privacy-and-security15.52 min read
Nearby Glasses: An App That Alerts You to Secret Recording Wearables Nearby
2 days ago•Source: Gizmodo
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17.46 min•1 month ago
Moltbot's All‑Day AI: Excitement Meets Security Red Flags
An open-source, always-on AI assistant named Moltbot can push proactive prompts and operate across apps, but its need for deep system access and constant connectivity creates serious security risks, including prompt-injection attacks and exposed admin ports; experts warn it is not ready for broad use and urge caution.
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Using Burner Phones and 1Password’s Travel Mode for Enhanced Privacy at Borders
Using a burner phone, a cheap prepaid device that can be disposed of after use, is an effective way to protect personal data during border crossings and reduce digital distractions, as it limits the amount of personal information stored and minimizes tracking. Burner phones are widely available at retail stores and can be purchased with cash for anonymity, making them a popular choice for privacy-conscious individuals.
How to Prevent Border Agents from Accessing Your Phone
The article discusses the increasing use of burner phones as a privacy measure to prevent border agents from snooping through personal devices, highlighting their affordability, ease of use, and benefits for maintaining anonymity and reducing digital footprint, especially during border crossings or for general privacy concerns.
Whistleblower Warns of Social Security Data Breach via DOGE
A whistleblower claims that former officials at the Department of Government Efficiency copied the personal data of over 300 million Americans, including Social Security numbers, to a private, inadequately secured server within the SSA's cloud infrastructure, raising concerns about potential data exposure and misuse, despite SSA's assurances of data security.
Whistleblower Warns of Major Social Security Data Security Threats
A whistleblower has revealed that the Department of Government Efficiency uploaded a massive, unsecured Social Security database to the cloud, risking sensitive personal information of over 300 million Americans, raising concerns about identity theft and data security, despite official assurances of safety.
Russia Tightens Restrictions on Messaging App Calls
Russia is restricting secure communications by blocking end-to-end encrypted calls on WhatsApp and Telegram, citing security concerns, amidst broader efforts to control internet use. The article also covers various security incidents and measures, including accidental disclosures by ICE agents, alleged Russian hacking of a Norwegian dam, and increased facial recognition deployment in the UK.
US Airlines' Controversial Data Sales and Surcharge Practices
Major US airlines including Delta, American, and United sold passenger flight data through their owned broker ARC to government agencies like CBP and ICE, raising concerns over privacy and oversight as sensitive travel information is shared without clear legal safeguards.
US Moves to Curb Data Brokers' Sale of Sensitive Personal Information
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is proposing a rule to limit data brokers from selling sensitive personal and financial information, such as Social Security numbers, by classifying them as consumer reporting agencies under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). This move follows major data breaches and aims to protect consumer privacy by requiring explicit consent for data sharing. The rule targets private companies, not government operations, and is open for public comment until March 2025, though potential political changes could impact its implementation.
NSA Admits Buying Americans' Internet Browsing Records Without Warrant
The U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) is revealed to be purchasing Americans' internet browsing records from data brokers without a warrant, according to the agency's outgoing director. This practice raises concerns about privacy and civil liberties, as the NSA and other government agencies rely on commercially bought data for intelligence gathering and investigations. The legality of this practice is questioned, especially in light of recent enforcement actions by the Federal Trade Commission against data brokers. Senator Ron Wyden has called for stricter policies and transparency regarding the acquisition and use of commercially obtained data about Americans by U.S. spy agencies.
Foreign Governments Caught Spying on Apple and Google Users via Push Notifications
U.S. Senator Ron Wyden has warned that foreign governments are spying on smartphone users by compelling Apple and Google to provide push notification records. These records, which include information about app usage and unencrypted text displayed in notifications, can be accessed by governments, both foreign and domestic. Wyden called for transparency from Apple and Google regarding the legal demands they receive, particularly from foreign governments. Both companies have expressed a commitment to keeping users informed about requests for push notification records.
"Unveiling the Nightmare Scenario: A Terrifying Revelation"
This article discusses the nightmare scenario of a potential data breach, highlighting the importance of privacy and cybersecurity. It emphasizes the need to protect personal information and the potential consequences of a breach.