CyberSecurity Knuggets
May 11, 2025
Recently, Riot Games has been implementing a new anti-cheat system called Vanguard to combat cheating in video games. This system accesses players’ computers at a kernel level to prevent cheating, showcasing the ongoing battle against cheats in the gaming industry. The issue goes beyond technology, as Riot Games also infiltrates cheater communities to gather information and take action. This highlights the need for constant vigilance and innovative solutions to address cheating in games.
A concerning issue that has surfaced is the hyperpersonalized ads on Facebook, which allegedly target vulnerable groups like young teens based on their emotional state and actions. Former Facebook insider Sarah Wynn-Williams’ book sheds light on the exploitation of users’ vulnerabilities for advertising purposes, raising questions about the ethical implications of targeted advertising. This highlights the impact on individuals, especially young and impressionable users, and the need for stricter regulations to protect privacy and well-being.
The comparison between the UN Cybercrime Convention and the Budapest Convention raises concerns about global cybercrime legislation. With Russia’s involvement in the UN Convention negotiations and potential reintroduction of problematic criminalization proposals, there are fears about the impact on free expression and privacy rights. The transparency of the negotiation process and involvement of stakeholders underscore the importance of ensuring that global cybercrime laws safeguard individuals’ rights and freedoms.
The fast-tracking of millennial coder Carlo Acutis to sainthood prompts discussions about modern-day saints and their relevance in today’s society. His canonization and use of technology as a coder and gamer bring the concept of holiness into the digital age, challenging traditional beliefs and practices. This unconventional path to sainthood encourages reflection on how spirituality intersects with technology in a rapidly changing world.
Lastly, the Meta antitrust trial’s focus on the short lifetime of digital apps highlights the challenges of regulating tech giants in an ever-evolving technology landscape. The rapid changes in the tech industry, from social networking to AI and quantum computing, pose challenges for regulators in keeping up with innovation. This trial emphasizes the need for comprehensive regulations that address emerging issues in the tech sector to ensure fair competition and consumer protection.
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