Google Messages is rolling out new features and redesigns, including enhanced group chat mentions, MLS encryption support, a redesigned read receipt system, camera and link preview updates, and new options for leaving unknown group chats, with features gradually expanding to users.
OpenZFS 2.4 has been released, bringing faster encryption with AVX2, support for the latest Linux kernels, new features like default quotas, direct I/O fallback, unified allocation throttling, and various improvements to enhance the open-source ZFS file system on FreeBSD and Linux.
Microsoft has revealed a new side-channel attack called Whisper Leak that can infer the topics of encrypted AI chat traffic by analyzing packet size and timing, posing privacy risks. The attack can identify sensitive conversation topics despite encryption, and mitigation strategies like adding random text to responses are recommended. This highlights vulnerabilities in current language models and the need for enhanced security measures.
The European Union-backed ChatControl proposal, which aimed to create a mandatory backdoor in online communications for child protection, has been abandoned after significant opposition, notably from Germany, due to privacy and security concerns and doubts about its effectiveness against criminal activity.
While browser password managers like Chrome and Safari have improved security and encryption, they still pose inherent risks by consolidating sensitive data in one place, making them less secure than dedicated third-party password managers. Using a browser's password manager is better than reusing passwords or storing them insecurely, but for enhanced security, especially against targeted attacks, third-party solutions with additional features are recommended.
In 2024, researchers successfully teleported a quantum state of light over 30 kilometers of fiber optic cable amid internet traffic, marking a significant step toward integrating quantum communication with existing internet infrastructure, enabling secure and advanced quantum networks.
Google Messages has introduced two new safety features: Android Key Verifier, which uses QR codes to verify end-to-end encrypted messages and prevent impersonation, and spam link detection that blocks potentially harmful websites in spam texts, enhancing user security globally.
The UK government has issued a new order to Apple to create a back door for accessing British users' personal data, replacing a previous mandate, amid ongoing debates over encryption and privacy. Apple opposes such back doors, citing security risks, and has taken legal action, highlighting the broader global tension between security and privacy. Despite these issues, Apple is rated as a moderate buy with a target price of $251.24.
The UK government is attempting to access encrypted iCloud data by requesting Apple to create a backdoor, raising privacy concerns and marking a second such effort after previous negotiations failed. Apple opposes the move, emphasizing its commitment to user privacy and end-to-end encryption.
Security researchers have identified a vulnerability in Tile's tracking devices where lack of encryption and weak security measures could allow stalkers to track victims and intercept data, raising privacy concerns despite Tile's recent improvements. The flaw involves the anti-theft mode and unencrypted data transmission, making it easier for bad actors to link MAC addresses to specific devices, undermining user safety and privacy.
Originally Published 3 months ago — by Hacker News
The article discusses the EU's efforts to implement legislation like ChatControl that could compromise privacy and encryption, the resistance from tech communities, and the broader implications for civil liberties and law enforcement effectiveness, highlighting concerns over government overreach and the challenges of combating crime without infringing on privacy.
US immigration agencies have gained access to Paragon Solutions' spyware, Graphite, a powerful tool capable of hacking into phones and encrypted apps, raising concerns over privacy and civil liberties amid ongoing debates about government surveillance and human rights.
The UK government has withdrawn its demand for Apple to create a backdoor to access encrypted user data after pressure from the Trump administration, preserving user privacy and security standards.
The UK has reportedly withdrawn its demand for Apple to provide backdoor access to encrypted user data, aligning with US officials who confirmed the UK dropped the controversial request. Apple had previously refused to create a backdoor, citing security and privacy concerns, and had taken legal steps to challenge the UK's order. Privacy advocates welcomed the decision, emphasizing the risks of undermining encryption, while the UK government remains silent on formal communications. The incident highlights ongoing tensions between security demands and privacy rights.