September 25, 2025
Tech News
The European Union has reached out to major tech firms, including Apple, Google, and Microsoft, regarding their strategies to combat online financial scams. This inquiry is part of the EU’s Digital Services Act, which aims to enhance accountability among tech companies and protect consumers from financial losses, estimated annually at 4 billion euros in Europe.
In a significant development, Waymo has launched “Waymo for Business,” a program targeting corporate travel by enabling companies to set up accounts for their employees to access robotaxi services. Available in various cities, this initiative aims to streamline business travel while giving employers control over ride management.
Honor Malaysia has entered a partnership with MyDigital ID to include the MyDigital ID application on new smartphones, starting with the Honor X9d 5G. This pre-installation aims to simplify the registration process for digital identity, supporting the government’s effort to register 15 million Malaysians by year-end and enhancing secure access to governmental and private digital services.
Furthermore, as part of Waymo’s focus on airport access, the company has secured permissions to operate at key airports such as San José Mineta International and is testing its services at San Francisco International Airport, targeting frequent business travelers seeking convenient transportation options.
In a related vein of innovation, the rise of AI technologies has raised concerns globally, especially regarding their potential to increase vulnerability to scams. Regulatory bodies stress the need for tech companies to adopt proactive measures to safeguard consumers amid these technological advancements.
Tech Explained
Digital Services Act – This is a European Union regulation aimed at creating a safer digital space where the fundamental rights of users are protected, requiring large tech companies to take responsibility for moderating harmful or illegal content on their platforms.
Robotaxi – Refers to a self-driving vehicle that operates as a taxi, providing passengers with rides without a human driver. Companies like Waymo are using these vehicles to offer ridesharing services to consumers and businesses.
Biometrics – This technology refers to methods for recognizing humans based on their physical or behavioral characteristics, such as fingerprints or facial recognition. It is vital in digital identity systems for ensuring secure user validation and access.
Online Scams – These are fraudulent schemes conducted over the internet, often targeting consumers through deceptive practices, which can lead to financial loss and identity theft. The EU is currently addressing the issue to protect consumers better.
Artificial Intelligence – This term refers to computer systems that simulate human intelligence to perform tasks such as understanding natural language and recognizing patterns. Concerns regarding AI relate to its potential misuse in creating scams that could deceive consumers.