Ethical Web Data: Oxylabs’ Initiative Garners Anthem Award for Social Impact

VILNIUS, LITHUANIA – November 19, 2025 – Oxylabs, a leading provider of web intelligence solutions, has been honored with both a Silver Award and the Community Voice Award at the 5th Annual Anthem Awards for its pro bono initiative, Project 4β. The initiative is gaining recognition for its commitment to ethical data practices and for empowering organizations dedicated to public interest work through access to crucial web data resources.

Democratizing Data for the Public Good

Project 4β, launched in 2022, directly addresses a significant challenge facing many non-profit organizations, academic researchers, and investigative journalists: limited access to the vast amounts of web data necessary for effective work. While massive datasets are increasingly vital for informed decision-making, the technical expertise and financial resources required to collect and analyze this data often remain out of reach for organizations operating with limited budgets.

“There’s a real asymmetry in access to information,” explains a source familiar with the project. “Large corporations and governments have the means to collect and analyze data at scale, leaving many public interest organizations at a disadvantage. Project 4β is attempting to level the playing field.”

The initiative provides free access to Oxylabs’ advanced web data collection tools, coupled with expert guidance, enabling beneficiaries to conduct research, monitor disinformation campaigns, and investigate critical issues. Focus areas include tackling misinformation, supporting environmental research, and enabling investigative journalism, all with a focus on transparency and accountability.

A Growing Network of Partners

Project 4β has fostered a robust network of partnerships with leading academic institutions and non-profit organizations globally. These collaborations extend to institutions such as Northwestern University, Stanford University, and Carnegie Mellon University, providing researchers with the tools to deepen their understanding of complex issues. Non-profit organizations like the Pulitzer Center, the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ), and Follow the Money are leveraging the initiative to enhance their investigative capabilities and uncover critical information.

“The value isn't just in the tools themselves, but in the collaborative network that’s being built,” states another source involved with the initiative. “Researchers and journalists are sharing best practices and working together to tackle complex challenges.”

The project also extends to collaborative work with governmental bodies, including the Lithuanian Environmental Protection Department and the Lithuanian Communications Regulatory Authority, demonstrating the potential for data-driven insights to inform public policy.

Navigating the Ethical Landscape of Web Intelligence

While the benefits of web data collection are clear, the industry has faced increasing scrutiny regarding ethical considerations and data privacy. Concerns surrounding data scraping, the potential for misuse of information, and the need for responsible data handling are paramount. Oxylabs acknowledges these challenges and emphasizes a commitment to ethical data practices as a core principle of Project 4β.

“We believe that web intelligence can be a powerful force for good, but it must be used responsibly,” says a representative of the company. “Transparency, accountability, and respect for data privacy are essential.”

However, the company has not been without challenge. The recent lawsuit filed by Reddit in October 2025, naming Oxylabs alongside other companies, underscores the complexities and legal ambiguities surrounding web data collection. Oxylabs is actively responding to the allegations, highlighting its commitment to navigating the ethical and legal landscape responsibly. The company's ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification further demonstrates a commitment to information security and data protection.

Furthermore, Oxylabs’ commitment to responsible data collection extends beyond the scope of Project 4β, shaping its overall business practices and guiding its approach to web intelligence. The company is actively involved in industry discussions regarding ethical guidelines and data privacy standards, contributing to the development of responsible data practices within the web intelligence community.