OpenAI’s new AI agents will control your device, take more jobs

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OpenAI’s new AI agents will control your device, take more jobs
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OpenAI’s ChatGPT has captured global attention again. It ignited an AI race among tech giants striving to develop comparable AI models. However, besides fixing and fine-tuning ChatGPT, OpenAI is pushing the boundaries further exploring a new range of applications that can benefit from its AI development. If successful, OpenAI‘s under-development AI models will revolutionize various complex tasks that require human inputs, potentially taking more jobs as a part of the process.

An AI agent from OpenAI will be able to take control of your device

According to a recent report from The Information (paywalled), OpenAI is working on two distinct types of AI programs aimed at automating tasks traditionally performed by humans. The first type of AI model can automate intricate tasks by taking control of a user’s device. For example, this agent could seamlessly transfer data from documents to spreadsheets, fill out expense reports, or input data into accounting software, notes Android Authority.

These tasks typically involve human intervention on their devices. Now your device being able to perform the different steps of a complex task on its own means two things – firstly, it will save you a lot more time, and secondly, the task AI is taking over could be your job.

This new AI program will require your consent to control your device

However, the deployment of this software necessitates user consent, as it essentially takes over the device to execute its tasks. Additionally, files associated with the AI program’s activities may need to be stored on the user’s device, and OpenAI might require permission to train the AI model using personal data. Notably, OpenAI has trained its computer-using agent models by observing human interactions with computers, including how individuals use various document types like charts and PDFs.

OpenAI is developing another AI model that can perform a variety of web-based tasks such as gathering public data about companies, generating itineraries, or booking flight tickets much more efficiently. While the timeline for the release of these AI products remains undisclosed, they have reportedly been under development for over a year at this point.


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How much does Gemini Advanced Cost?

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How much does Gemini Advanced Cost?
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We’ve been waiting for Google to finally release its most potent AI model, Gemini Advanced. More importantly, we’ve been waiting for the company to tell us how much it was going to cost! Google finally launched Gemini Advanced, and the price is actually comparable to ChatGPT Plus.

Before diving in, have you heard about the new Gemini app?

Today is the biggest Gemini day since its unveiling, and Google hit us with several bits of news. The first has to do with the Gemini app. Available on the Google Play Store, the Gemini app makes it extremely easy to access Google’s powerful AI.

Download the Gemini app

The app is pretty straightforward, with a simple interface. There are query recommendations for you to use. However, you can also dive in using the text field at the bottom of the screen.

Using the app, you’re able to write, speak, and upload pictures for the chatbot to ascertain. It’s just like using Bard, only it’s in the convenient app. You can download the app from the Google Play Store using the link below.

Google finally launched Gemini Advanced

Today, Google announced that Bard has officially been renamed to Gemini. Along with that announcement, the company unveiled Gemini Advanced. This is the most advanced chatbot powered by Google’s Gemini Ultra model. It has advanced reasoning and multimodal capabilities, and it’s pretty much the pinnacle of Google’s AI. Well, it’s the pinnacle of Google’s AI that accessible to the public

In any case, it has plenty of capability for people needing a powerful AI model. It could be for personal use or for small businesses. We’ve all been wondering how much it was going to cost. As you may know, OpenAI has a subscription service for people wanting the most advanced version of ChatGPT. It’s called ChatGPT Plus, and it costs $20/month.

You can access Gemini Advanced through the Google One AI Premium subscription. The subscription service costs $19.99/month. With it, you also get 2TB of storage, 10% back on Google Play Store purchases, more Google Meets features, and more Google Calendar features. Also, coming soon, you will be able to use Gemini in Gmail, docs, and more.

You can check out the subscription plan by going to the official Google One AI premium page.


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Polestar phone will launch with Google Play support

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Polestar phone will launch with Google Play support
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The Polestar phone that was spotted in a short video in late November has now appeared in the Google Play list of supported devices. While other phone features are still unknown, at least we know the device will run on Android, and users will be able to download and install apps via Google Play.

The Volvo-owned EV maker turned to the Chinese OEM Meizu for its phone. So, the phone’s resemblance to Meizu devices should not come as a surprise. Images shown at the Polestar Day event in November confirmed the Polestar phone is made on the chassis of the Meizu 20 series.

Chinese giant car maker Geely is a major shareholder of Meizu and holds a significant portion of Volvo and Polestar. Geely has already announced that the Polestar phone will launch as an accessory for Polestar 4 drivers.

The Polestar phone gains access to the Google Play Store

All Meizu phones rely on Android for their operating system. But they also launch with Flyme OS, a customized Android firmware. Meanwhile, the Polestar phone appears to have its own Android firmware. This version is created based on Flyme OS and aims to give the device a unique look.

Based on the leaked images, the Polestar phone has a rear flat metal frame hosting three camera modules. A 23mm primary camera with an f/1.9 aperture, a 70mm telephoto (f/2.0), and a 15mm ultra-wide lens with an f/2.4 aperture are said to be the exact specifications of the camera setup.

The upcoming Polestar phone is a flagship device. But the Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath noted they don’t aim to compete with giants like Apple and Samsung. As for the hardware, the device is expected to launch with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 processor. The company previously stated the device is exclusive to the Chinese market. However, the Polestar 4’s launch in global markets gives us hope that the Polestar phone could also arrive in markets outside of China.

The EV market seems to be a new playground for smartphone manufacturers. Huawei launched its second EV a few months ago to rival the Tesla Model S. Samsung is also one of the biggest players in the EV battery segment. Meanwhile, Apple has pushed back its EV launch to 2028 due to technical reasons.


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Will Local TV Channels stand in the way of Fox & ESPN’s Mega Sports Streamer?

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Will Local TV Channels stand in the way of Fox & ESPN’s Mega Sports Streamer?
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The big sports channels announced a deal earlier this week that would launch a mega sports streaming service later this year. This includes Disney, Fox, and Warner Bros Discovery, which would see 14 live sports channels in a single streaming service. Now, local Fox and ABC stations are voicing their opinion about this new service. And to no one’s surprise, they want money.

Gray Television, which owns and operates around 113 local TV stations that cover about 36% of the United States, put out a statement about the incoming sports streamer. Stating that “Gray welcomes any venture that expands the reach of local broadcasting stations, which in turn supports the ability of local stations to maintain trusted local news operations that benefit everyone.”

Gray also explains that in this streaming service, the local signals of ABC and FOX broadcasts would be used, which is owned by local broadcasters like Gray. The company also noted that “local affiliated stations not only carry nationally televised sports but also provide local sports coverage, local news and weather, local jobs, and extensive community support.”

Fubo has also raised concerns about the new service

Gray Television isn’t the only one upset with this announcement, and so is Fubo. They are worried that this new venture, which is a pretty heavily sports-focused streaming TV service, would undercut them. Especially where companies like Disney force TV streamers like Fubo to pay them more for carriage to include ESPN in their bundle. Typically, companies that own multiple channels will force carriage agreements to include all of their channels. This is a big reason why cable and streaming TV have gotten so expensive over the past decade.

With this venture, Fubo says that Disney would be cutting out the middleman, which is Fubo in this instance. That would allow Disney to undercut Fubo, YouTube TV, Sling TV, and others by offering ESPN itself versus forcing those TV services to offer it along with a number of other Disney-owned channels.

While this venture is supposed to launch by the end of the year – actually this fall, likely in time for the 2024-25 NBA and NHL seasons – it’s pretty clear that it is going to face a lot of backlash, unfortunately. It’s a good move for consumers but not for companies, and it could squash competition. And that won’t be good for consumers in the long run.


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Fake LastPass Password Manager App Lurks on iOS App Store

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Fake LastPass Password Manager App Lurks on iOS App Store
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The popular LastPass Password Manager application has warned iOS users about a fraudulent app exploiting the app’s name circulating on the official Apple App Store.

Attention, LastPass users! A cunning imposter has infiltrated the iOS App Store, posing as the legitimate LastPass Password Manager app. This fake app, aptly named “LassPass Password Manager,” seeks to deceive users and potentially steal their sensitive login credentials.

Despite slight alterations to the logo and name, the fake LastPass app operates seamlessly to scam unsuspecting users into downloading it, as its colour scheme and font closely mimic those of the original LastPass app.

It all began on February 7, 2024, when LastPass published a blog post warning unsuspecting users to remain vigilant and avoid downloading a fraudulent application. Despite LastPass’s report, the app remains available on the App Store and is developed by an individual using the name Parvati Patel. Interestingly, the developer also has another app on their account, a community service app for India, hinting at their location.

Just to clarify, the LastPass password manager app is owned by GoTo, formerly known as LogMeIn Inc. Therefore, the official app lists LogMeIn Inc., as its developer on the Apple App Store.

Fake LastPass Password Manager app called LassPass Password Manager App (left) – Authentic LastPass Password Manager app (right) (Screenshots: Hackread.com)

IN SUMMARY

  • The fake app: The app is called “LassPass Password Manager” and is listed under the developer name Parvati Patel.
  • Mimicking tactics: The app closely copies LastPass’ branding and user interface, even using similar screenshots, to potentially mislead users into downloading it.
  • Potential dangers: If downloaded, the fake app could steal your login credentials and other sensitive information.
  • Action taken: LastPass is actively working to get the app removed from the App Store and is urging users to be cautious.

The fake app can be seen here, while the authentic one can be downloaded from here.

Nevertheless, this isn’t the first instance of a fake app mimicking a popular developer making its way onto the Apple App Store. In July 2023, Apple approved a fake THREADS app, which later surged to number 1 on the Apple Store in Europe. Interestingly, the original THREADS app had been launched by META just a few days prior to the incident and was not yet available in Europe when the fake one appeared in the store.

  1. Google Deletes Fake BatteryBot Pro Malware App
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  3. Apple removes Clearview AI iPhone app from App Store
  4. Apple removes anti-virus apps from store for “stealing data”
  5. Google removes ClearURLs Chrome extension from app store
  6. Google Removes Swing VPN Android App Exposed as DDoS Botnet

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Galaxy S23 grabs Samsung’s February 2024 update in the US

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Galaxy S23 grabs Samsung’s February 2024 update in the US
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The February 2024 Android security patch is now available for the Galaxy S23 series in the US. Samsung has released the update for the factory-unlocked variants of the 2023 flagship trio. Carrier-locked units should also get the update soon, and so should the international versions of the phones.

Samsung’s February 2024 update is rolling out to the Galaxy S23 series

First reported by X user Tarun Vats, factory-unlocked Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, and Galaxy S23 Ultra units in the US are receiving the February security update with the firmware build number S91*U1UES2BXAD. The OTA (over-the-air) package for the Ultra model weighs just over 402MB. The update for the other two models should also carry similar-sized files.

The official release notes supplied by Samsung state that the update only brings the latest security fixes to the phones. The Galaxy S23 trio isn’t getting anything more. The last major feature update for the lineup was One UI 6.0, which brought Android 14 with tons of new features and functional improvements. The phones will soon get One UI 6.1 with more new features and improvements.

Introduced with the Galaxy S24 series, One UI 6.1 is primarily about AI features. The new version contains AI-powered editing tools that let you quickly move or remove objects from images without much effort. You also get Live Translate for calls and many other AI features. It’s unclear if the Galaxy S23 series will get them all or if Samsung will limit a few to the latest flagships.

Samsung is expected to start rolling out One UI 6.1 to eligible older Galaxy devices soon. The Galaxy S23 trio should be at the top of the priority list. Older foldables and mid-range models will also get the update. We will let you know when the rollout begins. In the meantime, install the latest update on your Galaxy S23 to safeguard your phone from a bunch of security vulnerabilities, including a few critical ones.

The latest security release patches 69 vulnerabilities

The February 2024 SMR (Security Maintenance Release) for Galaxy devices patches 69 vulnerabilities. These include three critical Android OS flaws, some of which allowed remote code execution without requiring additional privileges. Threat actors could exploit those vulnerabilities to gain remote access to affected Android devices. Samsung should soon roll out the new security update to the Galaxy S23 trio globally. As usual, you can go to Settings > Software update > Download and install to check for updates manually.


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Disney planning to launch Standalone ESPN Streaming Service Next Year

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Disney planning to launch Standalone ESPN Streaming Service Next Year
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During its most recent earnings call, Disney mentioned that they are planning to launch a standalone ESPN streaming service in the fall of 2025. This has been talked about before, as Disney is looking to go all-in on making ESPN a streaming service. But now we are getting a bit more details on this service.

Interestingly, this comes just a few days after Fox, Warner Bros Discovery, and Disney announced a combined sports streaming service that would launch this fall. Disney says that its new ESPN service will have more features than the joint streaming service will. However, Disney CEO Bob Iger was pretty vague on what those features might be. Given that the service isn’t expected for another 18 months or so, that’s not a big surprise.

No pricing has been announced; however, it can be bundled with Disney Plus and Hulu.

As expected, Iger did not mention pricing here for this new service. But he did mention that you will be able to bundle it with existing Disney streaming services. Some are predicting that this new ESPN service would cost between $30 and $50. That sounds pretty accurate, considering Bally Sports Plus is $20 per month, and you’re only getting regional games with that service.

Iger said on the Disney earnings call that “we’re excited to offer a more unified streaming experience which we expect will deliver strong benefits in terms of higher engagement, lower churn, and greater advertising opportunities.” Iger continued by saying “When we launch our stand-alone ESPN service, we’ll also make it available on Disney Plus for bundle subscribers, just as we’ve done for Hulu.”

Back in December, Disney started to integrate Disney Plus and Hulu a bit more by adding a section for Hulu within the Disney Plus app. However, it is limited, as it’s primarily original content that is appearing on Hulu inside Disney Plus. This is part of a beta test, but Disney does plan to launch this in the first half of 2024.


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Google renames Bard to “Gemini” and launches Google One AI Premium plan with advanced access

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Google renames Bard to “Gemini” and launches Google One AI Premium plan with advanced access
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Google Bard is now Gemini, just “Gemini.” As announced today by Google, Bard — the company’s web-based chatbot — has now been improved, rebranded, and expanded with the addition of a new Advanced tier bundled into Google One. This is in addition to the new Gemini Android app that also launched today.
Google One, the company’s cloud storage subscription service, now has a new tier called “AI Premium.” This tier includes access to Gemini Advanced — the new version of Gemini, formerly called “Bard”, which includes the latest Ultra 1.0 AI model — for $19.99 a month. Additionally, this new Google One tier gives you 2TB of storage, as well as other Google One benefits currently found in the Premium tier..

Gemini vs Gemini Advanced | Source: gemini.google.com

Google states that Gemini’s Ultra 1.0 LLM model brings new advancements to the world of AI interaction, such as superior processing efficiency, advanced comprehension of instructions and programs, and innovative problem-solving abilities. The model is said to be capable of analyzing and explaining information, and it can even generate high-quality code in multiple programming languages.

Additionally, Google is set to bring Gemini to a range of services including Gmail and Docs. This will allow users to enjoy automated text writing, create unique images, and even enhance video quality in Google Meet.

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With the Google One AI Premium plan, users can try out Gemini Advanced free for two months before the $19.99 subscription kicks in. This should allow users to fully explore Gemini’s capabilities before making a commitment. If you’re someone who heavily relies on Google services and craves advanced functionality, the higher price point of these Google One plans might just be worth it, especially when you consider the 2TB of storage it includes and the upcoming integration with Gmail, Docs, and other Workspace apps.Gemini Advanced is currently only available in English and can be accessed through the web at gemini.google.com or the old bard.google.com URL which automatically redirects. It is also worth mentioning that Gemini is currently in the development phase, and its overall effectiveness in the long run is yet to be determined. In addition, the plan’s emphasis on AI capabilities may not be suitable for all users, especially those who prefer straightforward cloud storage solutions.

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Malicious Android Apps On Play Store Deliver VajraSpy RAT

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Malicious Android Apps On Play Store Deliver VajraSpy RAT
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Heads up, Android users! Another wave of malicious apps has flooded the Google Play Store – this time, distributing the VajraSpy RAT to Android users. While Google removed the apps after knowing the matter, they may continue running on already-targeted devices. Therefore, all Android users must ensure to check their devices for any such apps and remove them immediately.

Numerous VajraSpy Android Apps Flooded Google Play Store

Researchers from ESET have spotted another wave of malicious Android apps barraging users with a potent spyware. Once installed on the device, the apps infect the devices with spyware, identified as “VajraSpy,” to track all device activities and stored data.

They identified at least six different malicious applications running on the Play Store, garnering a significant number of downloads. These apps basically offered communication facility, tricking the users into giving explicit access to the device. These malicious apps include the following.

  • Privee Talk
  • Meet Me
  • Let’s Chat
  • Quick Chat
  • Rafaqat

In addition, some other chat apps also appeared online during the same time period on other sources, bearing similar malicious codes.

The threat actors behind this campaign potentially lured the victims into downloading the apps via romance scams. The campaign has been going around for several years, and the appearance of the first malicious app on the Play Store dates back to 2021. Later, other such apps appeared online, continuing the malware distribution. The researchers identified the prime target for this campaign as the users from Pakistan and India. Detailed technical analysis of this malware is available in ESET’s report.

Following the researchers’ report, Google removed the identified malicious apps from the Play Store. Besides, it also assures protecting users’ devices via its Play Protect feature, which will alert the users upon detecting any reported apps running on the device. Nonetheless, users must still scan their devices manually for potential threats. In addition, all users must ensure using apps from trusted publishers only, even when downloading the apps from the Play Store.

Let us know your thoughts in the comments.


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US Credit Union Service Leaks Millions of Records and Passwords in Plain Text

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US Credit Union Service Leaks Millions of Records and Passwords in Plain Text
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Uncover the risks posed by a data leak exposing over 3 million vulnerable records, internal communications, client details, and plaintext passwords – Explore proactive cybersecurity measures to mitigate threats.

Cybersecurity researcher Jeremiah Fowler made a significant discovery: a 13 GB misconfigured cloud database resembling a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system, reportedly linked to CU Solutions Group, a Michigan-based credit union service provider.

The data leak’s severity was made worse by two critical factors: firstly, it was left publicly accessible without any security authentication or password protection. Secondly, the server contained over 3 million records (3,125,660 in total), including a collection of sensitive information. This included over 1 million email conversations, internal notes, clients’ full names, physical addresses, details about thousands of credit unions across the United States, email addresses, and plaintext passwords.

In his blog post for Website Planet, Fowler detailed how he contacted CU Solutions Group for responsible disclosure, leading to the company securing the server on the same day. However, representatives of the company attributed the misconfiguration to a possible mismanagement by a third-party vendor, leaving the actual responsibility unclear.

Nevertheless, despite the database being secured, uncertainty remains regarding whether malicious threat actors, aside from Fowler (the good guy), had accessed it before the researcher’s report. If they had, it could lead to the breach being circulated on cybercrime forums. This, in turn, could result in additional cybersecurity threats, including ransomware attacks, spam, identity theft, account takeover due to plaintext passwords, phishing attacks, and more.

US Credit Union Service Leaks Millions of Records and Passwords in Plain Text

If you are registered with CU Solutions Group, it is a good time to contact the company and inquire about the data leak. Additionally, enable 2FA on your account and keep an eye on any suspicious activity on it.

Database misconfiguration is a top cybersecurity threat. It allows threat actors to access a trove of data hardly without looking and exploiting for vulnerabilities or breaching a system. Anyone with knowledge of how to surf the Shodan search engine can access these databases.

Here’s what companies can do to secure a misconfigured database and prevent exposure:

1. Identify and Fix Misconfigurations:

  • Vulnerability Scanning: Regularly scan your database for known vulnerabilities and misconfigurations using dedicated tools.
  • Manual Reviews: Conduct periodic manual reviews of database configurations against security best practices.
  • Focus on Privileges: Analyze and adjust user privileges to grant only the minimum access required for each role.

2. Implement Strong Authentication and Access Control:

  • Multi-factor Authentication (MFA): Mandate MFA for all database users, adding an extra layer of security beyond passwords.
  • Principle of Least Privilege: Implement the principle of least privilege, ensuring users only have access to the data they need.
  • Monitor User Activity: Monitor user activity within the database for suspicious behaviour or unauthorized access attempts.

3. Encrypt Sensitive Data:

  • Data at Rest: Encrypt sensitive data stored within the database to protect it from unauthorized access even if breached.
  • Data in Transit: Encrypt data during transmission between applications and the database to prevent interception.

4. Implement Backups and Disaster Recovery:

  • Regular Backups: Regularly back up your database to a secure location for recovery in case of data loss or corruption.
  • Disaster Recovery Plan: Develop and test a disaster recovery plan to ensure quick and efficient recovery from cyberattacks or other incidents.

5. Stay Updated and Informed:

  • Patch Management: Apply security patches and updates to your database software promptly to address known vulnerabilities.
  • Security Awareness Training: Educate your staff on database security best practices and potential threats.
  • Stay Informed: Follow cybersecurity news and advisories to stay updated on emerging threats and mitigation strategies.
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