misinformation Archives

AppWizard

May 24, 2025

Surprising: Telegram slams Vietnam’s decision to block messaging app

Vietnam's technology ministry has mandated telecom providers to restrict access to Telegram due to concerns about the app's failure to combat criminal activities and disseminate illegal content. A government document from May 21 instructed telecom companies to limit access, citing that 68 percent of the 9,600 Telegram channels and groups in Vietnam were linked to illegal activities such as fraud, drug trafficking, and potential terrorism. The ministry criticized Telegram for not cooperating with investigations, particularly regarding user data requests. Despite the directive, Telegram remained accessible in Vietnam as of the latest report. The situation is part of Vietnam's broader digital crackdown, which has included pressure on other platforms to remove content deemed harmful by the government. Telegram has previously faced scrutiny regarding its security and privacy practices.

BetaBeacon

May 9, 2025

An exciting new Switch emulator launches tomorrow — Here’s how to get it

A new Switch emulator called Eden is set to launch in pre-alpha tomorrow. It promises a fresh take on playing Switch games on Android, with a revamped user interface and improved performance. The developers have a strong pedigree and are eager to share their work with the community. Lead developer Camille LaVey has been transparent about the challenges faced during development. The official pre-alpha launch of Eden is scheduled for May 10th at midday.

AppWizard

March 23, 2025

Meta Continues to Integrate AI Bot Profiles into its Apps

Meta is integrating AI-powered profiles into its social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, and WhatsApp. Messenger has launched an “AI Studio” for users to create and manage their own AI personas for conversations. WhatsApp is also introducing an AI Studio for user interaction with AI bots. Instagram is enhancing this trend with AI options in its “Create” tools, allowing real-time character creation and customization. Meta plans to introduce millions of AI profiles that mimic real users, complete with bios and the ability to post and comment, which raises concerns about user awareness and potential psychological impacts. The integration of AI bots may influence engagement metrics and app usage while also raising ethical questions about social interaction. There are concerns about the mental health implications of social media use, especially in light of rising AI-generated misinformation. The competitive pressure for innovation in AI development is influencing the approach taken by social media companies.

AppWizard

March 11, 2025

I can’t stop thinking about this enigmatic new game about AI

Centum is a point-and-click adventure game available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC, and Nintendo Switch. Players assume the role of a prisoner seeking freedom within a distorted digital landscape created by a malfunctioning AI. The game features initial tasks that lead to a complex narrative filled with eccentric characters and philosophical riddles. Central themes include the quest for identity and the exploration of lost memories. The gameplay challenges players to discern truth from illusion in a chaotic world, ultimately reflecting the complexities of the digital age.

AppWizard

February 12, 2025

Subnautica 2 dev sounds foghorn about ‘fraudulent links’ being sent to community members: ‘We will never contact anyone by Steam DM for any potential playtests’

Unknown Worlds issued a warning about fraudulent links claiming to offer access to a playtest of Subnautica 2, stating they will never contact anyone via Steam DM for playtests. Legitimate outreach will only occur through email from an Unknown Worlds address. Players were advised to change their passwords and enable two-factor authentication if they clicked on fraudulent links. Similar scams have targeted other games, such as Mafia: The Old Country. The sequel to Subnautica is set to enter early access later this year, but no specific release date has been announced.

AppWizard

February 12, 2025

Microsoft Launches The Cybersafe AI: Dig Deeper Minecraft Education DLC

A free DLC for Minecraft Education is now available through the Microsoft Store, allowing players to assume the role of a student organizing a fundraiser that highlights the application of AI in 3D printing. The experience encourages players to engage in fact-checking and develop critical thinking skills. This initiative is part of Microsoft's ongoing efforts to promote computer literacy and AI skills among young gamers.

AppWizard

February 8, 2025

The PlayStation Network has been taken completely offline across all platforms for more than half a day, preventing online gaming, store purchases, game updates, and more

Access to the PlayStation Network (PSN) is being restored for some PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 users after an outage that began on February 8, 2025, at 1 AM CET. The outage affected PSN logins and services across all platforms, including PS5, PS4, PS3, PS Vita, and PC, and lasted over 16 hours. Sony acknowledged the issue via a tweet but has not clarified the cause of the disruption. Users have reported difficulties with offline gaming due to dependencies on PSN, such as digital rights management (DRM) checks and day-one updates. The situation has led to increased panic and confusion among customers, reminiscent of the 2011 PSN hack and outage.

AppWizard

December 24, 2024

Controversial messaging app Telegram is profitable, says its founder. Here’s how it makes money.

Encrypted messaging service Telegram has achieved profitability after 11 years of operation, with revenue surpassing billion in 2024 and cash reserves of 0 million. CEO Pavel Durov attributed this success to advertising and premium subscriptions. The company introduced initiatives like a revenue-sharing model for content creators and a premium subscription tier priced at .99 per month. Telegram has reduced its billion debt and noted a significant turnaround from the previous year, when it reported a loss of million on revenues of million. Despite its financial success, the platform faces global scrutiny over misinformation and limited content moderation, with bans in several countries and a history of being prohibited in Russia from 2018 to 2020.

Tech Optimizer

December 11, 2024

Top 5 Reasons Cybersecurity Is a Huge Problem in Minnesota

Minnesota ranks 39th in the number of cybercrime victims per 100,000 residents and 8th in average loss per victim, indicating significant financial damage from cyber incidents. Many residents lack sufficient insurance for cyber-related losses, leaving them to bear recovery costs. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable to phishing and ransomware attacks, often unprepared for recovery. There is a lack of diversity in cybersecurity tools, with many relying solely on antivirus software and free solutions that offer inadequate protection. Awareness of essential tools like VPNs and anti-ransomware software is low. Limited public education on online safety leaves individuals and employees of small businesses susceptible to scams. The healthcare sector is frequently targeted by ransomware attacks, and local industries face unique cyber challenges due to outdated systems. Reliance on outdated technology increases vulnerabilities, as these systems often lack necessary security features and are incompatible with modern cybersecurity tools.

AppWizard

December 5, 2024

Google App ‘AI Mode’ For Android Lets Users ‘Talk’ Directly to Search, Multimodal Capabilities Available

Google is developing an 'AI Mode' for its Search app on Android, allowing users to interact in a conversational manner. This feature, discovered in an APK teardown, will enable voice inputs and the submission of photos and videos, creating a more intuitive search experience. The AI Mode will be accessible through a dedicated tab represented by a 'wink' icon in the app. This development follows Google's earlier integration of generative AI into Search, including the Search Generative Experience and AI Overviews, which have been refined based on user feedback.