data privacy and security

Tech giants Apple and Meta are opposing a new Canadian bill. They claim the legislation could force them to break end-to-end encryption. This technology secures user communications on platforms like WhatsApp and iMessage. Lawmakers say the bill will aid in investigating security threats. The companies argue it could compromise user safety and allow government access to private data.

Kicking off with a self-enumeration initiative, Maharashtra's Census 2027 promises to embrace the digital age while ensuring personal privacy and data integrity. Officials highlight the use of cutting-edge encryption and a detailed three-layer security system to safeguard information. The census will focus on vital demographic and economic statistics, with particular attention to marginalized communities and mobile populations.

Instagram is disabling end-to-end encryption for direct messages on May 8, 2026, a significant privacy rollback from parent company Meta. This means your private conversations will no longer be secure from the platform itself. Users concerned about message privacy should consider migrating to apps like WhatsApp or Signal, which still offer this crucial security feature.

The EU is grappling with VPNs, viewing them as a loophole to circumvent new age-verification systems for adult content. This comes as millions use VPNs to bypass these measures, mirroring trends seen after similar laws in the UK and Florida. Privacy advocates warn against restricting VPNs, citing Russia's failed attempts to block them and Utah's new location definition.

Apple and Meta are opposing Canada's Bill C-22, warning the proposed Lawful Access Act could force tech companies to break encryption and build government backdoors into their products. Meta's Will Cathcart called it a surveillance overreach. Public Safety Canada says the concerns are overblown. With France, Sweden, and the EU rejecting similar laws, Canada faces growing pressure to rethink the bill's controversial Part 2.

US lawmakers are investigating Airbnb and AI firm Anysphere over their use of Chinese AI models, citing national security concerns. Concerns stem from potential data risks and vulnerabilities associated with AI trained by China's censorship regime. Airbnb CEO previously highlighted reliance on Alibaba's Qwen model for its speed and cost-effectiveness.

Scammers are using fake AI bots to build emotional connections. These bots then manipulate users into sending money. An AI companion expert shares five red flags to identify these scams. Legitimate platforms offer transparent pricing and no emotional pressure. Users must be vigilant to protect themselves from these online schemes.

A feature called ACR turns your smart TV into a “two-way mirror”. Your screen may look passive, but the system behind it is capable of observing patterns, preferences and behaviour

OpenAI is reportedly testing a new feature called "Chronicle" for its AI coding agent, Codex. This opt-in feature captures screenshots to build contextual "memories," aiming to improve AI understanding without repeated user input. However, it has raised privacy and cybersecurity concerns due to its similarity to Microsoft's Windows Recall.

Tech giants like Google, Meta, and Amazon are significantly boosting lobbying efforts, spending millions as Artificial Intelligence becomes a major policy focus. Newcomers Anthropic and OpenAI are also dramatically increasing their Washington presence. Discussions with lawmakers cover AI regulation, national security, and infrastructure needs, highlighting intense competition in shaping future tech policies.

The old-school handset, with no internet and no apps, is making a comeback as users tire of doomscrolling and constant pings, fear privacy breaches

Israel's alleged hacking of Tehran's street cameras for assassinations highlights a grave vulnerability in India's extensive, often insecure CCTV networks. With AI amplifying risks, these systems, including those with Chinese components, could be weaponised by foreign intelligence agencies, posing a significant threat to national security and critical infrastructure.

Apple's new CEO, John Ternus, is set to launch more than ten new product categories. This includes a highly anticipated foldable iPhone, advanced AI wearables, and innovative computing and AR devices. Ternus aims to significantly expand Apple's product lineup, potentially reshaping the technology landscape. The company is also focusing on improving its AI capabilities to support these new hardware innovations.

Taylor Swift has become Spotify’s most-streamed artist of all time, surpassing global stars and reinforcing her long-term dominance in music. The achievement comes just ahead of her expected wedding to Travis Kelce, which remains shrouded in secrecy. While fans celebrate her streaming milestone, the couple is deliberately withholding wedding details to maintain privacy and avoid security risks, keeping even guests uncertain about the venue.

The Department of Homeland Security is developing smart glasses for immigration officers to conduct real-time biometric identification. Concerns have been raised by attorneys that this technology could extend beyond immigration enforcement, potentially impacting US citizens and protesters through broader surveillance.

Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas believes the iPhone remains AI-proof due to three key strengths. He highlights its role as a 'digital passport' for personal data, Apple's custom 'Apple Silicon' chip advantage enabling local AI processing, and the strong 'ecosystem lock-in' combined with user trust in Apple's security and privacy, making it difficult for new AI competitors to displace the device.

Gen Z is navigating a complex financial landscape, balancing early earning and investing with impulsive spending and trend-driven bets. While digitally savvy and embracing new tools, they often overlook essential safety nets like insurance. Experts urge a shift from quick gains to disciplined, long-term wealth building, splitting finances strategically for stability.