The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has imposed a $16.5 million fine on Avast for its practices regarding the collection and selling of users’ browsing data. This ruling not only subjects Avast to a substantial financial penalty but also bans the company from selling or licensing web browsing
Latest News: Privacy
In a concerning discovery, about 55% of all inputs to generative AI platforms contain sensitive and personally identifiable information (PII). This revelation was uncovered in a new report released by Menlo Security, which highlighted the rapid developments of both generative AI and the
Google's Threat Analysis Group (TAG) has published a report on the widespread use of commercial spyware, commonly supplied by Europe-based startups for government surveillance campaigns. In one recent campaign, government-backed hackers used tools supplied by Variston, a Barcelona-based spyware
The Biden administration has introduced a new visa restriction policy aimed at curbing the misuse of commercial spyware. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the policy's broad target, stating it would affect those involved in the misuse of commercial spyware to target journalists,
The US National Security Agency (NSA) has been buying Americans’ internet browsing data from commercial data brokers without obtaining warrants. This practice, which involves collecting web browsing information, such as the websites visited and apps used by Americans, came to light through
In a striking revelation by Amnesty International (in partnership with The Washington Post), the use of Pegasus spyware, developed by Israeli firm NSO Group, has been found targeting high-profile journalists in India. This alarming development was highlighted in a forensic investigation conducted
In a landmark privacy move, Meta has announced the rollout of default end-to-end encryption for personal chats and calls on Messenger, marking a significant stride in digital privacy. As articulated by Loredana Crisan, Head of Messenger, this update ushers in a new era where user communications are
In a landmark decision that shakes the core of online advertising, Meta Platforms Inc. has been directed by the European Data Protection Board (EDPB) to cease targeted advertising practices across the European Economic Area (EEA). This measure primarily impacts its social media services, Facebook
In efforts to enhance online security and curb cyberbullying and explicit content, France’s proposed SREN Bill has raised concerns about the potential ban of VPNs from major app stores. On September 30th, lawmakers from the center-right Horizons political party introduced amendments to address
Meta is facing warnings from the UK government regarding its plans to implement end-to-end encryption (E2EE) on Messenger and Instagram. The government has expressed concerns that this move could compromise the detection of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Meta had previously announced its