Smartphones That Help You Bust Out of the Android/iOS Ecosystem

December 15, 2023 at 08:17PM Smartphones have become a common part of daily life, but they also pose privacy risks by leaking personal information. Users seeking increased privacy can consider alternative phone options outside the Android-iOS duopoly. “De-Googled” phones emphasize security features, anti-tracking software, sandboxing, and hardware kill switches, providing an option to stay off … Read more

Google’s New Tracking Protection in Chrome Blocks Third-Party Cookies

December 15, 2023 at 02:54AM Google will start testing “Tracking Protection” from January 4, 2024, for 1% of Chrome users to restrict third-party cookies and cross-site tracking. Participants will be randomly selected and notified upon opening Chrome. This move aims to enhance privacy while still allowing relevant ads and measuring ad performance without using individual … Read more

Meta rolls out default end-to-end encryption on Messenger, Facebook

December 7, 2023 at 09:31AM Meta now offers default end-to-end encryption for all Messenger and Facebook chats and calls, providing enhanced security. Previously optional, this feature ensures only the communicating parties can read messages. New features like message editing and disappearing messages are also introduced, with group E2EE in testing for future deployment. Meeting Takeaways: … Read more

WhatsApp’s new Secret Code feature hides your locked chats

November 30, 2023 at 04:35PM WhatsApp’s new Secret Code feature allows users to protect their locked chats with a custom password, including emojis. The Locked Chats folder can be hidden or visible in the chat list, accessible by entering the secret code. This global rollout enhances privacy, adding to previous encryption and disappearing messages. **Takeaways … Read more

Data De-Identification: Balancing Privacy, Efficacy & Cybersecurity

November 28, 2023 at 04:50AM Data privacy laws aim to protect consumer data by implementing best practices for businesses. However, recent data breaches suggest that these regulations have not been successful in safeguarding consumer data. One reason is the need for companies to balance privacy protection, product efficacy, and cybersecurity. Data de-identification is a key … Read more

Data De-Identification: Balancing Privacy, Efficacy & Cybersecurity

November 27, 2023 at 10:04AM Global data privacy laws aim to protect consumer personal data, but recent data breaches highlight ongoing vulnerabilities. One potential reason for this is the delicate balance that companies must strike between protecting privacy, maintaining product efficacy, and mitigating cyber breaches. Data de-identification, a key safeguard measure, is necessary, but full … Read more

Ransomware-hit British Library: Too open for business, or not open enough?

November 27, 2023 at 04:38AM The British Library, known for its public knowledge and vast collection of items, recently fell victim to a cybersecurity breach. Ransomware bandits stole HR data and disrupted the institution’s infrastructure, causing inconvenience to researchers and delaying their work. The attack on the British Library is just one of many corporate … Read more

FCC adopts new rules to protect consumers from SIM-swapping attacks

November 18, 2023 at 10:32PM The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has introduced new rules to protect consumers from SIM swapping attacks and port-out fraud. These scams involve criminals taking control of a victim’s phone number to gain unauthorized access to personal accounts and sensitive information. The FCC’s updated regulations require wireless service providers to implement … Read more

Meta’s ad-free scheme dares you to buy your privacy back, one euro at a time

October 31, 2023 at 05:37AM From November, Meta will offer a paid subscription that allows users in the EU, EEA, or Switzerland to avoid ads and have their data protected. The monthly fee is €9.99/month on the web and €12.99/month on iOS and Android. Additional fees will apply for extra accounts. This move comes as … Read more

Biden’s Artificial Intelligence Executive Order Covers Broad Concerns

October 30, 2023 at 03:39PM President Joe Biden has issued an executive order establishing new standards for AI safety and security. Developers of advanced AIs and large language models will be required to share critical information with the US government. The order aims to prevent AI-engineered dangers, fraud, and deception, as well as protect privacy … Read more