This week in security and privacy news brought several significant events. Hackers published data allegedly stolen from Madison Square Garden, gay bars in San Francisco installed facial recognition scanners at entrances, France announced it will drop Palantir for domestic software, and Apple plans to tweak its private email tool. Here is a summary of the top stories.
Hackers Leak Stolen Madison Square Garden Data
The hacking and extortion group ShinyHunters has published data it claims was stolen from Madison Square Garden. According to 404 Media, the archive contains 45 GB of files with millions of records, including potential personal information of customers and references to Knicks players and coaches. The leak came shortly after the Knicks won their first NBA championship since 1973. WIRED has recently reported on MSG's extensive use of surveillance technologies, including facial recognition systems. A federal class action lawsuit has been filed over the alleged breach. Data security at sports venues is becoming an increasingly critical issue.
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San Francisco Gay Bars Use Face Scanners on Entry
At least three bars in San Francisco's Castro district, a well-known LGBTQ neighborhood, have deployed facial scanners at their entrances to collect detailed customer information. The bars use technology from Patronscan, an ID verification company, to capture facial images, names, and genders. Staff can log negative behaviors such as fights or theft, and facial recognition then identifies the person on future visits. The recorded information can be shared among other firms using the same technology, creating a widespread surveillance network. The use of facial recognition in public spaces raises serious privacy concerns.
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France to Drop Palantir for French Alternative
France's domestic spy agency, the Direction générale de la Sécurité intérieure (DGSI), announced it will stop using Palantir's data and AI tools in the coming years, replacing them with software from French company ChapsVision. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu stated: "We must use our own AI models. We cannot rely on tools developed by foreign powers. France must have its own tools." France is not the first European intelligence agency to snub Palantir for ChapsVision; last month, Germany's BfV made a similar move. European technological independence is a growing trend.
Apple Plans to Change Private Email Tool
Apple is set to modify its 'Hide My Email' feature, which allows users to generate random email addresses for privacy. Currently, all addresses use the @icloud.com domain. According to TechCrunch, Apple will switch to the domain @private.icloud.com. This subtle change could make it easier for companies to detect the use of the privacy-preserving service and demand sign-ups with an alternative email. Privacy in digital communications remains a priority but also a challenge.
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For further reading, check out the article on Siri AI and data ownership and the guide on Web Accessibility WCAG. This week's news highlights the complex landscape of security and privacy.
