The tech world keeps moving fast, with innovations, security breaches, and international initiatives making headlines. This week, we look at the UN stepping in to oversee AI, a malicious VPN spying on users, and new attacks on Google services. Here’s our roundup:
- Creation of a scientific expert group on AI
- Over 100,000 downloads and just as many victims: this fake Chrome VPN takes screenshots of your screen
- A Gemini query uses less energy than watching nine seconds of television
- Here’s Google’s new AI-powered image transformation tool
- Password managers hacked
- An unprecedented attack hits Gmail and Google Cloud—here’s what to do
UN forms expert group to oversee AI
Original title: Création d’un groupe d’experts scientifiques sur l’IA
The United Nations has announced the creation of a committee of experts tasked with studying artificial intelligence and its ethical, economic, and security implications.
This initiative aims to guide governments and businesses toward responsible AI adoption as its use spreads across every sector.
Read more on La Presse – published August 26.
Fake Chrome VPN spies on 100,000+ users
Original title: Plus de 100 000 téléchargements et autant de victimes: ce faux VPN pour Chrome prend des captures de votre écran
A malicious Chrome extension posing as a trustworthy VPN was downloaded over 100,000 times before being detected.
It recorded users’ screens, exposing sensitive information. This attack highlights the need to install only verified extensions and maintain strong cybersecurity practices.
Read more on Clubic – published August 26.
Google Gemini: greener than you think
Original title: Une requête à Gemini serait moins énergivore que regarder neuf secondes de télévision
According to Google, a single Gemini query consumes less energy than watching nine seconds of television. This announcement emphasizes the growing focus on energy efficiency in AI and cloud computing, as the environmental impact of digital technologies remains under scrutiny.
Read more on La Presse – published August 21.
Google’s new AI image transformation tool
Original title: Voici le nouvel outil de Google pour transformer des images par IA
Google has unveiled a Gemini-powered tool for modifying and generating images using artificial intelligence, putting it in direct competition with editing software like Photoshop. This feature unlocks creative possibilities but also raises questions around copyright and deepfake risks.
Read more on Frandroid – published August 21.
Password managers hacked
Original title: Des gestionnaires de mots de passe piratés
Targeted attacks have compromised several password managers, exposing user data. Experts recommend enabling two-factor authentication and updating sensitive passwords immediately.
Read more on La Presse – published August 20.
Major attack hits Gmail and Google Cloud
Original title: Une attaque sans précédent touche Gmail et Google Cloud, voici les mesures à prendre
A large-scale cyberattack recently targeted Gmail and Google Cloud. Google urges businesses and individuals to enable advanced security settings, monitor accounts closely, and apply updates without delay.
Read more on Tom’s Guide – published August 20.
You’re all caught up!
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