Microsoft has re-evaluated its upcoming ‘Recall’ feature, initially met with criticism over privacy concerns. The feature, initially set to be enabled by default, will now be opt-in, requiring user activation and biometric authentication. Additionally, the database storing the feature’s screenshots will now be encrypted. These changes address fears that the feature could be exploited for data misuse.
Former Rajya Sabha member Pritish Nandy has expressed his frustration with the relentless spam calls he receives, despite being registered on the Do Not Disturb (DND) service. Despite his efforts to block numbers and enable DND, Nandy continues to be bombarded with marketing calls from various sources. This has prompted him to stop taking calls from unknown numbers altogether, even though he acknowledges that this decision may inconvenience those with urgent needs.
Windows 11’s AI integration, rumored to launch soon, named Recall, has raised privacy concerns due to its ability to record everything on a user’s screen. The privacy toggle feature allows users to turn off the recording, but it may be enabled by default. The specific name of the feature remains unclear, with rumors suggesting Recall AI or AI Explorer.
General Motors has announced the discontinuation of its OnStar Smart Driver program due to privacy violations and concerns about data sharing with third-party companies. The program, which provided users with driving-related data, has faced criticism for enrolling users without their knowledge and sharing their personal information with insurance companies. GM states that Smart Driver users will be unenrolled from the program, and the software will be removed from vehicles. The company is also working on enhanced privacy controls to improve transparency.
Worldcoin, a project that distributes free cryptocurrency in exchange for biometric data, is facing a shortage of orbs used for eye scans. However, the company behind Worldcoin, Tools for Humanity, views this shortage as a positive sign, indicating the popularity of the program. Over 10 million people in 160 countries have already scanned their eyes for Worldcoin. The program is not yet available in the U.S., leaving Americans to speculate about its potential implications. While privacy concerns remain, Worldcoin insists on prioritizing privacy and claims that intense skepticism is waning.
A call to action for female athletes to demand the NCAA Board of Governors repeal its policy allowing biological males to compete in women’s sports. The author, a former University of Pennsylvania swimmer, highlights the exclusion, discrimination, and privacy concerns faced by female athletes due to the policy. She emphasizes the support of the American public and the critical need for the NCAA to protect the integrity of women’s sports.
President Biden has signed legislation that bans TikTok in the United States unless it is sold to an American company. TikTok’s CEO, Shou Zi Chew, has responded by saying that the company will fight the ban in court, arguing that it violates the First Amendment. Chew claims that Congress is trying to suppress TikTok because it is a Chinese-owned company and that the ban is against the will of the American people.
In 2020, India’s government made the bold decision to ban TikTok, citing concerns over privacy and national security. The move was largely met with support from Indian citizens, who had been urging a boycott of Chinese goods following a deadly border conflict. TikTok’s hyperlocal content, which provided a unique glimpse into rural India, was a major draw for users. However, in the years since the ban, content creators and users have largely migrated to other platforms like Instagram. Despite the initial disruption, the transition has been relatively smooth for most. The ban has also raised questions about the potential national security risks posed by Chinese apps and the need for countries to assess their dependency on China.
TikTok, the popular Chinese video-sharing app, faces a potential ban in the United States, following a measure approved by Congress. In India, the app has already been banned for nearly four years due to privacy and security concerns. This article explores the reasons behind both bans, the impact on users and creators, and the broader implications for Chinese apps in the global market.
A woman seeks advice from Dear Abby after her neighbor’s frequent and loud moans have become a disturbance. Despite attempts to address the issue privately, the noises persist, prompting neighbors to express concern and consider calling the police. The writer worries about the impact on nearby children and requests guidance on how to address the situation without causing offense.
