More on Apple's Trust-Eroding 'F1 the Movie' Wallet Ad
from daringfireball.net
896
by
dotcoma
1d ago
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Article:
4 min
The article discusses the negative impact of Apple's Wallet app sending a push notification promoting 'F1 The Movie', which is seen as an invasion of privacy and trust erosion for users who have been led to believe that their financial, identity, and key information are secure within the app.
Privacy concerns may lead to decreased trust in digital wallets and potential regulatory scrutiny for Apple
- Ads in Wallet app are seen as intrusive
- Perception of privacy is crucial for user trust
- Potential tracking implications
Quality:
The article presents an opinion piece with a clear bias against Apple's decision, but it does cite sources and present both sides of the argument.
Discussion (587):
2 hr 10 min
The comment thread discusses various opinions on Apple's recent actions, particularly regarding privacy concerns and marketing decisions. Users express concern over wallet ads being seen as a breach of trust in the company's commitment to user privacy. There is also debate about Apple's business model beyond hardware sales and whether it should rely more on advertising revenue. The discussion highlights the community's mixed feelings towards Apple's taste and marketing strategies, with some seeing them as a departure from past values.
- Apple's privacy policy has been compromised by wallet ads.
Counterarguments:
- Apple's focus on privacy is a strategic move to differentiate themselves from competitors like Google, who rely heavily on advertising revenue.
- Apple's hardware sales are still strong, suggesting that their business model remains viable without relying on advertising.
- The criticism of Apple's taste and marketing decisions may not be representative of the majority of users.
Technology
Privacy & Security, Apple
I made my VM think it has a CPU fan
from wbenny.github.io
569
by
todsacerdoti
23h ago
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Article:
19 min
The article explains how to make a virtual machine think it has a CPU fan by customizing its SMBIOS data. It covers the process of detecting and faking the presence of a CPU fan in both Xen and QEMU/KVM environments, including disassembling cimwin32.dll, understanding SMBIOS type 27 and 28, and providing detailed steps for setting custom SMBIOS data.
This technique can be used by security researchers to test virtualization environments for vulnerabilities or by malware developers to evade detection. It highlights the importance of understanding BIOS data manipulation in virtual machines and the need for robust security measures.
- Malware detection in virtual machines using CPU fan presence
- Disassembling cimwin32.dll to understand how it retrieves fan information from SMBIOS
- Understanding SMBIOS types 27 (Cooling Device) and 28 (Temperature Probe)
Quality:
The article provides detailed, step-by-step instructions with technical depth and avoids sensational language.
Discussion (140):
29 min
The discussion revolves around various aspects of malware detection, virtualization, and security. Participants share technical insights on how malware operates, the limitations of antivirus software, and the role of virtualization in enhancing security measures. The conversation also touches upon emerging topics like hardware-level security and user-end protection strategies.
- Malware detection methods can be detected statically and flagged by antivirus software.
- Legitimate programs may use APIs that are also used by malware, making it difficult to distinguish between the two.
- Virtualization can help in detecting malware but has its limitations.
Counterarguments:
- Some argue that virtualization can be detected by malware, reducing its effectiveness.
- Others suggest alternative methods for malware detection or protection.
Computer Science
Virtualization, Operating Systems
Show HN: Octelium – FOSS Alternative to Teleport, Cloudflare, Tailscale, Ngrok
from github.com/octelium
322
by
geoctl
1d ago
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Article:
30 min
Octelium is an open-source platform designed as a modern alternative to remote access tools like Teleport, Cloudflare, Tailscale, and Ngrok. It offers unified zero trust resource access for various use cases such as remote access, ZTNA architecture, secure tunnels, PaaS-like hosting, API gateway, AI gateway, and more.
Octelium's open-source nature and unified approach to remote access could significantly impact the industry by offering a cost-effective, self-hosted alternative to proprietary solutions, potentially reducing vendor lock-in and promoting more secure practices.
- Built for modern remote access with zero-config client-based over WireGuard/QUIC tunnels.
- Offers a ZTNA platform, secure tunnels infrastructure, and PaaS-like hosting.
- Supports API gateway, AI gateway, and MCP gateways.
- Provides continuous strong authentication using web identity providers or workload authentication via OIDC.
- Features context-aware access control with policies-as-code.
Discussion (140):
1 hr 3 min
Octelium is presented as a self-hosted, open-source platform for zero trust resource access with capabilities spanning remote access, ZTNA/BeyondCorp, API/AI gateways, and more. While users appreciate its wide range of functionalities, there are concerns about clarity in documentation, security implications, and the complexity of integrating it into existing infrastructure.
- It can operate as a remote access/corporate VPN, ZTNA/BeyondCorp platform, API/AI gateway, and more.
- The project is designed to be self-hosted and open source.
Counterarguments:
- The initial setup guide may be confusing for users unfamiliar with zero trust architectures.
- Security implications are a concern when considering an open-source alternative to commercial solutions.
- There is a lack of clarity regarding how Octelium integrates with existing infrastructure and its impact on workflows.
Software Development
Cloud Computing, Open Source, Security
Many ransomware strains will abort if they detect a Russian keyboard installed (2021)
from krebsonsecurity.com
319
by
air7
18h ago
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Article:
12 min
The article discusses a unique ransomware defense mechanism that prevents malware from installing on computers with certain virtual keyboards, specifically Russian or Ukrainian ones, as these are associated with Eastern European countries where the cybercriminals behind ransomware attacks typically avoid targeting due to legal and scrutiny reasons. The focus is on the DarkSide ransomware group, which has been referenced in President Biden's Executive Order on cybersecurity.
This defense mechanism could potentially reduce the risk of ransomware attacks for users in certain countries, but it does not guarantee complete protection against all malware. It also highlights the geopolitical considerations that cybercriminals take into account when targeting victims.
- Virtually all ransomware strains have a failsafe to prevent installation on computers with specific virtual keyboards, such as Russian or Ukrainian.
- The exclusion list includes countries from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), former Soviet satellites with favorable relations with Russia.
- DarkSide and other Russian-language affiliate programs bar their criminal associates from installing malware in Eastern European countries like Ukraine and Russia to avoid scrutiny from local authorities.
- DarkSide's recent attempt to distance itself from Colonial Pipeline attack by claiming it is 'apolitical' and not involved in geopolitics.
Quality:
The article provides factual information and analysis without expressing personal opinions or biases.
Discussion (177):
34 min
The comment thread discusses various aspects of ransomware, malware targeting, and security strategies. Opinions vary on the effectiveness of non-admin accounts in Windows for protection against malware, with some advocating defense in depth approaches. The presence of Russian keyboards is mentioned as a potential target for NSA malware, leading to discussions about cultural markers and AI translation verification.
- The presence of a Russian keyboard makes it attractive to NSA malware.
Cybersecurity
Malware & Ransomware
Loss of key US satellite data could send hurricane forecasting back 'decades'
from theguardian.com
305
by
trauco
19h ago
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Article:
13 min
A critical US atmospheric data collection program, the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP), will be halted by June 30, 2025, potentially setting hurricane forecasting back decades as it provides unique information on Arctic sea ice and hurricane development.
The abrupt halt in data collection could set hurricane forecasting back decades, potentially leading to less accurate predictions and increased risks for affected populations during severe weather events.
- The DMSP satellites are a primary source of information for scientists to monitor Arctic sea ice and hurricane development.
- The abrupt halt in data collection could set hurricane forecasting back decades, especially as this year’s season ramps up.
- Noaa says the quality of forecasting will not be affected by the changes.
Quality:
The article provides a balanced view of the situation, presenting both sides and the potential impacts.
Discussion (136):
26 min
The comment thread discusses the potential impact on hurricane prediction and insurance due to the government's decision to halt processing and public access to satellite data. Opinions vary regarding the satellites' status, with some believing they are still operating normally while others argue that their loss is exaggerated. The conversation also touches on private sector involvement in satellite services.
- Data halt might have been intentional
- Insurance companies will charge more due to lack of hurricane data
Counterarguments:
- Satellites were not destroyed or de-orbited
- Loss is exaggerated
Environment
Climate Change, Weather Forecasting
The $25k car is going extinct?
from media.hubspot.com
223
by
pseudolus
21h ago
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Article:
11 min
The article discusses how affordable cars priced under $25,000 are becoming scarce due to higher profit margins on more expensive vehicles and the preference of dealers for stocking pricier models. This has led to a decrease in sales of budget-friendly vehicles from 23% in 2019 to 4.8% in February 2025.
The scarcity of budget-friendly vehicles may lead to increased financial strain on consumers, particularly those with lower incomes or during economic downturns.
- Ford's Maverick compact pickup truck was popular but saw a 41% price hike from its initial release.
- Many brands associated with budget-friendly vehicles experienced above-average price increases, while luxury brands saw smaller increases or even lower prices than in 2019.
- Lower-end models such as the Chevy Spark and Ford Fiesta have been discontinued by manufacturers.
Quality:
The article provides a balanced view of the factors contributing to the decline in affordable car sales.
Discussion (587):
2 hr 37 min
The comment thread discusses various aspects of car ownership, including the high cost of cars, the role of regulations and consumer demand, and alternative transportation options. Opinions vary on whether cars are necessities or status symbols, with some arguing that they serve as a reflection of one's personality while others highlight their impact on upward mobility for lower-income earners. The thread also touches on the availability of affordable vehicles and the influence of public transportation accessibility.
- The cost of cars is a significant barrier to upward mobility for lower-income earners in the U.S.
- Regulations prevent the sale of small, cheap trucks in the US.
Counterarguments:
- There are alternative transportation options available in some areas that can be more affordable than car ownership.
- Car ownership is not universally considered a necessity or status symbol; it varies by region and personal preference.
- Regulations aimed at promoting environmental sustainability may inadvertently limit the availability of certain vehicle types.
Automotive
Industry News, Economics
Bloom Filters by Example
from llimllib.github.io
219
by
ibobev
1d ago
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Article:
11 min
This article provides a detailed explanation of Bloom filters, including their structure, operation, and optimization. It also discusses the choice of hash functions, size determination, and potential applications.
Bloom filters can significantly improve the performance of systems that require fast set membership queries, potentially leading to more efficient and scalable applications.
- Bloom filters are probabilistic data structures designed for rapid and memory-efficient set membership queries.
- They use a bit vector as the base structure, with elements added through multiple hash functions.
- The optimal number of hash functions can be calculated using the formula (m/n)ln(2), where m is the number of bits and n is the expected number of elements.
- Bloom filters offer O(k) time complexity for insertion and membership testing, but have a trade-off between false positive rate and space efficiency.
- They are used in various applications such as network applications, bioinformatics, and databases.
Discussion (34):
7 min
The comment thread discusses Bloom filters and their applications in optimizing membership checks. Participants share personal experiences with implementing and using Bloom filters, particularly within Chromium's Blink engine and iBooks for search purposes. The thread also touches on related concepts like hash functions and collision resolution.
- Bloom filters are effective for optimizing membership checks
- Chromium utilizes Bloom filters in multiple contexts
Computer Science
Data Structures
Personal care products disrupt the human oxidation field
from science.org
194
by
XzetaU8
19h ago
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Article:
2 hr 23 min
This study investigates the impact of personal care products (PCPs) on the human oxidation field in indoor environments. The researchers found that PCPs, including fragrances and body lotions, can suppress the generation of hydroxyl radicals (OH), which are crucial for oxidizing chemical compounds indoors. Specifically, they observed a decrease in OH concentration when participants applied lotion or fragrance to their skin. This is due to the emission of volatile ingredients from these products that enhance OH loss in the gas phase and reduce the production of OH through reactions with ozone on human skin. The study highlights the potential implications for indoor chemistry and human health, suggesting that PCPs may affect the chemical composition of air in occupied spaces.
- Reduction in OH concentration affects indoor air quality
Quality:
The article presents detailed experimental findings and analysis, providing a comprehensive view of the topic.
Discussion (140):
23 min
The comment thread discusses various scientific studies and personal experiences related to indoor air chemistry, health implications of personal care products, environmental chemistry, and safety thresholds for ozone exposure. The conversation includes opinions on the effectiveness of negative ion generators, antioxidants in lotions, and the impact of ozone on human health. There is a mix of agreement and debate among commenters, with some instances of sarcasm and humor.
- Negative ion generators can produce both positive and negative ions.
Counterarguments:
- Ozone is hazardous at high concentrations, especially for prolonged exposure.
- Antioxidant supplements may not provide any benefit and could potentially be harmful.
Science
Environmental Science, Chemistry
We accidentally solved robotics by watching 1M hours of YouTube
from ksagar.bearblog.dev
184
by
alexcos
20h ago
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Article:
13 min
Researchers have developed V-JEPA 2, a robotics system that uses 1 million hours of YouTube videos to predict physical actions in 3D space. This approach allows robots to understand physics better than traditional language models and successfully perform tasks like picking up objects they've never seen before.
The solution could lead to more autonomous robots that can perform a wide range of tasks, potentially reducing the need for human intervention and increasing efficiency in various industries.
- Scaled up from 2 million to 22 million videos and 1 million images for training.
- Uses a ViT-g encoder with 1 billion parameters, a smaller predictor network, and 3D-RoPE for better performance.
- Masking strategy in the training process to predict missing video segments.
Discussion (129):
25 min
The comment thread discusses various topics including copyright, AI, and the ethics of scraping public data. Opinions vary regarding the impact of US administration policies on copyright law, with some arguing that they are dismantling copyright for AI-related work. The death of Aaron Swartz is also a recurring theme, with opinions differing on whether it was due to copyright infringement or other factors. There is debate over the ethics and legality of scraping public data, particularly in relation to YouTube's terms of service.
- YouTube's ToS may not allow massive scraping.
- The current power is dismantling copyright for AI related work.
Counterarguments:
- Aaron Swartz died due to illness, not copyright infringement.
- The system should protect people like Aaron Swartz from being hounded to death.
Robotics
AI/Deep Learning, Computer Vision