CCIA Opposes New York’s Potential Algorithm Regulation

Banning social media platforms from using algorithms to tailor content could expose children to harmful content, the Computer & Communications Industry Association said Wednesday. CCIA wrote a letter of opposition against a bill the New York State Legislature is considering. Introduced by Sen. Andrew Gounardes (D) and sponsored by Sen. Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick (R), the Stop Addictive Feeds Exploitation (SAFE) for Kids Act (S-7694A) would ban platforms from using algorithms that provide “addictive feeds” to minors. California is also looking into regulations for kids’ algorithms (see 2405210019). “These algorithms also protect teens from harmful content and help tailor online content for younger users,” CCIA said. “While the intent is to reduce the potential for excessive scrolling, eliminating algorithms could lead to a random assortment of content being delivered to users, potentially exposing them to inappropriate material.” Northeast Regional Policy Manager Alex Spyropoulos said there are “numerous tools” that prevent excessive screen time and content consumption without compromising protective measures. The New York bill’s age-verification provisions could also “increase the amount of sensitive information users must share with companies and potentially cut off users from the online communities they depend on,” CCIA said.