Google’s earlier-than-expected Pixel hardware event is just around the corner — it’s scheduled for Tuesday, August 13th. Thanks to the relentless flow of leaks that have emerged over the past few weeks, we have a pretty good idea of what to expect.
Technology
Squid Game returns this December — and will end with another season next year
![Squid Game returns this December — and will end with another season next year Squid Game returns this December — and will end with another season next year](https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Csq_caMmLm6AoVA0as_04161KJw=/0x0:2538x1266/1200x628/filters:focal(1269x633:1270x634)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25554679/videoframe_37213__1_.png)
Squid Game’s second season will debut on December 26th with a newly-announced “final season” to follow sometime in 2025, Netflix said on Wednesday. Netflix also shared a brief trailer to accompany the news.
It’s been nearly three years since the first season of Squid Game premiered on Netflix, and the show has gone on to be a humongous success for the streaming service. Netflix is staying pretty tight-lipped about the plot for what’s to come, but here’s a brief plot synopsis from a Netflix PR email:
Three years after winning Squid Game, Player 456 remains determined to find the people behind the game and put an end to their vicious sport. Using this fortune to fund his search, Gi-hun starts with the most obvious of places: look for the man in a sharp suit playing ddakji in the subway. But when his efforts finally yield results, the path toward taking down the organization proves to be deadlier than he imagined: to end the game, he needs to re-enter it.
“We’ll do our best to make sure we bring you yet another thrill ride,” Squid Game director, writer, and executive producer Hwang Dong-hyuk said in a letter. “I hope you’re excited for what’s to come.”
![](https://newspub.live/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/np-logo.png)
Technology
3 most dangerous tech threats to 2024 elections
![3 most dangerous tech threats to 2024 elections 3 most dangerous tech threats to 2024 elections](https://static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/07/4-The-3-most-dangerous-tech-threats-to-the-2024-electio.jpg)
With elections around the corner, people need to work harder to do their own research into who they want to vote for. That’s because, as we’ve seen in the previous election, technology and social media have made it easier to sway people in a certain direction.
With the rise of artificial intelligence technology in the form of deepfakes, as well as misinformation campaigns that can manipulate peoples’ emotions, don’t let yourself fall for them.
These three categories of cyberthreats should be on the radar ahead of elections. Here’s what you need to know and how to keep yourself safe and thinking for yourself.
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A man putting a “vote” button on his jacket (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
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1. Deepfakes and AI-driven misinformation
Though deepfakes aren’t new, their potential to distort our reality has made it very difficult to distinguish what’s real from what’s fake. Not only has deepfake technology itself gotten better, but the increasing accessibility of these AI technologies has made it easier to create and distribute deepfake videos and audio on a mass scale.
Why is this problematic in terms of elections? Well, these can imitate public figures to spread false information, disrupt voter opinions and create confusion. Imagine seeing a political figure or celebrity you admire talking about a topic that really resonates with you, even though everything you may have already researched about this person contradicts what they are saying. This has the power to convince voters who may have otherwise voted differently or were unsure about who to vote for, meaning that people can be influenced by something that is not even real.
WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?
![tech election threat 2](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/07/1200/675/2-Can-A.I.-help-someone-stage-a-fake-kidnapping-scam-against-your-family-1.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Illustration of artificial intelligence (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
HOW AI COULD MANIPULATE VOTERS AND UNDERMINE ELECTIONS, THREATENING DEMOCRACY
2. Social media manipulation
One of the ways in which deepfakes spread so quickly is because of social media platforms. Social media platforms have always been a major battleground for misinformation campaigns, and it’s getting harder to detect which posts are real and which aren’t. Bots and AI-generated content can quickly disseminate false information before content checkers on these platforms are able to take it down. This makes it harder for users to distinguish between real and fake news, especially when it might be coming from a trusted source within their network.
![men on phone](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/07/1200/675/3-Cyberthreats-manipulating-the-U.S.-election-2024.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Men looking at social media on a phone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
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3. Hacking and cyberattacks
In addition to the above, cyberattacks have gotten much more sophisticated. Politicians, their families and campaign staff are all targets for cyberattacks, just like anyone else. Attackers may not only steal sensitive information to release at strategically damaging times but simply exploit their victims by using deepfakes, AI and social media. Long-term undetected attacks could also compromise the security and integrity of the electoral process both in the short term and in the long term.
HOW TO KNOW IF YOUR COMPUTER GOT HACKED – WHAT TO DO NEXT
![hacker](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/07/1200/675/4-The-3-most-dangerous-tech-threats-to-the-2024-electio.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Illustration of a hacker (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Tips to keep yourself safe from cyberthreats during elections
All in all, voters have a lot to watch out for this voting season, on top of already needing to be vigilant in general. These threats don’t just have the ability to trick you in the context of the election, but in general. Therefore, implementing these best practices for cybersecurity can keep you safe overall.
1. Verify information source
Use trusted news outlets: Rely on reputable news organizations for election information.
Cross-check facts: Validate news stories by checking multiple sources.
Be skeptical of sensational content: If something seems overly provocative or too shocking, it may be designed to manipulate emotions.
Don’t give your information over the phone: Phone spoofing and scam calls are prevalent around election time. For instance, someone could call pretending they are from your local representative’s office (even posing as such on caller ID) when it could just be a scammer. Don’t give them your information.
HOW TO REMOVE YOUR PRIVATE DATA FROM THE INTERNET
![voting stickers](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/07/1200/675/5-The-3-most-dangerous-tech-threats-to-the-2024-electio.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
“I voted” stickers (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
HOLLYWOOD HIJACKED: THE AI TAKEOVER OD TINSELTOWN’S FILMS TO FAKE OUT AMERICANS
2. Protect your online accounts
Enable 2FA: Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your account by asking you to verify your identity in more than one way.
Use strong, unique passwords: Avoid reusing passwords across different sites that are hard to guess. Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords.
Monitor account activity: Regularly check for any unauthorized activity.
HOW TO STOP ANNOYING ROBOCALLS
3. Recognize and report deepfakes
Look for inconsistencies: Pay attention to unnatural facial movements or audio that don’t match the video.
Use verification tools: Tools like reverse image search can help verify the authenticity of images and videos.
Report suspicious content: Alert platform moderators or use reporting features on social media.
4. Secure your devices
Keep software updated: Ensure all devices have the latest security updates.
Avoid public Wi-Fi: Public Wi-Fi networks are convenient but notoriously insecure. Hackers can easily intercept data transmitted over these networks, putting your personal information at risk. Whenever possible, avoid accessing sensitive accounts or transmitting private data while connected to public Wi-Fi.
Use a virtual private network (VPN): If you need to access sensitive information on public networks, we recommend using a VPN. Also, consider using a VPN to protect against being tracked and to identify your potential location on websites that you visit. Many sites can read your IP address and, depending on their privacy settings, may display the city from which you are corresponding. A VPN will disguise your IP address to show an alternate location. For the best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.
Don’t click on any links or attachments you don’t trust: It’s very easy for malware to slip through links that look legitimate, so be sure to verify the source and be wary of unexpected requests for sensitive information. Always approach unsolicited requests for your personal data with caution, even if they appear to come from known contacts or reputable organizations.
The best way to protect yourself from clicking malicious links that install malware that may get access to your private information is to have antivirus protection installed on all your devices. This can also alert you of any phishing emails or ransomware scams. Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.
Kurt’s key takeaways
This election season is going to open up a whole new can of cyberthreat worms, so to speak. If you’re unsure who to vote for, or you’re on the fence about certain issues, it’s important to be aware of the threats that exist, from AI deep fakes to social media’s power. Keep your wits about yourself and always cross-check information as best as you can.
What role do you believe social media platforms should play in safeguarding elections against cyberthreats and misinformation? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.
For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.
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Technology
What to expect from Google’s Pixel 9 event
![What to expect from Google’s Pixel 9 event What to expect from Google’s Pixel 9 event](https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/IXR0YTSLIEKUihhLe-b44JxogRk=/0x0:1538x1124/1200x628/filters:focal(759x457:760x458)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25550927/pixel_fold_9_google.png)
Google has already confirmed that it’s launching the Pixel 9 and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, but the company may have some other surprises in store, including the Buds Pro 2 and maybe even the Pixel Watch 3.
Here’s a roundup of everything we know so far.
Google Pixel 9 lineup adds a smaller Pro option
Alongside the Pixel 9, Google is expected to release the Pixel Pro in two sizes: a larger 6.8-inch model and a smaller 6.3-inch variant. It’ll be the first time the Pro features are available in two different sizes, with the telephoto camera previously being reserved only for the larger phone model.
As shown in the image shared by Google itself (and many, many leaks), the Pixel 9 and 9 Pro will also come with some design changes. Both the Pro and standard models are getting flatter edges and a rounded camera module that protrudes from the back of the device.
A leaked spec sheet from OnLeaks suggests that the Pixel 9 Pro models will come with an upgraded G4 Tensor chip and 16GB of RAM. The base Pixel 9, on the other hand, is expected to have the same chip with a 6.3-inch display and 12GB of RAM.
The cameras on both devices will likely get some upgrades as well, with the leaked spec sheet showing the Pixel 9 with a 10.5MP selfie camera, a 50-megapixel main camera, and a 48MP ultrawide lens. Meanwhile, the leak indicates that the Pixel 9 Pro will have a 42MP selfie camera and three cameras on the rear, including a 50MP main camera, 48MP ultrawide lens, and 48MP telephoto camera.
Another report from Android Authority suggests Google may add an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor to the Pixel 9 lineup, which could hopefully improve some of the issues users have been having with the existing optical under-display sensor. The Pixel 9 is expected to come in obsidian, porcelain, rose, and green, while the Pro model is rumored to come in charcoal, porcelain, rose, and hazel.
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold gets taller and slimmer
Those three phones aren’t the only ones Google is planning to release this summer. It’s also getting ready to release its next-gen foldable, now called the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
When compared to last year’s device, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold appears to be taller and slimmer. That design change is also reflected in the squircle-shaped camera housing on the rear of the device, which now comes with two sets of cameras.
In terms of specs, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is rumored to come with a 6.3-inch cover display and an 8-inch inner screen. That’s larger than the original Pixel Fold’s 5.8-inch outer display and 7.6-inch inner display. The leaked specs sheet indicates that the Pixel 9 Pro Fold will come with the same G4 Tensor chip as the other devices in the lineup, as well as 16GB of RAM.
It may also have a 10MP front-facing camera, with a 48MP main camera, a 10.5MP ultrawide lens, and a 10.8MP telephoto sensor on the back of the phone.
Google brings more AI to the Pixel
With Samsung and now Apple making an effort to bring AI to their phones, it’s no surprise to see Google doing the same. A set of leaked marketing materials from OnLeaks hints, among other features, at a new Pixel Screenshots feature that “helps you save info that you want to remember later — like events, places and more.”
That tracks with a previous leak from Android Police, which suggests that the feature can “save and process helpful details” from your screenshots, letting you search through them. It sounds a bit like Microsoft’s controversial Recall feature but appears to only work on the screenshots you take manually, rather than scanning your entire device. The marketing materials also show an integration with Google’s AI chatbot Gemini, along with Circle to Search.
A leaked Pixel 9 ad posted by Android Headlines (it has since been taken down) gave us a glimpse at a feature called “Add Me,” which appears to use AI to put someone in a photo when they weren’t originally there. It looks like Google is planning to update its Magic Editor tool, too, allowing you to replace the background of an image based on a prompt.
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 brings back the wing tip
It’s already been two years since the launch of the original Pixel Buds Pro 2, and now it looks like Google is planning to give them a refresh. Leaked images from OnLeaks show the Pixel Buds Pro 2 with a small wing tip that sticks out from the side of each bud — sort of like a smaller version of the “stabilizer arc” on the original Pixel Buds.
Other small changes include larger grills that match the colors of the bud, as well as a charging case that appears to come with a small speaker (maybe to emit a noise when using Google’s Find My feature?). The Pixel Buds Pro 2 are expected to come in gray, white, green, and pink.
We may have a good idea of what the Pixel Buds Pro 2 will look like, but we don’t know much about the specs. A regulatory listing spotted earlier this year suggests the case may come with a larger 650mAh battery. Other than that, we can likely expect the Pixel Buds Pro 2 to feature the same active noise cancellation and multipoint features as their predecessor.
A Pixel Watch 3 with two sizes and bigger screens
So far, we’ve only seen renders of the Pixel Watch 3 that show a device with a slightly chunkier design. Unlike its predecessor, the Pixel Watch 3 is expected to come in two sizes: 41mm and 45mm. The 41mm version is rumored to come with a 10 percent larger screen than its similarly sized predecessor, thanks to thinner bezels.
Recent leaks also suggest both Pixel Watch 3 models will get a brighter 2,000-nit display and an ultra wideband chip that could make location tracking more accurate. The 41mm watch is also rumored to come with a slightly bigger 310mAh battery and 20 percent faster charging than the Pixel Watch 2.
Both sizes could offer up to 24 hours of battery life with always-on display enabled or up to 36 hours with a new Battery Saver mode, according to leaked marketing materials shared by Android Headlines. The materials also hint at support for offline Google Maps, new camera controls when connecting to a Pixel phone, and the ability to view your Nest Cam and Nest Doorbell’s live feeds from your watch.
Unfortunately, you may not be able to use your current Pixel Watch 2 bands with the larger 45mm device. A report suggests that the 45mm version has an “altered” band connection that could make it incompatible with smaller bands. The 45mm Pixel Watch 3 may not get as many band options as the 41mm version, either, according to Android Headlines.
Anything else?
It may seem like we already know all we know about Google’s upcoming hardware event, but the company may still surprise us. For one, there’s a possibility that we may get a look at the new “Google TV Streamer,” which 9to5Google published leaked images of in July. It looks way different than the Chromecast, but we still don’t have any details on specs.
That’s all we know for now, but there’s still time between now and Google’s August 13th event, which means there’s still a chance for more leaks.
Technology
Fox News AI Newsletter: China forces AI to toe party line
![Fox News AI Newsletter: China forces AI to toe party line Fox News AI Newsletter: China forces AI to toe party line](https://static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2023/03/GettyImages-1247657649-e1678191381255.jpg)
Welcome to Fox News’ Artificial Intelligence newsletter with the latest AI technology advancements.
IN TODAY’S NEWSLETTER:
– Mastering ‘the art of brainwashing,’ China intensifies AI censorship
– FCC advances rule requiring disclosure of AI use in political ads
– 3 most dangerous tech threats to 2024 elections
A man walks past a photo of Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Museum of the Communist Party of China in Beijing on March 3, 2023, ahead of the opening of the annual session of the National Peoples Congress on March 5. (GREG BAKER/AFP via Getty Images)
BRAINWASHED: China has once again extended its policy of censorship and surveillance as it looks to keep artificial intelligence models in check even as it races to advance the ever-expanding technology.
‘TIDE OF DISINFORMATION’: The Federal Communications Commission announced a new proposed regulation that would require the use of artificial intelligence in broadcast TV and radio ads to be disclosed to the audience through an on-air announcement.
![tech election threat 1](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/07/1200/675/1-Cyberthreats-manipulating-the-U.S.-election-2024.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
A man putting a “vote” button on his jacket (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
THREATENED: With the rise of artificial intelligence technology in the form of deepfakes, as well as misinformation campaigns that can manipulate peoples’ emotions, don’t let yourself fall for them. These three categories of cyberthreats should be on the radar ahead of elections. Here’s what you need to know and how to keep yourself safe and thinking for yourself.
AI WAITING GAME: Apple’s upcoming release of new artificial intelligence tools is now expected to occur later than originally expected, coming after the initial launch of the new iOS 18 software for iPhone and iPads, according to a report.
![iPhone Apple](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2023/03/1200/675/3-iphone.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Person holds an iPhone (Fox News Digital)
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