Google is doubling down on user tracking with cookies and a controversial Privacy Sandbox initiative. Twitter users need to opt out quickly to protect their data from AI submission. A recent court ruling is a game changer, preventing border agents from accessing your phone without a warrant. The discussion dives into significant data breaches affecting many platforms and highlights Switzerland's push for open source software in the public sector. Plus, there's an in-depth look at privacy challenges in cryptocurrency wallets and emerging tech features that enhance online privacy.
Google's decision to retain third-party cookies highlights the tension between user privacy and the advertising industry's demands for data accessibility.
Recent legal rulings reinforce the privacy rights of individuals at border crossings, signaling a significant shift in Fourth Amendment interpretations.
Deep dives
Google's New Data Tracking Methods
Google has decided to maintain third-party cookies in Chrome, despite past intentions to deprecate them. The initiative emerged after significant feedback from the advertising industry, allowing users to choose their privacy settings while browsing. Additionally, the so-called Privacy Sandbox, intended as a privacy-enhancing tool, remains unchanged and does not offer actual usability benefits for users. Those using Google Chrome are advised to disable both third-party cookies and the Privacy Sandbox to better protect their online privacy.
Data Breaches and Their Resilience
Recent data breaches reveal varying responses and outcomes, with Greece's land registry reportedly secured against significant damage despite a cyber attack. Although hackers compromised certain employee terminals and stole some administrative documents, no personal information was leaked, indicating the agency's protective measures were somewhat effective. Conversely, data from the hacking community was leaked when nearly 200,000 member records from BreachForums were exposed by a well-known threat actor, demonstrating the irony of bad actors facing data security issues themselves. Furthermore, the issue of data breaches remains pervasive, as multiple companies continue to downplay their severity or even deny the existence of breaches.
Advancements in Privacy Law and Security
Significant legal rulings have emerged regarding privacy rights, especially concerning the search of electronic devices at border crossings, now classified as non-routine searches by the US court system. This decision aims to better protect journalists and ensure the confidentiality of their sources, marking a progressive shift in the interpretation of Fourth Amendment rights. Meanwhile, innovative developments are occurring in sectors such as government transparency, with Switzerland introducing legislation that mandates all government software be open-source. These developments collectively highlight the ongoing evolution of privacy measures and the increasing importance of safeguarding personal data in both public and private sectors.
Episode 188: Google’s decided to track you in two ways now, Twitter is autosubmitting your data to AI unless you opt out which we'll share how to do, US courts are preventing people at the border from peeking into your phone without a warrant in a massive win, and more!