In Spain, a judge from the Audiencia Nacional, Santiago Pedraz, ordered the suspension of Telegram following a lawsuit from Spanish media companies over unauthorized use of copyrighted content. The decision, which affected over 8.5 million Spanish users and raised concerns among privacy and freedom of expression advocates, was short-lived. Within 48 hours, Judge Pedraz planned to revoke his decision pending a national police report on Telegram's features and the impact of its suspension on users. Security expert Rafel López noted that Telegram has measures to prevent national operators from blocking its service, such as proxy services.

With the new year and return to work after the holidays, many are experiencing a sluggish January. The article suggests being self-compassionate, reflecting on work goals, preparing the night before, setting realistic expectations, aiming for small victories, working at optimal times, and not neglecting personal interests. Experts from Columbia University Medical Center, Cornell's School of Industrial and Labor Relations, and Duke University provide advice to help individuals feel more energetic and focused at work.

In the digital age, maintaining online anonymity is challenging but achievable with the right measures. The article provides practical advice on blocking trackers, using privacy-focused browsers like Tor, and employing tools such as VPNs and encrypted communication services. It emphasizes the importance of choosing services that respect user privacy and offers tips on minimizing personal data exposure online. Advanced strategies for heightened security, such as using privacy-centric operating systems and anonymizing email addresses, are also discussed.

Meta faces scrutiny in Europe as the digital rights organization Noyb highlights the company's attempt to circumvent EU privacy laws by making it difficult for users to withdraw consent for advertising tracking. Currently, Meta requires users who do not want to be tracked to subscribe to a monthly service, costing up to 251.88 euros per year. Noyb's complaint, filed with the Austrian data protection authority, points out that this practice violates GDPR Article 7, which demands that withdrawing consent should be as easy as giving it. The potential GDPR penalties could reach up to 4% of Meta's annual global turnover, posing a significant financial risk. However, Meta's primary concern is the possibility of being forced to allow users to deny tracking, which could significantly impact its advertising revenue from EU users.

YouTube is introducing new features that provide users with emergency first aid videos, such as how to perform the Heimlich maneuver or identify the signs of a heart attack. Currently available only in the US in English and Spanish, these videos are expected to be released globally in more languages. Health authorities recommend contacting emergency services before turning to YouTube for first aid guidance. YouTube has also partnered with the American Heart Association to offer a course on hands-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation, furthering its efforts to promote reliable health information after removing misinformation content last year.

A Chinese government-supported research institute has developed a technique to crack the encrypted registry of an iPhone, gaining access to phone numbers, email addresses, and device names of AirDrop users. This move follows the use of AirDrop in China to circumvent government censorship, notably during pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong and against Xi Jinping's policies. Apple's iOS 16.1.1 update, which restricted AirDrop functionality to iPhones sold in China, raised suspicions. The Beijing judiciary office claims the technique improves case resolution efficiency and prevents the spread of inappropriate comments and potential bad influences.

Jeff Bezos has invested millions of dollars in Perplexity AI, a startup aiming to revolutionize online search by providing AI-generated answers instead of a list of links. The founder, Aravind Srinivas, believes this will make Google seem outdated. Perplexity AI, which uses large language models from OpenAI and Anthropic, has received significant financial support from industry experts like Bezos and Nvidia, with a recent funding round of $76 million. The startup has gained traction, with about 10 million people using it monthly, indicating a potential shift in how people access information online.

An iPhone fell from a Boeing 737 Max 9 of Alaska Airlines at an altitude of nearly 5,000 meters and remained intact. Game designer Seanathan Bates found the device, which was in airplane mode and unlocked, allowing him to access an email from the owner related to Alaska flight 1282. This is reportedly the second passenger iPhone to survive a fall from the plane, suggesting not just luck but also engineering. No details on the protective case that might have contributed to the phone's survival have been confirmed.

Authorities in Punjab, India, have identified 107 drones used by Pakistani traffickers to transport heroin across the border in 2023. Similarly, Syrian smugglers have increased drone usage to move 'Captagon' into Jordan, and Mexican cartels use drones to carry drugs into the United States. In Spain, police seized a large drone used by French smugglers to transport drugs from Morocco. Drones are becoming increasingly favored by traffickers for their precision, safety, and reliability, especially for small-scale operations, although advancements in technology may also benefit larger cartels.

Adam Mosseri, the head of Instagram, has apologized for the proliferation of low-quality content on Threads, including fake engagement announcements, hate speech, and fake photos. Users have been using rage farming to gain followers on the new, not very populated social platform, leading to a rapid increase in low-quality content. Mosseri announced that his team is working to resolve the issue, with a Meta spokesperson confirming that measures are being taken to address repetitive and low-quality content that users may not be interested in.

Twitch has changed its nudity policies for the third time in a month, reflecting confusion in managing adult content. In mid-December, Twitch allowed artistic nudity and content highlighting breasts, buttocks, or the pelvic region, labeled appropriately. However, it reversed this decision days later, banning real or fictional nudity representations, responding to community concerns. Twitch's latest policy, announced by Vice President Angela Hession, prohibits streamers from being fully or partially nude, including covering breasts or genitals with objects or censorship bars, addressing the rise of 'black bar' content where streamers circumvent nudity rules.

The Dutch government has ordered ASML to limit the export of its chip production equipment to China, following increased pressure from the United States. ASML announced the partial revocation of its export license for specific lithography systems, which will affect a small number of Chinese customers. The Chinese government has criticized these restrictions, calling them 'hegemonic' and 'bullying,' and urged the Netherlands to protect mutual business interests. Despite the restrictions, ASML stated that its financial outlook for 2024 remains unaffected.

The New York Times has filed a lawsuit against Microsoft and OpenAI for copyright infringement, claiming they trained their AI models using millions of the newspaper's articles without permission. The lawsuit argues that the language models powering ChatGPT and Copilot can generate outputs that replicate or summarize the content of The Times, potentially luring away readers and impacting the newspaper's revenue from subscriptions, licenses, advertising, and affiliate earnings. OpenAI responded with surprise to the lawsuit, expressing a willingness to collaborate and respect content creators' rights. The New York Times is seeking legal and actual damages in the billions and aims to prevent the use of its articles in AI model training and to remove its editors' work from the companies' datasets.

Gallery Systems, a leading provider of software solutions for gallery and museum collection management, suffered a ransomware attack, causing significant disruptions. The attack affected major international museums like MoMA, Museum of Pop Culture, Barnes Foundation, and San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, leaving their online collections inaccessible. Gallery Systems is working to restore access and has notified authorities, but no ransomware group has claimed responsibility yet.

The Basilica of St. Peter now has a digital twin, a 3D replica created to monitor the progress of restoration work ahead of the 2025 Jubilee celebrations. This digital twin, developed by Italferr, an engineering company under Ferrovie dello Stato, was commissioned by the Fabbrica di San Pietro. The project involved advanced technologies like drones, laser scanners, and georadars, resulting in over 3.1 terabytes of data. Despite challenges posed by the basilica's historical significance and constant tourist presence, researchers successfully gathered accurate measurements using innovative methods, including nighttime balloon flights inside the basilica.

A study by the Stanford Internet Observatory revealed that the LAION-5B dataset, used by AI tools like Stable Diffusion, contains 1008 instances of child pornography. LAION, the non-profit organization behind the dataset, has a zero-tolerance policy for illegal content and is removing the incriminated data. However, experts remain concerned as reports indicate that LAION's leaders were aware of the issue since 2021. The dataset has also been used to train other models like Google's Imagen, which found inappropriate content in the LAION-400M dataset. Google stated that this dataset was only used for the first version of Imagen, which was never released publicly.

Insomniac Games suffered a ransomware attack by the cybercriminal group Rhysida, resulting in the leak of 1.67 terabytes of data including gameplay footage of the upcoming Wolverine game. The attack was claimed on December 12, with a ransom demand of 50 bitcoins and a seven-day payment deadline. After no response from Insomniac, Rhysida released over 1.3 million files, revealing details of unannounced Insomniac and Sony games, internal presentations, and financial documents. The leak suggests a Wolverine trilogy and other titles in development. Sony, the owner of Insomniac Games, has not commented on the leak.

TikTok has granted a special status to certain high-profile accounts, encouraging moderators to be more lenient with their content. Internal documents reveal that moderators in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa are instructed to be more permissive towards users marked with tags indicating elevated status, such as 'super account' and 'top creator.' Notable figures like Russell Brand and Sam Smith are among those given this special status. Despite evidence from The Guardian, TikTok maintains that its community guidelines apply equally to all users. This is not the first time TikTok has been accused of preferential treatment, as a Forbes investigation last year revealed a similar two-tier moderation system.

A photo of a retro computer shared by a user named Dexter on X went viral, evoking nostalgia among millennials for the early 2000s when internet access was limited to a single desktop. The post garnered over 350,000 likes and numerous comments reminiscing about the era. The sentiment extended to TikTok, where creator @somefrogs.co reflected on the changes in internet usage over the past 20 years. The viral content sparked discussions on the need for digital detoxification, though a study by the University of Durham highlighted potential negative effects of such practices.

Jessica Yang and Robert Compagnon, owners of the Folderol wine bar in Paris, have banned TikTokers from their establishment. The bar gained massive popularity on TikTok after singer Dua Lipa mentioned it as one of her favorite spots in Paris, leading to an influx of TikTok creators. This surge in popularity caused disturbances, complaints from neighbors, and frequent police interventions. To retain their loyal customers, the owners decided to implement changes, including hiring a bouncer to keep TikTokers away. The decision has sparked public complaints from TikTok creators.

ByteDance faced a suspension of its account by OpenAI after a report by The Verge revealed the Chinese giant was using OpenAI's technology to develop its own large language model (LLM), violating OpenAI's terms of service. Despite being aware of the restrictions, ByteDance relied on OpenAI's API for every stage of its 'Project Seed' model development, including training and evaluation. Internal communications suggested employees knew about the misuse and discussed data desensitization to hide evidence. The suspension occurred after Chinese regulators approved ByteDance's chatbot Doubao, and the company had instructed employees to cease using OpenAI's API for LLM development, although it was still used for performance evaluation. OpenAI's spokesperson Niko Felix stated that ByteDance's API use was minimal but the account was suspended pending further investigation, with potential demands for changes or account closure if non-compliance was found.

The National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) of India has been targeted by the ransomware gang Lockbit, which has threatened to release stolen data unless a ransom is paid by December 18, 2023. Lockbit has already leaked some data to prove their infiltration, causing significant concern among Indian security professionals. The official NAL website has been inaccessible since the attack. Lockbit, believed to originate from Russia or nearby former Soviet states, has been involved in numerous high-profile cyberattacks, including recent ones on the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, Royal Mail, Tsmc, and Granules India.

In Poland, railway company Newag enlisted the help of three hackers from the group Dragon Sector to repair software on four broken trains. After the issue was resolved, Newag threatened to sue the hackers for illegal activity. The hackers claimed that Newag had deliberately designed the software to malfunction if repaired by an independent third-party company. Newag inserted code into the Impuls train control systems that prevented operation if a GPS locator detected the train had spent a certain number of days at an independent repair company's maintenance center, or if some components were replaced without a manufacturer-approved serial number. This became an issue when the Lower Silesian Railways purchased 11 Impuls trains and entrusted their maintenance to Serwis Pojazdów Szynowych (SPS). After SPS employees encountered mysterious errors, they sought help from Dragon Sector, who discovered an unlock code that allowed the trains to operate again. Newag has since accused the hackers of defamation and expressed concern about the spread of news regarding the intentional fault.

Snapchat has introduced a new feature that allows users to generate images using AI to share with friends, exclusively available to Snapchat Plus subscribers. The feature can be accessed from the camera interface's toolbar. Snapchat has also introduced a photo editing feature to extend the background of a picture and a collaborative image creation feature called Dreams for subscribers. Additionally, Snapchat Plus subscriptions can now be purchased on Amazon in the United States, making them available as Christmas gifts.

Google has announced significant updates to Google Maps, focusing on enhancing user privacy and data control. The location history will no longer be stored on Google's servers but directly on users' devices, with an option for cloud backup. The default period for automatic deletion of location history is reduced from 18 to 3 months. Users can now delete all data related to a specific location directly within the app, offering a more secure and intuitive data management experience.

Cybercriminals have been scamming content creators and Facebook Page owners by posing as podcast hosts, tricking them into handing over sensitive information. Victims were invited to participate in a Facebook Live, during which they were duped into managing dataset settings, inadvertently generating URLs that allowed the scammers to gain access to their accounts and take over their Facebook Pages. The scammers would then publish content with fake links leading to ads, earning them hundreds of dollars. They also blocked words to prevent warnings about the scam from being posted. Facebook's customer service has been criticized for only suggesting two-factor authentication as a solution, with victims needing external professional help to regain control of their accounts. The scam has led to creators losing their activity history, a drastic reduction in followers, and significant financial losses.

The article discusses the prevalence of disinformation, especially in the context of the Israel-Hamas conflict, and offers four strategies to avoid falling for fake news. It emphasizes the importance of verifying sources, checking the context of information, identifying patterns in fake news, and conducting independent research using reliable fact-checking services like Snopes, FactCheck.org, and Reuters. The article underscores the role of skepticism and critical thinking in navigating the digital information landscape.

Cybersecurity experts warn fans of the highly anticipated video game Grand Theft Auto 6 against potential scams and cyberattacks following the release of its official trailer. With the gaming community eager for a preview, cybercriminals are exploiting this impatience by offering fake download links that could infect devices with malware aimed at stealing personal data, banking credentials, or identity. Marijus Briedis, CTO of NordVPN, advises avoiding any free or trial versions of the game, as the official release is not expected until 2025.

Defense leaders from the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia, during a meeting in Mountain View, announced plans to experiment with artificial intelligence to track Chinese submarines in the Pacific. This initiative is part of the Aukus Pillar II security agreement established in 2021 to support peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. AI will be integrated into patrol aircraft systems, including the US P-8A Poseidon, to process information from underwater detection devices more quickly. The AI and machine learning algorithms will also enhance force protection, precision targeting, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance. The announcement follows a recent incident where Australian navy divers were injured by a Chinese warship, highlighting the growing aggressiveness of China in the Pacific according to Australian Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles.

Spotify Wrapped has become a popular trend, but some users have reported issues with their personal rankings being dominated by an artist they never listened to, Lil Durk. This issue appears to be linked to a cyber attack campaign from last May, coinciding with the release of Lil Durk's eighth album, Almost Healed. Users have expressed frustration over the persistent presence of Lil Durk's music on their profiles despite changing passwords and logging out of all devices.

X, formerly known as Twitter, has lost 71.5% of its value since Elon Musk acquired it in October 2022. The decline is attributed to Musk's forced acquisition, mass layoffs, rebranding, and contentious behavior towards advertisers. Fidelity reported a drastic drop in value, and major advertisers like Disney and IBM suspended their activities following Musk's controversial actions. Musk's public outbursts and accusations against advertisers have further damaged the company's financial standing.

Ukrainian intelligence, in collaboration with the country's Ministry of Defense, has successfully breached the systems of Rosaviatsiya, the Russian Federal Air Transport Agency, obtaining a large volume of confidential documents. These documents reportedly reveal that Russia's civil aviation sector is on the brink of collapse, with 185 aircraft incidents recorded since January 2023, many involving the Sukhoi Superjet. The incidents have tripled within a year due to maintenance issues exacerbated by Western sanctions on spare parts and software updates. Russia is attempting to outsource maintenance to Iran and resorting to 'aircraft cannibalism' to obtain spare parts. Moscow is also accused of concealing the extent of the aviation problems, endangering its residents.

The cyberattack on Federprivacy has escalated, with 15 gigabytes of stolen data now available for download on a public forum. Initially, the Alpha Team cybergang, which claimed responsibility for the mid-November breach, intended to sell the data but later decided against it, citing potential catastrophic impacts. However, on November 28, observers noted that Alpha Team reversed this decision, making the data freely accessible. Federprivacy's response included sending new passwords to members via email, a move criticized for its lack of security.

The Idaho National Laboratory, a key U.S. nuclear research center managed by the Department of Energy, was targeted by the hacktivist group SiegedSec. The attackers claimed to have accessed and leaked sensitive personal data of employees, including social security numbers and bank accounts, without negotiating a ransom. Although no nuclear research data was compromised, the incident raises significant security concerns and is expected to increase law enforcement scrutiny on SiegedSec. The laboratory plays a crucial role in national security, handling critical infrastructure defense, nuclear weapons management, and renewable technology development.

Commercial flights over the Middle East are increasingly targeted by spoofing cyberattacks, causing significant navigation issues. In late September, several flights near Iran experienced navigation failures due to falsified GPS signals. OpsGroup, an international group of pilots and flight technicians, identified Baghdad, Cairo, and Tel Aviv as hotspots for these attacks. The spoofing has compromised the Inertial Reference System (IRS), a critical backup for navigation, raising serious concerns among flight crews.

A structured scam on social media uses fake celebrity endorsements to promote a fraudulent investment platform called Immediate Momentum. The scam involves fake articles and sponsored posts on Facebook, misleading users with high-return promises on cryptocurrency investments. Celebrities like Alessia Marcuzzi are falsely presented as endorsers of the platform, with their images used without consent. The article advises users to verify news through established information portals and to be cautious of content shared on social media to avoid falling victim to such scams.

Amazon is planning to expand its marketplace to include car sales starting in 2024, beginning with a partnership with Hyundai. The South Korean automaker will integrate Amazon's virtual assistant, Alexa, into its vehicles, marking a significant collaboration aimed at transforming the automotive market. Initially targeting the U.S. market, there are also plans for future expansion into Europe. Additionally, Hyundai has signed a multi-year agreement to use Amazon's cloud services.

A hoax has been circulating on Facebook claiming that Meta will introduce a paid plan for its platforms, causing confusion among users. A viral message in poorly written Italian falsely asserts that users must pay $4.99 a month to continue using Facebook and protect their data and photos from the company. However, copying and pasting this message has no legal effect, as users agree to Facebook's Terms of Service upon account creation, and any platform changes must be approved in personal settings. The article emphasizes that Facebook will remain free unless users opt for a subscription to enjoy an ad-free experience.

Verona hospitals have been targeted by the ransomware gang Rhysida, which has demanded a ransom of 10 bitcoins (approximately 350,000 euros) for the stolen data. The gang has published samples of sensitive information on the dark web to pressure the hospital into paying the ransom by November 17. This attack is part of a broader trend of cyberattacks on Italian healthcare institutions, highlighting significant cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Authorities are urged to address these threats promptly to protect patient data and public health.

Nyan Cat, the 8-bit cat meme created by illustrator Chris Torres, has made a comeback after 12 years with a new video titled 'meow' expressing support for Palestine. The video features messages such as 'End the occupation' and 'Free Palestine', and has garnered over 49,000 views. It also includes links to organizations working in the Israeli-Palestinian region. Sara June, who has managed the Nyan Cat channel for over a decade, has used the meme's return to highlight the plight of Palestinians, with recent reports indicating 10,000 Palestinian deaths, including 4,000 children, prompting global protests for an immediate ceasefire from Israel.

Tokelau, a small archipelago in the South Pacific, known for its pristine nature, has also become the world's capital of cybercrime. Previously, around 25 million users owned websites registered with the .tk national domain, but in reality, there was only one actual website registered on the island: Teletok's page, the sole telecom operator. The .tk addresses were once offered for free, which attracted spammers, phishers, and other cybercriminals to create fake websites for malicious activities like data harvesting and malware distribution. Tokelau's online reputation began with the assignment of a domain by ICANN in the late 1990s. Lacking funds and expertise, Tokelau outsourced the management to Dutch entrepreneur Joost Zuurbier, who connected Tokelau to the internet and offered free websites with ads. However, this led to misuse for pornography, extremism, and espionage, conflicting with Tokelau's culture and Christianity. International courts eventually halted Zuurbier's company's activities. Tokelau now aims to rebuild its reputation and use the .tk domain to promote its nation.

Ruwiki, the Russian version of Wikipedia, is set to launch widely after six months of testing. The platform has already attracted significant user interest, with concerns about its potential use for government propaganda and censorship. The Russian government, under Putin's approval, supports Ruwiki, raising fears among security experts about the manipulation of accessible information. The official launch will reveal its impact on Russian cyberspace and global information.

Since the conflict between Israel and Hamas began on October 7, the number of honeypots connected to the internet in Israel has surged. Honeypots, which are decoy systems used to attract cyberattacks, help cybersecurity experts gather information on cybercriminals. Israel's focus on cybersecurity has made it one of the top three countries globally in terms of honeypot deployment. The increase in honeypots is part of Israel's strategy to monitor and counteract cybercriminal activities, drawing lessons from the cyber aspects of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

ChatGPT experienced significant downtime due to a DDoS attack, which was later claimed by the cyber gang Anonymous Sudan. The attack utilized Layer 7 DDoS techniques, overwhelming the system with traffic and causing service interruptions. OpenAI initially attributed the issues to high demand but later confirmed the DDoS attack. Anonymous Sudan has a history of using such tactics, previously targeting Microsoft services. The motivation behind the attack remains unclear, though it may be linked to ongoing cyber conflicts.

The U.S. Department of Justice announced that the FBI successfully disrupted the criminal activities of the ransomware gang ALPHV/BlackCat by infiltrating their servers and seizing decryption keys, allowing over 500 victims to restore their systems. The FBI also seized the group's onion site domain. However, the gang claimed to have regained control of their site and stated that the FBI only obtained decryption keys for 400 companies, leaving over 3000 victims' data still in their possession. The gang has removed restrictions on their affiliates, allowing them to target any organization, including critical infrastructure, except for countries in the Commonwealth of Independent States.

Federprivacy, an association of data protection professionals, has been targeted by the cybercriminal group Alpha Team. The group's website and social media accounts, including the LinkedIn profile of its president Nicola Bernardi, were compromised. The hackers, led by Z0RG, exploited vulnerabilities in Federprivacy's systems, gaining access to a significant amount of data. They have indicated a desire to use this data for extortion rather than public disclosure. The incident highlights the irony of a data protection organization failing to secure its own data.

Amazon has announced the launch of Titan Image Generator, an AI model capable of generating and modifying images based on complex text prompts. This tool, available to all Amazon Web Services customers, aims to ensure accuracy and minimize errors in the image creation process. It can also add or remove details in existing images and will include an invisible watermark to prevent misuse. Additionally, Titan can generate descriptions or relevant text for social media posts. This announcement was made during the AWS re:Invent conference, where Amazon also introduced Q, an AI chatbot for businesses, signaling the company's commitment to advancing in the AI sector.

Starting January 4, 2024, Google will disable cookies for 1% of Chrome users, approximately 30 million people, as part of its Privacy Sandbox project aimed at replacing cookies with a more privacy-respecting tracking system. This initiative will allow Chrome to monitor user activity online and categorize users for personalized ads without revealing their identity. Victor Wong, Google's senior director of product management for Privacy Sandbox, emphasized the mission to keep user activity private while maintaining an open internet. Users in the selected 1% will see a 'Tracking Protection' notification and a small eye logo confirming the removal of cookies from their browser.

Researchers from Google Deepmind and several prestigious U.S. universities discovered that ChatGpt, by repeating random words, revealed personal information such as email addresses and phone numbers. This vulnerability highlights the need for rigorous internal and external testing of language models before their final release. OpenAI has reportedly fixed the issue, but further tests by Engadget still managed to extract personal data.

Google Assistant is set to lose 17 features deemed 'underutilized' by the company, including voice commands for sending emails, videos, and audio messages, as well as integration with the Calm app. These changes, effective from January 26, aim to provide a more consistent user experience despite recent staff cuts. Google acknowledges potential user disruption and encourages feedback to guide future improvements.

Google has announced the opening of a new Safety Engineering Center in Malaga, Spain, aimed at enhancing cybersecurity. This center, the third in Europe after Dublin and Munich, will collaborate with government authorities, academic institutions, businesses, and professionals to develop solutions against cyber threats. It will also focus on training future cybersecurity experts, with Google committing $10 million to promote cybersecurity education in European universities. Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google and Alphabet, emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships in combating cyber threats and supporting research and development of advanced tools, including AI-based solutions.

LinkedIn is developing a new vertical video feed similar to TikTok, aiming to increase user engagement by leveraging a familiar format. This feature, currently in testing, is designed to promote professional and career-related videos, reflecting a trend where content creators focus on work and recruiting topics. The new feed is expected to help users discover new content and enhance their presence on the platform.

YouTube has updated its content guidelines for advertisements, allowing creators to monetize previously restricted content such as breastfeeding scenes with a visible areola and non-explicit dance performances like twerking. This significant change reflects YouTube's efforts to address criticisms regarding its treatment of women and LGBTQ+ community members. Despite retaining some limitations, the platform's commitment to updating its policies is evident, as highlighted by Conor Kavanagh, the head of monetization policies.

Telegram has introduced a new peer-to-peer login feature that offers users a free premium subscription in exchange for using their phone numbers to relay one-time passwords (OTPs) to other users. This feature, currently being tested on Android users in select countries, has raised significant privacy and security concerns. The terms of service indicate that participants' phone numbers will be visible to recipients, including potential fraudsters and criminals, and Telegram disclaims any responsibility for adverse consequences. The article questions whether users will be willing to trade their security for a premium subscription.

Extremist groups are increasingly using generative AI to spread propaganda, raising concerns among experts about the potential to undermine efforts by tech giants to keep extremism off the internet. Tech Against Terrorism's Adam Hadley highlights the significant risk posed by AI-generated content, particularly from groups like Hezbollah and Hamas. The organization is collaborating with Microsoft to develop AI-based detection systems to counter these threats. The article also notes the broader issue of AI-generated harmful content, including child exploitation material, as reported by the Internet Watch Foundation.

In recent days, iOS users in the United States have been targeted by sophisticated phishing attacks exploiting a bug in the Apple ID password reset function. Victims receive numerous system notifications prompting them to reset their Apple ID password, followed by phone calls from scammers posing as Apple support. Entrepreneur Parth Patel shared his experience of being inundated with notifications and contacted by a fake Apple support operator. The attackers may be exploiting a bug or using stolen email addresses and phone numbers to initiate password reset requests. Users worldwide, including in Italy, are advised to be cautious of such notifications.

Eat Just, a California-based company known for its vegan egg alternatives and lab-grown meat, is facing significant financial difficulties. Investigations reveal chronic issues with paying suppliers, leading to multiple lawsuits. The company's ambitious projects, such as building large bioreactors for cultivated meat, have exacerbated its financial woes. Former employees describe a culture of financial mismanagement, driven by a desire to be industry leaders. Despite selling its vegan egg product, Just Egg, in the U.S. and Canada, the company struggles to turn a profit. CEO Josh Tetrick acknowledges the challenges and aims to stabilize the company's finances by the end of 2024.

Google has enhanced its AI chatbot Bard to analyze YouTube videos and extract specific information for users, allowing them to bypass watching the entire video. This feature, currently available as a Labs experience, aims to provide detailed information such as recipe ingredients. However, it still requires improvements to be fully functional. The update follows YouTube's recent integration of generative AI to answer user questions about video content. While this development benefits users by saving time and avoiding ads, it raises concerns about the future role of YouTube creators.

Burger King has launched a marketing campaign in Brazil called 'Hangover Whopper,' using facial recognition technology to offer discounts to customers. The campaign, running until January 2, 2024, scans customers' faces to assess their hangover levels and provide discount coupons. While the campaign is a marketing gimmick, it raises concerns about the widespread use of facial recognition technology and privacy issues. The Federal Trade Commission in the United States recently banned Rite Aid from using facial recognition for surveillance, highlighting the ongoing debate over the technology's ethical implications.

VF Corporation, the American giant owning brands like The North Face, Vans, Supreme, and Timberland, has been hit by a cyberattack causing operational disruptions that could jeopardize holiday shopping. Unauthorized access to the company's IT systems was first noticed on December 13, leading to encrypted company computers and compromised sensitive data. The attack has significantly impacted VF Corporation's ability to fulfill orders, posing a serious issue during the holiday season.

The United States is advancing its regulation of artificial intelligence by requiring all federal agencies to appoint a senior AI officer to ensure the safe use of the technology. Vice President Kamala Harris announced the new guidelines from the Office of Management and Budget, which include annual reports from agencies on their AI systems and associated risks. The initiative aims to regulate AI use for maximum safety, with agencies required to cease using risky AI systems unless justified otherwise. The Biden administration plans to hire 100 AI professionals by summer to support this effort.

Twitch has announced an update to its adult content policy, allowing the sharing of previously banned videos if they are labeled appropriately. The platform, which has been strict about sexual content, is now taking a different direction by permitting content that highlights certain body parts, provided it is marked with a content classification label. However, pornography and sexual games remain prohibited. The update aims to give streamers more freedom while maintaining user safety and integrity. Content labeled with themes like drugs, violence, gambling, or sexuality will not appear on the homepage recommendations but can be accessed through the creator's profile or relevant category.

Elon Musk has reinstated Alex Jones, a conspiracy theorist banned from Twitter in 2018, on the platform now known as X. This decision followed a public poll where 70% of nearly 2 million participants supported Jones's return. The move has sparked mixed reactions, with some praising it as a victory for free speech and others expressing concern over Jones's history of spreading false information, particularly about the Sandy Hook school shooting. Jones and his outlet Infowars have been known for promoting various conspiracy theories and fake products. Musk's decision is seen as a commitment to free speech, despite potential backlash from advertisers.

Google is developing 'Project Ellmann,' an AI feature that provides users with a comprehensive snapshot of their lives by analyzing search results and photos. Powered by the new Gemini language model, the AI can summarize life into chapters, allowing users to relive significant moments. The project aims to compete with Apple's Memories tool and better understand users to offer a truthful narrative of their lives. Ellmann Chat, a chatbot integrated into the project, can answer any questions about the user's life. Google emphasizes user privacy and security, indicating that the feature will take time to perfect before release.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has warned about the dangers of scanning old QR Codes, which could contain malicious links used by scammers to steal sensitive information. The FTC highlighted various tactics used by scammers to trick users into scanning these codes, such as fake delivery notifications or suspicious account activity alerts. Victims are often redirected to counterfeit websites where they are deceived into providing personal information. The FTC has also provided several tips to avoid falling victim to these scams, including not scanning unexpected QR Codes, keeping devices updated, using strong passwords, and enabling multi-factor authentication for sensitive accounts.

In 2016, Facebook initiated a project named 'Ghostbuster' to spy on user traffic on Snapchat, aiming to better compete with the rival social media platform. The project was part of a broader program called In-App Action Panel (IAPP), which used advanced technology to intercept and decrypt encrypted traffic from competitors like Snapchat, YouTube, and Amazon. Internal emails from Mark Zuckerberg revealed the company's intent to gain reliable analytics on Snapchat's rapid growth. The project involved using Onavo, a VPN-like service acquired by Facebook in 2013, to develop a kit for iOS and Android that could read encrypted traffic. The approach raised significant privacy concerns within Facebook and led to legal actions against the company for exploiting user data to identify and undermine competitors.

Tencent has introduced Weixin Palm Payment, a biometric system allowing users to perform actions like shopping and opening doors by scanning their palm. Available only in mainland China, this technology aims to simplify daily tasks by eliminating the need for physical items like keys and wallets. While the system offers convenience, it raises significant privacy and security concerns, as constant monitoring and data collection could attract cybercriminals. Similar technologies by Amazon and Fujitsu are also mentioned, highlighting the growing trend of palm scanning for secure transactions.

Facebook has introduced a new feature called 'Link History' that archives all links clicked from the mobile app. This feature, enabled by default, can be disabled by users. The data collected is used to optimize advertising campaigns, raising privacy concerns among experts. Despite Facebook's presentation of the feature as a convenience, it is seen as another tracking tool. The feature applies only to the Facebook app, not accessible via computer or mobile browser, and adds to existing data management settings, complicating user control over their data.

Rhysida, a new cybergang, has emerged as a significant threat to international cybersecurity, claiming responsibility for a major attack on the British Library, where sensitive user data was stolen and sold. The group has also targeted government institutions in Portugal, Chile, and Kuwait, and various organizations in Italy. Rhysida operates a 'ransomware as a service' model, renting out malware to third-party cybercriminals. The origins of Rhysida are unclear, but they may have started as Gold Victor in 2021 and could be based in Russia, Belarus, or Kazakhstan. The group's activities have raised serious concerns among international authorities.

Cybercrime continues to be a significant concern, with the resurgence of the Qbot malware just four months after an international operation dismantled its infrastructure. Check Point Software Technologies reports that Qbot was used in a recent phishing attack targeting the hospitality sector. Another rising threat is the FakeUpdates malware, which has been targeting government authorities and organizations in education and communication sectors. Check Point Software Technologies urges companies to adopt preventive security measures and due diligence in email handling.

Significant developments in artificial intelligence regulation emerged from Washington as the United States, the United Kingdom, and 16 other countries introduced the first detailed international agreement aimed at ensuring AI safety from malicious actors. The non-binding agreement emphasizes the importance of designing AI systems with inherent safety measures to protect the public from misuse. Key figures, including Jen Easterly from the US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, highlighted the priority of user safety. The agreement, although primarily advisory, marks a notable step towards global AI regulation, aligning the US with the European Union's existing regulatory efforts.

Klarna's CEO, Sebastian Siemiatkowski, announced a hiring freeze, except for engineers, as the company anticipates AI will handle many tasks in the future. Despite no immediate plans for layoffs, Klarna is adopting a cautious approach, utilizing ChatGPT Enterprise to enhance productivity and manage disputes, saving significant time annually. This move raises concerns about job automation and unemployment, particularly for higher-paid roles, as AI becomes central to Klarna's workforce strategy.

Emotional artificial intelligence (AI) is being used by companies to monitor employees' emotional states to improve productivity, despite concerns about privacy and ethical implications. Framery has developed an office chair with biosensors to measure stress levels, but the handling of emotional data remains unclear. The practice is unregulated in the United States, while Europe is considering legislation to potentially make it illegal.

Yup is a new decentralized social media app that focuses on crossposting, allowing users to share content across multiple platforms like X, Bluesky, Farcaster, Lens, and Threads. Despite the high cost of API support for X, Yup aims to help users and creators interact with a broad audience across major social media. The app's cofounder, Nir Kabessa, highlights the interoperability and consolidation benefits of such open social networks.

Italy is a prime target for cybercriminals, with the Italian passport being the second most forged document globally, following the Indian passport. The 2024 Identity Fraud Report by Onfido highlights significant security deficiencies in Italy's anti-fraud measures for passports and national ID cards. The rise in document forgery is facilitated by accessible AI tools that produce digitally manipulated images. Simon Horswell from Onfido suggests using defensive AI trained on recent attack vectors as a solution. Onfido's Fraud Lab is developing an AI model to detect document fraud. Veracode notes a surge in AI-driven cyberattacks, emphasizing the need for stringent regulations similar to those for biochemical weapons.

Starbucks faces allegations of manipulative practices with its app, which reportedly forces users into a cycle of continuous purchases by making it difficult to use remaining balances on their Starbucks Card. A consumer protection group has filed a complaint with the Washington Attorney General, claiming the app's design is deceptive. Starbucks responded that customers can zero out their card balance in physical stores, though this option is not available on the app. The Attorney General will investigate whether Starbucks' practices are indeed misleading.

Gaza civilians are increasingly relying on eSIMs to stay connected to the internet amidst bombings, fuel shortages, and power outages. The Israeli government's restrictions on telecommunications have exacerbated the situation, forcing Palestinians to find alternative ways to communicate with the outside world. eSIMs, which allow for phone plans without physical SIM cards, have become a crucial tool, although their effectiveness is limited by the need for an initial internet connection. Activists and neighboring regions are aiding by providing eSIMs, but connectivity remains a significant challenge. Despite the difficulties, many Palestinians continue to depend on eSIMs in hopes of preserving their lives and those of their loved ones.

eBay has been fined $3 million for cyberstalking a Massachusetts couple, Ina and David Steiner, who published a critical newsletter about the platform. The company's former security director, James Baugh, and former global resilience director, David Harville, received five-year prison sentences. The Department of Justice charged eBay with cyberstalking, obstruction of justice, and witness tampering. The harassment began in 2019 after Ina Steiner published an article critical of eBay's lawsuit against Amazon. Former CEO Devin Wenig denied knowledge of the actions taken by his executives.

Spotify is testing a new feature that allows users to generate playlists with the help of AI, similar to a chatbot. This feature, currently available only in English and in the testing phase, lets users describe the type of music they want or choose from suggested options. The AI then creates a playlist that can be further refined by the user. This development follows Spotify's earlier introduction of an AI-based personalized DJ. Ziad Sultan, head of personalization at Spotify, emphasized the company's focus on AI expertise.

Google's AI chatbot Bard is now available in English for teenagers worldwide, provided they meet the minimum age requirements, which vary by country. Initially tested in the United States, Bard aims to inspire, help discover new hobbies, and solve daily problems for teenagers. It includes features like a math learning path and safety measures to filter inappropriate content. Google emphasizes the importance of double-checking information to develop critical thinking skills among young users.

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing web browsing, with companies like The Browser Company, Microsoft, Google, SigmaOS, Opera, Brave, and OpenAI integrating AI features into their browsers. The Browser Company's Arc browser, enhanced with AI, has seen significant success, while other companies are also launching AI-powered tools. AI capabilities in browsers include summarizing content, writing text, providing context, and personalizing user experiences. Privacy concerns remain a key issue, with companies cautious about fully deploying AI tools. Industry experts see AI agents as a potential evolution in web navigation, though some express concerns about over-reliance on AI.

On April 8, a total solar eclipse will be visible to 44 million people, primarily in North America. Some TikTok creators are spreading theories that this event could signal the end of the world, drawing parallels to the biblical city of Nineveh. However, experts like biblical scholar Dan McClellan debunk these claims, stating that the eclipse will only affect two towns named Nineveh in Ohio and Indiana. Additionally, some creators are warning of potential power outages, though these claims are largely unfounded and seem to be driven by commercial interests.

OpenAI is working to mitigate a data exfiltration bug in ChatGpt that could potentially leak user conversation details to external observers. Despite attempts to resolve the issue, the company has not yet succeeded, and security controls in the iOS app remain insufficient. Researcher Johann Rehberger, who first reported the bug in April 2023, has publicly shared a system called 'The Thief!' that allows data exfiltration from ChatGpt to third-party URLs. OpenAI has implemented some client-side controls but still faces challenges in preventing malicious actors from accessing sensitive user data. The company has not yet commented on the issue, indicating ongoing efforts to find a definitive solution.

OpenAI has removed the prohibition on using its technology for military purposes from its usage policies, while still banning the use of its services to harm others. This change has drawn attention due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas and the increasing interest of military agencies in AI. OpenAI clarified that its technology should not be used to develop or use weapons but can be employed for national security purposes in line with the company's mission. Recently, OpenAI collaborated with DARPA to create cybersecurity tools to protect critical infrastructure.

Jenny Odell, an artist and writer from Oakland, California, explores the concept of time in her new book 'Salvare il tempo,' urging readers to rethink their relationship with time beyond productivity. She emphasizes the importance of experiencing time in a personalized manner and challenges the conventional notion that 'time is money.' Odell discusses the cultural and historical contexts of time management, advocating for a shift towards meaningful interactions and a collective approach to reclaiming time. The book also critiques the pervasive culture of productivity and offers practical advice for those struggling with time constraints.

In 2023, the rapid development of artificial intelligence and geopolitical tensions, including the Israel-Hamas conflict and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, have significantly impacted the digital landscape. Key figures like Elon Musk and Donald Trump are highlighted for their controversial actions, while cybercriminal groups such as Cl0p, Alphv, and Sandworm have intensified their activities. The article also discusses the influence of AI, with Sam Altman and OpenAI playing a pivotal role. The piece underscores the pervasive impact of technology on global security and politics.

The Atelier Versace Fall Couture Week fashion show during Paris Haute Couture 2015 unveiled the Fall/Winter 2015 collection, leaving the audience in awe. The show featured a grand entrance with models emerging from a Medusa sculpture made of colored orchids. The collection emphasized soft chiffon, intricate embroideries, and transparencies, evoking images of ancient Greek goddesses, the Italian Renaissance, and Seventies hippie trends. The designs included asymmetrical cuts, Chantilly lace, silk, and corset-like corsages, blending historical inspiration with modern haute couture. The garments, described as sensual, feminine, and elegant, showcased a balance of vulnerability and strength, with a focus on femininity through details like 'see-through' effects and strategic draperies.

In the enchanting atmosphere of the Acquedotto Felice on a warm summer evening, the young talents of IED Rome presented their creations, kicking off the high fashion event AltaRoma. The event highlighted the innovative modernity of the students' clothing and accessories, complemented by avant-garde sound and light design, against the historical backdrop of the Acquedotto Felice. The collection, named Around, varied yet cohesive, explored themes of human surroundings in geographical, temporal, and cultural contexts. The runway featured a mix of modern street style and classic evening wear, with soft lines, intriguing transparencies, technical fabrics, and asymmetrical cuts. The designs embodied the finesse of traditional Italian craftsmanship and the impertinence of contemporary freedom, representing strong, independent, traveling, and dreamy women.