Immigrants Face Visa Denials for Antisemitic or Extremist Social Media Posts Under New Trump Policy

The Trump administration is picking up the pace for deportations of immigrants. The latest news on this front comes from the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), which confirmed that it would begin scrutinizing social media accounts belonging to aliens.

This means strict monitoring of accounts belonging to immigrants, as well as foreign students and resident applicants. The organization will be hunting down those individuals promoting antisemitic activity, alongside reports linked to physical harassment against the Jewish community.

Any such activity found during screening would be held against the individual and therefore would deny them immigration benefits. Some examples of what content falls under this category include the likes of marketing, sponsoring, and showing support for terrorism, extremist groups, or negative content promoting antisemitic behavior.

They will refuse to tolerate anyone who sympathizes with terrorists in an attempt to make the country safe again, the USCIS shared. This is why all foreigners entering the country, especially those linked to educational institutions across America, will be subjected to the latest scrutiny guidelines.

The news was first teased last month and seems to be in line with a crackdown against anti-semitism across the nation. This includes a growing rise in terrorist threats from foreigners. The law was signed immediately by President Trump after he took charge this year.

The news also comes after several years of demonstrations against Israel for the war in Gaza, causing many foreign students to raise their voices against the atrocities committed against Palestinians. Many privacy rights advocates and HR groups had called out the latest policy as unfair. They also felt it was a clear violation of free speech and singles out immigrants in the most unfair manner.

The move was called out as the most formalizing censorship ordeal by the Trump administration. Advocates warned that the current policy is trading free speech for silence and fear. There is also going to be more surveillance of those holding US visas and green cards, the US Department of Homeland Security confirmed.

They hope the latest changes can provide greater guidance and make the American public a safe place and free from terrorist aliens. This includes those who they claim show support for groups such as Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis.

Image: DIW-Aigen

Read next: Google All Set to Launch its Discover Feature to Desktop Homepage After Years of Testing
by Dr. Hura Anwar via Digital Information World

Google All Set to Launch its Discover Feature to Desktop Homepage After Years of Testing

Search giant Google is set to launch Google Discover on its desktop version’s homepage. This means when you arrive on Google.com, you’ll be able to use the news feature.

We’ve been hearing about the launch since 2018, but it seems after years of experimenting, Google is finally ready to give in. The exciting news was first confirmed on the X app, where two users shared slides from a Googler that detailed more on the matter. Google shared this at the Search Central Live program that was held in Spain this morning.

The slide boldly stated that Google Discover is going to expand its surfaces to Desktop Search after years of testing. The alert is great as it really can transform the news landscape and alter the business model used by media publishers in real time.

Image: @talksaboutseo / X

The company also dropped hints about the latest feature when one tester was able to identify the details of a test carried out. Experts feel this is huge news and can give rise to major traffic across various publishers. For now, it’s mostly focusing on mobile phones when getting access to the various mobile platforms or the homepage for Google Mobile.

If it arrives on Google’s desktop home page, it can double as exposure for Google Discover traffic for different publishers. This can be a great thing for a lot of users, especially those who attain great amounts of traffic through the Discover feature.

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• Introduction to Digital Transformation in Finance
by Dr. Hura Anwar via Digital Information World

Introduction to Digital Transformation in Finance

Digital transformation in finance extends beyond online banking to encompass mobile apps, e-payment systems, and cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and blockchain. These innovations are revolutionizing how banks operate, enhancing customer experiences, and streamlining financial operations. The integration of traditional finance with digital assets promises greater financial inclusivity, interoperability, and economic empowerment.

Image: Pexels

What is a Fiat Wallet?

A fiat wallet is a digital platform designed to store and manage government-issued currencies, such as the US dollar, euro, or British pound. It functions similarly to an online bank account but is optimized for online transactions and integrated with cryptocurrency exchanges. This integration allows users to seamlessly convert fiat currency into cryptocurrency and vice versa, providing a versatile tool for managing both traditional and digital assets.

Fiat wallets offer several key features:

• Security Measures: They employ robust security measures, including encryption and multi-factor authentication, to protect user funds from unauthorized access. It is important to choose reputable providers to benefit from advanced security features.
• Convenience and Accessibility: Users can store, send, and receive fiat currencies digitally, with easy deposits via bank transfers, credit cards, or online banking services. This makes them accessible from anywhere with an internet connection.
• Seamless Trading Experience: Fiat wallets connect directly to cryptocurrency exchanges, facilitating quick conversions between fiat and crypto currencies. This makes them essential for crypto traders and investors who need rapid access to funds to capitalize on market opportunities.

In essence, a fiat wallet serves as a bridge between traditional banking systems and the cryptocurrency ecosystem, enhancing financial inclusivity and efficiency by providing a secure and convenient way to manage traditional currencies.

Role of Fiat Wallets in Bridging Traditional and Digital Finance

Fiat wallets are digital platforms designed to store and manage government-issued currencies, such as the US dollar, euro, or British pound. They function similarly to online bank accounts but are optimized for online transactions and integrated with cryptocurrency exchanges. This integration allows users to seamlessly convert fiat currency into cryptocurrency and vice versa, providing a versatile tool for managing both traditional and digital assets.

Impact on Financial Systems

The integration facilitated by fiat wallets has several implications for financial systems:

• Enhanced Efficiency: By reducing the need for intermediaries and facilitating quick conversions, fiat wallets enhance transaction efficiency and reduce costs associated with traditional banking methods.
• Increased Adoption of Digital Assets: By making it easier for users to engage with cryptocurrencies, fiat wallets contribute to the broader adoption of digital assets, further integrating them into mainstream financial systems.
• Regulatory Considerations: The use of fiat wallets also raises regulatory considerations, as governments and financial institutions work to ensure compliance and security standards are met in this evolving financial landscape.

Overall, fiat wallets are instrumental in bridging the gap between traditional and digital finance, offering a secure, efficient, and convenient way to manage both fiat and crypto assets.

Integration of Traditional and Digital Finance

The convergence of traditional finance with digital assets is facilitated by several key trends:

1. Blockchain Technology and Decentralized Finance (DeFi)

• Transparency and Security: Blockchain technology underpins digital assets, providing transparency, security, and efficiency in financial transactions. DeFi platforms leverage blockchain to offer decentralized alternatives to traditional financial systems, promoting faster settlements and reduced fraud.
• Decentralization: Digital assets transcend traditional banking systems and geographic boundaries, enabling global accessibility and financial inclusivity.

2. Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs)

• Regulatory Frameworks: CBDCs are being explored by central banks to further integrate traditional finance with digital assets. This could enhance financial stability and efficiency while maintaining regulatory oversight.

3. Embedded Finance and Open Banking

• Seamless Financial Experiences: Embedded finance integrates financial services into non-financial platforms, such as e-commerce sites or social media, allowing users to access financial products without switching apps. Open banking enables secure data sharing, promoting innovation and competition in the financial sector.

Future of Money Management

The future of money management will be characterized by a seamless integration of traditional financial structures with the flexibility and innovation of digital finance. This integration will focus on enhancing accessibility, efficiency, and personalization while addressing regulatory and security challenges.

Key Trends Shaping the Future

• Hyper-Personalization through AI and Machine Learning: Financial institutions will leverage AI and ML to offer tailored products and services, enhancing customer experiences and operational efficiency.
• Blockchain and DeFi: These technologies will continue to revolutionize financial transactions, providing secure, transparent, and decentralized alternatives to traditional systems.
• Embedded Finance: Financial services will be integrated into everyday platforms, making transactions more seamless and accessible.

In summary, the future of money management will be shaped by the convergence of traditional finance with digital assets, driven by technological innovation and changing consumer needs. This transformation promises to enhance financial inclusivity, efficiency, and personalization, setting the stage for a more integrated and dynamic financial landscape.

by Web Desk via Digital Information World

From LinkedIn’s Engagement Surge to X’s Plunge: Unseen Shifts in Social Media Engagement

BufferApp analyzed different social networks like Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, YouTube, Pinterest, Threads, and X to find out which apps are getting the highest engagement rates and where the engagement rates are declining. Engagement rate is a key metric to find out how much people interact with content. If a post has reached 10,000 people but it has gotten fewer likes, it means that the engagement rate is low, but the engagement rate will be considered high if the post gets hundreds of interactions.

According to the calculations by Buffer, LinkedIn has the highest engagement rate, with an average engagement rate of 6.50%. It was followed by a 5.07% engagement rate on Facebook which is steady and a 4.86% engagement rate on TikTok. YouTube’s engagement rate was 4.41%, especially in short-form videos. The lowest engagement rate calculated was on Instagram with a 1.16% engagement rate, but there is also a chance of hidden engagement through private interactions on the app.

Engagement rates on those apps from January 2024 to January 2025 were also analyzed, which shows how engagement trends have changed over time. It was found that LinkedIn’s engagement rate was steadily rising over this period to reach 6.50% average which is the highest. In January 2024, the median engagement rate of LinkedIn was 6.00% which reached 8.01% in January 2025. There were some factors like less content saturation, conversations getting rewarded by algorithm, and diverse content formats which contributed towards the overall growth of engagement rates on LinkedIn.

The analysis also found that even though Instagram has the lowest median interaction rate right now at 1.16%, it declined slowly over the past year. In January 2024, Instagram’s engagement rate was 2.94% which declined to 0.61% in January 2025. It doesn't mean that Instagram is disappearing, it just means that it is moving behind the scenes. More content consumption, private engagement, and reel performance are some factors that are bringing a shift in user behavior which is then contributing to the decline in Instagram engagement.

Meta's Threads had the highest engagement rate when it was initially launched, but its engagement rate declined from 4.76% in February 2024 to 3.60% in February 2025. Even though it is still doing better than X, its engagement rate has leveled out because of increased competition and algorithm changes. The early adopter effect is also fading but it is still a high-engagement platform because of its interactive content and real-time engagement.

TikTok has surpassed YouTube in engagement rate and now has an engagement rate of 4.86%. Its median engagement rate was 5.14% in January 2024 which decreased to 4.56% in January 2025. Longer videos on TikTok are performing better and creators are making content that keeps users hooked. There is also a competition of short-form videos with YouTube Shorts and Instagram Reels being there so TikTok is no longer the only major player. Users have also complained about the content being more polished and predictable on TikTok because of the increase in the presence of brands. YouTube Shorts are quickly catching up with TikTok, with a median engagement rate of 4.41%. Its median engagement rate increased from 3.95% in January 2024 to 4.71% in January 2025. YouTube Shorts is doing well because its content is more discoverable than TikTok, there is higher audience intent and there are more ad revenue opportunities for creators.

In January 2024, Pinterest’s median engagement was 3.08% which increased to 5.26% in January 2025 which shows that it has potential for long-term engagement. Pinterest is a search-driven platform which means that users actively seek out content there and pins get longer engagement, unlike engagement on other platforms which fade quickly. Most users are also using Pinterest as a search engine for ideas and inspiration. Facebook’s engagement rate is as steady as ever at 5.45% over the past year mostly because of Facebook groups, demographic engagement, and new monetization tools.

X has recently seen a drop in its engagement, from 3.47% in January 2024 to 2.15% in January 2025, which makes it the second-lowest platform in terms of engagement after Instagram. There have been major algorithm changes on X which are prioritizing subscribers and recommended content instead of organic reach and there's a lot of lurking behavior seen on the platform with users passively consuming the content without liking or commenting. Many creators have left the platform as well because of its instability and frequent policy changes.

So, if you are making a strategy for your content and need a platform that can get you the highest engagement, make sure to pick one that aligns with your goals. Each platform has a different content requirements so adapt your strategy in a way that goes well with all platforms if you are posting on multiple apps. LinkedIn and Facebook prefer quality over quantity, while platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube Shorts want frequency as well. Consistently engaging in real-time conversations on platforms like Threads and X will help you build a community and get high engagements.

H/T: Buffer Blog.

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by Arooj Ahmed via Digital Information World

Meta Expands Teen Safety Controls on Instagram With Parental Approvals and Daily Usage Limits

Social media giant Meta just shared more information about teen account protection for its Instagram app.

The platform explains anyone below the age of 16 won’t be allowed to go live until they receive permission from their parents. They’ll also require parental approval to switch off protection for explicit content such as nudity. The latter is a protective feature that blurs any age-sensitive pictures sent through DMs when detected.

We first saw the app roll out Teen Accounts last year in September. Now, it’s carrying limitations like private accounts. With the default settings in place, teenagers would need to accept new followers, and users who don’t follow them cannot see their material or interact with them.

The features in discussion include restrictions on texting, where teens would need to deal with strict messaging settings. This way, they can only be texted by those they’re following or connected to. Another feature, dubbed sensitive content restrictions, will have teens put out the most restrictive settings for sensitive material. This will limit the kind of sensitive material teens witness in different parts of the app, like Reels or Explore.

Then there will be limited interactions where teens can only receive tags or mentions from those on their followers list. They will similarly switch on the most restrictive type of anti-bullying feature out there called Hidden Words. In this way, all offensive terms and phrases would get filtered from DMs and requests.

Teens would similarly get notifications requesting them to leave the platform after an hour every day to prevent excessive use of the app. Lastly, there will be a new option for enabling sleep mode where users are reminded of their bedtime between 10pm to 7am so they can mute alerts and send out auto-replies for DMs.

Meta explained how Teen Accounts were shared to ensure teens remain guarded at all times. 97% of all teenagers between the ages of 13 to 15 will remain under the restrictions that Meta feels provide the most age-appropriate experience for youngsters.

Teen Accounts are making their way to Meta’s Facebook and Messenger apps too, beginning today. Therefore, they’ll also be very similar to Instagram and will be restricting all kinds of inappropriate material and unwanted feeds.

Meta confirmed how the release begins in the US, Canada, Australia, and the UK, while other nations will be following soon. As per a new survey, 94% of all parents claim Teen Accounts are useful, and 85% feel it’s getting easier to support positive experiences on the Instagram platform for teenagers. Meanwhile, more than 90% claim that default protections inside Teen Accounts are useful for showing support to this age bracket.

In terms of minor protection and providing control for parents, TikTok was seen updating the platform with a host of new features. These entail giving parents a chance to produce customized screen time schedules and also view who that teenager would follow.

Read next: WhatsApp Tests Advanced Chat Privacy to Block Exports and Auto Media Downloads
by Dr. Hura Anwar via Digital Information World

WhatsApp Tests Advanced Chat Privacy to Block Exports and Auto Media Downloads

According to a new report by WebBetaInfo, WhatsApp is testing a new feature that will let users put advanced privacy on their chats which will enable them to have full control over the decision to let people export their chats or save any media or not. This feature was recently spotted in the iOS Beta version and in the Android Beta version too. This feature can be enabled from the toggle in the settings for single and group chats.

When it is enabled, it stops users from exporting their entire chat history out of WhatsApp and they won't be able to auto automatically download images and videos from that chat as well. It is still unclear whether the media can be downloaded manually or not. This feature will prevent any type of media you send to get automatically saved in galleries. This is similar to how disappearing messages work when messages or media do not get saved automatically after they are sent.

When this advanced privacy setting is enabled in a group chat, all members get notified and Meta AI also gets disabled because of this setting. It is still possible to send individual messages or take screenshots when this setting is enabled, so this means that it will slow down efforts to save chats and not prevent it completely. This feature is only available for beta and there is no news about when it will be available for all users.

Read next: They Look Real, Sound Smart, and Don’t Exist — AI Experts Are Fooling the News
by Arooj Ahmed via Digital Information World

They Look Real, Sound Smart, and Don’t Exist — AI Experts Are Fooling the News

AI generated material has become a problem even for giant media companies. They have been found to be treating AI generated characters as experts on different subjects. Media companies, like the BBC, the Sun, the Guardian, Newsweek, Medium, Fortune etc., have promoted fake characters by quoting them as reliable sources in their newspapers. But these experts do not even exist and are just the product of AI.

An investigation by the journalist Rob Waugh of the Press Gazette has revealed the infiltration of AI in mainstream media. He says that some famous newspapers published articles quoting AI generated characters as experts on various subjects. And they have been quoted again and again, indicating that the media outlets were totally unaware of their actual reality. This infiltration of AI has decreased the level of authenticity of even reliable media outlets and exposed the potential dangers of AI.

Providing details on LinkedIn, Rob Waugh writes that one of such fake experts was an alleged psychologist Barbara Santini. Claimed to have a degree from Oxford, Santini was quoted hundreds of times in the British media as an expert psychologist, giving her opinion on different psychological problems. Rob found her to be fake when he tried to talk to her on phone and to confirm her qualifications, but she refused. She wanted to communicate only through WhatsApp: messages on WhatsApp would have allowed her to remain hidden as an AI generated character.

He gives another example of Rebecca Leigh of Academized. She also presented herself as an expert commentator on various subjects and had been quoted in the famous newspapers like Fortune and Business. Her profile on the website described her as a biochemist and science educator with a 12-year experience. But when Waugh asked the expert to prove herself to be a human, she stopped communicating. It was revealed later that she was using a fake name, picture and profile. The company also accepted that the profile had fake details. But to save itself from blame, it argued that fake name and profile details are used to keep writers anonymous.

Surprisingly, the similar photo was being used by another tech writer on another media service, LeadDev, under the profile name Sara Sparrow. Either AI is copying data of authentic writers, or it is using the same data at more than one place.

AI might be infiltrating media outlets, but the role played by humans in it should not be ignored. Qwoted and ResponseSource, two networking services connecting journalists with expert sources, have been found using fake AI experts. Similarly, humans could be behind other such usage of AI in the media, including giant media outlets, to speed up the process.

But it is not hard to detect AI in journalism. Qwoted does warn its users of a possibly AI generated content if the response of a query on the website is too fast to be from a human. Moreover, it also provides the option of Check for AI which can detect text generated by any AI system. So it is far better to establish the truth of a source than to start believing it just because data is coming from famous media outlets. This is no longer true because the authenticity of media has been compromised by AI.

Image: DIW-Aigen

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