ICYMI: 02.28.23

Russian Propagandists Purchasing Twitter Blue

Twitter accounts promoting Kremlin propaganda and spreading articles from Russian articles from state-run media are using the social media account's verification system to accelerate the spread of politically charged misinformation.

AI Becoming a Tool For Companies to Make Layoff Decisions

A survey of 300 human resource leaders showed that 98 percent of them will use software and algorithms that track tracks employees’ work experiences, certifications, skill sets, and performance data to make layoff decisions.

Social Media Platforms Offer Paid Verification for Users

Twitter, Meta, and Snap are adding paid tiers to their platforms to create new revenue streams as ad revenue declines. Perks include a verified badge, increased visibility in search results, customized account settings, and account protection.

Job Cuts Don’t Always Lead to Workforce Cuts

Companies that announced big layoffs in the past have closed the year with nearly as many employees.

Office Landlord Defaults on the Rise

Five to ten office towers become at risk of defaulting every month because of low occupancy, expiring leases, or maturing debt that would have to be refinanced at a higher rate.

Amazon Employees Express Outrage Over Sudden RTO Policy

Amazon employees expressed concerns that CEO Andy Jassey’s sudden RTO mandate would potentially disrupt arrangements for child care, caregivers for aging parents, or potentially moving in order to be within commuting distance of the office. 

China Using Courts to Interfere with Western Patents

Western officials are accusing China of using its courts to interfere with foreign patents and “to pressure patent right holders to grant them cheaper access to European technology.”