecurity #bigtech #opensource #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-14 08:27:04 UTC

- reply

Our communications, banking, energy, travel and healthcare systems shouldn't be the palm of Trump's hands or any foreign leader.
Open source solutions put the UK in charge of its own future, being able to switch providers without changing systems.
Sign our petition for UK #DigitalSovereignty ⬇️
#opensource #report #bigtech #unplugtrump #unplugbigtech #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-14 08:27:04 UTC

- reply

The UK must follow the lead of EU countries, including Germany, France, Netherlands and Denmark.
We must pursue strategic investments in open source technologies, so we aren't locked-in to the exclusive product of a single provider.
We can break the risky cycle of dependency and boost innovation.
#DigitalSovereignty #opensource #report #bigtech #unplugtrump #unplugbigtech #ukpolitics #ukpol #eu

2026-04-14 08:27:03 UTC

- reply

The UK's dependency on Big Tech is a vicious cycle.
In granting them contract after contract, they've amassed power to control markets and lobby government.
This has resulted in halting AI regulation, limiting data protection and blunting competition law.
It makes them stronger and us weaker.
#DigitalSovereignty #opensource #report #bigtech #unplugtrump #unplugbigtech #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-14 08:27:03 UTC

- reply

Digital Sovereignty means putting the levers of power in the hands of UK democratic institutions. Making us resilient, independent and secure.
And yet, the government continues along a path of reinforcing dependency on US tech giants, by handing contracts to controversial spyware company Palantir.
#DigitalSovereignty #opensource #report #bigtech #unplugtrump #unplugbigtech #ukpolitics #ukpol #palantir

2026-04-14 08:27:02 UTC

NEW: ORG's report sets out the need for Digital Sovereignty.
UK national security teeters on our over-reliance on a handful of foreign-owned tech firms, meaning the plug could be pulled on our digital infrastructure.
We need to pursue open source systems that are in our control.
Find out more ⬇️
https://www.openrightsgroup.org/press-releases/new-report-uk-needs-digital-sovereignty-strategy-to-address-threats-from-reliance-on-big-tech/
#DigitalSovereignty #opensource #report #bigtech #unplugtrump #unplugbigtech #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-14 08:27:02 UTC

- reply

The US has tech powers of sanction, which can be used to stop a company from supplying services.
Our digital infrastructure shouldn't be a bargaining chip, a pawn in a game of brinkmanship, or simply cut off by Trump.
That's the mess we're in by having so many US tech companies behind the wheel.
#DigitalSovereignty #opensource #report #bigtech #unplugtrump #unplugbigtech #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-14 08:27:02 UTC

- reply

The US could leverage power through its corporate dominance of the UK’s critical infrastructure.
After the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israel's Netanyahu, US sanctions led to Microsoft shutting down email, plus electronic and online banking facilities to ICC members.
#DigitalSovereignty #opensource #report #bigtech #unplugtrump #unplugbigtech #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-09 14:28:46 UTC

“A loaded gun”
Letting Minsters bypass Parliament with Henry VIII powers is never a good idea.
But the government did it anyway, by packing the new UK data protection Act with them.
That means a potential future Reform government could easily create a integrated database for use by a British ICE.
https://www.thenerve.news/p/reform-deportation-operation-restoring-justice-data-surveillance-palantir-uk-labour
#dataprotection #privacy #surveillance #gdpr #ice #reformuk #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-07 14:29:25 UTC

Trump wages wars and battles of his choosing.
Alliances have been made conditional along the way - do as the US says or face hostility.
With so many tech firms under his influence, our critical digital infrastructure could be destabilised in a fit of pique.
Back our call for UK digital sovereignty NOW ⬇️
https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/stop-trump-s-kill-switch-secure-our-digital-sovereignty
#digitalsovereignty #trump #palantir #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-03 08:28:46 UTC

The fight for digital rights has never been more vital.
So subscribe to ORG's newsletter today.
We'll keep you updated on everything that's going on in the UK. From campaign updates to events and how to get involved, we've got you covered.
Sign up now ⬇️
https://action.openrightsgroup.org/sign-up-for-org-email-updates
#DigitalRights #privacy #freedomofexpression #uk #dataprotection

2026-04-02 10:06:52 UTC

- reply

ORG's report shows that children make up the majority of Prevent referrals in the UK.
This is not a safeguarding service. It criminalises a generation as being suspect of future wrongdoing.
It's time to scrap Prevent and invest in the support services that young people need to flourish in life.
Read more ⬇️
https://www.openrightsgroup.org/press-releases/new-report-reveals-widespread-data-sharing-and-retention-of-prevent-referrals-including-childrens-data/
#Prevent #dataprotection #surveillance #mentalhealth #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-04-02 10:05:52 UTC

Young people needing mental health support in the UK mustn't be funnelled through Prevent.
A system designed for surveillance exposes people to widespread data sharing that can destroy opportunities.
With data potentially retained for 25 years after their 18th birthday, Prevent worsens the mental health crisis.
https://www.ft.com/content/72fc1e1b-8f0f-41b0-adaf-cb9ed197164b?syn-25a6b1a6=1
#Prevent #dataprotection #surveillance #mentalhealth #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-31 09:15:05 UTC

"The State is being ripped off and hollowed out."
Listen to ORG's Exec Director @npub1xqu…6z6j discuss the need for UK digital sovereignty to break from our dependence on foreign-owned Big Tech and how to escape the enshittification of social media.
Check out the @npub1me6…lgcf podcast ⬇️
https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/podcasts/in-solidarity-podcast/ai-panopticon-surveillance-jim-killock-open-rights/
#digitalsovereignty #interoperability #enshittification #socialmedia #bigtech #digitalrights #fediverse

2026-03-30 14:22:02 UTC

- reply

With geopolitics in dire straits, we need digital sovereignty.
This means protecting the communication, banking, energy, travel and healthcare systems that we all rely on.
It involves diversifying the businesses who provide systems and ensuring that they meet open standards.
Sign our petition for UK Digital Sovereignty ⬇️
https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/stop-trump-s-kill-switch-secure-our-digital-sovereignty
#digitalsovereignty #opensource #interoperability #palantir #NHS #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-30 14:21:49 UTC

Triggering a break clause with Palantir's NHS contract shows we can ditch Big Tech.
But when they go, they take the systems with them. That's what you get by contracting suppliers who exclusively own the product.
The UK government must back interoperable open source software, so we can switch suppliers without changing systems.
https://www.ft.com/content/2d2b1af1-edea-4fd0-a081-3811e34bc52e?syn-25a6b1a6=1
#digitalsovereignty #opensource #interoperability #palantir #NHS #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-30 08:35:12 UTC

Coming up in April, we've got our Brighton meet-up!
ORG's @npub1lxx…6r6y will be on hand to talk about migrants' digital rights.
Whether you're new to ORG or a longtime supporter, everyone's welcome.
🗓️ Monday 20 April
🕡️ 6:30-10:00pm BST
📍 Community Base, BN1 3XG
Register now ⬇️
https://www.openrightsgroup.org/events/org-brighton-meet-up/
#digitalrights #brighton #uk #meetup #ORG

2026-03-26 15:24:02 UTC

- reply

Our report details how we can improve the online environment by empowering users.
Pursuing online safety in ways that preserve and even strengthen the dominance of Big Tech is a self-defeating mission.
We need to break these monopolies and push for competition through interoperability.
Read now ⬇️
https://www.openrightsgroup.org/publications/making-platforms-accountable-empowering-users-and-creating-safety/
#onlinesafety #BreakBigTech #bigtech #socialmedia #meta #google #adtech #interoperability #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-26 15:24:01 UTC

- reply

The UK Government should take note. Age ID checks for Internet access won't solve online harms.
It does nothing to tackle their structural causes: advertising-driven business models built on surveillance, profiling and maximising engagement.
All it does is threaten privacy. We must #BreakBigTech.
#onlinesafety #bigtech #socialmedia #meta #google #ageverification #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-26 15:24:01 UTC

Social media giants have pushed engagement-driven designs to keep us on their platforms, so they can harvest our data for advertising revenues.
The landmark verdict against Meta and Google is a crucial step in acknowledging that Big Tech's harmful business models are creating toxic online spaces.
Read more ⬇️
https://www.openrightsgroup.org/press-releases/after-the-la-court-verdict-the-uk-must-disrupt-surveillance-capitalism-business-models/
#onlinesafety #BreakBigTech #bigtech #socialmedia #meta #google

2026-03-26 15:24:01 UTC

- reply

ORG calls on the UK Government to:
✅️ Uphold data protection law to tackle targeted advertising that fuel the attention economy and feed online hate.
✅️ Compel social media companies to be transparent about algorithms and give users control over them.
✅️ Introduce social media switching rights similar to banking and mobile phones, so we can change platforms without losing networks.
#onlinesafety #BreakBigTech #bigtech #socialmedia #meta #google #adtech #interoperability #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-26 11:01:28 UTC

- reply

2026-03-26 11:01:28 UTC

An LA Court's ruling on Meta and Google exposes the real causes of online harms.
Engagement-driven design and data-fuelled advertising business models put people at risk.
Yet the UK government's approach to online safety has focussed on keeping kids out and locking adults in to toxic platforms.
https://www.theguardian.com/media/2026/mar/25/jury-verdict-us-first-social-media-addiction-trial-meta-youtube
#onlinesafety #meta #google #youtube #bigtech #socialmedia #ukpolitics #ukpol #BreakBigTech

2026-03-25 15:34:06 UTC

“We could be forced to hand over personal data as part of a digital ID age check to access parts of the Internet and anyone under 18 could be completely banned from other platforms – all at a ministers’ discretion."
“We urge parliamentarians to think twice about giving current and future ministers such vast, far-reaching and changeable powers” when the UK Children’s Bill returns to the Lords today.
https://www.openrightsgroup.org/press-releases/13-year-olds-could-be-compelled-to-use-unregulated-age-verification/
#ageverification #privacy #digitalid #childrensbill #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-24 15:37:55 UTC

TOMORROW 🔔
Come along to our London meet-up.
We’ll be on hand to chat about our latest projects and get to know each other.
🗓️ Wednesday 25 March
🕡️ 6:30–10pm GMT
📍 Newspeak House, E2 7DG, UK
Sign up now ⬇️
https://www.openrightsgroup.org/events/org-london-meet-up-3/
#digitalrights #meetup #social #london

2026-03-24 12:45:04 UTC

- reply

ORG calls on UK MPs to support Amendment (e) proposed by Liberty.
This would address some of the most pressing concerns about the proportionality of putting the Internet behind age-based ID checkpoints.
We must focus on the root causes of online harms instead of creating greater risks in power grabs.
#ageverification #privacy #freedomofexpression #internet #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-24 12:45:04 UTC

- reply

The UK government has refused to regulate the ever-growing age verification industry.
This is despite market leader Yoti being fined by the Spanish data protection authority for the way it handles personal data.
Expanding the reach of age gates further across the Internet threatens privacy.
#ageverification #privacy #freedomofexpression #internet #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-24 12:45:03 UTC

Far-reaching powers over Internet access are being rushed through.
Last minute amendments have been shoved into the UK Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill.
Ministers will be able to force anyone over 13 to use unsafe and unregulated age-ID services to access whatever content the government wants.
Find out more ⬇️
https://www.openrightsgroup.org/press-releases/13-year-olds-could-be-compelled-to-use-unregulated-age-verification/
#ageverification #privacy #freedomofexpression #internet #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-24 12:45:03 UTC

- reply

Powers unhindered by UK Parliamentary scrutiny threaten freedom of expression.
With no need to demonstrate harm to children, governments could do as they please.
A Reform government could force ID checks to access LGBTQ content as part of their manifesto commitment “to end trans ideology” in schools.
#ageverification #privacy #freedomofexpression #internet #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-23 13:16:22 UTC

The UK’s reliance on US Big Tech is a national security issue ⚠️
But the UK is giving the controversial spyware company Palantir more contracts and more access to our data.
We're increasingly vulnerable to companies that lock us in to proprietary systems, creating dependency not independence.
https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2026/mar/22/palantir-extends-reach-into-british-state-as-it-gets-access-to-sensitive-fca-data
#DigitalSovereignty #palantir #bigtech #security #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-23 13:16:22 UTC

- reply

Instead of handing government contracts to predatory Big Tech, the UK should ensure we have control of our digital infrastructure.
Even secure systems are fragile if a foreign company or power can pull the plug.
Sign our petition for a digital sovereignty strategy that priorities UK open source ⬇️
https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/stop-trump-s-kill-switch-secure-our-digital-sovereignty
#DigitalSovereignty #palantir #bigtech #security #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-22 12:09:01 UTC

Coming up on Wednesday, it's our London meet-up!
The ORG team will be there to update you on our campaigns on the Migrant Digital Rights Programme and our calls to reform the ICO.
🗓️ Wednesday 25 March
🕡️ 6:30–10pm GMT
📍 Newspeak House, E2 7DG, UK
Sign up now ⬇️
https://www.openrightsgroup.org/events/org-london-meet-up-3/
#ORG #meetup #digitalrights

2026-03-21 08:40:01 UTC

Reform UK's 'competition' clearly breaches the law.
"The ICO have a statutory duty to monitor and ensure compliance with UK data protection law. Instead of doing their job, the ICO are telling to the public to “go figure it out themselves.
The ICO refusal to fulfill their duty and carry out much needed oversight marks yet another institutional failure, which risks affecting the May elections.”
🗣️ @npub1um7…wyyk
https://www.openrightsgroup.org/press-releases/ico-must-investigate-reform-competition-for-data-protection-breaches/
#reform #dataprotection #gdpr #ukpol

2026-03-20 13:15:09 UTC

Predatory Big Tech is being brought into the UK economy on Big Tech's terms.
Adding Tony Blair Institute and Ellison Institute officials into government "who know how to do Big Tech’s bidding is just one more sign that the UK is being asset-stripped and locked into a future of permanent rent extraction by Big Tech."
🗣️ ORG Exec Director @npub1xqu…6z6j
https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/dark-money-investigations/dsit-civil-servant-revolving-door-between-government-and-tony-blair-institute/
#DigitalSovereignty #tech #techpolicy #tonyblair #bigtech #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-20 13:15:09 UTC

- reply

The UK government has collapsed competition regulation, shifted data protection to favour business needs over personal data and promised Big Tech all the help they need to establish themselves at every level of government.
There's an alternative – a strategy for digital sovereignty that prioritises UK open source.
Public money, public code.
Tell your MP to back a #DigitalSovereignty strategy ⬇️
https://action.openrightsgroup.org/protect-britain%E2%80%99s-digital-backbone-%E2%80%94-ask-your-mp-act
#opensource #tech #techpolicy #tonyblair #bigtech #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-20 08:40:01 UTC

How can the answer to protecting privacy be age verification?
The ICO (UK) seems to think so. Their fine against Reddit for relying on self-declaration is met with a call for intrusive biometric scans or ID uploads.
All this when privacy dangers are emerging within the industry.
Read our new blog ⬇️
https://www.openrightsgroup.org/blog/break-privacy-to-make-privacy-age-verification-isnt-the-answer/
#ico #reddit #dataprotection #digitalid #ageverification #privacy #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-19 15:12:33 UTC

- reply

VPNs help people to stay private and safe online.
The UK government clearly understands this in their use of the technology to the tune of £millions.
So they must pull back from attempts to age gate VPNs – a measure that will deter people from using a core cybersecurity tool.
Sign and share our petition ⬇️
https://action.openrightsgroup.org/tell-government-protect-vpn-use-uk
#vpn #cybersecurity #privacy #security #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-19 15:12:33 UTC

The UK government's use of VPNs "demonstrates how important these tools are for cybersecurity across the modern Internet."
Restricting them creates uncertainty that "could undermine the UK’s reputation as a stable and credible place for digital businesses and security innovation."
🗣️ ORG's @npub1cqh…8tnn
https://www.techradar.com/vpn/vpn-privacy-security/investigation-uk-spends-millions-on-vpns-as-government-weighs-ban-for-children
#vpn #cybersecurity #privacy #security #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-19 09:15:07 UTC

- reply

AI is not neutral. It can discriminate and make mistakes.
It shouldn't be used to change information that informs life-changing asylum assessments. Without adequate safeguards, there's a risk that unlawful or unfair decisions may result.
Ask your MP to ban the use of AI in the UK asylum system ⬇️
#asylum #migrants #homeoffice #ai #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-19 09:15:06 UTC

The use of AI in UK asylum decision-making is likely unlawful.
These tools rewrite interviews, choosing what to include and exclude.
Without knowing this, asylum applicants can't be sure accurate information is used to inform decisions.
ORG's @npub1lxx…6r6y explains the legal opinion.
Watch now ➡️ https://peertube.openrightsgroup.org/w/fhDQ1ezbb79jedsHPTqe1X
#asylum #migrants #homeoffice #ai #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-18 13:15:06 UTC

With the 'Nigel Cut My Bills' competition “Reform are asking the public to hand over sensitive data about their voting habits without being transparent about how it will be used."
This is a clear breach of transparency obligations under UK data protection law.
🗣️ @npub1um7…wyyk for ORG.
https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/mar/17/reform-uk-may-breach-data-laws-free-energy-bills-competition
#reformuk #dataprotection #gdpr #privacy #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-18 08:45:04 UTC

“Political opinions are among the most sensitive types of personal data, and voters must be able to engage in campaigns without feeling pressured to trade their privacy for the chance of material benefit.”
The ICO must investigate Reform UK exploiting data in this way.
🗣️ ORG’s @npub1um7…wyyk.
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/farage-reform-energy-bills-competition-investigation-b2940420.html#
#reformuk #dataprotection #gdpr #privacy #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-17 17:31:45 UTC

- reply

There's no specific privacy policy for Reform UK's 'competition', only their general one that lacks detail.
We can't know what they'll do with the data they collect.
This is a breach of transparency, and may indicate they're also unlawfully repurposing the data collected for other electoral purposes.
#reform #reformuk #farage #dataprotection #privacy #gdpr #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-17 17:31:45 UTC

- reply

How people have voted before and how they might in the future is special category data.
Reform UK gives no legal basis for asking this.
Free and fair elections depend on trust, transparency and genuine consent. Not competitions for material benefit that blur the line between campaigning and profiling.
#reform #reformuk #farage #dataprotection #privacy #gdpr #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-17 17:31:44 UTC

Reform UK's Cut My Bills 'competition' breaches transparency obligations under data protection law.
People are asked to hand over data about their voting preferences for a chance to get their bills paid. All with no explanation of how personal data will be used.
The ICO must investigate.
Read more ⬇️
https://www.openrightsgroup.org/press-releases/ico-must-investigate-reform-competition-for-data-protection-breaches/
#reform #reformuk #farage #dataprotection #privacy #gdpr #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-17 15:30:08 UTC

- reply

We need an immediate ban on the use of AI tools in the UK asylum process.
There are many ways to clear the Home Office’s backlog of asylum cases and raise standards – these tools are not the answer.
The UK government must not automate the hostile environment for migrants with AI.
Write to your MP ⬇️
https://action.openrightsgroup.org/ban-ai-tools-asylum-decision-making
#asylum #ai #migrants #homeoffice #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-17 15:30:08 UTC

We've published a new legal opinion, raising questions over the legality of the use of AI tools in the UK asylum system.
Applicants aren't being informed of their use by decision-makers, nor being given the opportunity to correct errors that might be made in AI generated summaries.
Find out more ⬇️
https://www.openrightsgroup.org/press-releases/home-office-use-of-ai-in-asylum-cases-likely-to-be-unlawful-legal-opinion-finds/
#asylum #ai #migrants #homeoffice #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-17 09:57:08 UTC

Trump threatens allies with retribution for not bending the knee.
UK digital infrastructure can be used as leverage or disrupted on his say so.
We need interoperable open-source systems, so we're not locked in to services owned and controlled by foreign tech firms.
Sign the petition for #DigitalSovereignty ⬇️
https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/stop-trump-s-kill-switch-secure-our-digital-sovereignty
#Trump #nato #starmer #ukpolitics #ukpol #petition #opensource

2026-03-16 13:09:20 UTC

- reply

“Technology can assist decision-making, but it cannot undermine the careful human judgment required in asylum cases.
Where AI tools are used without adequate safeguards, there is a real risk that unlawful or unfair decisions may result.
If AI tools are influencing asylum decisions, there must be full transparency about how those systems operate and how their outputs are used."
🗣️ Robin Allen KC and Dee Masters, Cloisters Chambers.
#asylum #ai #legal #migrants #homeoffice #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-16 13:09:19 UTC

The failure to inform asylum applicants of the use of AI in decision-making is likely UNLAWFUL.
A new legal opinion for ORG finds that the use of AI tools by the UK Home Office doesn't meet legal obligations nor standards in the AI Playbook.
We need full transparency to ensure lawful and fair decisions.
Read more ⬇️
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/ai-artificial-intelligence-asylum-claims-backlog-b2937111.html
#asylum #ai #legal #migrants #homeoffice #ukpolitics #ukpol

2026-03-16 13:09:19 UTC

- reply

AI tools create a new text of interviews and material such as country of origin information.
In the UK Home Office’s evaluation, 9% of AI summaries were so flawed they had to be removed.
There's a significant risk that asylum decisions will be based upon and impaired by material errors of fact.
#asylum #ai #legal #migrants #homeoffice #ukpolitics #ukpol