Internet-wide efforts to fight email spam are working
According to Google's security blog, email authentication standards have been in development for quite some time, and are finally becoming widespread as an attempt to stop phishing and email impersonations.
Email domains are starting to accept these "email authentication standards" in order to keep spam and phishing emails, which seemingly come from legitimate sources, from reaching users' inboxes. It's not just the big domains, either; Gmail is encouraging private domains to adopt these standards as well in order to keep users' inboxes safe from spam and phishing.
Gmail users are probably well aware of how well spam filters work within their inboxes; I personally have very rarely, if at all, received spam emails in my inbox; emails are filtered to my junk mail very well. Now that other domains are working to stop these emails, as well, inboxes will be staying much more clean.
Spammers are going to have to work a lot harder to get to email inboxes, now...
Sunday, December 8, 2013
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
Google to help avoid social media burnout
Google patents robot help for social media burnout
Are you spending too much time updating your social media pages? Google's new robot may be able to help you manage your social media time more effectively.
According to BBC News, Google has plans to create a program that will "learn how you react" on social media and put out automated messages, statuses, comments, and more.
The software would react the way that it expects the user to react. Essentially, it would take the human interaction out of social networking.
One one hand, I could see how this program could be beneficial to people. But, as I feel about most new technologies, I feel that this just adds to our constant connectedness. If you don't have time to be on social media, why not just stay off of social media? Having a robot create your messages is really just unnecessary.
In the article, Professor Shaun Lawson is quoted as asking, "Are we really so concerned with posting messages to every friend or follower that we feel compelled to have to automate that process?"
Social media is a way to stay social. It's a way to stay in contact with people. If we use this software, aren't we missing the point of social media -- to be social?
Are you spending too much time updating your social media pages? Google's new robot may be able to help you manage your social media time more effectively.
According to BBC News, Google has plans to create a program that will "learn how you react" on social media and put out automated messages, statuses, comments, and more.
The software would react the way that it expects the user to react. Essentially, it would take the human interaction out of social networking.
One one hand, I could see how this program could be beneficial to people. But, as I feel about most new technologies, I feel that this just adds to our constant connectedness. If you don't have time to be on social media, why not just stay off of social media? Having a robot create your messages is really just unnecessary.
In the article, Professor Shaun Lawson is quoted as asking, "Are we really so concerned with posting messages to every friend or follower that we feel compelled to have to automate that process?"
Social media is a way to stay social. It's a way to stay in contact with people. If we use this software, aren't we missing the point of social media -- to be social?
Friday, November 22, 2013
What are Bitcoins?
What Tech :: What Are Bitcoins?
I was recently told about Bitcoins, and admittedly, even after reading the above article, I'm still a bit confused by it all. While it's not something I'd personally get involved with, I do think it's an incredible technological idea.
"In simple terms Bitcoin is to paper money what email is to paper mail; basically Bitcoin is cash for the internet."
Okay, sounds simple enough.
"It’s a form of currency that exists only in digital form and the underlying software is drawn from the world of cryptography and IT security."
Uh... okay...
"Bitcoins are created by setting a computer to solve complex math problems. This is referred to as 'mining.' Every time a problem is solved a Bitcoin is released and it’s release is recorded to the Blockchain network. As more Bitcoin are created the problems automatically become more difficult to solve."
This is getting complicated.
But even though Bitcoins is a complicated concept, the implications are quite interesting. It's an expensive little hobby; as the article explains, the average household computer couldn't do the 'mining' without using a ridiculous amount of electricity. This calls for specialized equipment, which is where the expenses really start to add up.
What's really interesting about Bitcoins is that once they run out (there will be approximately 21 million), that's it. That's the end. They can't just decide to print more. Now, of course other organizations are coming up with similar but different Bitcoins, but they are still limited. As of right now, one Bitcoin is equal to about $770.00. And Bitcoins are starting to be accepted by online retailers.
Though Bitcoin is about 4 years old, the concept is just now getting a lot of recogition because the US Senate had a hearing about it. A pretty positive hearing. Going forward, I'm sure more people will get involed with Bitcoins. But for now, the above article is a great way to learn all you need to know.
I was recently told about Bitcoins, and admittedly, even after reading the above article, I'm still a bit confused by it all. While it's not something I'd personally get involved with, I do think it's an incredible technological idea.
"In simple terms Bitcoin is to paper money what email is to paper mail; basically Bitcoin is cash for the internet."
Okay, sounds simple enough.
"It’s a form of currency that exists only in digital form and the underlying software is drawn from the world of cryptography and IT security."
Uh... okay...
"Bitcoins are created by setting a computer to solve complex math problems. This is referred to as 'mining.' Every time a problem is solved a Bitcoin is released and it’s release is recorded to the Blockchain network. As more Bitcoin are created the problems automatically become more difficult to solve."
This is getting complicated.
But even though Bitcoins is a complicated concept, the implications are quite interesting. It's an expensive little hobby; as the article explains, the average household computer couldn't do the 'mining' without using a ridiculous amount of electricity. This calls for specialized equipment, which is where the expenses really start to add up.
What's really interesting about Bitcoins is that once they run out (there will be approximately 21 million), that's it. That's the end. They can't just decide to print more. Now, of course other organizations are coming up with similar but different Bitcoins, but they are still limited. As of right now, one Bitcoin is equal to about $770.00. And Bitcoins are starting to be accepted by online retailers.
Though Bitcoin is about 4 years old, the concept is just now getting a lot of recogition because the US Senate had a hearing about it. A pretty positive hearing. Going forward, I'm sure more people will get involed with Bitcoins. But for now, the above article is a great way to learn all you need to know.
Sunday, November 17, 2013
Google Glass Sunshade
Creepy Google Glass pics without anyone knowing? Yes, you can.
I feel like, every time I read about Google Glass, I'm reading an article that highlights the privacy issues that come with the technology.
One of the primary privacy concerns associated with Google Glass is the ability to take pictures of people without them realizing it. Apparently, if you see someone wearing Google Glass, you can tell if the Glass is "on" because of a light on the side of the product. If the light is on, the Glass is on. This is all well and good, but if someone wants to take creepy pictures or videos, they're going to find a way to cover up that light. I'm still pretty uncomfortable with the product, but whatever.
Now, however, another concern is coming up. Google Glass Sunshade is a product that makes it easier to see the Google Glass graphics when wearing the technology in sunlight. Sure, it makes the graphics easier to see for the user, but the Sunshade also apparently blocks the little indicator light that tells you when the Glass is in use.
Again, if people want to find a way to take pictures or videos without people knowing, they will.
The inventor of Google Glass Sunshade, Chris Barrett, mentioned in the article linked above that he "did not create the Sunshade to be sneaky. The 3D printed Sunshade does make Glass less noticeable. Less people ask me what I'm wearing when they can't see the prism light up."
Um. So less people know that you're wearing them? And that's not sneaky?
I don't know, I just don't really feel comfortable with the Google Glass technology; and I feel less comfortable with this Sunshade thing. If I were to ever use the technology, I'd make it a point to let people know that I'm using it. I wouldn't want to hide the indicator light. Maybe that's just me, but I'm thinking this Google Glass Sunshade will need to undergo some modifications before it meets privacy laws.
I feel like, every time I read about Google Glass, I'm reading an article that highlights the privacy issues that come with the technology.
One of the primary privacy concerns associated with Google Glass is the ability to take pictures of people without them realizing it. Apparently, if you see someone wearing Google Glass, you can tell if the Glass is "on" because of a light on the side of the product. If the light is on, the Glass is on. This is all well and good, but if someone wants to take creepy pictures or videos, they're going to find a way to cover up that light. I'm still pretty uncomfortable with the product, but whatever.
Now, however, another concern is coming up. Google Glass Sunshade is a product that makes it easier to see the Google Glass graphics when wearing the technology in sunlight. Sure, it makes the graphics easier to see for the user, but the Sunshade also apparently blocks the little indicator light that tells you when the Glass is in use.
Again, if people want to find a way to take pictures or videos without people knowing, they will.
The inventor of Google Glass Sunshade, Chris Barrett, mentioned in the article linked above that he "did not create the Sunshade to be sneaky. The 3D printed Sunshade does make Glass less noticeable. Less people ask me what I'm wearing when they can't see the prism light up."
Um. So less people know that you're wearing them? And that's not sneaky?
I don't know, I just don't really feel comfortable with the Google Glass technology; and I feel less comfortable with this Sunshade thing. If I were to ever use the technology, I'd make it a point to let people know that I'm using it. I wouldn't want to hide the indicator light. Maybe that's just me, but I'm thinking this Google Glass Sunshade will need to undergo some modifications before it meets privacy laws.
Friday, November 8, 2013
3D Printed Gun Actually Works
Uh-oh, this 3D-printed metal handgun actually works
3D printing is an incredible technology. While I've only so far seen it used to print parts for model airplanes, the capabilities of a 3D printer are actually incredible.
But there's something that's leaving me a bit uneasy: these 3D printers can print guns. And apparently, according to the C-Net article above, these guns can fire rounds. The first gun printed was made of plastic and did not work as well as anticipated. But the gun featured in the article above is metal. And it works.
When 3D guns were first being printed, most metal detectors did not pick them up because they were made of plastic. This new working 3D printed gun is metal, which makes it a bit easier to detect, but still problematic. Luckily, the technology is not currently widely available thanks to it's high price tag, but as 3D printing becomes more accessible, more problems will likely arise. The article also explains that these guns can be printed fairly anonymously. Does anyone else see the issue?
The main focus here is supposed to be to show that 3D printers can print metal products, not just plastic. The technology is really cool, I'll admit. I'm just nervous about its implications for the future. Especially since most of what's being reported about the technology is that guns are being printed. I'm interested in where 3D printing technology will go in the future; what other amazing things will we be able to print? Right now the technology is still fairly new, so we have a lot to learn about its capabilities. But I'm hoping that, as the technology becomes more widely available, it will be used for more good than bad.
3D printing is an incredible technology. While I've only so far seen it used to print parts for model airplanes, the capabilities of a 3D printer are actually incredible.
But there's something that's leaving me a bit uneasy: these 3D printers can print guns. And apparently, according to the C-Net article above, these guns can fire rounds. The first gun printed was made of plastic and did not work as well as anticipated. But the gun featured in the article above is metal. And it works.
When 3D guns were first being printed, most metal detectors did not pick them up because they were made of plastic. This new working 3D printed gun is metal, which makes it a bit easier to detect, but still problematic. Luckily, the technology is not currently widely available thanks to it's high price tag, but as 3D printing becomes more accessible, more problems will likely arise. The article also explains that these guns can be printed fairly anonymously. Does anyone else see the issue?
Sunday, November 3, 2013
Glassing and Driving
Woman cited for Glassing and driving 'pretty sure' she'll fight ticket
With new technology comes new responsibilities.
It's hard for laws to keep up with all of the new technology that's constantly emerging. With the creating of Google Glass, eyewear that projects different technologies right in front of the users' eyes, different legal issues emerged; for example, the glasses can take first person photos of whatever the user is seeing, prompting a look at privacy issues.
But now, a different legal issue has come up: the issue of "Glassing and driving." Cecilia Abadie of California was recently pulled over for speeding, but issued a second citation for wearing her Google Glass eyewear while driving. Because the glasses project information right in front of the users eyes, technically using Google Glass while driving counts as "distracted driving." Abadie insists that the eyewear was not active while she was driving, but the officer cited it as "distracted driving" anyway. There is really no way for an officer to know for sure whether or not Google Glass is active while the user is driving.
The law can't keep up with emerging technology. The above article speculates that Google Glass actually enhances driver safety because drivers aren't using their cell phones, but the way I see it, having images projected in front of your eyes qualifies as distracting.
There is talk about banning "Glassing and Driving," but so far nothing has really been done. It's all too new. As Google Glass becomes more widespread, other issues will surely emerge. But even as laws are put into place, another technology will come out that brings up similar issues. It's inevitable.
As the author of the above article suggests, "Perhaps we should just ban all new technology for five years, so that the lawyers can decide how to deal with it all."
With new technology comes new responsibilities.
It's hard for laws to keep up with all of the new technology that's constantly emerging. With the creating of Google Glass, eyewear that projects different technologies right in front of the users' eyes, different legal issues emerged; for example, the glasses can take first person photos of whatever the user is seeing, prompting a look at privacy issues.
But now, a different legal issue has come up: the issue of "Glassing and driving." Cecilia Abadie of California was recently pulled over for speeding, but issued a second citation for wearing her Google Glass eyewear while driving. Because the glasses project information right in front of the users eyes, technically using Google Glass while driving counts as "distracted driving." Abadie insists that the eyewear was not active while she was driving, but the officer cited it as "distracted driving" anyway. There is really no way for an officer to know for sure whether or not Google Glass is active while the user is driving.
The law can't keep up with emerging technology. The above article speculates that Google Glass actually enhances driver safety because drivers aren't using their cell phones, but the way I see it, having images projected in front of your eyes qualifies as distracting.
There is talk about banning "Glassing and Driving," but so far nothing has really been done. It's all too new. As Google Glass becomes more widespread, other issues will surely emerge. But even as laws are put into place, another technology will come out that brings up similar issues. It's inevitable.
As the author of the above article suggests, "Perhaps we should just ban all new technology for five years, so that the lawyers can decide how to deal with it all."
Thursday, October 24, 2013
Coming to a store near you: 'Do Not Track'
Real-world 'Do Not Track' coming to retail stores
When you're shopping online, often times you're being tracked so that ads relevant to the stores where you shop will pop up on other sites you use. Kind of creepy, right? Well, what if that's also happening to you when you shop in real life?
According to the above article, multiple retail locations have been testing new technology that uses your cell phone to track you as you shop. This technology can tell what aisle you're in, what you're looking at, and even how long you spent looking at certain products.
Senator Charles Schumer is incredibly unsettled by this technology. He is currently working to implement rules that state that stores utilizing this technology must display signs explaining the tracking and offering people the right to opt-out. As it stands now, though, majority of people are not informed of this technology -- and it is in use as we speak.
I do majority of my grocery shopping at Stop and Shop. The store implemented a cool technology that allows consumers to scan their grocery items as they shop, then scan a barcode at the register and have their entire grocery order come up. This eliminates long checkout lines and makes for a faster shopping experience overall. Another part of the technology, though, is it tracks you as you move across the store and sends coupons to the scanner when you're in front of certain products. This seems to be where this tracking technology involving cell phones is heading; but somehow it seems less invasive when the coupons are going to a product directly linked to the store.
Consumer privacy is being seriously violated with this technology. Hopefully the rules go into effect soon, because if not, I'm not going to feel comfortable Christmas shopping this year...
When you're shopping online, often times you're being tracked so that ads relevant to the stores where you shop will pop up on other sites you use. Kind of creepy, right? Well, what if that's also happening to you when you shop in real life?
According to the above article, multiple retail locations have been testing new technology that uses your cell phone to track you as you shop. This technology can tell what aisle you're in, what you're looking at, and even how long you spent looking at certain products.
Senator Charles Schumer is incredibly unsettled by this technology. He is currently working to implement rules that state that stores utilizing this technology must display signs explaining the tracking and offering people the right to opt-out. As it stands now, though, majority of people are not informed of this technology -- and it is in use as we speak.
I do majority of my grocery shopping at Stop and Shop. The store implemented a cool technology that allows consumers to scan their grocery items as they shop, then scan a barcode at the register and have their entire grocery order come up. This eliminates long checkout lines and makes for a faster shopping experience overall. Another part of the technology, though, is it tracks you as you move across the store and sends coupons to the scanner when you're in front of certain products. This seems to be where this tracking technology involving cell phones is heading; but somehow it seems less invasive when the coupons are going to a product directly linked to the store.
Consumer privacy is being seriously violated with this technology. Hopefully the rules go into effect soon, because if not, I'm not going to feel comfortable Christmas shopping this year...
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