corporations

Winsage
July 10, 2025
A researcher successfully exploited vulnerabilities in ChatGPT by framing inquiries as a guessing game, leading to the disclosure of sensitive information, including Windows product keys from major corporations like Wells Fargo. The researcher used ChatGPT 4.0 and tricked the AI into bypassing safety protocols designed to protect confidential data. The technique involved embedding sensitive terms within HTML tags and adhering to game rules that prompted the AI to respond with 'yes' or 'no.' Marco Figueroa, a Technical Product Manager, noted that this jailbreaking method could be adapted to circumvent other content filters. He emphasized the need for improved contextual awareness and multi-layered validation systems in AI frameworks to address such vulnerabilities.
AppWizard
July 8, 2025
Jack Dorsey has introduced Bitchat, a messaging app that operates without internet connectivity by using Bluetooth technology for direct messaging. The beta version is available via TestFlight, and a white paper is accessible on GitHub. Bitchat functions as a peer-to-peer platform, leveraging Bluetooth mesh networks to allow users to exchange encrypted messages without requiring internet access, central servers, phone numbers, or email addresses. Messages can travel up to 300 meters by relaying through other devices. All messages are stored on users' devices, disappear by default, and do not pass through central servers, prioritizing user privacy and resistance to censorship. Bitchat allows for group chats called “rooms” and includes a feature for saving messages for offline delivery. Future updates will introduce WiFi Direct capabilities. Following the announcement, all 10,000 beta spots were filled.
AppWizard
July 7, 2025
Steam is a leading online gaming storefront that offers a user-friendly interface, seasonal deals, and the ability to connect with friends while streaming games. The author began using Steam in 2011, purchasing titles like the Stronghold Collection, Terraria, and Skyrim, and has accumulated over 5,000 hours of gameplay across more than 300 games. Initially, the author primarily used Windows for gaming due to compatibility issues with Linux, but the introduction of Proton has allowed access to most of their Steam library on Linux. Valve, the company behind Steam, has developed iconic games like Portal and DOTA 2, supported indie developers, and contributed to gaming technology advancements. The launch of the Steam Deck has further enhanced Linux gaming support.
AppWizard
June 27, 2025
Pasokon Retro highlights the significance of Illusion City, a 1991 RPG developed by Micro Cabin for multiple platforms including PC-98 and MSX Turbo R. The game features a narrative set in a world of shady corporations and demons, blending magic with technology. Players engage in turn-based battles while navigating a well-crafted story that emphasizes visual detail and character expression. The protagonist, Tian Ren, is introduced through a dynamic animation, and the game showcases vibrant environments and intricate animations during combat. Illusion City is noted for its rich storytelling and immersive atmosphere, remaining influential in the realm of retro gaming.
Winsage
June 26, 2025
The Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) will be retired in an upcoming update to Windows 11, to be released later this summer. It will be replaced by a Black Screen of Death, which will display a straightforward black screen with a brief message indicating the need for a restart, along with additional information such as the stop code and the system driver responsible for the crash. This change aims to improve clarity and streamline the troubleshooting process for IT administrators. Additionally, Microsoft will introduce the Quick Machine Recovery feature to assist in restoring machines that fail to boot.
Winsage
June 13, 2025
The Document Foundation (TDF) is advocating for users to transition from Windows 10 to Linux, emphasizing its benefits as a free and open operating system. The deadline for Windows 10 support is October 14, 2025. TDF argues that users are not required to upgrade to Windows 11, which has new hardware requirements that may make many existing PCs obsolete. TDF promotes Linux and LibreOffice as a privacy-centric alternative that allows users to maintain their current hardware while accessing a suite of applications. Other Linux advocates, including KDE, have criticized Microsoft for its subscription model. Transitioning to Linux may be challenging for less tech-savvy users due to the learning curve and potential software compatibility issues. TDF suggests testing Linux on secondary partitions, but acknowledges that this may be difficult for some users.
AppWizard
May 31, 2025
The attempt to send a file from an Android device to a Windows 11 PC highlighted the challenges of using independent applications instead of major tech tools. The user replaced several Google services with alternatives, including Sync for cloud storage, Obsidian for note-taking, ToDoist for task management, Elemental for chat, Kobo for ebooks, VLC for music, Firefox for browsing, Ecosia for search, and Fastmail for email. Fastmail was noted for its efficiency and privacy, while Sync was criticized for its reliability. The user found the experience of using multiple independent apps to be fragmented and cumbersome, leading to higher costs than anticipated. Despite ethical concerns about Big Tech, the integration and convenience they offer were acknowledged as significant advantages. Ultimately, Fastmail and ToDoist were retained, while the user returned to Google for some services, illustrating the difficulties of maintaining a fully independent digital life.
AppWizard
May 28, 2025
Meredith Whittaker, president of Signal, emphasized the need for enhanced personal data protection and criticized major tech companies for their pervasive data collection practices with minimal oversight. She called for structural reforms to regulate user data management and highlighted that a few tech giants dominate data collection without adequate transparency. Whittaker advocated for comprehensive regulations to safeguard user privacy and protect free speech, reflecting growing concerns among consumers and privacy advocates about the balance between technology and individual rights.
Winsage
May 22, 2025
Brian Eno has written an open letter to Microsoft titled “Not in My Name,” urging the company to stop providing artificial intelligence and cloud services to the Israeli military. He expresses concern that Microsoft's technological contributions could enable war crimes, stating that the company has acknowledged its support for Israel’s Ministry of Defense. Eno plans to donate his fee from the Windows 95 project to aid victims of the conflict in Gaza. He references a Microsoft blog post about the company's software and services being used by the Israeli government in ways condemned by legal scholars and human rights organizations. Eno emphasizes that selling advanced AI and cloud services to a government involved in systemic ethnic cleansing constitutes complicity and calls for a reevaluation of corporate ethics. He commends Microsoft employees who have spoken out against the company's actions and invites others to join his call for accountability.
Winsage
May 22, 2025
Renowned musician Brian Eno announced he will donate the earnings from his Windows 95 startup chime to support those affected in Gaza. This decision follows scrutiny of Microsoft’s contracts with the Israeli government amid ongoing humanitarian crises. Eno criticized Microsoft for its involvement in operations contributing to violations of international law and called for the company to suspend services supporting such actions. Microsoft acknowledged its contracts with Israel’s Ministry of Defense but claimed an internal review found no evidence of its technologies targeting civilians in Gaza. Following the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas, significant casualties have been reported in Gaza, with estimates of over 52,000 to as high as 109,000 deaths. Human rights organizations have accused Israel of war crimes. Protests by Microsoft employees have occurred, demanding accountability for the company's actions. Eno emphasized the need for artists and corporations to consider the implications of their contributions.
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