In a recent security incident, OpenAI confirmed that a data breach involving its analytics partner, Mixpanel, exposed some user information. The breach occurred on November 9 when a threat actor infiltrated Mixpanel’s systems, though critical data like passwords and payment details remained secure. Exposed user profile data included names, email addresses, coarse location data, and browser information. OpenAI has removed Mixpanel from its production environment and is advising potentially affected API users to remain vigilant against phishing attempts.
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Democratic-led states are inadvertently sharing drivers’ data with ICE, officials say, and that’s a problem we need to unpack. The core issue, it seems, is that state agencies, the ones entrusted with our precious personal information, are often better at gathering it than they are at keeping it safe. It’s like they’re good at building the house, but forget to install a proper lock on the front door. We’re talking about driver’s license data here, the kind of info that can reveal a lot about a person: their address, their identity, and potentially, their immigration status.
It’s tempting to think this is a simple, partisan issue, but the reality is likely much more complex.… Continue reading
A Social Security whistleblower has alleged that the personal data of hundreds of millions of Americans was uploaded to a vulnerable cloud server, potentially accessible by a notorious DOGE operative. The database contained sensitive information like Social Security numbers, names, and addresses, which could lead to widespread identity theft and loss of benefits. The whistleblower, Charles Borges, warned of “catastrophic impact” due to the lack of oversight and security measures employed by DOGE. The SSA, however, denied any privacy breach, stating data is stored in a secure environment with robust safeguards, but this revelation adds to growing concerns about DOGE’s actions and their consequences.
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Flock Safety, a company that deploys license plate-reading cameras, has suspended operations with federal agencies due to concerns over data usage, especially in Illinois. The company’s cameras capture billions of license plate photos monthly, with local agencies controlling the data and responding to law enforcement inquiries. Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias raised concerns after discovering Customs and Border Protection accessed Illinois data, potentially violating a state law restricting data sharing on abortion and immigration. As a result, Flock Safety has revised its system to clearly identify federal inquiries and limit search capabilities.
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The Trump administration has unveiled a new program enabling Americans to share personal health data across health systems and private tech company apps, with over 60 companies, including Google, Amazon, and Apple, participating. This initiative aims to improve access to health records and monitor wellness, focusing on areas like diabetes and weight management using digital tools. However, this move raises concerns about the security and privacy of sensitive patient data, despite assurances from officials at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Digital privacy advocates express skepticism about data security, while the government’s involvement, along with limited regulation of health apps, fuels further worry about the potential for misuse of personal health information.
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Denmark has pledged to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities by supplying the country with European-made satellite communication services. This aid package, announced by the Danish Defense Ministry, includes receiver terminals to facilitate satellite-based communications, crucial for Ukraine’s defense amid the ongoing conflict. The move comes as Ukraine relies heavily on satellite services like Starlink, and follows concerns over potential disruptions to those services. Denmark’s initiative marks the first instance of an ally funding satellite communication services through the EU’s European Defense Agency and builds upon close cooperation between Copenhagen and Kyiv.
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Palantir’s involvement with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in collecting disease data is raising serious privacy concerns. The sheer scale of data aggregation raises the specter of a vast, centralized database containing sensitive health information, potentially leaving individuals vulnerable to misuse. This potential for abuse is amplified by Palantir’s reputation and the nature of its technology.
The company’s software, Foundry, is designed for complex data analysis, but its proprietary nature creates concerns about transparency and potential vendor lock-in. This dependence on Palantir’s system could limit the CDC’s ability to switch providers and potentially hinder independent audits of the data’s handling.… Continue reading
Nineteen-year-old Matthew Lane pleaded guilty to hacking PowerSchool, a leading education technology company, and stealing the personal data of 62 million children. Lane gained access using a stolen employee password, resulting in the largest known breach of American children’s data. His plea agreement includes a prison sentence of no less than nine years and four months for charges including obtaining information from a protected computer and aggravated identity theft. While Lane admitted to the hack, the extent of his involvement in subsequent extortion attempts remains unclear.
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User feedback revealed significant issues with video ad performance. Problems included slow loading, frozen or incomplete ads, and failure to initiate playback. Additionally, excessively loud audio was reported. These technical difficulties impacted user experience negatively.
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Elon Musk’s role within the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is shifting. While he will officially leave his post in May, he will maintain a reduced, primarily remote, involvement, dedicating a few days a week to the department. His staff will remain in place, continuing their work despite criticism of DOGE’s performance. This transition allows Musk to refocus on his business ventures, aligning with his previously stated intentions.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood
Democratic States Inadvertently Share Driver Data with ICE: Analysis
Democratic-led states are inadvertently sharing drivers’ data with ICE, officials say, and that’s a problem we need to unpack. The core issue, it seems, is that state agencies, the ones entrusted with our precious personal information, are often better at gathering it than they are at keeping it safe. It’s like they’re good at building the house, but forget to install a proper lock on the front door. We’re talking about driver’s license data here, the kind of info that can reveal a lot about a person: their address, their identity, and potentially, their immigration status.
It’s tempting to think this is a simple, partisan issue, but the reality is likely much more complex.… Continue reading