A new research initiative to develop Artificial Intelligence further

Artificial intelligence according to industry experts has already taken root in our daily life activities like texting, driving etc., even though it's significance is not that huge, but can be felt.

Futuristic machines are going to be lot more intelligent than the present ones is what the industry believes.

Industry heavy weights are now collaborating to launch a new non-profit research only initiative to  chart out the strategy for future AI systems. A strategy to determine and to make sure the AI  machines are supportive of humanity when functioning independently.

To quote from the blog

AI systems today have impressive but narrow capabilities. It seems that we'll keep whittling away at their constraints, and in the extreme case they will reach human performance on virtually every intellectual task. It's hard to fathom how much human-level AI could benefit society, and it's equally hard to imagine how much it could damage society if built or used incorrectly.

 Elon Musk and Silicon Valley masterminds join forces to keep forces from killing us all - PC World

 Valleyz

Mozilla launches Focus for iOS - Overview

Mozilla has launched a new ad-blocker app Focus for iOS, which uniquely works with Safari and in future if Apple opens up it's iOS further, will combine with Firefox to give a unique user experience.

Apple which steadfastly has opposed tracking while advocating open web makes this bold move and the app can be downloaded here.

 https://itunes.apple.com/app/id1055677337 Focus from Mozilla

Focus works with taking advantage of iOS9's content blocking API.

Gives in-depth control to systematically block ads or analytics or Tracking from Social Media networks like Facebook on any given page of the web.

 Mozilla launches Focus, a new ad-blocker for iOS - The Verge

 Valleyz

New Dorkbot threat: Microsoft together with law enforcement successfully disrupt Dorkbot network

Microsoft has been roped in by FBI together with several law enforcement agencies as it had launched a program to thwart the threat from a botnet known as Dorkbot and effectively disrupted it.

 The Dorkbot reportedly uses a ring of more than 100,000 computers.And usually attacks another 100,000 computers on an average every month there by affecting millions of computers in over 190 countries.

It basically installs itself on to the computer of a user without any intimation and executes commands remotely like stealing information from the attacked computer like logins and passwords. In fact it was widely reported that sites like g-mail, Netflix and PayPal were hacked by  hackers to steal information.

Once you have this Dorkbot installed on to your computer it will probably have installed other malware too like Scareware, Adware, RansomWare and so on.

The enforcement team advises users to run anti- malware software regularly to detect the threat and do not click unto emails from unknown receivers and download your software from known developers. And keep your system updated with latest updates of anti-malware software.

For Further reading :

What is Malware? How to protect your Mobile/PC from it?

 Valleyz

Overview and insight into the latest Technology news and Developments

 Here are 2015's best Android Apps picked up by Google.

Google's Picks for 2015's best Android Apps - Fox News


Rob Enderle gives deep insight in to the future of mobile and PC market on how they are going to shape ahead in the future. Both Google and Apple are looking ahead in the future for a versatile device that meets the industry demands and that which is mobile and pocket sized and is scaleable to a larger screen, that's where Android falls short, which was ideally conceived as a mobile operating system for small devices.
Also iOS conflict issues with MacOS and other detailed analysis of iOS and Android weaknesses.

 Why iOS and Android will soon become obsolete? -Rob Enderle for cio


Privacy expert Lorrie Cranor is going to replace Ashkan Soltani in January. Ms Lorrie Cranor holds a Doctorate in Engineering and Policy, Master's Degree in Computer Science and Technology and Human Affairs and a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering and Policy. With her election analysts say she may keep her focus on Consumer Privacy and Data security.

Ms Cranor's latest areas of interest include Usable Privacy Policy Project, usable and secure passwords, privacy decision making, user controllable-security and privacy and usable cyber Trust indicators.

FTC's next Chief Technologist is on a quest for better passwords - PCWorld

 Valleyz

Yahoo's new IM client, Ford's SYNC and Facebook's live video steam launch: Overview and news

Yahoo launches it's new IM for Mobile and Internet Telephony amid speculations of a possible sale of it's entire internet business, industry analysts say.

As yahoo tries to relaunch itself in to mainstream of chat clients, it says it will support the old messenger for a only few more months more.

 Yahoo launches new Messenger app in face of possible big changes - ComputerWorld

Salient features of Yahoo's new IM client for PC and Mobile - Yahoo

Ford has announced that it has launched it's new software upgrade of SYNC infotainment system.  Now it has Wireless access to Apple's Siri, through voice recognition which can be activated through a long press of the button on the steering wheel. Earlier the users of iPhone had to connect to the infotainment system using a USB cable.

Ford marries it SYNC system to Apple's Siri using Bluetooth - ComputerWorld

Facebook today announced live streaming of it's video service across entire network for anyone with an iOS device and an apple app, after running a few months trial by enabling celebrities and journalists first to use the service.

To use the service you have to tap on the update status button and then choose the live video icon.

Features of this service include,  lets you choose intended audience, who you want to broadcast the stream to, receives live messages during the stream, displays number of users logging in to the stream, and then you can save it for later or delete it option.

Valleyz

Adobe renames Flash, Samsung's VR, iphone7 headphones : Tech Overview and News

 Adobe is changing the name of it's Flash professional to Animate CC, keeping in mind the interests of web developers using the tool to develop with open platforms like HTML5, tipped to be the web platform across all devices.  
  
Adobe isn't killing flash, just changing the name to - MacWorld

Adobe's new tools supports open web standards like CSS and Java Script also.

 Adobe's new tool supports open web standards like CSS, HTML5 and Java Script

Samsung Launches its new Web Browser for Gear VR available at Oculus store, supports voice commands, on screen keyboard, 360 degree video streaming and HTML5 for better performance. In the gaze mode a typical user won't even have to touch the screen. Samsung says it is an important step in consumerization of VR(Virtual Reality).

Samsung Launches new web browser for Gear VR

Apple iPhone7 is tipped to use new smart headphones which will Synchronize with Apps and automatically adjust volume. Also Apple is rumored to get rid of headphone jack to lightning ports, which industry experts are divided on whether or not Apple is going to get on with that idea.

iPhone7:What will the Smarphones new headphone's do? - The Week


For Further Reading:

Youtube Red topping charts, Swatch's new Swipe Watch due in 2016 and Vtech hack details - Tech Overview 




 Valleyz

Youtube Red topping charts, Swatch's new Swipe Watch due in 2016 and Vtech hack details - Tech Overview

Youtube Red, You tube's new ambitious strategy to rope in new customers for ad-free service since it's launch in October 2015, is reportedly gaining traction as the featured app showed up among the Top Grossing charts.

 Youtube is now offering the same percentage of ad-revenue share of 55% with the new service without any other options for the creators, but only sign it or leave offer. That has led to ESPN's departure from the service, where Youtube has reportedly pulled down the prime broadcasters major chunk of video's off the network. Detailed story and more at TechCrunch

Youtube Enter's The App Stores Top Grossing Charts, Thanks to Youtube Red - TechCrunch

Switzerland based watch maker is introducing Swatch Swipe watch, which will let you pay through a swipe with your wrist using a NFC(chip). For more interesting features of the watch please go to 
Cnet website below.

Swatch will let you pay with your wrist - Cnet

V Tech hack proves costly, as the company details out the damage caused by the hack. Read further about the story at Mashable.

The story was  first reported by Lorenzo Franceschi Bisceshi - Bichhierai of Motherboard . Detailed analysis of the hack done by  Microsoft Developer Troy Hunt .

For Further Reading: 

Adobe renames Flash, Samsung's VR, iPhone7 headphones : Tech Overview and News

Valleyz

What is Spyware? How to protect your Mobile/PC from it?

A Software program designed in such a way to extricate information from a device Mobile/PC or communication/electronic device including identity details, financial transactions, property certificates, bank information, credit card information, other personal communications etc.,

 Intrusion into a system through a software program is one of the ways to do it. Often spyware is loaded on to a computer in the form of a legitimate PC game or a Browser Tool bar etc etc.,. Then it logs your activity, the sites you visit, the communications you make and transfers data remotely without the user even knowing about it on a regular basis, unless it scanned and removed from the system regularly.

Often the cookies that you receive from the sites you visit they record and trace your browsing info, but when you store those cookies continuously, they will continue to know about even after several months that you have visited their site. The companies use such information to target customers when they are browsing the Internet. And ads that Pop up in your browsers reflect that reality. Those are Adware.

Always have an Anti-Virus and Spyware protection on hand. Run the spyware scan and remove any unwanted program on your computer. Buy your Spyware Protection and Anti-Virus from a reputed brand.

There is no fool proof security, some or other way a User clicks on unwanted Pop-up. Sometimes visit a website while browsing and malware catches it. It's always useful to close Pop-Ups by clicking the X sign instead of cancel.

Don't click on suspicious links on Twitter, Facebook, MySpace etc.,

Three basic steps for Android Users :
1. Do not leave 'unknown sources enabled'
2.Avoid third party apps i.e., use only apps from Google Play store.
3. Read App Permissions carefully.

For Apple Users :
 It is a Unix based operating system it is less susceptible to attacks.

1. Apple has built in Anti-Malware X protect officially known as File Quarantine, snow leopard, Apple OS X
2.  Do Not Install Norton Anti-Virus on a Mac machine. Not compatible and it will seriously damage your device
3. Number of fake security products don't install them.
4. Block Pop-ups
5. Avoid suspected websites
6. Avoid Peer to Peer communications.
7. Consider using Mac OS X built in firewalls.
8. Use an Anti Virus Program like ClamXav.

Further reading :

What is malware? How to protect your PC/Mobile from it? 

What is Computer Virus? How to protect your Mobile/PC from it? 
 
  Valleyz

What is Malware? How to protect your Mobile/PC from it?

Malware is an abbreviated term for various types of malicious piece of software like Viruses, worms, Trojans, RansomWare, SpyWare, Adware, ScareWare etc., causing your mobile/PC to malfunction.

If your computer/Mobile holds crucial data and a virus attacks it, then it could cause temporary or permanent damage to your hard disk and operating system unless you take remedial measures.

Worms are standalone malicious code and does not attach itself to other files but perform same disruptions as a Virus does.

Trojans are hidden pieces of software that were shipped along with your hardware device from the assembly line itself. or Installed on to your PC through online software purchases or through other peripherals connecting your PC.

Install a reputed Anti-Malware software from vendors such as Symantec, Google Play Store, Samsung or Apple, Avast, Kaspersky for your PC/Mobile. or Download online from Original vendor and not any other third party source.

Do not click on unwanted ads of email links or suspicious looking Pop-Ups on your computer or Mobile.

Always make a habit to click the X on the top right corner of a Pop-up instead of the 'cancel' button.

If you are using a cable internet always log out off your account. Install reputed company firewalls to protect your computer from unwanted traffic.

Scan any attachable peripheral before downloading any files from it on to your PC/Mobile phone. Do not fill in financial details in online forms from suspicious links.

Keep your confidential information like Credit/Debit cards safe. Don't store it on your computer. Don't give out your info even somebody calling on the phone from the bank, because banks never ask such info on the phone.

Don't click on to unknown websites/Ads or email links etc.,

Don't get drawn away by lottery win e-mails or 'collect a gift that you have won' asking you to pay for processing fees or inviting you to a seminar abroad and asking for fees.


Don't click on suspicious links on Twitter, Facebook, MySpace etc.,

Three basic steps for Android Users :
1. Do not leave 'unknown sources enabled'
2.Avoid third party apps i.e., use only apps from Google Play store.
3. Read App Permissions carefully.

For Apple Users :
 It is a Unix based operating system it is less susceptible to attacks.

1. Apple has built in Anti-Malware X protect officially known as File Quarantine, snow leopard, Apple OS X
2.  Do Not Install Norton Anti-Virus on a Mac machine. Not compatible and it will seriously damage your device
3. Number of fake security products don't install them.
4. Block Pop-ups
5. Avoid suspected websites
6. Avoid Peer to Peer communications.
7. Consider using Mac OS X built in firewalls.
8. Use an Anti Virus Program like ClamXav.

What is Spyware? How to Protect your Mobile/PC from it?

What is Computer Virus? How to Protecct your Mobile/PC from it?

 Valleyz

Browser Security Essentials for User Privacy part 2

Before moving ahead we should understand what a term cookie is ?

 It is a small piece of Text string  placed in the user's memory ( System ), by  a host that is being visited. Why it is placed ? And How it is used ? are the two questions that a  user should understand and use it according to personal preferences, like the trust you place with a website being visited with respect to your online privacy.

 A cookie is used for many purposes including authentication, session tracking or  remembering the user preferences such as shopping carts and other data.

Authentication involves a host to know a particular user’s information and simultaneously it can allow it to log in at the terminal.  Here, a browser needs to accept the cookie,  without doing so, you may not be able to access the service.

Session tracking as the name itself suggests, is used to track the amount of time spent by a user at a website and other related info.

Also we understand, by remembering the preferences of a user such as shopping carts and other data, lets a host or other third party hosts know the details of user’s spending and this data further used in business targeting.

As you know now that a cookie is very helpful when it is used in a proper manner, but sometimes there are many bad sites which attack computers online, it is well advised to be cautious and you can enable switch it on and off  according to your preferences and trust which you place with the website. Browser security will be further discussed in the next post.

Browser Security Essentials for User Privacy Part 1

                                           
                                                       Source freepixels.com
One of the aspects of computer security mostly neglected or ignored is the browser security. 

Most users tend to neglect or ignore this important feature of securing their system from malware being run on their system when they inadvertently visit a bad site and click scrupulous  links thinking them to be safe. And let the malicious software’s intrude your system, the actions a wary user can avoid.

 This is a news story I followed this morning and this should be an eye opener,  how an unsuspecting consumer is led to click on malicious links and rogue anti-virus software’s getting installed onto your system without you knowing the veracity of the rogue software. 

The big part of the problem is removal, it is hard to get them removed from your system once you have installed them. So protection is better than cure here too. 

Check the authenticity of the security software you are downloading from the web.

One thing you will notice when visiting a website, you come across many other third party sites. Some times these third party sites are vulnerable and can pose a security risk to your system.

One thing a user should keep in mind when visiting a website, that the browser and the network are giving out information to the host. Like the IP address, the type of browser you are using, and other details, as most of us know this fact. So is akin walking onto an open street.

Besides this, our system also shares a level of security when visiting a host. That you allow a host to place a cookie on to your system and run scripts. You can simultaneously block these options. Why ? We will look into the reasons ahead in the next post Browser Security 2.

For Further Reading :

Browser Security Esssentials Part 2 

Broswer Security Essentials Part 3

Browser Security Essentials Part 4 
 

Identifying ID Theft And Fraud

                                  

                   
                           
                   If the wife of FBI boss Robert Mueller has warned him not to use internet banking because of the threat of online fraud, then what hope is there for the average Joe? The results of research suggests that more of us are no longer entrusting our finances to virtual accounts.

Read the full article at sciencedaily.com

Introduction Posts :

1. Are you secure online ? gives a good introduction overview on the Internet Security threats we face today. I recommend to give it a read along with the post Mobile Security in Focus

People Are Still The Weakest Link In Computer And Internet Security, Study Finds

                                        
                                      

Source: freedigitalphotos

  Two decades ago, studies showed that computer users were violating best practices for setting up hack-proof passwords, and not much has changed since then. What's clear, say researchers , is that until human factors/ergonomics methods are applied to the problem, it isn't likely to go away. --- Science daíly

This article at Science daíly highlights the issue of security being taken lightly by the users, and further discusses in detail how the user ergonomics and other human factors can lead to change in the user behaviour concerning security.

Introduction Posts : 

1. Are you secure online ? gives a good introduction overview on the Internet Security threats we face today. I recommend to give it a read along with the post Mobile Security in Focus

Mobile Security in Focus

                                                               

                                                            Source : FreeFoto

The growth in the multimedia applications along with new advanced technology smart phones, the security issues concerning this sector is just beginning to unfold. Virus, Trojans etc., affect the Mobiles the same way they affect a computer, as now 3G/4G mobiles look and behave more similar to a computer. Additional to this, user privacy and data have more increasingly come under threat.

Here is a link to Symbian OS press release in July stating how a Trojan work horse passed out its security tests.

You can have a look at Mcafee’s 2009 report  on wide ranging issues concerning security of Mobile platforms.

It is important to understand the aspect of security, when it comes to using the communication devices like PDA’s, Laptops, PC’s or mobiles, that when you are accessing the outside world, you need to have a good security mechanism to prevent threats to your mobile security, privacy and data from being hacked, stolen and manipulated.

And this aspect gives rise to another question, Is there any security in place when you are roaming with your communication device and are required to access a Wireless network located at a hot spot ? The answer is no.

This article reflects here. Discusses other issues too.

Here's another link to a document giving some simple but useful info regarding, How we can help protect our mobile phone in general, which almost all of us know, but its still better to take a look, in case if  missing out on anything. So, remember always to browse safely when you are mobile.

1. Are you secure online ? gives a good introduction overview on the Internet Security threats we face today. I recommend to give it a read