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Microsoft handed the government encryption keys for customer data

Microsoft handed the government encryption keys for customer data

Tech-news , , ,

The FBI went to Microsoft last year with a warrant, asking them to hand over keys to unlock encrypted data stored on three laptops as part of an investigation into potential fraud involving the COVID unemployment assistance program in Guam — and Microsoft complied.

Typically, companies resist handing over encryption keys to authorities. Most famously, Apple refused to grant the FBI access to a phone used by the San Bernardino shooters in 2016. The FBI eventually found a third-party to hack their way into the phone, but ultimately withdrew its case. Most of the major tech companies, including Google and Facebook backed Apple in its battle with the FBI. Even Microsoft supported Tim Cook’s position, if a bit less forcefully than some others.

In this instance, however, it seems that Microsoft has decided to bow to government demands and confirmed to Forbes that it “does provide BitLocker recovery keys if it receives a valid legal order.” Microsoft spokesperson Charles Chamberlayne told The Verge that Microsoft is legally required to produce the keys stored on its servers.

Chamberlayne ellaborated saying, “customers can choose to store their encryption keys locally, in a location inaccessible to Microsoft, or in Microsoft’s cloud. We recognize that some customers prefer Microsoft’s cloud storage so we can help recover their encryption key if needed. While key recovery offers convenience, it also carries a risk of unwanted access.”

Senator Ron Wyden of Oregon countered, telling Forbes that it was “irresponsible” for companies to “secretly turn over users’ encryption keys.”

What alarms privacy advocates like the ACLU is the precedent this sets and the potential for abuse. The current administration and ICE have shown little respect for data security or the rule of law. And beyond American borders, Jennifer Granick, surveillance and cybersecurity counsel at the ACLU, told Forbes that “foreign governments with questionable human rights records” may also expect Microsoft to hand over keys to customer data.

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Focus and productivity apps abound, all to help you stave off the many distractions coming from your phone. Or the annoying people at your open-office desk. Digital well-being tools can silence notifications, limit apps like TikTok and Instagram, and help you focus on the task at hand. But you can also turn them off very easily as soon as you feel like you haven’t endlessly scrolled enough.

This is where Flipper’s Busy Bar comes in, a hardware clock with an LED screen that doubles as a clock and a dedicated timer. Slap the big button in the middle, and the screen displays a bright red “BUSY” sign or another message that lets the people around you know you’re, well, busy. (Maybe try “GO AWAY” or “GET OUT OF MY ROOM, MOM.”) The bar goes on sale today and costs $249.

“How do you let people know politely, yet firmly, that you don’t want to be disturbed?” says Callum Tennent, a creative writer at Flipper. “We decided the politest way to do it was a massive red light on your desk.”

Image may contain Computer Hardware Electronics Hardware Monitor Screen Mobile Phone and Phone

Courtesy of Flipper Devices

Flipper Devices made the Flipper Zero, a $200 portable hacking tool that got big on TikTok in 2022 for using a Tamagotchi-esque dolphin character to detect wireless frequencies and potentially break RFID-controlled locks. It was a device that raised a variety of security concerns. Canada proposed a ban on the device out of fear that it might enable car thefts. In 2023, the US Customs and Border Protection seized 15,000 Flipper Zero devices, then ultimately released them. Flipper is currently working on another model, the Flipper One, that has even more advanced capabilities.

In between those more controversial devices comes the Busy Bar. The bar also works with the separate Busy app, yet another one of those productivity and focus tools living on your phone. What it doesn’t have is the capability of hacking anything. “It’s being made by us here at Flipper, but there’s no real connection to them,” Tennent says. “They’re totally disconnected products.”

Fundamentally, the Busy Bar is a pricey “On Air” light. It offers many of the same productivity capabilities that are likely already baked into your phone’s operating system—like blocking notifications on your phone. But Flipper is making the case that—much like the Brick, a hardware gadget you tap to block access to certain apps—having a hardware option to shut off the distractions around you is meaningfully different than just trying to use software productivity tools on your device.

#Busy #Bar #Gadget #People #Leavehacks,gadgets,smart home,apps,distractions,productivity,design">The Busy Bar Is a Gadget to Get People to Leave You AloneFocus and productivity apps abound, all to help you stave off the many distractions coming from your phone. Or the annoying people at your open-office desk. Digital well-being tools can silence notifications, limit apps like TikTok and Instagram, and help you focus on the task at hand. But you can also turn them off very easily as soon as you feel like you haven’t endlessly scrolled enough.This is where Flipper’s Busy Bar comes in, a hardware clock with an LED screen that doubles as a clock and a dedicated timer. Slap the big button in the middle, and the screen displays a bright red “BUSY” sign or another message that lets the people around you know you’re, well, busy. (Maybe try “GO AWAY” or “GET OUT OF MY ROOM, MOM.”) The bar goes on sale today and costs 9.“How do you let people know politely, yet firmly, that you don’t want to be disturbed?” says Callum Tennent, a creative writer at Flipper. “We decided the politest way to do it was a massive red light on your desk.”Courtesy of Flipper DevicesFlipper Devices made the Flipper Zero, a 0 portable hacking tool that got big on TikTok in 2022 for using a Tamagotchi-esque dolphin character to detect wireless frequencies and potentially break RFID-controlled locks. It was a device that raised a variety of security concerns. Canada proposed a ban on the device out of fear that it might enable car thefts. In 2023, the US Customs and Border Protection seized 15,000 Flipper Zero devices, then ultimately released them. Flipper is currently working on another model, the Flipper One, that has even more advanced capabilities.In between those more controversial devices comes the Busy Bar. The bar also works with the separate Busy app, yet another one of those productivity and focus tools living on your phone. What it doesn’t have is the capability of hacking anything. “It’s being made by us here at Flipper, but there’s no real connection to them,” Tennent says. “They’re totally disconnected products.”Fundamentally, the Busy Bar is a pricey “On Air” light. It offers many of the same productivity capabilities that are likely already baked into your phone’s operating system—like blocking notifications on your phone. But Flipper is making the case that—much like the Brick, a hardware gadget you tap to block access to certain apps—having a hardware option to shut off the distractions around you is meaningfully different than just trying to use software productivity tools on your device.#Busy #Bar #Gadget #People #Leavehacks,gadgets,smart home,apps,distractions,productivity,design

apps abound, all to help you stave off the many distractions coming from your phone. Or the annoying people at your open-office desk. Digital well-being tools can silence notifications, limit apps like TikTok and Instagram, and help you focus on the task at hand. But you can also turn them off very easily as soon as you feel like you haven’t endlessly scrolled enough.

This is where Flipper’s Busy Bar comes in, a hardware clock with an LED screen that doubles as a clock and a dedicated timer. Slap the big button in the middle, and the screen displays a bright red “BUSY” sign or another message that lets the people around you know you’re, well, busy. (Maybe try “GO AWAY” or “GET OUT OF MY ROOM, MOM.”) The bar goes on sale today and costs $249.

“How do you let people know politely, yet firmly, that you don’t want to be disturbed?” says Callum Tennent, a creative writer at Flipper. “We decided the politest way to do it was a massive red light on your desk.”

Image may contain Computer Hardware Electronics Hardware Monitor Screen Mobile Phone and Phone

Courtesy of Flipper Devices

Flipper Devices made the Flipper Zero, a $200 portable hacking tool that got big on TikTok in 2022 for using a Tamagotchi-esque dolphin character to detect wireless frequencies and potentially break RFID-controlled locks. It was a device that raised a variety of security concerns. Canada proposed a ban on the device out of fear that it might enable car thefts. In 2023, the US Customs and Border Protection seized 15,000 Flipper Zero devices, then ultimately released them. Flipper is currently working on another model, the Flipper One, that has even more advanced capabilities.

In between those more controversial devices comes the Busy Bar. The bar also works with the separate Busy app, yet another one of those productivity and focus tools living on your phone. What it doesn’t have is the capability of hacking anything. “It’s being made by us here at Flipper, but there’s no real connection to them,” Tennent says. “They’re totally disconnected products.”

Fundamentally, the Busy Bar is a pricey “On Air” light. It offers many of the same productivity capabilities that are likely already baked into your phone’s operating system—like blocking notifications on your phone. But Flipper is making the case that—much like the Brick, a hardware gadget you tap to block access to certain apps—having a hardware option to shut off the distractions around you is meaningfully different than just trying to use software productivity tools on your device.

#Busy #Bar #Gadget #People #Leavehacks,gadgets,smart home,apps,distractions,productivity,design">The Busy Bar Is a Gadget to Get People to Leave You Alone

Focus and productivity apps abound, all to help you stave off the many distractions coming from your phone. Or the annoying people at your open-office desk. Digital well-being tools can silence notifications, limit apps like TikTok and Instagram, and help you focus on the task at hand. But you can also turn them off very easily as soon as you feel like you haven’t endlessly scrolled enough.

This is where Flipper’s Busy Bar comes in, a hardware clock with an LED screen that doubles as a clock and a dedicated timer. Slap the big button in the middle, and the screen displays a bright red “BUSY” sign or another message that lets the people around you know you’re, well, busy. (Maybe try “GO AWAY” or “GET OUT OF MY ROOM, MOM.”) The bar goes on sale today and costs $249.

“How do you let people know politely, yet firmly, that you don’t want to be disturbed?” says Callum Tennent, a creative writer at Flipper. “We decided the politest way to do it was a massive red light on your desk.”

Image may contain Computer Hardware Electronics Hardware Monitor Screen Mobile Phone and Phone

Courtesy of Flipper Devices

Flipper Devices made the Flipper Zero, a $200 portable hacking tool that got big on TikTok in 2022 for using a Tamagotchi-esque dolphin character to detect wireless frequencies and potentially break RFID-controlled locks. It was a device that raised a variety of security concerns. Canada proposed a ban on the device out of fear that it might enable car thefts. In 2023, the US Customs and Border Protection seized 15,000 Flipper Zero devices, then ultimately released them. Flipper is currently working on another model, the Flipper One, that has even more advanced capabilities.

In between those more controversial devices comes the Busy Bar. The bar also works with the separate Busy app, yet another one of those productivity and focus tools living on your phone. What it doesn’t have is the capability of hacking anything. “It’s being made by us here at Flipper, but there’s no real connection to them,” Tennent says. “They’re totally disconnected products.”

Fundamentally, the Busy Bar is a pricey “On Air” light. It offers many of the same productivity capabilities that are likely already baked into your phone’s operating system—like blocking notifications on your phone. But Flipper is making the case that—much like the Brick, a hardware gadget you tap to block access to certain apps—having a hardware option to shut off the distractions around you is meaningfully different than just trying to use software productivity tools on your device.

#Busy #Bar #Gadget #People #Leavehacks,gadgets,smart home,apps,distractions,productivity,design

SAVE $20: As of June 29, the Google TV Streamer 4K is on sale for $79.99 at Amazon. That’s a 20% discount on the list price.

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Looking for a simple way to upgrade your streaming setup? Sounds like it’s time to invest in a streaming stick.

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This streaming device also gives you great quality. It supports up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision and works with Dolby Atmos-compatible speakers for more immersive, 3D-style sound. Thanks to its powerful processor, it runs fast, and it has double the memory compared to the previous generation of this device. It also includes a redesigned remote with voice control and smart home control. You can even find the remote if lost by making it ring.

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#streaming #stick #deal #Save #Google #Streamer">Best streaming stick deal: Save on Google TV Streamer 4K SAVE : As of June 29, the Google TV Streamer 4K is on sale for .99 at Amazon. That’s a 20% discount on the list price. .99 at Amazon .99 Save   Looking for a simple way to upgrade your streaming setup? Sounds like it’s time to invest in a streaming stick. These handy pieces of tech plug straight into your TV to give you easy and quick access to apps, streaming platforms, and live TV options. And as of June 29, the Google TV Streamer 4K is on sale for off the list price, now down to .99. Mashable Deals By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. This streaming device also gives you great quality. It supports up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision and works with Dolby Atmos-compatible speakers for more immersive, 3D-style sound. Thanks to its powerful processor, it runs fast, and it has double the memory compared to the previous generation of this device. It also includes a redesigned remote with voice control and smart home control. You can even find the remote if lost by making it ring.And of course, you’ll have access to all the major streaming apps like Netflix, Prime Video, and more. Plus, over 800 free live TV channels from apps like Pluto TV and Tubi are at your fingertips. Mashable Deals By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. This Google Streamer deal is available at Amazon right now. #streaming #stick #deal #Save #Google #Streamer

Google TV Streamer 4K is on sale for $79.99 at Amazon. That’s a 20% discount on the list price.

$79.99 at Amazon
$99.99 Save $20

 

Looking for a simple way to upgrade your streaming setup? Sounds like it’s time to invest in a streaming stick.

These handy pieces of tech plug straight into your TV to give you easy and quick access to apps, streaming platforms, and live TV options. And as of June 29, the Google TV Streamer 4K is on sale for $20 off the list price, now down to $79.99.

Mashable Deals

By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

This streaming device also gives you great quality. It supports up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision and works with Dolby Atmos-compatible speakers for more immersive, 3D-style sound. Thanks to its powerful processor, it runs fast, and it has double the memory compared to the previous generation of this device. It also includes a redesigned remote with voice control and smart home control. You can even find the remote if lost by making it ring.

And of course, you’ll have access to all the major streaming apps like Netflix, Prime Video, and more. Plus, over 800 free live TV channels from apps like Pluto TV and Tubi are at your fingertips.

This Google Streamer deal is available at Amazon right now.

#streaming #stick #deal #Save #Google #Streamer">Best streaming stick deal: Save $20 on Google TV Streamer 4K

SAVE $20: As of June 29, the Google TV Streamer 4K is on sale for $79.99 at Amazon. That’s a 20% discount on the list price.

$79.99 at Amazon
$99.99 Save $20

 

Looking for a simple way to upgrade your streaming setup? Sounds like it’s time to invest in a streaming stick.

These handy pieces of tech plug straight into your TV to give you easy and quick access to apps, streaming platforms, and live TV options. And as of June 29, the Google TV Streamer 4K is on sale for $20 off the list price, now down to $79.99.

Mashable Deals

By signing up, you agree to receive recurring automated SMS marketing messages from Mashable Deals at the number provided. Msg and data rates may apply. Up to 2 messages/day. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Consent is not a condition of purchase. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

This streaming device also gives you great quality. It supports up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision and works with Dolby Atmos-compatible speakers for more immersive, 3D-style sound. Thanks to its powerful processor, it runs fast, and it has double the memory compared to the previous generation of this device. It also includes a redesigned remote with voice control and smart home control. You can even find the remote if lost by making it ring.

And of course, you’ll have access to all the major streaming apps like Netflix, Prime Video, and more. Plus, over 800 free live TV channels from apps like Pluto TV and Tubi are at your fingertips.

This Google Streamer deal is available at Amazon right now.

#streaming #stick #deal #Save #Google #Streamer
China’s Zhipu AI (Z.ai) released its open-weight GLM-5.2, and some researchers have claimed that it matches Mythos in certain bug-finding and cybersecurity scenarios. While GLM lags behind models from Anthropic and OpenAI in other, more general tasks, it seems that China has dramatically reduced the gap in the capabilities between its models and those of the US.

This level of advancement is particularly concerning to the US government, which has worked to restrict China’s access to powerful models like Anthropic’s Mythos and Fable, as well as the hardware necessary to train and run them. The Trump administration views Mythos and other advanced AI models capable of identifying vulnerabilities as serious national security threats. Recently, OpenAI unveiled GPT-5.6, which has also raised concerns about its potential for misuse and has limited access to it.

Because GLM is an open-weight model, it can be downloaded and run by anyone on readily available hardware. That gives it great flexibility and allows power users deep access, but it also makes it ripe for abuse by bad actors who can run it with little oversight.

#Chinas #Z.ai #claims #match #Mythos #cybersecurityAI,News,Policy,Politics,Security,Tech">China’s Z.ai claims it can match Mythos on cybersecurityChina’s Zhipu AI (Z.ai) released its open-weight GLM-5.2, and some researchers have claimed that it matches Mythos in certain bug-finding and cybersecurity scenarios. While GLM lags behind models from Anthropic and OpenAI in other, more general tasks, it seems that China has dramatically reduced the gap in the capabilities between its models and those of the US.This level of advancement is particularly concerning to the US government, which has worked to restrict China’s access to powerful models like Anthropic’s Mythos and Fable, as well as the hardware necessary to train and run them. The Trump administration views Mythos and other advanced AI models capable of identifying vulnerabilities as serious national security threats. Recently, OpenAI unveiled GPT-5.6, which has also raised concerns about its potential for misuse and has limited access to it.Because GLM is an open-weight model, it can be downloaded and run by anyone on readily available hardware. That gives it great flexibility and allows power users deep access, but it also makes it ripe for abuse by bad actors who can run it with little oversight.#Chinas #Z.ai #claims #match #Mythos #cybersecurityAI,News,Policy,Politics,Security,Tech

Z.ai) released its open-weight GLM-5.2, and some researchers have claimed that it matches Mythos in certain bug-finding and cybersecurity scenarios. While GLM lags behind models from Anthropic and OpenAI in other, more general tasks, it seems that China has dramatically reduced the gap in the capabilities between its models and those of the US.

This level of advancement is particularly concerning to the US government, which has worked to restrict China’s access to powerful models like Anthropic’s Mythos and Fable, as well as the hardware necessary to train and run them. The Trump administration views Mythos and other advanced AI models capable of identifying vulnerabilities as serious national security threats. Recently, OpenAI unveiled GPT-5.6, which has also raised concerns about its potential for misuse and has limited access to it.

Because GLM is an open-weight model, it can be downloaded and run by anyone on readily available hardware. That gives it great flexibility and allows power users deep access, but it also makes it ripe for abuse by bad actors who can run it with little oversight.

#Chinas #Z.ai #claims #match #Mythos #cybersecurityAI,News,Policy,Politics,Security,Tech">China’s Z.ai claims it can match Mythos on cybersecurity

China’s Zhipu AI (Z.ai) released its open-weight GLM-5.2, and some researchers have claimed that it matches Mythos in certain bug-finding and cybersecurity scenarios. While GLM lags behind models from Anthropic and OpenAI in other, more general tasks, it seems that China has dramatically reduced the gap in the capabilities between its models and those of the US.

This level of advancement is particularly concerning to the US government, which has worked to restrict China’s access to powerful models like Anthropic’s Mythos and Fable, as well as the hardware necessary to train and run them. The Trump administration views Mythos and other advanced AI models capable of identifying vulnerabilities as serious national security threats. Recently, OpenAI unveiled GPT-5.6, which has also raised concerns about its potential for misuse and has limited access to it.

Because GLM is an open-weight model, it can be downloaded and run by anyone on readily available hardware. That gives it great flexibility and allows power users deep access, but it also makes it ripe for abuse by bad actors who can run it with little oversight.

#Chinas #Z.ai #claims #match #Mythos #cybersecurityAI,News,Policy,Politics,Security,Tech

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