# Russia Limits Secure Calling on WhatsApp and Telegram
In a move that has sparked widespread concern, Russia has started blocking calls on popular messaging apps WhatsApp and Telegram, citing the encryption schemes used by these platforms as a violation of information-sharing requirements between tech companies and the government.
The decision is part of Russia's ongoing efforts to expand its mechanisms for internet censorship and control, often under the guise of national security and law enforcement. The Kremlin has been cracking down on online dissent and opposition in recent years, and this latest move is seen as a further attempt to exert control over the flow of information within its borders.
WhatsApp spokesperson told WIRED that “WhatsApp is private, end-to-end encrypted, and defies government attempts to violate people's right to secure communication, which is why Russia is trying to block it from over 100 million Russian people.”
Telegram also responded to the allegations, stating that it takes steps to address criminal behavior on its platform, including deploying moderators equipped with AI tools to monitor public discourse and communications on the platform that are not end-to-end encrypted. Telegram said it takes down millions of malicious messages each day.
The impact of this move is already being felt in Russia, where many users have reported being unable to make or receive calls on WhatsApp and Telegram. The platforms have a combined user base of nearly 200 million people, making them two of the most popular messaging apps in the country.
The decision also raises questions about the future of online communication in Russia. With both WhatsApp and Telegram now being blocked, users are left with limited options for secure communication. This could have significant implications for human rights activists, journalists, and others who rely on these platforms to communicate freely and safely.
# US Senator Demands Accountability from Data Brokers
US Senator Maggie Hassan has called for greater accountability from data brokers after an investigation revealed that dozens of companies had been hiding their opt-out and personal-data-deletion tools from Google Search.
The report, which was published by WIRED, The Markup, and CalMatters, found that many data brokers had made it difficult or impossible for users to find and access these tools. This is a significant concern, as data brokers often collect and sell sensitive information about individuals without their consent.
Senator Hassan has demanded that the companies involved take steps to improve transparency and user control over their data. “It's unacceptable that some data brokers are hiding opt-out and personal-data-deletion tools from search results, making it harder for people to protect themselves and their families," she said in a statement.
The investigation into data brokers is just the latest example of the challenges faced by individuals seeking to control their own personal data. As more and more companies collect and sell our information, it's becoming increasingly difficult to know what's going on behind the scenes.
# Russia Involved in US Court Records System Breach
Reports have emerged that Russia was likely involved in a breach of the US court records system, with federal investigators still trying to determine the extent of the incident.
The breach occurred when hackers targeted the system used by the US Courts, potentially accessing sensitive information about individuals and cases. The Russian embassy has denied any involvement in the breach, but experts believe that Russia was likely behind the attack.
The breach is just one example of the growing threat posed by state-sponsored cyberattacks. As more and more countries invest in their cyber capabilities, the risk of attacks on critical infrastructure increases.
# Gray Market for Video Game Cheats
A new report has shed light on the multimillion-dollar gray market for video game cheats.
The report found that many gamers are willing to pay significant sums of money to access cheats and hacks that allow them to gain an advantage in online multiplayer games. The grey market is dominated by a small number of large-scale cheat operators who sell their services to other players.
But the use of game cheats has significant implications for the gaming industry as a whole. As more and more gamers turn to cheats, it undermines the integrity of online competitions and can damage the reputation of legitimate gamers.
# Protecting Yourself from Portable Point-of-Sale Scams
With the rise of mobile payments, portable point-of-sale scams are becoming increasingly common.
These scams involve hackers using stolen credit card data or other information to make unauthorized purchases. To protect yourself, it's essential to be aware of these types of scams and take steps to prevent them.
Here are some tips for protecting yourself from portable point-ofsale scams:
* Always keep your devices and payment cards secure. * Be cautious when using mobile payments or online services that require you to enter sensitive information. * Monitor your bank statements regularly for any suspicious activity.
# Building Your Own Quantum Sensor
Researchers at the Defcon security conference in Las Vegas have made available open source instructions for building your own quantum sensor.
The quantum sensor is a highly sensitive device that can detect even small amounts of quantum radiation. With this new information, individuals and organizations can now build their own quantum sensors to monitor and analyze quantum signals.
But be warned: building a quantum sensor requires significant technical expertise and specialized equipment. This project should only be attempted by experienced researchers or engineers with a background in physics and electronics.
# Facial Recognition Vans Set to Roll Out Across England
Police forces across England are set to roll out a new fleet of facial recognition vans, which will be used to aid in investigations related to serious crimes.
The vans will be equipped with state-of-the-art facial recognition technology, allowing officers to quickly identify suspects and solve cases. But civil liberties groups have expressed concerns about the potential impact on individual freedoms.
As facial recognition becomes more widespread, it's essential that we consider the implications for our personal data and privacy. How far should law enforcement be able to go in using this technology? These are questions that need to be answered as we move forward with this technology.
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