Big Tech Faces Growing Pressure to Prioritize Transparency Amid AI Ethics and Regulatory Scrutiny

The tech industry is facing increased pressure when it comes to transparency and accountability as these companies wield significant power within society due to their collection and analysis of vast amounts of data. The need for transparency is underlined by the lack of tools like the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which has played a key role in holding government accountable. To this date, behemoths like Meta, Google, and Apple have no requirement to reveal the extent and breadth of information that governments are required to do under FOIA. This lack of transparency is shocking, especially against the backdrop of the social impacts of social media sites, including mental disorders, polarization, and spreading lies.
A new proposal suggests instituting a FOIA-type system for Big Tech, requiring the companies to release essential data regarding algorithmic decision-making, data practices, and content moderation policies. The system would enable researchers, journalists, and policymakers to access certain data, which would make public accountability and surveillance easier. However, implementation of the system does not appear likely owing to strong forces of opposition that emanate from political polarizations and lobbying capacities of the tech firms that also reach into the policy process.
Meanwhile, Big Tech companies are increasingly sharing user data with U.S. authorities. A recent analysis found that these companies have handed over millions of user accounts to U.S. law enforcement over the past decade, with a significant increase in recent years. This trend raises concerns about privacy and government access to personal data. While companies comply with legal requests, critics argue that stronger encryption could protect user information from government intrusion.
Big Tech power is also becoming more and more intertwined with political agendas. Tech companies are taking on more policy authority in the U.S., particularly with the Trump administration. The alliance has fueled controversy regarding free speech and content moderation on social media sites. The politics of the era are shifting, with Big Tech moving closer to conservative interests while facing calls for regulation and accountability.
There is a demand for stricter regulation of AI and Big Tech in Europe, driven by innovation and moral issues. The EU wants to balance technological advancements with consumer protection and transparency, as compared to the U.S. system, which is often criticized as being lenient.
As the technology industry expands, regulatory forces are building. In 2025, the attention is on how to regulate digital advertising and getting Big Tech companies to be more open about what they do. This means fixing problems such as algorithmic bias, data privacy, and how digital platforms affect society. The coming year holds great challenges and opportunities for Big Tech, and transparency and accountability are at the center of public and legislative discussion.