January 16, 2026

TikTok to Launch New Age Checks in EU as Calls for Under-16 Social Media Ban Grow

TikTok will soon start new age-verification across the EU to catch users under 13. This move follows rising demands for social media bans for under-16s in the UK and Australia. Keir Starmer also backs a potential UK ban amid concerns over children’s screen time.

January 16, 2026

India Approves $800m Plan to Make Rare Earth Magnets, Cut Reliance on China

India approved an $800m scheme to produce 6,000 tonnes of rare earth magnets annually by 2032. Experts say India must master technology and scale production fast to reduce high dependence on China.

January 16, 2026

CCPA fines 8 e-commerce firms ₹44 lakh for selling illegal walkie-talkies

CCPA penalizes eight e-commerce platforms ₹44 lakh for listing unauthorized walkie-talkies that violate telecom laws. Four giants, including Amazon and Flipkart, face ₹10 lakh fines each. Notices sent to 13 platforms after over 16,970 non-compliant listings were found online.

January 16, 2026

MHA Forms High-Level Panel to Fight Digital Arrest Scams, Updates Supreme Court

The Ministry of Home Affairs has set up a high-level committee to study digital arrest scams. These cybercrimes trick victims by faking police and government officials to demand money. The committee includes top officials from multiple ministries and will meet bi-weekly to recommend ways to stop this growing fraud.

January 16, 2026

Man Poisoned by Sodium Bromide Following ChatGPT Advice; Experts Warn on ChatGPT Health Risks

A 60-year-old man used sodium bromide as a salt substitute after ChatGPT advice, resulting in poisoning. Experts warn about the safety of ChatGPT Health in Australia.