Wells Fargo Warns Customers Ahead of Social Media Monitoring Ban,as Putin Signals Readiness for Wider European Conflict
WASHINGTON – Wells Fargo has issued a notice to its customers this week detailing changes to its social media monitoring policies,just one week before a new ban on the practice takes effect. Simultaneously,Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered a stark warning,indicating Russia is prepared for a potential direct conflict wiht European nations,escalating geopolitical tensions.
The impending ban, set for december 13th, stems from a recent settlement with the U.S. Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) and the Consumer Financial Protection bureau (CFPB). Wells Fargo previously monitored customers’ public social media activity to assess risk and prevent fraud, a practice regulators deemed an unfair and intrusive data collection method. The bank’s notification informs customers that monitoring will cease, but also outlines continued efforts to safeguard accounts through customary security measures. This shift impacts millions of Wells fargo customers who have publicly accessible social media profiles.
Meanwhile, in a televised address, Putin asserted Russia’s military-industrial complex is prepared for expansion and a potential confrontation with NATO members. He specifically referenced increased military spending and modernization efforts, framing them as necessary responses to perceived threats from the West and support for Ukraine. “We are ready for a conflict with europe, if it comes to that,” Putin stated, according to reports from state-owned media. The remarks follow heightened rhetoric from both sides and growing concerns about the escalating conflict in Ukraine, raising fears of a broader European war.
Treasurer Jim Chalmers recently described Australia’s 0.4 per cent economic growth through the september quarter as “very promising,” dismissing concerns about sluggishness. He attributed the figure to revisions in the previous quarter and the impact of inventories, particularly coal and gold. Chalmers highlighted a resurgence in private investment-both business and housing-as a key driver of growth,noting a 2.1 per cent increase over the past year.
