Kevin Mitnick: The Catalyst of the Information Security Industry

Kevin David Mitnick, born on August 6, 1963, was a renowned American computer security consultant, author, and convicted hacker. His life and career have been a testament to the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, and his contributions have left an indelible mark on the industry. Mitnick’s journey into the world of hacking began early. His curiosity and knack for understanding complex systems led him to experiment with hacking, which eventually resulted in his conviction. However, this period of his life, while tumultuous, was instrumental in shaping his future career. ...

July 20, 2023 · 4 min

The Cooper Davis Act: A Threat to Privacy and a Potential Boon for Criminals

The United States Senate recently advanced a bill that has sparked significant concern among privacy advocates and tech companies. The Cooper Davis Act, named after a Kansas teenager who tragically overdosed after purchasing a fentanyl-laced pill on Snapchat, is aimed at combating drug activity on online platforms. However, the implications of this bill for end-to-end encryption and personal privacy are alarming, and it may inadvertently make it harder to track criminal activity. ...

July 19, 2023 · 3 min

The Privacy Paradox: Frances New Surveillance Bill and Its Implications

In a world where technology is increasingly intertwined with daily life, the balance between security and privacy is a delicate one. Recently, this balance was tipped in France with the passing of a new surveillance bill that has sent ripples of concern across the globe. The bill, officially passed into law by the French government, grants unprecedented powers to law enforcement agencies. It allows them to remotely activate cameras, microphones, and even GPS tracking on the phones of individuals they deem to be suspects. This means that without your knowledge or consent, your phone could potentially be turned into a surveillance device, providing real-time audio, visual, and location data to the authorities. ...

July 6, 2023 · 11 min

India: The First Democracy to Ban Encrypted Messaging Apps on a Massive Scale

In an unprecedented move, India has become the first democratic nation to ban encrypted messaging apps on a large scale. This decision, made just days before Press Freedom Day, has sparked a global debate about privacy, security, and the role of government in regulating digital communication. The Indian government’s decision to ban encrypted messaging apps is groundbreaking. The ban affects 14 mobile applications that provided end-to-end encrypted (E2EE) messaging services or enabled peer-to-peer (P2P) messaging, including Wickrme, Mediafire, Briar, BChat, Nandbox, Conion, IMO, Element, Second line, Zangi, Threema, Crypviser, Enigma, and Safeswiss. The government cites national security concerns as the primary reason for the ban, arguing that these platforms can be used for illicit activities, including terrorism, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir. ...

June 16, 2023 · 2 min

Google vs. the EU: Unpacking the Antitrust Charges

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital technology and online services, the year 2023 has seen a significant development in the ongoing saga between Google and the European Union (EU). The European Commission, the executive branch of the EU responsible for proposing legislation and implementing decisions, has taken a preliminary stance that Google has breached EU antitrust rules by distorting competition. The EU’s antitrust chief, Margrethe Vestager, has suggested that Google may have to divest part of its adtech business. This is because a behavioural remedy, which would require Google to change its business practices, is unlikely to be sufficient to restore competition and fairness in the market. ...

June 15, 2023 · 3 min