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Big Tech, AI, and the quiet expansion of digital surveillance in Nigeria

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Based on a feed excerpt; full article content has not been acquired. Source evidence retrieved 06/11/2026, 20:15:24 UTC.

Briefings

A 2026 article by Global Voices examines how Big Tech companies in Nigeria leverage AI to expand digital surveillance, citing a 2024 FTC report on data collection. The piece highlights risks of data retention and lack of user control, noting that while AI offers inclusion opportunities, it may come with an 'invisible cost' of reduced personal information rights. The article explores the intersection of corporate power and authoritarian tendencies in the Global South.

Key points

• In September 2024, the US FTC investigated nine major social media and video-streaming companies, including Meta, YouTube, TikTok, and Twitch, for extensive user data collection.
• The investigation found that companies collected personal details, interests, online activities, and data from other sources, raising concerns about data retention and automated decision-making.

Context

This article is part of Global Voices' October 2026 Spotlight series on 'Big Tech and Authoritarianism,' exploring how Big Tech facilitates and hinders authoritarian governments and practices in the Global South.

Limitations

Evidence is limited to a single article from 2026. The 2024 FTC report mentioned is unverified and may not reflect current practices. Specific Nigerian data protection challenges are not detailed beyond general mentions of corporate power and surveillance risks.

Generated by Bittrees-hosted qwen35-2b sha256:aaf42c8b7c3c on 06/11/2026, 21:04:04 UTC. Based on publisher-provided feed evidence; may not cover the full original article. Check the source for details.

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