Merve provided information and shared concerns about privacy and "deepfakes" on the internet.  Technology related to social media and shopping on the internet has evolved to the extent that big businesses (like Amazon) and Social Media and advertising companies (think YouTube, Google and Facebook) can gather thousands of pieces of information about each of us.  This results in micro-targeting of each one of us, used for advertising and political purposes. 

 

This is not always benign! FaceBook's own internal research in 2016 revealed that "64% of all extremist group joins are due to our recommendation tools," with most of that driven by the "Groups You Should Join" and "Discover" algorithms.
Facebook's recommendation systems grow the problem!

 

Merve shared much more information and showed examples of deepfakes on the Internet--too much to include here--so it's unfortunate if you missed it!

 

 More about the meeting:

 

Our RYE student from Austria, Emily Haustein, shared some of her experiences and impressions of her year here in Reno.  As usual, students from other countries are amazed at the social and sports components that are an integral part of our education system.  And very pleasantly surprised how friendly we Americans are, and how willing to talk with strangers!  Safe travels home, Emily!

 - Dan Carne paid $25 for his trip to Pebble Beach in February to attend the ProAm golf tournament

 - Holly Bromley paid $70 for her 32nd wedding anniversary and escape to the desert with RYE student Emily.

 - Kyle Whaley - paid $1 for each of his 32 years of wedded bliss with Lorna.

 - Merve Hickok paid $20 for her birthday, which she celebrated on June 10.

 

 

As part of our annual commitment to Achievement Beyond Obstacles with 3 other local clubs, RSR committed to 6 sponsors for our ABO high school grads.  Even though they didn't speak in person, they applied for scholarships and went through a lengthy process, for which each was awarded a stipend.  We will have taped speeches and/or interviews later in the year.  Please let Bob or Jonnie know if you are willing to sponsor one of our outstanding students for $100. 

Keeping in touch is important, so let Bob Stewart (rotarystewart@gmail.com) or Jonnie (jonnie.pullman@gmail.com) know of any news so we can put in in the bulletin, which will continue on at least a weekly basis.