Russia blocks Viber in latest attempt to censor communications

December 13, 2024 at 01:17PM Russian telecom authority Roskomnadzor has blocked the Viber app for violating local laws, citing concerns over terrorism, drug sales, and illegal content. This follows a court ruling and ongoing restrictions on various foreign messaging apps. Viber had over 1 billion downloads on Android before the ban. ### Meeting Takeaways 1. … Read more

New Android spyware found on phone seized by Russian FSB

December 5, 2024 at 12:18PM Russian programmer Kirill Parubets was detained by the FSB and found spyware installed on his phone after it was returned. Citizen Lab confirmed the malware impersonates a popular app and offers extensive permissions. The spyware appears related to the Monokle variant, with enhanced features for surveillance and data extraction. ### … Read more

Telco security is a dumpster fire and everyone’s getting burned

December 2, 2024 at 04:39AM Chinese state hackers have deeply infiltrated US telecommunications, raising serious cybersecurity concerns. The lack of end-to-end encryption and inadequate oversight have left telcos vulnerable. Improved regulations and transparency are crucial for enhancing security and addressing the dangers posed by foreign adversaries, but political will is necessary for meaningful change. ### … Read more

My Car Knows My Secrets, and I’m (Mostly) OK With That

November 22, 2024 at 04:38PM The text discusses the privacy concerns associated with Internet-connected cars, highlighting how data collection can be both beneficial for safety and a potential invasion of privacy. It emphasizes the need for transparency, accountability, and stricter regulations to protect personal data, while balancing the desire for convenience in modern life. ### … Read more

Gmail’s New Shielded Email Feature Lets Users Create Aliases for Email Privacy

November 18, 2024 at 07:03AM Google is developing a feature called Shielded Email that enables users to create unique email aliases for online sign-ups, enhancing privacy and reducing spam. This follows similar features from Apple and others. Additionally, Google has launched the Android System Key Verifier for improved security in messaging through encryption keys. ### … Read more

AP Sources: Chinese Hackers Targeted Phones of Trump, Vance, People Associated With Harris Campaign

October 28, 2024 at 07:17AM Chinese hackers conducted an espionage operation targeting the cellphones of Donald Trump, JD Vance, and individuals associated with Kamala Harris’s campaign, highlighting concerns over cybersecurity and political privacy. **Meeting Takeaways:** 1. **Main Event:** Chinese hackers are involved in an extensive espionage operation. 2. **Targets:** – High-profile individuals targeted include: – … Read more

Irish Watchdog Imposes Record €310 Million Fine on LinkedIn for GDPR Violations

October 25, 2024 at 02:20AM The Irish Data Protection Commission fined LinkedIn €310 million for violating user privacy through improper behavioral analysis for targeted advertising, lacking users’ explicit consent. This decision, linked to GDPR principles, mandates compliance within three months. Additionally, privacy group noyb has filed a complaint against Pinterest for similar consent violations. ### … Read more

Rising Tides: Christien “DilDog” Rioux on Building Privacy and What Makes Hackers Unique

October 18, 2024 at 07:02AM Christien “DilDog” Rioux, co-founder of Veracode and Veilid Foundation, addresses the importance of accessible privacy as a human rights issue and explores the unique attributes of hackers in his discussion. **Meeting Takeaways:** 1. **Main Topic**: Discussion centered on the intersection of privacy and human rights, emphasizing the importance of accessible … Read more

Casio confirms customer data stolen in a ransomware attack

October 11, 2024 at 10:47AM Casio confirmed a ransomware attack that compromised personal and confidential data of employees, job candidates, and customers. The Underground group claimed responsibility and leaked documents. Casio stated that no credit card information was stolen and urged caution against sharing leaked data. Authorities are investigating the incident. **Meeting Takeaways: Casio Ransomware … Read more

Ukraine arrests rogue VPN operator providing access to Runet

October 10, 2024 at 06:18PM Ukraine’s cyber police arrested a 28-year-old for operating an illegal VPN service that enabled access to the Russian internet (Runet), violating national security laws. The service facilitated significant network traffic and could lead to a 15-year prison sentence. Police seized equipment and are investigating possible accomplices and Russian connections. ### … Read more