Latest News
Meta Revives Facial Recognition Technology to Combat ‘Celeb Bait’ Scams!
Published
41 mins agoon
Three years after discontinuing its facial recognition technology due to privacy concerns and regulatory scrutiny, Meta (formerly Facebook) is reintroducing the software as part of a new effort to crack down on “celeb bait” scams. The social media giant announced on Tuesday that it will begin testing facial recognition technology again, enrolling around 50,000 public figures in a trial aimed at protecting them from fraudulent ads using their likeness.
Trial Overview
The trial will automatically compare celebrities’ Facebook profile pictures with images used in suspicious scam advertisements. If a match is found and Meta determines the ad is fraudulent, it will block the ad from appearing. Celebrities involved in the trial will be notified and given the option to opt out if they prefer not to participate.
Global Launch and Limitations
Set to launch globally in December, the trial will not be available in certain regions, including the European Union, Britain, South Korea, and U.S. states like Texas and Illinois, where Meta lacks the necessary regulatory approvals.
Intentions Behind the Revival
Monika Bickert, Meta’s vice president of content policy, explained the company’s intention behind the trial.
“The goal is to provide as much protection as possible for public figures. They can opt out if they choose, but we want to make this protection readily available and simple for them,” she said during a press briefing.
Meta’s decision to revive facial recognition comes as it tries to balance using technology to tackle the rising number of online scams while addressing privacy concerns. When Meta discontinued its facial recognition system in 2021, it cited growing societal concerns and deleted the face scan data of one billion users.
Legal Pressures
However, the company now faces legal pressure, including a $1.4 billion settlement with the state of Texas for allegedly collecting biometric data illegally, along with multiple lawsuits accusing it of failing to curb “celeb bait” scams.
Data Privacy Assurances
The trial promises to delete any facial recognition data generated during ad comparisons immediately, regardless of whether a scam is detected. Bickert assured that the tool underwent a “robust privacy and risk review process” both internally and externally, involving discussions with regulators, policymakers, and privacy experts before implementation.
Future Applications of Facial Recognition
In addition to targeting scam ads, Meta is also considering using facial recognition for account recovery. The company plans to test this feature for non-celebrity users on both Facebook and Instagram, allowing them to regain access to compromised or locked accounts through facial recognition verification.
Enhanced User Experience
This feature aims to streamline identity verification processes for users who may have lost access due to hacking or forgotten passwords. By leveraging facial recognition technology, Meta hopes to provide a more efficient recovery method compared to traditional verification techniques.
Conclusion
Meta’s revival of facial recognition technology reflects its evolving approach to balancing privacy concerns with the need for enhanced security and fraud prevention on its platforms. As the landscape of online scams continues to grow more sophisticated, this initiative aims not only to protect public figures but also to enhance user safety across its services.
Call for Vigilance
As Meta moves forward with this technology, it underscores the importance of vigilance among users regarding their digital identities and personal data. The ongoing developments in AI-driven technologies necessitate robust security measures and informed consent practices to ensure that user privacy remains a priority alongside innovation.
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Latest News
Marvel and HMD Global Join Forces for Venom-Themed HMD Fusion Smartphone!
Published
2 hours agoon
October 23, 2024HMD Global has teamed up with Marvel to launch a special Venom-themed edition of its modular HMD Fusion smartphone. This collaboration ties in with the release of Marvel’s upcoming film, Venom: The Last Dance, and brings the “Ultimate Symbiotic Phone” to fans. The special edition will feature a design inspired by Venom’s dark and edgy persona while retaining the core specifications of the standard HMD Fusion.
Core Features of the HMD Fusion
The HMD Fusion, first revealed at IFA 2024 in September, comes with impressive specs:
- 6.56-inch HD+ LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate
- Powered by a Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipset
- Up to 12GB of RAM
- 108-megapixel dual rear camera and a 50-megapixel front camera
- Runs on Android 14
- 5,000mAh battery with 33W fast charging
Modular Design
One of the standout features of the HMD Fusion is its modular design, allowing users to easily repair or customize parts like the display, back cover, battery, and charging port. Additionally, it offers “Smart Outfits,” interchangeable cases that add hardware features such as a ring light or wireless charging capabilities.
Venom-Themed Edition
While specific design details of the Venom edition haven’t been fully disclosed, it is expected to reflect the sinister style of Marvel’s anti-hero. Fans can anticipate a Venom-inspired aesthetic that enhances the device’s appeal to both Marvel enthusiasts and smartphone collectors.
Unique Features
The Venom-themed HMD Fusion is set to release around the film’s premiere on October 25. It will likely include exclusive software features inspired by the character, such as custom ringtones and animations that resonate with the film’s themes.
Pricing and Availability
The price for the Venom-themed edition is yet to be confirmed but is expected to be in the same range as the standard HMD Fusion, which starts at EUR 249 (approximately ₹24,000). Further details on the design and availability will be revealed soon, making it a must-watch for fans of unique smartphone designs and Marvel collaborations.
Pre-Order Information
The standard HMD Fusion is now available for pre-order in various markets, including the United States for around $300. However, specific details regarding pre-orders for the Venom edition are anticipated closer to its release date.
Conclusion
The collaboration between HMD Global and Marvel represents an exciting intersection of technology and pop culture. By launching a Venom-themed version of its modular smartphone, HMD Global not only caters to fans of the franchise but also showcases its innovative approach to smartphone design.
As consumers increasingly seek personalized devices that reflect their interests, this partnership could set a precedent for future collaborations in the tech industry. With its unique features and strong branding tied to Marvel’s popular character, the Venom-themed HMD Fusion is poised to attract attention in both the smartphone market and among comic book fans alike.
Artificial Intelligence
Airtel’s Sunil Mittal Exposes AI Voice Cloning Scam That Nearly Defrauded Bharti Enterprises!
Published
6 hours agoon
October 23, 2024At the NDTV World Summit, Sunil Bharti Mittal, Chairman of Bharti Enterprises, revealed a startling incident involving an AI-powered scam that nearly defrauded his company. The scam involved the use of artificial intelligence to clone Mittal’s voice, fooling one of his executives in Dubai into believing they were speaking with the chairman himself. The scammer demanded a substantial money transfer, and the AI-generated voice was so convincing that Mittal acknowledged, “It was perfectly articulated, just as I would speak.”
Quick Thinking Saves the Day
Fortunately, the vigilant executive quickly realized something was amiss. “The official, who was alert and sensible, immediately recognized it was a scam,” Mittal shared, stressing how close the company came to being defrauded. He noted that the AI-cloned voice was almost indistinguishable from his own, making the scam particularly difficult to detect.
Implications of AI Misuse
Mittal’s warning sheds light on the rising misuse of AI in sophisticated fraud schemes. Cybercriminals are increasingly employing AI to clone voices and deceive victims, posing significant challenges for companies and individuals alike.
“Anyone who wasn’t vigilant could have easily fallen for it,” Mittal cautioned, underscoring the complexity and effectiveness of these AI-driven scams.
Broader Concerns About AI Misuse
In addition to voice cloning, Mittal expressed concerns over other ways AI could be exploited for fraud. He warned that AI could potentially be used to forge digital signatures or create deepfake videos, allowing criminals to manipulate individuals during virtual meetings. This growing threat demands heightened awareness and caution as AI becomes more integrated into both business and personal interactions.
The Dual Nature of AI
However, Mittal emphasized the dual nature of AI, acknowledging its vast potential for innovation while warning against its misuse. “We must protect our societies from the evils of AI while also embracing its benefits,” he remarked. He called for a balanced approach where the advantages of AI are harnessed responsibly while safeguards are put in place to prevent its exploitation.
The Competitive Edge of AI
Despite the risks, Mittal also highlighted the strategic importance of AI for businesses and nations. He warned that those who fail to adopt AI could fall behind in terms of innovation and competitiveness.
“Companies and nations that do not embrace AI will be left behind,” Mittal stressed, urging swift and responsible adoption of AI technologies.
A Rising Threat: AI-Powered Scams
The attempted fraud at Bharti Enterprises is part of a broader trend of AI-enabled scams that have been on the rise. AI technologies are increasingly being used to replicate voices and impersonate individuals, often to extract money or sensitive information.
Notable Incidents
In some instances, scammers are using AI to conduct “digital arrest” scams, impersonating law enforcement officials in virtual settings to pressure victims into making payments. Mittal’s warning follows several high-profile cases of AI-driven fraud. One such incident involved SP Oswal, Chairman of Vardhman Group, who lost ₹7 crore after scammers posing as government officials used fake documents and AI-generated virtual environments to trick him into making a payment.
Conclusion
As AI continues to evolve, so too do the methods used by cybercriminals. Mittal’s experience serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of vigilance and the need for robust security measures to protect against the growing threat of AI-powered scams.
Call for Action
The incident emphasizes the necessity for businesses and individuals alike to adopt advanced security protocols and maintain awareness regarding emerging technologies. As cyber threats become more sophisticated with advancements in AI, proactive measures will be essential in safeguarding against potential frauds in an increasingly digital world.
Latest News
X Introduces Radar: A Game-Changing Real-Time Search Tool for Premium+ Subscribers!
Published
8 hours agoon
October 23, 2024X, formerly known as Twitter, has rolled out a new feature called Radar, available exclusively to its Premium+ subscribers. Designed to enhance real-time engagement, Radar aims to revolutionize how users track live content by offering powerful, real-time search capabilities. This feature is poised to transform how people stay updated on trending topics, breaking news, and live events.
What Is X’s New Tool, Radar?
Radar is a cutting-edge tool that provides Premium+ users with instant access to up-to-the-second updates on everything from viral moments to major events. Unlike conventional search functions that rely on historical data or general algorithms, Radar focuses on delivering real-time results. Whether it’s the latest political developments, sports updates, or breaking news, users can access fresh content as it happens.
Evolution of the Tool
Originally known as “Insights” and initially offered to Verified Organizations for monitoring trends, the tool has been rebranded and expanded to Premium+ subscribers. Radar is particularly useful for those who need immediate access to the latest information—journalists, content creators, marketers, or even casual users eager to stay ahead of social conversations will find it invaluable.
How Radar Works
Leveraging X’s massive and constantly updating data stream, Radar surfaces relevant content based on live events. By entering keywords or hashtags, users can access the latest posts related to their query, with results filtered by both time and relevance. This functionality allows Premium+ subscribers to follow discussions in real time, offering a more dynamic and immersive experience compared to what regular users receive.
Example Use Cases
For example, during a high-stakes sports match or an election night, Radar provides continuously updated posts, images, and videos, ensuring that users don’t miss out on key moments. This constant refresh of information gives Premium+ subscribers a competitive edge in staying informed.
A Premium Feature for Premium Users
By limiting Radar to Premium+ subscribers, X is positioning the tool as a high-value feature for its top-tier members. This move aligns with the platform’s strategy of offering exclusive tools to its paying user base. Alongside Radar, Premium+ members already enjoy perks such as an ad-free experience, longer post visibility, and the ability to edit posts.
Subscription Details
The Premium+ subscription is priced at $16 per month or $168 per year when purchased via the web. It also includes a verified checkmark. The introduction of Radar could attract more users to upgrade their subscriptions as the demand for real-time information continues to grow in today’s fast-paced digital landscape.
Competitive Landscape
As X continues to evolve its platform and introduce new features, Radar represents a significant step in the company’s effort to monetize its offerings more effectively. By catering to the needs of users who rely on immediate access to information, X is solidifying its position as a go-to platform for real-time updates.
Market Context
The launch of Radar comes at a time when competition in the social media space is intensifying with platforms like Bluesky and Threads emerging as alternatives. By providing enhanced functionalities like Radar, X aims to retain existing users while attracting new ones who seek timely insights into current events.
Conclusion
With the introduction of Radar, X is not only enhancing user experience but also reinforcing its commitment to providing valuable tools that meet the demands of modern digital communication. The focus on real-time engagement positions X favorably in an increasingly competitive market where timely information is paramount.
As this feature rolls out and evolves further, it will be interesting to see how it impacts user engagement on the platform and whether it successfully converts more users into paying subscribers.
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