Apple introduces protection to prevent thieves from getting your passwords:
iOS 17.3’s beta introduces robust security measures requiring Face ID or Touch ID for sensitive actions. Stolen Device Protection, activated in Settings, adds biometric verification for crucial tasks like accessing passwords and handling payment methods in Safari. This aims to thwart thieves who observe passcodes in public spaces to steal iPhones and access sensitive data. Apple’s goal is to fortify user data against evolving threats, ensuring that even if a device is stolen, access to crucial information is protected.
Bitcoin Dips 7% to Near $40K; Pullback Will Be Short-Lived, Say Experts:
Bitcoin experienced a major drop, marking its sharpest daily decline in nearly four months, causing a significant leverage wipe-out. Within minutes, it plunged from about $43,800 to near $40,500 before bouncing back to around $42,400. However, it later slid to $40,200, down almost 7% in 24 hours, making it the most significant drop since August’s fall below $25,000. Ether, the second-largest cryptocurrency, also fell over 7% to below $2,200.
This flash crash impacted most cryptocurrencies, with XRP, DOGE, LINK, and ADA facing losses of 8% to 12%. However, a few like AVAX, INJ, and OP saw gains. The broader crypto market, tracked by the CoinDesk Market Index (CMI) of nearly 200 digital assets, plummeted over 7%, indicating widespread declines.
E.U. Reaches Deal on World’s First Comprehensive AI Rules:
EU negotiators reached a historic deal on comprehensive AI regulations, overcoming differences on generative AI and facial recognition use in surveillance. Despite initial skepticism from civil groups, the agreement marks the beginning of crucial technical work for the AI Act. The law, expected to pass early next year, imposes hefty fines for violations, with full implementation not anticipated until 2025.
Concerns over generative AI’s rapid advancements led to a scramble for updates in the EU’s rulebook, aiming to set a global example. The law expands its scope to foundation models, key to services like ChatGPT and Google’s Bard chatbot. Negotiators compromised on these models despite resistance, ensuring stricter documentation, compliance with copyright laws, and risk assessment measures.