Apple confirms it keeps Siri data for up to two years (update : Google too)
Apple confirmed suspicions that users’ data from Siri is held onto for up to two years; Google has also confirmed that it’s “Voice Search Assistant” feature does as well.
Representative Edward Markey released data on Monday from the largest mobile phone companies in the United States showing more than 1.3 million requests by law enforcement agencies for cell phone records in 2011.
Verizon Wireless, the No. 1 U.S. carrier, reported an annual 15 percent spike in requests, and No. 4 carrier T-Mobile USA said it has seen a 12 percent to 16 percent increase each year.
“We cannot allow privacy protections to be swept aside with the sweeping nature of these information requests, especially for innocent consumers,” said Markey, a senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. “Law enforcement agencies are looking for a needle, but what are they doing with the haystack?”
READ MORE: Cell phone companies see spike in surveillance requests
Malicious QR Codes
QR Codes are all over now, offering a quick scan with your smartphone to access their website. But what if those codes didn’t take you to the website, but rather some other website that could cause damage to your device or your personal information?
Source: pcworld.com
Facebook: Users clueless to Privacy Settings
Privacy Settings are on Facebook for a reason. If you don’t use yours, literally the entire world can see everything you post. (If you are under 18, some features are on automatically, but even then your data isn’t as safe as it could or should be) Insurers can check your profile for medical pages you like, and adjust your rates dependent on it. (Legally) Employers can get a personal look into your “private life”. The government can track your every activity. Burglars know when you leave your house, and stalkers know where you are going and when. They do this with your help, if you aren’t educated in online security.
Source: pcworld.com
Privacy: Facebook Apps and Websites
How does your favorite site stack up?
Source: pcworld.com
