Media News Daily: Top Stories for 12/02/2025

This page hosts daily news stories about the media, social media, and the journalism industry. Get the latest Hirings and Firings, Media Transactions, Controversies, and more.

Journalists Demand Ethical Use of AI in Newsrooms

Unionized journalists from the NewsGuild-CWA have launched a nationwide “AI Week of Action” (Dec. 1–5) calling for ethical standards in the use of artificial intelligence across newsrooms. Central to the campaign is the TNG-CWA’s Demands for Ethical AI in Journalism, a framework to safeguard journalists’ jobs and uphold news integrity. This follows a key arbitration win by the PEN Guild against POLITICO for introducing AI tools without agreed-upon protections, setting a national precedent. Actions include social media campaigns, petitions, and in-person demonstrations at Reuters and Business Insider offices. Guild leaders stress that while AI can support journalism, it cannot replace human judgment, empathy, or ethical scrutiny. Read More (Editor & Publisher Rating)

ACLU, Tech Advocates Oppose Georgia Social Media Parental Consent Law

The ACLU and other digital rights groups are urging the 11th Circuit Court to maintain a block on Georgia’s new law requiring parental consent for minors under 16 to use social media. Critics argue the law infringes on free speech and online anonymity, with broader implications for both minors and adults who cannot verify their age. The federal court previously sided with NetChoice, a tech industry group, halting enforcement due to First Amendment concerns. A similar law in Florida was recently upheld, raising the stakes of the appeal. The outcome could shape future legislation regulating youth access to digital platforms. Read More (MediaPost Rating)

Meta Refutes Viral Claim About Scanning Private Messages for AI Training

A viral claim suggesting Meta will use private DMs for AI training as part of a December 16 privacy policy update has been debunked. Meta clarified that only interactions with its AI tools—not personal chats—will be used for data insights and content personalization. The misinformation appears to stem from confusion around AI-related updates announced in October. According to Meta and fact-checking site Snopes, private messages remain off-limits unless shared directly with Meta AI. Users concerned about privacy are advised not to engage Meta AI within personal chats. Read More (Social Media Today Rating)