Reddit CEO will publicly address the community amid mass outrage

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Reddit CEO will publicly address the community amid mass outrage
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Reddit CEO Steve Huffman is hosting an AMA (ask me anything) session later today, at around 10:30 AM PT / 1:30 PM ET / 5:30 PM GMT. He will take questions about “the latest API updates, including accessibility, mod bots, and third-party mod tools”. This comes amid a massive public outrage over the company’s new API policy that it announced in April.

Reddit is under fire for its new API policy

Tensions are running high at Reddit lately. The company’s decision to start charging for its APIs understandably hasn’t gone down well with indie developers. While the plan is to monetize the data the platform has accumulated in the 18 years of its existence, the money it’s charging developers is reportedly way too high. So much so that even the biggest third-party Reddit apps are unable to bear the cost. Many of them are shutting down at the end of this month, including Apollo, ReddPlanet, Sync, and Reddit is Fun.

On the other hand, the Reddit community has announced a mass protest against this controversial decision. More than 3,000 subreddits have confirmed that they will go dark for at least 48 hours beginning this Monday, June 12th. These include some big subreddits such as r/music, r/pics, r/gaming, r/todayilearned, and r/aww, all of which have more than 30 million subscribers. As you can see in this list (and this), a lot of big subreddits are going dark next week in protest against the company (via).

Amid all this, Reddit has mostly remained mum. All it has said is that accessibility-focused apps will continue to get free access to its APIs. Unsurprisingly, developers have accused the company of showing no support or cooperation towards them. “Reddit has made it clear that I’m not welcome here,” said the ReddPlanet developer. “Reddit’s behavior has been so appalling that for any developer I’ve talked to, it’s completely erased the indication that they even want us around,” the Apollo developer added.

Reddit CEO will discuss these API updates in an AMA session later today

After weeks of mass outrage on the platform, Reddit CEO Steve Huffman is finally addressing the community publicly later today. Considering the current environment, this AMA session may not be a fun conversation between a company’s CEO and its users. Reddit avoided mentioning “third-party apps” among the topics Huffman will take questions on during the AMA session. But he may have to field plenty of questions about these apps. It remains to be seen whether Reddit announces any changes to keep third-party apps alive.


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The CFPB warns against the use AI chatbots in banks

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The CFPB warns against the use AI chatbots in banks
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It’s no secret that ever since the launch of generative AI chatbots like ChatGPT and the subsequent start of the AI revolution, every industry, including banks, has been making efforts to integrate artificial intelligence and save operational costs. However, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has recently issued a warning regarding the use of AI chatbots by banks after numerous customer reports highlighted the lack of timely and straightforward responses.

While data from the banking industry indicates high customer satisfaction, the CFPB’s concerns revolve around the fact that these AI chatbots may deliver incorrect financial information or compromise customer privacy and data, thus eroding trust in the financial institution and its services.

“To reduce costs, many financial institutions are integrating artificial intelligence technologies to steer people toward chatbots. A poorly deployed chatbot can lead to customer frustration, reduced trust, and even violations of the law,” said CFPB Director Rohit Chopra.

Bank’s response

In response to the report, Brooke Ybarra, Senior Vice President of the American Bankers Association, expressed her support for responsible innovation that benefits consumers and emphasized that these chatbots are additional tools aimed at expediting the customer experience and complementing traditional channels of interaction.

“There are many ways consumers can communicate with their bank, and recent surveys show the overwhelming majority of customers rate their bank’s customer service highly,” said Ybarra.

Calls for regulation

Although the CFPB’s concerns surrounding the spread of misinformation are legitimate, the popularity of AI chatbots is on the rise, with approximately one in three people in the US interacting with a chatbot in 2022, and this number will only increase as companies look to deploy AIs to save costs.

Therefore, the debate now revolves around companies like Google and Microsoft carefully designing and monitoring these tools to ensure there is no harm. Moreover, even the government is exploring ways to control and regulate AI development.


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June Google System updates bring Wallet UI for foldables

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June Google System updates bring Wallet UI for foldables
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The Google System updates for June 2023 are now rolling out. The first batch of updates brings an optimized UI for the Google Wallet app on foldables, expanded Find My Device network, and a few other improvements. All of these changes will roll out to users with Google Play services v23.22 released a couple of days back.

Google recently announced a major update for the Wallet app. It’s adding support for TSA-compliant digital IDs, custom digital passes, Messages integration, and more. Now, as part of the June Google System updates, the company is pushing an optimized UI for the app on foldable smartphones. “Gpay support for foldable devices,” Google says in its release notes. This should mean a Wallet UI designed specifically for big-screen devices. 9to5Google has noticed that foldable phones need to be closed for making payments or using passes.

This appears to be a perfectly timed rollout ahead of the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet’s release later this month. Google has updated several first-party apps with UI optimizations for bigger screens in recent months, including Google Recorder. The company is seemingly committed to giving a complete experience of its apps to the buyers of these new products from the get-go. Wallet users can also now disable those fun animations that show up on the screen after completing a payment or using a pass.

Elsewhere, Google is expanding its Find My Device network for Android products with the latest system updates. The network now uses a new privacy-centric framework and supports more devices, including accessories. These updates also bring new alerts and recommendations to secure your Google Account. Last but not least, the company has added a reminder dialog for pending system updates so you don’t miss out on the latest features.

Google System updates roll out in batches

Google System updates are different from the firmware updates you get on your Android phone. These updates bring changes and improvements to the core Android components, including the Android OS, Google Play Store, and Google Play services. Those changes often impact the company’s first-party apps such as Gmail, Contacts, Wallet, Maps, and more. One such update in May fundamentally changed how saved contacts sync across your Android devices.

The latest system updates are usually installed automatically, though you can check for updates manually from the About phone section in your phone’s Settings app. You can also check for the updates for Google Play services here. Note that these updates roll out in batches throughout the month. This is the first batch of June system updates, rolling out with Google Play services v23.22. We will let you know when Google releases the second batch of the latest system updates.


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CNN head, Chris Licht fired after Poor Ratings

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CNN head, Chris Licht fired after Poor Ratings
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Since Warner Bros and Discovery merged, CNN has had a rocky time. From the new combined company killing CNN+ before it even launched fully, and now its head is fired after CNN’s poor ratings. Showing that WBD’s CEO David Zaslav is not messing around.

Today, it was reported that CNN’s head, Chris Licht is out. This is due to the poor ratings and unhappy staff. CNN has been struggling as of late with ratings, and has fallen to third plance among the big three news channels.

In March, CNN’s primetime audience decreased by about 61%, with an average of only 473,000 viewers. Now to put things into perspective, all cable news channels have seen declines since March. However, Fox News only dropped 27% and MSNBC lost just 12% of its viewers. So CNN lost a significant larger amount of viewers since then.

Fox News is currently averaging 2.09 million and MSNBC is averaging 1.14 million, in primetime.

CNN’s new head is Amy Entelis

Amy Entelis will be taking Licht’s job for now. She is an executive CP of talent at CNN. Licht was only in the job for a little over a year, he was installed after Warner Bros and Discovery merged. But it looks like Zaslov wasn’t happy with his performance. To his credit, Licht does take responsibility for the poor ratings at CNN.

This all comes while CNN is getting ready to cut costs, which will help handle the drop in revenue. In fact, it was recently announced that CNN would be moving out of its headquarters in Atlanta, and into a cheaper location.

It comes at an interesting time, as the 2024 Presidential Campaign is start to heat up, which is a ratings boon for cable news networks like CNN. Though this campaign seems to be taking longer to get started versus, the previous two in 2016 and 2020. Of course, it’s still over a year before we even vote for president, so its still quite early.


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The “Following” feature on Google News will soon show you content of interest to you

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The “Following” feature on Google News will soon show you content of interest to you
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Do you use the Google News app on Android and iOS as one of your main sources for news daily? Yesterday we showed you two new Android widgets coming for the app and today we want to pass along some information about new features for the app per 9to5Google. One change is coming to the “Following” tab found at the bottom of the screen. Right now, when you tap that tab, you see suggestions of topics and sources to follow but no content is presented.
When the app is updated, the “Following” tab will present as many as three stories each with the name of the publication it was taken from and an image from the article. You will be able to add topics of interest, specific sources, and certain locations to help hone in on news stories that would be of interest to you. Google says that “articles shown on this page are determined through ranking algorithms that are similar to those used to surface content across Google News.
Google says that the revised “Following” tab for Google News is rolling out soon worldwide to Android users and will be coming to iOS later this year. And Google is also moving its News Showcase licensing program to the U.S. The company has committed to pay $1 billion to news organizations for content from over 700 news organizations. This includes limited free user access to content that is paywalled.
Current Following tab on left, the new Following on the right - The "Following" feature on Google News will soon show you content of interest to you

Current Following tab on left, the new Following on the right

The company says, “News Showcase is made up of panels that give news organizations the ability to package the most important stories of the day for readers, providing deeper storytelling and more context through features like timelines, bullets, related stories and a list of important articles. This content currently appears in Google News and Discover, bringing trusted news to readers all over the world.”

Lastly, the service known as Subscribe with Google is being rebranded as Reader Revenue Manage. With this feature, Google News users can subscribe to paid content using their Google Account and with auto sign-in, accessing this content is a snap.

If you don’t have the Google News app on your phone, tap on this link to install it on your Android phone and or click here to install Google News on your iOS device.

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VMware patches critical vulnerabilities in Aria Operations for Networks

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VMware patches critical vulnerabilities in Aria Operations for Networks
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VMware has released security updates to fix a trio of flaws in Aria Operations for Networks that could result in information disclosure and remote code execution

VMware has released security updates to fix three vulnerabilities in Aria Operations for Networks which could result in information disclosure and remote code execution.

The vulnerabilities were found in Aria Operations for Networks which was formerly known as vRealize Network Insight. Users of versions VMware Aria Operations for Networks 6.x are under advise to applying the patches listed in the VMware KB article about these vulnerabilities.

Before you download and apply the security patch for your Aria Operations for Network deployment, it is advised to perform clean up using steps mentioned in VMware KB 88977 to avoid issues with patch upgrade failing with “Insufficient disk space toast message.”

The Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) database lists publicly disclosed computer security flaws. The CVEs patched in these updates are:

CVE-2023-20887 (CVSS score: 9.8 out of 10): Aria Operations for Networks contains a command injection vulnerability. A malicious actor with network access to VMware Aria Operations for Networks may be able to perform a command injection attack resulting in remote code execution (RCE).

CVE-2023-20888 (CVSS score: 9.1 out of 10): Aria Operations for Networks contains an authenticated deserialization vulnerability. A malicious actor with network access to VMware Aria Operations for Networks and valid ‘member’ role credentials may be able to perform a deserialization attack resulting in remote code execution (RCE).

CVE-2023-20889 (CVSS score: 8.8 out of 10): Aria Operations for Networks contains an information disclosure vulnerability. A malicious actor with network access to VMware Aria Operations for Networks may be able to perform a command injection attack resulting in information disclosure.

Command injection is an attack method that aims to execute arbitrary commands on a system. Typically, the threat actor injects the commands by exploiting an application vulnerability, such as insufficient input validation.

Deserialization is the process of extracting data from files, networks or streams and rebuilding the data as objects. Deserialization of user input is considered a security misconfiguration, and can have serious consequences.

VMware Aria Operations for Networks helps IT teams to monitor, discover, and analyze networks and applications to build an optimized, highly available and secure network infrastructure across clouds.

Virtualization technology has taken the scalability of IT systems to the next level. Cybercriminals are very much aware of that and have a vested interest in hypervisor software and network mapping tools, because they make it easier to control a host of virtual machines. Which is much more effective than attacking individual systems.

So, vulnerabilities in such software are guaranteed to be researched by malicious actors.

We don’t just report on vulnerabilities—we identify them, and prioritize action.

Cybersecurity risks should never spread beyond a headline. Keep vulnerabilities in tow by using Malwarebytes Vulnerability and Patch Management.


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Ever wanted to ride a raptor in Fortnite? Well, now you can!

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Ever wanted to ride a raptor in Fortnite? Well, now you can!
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If you’re excited about what Fortnite has in store for its next season, the wait is over. Chapter 4 season 3 just released its latest cinematic trailer, and it shows that, among other things, you may be able to ride raptors. Fortnite Wilds is set to launch today and it ties into an upcoming movie.

It’s not hard to see which movie when you watch the end of the trailer. Optimus Prime makes an appearance. This new season revolves around the upcoming Transformers: Rise of The Beasts. So, if you’re excited about the movie, then you will enjoy this season.

Fortnite Wilds gets its official cinematic trailer

One thing you can say about Fortnite is that it is really good at hyping up its fans. The cinematic trailer begins with four characters standing on a cliff as they watch the entire middle section of the island collapse into a gigantic jungle. Soon after coming down the cliff, they see the Raptors for which they ride to the center. In the center, there’s a large temple where they meet Optimus Prime.

Optimus Prime’s model is no bigger than the other characters, which means that you’ll most likely be able to play as him. Not only that, but we were introduced to a new weapon as well. It appears to be a giant blaster with explosive capabilities.

Fortnite Wilds is set to launch today, so you should most likely see it when you log on. If not, then you will have to just wait until it reaches your region.

Excited about the Movie?

If you’re looking forward to watching Transformers: Rise of The Beasts, the movie is now out in theaters. It’s rated PG-13, and it’s just over 2 hours long. The movie stars notable actors such as Pete Davidson, Peter Cullen, and Ron Perlman. Why not watch the movie, and then relax with a little bit of Fortnite?


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Qbot malware adapts against Microsoft’s latest defence tactic

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Qbot malware adapts against Microsoft’s latest defence tactic
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Although over the past few years, Microsoft has done a commendable job in taking steps to combat malware and prevent its havoc, including the recent ban on macros from running in Office files downloaded from the internet, it looks like threat actors always find a way as the notorious Qbot malware has now evolved to remain effective against Microsoft’s latest tactic.

According to research conducted by Black Lotus Labs, the Qbot malware, which initially started as a banking trojan over a decade ago, has quickly adapted its distribution network, deployment methods, and command and control (C2) server in response to Microsoft’s changes. Additionally, threat actors have also introduced new techniques for initial access in phishing campaigns, such as using malicious OneNote files, Mark of the Web evasion, and HTML smuggling.

“Qakbot has shown resilience by employing a resourceful approach in building and developing its architecture..it demonstrates technical expertise by employing various initial access methods and maintaining a robust yet evasive residential C2 architecture,” reads the report.

Greater adaptability

Besides the new deployment methods, the Qbot operators have modified how they manage their C2 servers, as instead of relying on hosted virtual private servers (VPS), threat actors now hide the C2 servers within compromised web servers and hosts in residential IP spaces. Although this approach results in a shorter lifespan for servers, hackers can quickly obtain new ones. Approximately 90 new C2 servers are brought up every week during a spam cycle.

Furthermore, converting bots into C2 servers is crucial to Qbot’s operations. This is because over 25% of these servers are active for a day, and half do not survive beyond a week. Therefore, converted bots play a vital role in replenishing the C2 server supply.

To make matters worse, the report states that the malware will persist as a significant threat for the foreseeable future. “There are currently no signs of Qakbot slowing down.”


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Update your Cisco System Secure Client now to fix this AnyConnect bug

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Update your Cisco System Secure Client now to fix this AnyConnect bug
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We take a look at a recent update for Cisco Secure System Client and why you should apply the update as soon as possible.

Cisco Secure Client is the fresh recipient of a fix to address a high-severity vulnerability related to improper permissions. The flaw allows attackers to potentially escalate privileges to the SYSTEM account.

From the vulnerability advisory:

A vulnerability in the client update feature of Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client Software for Windows and Cisco Secure Client Software for Windows could allow a low-privileged, authenticated, local attacker to elevate privileges to those of SYSTEM.

This vulnerability exists because improper permissions are assigned to a temporary directory that is created during the upgrade process. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by abusing a specific function of the Windows installer process. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to execute code with SYSTEM privileges.

As Bleeping Computer notes, Secure Client allows for remote work thanks to a secure Virtual Private Network and also gives admins telemetry and endpoint management functionality. The attacks themselves do not need user interaction to get the exploitation ball rolling. Bleeping Computer also mentions that there is no current evidence to suggest active exploitation in the wild. With this in mind, there’s never been a better time to start patching. 

As with so many other vulnerabilities out there, there is no workaround for this issue. What this means is that if you’re delayed applying an update for whatever reason, there’s no way to put a band-aid over the wound until you’re ready to hit the update button. Your setup will simply remain at risk until you do it.

The vulnerable products are as follows:

Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client Software for Windows and Cisco Secure Client Software for Windows.

Note: For releases earlier than Release 5.0, Cisco Secure Client for Windows is known as Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client for Windows.

There’s a number of products not at risk from this issue, which are listed below. You’ll note that none of them are Windows.

  • Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client for Linux
  • Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client for MacOS
  • Cisco Secure Client-AnyConnect for Android
  • Cisco Secure Client AnyConnect VPN for iOS
  • Cisco Secure Client for Linux
  • Cisco Secure Client for MacOS

This issue has been resolved with the release of Cisco Secure Client for Windows 5.0MR2, and AnyCOnnect Secure Mobility Client for Windows 4.10MR7. If you haven’t already done so, it’s time to check out the Cisco downloads page and make your network a little bit safer.

Malwarebytes EDR and MDR removes all remnants of ransomware and prevents you from getting reinfected. Want to learn more about how we can help protect your business? Get a free trial below.

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Google News got 2 new widgets that use Material You

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Google News got 2 new widgets that use Material You
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Google is busy applying the Material You paint job to every corner of Android. It started this process back in 2021, and most of the software has the updated aesthetic. However, the company’s job is not done. The Google News app just got two new widgets, and these all have the Material You design, according to Android Police.

If you’re looking for a reliable source to aggregate the latest news headlines, then you might want to use Google News. As you can tell, it’s a news platform that will curate news stories based on the hottest headlines.

Also, since it’s tied to your Google account, you’ll get personalized seeds of headlines based on your search history and activity. Your Android phone may come with it already installed. If not, you can get it from the Play Store.

Google News is getting too new Material You widgets.

Before, there was only one Google News widget. Now, the company boosted it to two. The first widget is a smaller 2×2 widget, and it shows you one headline at a time. It will show you the latest top news headline. You will get the title of the article, the publication at the bottom, and the age. This will provide you with a quick at a glance look at what’s happening.

The next widget is a bit larger. This one is 4×3, and the size can be adjusted. The larger widget will show you two headlines, and they’ll all have the same information.

Being a Material You widget, all the corners are very rounded. Also, they have the classic Material You two-toned colors. The colors will comply with your system’s color palette. The background of the second widget will be a lighter shade while the actual articles will be a darker shade. That may change if you switch to dark mode.

Right now, this is not available to the general public. The widgets are in version 5.82, and the latest version on the Play Store is version 5.81. However, if you absolutely need to have these new widgets today, you can download the APK file here.


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