The social media company's been in the news for all the wrong reasons for months. But recently it's because of former FB employee-turned-whistleblower Frances Haugen. When the product manager left the company, she took thousands of internal documents with her. And spoke out – on everything from Instagram's damaging impact on teens' mental health to how Facebook fueled hate, misinformation, and political unrest. Now, over a dozen US news orgs are publishing a number of stories from redacted versions of the docs. We've Skimm'd it for you:
Jan 6: Facebook worked (not very hard) to stop the spread of misinformation before last year's election. But it reportedly rolled back a number of emergency measures after the 2020 elections. On Jan 6, Facebook staff watched chaos unleash. And tracked nearly 40,000 false news incidents per hour. One employee even said FB's been "fueling this fire for a long time." But the company denied responsibility for the Capitol attack, which left five dead and injured 140 officers.
Global reach: The company's apparently got some major language barriers. There aren't enough content moderators who speak local languages and can flag harmful content around the world. And FB's failed to establish AI solutions to address the problem, leading to violence in Ethiopia, Sri Lanka, and India. At one point, Apple threatened to remove FB from its app store over reports of people using it to sell and trade maids in the Middle East. And CEO Mark Zuckerberg apparently complied with gov demands in Vietnam to censor "anti-state" posts during last year's elections.
Other notifications: As in, it's not all terrible. Some of the news just shows a poke, er...peek into Facebook. One of the company's priorities: make Facebook cool again. Internal docs show the company stressing that it's more popular with boomers than zoomers. And that it's throwing everything and a pair of low-rise jeans at trying to rebrand its image (and maybe even its name). That includes debating whether to remove the "like" button on Instagram. And apparently tweaking the News Feed to include content from outside users' personal network.
What's next?
There's pressure on Zuckerberg himself to testify. Again. Meanwhile, the company maintains that it's not an evil overlord and that it's "no different" from other social media sites. And it's showing receipts: An exec apparently reminded people the company spends $13 billion on over 40,000 jobs to "keep people safe on Facebook." But the SEC, which has the docs, could look deeper. And has the power to fine Zuckerberg or remove him as chairman – though it's not clear how likely that would be.
theSkimm
Facebook's platforms (including WhatsApp, Instagram) are more than just a way to share baby pics and check in on friends. The company reaches billions of people every day – shaping their opinions on everything from politics to hate. And this latest batch of info could have a lot of folks eyeing the delete button.
PS: Even if you know it's harmful, it's hard to step away from Instagram. We Skimm'd how to keep your social media use in check.
And Also...This
What's not getting better…
Climate change.Yesterday,a UN reportfound that concentrations of greenhouse gaseshit a record high last year.Even with a temporary slowdown of new emissions during the pandemic, carbon dioxidewas almost 150% higherthan pre-industriallevels. The report comes nearly a week before global leaders meet for COP26 climate talks.And days before the G20 leadersmeet inRome.Now, the UN's warning that the world is "way off track"from its target to cut emissionsin an attempt to reduce global warming. And some scientists say the world needs to cut its emissionsin halfin order to get rising temps under control.
Where the plot is thickening…
Saudi Arabia. Earlier this week, a former senior Saudi intelligence officer had some tea to spill about the House of Saud – aka the Saudi royal family. Especially about Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS). Earlier this year, a US intel report found that MBS approved Jamal Khashoggi's killing – a journalist who'd been critical of the kingdom. Now, a former intel officer is saying MBS also boasted he could kill the late King Abdullah. And hinted that he could get a "poison ring" from Russia that'd do the trick. (Note: King Abdullah died of stated natural causes at age 90.) The Saudi gov's denied the claims. And accused the former official of lying.
What's a real blockbuster…
This Lego bust. This week, policebroke apart a Lego trafficking operation. Seattle policesaid a shop ownerwas reselling 171 stolenLegosetsworth thousands of dollars. Prosecutorscharged him with trafficking stolen property. Experts pieced together thatLegotrafficking has become a major concern.Now, the store owner reportedly faces up to 10 years in prison, a$20,000 fine, or both.Sounds more painful than stepping on one.
Happy True/False Tuesday. Today's installment: Experts estimate the clit has about 8,000 sensitive nerve endings. Time to take your guess.
Okay, time's up. Yes, it's true. Oh, and that's double the amount of a penis, btw. Talk about a pleasure powerhouse. If you could use some help tapping into it, try Vella Women's Pleasure Serum. It delivers CBD deep beyond skin to relax the vaginal smooth muscle tissue. Which can help you have more intense orgasms more often — whether you're flying solo or playing with a partner. And who would say no to that? Bonus: It's condom compatible, vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free, and 30% off for Skimm'rs with code SKIMM30. Yes, really. Go on.
Thing to Know
870 years
About how long it actually took to build Rome, from its legendary founding in 753 BC to the empire's height in 117 AD. Read: not a day. And, tbh, it's still a work in progress.
Good things tend to take time, intention, and teamwork. It's why our friends at Gevalia embrace the power of slowwww. Aka taking time to enjoy life – and coffee. Case in point: their slow-roasted blends, which are made to be savored with others. Because better > bitter. Every time. So try not to rush yourself today. And be sure to take a real break. Like, one without screens or stress...but with some delicious java and good company. Drink up.
Time to Start Shopping for...
Winter weather. That's right — it's never too early to grab new waterproof boots or make sure you've got a pair of text-friendly gloves ready to go. To help you prep for chilly temps, we rounded up everything you'll need to stay as snug as a (stylish) bug in a rug. Check out…
Here are today's recs to help you live a smarter life…
1. Products you'll want if you spend all day in front of screens. We feel you on the deepest of levels. And unfortunately, so do the effects of blue light. Thankfully, RFLCT's products are meant to up your skincare routine with added protection. Learn more.*
2. The perfect sweater if you like to be snuggled at all times. Good luck leaving the house with this brand's comfy, oversized stroopwafel knit. It's made with the softest, 100% recycled cashmere yarn. For the most luxurious, move-me-from-this-couch-I-dare-you vibe. Here's 15% off with code Skimm15.*
3. How to save up to $500 on your next getaway. This flight club sends you the best deals for when you're feeling travel-ready. Like a round trip to Costa Rica from $187. Or Paris from $275. Join for $1 for the next 12 hours.*
4. Crisp, refreshing wine that actually has no alcohol. Helloooooo brighter mornings. This brand's sparkling white and rosé wines are low in sugar, gluten-free, and taste like the real thing. Plus they're made with natural ingredients. And ship right to your door. Happy happy-hourin'.*
6. Perfect gifts for the world traveler in your life. Aka this posthumous release by Anthony Bourdain with expert advice about where to eat, what to do, and what to avoid. And a scratch-off travel poster to keep track of their adventures. Wanderlust: activated.
*PS: This is a sponsored post.
Skimm'rs
We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.
Sweet toothers unite...Sharol E (CA). She curates chocolate tasting kits featuring artisanal and single-origin chocolate bars with Earth-friendly packaging. You can sign up for a monthly subscription here.
Bells will be ringing...Amira M (FL). She's spent years renovating a 146-year-old property in Daytona Beach. And transforming it into The Foxtail Estate, a boutique bed and breakfast, and wedding venue. Check it out.
(Some) Birthdays...Jessica Trief (NY), Betelle Hailemariam (DC), Will Shain (MA), Bryan Lazarus (CA), Rebecca Karsenti (FL), Mia Bella Allegra (IL), Alex Rossberg (IL), Christi Jenkins (AR), Bryan Simpson (FL), Jenna Rozenblat (GA), Tim Elsner (TX), Alannah Mannix-Slobig (IL), Mary Martin (MI), Kristin Reagan (IN)
*Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.
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