"Fascists": Elon Musk responds to proposed fines for disinformation on X

Elon Musk has criticized the Australian government, labeling it "fascists" in response to proposed legislation that would impose significant fines on social media companies for failing to address disinformation and online scams. The bill, which aims to enhance the Australian media regulator's authority, could result in fines of up to 5% of a company's global revenue. Musk's remarks have sparked backlash from Australian politicians, including Finance Minister Stephen Jones, who dismissed Musk's comments as "crackpot stuff," emphasizing the importance of national sovereignty. Former Labor Party leader Bill Shorten accused Musk of selectively advocating for free speech when it aligns with his business interests. This incident follows Musk's previous confrontations with Australian authorities regarding technology regulation, including a court case involving the removal of graphic content from X. Australia is actively pursuing regulations to manage the technology sector, including a minimum age limit for social media use and new data privacy measures aimed at preventing doxxing. The government has also indicated plans to introduce laws regulating the use of personal data by artificial intelligence.

- Elon Musk criticized proposed Australian laws aimed at combating disinformation.

- The legislation could impose fines of up to 5% of global revenue on social media companies.

- Australian politicians rebuked Musk's comments, emphasizing national sovereignty.

- Australia is implementing various regulations to manage technology and social media.

- The government plans to introduce laws addressing doxxing and AI data usage.