This edition of Hashtag Trending for Tuesday April 18th talks about malicious software lurking in an innocent-looking app, an emergency update from Google, tech workers getting their old jobs back for half the pay, and the introduction of AI for dogs.
Malicious software was discovered embedded in a fake ChatGPT app in a scheme targeting Facebook users. It is reported that 40,000 Facebook users fell victim to this scheme and were locked out of their accounts and personal memories were lost in some cases. It is suspected that the malware was either a Windows or Chrome extension masquerading as a harmless ChatGPT app that was removed from the Chrome store after thousands had already downloaded it.
Google has released an emergency update to Chrome to address a high severity bug to prevent unauthorized remote access to a user’s accounts and data. Despite being called high severity, Google refrained from providing too many details about the exploit. Google strongly advises users to update their Chrome Browser to the latest version to be safe from any breach.
Seattle Times reported of tech workers being offered positions with the same companies that had previously laid them off with half the pay and no benefits. It appears that in their rush to cut costs some companies may have realized that they had let go of some important assets to their organization. Since most of the tech workers are asked to return as contractors, many of them are declining out of a sense of pride. It is important to remember to be mindful when downloading a new app and to ensure that it is not hiding malicious software.
Google has put its new AI enhanced search feature into high gear with a new project code-named Magi. Speculation of Samsung ditching Google’s Chrome browser on its phones had Google lose 4% of its shares. To make up for the losses, Google is speeding up the development of its AI capabilities. It is reported that Google’s parent company Alphabet lost an estimated $100 billion in share value in February when its new chatbot Bard made a mistake during an event. Google CEO Sundar Pichai appeared on CBS’ 60 minutes to show all the AI projects that the company has taken on, some of which were deemed too intrusive by the interviewer, Scott Pelley.
AI has also gone to the dogs with a new smart AI-enabled device named Companion Dices. The device dispenses treats and monitors your dog’s health, much like a chatbot for your furry friend. The device comes with a price tag of an expensive $49 a month but the ability to train your pet with positive reinforcement techniques and access to all day activities may be worth the cost.
It is clear that the AI market and technology have advanced in ways that are almost beyond comprehension. While artificial intelligence can provide great value, it is important to constantly re-evaluate the possible risks that come with any new technology. We must ensure to keep our data secure and to challenge technology as it evolves.
