Security biz Verkada to pay $3m penalty under deal that also enforces infosec upgrade

September 5, 2024 at 12:37AM Verkada will pay $2.95 million to the US FTC following an investigation into their security failings, not related to past incidents but for spam violations. The company also faced allegations of security lapses, including unauthorized access to CCTV footage. The settlement includes requirements to improve security practices and compliance with … Read more

California Approves Privacy Bill Requiring Opt-Out Tools

September 4, 2024 at 06:23AM The California state legislature passed a bill requiring internet browsers and mobile operating systems to offer a mechanism for users to opt out of the sale or sharing of their personal information. The bill now awaits Governor Gavin Newsom’s signature. This will result in a standardized process for opt-out requests, … Read more

National Public Data Confirms Massive Breach

August 19, 2024 at 11:50AM National Public Data (NPD) confirmed a breach exposing personal data from millions of consumers in the US, UK, and Canada. The breach accessed extensive personal information, prompting concerns about identity theft. The incident highlights the need to move away from using social security numbers for identification and the limitations consumers … Read more

Smart Cars Share Driver Data, Prompting Calls for Federal Scrutiny

July 31, 2024 at 03:09PM Two US senators have urged the US Federal Trade Commission to investigate automakers’ sharing of driver data without consent, citing issues with data privacy and deceptive terms of service in smart cars. The letter emphasizes the potential security risks of connected vehicles and the lack of comprehensive data privacy regulations … Read more

Meta Given Deadline to Address E.U. Concerns Over ‘Pay or Consent’ Model

July 23, 2024 at 06:28AM Meta has been given until September 1, 2024, to address concerns from the European Commission regarding its “pay or consent” advertising model. The Commission warned of enforcement measures if not addressed, stating that this model may violate consumer protection laws. Similar actions have been taken against other tech companies like … Read more

Aura Partners With Mosaic Compliance Services to Launch a Program to Protect Auto Dealers and Buyers From Cybercrime

July 17, 2024 at 04:03PM Cybercrimes are increasingly targeting the auto industry, prompting the implementation of regulations like the Red Flags Rule to protect consumer data. Aura and Mosaic Compliance Services have partnered to provide identity theft protection to car buyers, helping dealers comply with regulations and earn trust from customers. Aura offers online safety … Read more

Scammers double-scam victims by offering to help recover from scams

July 9, 2024 at 02:08AM The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has cautioned about scammers targeting previous scam victims by offering fake recovery services. The scammers pose as trusted entities and request personal information and upfront fees. Victims, especially those over 65, have faced losses totaling over AU$2.9 million. The ACCC is urging prompt … Read more

Why Trading Privacy for ‘Free’ Web Services Must End

June 14, 2024 at 10:01AM Meta offering customers in the EU the choice between paying for privacy or consenting to tracking has sparked an investigation. Critics argue that this model violates privacy rights and coerces users. Users can protect themselves by using privacy-focused browsers, VPNs, and adjusting social media settings. Staying informed about consumer rights … Read more

Data Privacy in the Age of GenAI

May 31, 2024 at 10:07AM The American Privacy Rights Act of 2024 (APRA) is a comprehensive national legislation aiming to hold organizations accountable for privacy. It includes requirements like CEO-signed compliance certification, biennial audits, and publishing privacy policies. However, concerns remain about transparency, ethics, and the impact of GenAI models, indicating the need for further … Read more

FCC Warns of ‘Royal Tiger’ Robocall Scammers

May 14, 2024 at 06:54AM The FCC has alerted about a robocall scammer group, Royal Tiger, targeting US consumers in various fraudulent campaigns. The group, led by Prince Jashvantlal Anand and Kaushal Bhavsar, has entities in India, US, UK, and UAE, engaging in illegal robocalls impersonating banks and government agencies. The FCC and FTC have … Read more