In MetaPhone: The Sensitivity of Telephone Metadata a pair of Stanford researchers recruited test-subjects who were willing to install spyware on their phones that logged the same "metadata" that the NSA harvests — and that the NSA and President Obama claims is not sensitive or privacy-invading. The researchers applied basic analytics to the data and uncovered — surprise! — incredibly compromising information about the personal lives, health, and finances of their subjects, just by looking at metadata. What's more, harvesting the subjects' metadata also revealed sensitive information about the subjects' contacts' lives. (via Techdirt)
Your metadata reveals sensitive, private information
What to know about COVID tracing apps
I have a group chat with some high school friends, who were recently talking about the COVID Alert CT App, a new voluntary state-sponsored COVID contact tracing option. Here's how it works, according to the Hartford Courant: The app uses Bluetooth to detect when another person with the same app comes within 6 feet. Your… READ THE REST
Hacking into your robot vacuum to eavesdrop on your home
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Portland, Maine voters nix facial surveillance
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Save 75% on this Google Assistant-enabled smartwatch ahead of Black Friday
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Step up your video-call game with these five HD webcams on sale for up to 90% off
With so many of us sticking around the house and working from home, webcams have taken on an elevated importance. And, when we're all trying to look our best on Zoom video conferences and Skype sessions with family and friends, the capabilities of those tiny cams start to matter. While many computers have built-in webcams… READ THE REST
These DIY drones combine STEM training with serious fun at Black Friday prices
For the past few years, we've all seen it. Drones are a hot item. The allure of launching one of these crafts into the air and running it through its aerial paces is visceral. And, they're a whole lot of fun. But figuring out what type of drone is right for each type of potential… READ THE REST