Tag Archive for: concerns.

Nothing removes iMessage Android app from Play Store amid security concerns

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Nothing Chats was an app intended to give Android users a method of messaging others through Apple’s iMessage app, but the method in which they used to work around Apple’s security raised some eyebrows. And, just a short time after launch, Nothing removed their app from the Play Store to “fix several bugs”.

With how large of a company Apple is, it’s no surprise that they’ve got an iron grip when it comes to their exclusive hardware and software capabilities.

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One of the biggest barriers between Android and Apple users is the prominence of iMessage, the main messaging app for iPhones. The Apple-exclusive messaging app has some concessions when it comes to messaging non-Apple phones like making Android users’ media lower quality when sent via messages.

So, Nothing sought to create a method of bypassing Apple’s hold in the area that’d give Android users access it. However, the way in which they went about getting around Apple’s identification raised some security concerns. Though Nothing has yet to address those concerns, they have removed the app from the store a short time after launch.

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Nothing pulls iMessage app amid ongoing security concerns

MKBHD explained these security concerns in detail, but the gist is that Nothing and Sunbird’s workaround involves Sunbird storing data on a Firebase server. As a result, the data could be up for grabs if someone is able to get ahold of the token to log into the Mac connected to the server that makes the app’s workaround function.

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Users have discovered a short line of code that can be used to download user data en masse from the Firebase server managing all…

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New Report Examines Pressing K-12 Cybersecurity Concerns

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A new report out Monday found K-12 organizations’ cyber postures slipping slightly over the prior year as they grapple with stubborn cybersecurity challenges and threats ranging from banking Trojans to ransomware.

Cybersecurity funding remains a top concern for the sector, but federal officials are turning attention to the issue and various organizations offer low-cost and free cyber tools.

On Nov. 13, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) proposed a pilot program that would provide funding supporting cybersecurity and advanced firewall services at schools and libraries. Plus, K-12 Dive notes, state planning committees could use funds from the ongoing State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program to help school districts in adopting cyber best practices.


Meanwhile, organizations like the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC) offer some free tools and resources, while the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s (CISA) Known Exploited Vulnerability list can be a helpful way to prioritize, advises the new Center for Internet Security (CIS) MS-ISAC K-12 Cybersecurity Report.

STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES

In 2022, 402 K-12 organizations participated in the Nationwide Cybersecurity Review (NCSR). They listed a familiar set of security concerns. Alongside funding shortcomings, those included cyber threats’ rising sophistication, insufficient availability of cyber professionals and lack of documented processes or cyber strategies.The NCSR scores organizations’ cyber maturity to help them assess strengths and gaps. In 2022, K-12 participants averaged a score of 3.25 out of a possible high score of 7. That’s a touch below 2021’s average score of 3.55 — although still “satisfactory,” the report said.

Improving means K-12 must shore up areas like supply chain risk management. Plus, more K-12 organizations should adopt protective measures like collecting audit logs, maintaining data classification schemes and defending against some malware by disabling the autoplay feature on removable media.

Those were also areas of weakness in 2021, but new issues emerged in 2022, too: lack of…

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Security and Privacy Concerns with 2023’s Smart Gadgets

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In an era of rapid technological advancement, smart gadgets have become an integral part of our daily lives. These innovative devices, equipped with cutting-edge technology and connectivity, offer convenience, entertainment, and efficiency like never before. From smart thermostats that regulate our home’s temperature to wearable fitness trackers that monitor our health, the market for smart gadgets is booming. However, amid the convenience and excitement, there lurk significant security and privacy concerns that we must address in 2023.

Introduction

The Smart Revolution

Smart gadgets, ranging from smart refrigerators to voice-activated assistants, have transformed the way we interact with our surroundings. These devices leverage the power of the internet and artificial intelligence to simplify tasks, enhance our productivity, and provide entertainment. They have become an essential part of the modern lifestyle, promising to make our lives more comfortable and efficient.

However, with great innovation comes great responsibility, and the proliferation of smart gadgets raises several critical security and privacy issues that we need to be aware of.

Data Privacy Concerns

One of the most pressing concerns with smart gadgets is data privacy. These devices often collect vast amounts of data about us, such as our preferences, routines, and personal information. This data can be exploited if it falls into the wrong hands. Manufacturers and developers may also use this data for marketing purposes without our explicit consent, potentially compromising our privacy.

To mitigate this concern, it is crucial to read the privacy policies of smart gadget manufacturers carefully. Additionally, users should regularly review the permissions granted to these devices and exercise caution when sharing personal information.

Vulnerabilities to Hacking

Smart gadgets are connected to the internet, making them vulnerable to hacking attempts. Cybercriminals can exploit…

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Concerns over PSNI computer security as new figures reveal 161 data incidents

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Questions over how the PSNI deals with computer security have been raised after new figures revealed that the force recorded a data breach every two-and-a-half weeks on average last year.

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