Google launches earthquake alerts for Android in India

Google has introduced its earthquake alert system for Android devices in India. This innovative system utilizes smartphone sensors like accelerators, effectively functioning as miniature seismometers to detect tremors.

Developed in consultation with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the National Seismology Center (NSC), the system aims to provide early earthquake alerts to Android users in potentially affected areas. These alerts will be delivered in local Indian languages supported by Android.

Google issues two types of alerts: "Be Aware" and "Take Action." "Be Aware" alerts are dispatched to users experiencing MMI 3 & 4 shaking during an earthquake of magnitude 4.5 or higher. These alerts appear on the screen without any accompanying sound, even if the phone is in Do Not Disturb or silent mode.

For users facing MMI 5+ shaking during a 4.5 magnitude earthquake, Google sends alerts that bypass the device's notification settings, including Do Not Disturb, and emit a loud sound. Additionally, the alert provides guidance on recommended safety measures, such as taking cover under a table.

Google's system identifies potential earthquakes by monitoring seismic activity through numerous Android phones in a given area. The company asserts that its alerts often precede actual shaking by several seconds.

Introduced in 2020, Google initially launched Android Earthquake Alerts for residents of California. To receive earthquake alerts, users must have a phone with Android 5 or later, as well as Wi-Fi or cellular data connectivity. Location settings must also be enabled on their devices.

Users can activate earthquake alerts by navigating to Settings > Safety & emergency and selecting Earthquake alerts. Alternatively, they can enable this feature through Settings > Location > Advanced > Earthquake alerts.

Furthermore, Google already issues AI-powered flood alerts across all regions in India. The company initiated its flood alert pilot in Patna, the capital of Bihar state, in 2018, and subsequently expanded this service to the entire country in 2020.

AT&T Resets Millions of Customer Passcodes After Data Leak: What You Need to Know

AT&T recently confirmed a significant data breach affecting over 7.6 million current customers and 65 million former customers. The leaked information, which dates back to 2019 or earlier, includes personal details like names, addresses, phone numbers, and social security numbers. Fortunately, financial information and call history were not compromised. In response to the breach, AT&T has reset passcodes for affected customers. Passcodes, usually four-digit numbers, serve as an additional layer of security when accessing accounts. However, security experts warn that the encrypted passcodes leaked alongside customer information could be easily deciphered, posing a risk of unauthorized account access. Affected customers are advised to set up free fraud alerts with major credit bureaus and remain vigilant for any suspicious activity related to their accounts. AT&T is proactively reaching out to impacted customers via email or letter to inform them about the breach and the meas...

Signal Introduces Usernames for Encrypted Messaging: A Secure Way to Connect

Signal, the encrypted messaging service, is launching a new feature in the coming weeks: support for usernames. This beta feature allows users to establish unique usernames, enabling connections without divulging phone numbers. source: Signal Blog To create a username, navigate to your settings and select "Profile." Once you've chosen a unique username, generate a QR code or link to share with others. Recipients can connect by entering your username into the chat bar. Usernames can be changed at any time, though previous usernames may be claimed by others. Signal began testing usernames last fall. Unlike social media platforms, Signal usernames do not serve as logins or public handles. They offer a discreet means of communication without revealing personal phone numbers. While a phone number is required to register for Signal, sharing it is optional. Usernames remain private and do not appear on profiles or in chats unless shared explicitly. As Randall Sarafa, Signal'...

Wordpress.com is selling user data to AI companies

In September 2023, WordPress.com quietly updated a developer page about accessing a "Firehose" of around a million daily WordPress posts, clarifying that these feeds are intended for search engines, AI products, and market intelligence providers. This change, which was not previously noted, has sparked discussion, especially after revelations that Automattic, the owner of WordPress.com and Tumblr, plans to share user data with OpenAI and Midjourney. The recent buzz surrounds questions about which WordPress blogs are included, data retroactivity for opt-outs, and the lack of transparency from Automattic. This company has been selling access to post data for years, including through the Jetpack plugin, but has recently announced exclusions for select AI partners. Automattic's deals with OpenAI and Midjourney are particularly contentious as they aim to enhance generative AI tools. This data sharing, facilitated by partners like SocialGist and DataStreamer, offers insights in...

THEHACKCITY

Search This Blog