iOS vs. ISIS: Apple working with U.S. government to fight terror

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Apple takes second spot in list of UK's best employers
Apple is doing its bit to combat terrorism.
Photo: Jim Merithew/Cult of Mac

Apple may not be willing to help hack its iPhones for the FBI, but (contrary to certain spin) it’s in no way supportive of terrorism, either.

To demonstrate this, Apple is one of several tech and media companies which met with the Justice Department yesterday to discuss ways to counter the spread of ISIS messaging on social media platforms.

Other power players at the meeting included Twitter, Snapchat, Facebook, MTV and Buzzfeed. Results of the meeting haven’t been released, but there have been no comments made regarding possible tensions involving Apple’s presence during the discussion — which addressed how terrorist propaganda can be fought by using, “counter-narratives and optimistic messaging” — whatever that means in reality.

This isn’t the first time Silicon Valley has engaged with the subject of how popular social media platforms can be used to recruit terrorists. Back in February, Twitter announced that it was working to shut down 125,000 ISIS-related accounts.

Last week, Presidential hopeful Donald Trump called on users to, “Boycott all Apple products until such time as Apple gives cellphone info to authorities regarding radical Islamic terrorist couple from [California.]” In an open letter, F.B.I. director James Comey has also argued that the top-notch security on devices like the iPhone have potential to aid terrorist groups like the Islamic State.

Source: CNN

 

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