Hacking Safety
February 22nd, 2023
Wired and others are reporting on a new bug that can slip past Apple’s security standards and access your messages, photos, and call history. Now would be a good time to update your iPhone, iPad, and any other Apple devices you’ve got. Researchers have identified a bug “that could allow criminal hackers to break out of Apple’s security protections and run their own unauthorized code.” Not good. Update.
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July 13th, 2022
The scam economy—fraudulent emails, robo calls, spam texts—cost victims nearly $6 billion last year. But it’s not just our dollars at risk. It’s our emotional well-being, too. A recent article in the Washington Post describes how the incessant intrusions from unknown numbers, and the need to guard against their entreaties, takes its toll on our mental health.
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April 28th, 2022
Citing security concerns, Google is encouraging everyone who uses the company’s Chrome browser to upgrade to the latest version of the software. The new version addresses some 30 security fixes. That’s important. If you’re a Chrome user, upgrade now. For more information, read here and here.
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May 14th, 2021
You’re going to be traveling again soon. Here’s a reminder: Watch your wifi. And while you’re at it, start using a VPN.
Summer is approaching and pandemic restrictions are lifting. You and your family will be on the move again, which means you’ll be connecting to the internet through unfamiliar networks. Be careful and watch your WiFi.
Using public and semi-public WiFi networks can leave you vulnerable to “man in…... Continue reading >
February 18th, 2021
You probably assume AirDrop is safe. It’s built right into your iPhone or iPad: a feature that lets people quickly share information with each other in the same room wirelessly. No need to transfer it through an Internet server first (as one does through DropBox or iCloud). So simple, so convenient. So private and secure, too? If you’re into updates, yes.
The good news is, it’s been made safer lately. But the technology…... Continue reading >
November 18th, 2020
Covid exposure apps may steer you from danger, but the Bluetooth technology they use can chip away at your privacy. Here’s how the apps work, and what you should be thinking about if you use one.
Most Covid exposure apps rely on Bluetooth technology, a system that enables two devices near one another to exchange information wirelessly. Using Bluetooth, exposure apps can tell whether anyone you encounter while running errands tests positive for Covid.
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October 29th, 2020
Apps should earn their place on your phone. If there are unused apps on your phone—apps you haven’t opened in the last month—delete them. You’ll boost your privacy, bolster your security, and de-clutter your phone in one move. Even when apps are “off,” they are still soaking up information about you, feeding the tracking industry at no benefit to you. Fight off the zombies. Delete unused apps.
The Threat of Zombie Apps
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May 28th, 2020
Many parents today became adults during the advent of social media, sharing and oversharing personal information and photos. Platforms like Facebook and Instagram are so familiar to them, they overshare photos of their children, too, without pausing to think of the dangers.
Know the Risks
There are several risks that parents should be aware of when posting images of their children or sharing anecdotes about their personal lives online. These…... Continue reading >
April 7th, 2020
Editor’s note: Zoom has just released a package of security enhancements, part of an initiative the company’s calling Zoom 5.0. Read more about it here.
The antidote to self-isolation and social-distancing? Zoom. Virtually unheard of in mainstream America a month ago, Zoom, a video conference app, is suddenly everywhere, allowing coworkers to collaborate from home and kids to show off their latest paintings to amazed grandparents. But why Zoom? And, with reports of…... Continue reading >