Which AI chatbots pose the biggest privacy risks, and what data are they collecting and sharing?

A recent study revealed that all top ten AI chatbots on the Apple App Store collect user data, with 30% sharing it with third parties for advertising or measurement. Specific incidents include an AI chatbot named WotNot exposing 346,000 sensitive customer files and ChatGPT facing temporary bans over the use of personal data for model training without user consent. The advice is to treat chatbots like untrustworthy coworkers and avoid sharing sensitive personal information.

Why did Apple remove its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) feature in the UK?

Apple removed its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) feature, which provided end-to-end encryption for iCloud data, in the UK after the government ordered the company to build a backdoor for accessing user data. Apple chose to remove the feature entirely rather than compromise the security of its encryption. This action raises concerns about governments potentially outlawing strong encryption, which could reduce security for everyone and expose users to greater risks from surveillance and other bad actors.

What are VPN providers in France and Spain facing, and why are they considering leaving the French market?

In France, entertainment companies are pushing for legal action to force VPN providers to block access to pirate sites. In Spain, Cloudflare has been blocked on weekends after being accused of hosting pirate streaming sites. VPN providers argue that these demands are risky and could lead to security vulnerabilities and excessive blocking, compromising their core mission of providing legitimate privacy and security services.

What is California doing to enforce data privacy, and what measures should individuals take to protect their data?

California is taking a "radical" approach by actively enforcing its privacy laws through the California Privacy Protection Agency. This agency is tasked with investigating violations, issuing fines, and educating businesses about compliance. To protect your data, scrutinize app permissions, check browser extensions for suspicious activity, monitor location requests, be mindful of voice assistant settings, and disable unnecessary tracking features on wearables.

What issues are users experiencing with the latest Windows 11 update (KB5030310)?

The latest Windows 11 update, KB5030310, is causing various issues, including File Explorer freezing or crashing, vanishing icons, locked windows, and problems with multi-monitor setups. Some users have also reported silent or disappearing notifications.

What is the "Uber for armed guards" service, and why is it gaining traction?

Protector, an app providing on-demand armed security similar to Uber, is gaining traction in NYC and LA. Users can book armed guards, described as active or retired law enforcement and military, complete with a motorcade of Escalades.

What security vulnerability was discovered in MESH by Viscount access control systems, and what are the implications?

A significant vulnerability was discovered in MESH by Viscount access control systems due to unchanged default login credentials. This allows unauthorized individuals to access the systems remotely, view sensitive resident data (names, unit numbers, phone numbers), and manipulate building access controls, including unlocking doors and disabling access fobs.

What is "surveillance pricing," and what are states doing to combat it?

"Surveillance pricing" is a tactic where companies use personal data, such as browsing history and spending habits, to hike up prices for consumers. States are stepping up to ban or limit these practices to promote fairer prices and stronger privacy protections. Individuals can protect themselves by monitoring for unexplained price jumps, regularly clearing browsing data, disabling unnecessary tracking, and questioning excessive permission requests.