The recent news of the massive data breach at AT&T, where nearly all cell customers’ call and text records were exposed, is not only alarming but also raises serious concerns about the state of data privacy and security in our digital age. The fact that this breach occurred between May 1, 2022, and October 31, 2022, but was only disclosed recently is extremely troubling. It begs the question of how long such sensitive information has been floating out there in the digital ether, potentially accessible to malicious actors.
AT&T attributed this breach to an “illegal download” on a third-party cloud platform, which they claim to have discovered in April.… Continue reading
As an attorney, I understand the importance of privacy and confidentiality, especially when it comes to personal data. So, when I came across the news of an attorney who saw her library reading habits reflected in mobile ads, it struck a chord with me. The idea of my private reading preferences being exposed to advertisers without my consent is unsettling, to say the least.
In today’s digital age, where our every move online is being tracked and monitored for targeted advertising, it’s concerning to see just how integrated our personal data has become. The concept of “listening” to our conversations or tracking our browsing habits goes beyond what many of us would consider acceptable.… Continue reading
As the Head of Canada’s intelligence agency warns Canadians not to use TikTok, the concerns raised about the popular social media platform are undeniably valid. We are living in an age where data privacy and security have become paramount, with governments around the world closely monitoring the flow of information to protect their citizens. The fact that Chinese companies are obligated to share data with their government is a cause for alarm, especially when considering the implications of such actions.
While some may argue that data collection is a common practice among many tech companies, the key difference lies in the legal frameworks that govern these actions.… Continue reading
As I scrolled through my feed and stumbled upon the news that TikTok will not be sold, ByteDance telling the US to essentially take a hike, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of emotions. On one hand, there’s a sense of relief that the app I’ve grown accustomed to using won’t be disappearing from my life anytime soon. However, on the other hand, there’s a looming sense of uncertainty about what this decision means for the future of TikTok in the US.
The saga of TikTok’s potential sale has been ongoing for quite some time now, with the US government attempting to force ByteDance to divest its popular social media platform.… Continue reading
I find the recent news about TikTok facing a potential ban in the US quite intriguing. The fact that the US Congress passed a bill that could lead to the app being banned is a significant development in the ongoing debate surrounding privacy and data security issues.
The shift in attitudes towards TikTok is quite remarkable, from being a platform associated with cringy content to now a hub of engaging and entertaining videos. The app has undoubtedly gained immense popularity, especially among younger audiences who make up a substantial portion of its user base.
However, concerns about data privacy and security have plagued TikTok for quite some time.… Continue reading
Grindr is under fire once again for allegedly revealing users’ HIV status. This is not the first time the app has been involved in privacy scandals, and it certainly won’t be the last. The recent lawsuit claims that Grindr sold users’ sensitive information to third-party companies, a breach of trust that should not be taken lightly.
As a user of the app, privacy is a top concern for me. When logging in, I always make sure to opt out of having my data sold to third parties. However, the fact that companies like Grindr are willing to sell such personal information is alarming.… Continue reading
The news of former Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin putting together an investor group to buy TikTok has stirred up strong reactions and concerns among the public. The idea of Mnuchin, a former government official, being involved in a deal to acquire a popular social media platform raises questions about conflicts of interest and the potential for exploitation. It’s unsettling to think that individuals who once held positions of power in the government could now be seeking to profit off of legislation and decisions they were involved in.
The previous attempts by the Trump administration to broker a deal involving U.S. corporations in the ownership of TikTok on national security grounds were met with scrutiny and skepticism.… Continue reading
As a concerned individual who is genuinely curious about the recent unanimous vote by US lawmakers to force the sale of TikTok, I can’t help but feel a sense of skepticism and confusion surrounding the decision. With all 52 members of the House Commerce Committee voting in favor of this action, one can’t help but wonder about the underlying motives behind such a bold move.
While some argue that TikTok poses a threat due to data privacy concerns and its Chinese ownership, there are valid questions to be raised about the necessity of such drastic measures. In a world where social media giants like Facebook and Twitter have faced their fair share of controversies regarding data privacy and security, it seems counterintuitive to single out TikTok for similar reasons.… Continue reading
23andMe, once hailed as a revolutionary company in the field of genetic testing, has experienced a staggering fall from grace. In 2021, the company reached its peak valuation of $6 billion, making its CEO, Anne Wojcicki, a self-made billionaire. However, that valuation has now collapsed by 98%, with 23andMe’s stock facing the threat of being delisted from Nasdaq. It seems that the allure of this once-popular company has faded, leaving many to question its model and future prospects.
One of the key challenges for 23andMe lies in the nature of its product. DNA testing is typically a one-time use service, meaning that once customers have taken the test and received their results, there is little incentive for them to continue using the service.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood