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Welcome back, Hard Targets! As always, we're thrilled to bring you the latest in cybersecurity and technology. In this issue, we delve into a range of exciting topics, keeping you at the forefront of digital safety.

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Test Your Cybersecurity Knowledge with Our Quick Quiz. Let's See If You're a True Hard Target!

Question 1: In cybersecurity, what is 'Credential Stuffing'?

• a) A method for securely storing user credentials.

• b) An attack where stolen account credentials are used to gain unauthorized access to user accounts.

• c) A process of encrypting user credentials for added security.

• d) A technique for creating strong passwords.

Question 2: What is the primary purpose of 'Patch Management' in cybersecurity?

• a) To manage the distribution of network resources.

• b) To conduct regular audits of system security.

• c) To ensure that software updates and bug fixes are applied in a timely manner.

• d) To monitor network traffic for signs of malicious activity.

Question 3: Which of the following best describes 'Microsegmentation' in network security?

• a) Dividing a network into smaller, more manageable segments.

• b) Implementing minimal security measures for cost-saving.

• c) Reducing the size of data packets for faster transmission.

• d) Decreasing the number of users in a network for security purposes.

Answers:

1. b) An attack where stolen account credentials are used to gain unauthorized access to user accounts.

2. c) To ensure that software updates and bug fixes are applied in a timely manner.

3. a) Dividing a network into smaller, more manageable segments.

Google Delays Gemini AI Launch to 2024

Source: Engadget

Summary: Google has reportedly postponed the launch of its next-generation AI model, Gemini, to 2024. Initially announced at I/O 2023 as a competitor to OpenAI's GPT-4, Gemini was expected to debut by the end of this year. However, it faced challenges with non-English queries, leading CEO Sundar Pichai to delay its release. Gemini aims to combine various types of data like images and text for advanced tasks and is anticipated to enhance Google's existing AI products, including Bard, Google Assistant, and Search.

What’s the importance of this article? This development signifies a major shift in Google's AI strategy and reflects the growing competition in the AI space. The delay indicates Google's commitment to refining Gemini's capabilities, ensuring it meets high standards for diverse language processing and safety.

How could this affect me? For users and developers interested in AI advancements, this delay may mean waiting longer for new and improved AI capabilities from Google. However, it also suggests that when Gemini is released, it will offer a more robust and versatile tool for handling complex AI tasks across languages.

PlayStation Removes Purchased Discovery Shows

Source: Business Insider

Summary: Sony is removing hundreds of Discovery titles from PlayStation video libraries despite users having already purchased them. Titles such as "19 Kids and Counting" and "Say Yes to the Dress" will no longer be accessible after December 31, due to changes in content licensing arrangements. This follows Sony's decision in August 2021 to discontinue the sale of movies and TV shows on the PlayStation store, attributing this to the growth of subscription-based and ad-based streaming services. The removal of these purchased titles raises concerns about digital ownership rights and the reliability of digital purchases.

What’s the importance of this article? The removal of purchased content highlights a significant issue in digital content ownership and consumer rights in the era of digital media. It underscores the impermanence of digital purchases and the influence of licensing agreements on content availability.

How could this affect me? If you've purchased digital content from PlayStation or similar platforms, this news could impact your library and access to previously bought shows or movies. It raises awareness about the potential risks and limitations of digital ownership, urging consumers to consider the longevity and accessibility of their digital purchases.

Paramount Global Stock Soars Amid Potential Apple TV+ Bundle

Source: The Motley Fool

Summary: Paramount Global's stock saw a significant 9% rise following reports of potential collaboration with Apple to bundle their video streaming services. The Wall Street Journal reported discussions about a combined offering of Paramount+ and Apple TV+ at a possibly lower price than the services' individual charges. While neither company has officially commented, this potential alliance indicates an effort to bolster financial viability amidst challenges like high costs and customer defections in the streaming industry.

What’s the importance of this article? This news is noteworthy as it reflects the evolving landscape of the streaming industry, where major players are exploring collaborations to enhance their market position and offer better value to consumers.

How could this affect me? If you're a consumer of streaming services, this potential bundling could offer more content options at a potentially lower cost, impacting how you choose and pay for your entertainment services.

OnePlus Open: A New Standard in Foldable Phone Durability

Source: Wccftech

Summary: The OnePlus Open has set a new standard in foldable phone durability. In a recent test conducted by popular phone tester JerryRigEverything, the OnePlus Open demonstrated remarkable resilience, surpassing expectations and previous models like the OnePlus 10 Pro and OnePlus 11. Despite skepticism, the phone withstood various stress tests, including bending and pressure, showcasing its robust build quality. The durability test, while extreme, indicates the phone's ability to endure daily usage rigors, making it a standout choice in the foldable phone market.

What’s the importance of this article? This article highlights the growing focus on durability in foldable phones, an area that has previously been a concern for consumers. The OnePlus Open's performance in rigorous tests reassures potential buyers about the longevity and reliability of foldable technology.

How could this affect me? If you're considering a foldable phone, the OnePlus Open's proven durability might sway your decision. Knowing that the phone can withstand everyday wear and tear offers peace of mind and could be a decisive factor in your purchase.

AI Boosts Quest for Developing New Materials

Source: Axios

Summary: Google DeepMind's researchers have made a breakthrough in material science using AI. They created a model that discovered over 2.2 million hypothetical materials, out of which 381,000 were stable new materials. This AI-driven approach marks a significant departure from traditional methods of discovering materials, which relied on altering existing stable materials. The new method leverages data from existing databases to train the AI, enabling it to propose potential stable material structures.

What’s the importance of this article? The significance of this development lies in its potential to revolutionize material science. By harnessing AI, researchers can now explore a broader range of materials much faster than before. This advancement could lead to the discovery of materials with novel properties that are crucial for various technologies, including batteries, solar cells, and semiconductor chips.

How could this affect me? While this advancement may not directly impact individuals in the short term, it paves the way for technological innovations that could transform various industries. The new materials developed could lead to more efficient electronic devices, better energy storage solutions, and advancements in computing. This progress in material science, driven by AI, signifies a substantial leap forward in technological capabilities that can eventually benefit consumers.

Massive Best Buy Sale Right Now – Here's the 25 Deals I'd Buy

Source: Tom's Guide

Summary: The article from Tom's Guide, authored by Millie Davis-Williams on December 1, 2023, highlights a significant 3-day sale event at Best Buy. This sale includes a wide range of discounted products, from MacBook Air laptops to large-screen TVs, appliances, gaming consoles, and more. Noteworthy deals include the 13-inch MacBook Air M2 for $899, a 75-inch Fire TV for $549, and discounts on the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra, PS5 Spider-Man 2 Bundle, and various other electronics.

What’s the importance of this article? This article is significant as it informs readers about major discounts on popular electronics at Best Buy. These deals provide an excellent opportunity for consumers to purchase high-quality tech products at reduced prices, making technology more accessible and affordable.

How could this affect me? For readers interested in upgrading their tech gadgets or purchasing new ones, this Best Buy sale could be a timely opportunity to do so while saving money. Whether you are looking for a new laptop, a bigger TV, or the latest gaming console, this sale covers a broad spectrum of tech needs and preferences.

Marques Brownlee Reveals Biggest Concern with Tesla Cybertruck After Testing

Source: Dexerto

Summary: Marques Brownlee, a renowned tech YouTuber, shared his insights on the Tesla Cybertruck after a test drive. Brownlee's primary concern was the truck's design, which has been controversial since its inception, and its higher-than-expected price. He noted, "It's more expensive than we originally thought. It doesn’t have that price advantage... It’s no longer an advantage that we thought it was going to be.” Additionally, Brownlee observed inconsistencies in build quality, with varying levels of panel gaps and build quality in different Cybertrucks.

What’s the importance of this article? This article is important as it provides potential Tesla Cybertruck buyers with a real-world perspective from a reputable tech influencer. Brownlee's concerns about design, cost, and build quality are crucial for consumers considering this high-profile electric vehicle.

How could this affect me? If you're interested in the Tesla Cybertruck, Brownlee's observations might influence your decision. Understanding the issues of design preference, pricing, and build quality variability can help you make a more informed purchase decision, especially if considering a high-value investment like the Cybertruck.

Smart Home Security: Safeguarding Your Connected Home Across Platforms

Summary: This tip explores essential strategies for securing smart home ecosystems, and ensuring the safety of interconnected devices across various platforms like Apple, Android, Windows, Meta Quests, AI devices, and Linux systems. It emphasizes the importance of comprehensive security measures in the increasingly connected home environment.

Why is this important? As our homes become smarter with interconnected devices, they also become more vulnerable to cyber threats. Unsecured smart devices can be entry points for hackers, leading to privacy breaches, data theft, or even physical security risks. Implementing robust smart home security measures is crucial to protect not just our personal information but also our physical safety.

How to Implement:

1. Secure Wi-Fi Networks: Use strong, unique passwords for your Wi-Fi networks and ensure the router's firmware is regularly updated.

2. Regular Device Updates: Keep all smart devices updated with the latest firmware to patch any security vulnerabilities.

3. Network Segmentation: Isolate smart devices on a separate network from your main computing devices to limit the spread of potential intrusions.

4. Manage Device Permissions: Regularly review and adjust the permissions and privacy settings of each smart device.

5. Implement Secure Remote Access: Use secure methods like VPNs for accessing your smart home systems remotely.

6. Two-Factor Authentication: Activate two-factor authentication for an additional security layer on smart device accounts and associated apps.

7. Handle AI-Driven Devices with Care: Be mindful of the data collected and stored by AI-driven devices and understand their privacy policies.

8. Educate on Phishing Attacks: Stay informed about phishing and social engineering techniques that could target smart home devices.

9. Physical Security Measures: Complement digital security with physical measures like securing access points to your home.

10. Conduct Regular Security Audits: Periodically review and update your smart home security practices to address new threats and vulnerabilities.

Disabling Apple's iOS 17 NameDrop Feature

Source: CNET

Summary: Apple's iOS 17 includes a feature called NameDrop, which enables users to easily share contact information by raising their phone. While some find this feature convenient, there are concerns about accidental sharing of contact information or potential theft. To address security concerns, users have the option to disable NameDrop. The process involves going to Settings, selecting General, navigating to the AirDrop tab, and toggling off the "Bring Devices Together" option. This feature is automatically enabled in iOS 17 and on new iPhone 15 devices, making it important for users to manually disable it if they choose to.

What’s the importance of this article? This information is crucial for iOS 17 users who value their privacy and security. Understanding how to manage NameDrop's settings can prevent unwanted sharing of personal information and enhance user control over their device.

How could this affect me? If you're using an iPhone with iOS 17, being aware of this feature and knowing how to disable it can protect you from unintentional sharing of your contact details. This knowledge is especially important in public settings where the risk of data theft is higher.

iOS 17.1.2: Apple Urgently Releases Update for All iPhone Users

Source: Forbes

Summary: Apple has unexpectedly released a crucial update, iOS 17.1.2, for all iPhone users. This update, following closely on the heels of iOS 17.1.1, aims to address critical security concerns. It is compatible with iPhones released from 2018 onwards, including the iPhone Xs, Xr, and newer models, along with both second and third-generation iPhone SE models.

What’s the importance of this article? The urgency of this release is highlighted by the inclusion of significant security fixes. Notably, the update doesn't introduce new features but focuses solely on enhancing the security of Apple's web browser engine, WebKit. It addresses issues where sensitive information could be disclosed and fixes a vulnerability that might allow arbitrary code execution.

How could this affect me? For iPhone users, this update is vital for ensuring the security of their devices against potential exploits. The addressed vulnerabilities are serious, with possible implications for data privacy and device integrity. Updating to iOS 17.1.2 is strongly recommended to safeguard against these risks and maintain optimal device security.

Zoom’s New Apple TV Meeting App Uses Your iPhone as the Camera

Source: The Verge

Summary: Zoom has launched a new application for Apple TV, which uses the iPhone as a camera for meetings. This development follows Apple's tvOS 17 update that enabled Continuity Camera, allowing the use of an iPhone or iPad as a webcam for FaceTime on a TV. Now, with Zoom's app, users can conduct meetings using their Apple TV with the iPhone serving as the camera. The process involves logging into the app and connecting the phone the same as with FaceTime. The app includes features like starting/joining meetings, inviting people, and viewing in-meeting chats.

What’s the importance of this article? The article is important as it introduces a significant enhancement in the video conferencing experience for Apple users. This new capability simplifies setting up video meetings at home or in office meeting rooms, providing a more comfortable and versatile environment for virtual meetings.

How could this affect me? If you are an Apple TV and iPhone user, this integration can greatly improve your remote meeting experience. It enables more flexibility and comfort, especially for those working from home, by allowing you to conduct meetings from your couch or in an office setting with minimal setup.

Apple to Decentralize Another Pro Feature to iPhone 16 Standard Models

Source: SPARROWS NEWS

Summary: Apple is set to bring a significant change to the upcoming iPhone 16 series by introducing a customizable Action Button across all models, including the standard versions. This feature, which replaces the traditional Ringer Slider, was initially introduced in the iPhone 15 Pro lineup. The Action Button in iPhone 16 will incorporate capacitive technology and a force sensor, allowing it to detect various pressure levels and offer a more dynamic user experience. This button will provide quick access to different modes like silent, focus, and auxiliary functions, as well as shortcuts for the camera and flashlight.

What’s the importance of this article? This article is important as it highlights Apple's strategy to standardize advanced features across its product line, enhancing the user experience even in standard models. The introduction of the Action Button in all iPhone 16 models signifies Apple's commitment to innovation and providing a cohesive experience to all users.

How could this affect me? If you're planning to upgrade to the iPhone 16 or are a current Apple user, this feature could significantly enhance how you interact with your device. The customizable Action Button offers more control and quicker access to various functions, potentially improving usability and efficiency.

Apple Ecosystem Security Tip of the Issue

Smart Home Security on Apple Devices: Ensuring a Secure Connected Ecosystem

Summary: This tip focuses on implementing smart home security practices specifically tailored for Apple's ecosystem, covering iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and watchOS. It provides guidance on optimizing security settings and features inherent in Apple devices to protect your connected home environment.

Why is this important? With the increasing integration of smart home devices with Apple's ecosystem, ensuring their security becomes paramount. Apple devices often serve as central control points for smart homes, and securing these devices ensures the overall safety and privacy of your home network and connected devices.

How to Implement:

1. Strong Wi-Fi Security: Use WPA3 encryption on your Wi-Fi router and set a robust password. For Apple routers, ensure the latest firmware is installed via the AirPort Utility.

2. Regularly Update Devices: Keep your iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and watchOS devices updated with the latest software to ensure security patches and updates are applied.

3. Network Segmentation: Use the ability to create a guest network on your Apple router to isolate smart devices from your primary devices.

4. Configure Privacy Settings: Regularly check the privacy settings on your Apple devices, ensuring that smart home apps only have the necessary permissions.

5. Secure Remote Access: Utilize Apple's HomeKit for secure remote access to your smart home devices, ensuring a secure connection via end-to-end encryption.

6. Two-Factor Authentication: Enable two-factor authentication for your Apple ID and any associated smart home device apps.

7. Understand Siri and HomeKit Security: Be aware of the data Siri collects and utilize HomeKit Secure Video for encrypted storage of camera footage.

8. Enable Find My Network: Use Apple's Find My Network to locate lost or stolen Apple devices that are central to your smart home ecosystem.

9. Physical Security Enhancements: Use features like Activation Lock on iOS devices to prevent unauthorized use if they are lost or stolen.

10. Regular Security Audits: Periodically review your Apple device and HomeKit settings to ensure they are up-to-date and configured for optimal security.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Leak Suggests Ultra-Thin Bezels

Source: TechRadar

Summary: The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is rumored to feature "the thinnest bezel and the thickest middle frame" in smartphone design. A reliable source, @UniverseIce, shared this information alongside a render showing the proposed design. The bezel is expected to be only 1.52mm thick, and the middle frame around 1.85mm thick, totaling 3.37mm. This design approach could lead to a distinctive aesthetic, particularly in the black version of the phone, where the frame and bezel would blend seamlessly.

What’s the importance of this article? This leak is significant as it hints at Samsung's continued innovation in smartphone design, particularly in the competitive field of display aesthetics. The Galaxy S24 Ultra's design could set new standards for screen-to-body ratio, impacting user experience and overall device appeal.

How could this affect me? If you're considering upgrading to a new smartphone, especially a high-end model like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, this information could influence your decision. The unique design could offer a more immersive viewing experience and a sleeker look, important factors for many smartphone users.

Google Chrome's Emergency Update to Patch Zero-Day Exploit

Source: ZDNET

Summary: Google Chrome has recently discovered its sixth zero-day exploit of the year, CVE-2023-6345. This serious vulnerability, an integer overflow in Skia, could potentially allow a remote attacker who has compromised the renderer process to perform a sandbox escape via a malicious file. Google Chrome has promptly released an update, version 119.0.6045, to address this and other security issues.

What’s the importance of this article? This article emphasizes the importance of regularly updating web browsers to protect against vulnerabilities. With Chrome being one of the most widely used browsers, addressing such security flaws is crucial to safeguard millions of users worldwide.

How could this affect me? As a Chrome user, failing to update your browser could leave you vulnerable to cyber attacks exploiting this zero-day vulnerability. Regularly updating your browser is a simple yet effective way to ensure your online activities remain secure.

Samsung's Upcoming Galaxy Book 4 with Meteor Lake CPUs

Source: Tom's Hardware

Summary: Samsung is set to be among the first to launch a laptop powered by Intel's Meteor Lake CPUs, with the Galaxy Book 4 expected to be announced on December 15, 2023. This announcement comes a day after Meteor Lake's official launch. Samsung's interest in Meteor Lake is attributed to its AI capabilities, specifically its neural processing unit (NPU), which will be utilized to enhance the performance of Samsung's large language model, 'Samsung Gauss'. The Galaxy Book 4 will likely feature Intel Core Ultra processors, including Core Ultra 7 and possibly Core Ultra 9 chips.

What’s the importance of this article? This article highlights Samsung's foray into advanced AI capabilities in its laptops, marking a significant step in integrating cutting-edge technology into consumer electronics.

How could this affect me? For tech enthusiasts and consumers, the Galaxy Book 4's launch signifies an exciting advancement in laptop technology, especially for those interested in AI and high-performance computing. This could influence future laptop purchases and expectations regarding AI integration in personal devices.

Samsung & Google Security Tip of the Issue

Enhancing Smart Home Security on Samsung & Google Devices

Summary: This tip delves into strengthening smart home security, specifically focusing on Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel devices. It offers strategies to secure these devices, which often serve as control hubs for smart home systems, ensuring a fortified and safe smart home environment.

Why is this important? Samsung and Google devices are frequently at the heart of smart home ecosystems. Securing these devices is crucial because they manage various smart home functionalities, from controlling lights and thermostats to managing security cameras. Ensuring their security translates to a safer, more protected smart home network.

How to Implement:

1. Wi-Fi Network Security: Ensure your Wi-Fi network is protected with a strong password and WPA3 encryption. Regularly update your router's firmware, especially if you're using a Google Nest router.

2. Device Software Updates: Keep your Samsung and Google devices updated with the latest software versions to benefit from security patches and improvements.

3. Smart Home Device Management: Use dedicated smart home management apps like Samsung SmartThings or Google Home to centrally manage device settings and permissions.

4. Configure Device Security Settings: Regularly review the security and privacy settings on your devices. Enable features like screen locks and biometric authentication on Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel devices.

5. Secure Remote Access: Utilize secure methods for remote access, such as VPNs, especially when controlling your smart home devices from outside your home network.

6. Two-Factor Authentication: Activate two-factor authentication on Google accounts and any smart home device accounts linked to your Samsung or Google devices.

7. Regular Security Audits: Periodically review the security settings on your devices and connected smart home apps to identify any potential vulnerabilities.

8. Educate About Phishing and Scams: Stay informed about the latest phishing techniques and scams that target smart home devices, and educate your household members about them.

9. Physical Device Security: Utilize anti-theft features like Google's "Find My Device" and Samsung's "Find My Mobile" to locate, lock, or erase your devices if they are lost or stolen.

10. Use Secure Connections: Ensure that your smart home devices use encrypted connections for data transmission, particularly important for devices like security cameras and smart locks.

Meta Challenges FTC Over Right to Exploit Kids' Data

Source: The Register

Summary: Meta has initiated a lawsuit against the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), contesting the agency's authority to regulate the social advertising giant. The suit, filed in a federal court in Washington DC, claims that the FTC's structure and operation are unconstitutional. This action follows previous settlements between Meta (formerly Facebook) and the FTC over privacy violations. The current lawsuit aims to stop the FTC from modifying a 2020 settlement, which resulted in a $5 billion fine for Facebook but did not significantly change business practices violating user privacy. The FTC's proposed modifications include restrictions on data gathering, particularly concerning children and teens, and stronger privacy assessments for new products. Meta argues that these changes would cause irreparable harm to its business and contends that the FTC's enforcement actions are unconstitutional.

What’s the importance of this article? This legal challenge by Meta could have significant implications for consumer protection and privacy laws in the US. If Meta succeeds, it may weaken the FTC's ability to enforce privacy and data protection regulations, impacting how social media companies handle user data, especially that of minors.

How could this affect me? If you're a social media user or concerned about online privacy, especially for children, this case is crucial. A successful challenge by Meta could lead to more relaxed regulations around data usage by social networks, potentially affecting the privacy and security of user data, particularly for younger users.

3 Reasons Why Copilot Coming to Windows 10 Is a Terrible Idea

Source: XDA Developers

Summary: The article by João Carrasqueira discusses the drawbacks of Microsoft's decision to bring Copilot to Windows 10. The author highlights three main reasons why this move is detrimental: it adds no real value to Windows 10, signifies Microsoft's desperation to increase market share, and offers a limited and unimpressive version of Copilot.

What’s the importance of this article? This article is important as it provides insights into the potential negative impacts of Microsoft's strategy on Windows 10 users. It questions the company's motivations and highlights the lack of substantial improvements in the operating system.

How could this affect me? If you're a Windows 10 user, this development could affect your user experience. The introduction of Copilot might not bring any significant enhancement to your system and could potentially lead to unwanted features or a more cluttered interface.

OpenAI Agrees to Purchase $51 Million in AI Chips from Startup Backed by CEO Sam Altman

Source: WIRED

Summary: OpenAI, under the leadership of CEO Sam Altman, has signed a letter of intent to purchase $51 million worth of AI chips from Rain AI, a startup in which Altman has personally invested. Rain AI, located close to OpenAI's headquarters, is developing a neuromorphic processing unit (NPU), designed to replicate human brain features. This agreement, not previously reported, highlights the intertwining of Altman's personal investments with his professional responsibilities at OpenAI. The deal also underscores OpenAI's commitment to securing critical resources for its AI projects, amidst a "brutal crunch" for AI chips, as noted by Altman.

What’s the importance of this article? This article is significant as it sheds light on OpenAI's strategies to secure vital hardware for its AI initiatives. The investment in Rain AI's NPUs could potentially enhance OpenAI's computing power and energy efficiency, crucial for its ambitious AI projects like ChatGPT.

How could this affect me? If you're interested in the advancement of AI technologies, this development is a key indicator of the direction and pace of AI progress. For users and developers reliant on OpenAI's tools, improved hardware could mean more powerful and efficient AI models, impacting the quality and capabilities of AI applications you use or develop.

Microsoft, OpenAI, & Meta Security Tip of the Issue

Smart Home Security in the Microsoft, OpenAI, and Meta Ecosystem

Summary: This tip focuses on enhancing the security of smart home ecosystems involving Microsoft, OpenAI, and Meta products and services. It provides key strategies to safeguard devices and services from these companies, ensuring a secure and integrated smart home experience.

Why is this important? Microsoft, OpenAI, and Meta are pivotal in the smart home and AI sectors, offering products and services that heavily interact with personal data and home security systems. Ensuring their security is critical in preventing data breaches, unauthorized access, and maintaining overall privacy and safety in smart homes.

How to Implement:

1. Microsoft Account Security: Strengthen your Microsoft account with two-factor authentication and regular password updates, especially if it's linked to smart home devices or services like Xbox, Cortana, or Windows IoT.

2. Safe Use of AI Technologies: When using OpenAI's technologies, like GPT-3 or DALL-E, in smart home contexts, be mindful of the data shared with these AI models and the potential privacy implications.

3. Meta Platform Security: For Meta’s VR products, like the Meta Quest, ensure that all privacy settings are optimally configured, and be cautious of the apps and permissions granted within the VR ecosystem.

4. Network Security: Secure your home network, as it's the backbone of smart home communication. Ensure your router firmware, provided by companies like Microsoft, is up-to-date and secured with a strong password.

5. Educate About Phishing and Scams: Be vigilant about phishing attempts or scams that could target user accounts associated with Microsoft, OpenAI, and Meta services.

6. Regular Software Updates: Consistently update all software related to Microsoft, OpenAI, and Meta products to benefit from the latest security enhancements.

7. Device-Level Security: For devices running on Microsoft’s Windows, regularly update security features and use Windows Defender or other trusted security software.

8. Data Privacy Settings: Regularly review and adjust the privacy settings in all Microsoft, OpenAI, and Meta applications and services to limit data sharing and maintain privacy.

9. Monitor AI Interactions: Be cautious of the data shared with AI-driven devices or services, understanding the potential for data to be used in learning models or stored in the cloud.

10. Physical Security Measures: Implement physical security measures like secure login procedures and device location services for Microsoft and Meta hardware to prevent unauthorized access in case of theft or loss.

BBB Advises to Look Out for Toy Scams

Source: The Stanly News & Press

Summary:
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) warns of toy scams during the holiday season. Popular toys often sell out quickly and become expensive and hard to find. Scammers exploit this demand by creating fake or non-existent versions of these toys. They lure customers through professional-looking websites and social media ads, offering these toys at discounted prices or flash sales. However, buyers often end up with cheap counterfeits or receive nothing at all. The scam websites frequently disappear, making it difficult for customers to get refunds or any response from the company.

Key Takeaways:

• Beware of Toy Scams During Holidays: Scammers target popular "must-have" toys, creating fake versions or not delivering products.

• Professional-Looking Websites and Ads: These scams use professional imagery and offer products at attractive prices to lure customers.

• Common Outcomes: Buyers either receive cheap counterfeits or nothing, with scam websites often vanishing.

• Tips to Avoid Scams: Purchase toys from reputable stores, be cautious of low prices, and research unfamiliar companies before providing personal information.

A Big Thank You to Our Hard Targets

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