Addressing Radiation Concerns with Apple's iPhone 12 Software Update

Apple has recently adopted a proactive attitude in resolving concerns about electromagnetic radiation emissions from its iPhone 12 model. This issue was brought to light when France banned the sale of iPhone 12 devices and even considered a recall.

The prohibition was prompted by findings from France's National Frequency Agency (ANFR) that the iPhone 12's Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) surpassed the allowed limitations set by EU standards. In response to these concerns, Apple has stated that it will release a software update to alleviate radiation levels worries. This research analyzes the situation's specifics and considers the repercussions for Apple and consumers.

The iPhone 12 Radiation Controversy:

At the heart of this controversy lies the SAR, which measures the rate at which the human body absorbs electromagnetic radiation when close to a wireless device. SAR values are subject to regulatory limits to ensure user safety. In the case of the iPhone 12, France's ANFR discovered that the SAR levels exceeded the established limits, prompting concerns about potential health hazards associated with prolonged exposure to the device.

Apple's Response:

Apple replied quickly to these concerns, claiming that the higher SAR level detected by the ANFR was due to a particular testing technique used by French regulators. The company stressed that the difference did not imply any safety concerns. Despite this promise, Apple understood the need to address French authorities' and iPhone 12 consumer concerns in the country. As a result, the internet behemoth promised to create and deliver a software upgrade customized to French regulators' testing process.

Government Assurance:

Jean-Noel Barrot, France's Minister for Digital Transition and Telecommunications, was pivotal in mediating between Apple and French regulatory authorities. He confirmed Apple's commitment to update the iPhone 12 within the coming days. This assurance has helped ease concerns within the French government, as it demonstrates a proactive approach by Apple to align with French regulatory requirements.

Public Health and User Safety:

Apple and Minister Barrot stated that the iPhone 12 does not endanger public health due to radiation emissions. This comfort is critical for the millions of iPhone 12 users because it emphasizes the security of their device usage. Users can continue to use their three-year-old iPhone 12 models without concern for their health.

A Closer Look at SAR:

To gain a deeper understanding of this issue, it's essential to examine the concept of SAR more closely. SAR is typically measured in watts per kilogram (W/kg) and quantifies the amount of electromagnetic radiation absorbed by the body's tissues near a wireless device. Regulatory bodies worldwide have established SAR limits to ensure that electronic devices, including smartphones, do not emit radiation at levels that could potentially harm users.

Variability in SAR Values:

SAR levels might differ not just between smartphone models but also between specific units of the same model. SAR values can be influenced by factors such as device design, antenna positioning, and power settings. As a result, changes in SAR results during testing are not unusual, depending on the procedures utilized by different regulatory bodies or testing facilities.

Safeguarding User Health:

The primary concern surrounding SAR values is user safety. Smartphones and other wireless devices must operate within established SAR limits to prevent adverse health effects, such as thermal heating or tissue damage. Regulatory agencies, including the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States and the European Union (EU), have set SAR limits to safeguard the well-being of consumers.

Regulatory Compliance:

Compliance with SAR restrictions is critical to device design and testing for smartphone makers such as Apple. Compliance ensures user safety and allows for the smooth distribution and sale of devices across many regions, including the EU.

The Role of Testing Protocols:

However, variations in SAR values can occur due to differences in testing protocols employed by regulatory bodies and testing facilities. These protocols dictate how SAR measurements are taken and can influence the results. It's worth noting that some countries or regions may employ specific testing protocols that differ from internationally recognized standards.

Apple's Commitment to Addressing the Issue:

In light of the iPhone 12 radiation scandal in France, Apple's pledge to release a software update demonstrates the company's commitment to user safety and regulatory compliance. The upcoming upgrade is expected to accord with the testing process used by French authorities, addressing the ANFR's concerns.

Implications for Apple:

This incident highlights the importance of vigilance in adhering to regional regulatory requirements for Apple. While the company maintains that the iPhone 12 poses no threat to public health, it acknowledges the need to respect and comply with the specific protocols of individual countries or regions to ensure the unhindered availability of its products.

Implications for Consumers:

This incident underlines the need to remain informed about consumer device safety and regulatory compliance. It also highlights the responsiveness of IT corporations like Apple in resolving user safety and regulatory adherence concerns. Users may rest assured that Apple takes its obligation to protect their safety seriously.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Apple's decision to release a software update for the iPhone 12 in response to concerns over radiation emissions in France signifies a commitment to user safety and regulatory compliance. Smartphone SAR levels vary due to testing methodologies, and Apple's proactive approach demonstrates its commitment to meeting regional regulatory standards. Users may be confident that their iPhone 12 devices are secure, and this occurrence serves as a reminder of the significance of maintaining up-to-date device safety and regulatory standards.

Read next: New Study Reveals What Features Are Making People Buy the iPhone 15
by Rubah Usman via Digital Information World

Autism Misinformation Has Become Extremely Common on TikTok

Autism is one of the most widely misunderstood disorders in the world, with perhaps the most common type of misinformation being that it can be caused by vaccines. Modern medical industries have managed to spread a lot of facts about autism, but in spite of the fact that this is the case, misinformation continues to thrive particularly on social media platforms such as TikTok.

A new study that was published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders revealed that many of the videos about autism on TikTok contain outright falsehoods with all things having been considered and taken into account. Such a trend is dangerous because of the fact that this is the sort of thing that could potentially end up making autistic individuals further secluded from society and marginalized to an even greater degree than might have been the case otherwise.

With all of that having been said and now out of the way, it is important to note that 73% of the videos that were analyzed as part of this research were found to contain inaccurate claims or information that was overly generalized. When compared to videos that actually presented the facts, hardly any difference was seen in terms of how many views they were getting.

This seems to suggest that people are having a hard time figuring out the difference between misinformation and facts. Some videos go so far as to suggest that there might be a cure for autism, even though autism spectrum disorder is not usually seen as the type of disorder that can be fixed with any single or particular cure.

However, it bears mentioning that TikTok is not all bad. It also gives families the chance to provide their own personal experiences with living with autism. All that matters is that the focus be placed on actual people that are on the spectrum, rather than those that are just trying to get as many views as possible. The endless controversy surrounding this topic often contributes to it becoming so popular to post online, even if the information has not been vetted by the scientific community.

Read next: Search Results On TikTok Now Include A Snippet And Link To Wikipedia
by Zia Muhammad via Digital Information World

This New Exploit Can Steal Passwords Through Keystrokes

The theft of passwords can be disastrous because of the fact that this is the sort of thing that could potentially end up widespread loss of personal and private data. Malicious actors use a wide variety of techniques in order to get their hands on other people’s log in credentials, and a new security flaw revealed by Chinese and Singaporean researchers suggested that they can even detect keystrokes.

With all of that having been said and now out of the way, it is important to note that BFI (beamforming feedback information) is at the center of this new exploit. This refers to beamforming feedback information, allowing for more accurate location information, and directing signals specifically to the routers that requested them.

It turns out that a core component of BFI transmits this information in plain text, which makes it far easier to steal than might have been the case otherwise. Indeed, malicious actors might not even need to do any hacking or cracking to obtain the key to decrypt this data with all things having been considered and taken into account.

The researchers involved in this study are calling this Wiki-Eve, and it bears mentioning that it can detect keystrokes with as much as 88.9% accuracy. Furthermore, malicious actors don’t even need to install a rogue program which allows them to execute their attacks in greater quantities.

This is just the latest in a series of side-channel attacks that have come to the fore. Such attacks are placing an enormous strain on cybersecurity infrastructure, which is already facing considerable pushback from malicious actors around the world. The most important thing to remember here is that there is no telling where a new vulnerability might arise from, which makes it crucial to constantly check cybersecurity for gaps.

The only way to prevent Wiki-Eve from gleaning passwords through keystrokes is to encrypt the data that is sent through BFI. Failing to do so could lead to password theft becoming more commonplace. Using two factor authentication can also be seen as a positive step in the right direction since it creates an additional layer of security for all accounts.

Read next: Sick of Socially Engineered Attack Ads? This New Tool Might Be the Key
by Zia Muhammad via Digital Information World

Pinterest Showcases Its New Ad Tool And Creative Option Lineup At Its Virtual Event As CEO Pledges For A Safer App For All

Pinterest is really making leaps and bounds of progress as recently showcased in its virtual event.

The company is really going the extra mile in terms of adding new functionalities through which it feels users can benefit. And that includes the unveiling of its latest ad tool lineup, alongside some more creative options.

There were so many products to rave about and one of those was the Showcase Ads which happens to be the latest option that users can use to make ads. Similarly, we saw the company talking about a new collages tab too.

Hence, we’ve rounded up the main pointers for our readers below.

For starters, you can say hello to the new Premiere Spotlight advertising units that can be found in more than one place on the platform. Moreover, at the start, the Premiere Spotlight allowed brands to own their own Search page on the platform. And that really provided it with the best kind of placement, rising straight to the top.

Now, users will be given the chance to benefit from ads of a similar size that could be used for the feed too, giving a huge advertising opportunity for this platform.

We can see how such an endeavor is going to be booming for those who are in search of launching new products as it gives them a first-hand opportunity to engage with audiences and let them see what’s on display.

You might use this to publish any kind of manual or guide to be used in a product or produce an explainer to ensure a better understanding of a certain element. Similarly, quiz ads could be used to ensure the best engagement arises by motivating more and more people to put out the right questions.

Additionally, the app will launch the ability to include direct links, other than the usual deep-linking on mobiles that we’re already witnessing. The latter was launched in July of this year and has been deemed to be very helpful in terms of users getting the right kind of engagement.

Now, this new addition is being seen as a great chance to help get more traffic on a certain website. After all, they direct the user from one Pinterest advertisement to another retailer’s webpage, through a simple click of a button.

Other than that, the platform has big plans to include integrations for Salesforce Commerce and Adobe Commerce. The former and latter are native apps that make it so much simpler for businesses to manage the Pins which can get shopped as it displays the various kinds on the platform.

Lastly, we’re hearing more about how the Pinterest app is working on giving users a better platform for managing their businesses. This would be for agencies as the company works to enhance advertising performance by revamping it.

Pinterest started its virtual event after the company’s CEO came forward and pledged to a healthier and safer user in-app experience so that all can benefit.

He spoke about how the rates of mental illness were on the rise and the younger lot were more affected than others. Therefore, he wanted to make it a point how the company is working on bettering users’ emotional well-being.

Furthermore, it was interesting to see how he pledged that if the app failed to stand true to its promise of fulfilling its goals and promises, then it shouldn’t work with them. And that really touched people’s hearts as ad revenue is a huge means by which the company makes profits.

Read next: Pinterest Adds Innovative Body Type Matching Filter That’s Powered By AI Systems
by Dr. Hura Anwar via Digital Information World

Sick of Socially Engineered Attack Ads? This New Tool Might Be the Key

The digital advertising landscape is unfortunately rife with all manner of attack ads that try to claim that a user has been infected with a virus and must immediately install a virus protection software from the site. Other attack ads are also quite commonplace, and they all use social engineering to make themselves seem more legitimate than might have been the case otherwise.

With all of that having been said and now out of the way, it is important to note that researchers at Georgia Tech may have finally created a solution for this problem. They have developed an add-on called Titan which apparently has the ability to block 100% of all attack ads and deceptive ads that you might see on a search engine results page.

The main issue with the advertising industry is that it can be a great place for malicious actors to find unsuspecting victims. This new tool is important because of the fact that this is the sort of thing that could potentially end up keeping these ads away from users, thereby preventing them from falling prey to them anytime soon.

The team that developed this new tool was spearheaded by Zheng Yang, and they collectively created a dataset that comprised over 100,000 sites from around the world. This revealed nearly 1,500 attacks, or 1,479 to be precise. Tech support, software downloads and scareware are some of the most common things being offered in these attack ads. Dating and notification scams also pop up quite frequently, as do ads that claim that you have won some kind of a prize.

One of the most astounding facts from this study is that the tool had false positive rate of just 2.57%. This means that over 97% of all of the ads that were blocked did turn out to be attack ads to one extent or another. As a result, legitimate ads have a very low level of likelihood of getting blocked, although it will be interesting to see what the results look like in a real world setting when it is tested.

Read next: A Recent Study Sheds Light on AI Hallucinations and What Society Thinks of Them
by Zia Muhammad via Digital Information World

Google's $93 Million Lesson for Honesty in Location Data

This news reminds me of one of those movie scenes where a person keeps track of another person's location without their permission. Now, the stalker might be doing it out of love, or either he is a psychopath or serial killer. But wait, have you ever wondered that Google might be keeping our locations? Not out of love, for sure.

In a recent legal tango between the California Attorney General and tech giant Google, the digital behemoth has been slapped with a whopping $93 million bill. Why? It turns out that Google's vision of controlling location data was about as clear as mud in a California riverbed during a drought. But don't worry dear reader; justice has won, and consumers in the sunny state can now enjoy greater protections.

The legal fight, which might make even the most challenging jigsaw piece appear simple, revolved over Google's somewhat shady approach to user control over location data. In this case, Google's behavior was compared to a magician's sleight of hand, providing consumers the illusion of choice in using their location data for targeted adverts.

Imagine navigating Google's labyrinthine settings menu and stumbling upon "Location History," a digital breadcrumb trail of your past adventures. Initially, this feature is about as active as a sloth on a Sunday morning - it's off by default. But here's the rub: users were continually prodded with the enticing options of "Yes, I'm in" or "Skip for now," as if they were being offered backstage passes to an exclusive concert. They had no idea that selecting either choice was equivalent to unlocking Pandora's box, unleashing Location History for purposes far beyond "enhancing" Google Maps.

If you were smart enough to keep your Location History switched off, Google would pat you on the back and promise you that "the places you go to are no longer stored." But wait, there's more! In a plot twist worthy of a Hollywood movie, it was proven in 2018 that this allegation was utterly false. Instead, Google had its eyes on your "Web and App Activity," a sneaky feature that shadowed your every move whenever you used other Google apps and services.

Yet, hang tight; we're not finished at this point. The situation started to get interesting as Google, with a shrewd smile, offered clients the decision between "Show me customized promotions" and "Show me advertisements that aren't customized" at signup. Avoiding designated adverts seemed to be a primary choice, correct? Wrong. With a wink and a grin, Google figured out how to send those ads your direction regardless of your area.

This cat-and-mouse game may have entertained some, but California isn't exactly a playground for such misbehavior. The state has strict regulations against such fraud, and Google couldn't get out of the legal quagmire this time.

In a settlement that may or may not include a subtle eye-roll emoji, Google will pay the Golden State a cool $93 million. In addition to the hefty sum, Google has begrudgingly agreed to abide by a set of new rules governing its location services and communications. Here's a quick rundown of Google's new do's and don'ts for the Californians among us:

More apparent Account Settings: Google must give users additional information when enabling location-related account settings. There will be no more hiding in the fine print!

Transparency is essential: More transparency regarding location monitoring is on the way. Google has to shed some light on its murky practices.

Location Data Disclosure: Through a user-friendly "Location Technologies" web page, users can now access complete information on the location data Google collects and how it is utilized.

Location Data for Ads: Google must come clean and inform users that their location information may be used to tailor those pesky ads.

No Sneaky Business: Google should now illuminate clients before utilizing Area History information to make promotions focusing on profiles. No more back-door dealings.

Privacy Watchdog: Google will keep an internal Privacy Working Group, ensuring all changes to location-setting and ad personalization disclosures are legit and privacy-friendly.

So, there you have it. Californians have benefited from Google's $93 million blunder by having a more honest, transparent, and user-friendly experience. It demonstrates that even tech titans cannot avoid the long arm of the law. And who knows, perhaps in the future, there will be less smoke and mirrors and more transparent procedures in the world of technology. But, in the meantime, keep an eye on your privacy settings and keep in mind that Google may be watching.

Read next: The Growing Adoption Of AI Will Have Drastic Effects On Climate Change, Environmentalists Warn
by Rubah Usman via Digital Information World

The Growing Adoption Of AI Will Have Drastic Effects On Climate Change, Environmentalists Warn

The world of AI has really touched upon all sectors with tools like ChatGPT taking the professional world under its belt.

But who knew that the effects are more far-fetched than just that?

Yes, think along the lines of the growing adoption of AI causing a drastic effect on the environment. And that’s the reason why environmentalists are signaling the alarm.

Previous reports were speaking about how AI is literally hovering over the world’s economy. Moreover, it’s getting rid of more jobs at a pace that’s greater than what so many of us had imagined.

It could be our personal lives, the teaching world, and dating too. In the same manner, it’s also dealing with art creation. But what most of us tend to forget is how those huge systems required to power the world of AI are actually paving the way to more climate pollution via huge emissions. Similarly, we’re seeing a huge amount of water being consumed as we speak.

Today, the IT industry which used to be applauded for its green behavior is now giving rise to more waste, using close to 10% of the global electricity sources, and also producing up to 5% of carbon emissions. These stats were recently unveiled by the EU’s parliament.

The figures are not stationary and we’re expecting them to rise by up to 14% in the next two decades or even less.

Meanwhile, research experts at the University of Massachusetts are talking about the huge figures of energy being consumed for AI model training. Just one test of a large language model can produce nearly 626k pound of carbon dioxide. And you can better imagine that as taking 300 round trips from San Francisco to New York. better yet, think of it as five times the complete emissions of the average vehicle during its lifespan.

The world of AI has been previously praised for being the best solution to solve the climate crisis, thanks to the UN Panel at this year’s Climate Change conference which says technology can enhance energy efficiency. This would promote the best adoption of renewable sources but it’s really hard to visualize its true effect on the environment.

One previously published report spoke about ChatGPT consuming close to a water bottle’s worth of fresh water as cold water is necessary to keep those tireless servers working day and night and to ensure the temperature remains at the optimum level.

When experts questioned ChatGPT about energy consumption and carbon footprints it was leaving behind, the firm said it would be just restricted to the energy taken in by PCs and their respective servers.

Meanwhile, the exact figure would be dependent on factors like energy that’s used to fuel the PCs and their respective data centers.

While some major tech firms are still trying to launch greener alternatives to better fight this impact across the environment, critics feel that not enough is being done on this front. Moreover, there just does not seem to be enough kinds of creative marketing strategies in place to really ward off the negative effects of climate change, they did.

Google has spoken about replacing 120% of all water sources it takes in while Microsoft wants to be carbon neutral in the next seven years.

So as you can tell, there’s some effort in place but clearly a lot more is required if we really don’t want to face the dire consequences that climate change is bringing forward to us all.

There is also a greater emphasis on sustainability but the question is how much more is needed to bring positive change.

Read next: A Recent Study Sheds Light on AI Hallucinations and What Society Thinks of Them
by Dr. Hura Anwar via Digital Information World