Rebecca from EFF writes, "How would you feel about having your computer taken over by online test-taking software – complete with proctors peering through your laptop camera? Reporters at the Spartan Daily (the student paper for San Jose State University) have an interesting story about new software in use there, and the legitimate concerns that some students have. The data-broker connection is especially chilling to those worried about their personal information." The company's response? "We're a customer service business, so it's really not advantageous for us to violate that trust." Oh, well, so long as that's sorted out then.
Online test-proctoring: educational spyware that lets third parties secretly watch and listen to you through your computer
Canadian fast food chain Tim Hortons had app users under constant surveillance
The app put out by Tim Hortons turned out to be constantly recording movements, illegally collecting "vast amounts of location data" without users' knowledge or consent. "The app also used location data to infer where users lived, where they worked, and whether they were traveling," the Office of the Privacy Commissioner said. "It generated an… READ THE REST
ShotSpotter "wastes millions of taxpayer dollars" and doesn't even work, say critics
ShotSpotter is a service that installs microphones around town and "spots" gunshots, but is frequently criticized for its reliability and price. One study found it offers "no reductions in serious violent crimes, yet … increases demands on police resources". The problems with it are both systematic (the mics confirm the biases that went into the… READ THE REST
Gentleman robs company that specializes in security cameras
A gentleman in South Nashville cut a fence and broke into the headquarters of Pro Systems, a company that specializes in security cameras. The thief absconded with $20,000 worth of goods. Unsurprisingly, police quickly apprehended the man who was easily identified on surveillance footage. According to WKRN, "Pro Systems was able to recover most of… READ THE REST
Get a Microsoft Office for Windows for just $50 during our Deal Days sale
Whether you're working remotely or in the office, your resources can make a world of difference. No, we're not talking about quality coffee, a steady supply of snacks, or a decent chair (although those could certainly make long work days pass by much quicker). We're talking about the actual apps you use to get the job… READ THE REST
Save $20 with this Deal Days discount on an AI-powered selfie drone
We understand that life has gotten a little stale now that the excitement for summer has worn off. Now we're just in hot, hot heat, and everything is less fun and a lot sticker. So if you're looking for laughs that won't cause heat stroke, bring the joy inside or out with this awesome Air NEO Selfie Camera Drone,… READ THE REST
Get in on this environment-friendly alternative to toilet paper
These days, it could seem like you've been spending all your hard-earned cash on essentials like gas, food, and even toilet paper. And while you need to buy this stuff, current high prices mean having to cut back on other fun stuff, which is hardly something you want to do over the summer. While you… READ THE REST
