This week, mounting scrutiny over platform responsibility converged with growing questions around advertising integrity and the future of AI. On today’s MadTech Daily, we discuss the UK government U-turning on its AI copyright plans, IAB Australia launching a measurement initiative, and Britannica suing OpenAI over AI training.

Meta is facing renewed criticism in the UK after failing to block illegal financial ads. A review by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) found 1,052 unauthorised ads for high-risk financial products in just one week, with more than half originating from accounts previously flagged to the company.

The issue of harmful content extends beyond advertising. Whistleblowers have accused both Meta and TikTok of amplifying harmful and outrage-driven content to boost engagement. According to reports, internal evidence suggests platforms knowingly tolerated increased risks around violence, exploitation, and extremism as competition for user attention intensified.

Concerns around trust and transparency are also surfacing in the ad tech supply chain. Publicis Groupe has advised certain clients to pause spending with The Trade Desk following an independent audit that flagged issues around fees and media costs. 

In Sweden, major publishers including Aller Media, Bonnier News, and Schibsted backed Meta’s expulsion from IAB Sweden, citing persistent issues with fraudulent advertising and insufficient enforcement. 

Meanwhile, governments are stepping in to support struggling news ecosystems. The UK has launched a £12m initiative to bolster local journalism, with Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy warning of the rise of “news deserts” as financial pressures force closures. The fund aims to drive digital innovation and sustain regional reporting.

Looking ahead, the future of advertising in AI is coming into focus. Google has indicated that ads could eventually be introduced into its Gemini platform. According to SVP Nick Fox, insights from ads in AI-powered search experiences may inform future monetisation strategies, though the company insists any rollout will prioritise user experience.