Tech & IT

X Refuses Data Access in Epstein Victim Case

In a perplexing legal standoff, lawyers for X (formerly Twitter) are blocking access to crucial account information for Rina Oh Amen, an artist and alleged victim of Jeffrey Epstein. Despite repeated subpoenas, the social media giant has refused to comply, hindering ongoing legal proceedings between Oh Amen and Virginia Giuffre, another well-known Epstein victim. This refusal has baffled both parties’ lawyers and delayed the case’s resolution.

In an unusual twist, the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, is refusing to release account data for Rina Oh Amen, an artist and alleged victim of Jeffrey Epstein. Oh Amen’s lawyers have been seeking access to her locked-out accounts as part of ongoing legal disputes involving Virginia Giuffre, another prominent Epstein victim. Despite these subpoenas being issued at Oh Amen’s request, X’s legal team has not complied, advising instead that the plaintiff herself should provide the information — a request that has left many puzzled, given her locked-out status.

The backdrop to this situation involves a complex legal exchange between Oh Amen and Giuffre. On social media, Giuffre accused Oh Amen of fabricating her victimhood to access funds designated for Epstein’s real victims, recruiting other girls for Epstein’s trafficking ring, and physically harming her. In retaliation, Oh Amen filed a defamation lawsuit against Giuffre, who countersued with allegations of sexual assault. Oh Amen then launched a countersuit, accusing Giuffre of similar misconduct.

While these legal entanglements continue, lawyers for both parties have cooperated in other aspects of the case, sharing documents and moving toward discovery. However, the stalemate over the X account data has become a significant stumbling block. Oh Amen’s attorney, Alexander Dudelson, expressed frustration, stating, “If they complied, ultimately, I could set a trial date and resolve this matter. This is preventing us from pushing forward right now.”

Giuffre’s legal team also finds X’s stance baffling. Kathleen R. Thomas, Giuffre’s lawyer, questioned why Oh Amen couldn’t access her own information, saying, “The plaintiff is doing the right thing.” Thomas has since requested judicial intervention to compel X to comply with the subpoenas, though this process is expected to delay the case further.

When Business Insider contacted X for a comment, they received an automated response stating that the company was “busy.” The unexplained obstruction from X has left both parties’ lawyers at a loss, with Thomas remarking, “I don’t know why they were so obstructionist about this subpoena. It’s baffling to me.”

The situation underscores the complexities and frustrations inherent in navigating legal disputes in the digital age, especially when crucial evidence is locked behind tech company policies. As the case drags on, the involved parties and their representatives are left in limbo, awaiting the release of information that could significantly impact the lawsuit’s outcome.

Source: Business Insider

Tech & IT

“Bombs and Porn” Debate Highlights Growing AI Concerns

AI data center projects across the United States are facing delays, cancellations, and growing public opposition as concerns rise over energy use, pollution, taxes, and the overall impact of artificial intelligence.

Nearly half of the data center capacity planned for 2026 has reportedly already been delayed or canceled. Local communities and lawmakers are increasingly pushing back against large AI infrastructure projects, with some states introducing restrictions on new developments.

Critics continue to question whether AI is truly improving daily life. Instead, AI tools are frequently associated with fake content, misinformation, cheating in schools, and harmful online material. Concerns also grew after reports connected a suspect in the 2025 shooting at Florida State University to extensive conversations with an AI chatbot before the attack.

The debate also includes concerns about AI being used in military and surveillance operations. AI-powered systems are increasingly being adopted by defense and government agencies, raising ethical and privacy concerns.

Environmental impact remains another major issue. Massive AI data center projects are expected to increase electricity demand significantly, with some companies planning new gas-powered infrastructure to support future expansion. Critics warn this could lead to higher emissions and additional pressure on energy grids.

Public skepticism toward AI also remains high. Recent polls show that many Americans believe AI could negatively affect jobs, education, and everyday life, while large numbers oppose building AI data centers near their communities.

Critics argue that instead of focusing on futuristic promises about “superintelligence,” tech companies and politicians should better explain the practical benefits AI is currently providing to ordinary people.

Tech & IT

Apple rolls out UK age verification with iOS 26.4 after Meta and Google child safety fines

Apple has introduced age verification for iPhone and iPad users in the UK with iOS 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4, adding a new layer of checks for accounts that require confirmation that the user is 18 or older.

According to the report, UK users may now be asked to verify their age by adding a credit card or scanning an ID, unless Apple has already confirmed that information. Apple says the process is required by law in some countries and regions for actions tied to an Apple Account, including downloading apps, changing certain settings, or accessing specific features. When verification is needed, a prompt appears in the Settings menu.

The rollout comes at a time when child safety rules are tightening across the UK. While current UK law does not specifically require device-level age verification, adult websites, including pornography platforms, are already expected to carry out age checks. That has led to wider discussion about whether verification should also happen at the device level, rather than only on individual sites.

The timing is especially notable because it follows a major child safety case involving Meta and Google. The companies were reportedly ordered to pay $6 million after a lawsuit in Los Angeles claimed that platforms including Facebook, WhatsApp, and YouTube had a serious impact on a young woman’s mental health.

Apple’s move may also reflect broader regulatory pressure. The UK government is reportedly considering stronger restrictions for under-16s on social media, similar to measures seen in Australia. Reports also indicate Apple has been working with Ofcom as these safety tools develop.

For users who cannot verify an adult identity, Apple suggests that some features may be limited or that the account may need to be placed under Family Sharing with a parent or guardian. The exact restrictions could vary depending on the situation.

Tech & IT

Australia Age Checks Now Required for Porn Access

Australia has begun enforcing stricter age-verification rules for online adult content, requiring platforms to take meaningful steps to stop under-18s from accessing pornography and other age-restricted material. The Age-Restricted Material Codes for services including social media, relevant electronic services, equipment providers, and designated internet services came into effect on March 9, 2026.

Under the new framework, some services may now require proof of age before allowing access to legal adult content. Australia’s eSafety Commissioner says the accepted methods can vary by platform, but any age-assurance process must be accurate, reliable, and compliant with Australian privacy law. eSafety has said the changes are intended to reduce children’s exposure to pornography, high-impact violence, and other harmful age-inappropriate material online.

The rollout has already affected access to some major adult platforms in Australia, while debate continues over privacy risks and how effective the rules will be in practice. Recent reporting has also linked the changes to rising interest in VPN services as some users look for ways around the restrictions.