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Article

12 Jan 2016

Author:
Nellie Bowles, Guardian (UK)

Widow of American killed in Jordan attack sues Twitter over growth of Isis

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The widow of an American killed in a shooting attack at a Jordanian police training center has sued Twitter, blaming the social media company for making it easier for Islamic State to spread its message.  Tamara Fields, a Florida woman whose husband Lloyd died in the 9 November attack, accused Twitter of having knowingly let the militant Islamist group use its network to spread propaganda, raise money and attract recruits. She said the San Francisco-based company had until recently given Isis an “unfettered” ability to maintain official Twitter accounts…The case is the latest episode in the collision between the global technology industry and its increasing role in complex geopolitical issues, including terrorism.  Silicon Valley executives have continued to maintain that they only provide the platform for communication, and that they can’t be held accountable for what happens on their platforms…“We have teams around the world actively investigating reports of rule violations, identifying violating conduct, partnering with organizations countering extremist content online, and working with law enforcement entities when appropriate.”  This lawsuit is unique in using the US Anti-Terrorism Act, which has mostly been used by Americans to sue Hamas, Hezbollah and other alleged foreign terrorist organizations…