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Massive Data Breach Affecting 81.5 Crore Indians Contained Only 10% Aadhaar Information

November 1, 2023

Highlights

Resecurity exposes data breach impacting over 81.5 crore Indian citizens.
Data sold by pwn0001 mainly includes names, phone numbers, and addresses.
Only 10 percent of the data set contains Aadhaar information.
Breach occurs as India passes Digital Personal Data Protection Act, yet to be implemented.

In a significant development, the American cybersecurity agency Resecurity recently exposed a massive data breach affecting over 81.5 crore Indian citizens.

The data, being sold on the dark web by an individual using the alias ‘pwn0001,’ reportedly contains Aadhaar and Passport details.

However, the narrative takes a twist as pwn0001 reveals that only 10% of the data set has Aadhaar details, with only a few thousand records including passport information.

The Scale of the Breach

The data set in question was purchased from a now-defunct dark web forum last year for a sum of $50,000 (Rs 41.64 lakh), according to a report by MoneyControl.

The data set includes names, phone numbers, passport numbers, Aadhar numbers, and several other personal details.

While the database was advertised to contain Aadhaar and Passport details primarily, the actual composition tells a different story.

Digital Personal Data Protection Act

Limited Aadhaar Exposure

pwn0001, the individual selling this data, has stated that the database isn’t as lucrative as it was originally marketed.

Only a fraction—10%—contains Aadhaar details. Even within that, only a few thousand records boast of having passport details.

Resecurity’s HUNTER team has corroborated this, claiming to have verified some Aadhaar Card IDs from the sample data provided.

The data breach comes at a time when India has passed the Digital Personal Data Protection Act.

This law posits that platforms leaking personal data can face fines up to Rs 250 crore.

However, the law hasn’t been implemented yet, creating a window of vulnerability.

Another breach reported by Resecurity in August further indicates that data security remains a concern, notwithstanding the yet-to-be-enforced laws.

FAQs

Who exposed the data breach?

Resecurity, an American cybersecurity agency, was the first to report the massive data breach involving Indian citizens.

What types of data are included in the breach?

The data includes names, phone numbers, addresses, and in a limited number of cases, Aadhaar and Passport details.

How much of the breached data contains Aadhaar details?

Only 10% of the entire data set includes Aadhaar details, according to the individual selling the data under the alias pwn0001.

Is India’s Digital Personal Data Protection Act in force?

Though India has passed the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, it has not yet been implemented, leaving a gap in data protection measures.

Also Read: How to Download Aadhaar, PAN card on Your WhatsApp

Also Read: PAN Card Online Apply: How to Apply for PAN Card Online, Check Status, and Download e-PAN?

Samsung Launches Auto Blocker for Enhanced Security on Galaxy Devices with One UI 6

Team My Mobile

November 1, 2023

Highlights

Samsung rolls out Auto Blocker on Galaxy devices running One UI 6.
Auto Blocker feature offers prevention of unauthorized app sideloading.
Additional controls include app security checks and USB software installation prevention.
Message Guard updated to mitigate Zero Click attacks across multiple messaging apps.

Samsung has announced Auto Blocker, a new addition to its security features available on Galaxy devices running the One UI 6 interface.

This new package aims to give users more control over their device’s security measures.

Auto Blocker happens to be an opt-in feature that comes with various capabilities, including preventing sideloading and offering security checks for apps.

User-Centric Design Philosophy

Dr. Seungwon Shin, EVP & Head of Security Team at Samsung Electronics, stated that the company aims to put the control back in the hands of users.

According to Dr. Shin, Samsung is focused on allowing users to choose the level of security that best meets their needs rather than making that decision for them.

Features of Auto Blocker

Prevention of App Sideloads: The feature prevents the installation of apps from unauthorized sources, an activity commonly known as sideloading.
However, for users who intentionally sideload apps for enhanced customization, this feature is turned off by default.
App Security Checks: Auto Blocker also provides the ability to turn on security checks for apps, aimed at detecting potential malware.
USB Security: It prevents harmful software installations that could happen through a USB cable—important for scenarios where someone could have physical access to the device.
Message Guard Update: An update has been provided to the existing Message Guard feature, designed to mitigate Zero Click attacks, particularly those that come from image messages in third-party apps.

Security in Open Ecosystems

Auto Blocker supports the idea of an open ecosystem by providing an opt-in package of additional security measures.

It does not interfere with users who prefer to sideload apps but offers an extra layer of security to those who wish to avoid potential threats like voice phishing attacks or social engineering tactics.

FAQs

What is Samsung’s Auto Blocker?

Samsung’s Auto Blocker is a new opt-in security feature available on Galaxy devices that run on the One UI 6 interface. It provides users with several security controls, including preventing unauthorized app installations.

How does Auto Blocker improve device security?

Auto Blocker enhances device security by providing users with the option to enable app security checks, prevent unauthorized app installations, and secure software installations through USB.

Is Auto Blocker turned on by default?

No, Auto Blocker is an opt-in feature, which means it is turned off by default. Users have the choice to activate it based on their specific security needs.

What is the Message Guard feature in Auto Blocker?

Message Guard is an existing feature that has been updated in Auto Blocker. It helps protect users from Zero Click attacks, specifically those involving malicious image messages in both Samsung and third-party messaging apps.

Also Read: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Camera Comes with Zoom Tech Feature

Also Read: Samsung Galaxy S23 FE 5G launch timeline tipped, said to come with Exynos 2200 & Triple-Camera Setup

YouTube Is Escalating Its Crackdown on Ad Blockers

Team My Mobile

November 1, 2023

YouTube completely banned Adblockers worldwide.

Highlights

YouTube amplifies global efforts to curb the use of ad blockers.
Users given a choice: disable ad blockers or opt for YouTube Premium.
The move follows a third straight quarterly decline in YouTube’s ad revenue.
Restrictions kick in after just three videos for ad-block users.

The relationship between YouTube and advertisements is as old as the platform itself.

Since 2007, ads have served as a revenue model that not only powers the platform but also financially supports content creators.

However, users blocking out ads with the help of ad-blockers has been prevalent for a long time.

That looks to be changing in earnest.

Recent developments from the world’s biggest video-sharing platform indicate a more stringent approach against users employing ad blockers, marking a significant change in YouTube’s revenue strategy.

Early Experiments and the Problem at Hand

Initially, in June this year, YouTube started what it termed as a “small experiment.”
The focus was to encourage a limited group of users employing ad blockers to deactivate them.

Fast forward a few months, and this “experiment” has evolved into a concerted global effort.

This move coincides with the fact that in May, Reddit users noticed YouTube tinkering with the idea of making it mandatory for users to disable ad blockers if they wish to consume content.

This period also saw the company facing a third consecutive quarterly decline in ad revenue, as reported by The Wall Street Journal.

Current Measures

In its latest push, YouTube has become far more aggressive.
According to statements provided to The Verge by a company spokesperson, YouTube has started to disable video browsing for users who have an active ad blocker.

Initially, this restriction kicks in after the user has viewed just three videos.
It leaves the user with two choices: disable their ad blocker or opt for a YouTube Premium subscription.

Context and Implications

YouTube’s ad saturation has not just been stable; it has steadily increased.

Observers have noted more ad placements on both its mobile and desktop platforms, including the introduction of non-skippable 30-second ads on its TV app.

This ad blockade can be seen as a method to nudge users towards its Premium service while increasing ad-viewability statistics, potentially attracting more advertisers in the process.

FAQs

What is YouTube’s new policy on ad blockers?

YouTube is intensifying its global efforts to disable video browsing for users with active ad blockers. After watching three videos, users have to either disable their ad blocker or subscribe to YouTube Premium to continue browsing.

Why is YouTube cracking down on ad blockers now?

This new policy follows a series of experiments and comes at a time when YouTube has experienced a third straight quarterly drop in ad revenue. The company aims to push more users to its Premium service while maximizing ad-viewability.

How will this affect the user experience on YouTube?

The user experience is likely to change significantly. Those who rely on ad blockers will now be interrupted and prompted to make a choice, which could result in a less streamlined experience for those users.

Are there any alternatives to disabling ad blockers on YouTube?

The main alternative is to subscribe to YouTube Premium, which offers an ad-free viewing experience along with other perks like offline viewing and access to YouTube Originals.

Also Read: YouTube will not Show Videos on the users Homepage if the Watch History is Off

Also Read: ‘Like a Video and Make Money’ scam: All about the cyber fraud on Whatsapp; Received WhatsApp message asking you to like YouTube videos for Rs 150? It’s a scam

iQOO 12 Confirmed to Launch in India on December 12: Expected Specs, Features, and More

Team My Mobile

November 1, 2023

Highlights

iQOO 12 confirmed to launch in India on December 12, following its China debut on November 7.
The device will sport a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset and feature a curved design.
Anticipated to include a triple rear camera system with 100x digital and 3x optical zoom.
Leaks suggest an AMOLED display with 2K resolution and 144Hz refresh rate.

The anticipation surrounding the iQOO 12 smartphone is about to reach a climax, with the official India launch date now confirmed for December 12.

The news comes shortly after iQOO disclosed that the phone would make its debut in China on November 7, promising to unveil all of its specs and features before the India unveiling.

Expected Pricing in India

While iQOO has been known for offering high-performing phones at affordable prices, the iQOO 12 may break this trend.

Considering the device’s advanced features, it remains to be seen if iQOO maintains the competitive pricing strategy that it has followed in the past.

iQOO 12 Confirmed to Launch in India on December 12

iQOO 12: Expected Features

In terms of design, the handset will feature curved edges and a slim profile for better grip, much like what we’ve seen with models such as the Oppo Reno 10 Pro+.

Additionally, it will have a glass back panel in white and boast a square-shaped rear camera module as opposed to the rectangle one in previous models.

The device is confirmed to include a triple camera system on the back, with capabilities like 100x digital zoom.

Although the telephoto lens is only expected to support 3x optical zoom, according to leaks.

Based on leaked information, the iQOO 12 may come with a 2K AMOLED display with a fast 144Hz refresh rate.

It’s also rumored to include an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint scanner, capable of recognizing wet or moist fingers.

Additional leaks hint at a 5,000mAh battery and a 200W fast charging support.

IQOO 12 5G SPECIFICATIONS

Key Specs

RAM	12 GB
Processor	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
Rear Camera	64 MP + 16 MP + 12 MP
Front Camera	24 MP
Battery	5000 mAh
Display	6.79 inches (17.25 cm)

General

Launch Date	December 11, 2023 (Unofficial)
Operating System	Android v13

Performance

Chipset	Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
CPU	Octa core (3.36 GHz, Single core, Cortex X3 + 2.8 GHz, Quad core, Cortex A715 + 2 GHz, Tri core, Cortex A510)
Architecture	64 bit
Fabrication	4 nm
Graphics	Adreno 740
RAM	12 GB

Display

Display Type	AMOLED
Screen Size	6.79 inches (17.25 cm)
Resolution	1080 x 2400 pixels
Pixel Density	388 ppi
Bezel-less display	Yes with punch-hole display
Touch Screen	Yes, Capacitive Touchscreen, Multi-touch

Camera

MAIN CAMERA
Camera Setup	Triple
Resolution	64 MP, Primary Camera 16 MP 12 MP
Autofocus	Yes, Phase Detection autofocus
Flash	Yes, LED Flash
Image Resolution	9000 x 7000 Pixels
Settings	Exposure compensation, ISO control
Shooting Modes	Continuous Shooting High Dynamic Range mode (HDR)
Camera Features	Digital Zoom Auto Flash Face detection Touch to focus
Video Recording	1920×1080 @ 30 fps
FRONT CAMERA
Camera Setup	Single
Resolution	24 MP, Primary Camera
Video Recording	1920×1080 @ 30 fps

Battery

Capacity	5000 mAh
Type	Li-Polymer
Removable	No
Quick Charging	Yes, Fast, 200W
USB Type-C	Yes

Storage

Internal Memory	256 GB
Expandable Memory	No

Network & Connectivity

SIM Slot(s)	Dual SIM, GSM+GSM
SIM Size	SIM1: Nano, SIM2: Nano
Network Support	5G Not Supported in India, 4G Supported in India, 3G, 2G
VoLTE	Yes
SIM 1	4G Bands: TD-LTE 2300(band 40) FD-LTE 1800(band 3) 3G Bands: UMTS 1900 / 2100 / 850 / 900 MHz 2G Bands: GSM 1800 / 1900 / 850 / 900 MHz GPRS: Available EDGE: Available
SIM 2	4G Bands: TD-LTE 2300(band 40) FD-LTE 1800(band 3) 3G Bands: UMTS 1900 / 2100 / 850 / 900 MHz 2G Bands: GSM 1800 / 1900 / 850 / 900 MHz GPRS: Available EDGE: Available
Wi-Fi	Yes, Wi-Fi 4 (802.11 b/g/n)
Wi-Fi Features	Mobile Hotspot
Bluetooth	Yes, v5.3
GPS	Yes with A-GPS, Glonass
NFC	Yes
USB Connectivity	Mass storage device, USB charging

Multimedia

Loudspeaker	Yes
Audio Jack	USB Type-C

Sensors

Fingerprint Sensor	Yes
Fingerprint Sensor Position	On-screen
Fingerprint Sensor Type	Optical
Other Sensors	Light sensor, Proximity sensor, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope

FAQs

What is the official launch date for iQOO 12 in India?

The iQOO 12 is officially set to launch in India on December 12, following its debut in China on November 7.

What chipset will power the iQOO 12?

The device is confirmed to be equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, promising high performance.

What can we expect from the camera system of the iQOO 12?

The iQOO 12 is slated to feature a triple rear camera system with 100x digital zoom. Leaks also suggest a telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom.

Are there any details on the display and other features?

Based on leaks, the iQOO 12 is expected to have a 2K AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate. Rumors also hint at an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint scanner.

Also Read: iQOO 12 Camera To Reportedly Harbour a 64MP Sensor, Accompanied by 50MP Ultra-Wide Shooter

Also Read: Vivo X100 Pro, X100 Pro+ Launch Timeline, fast charging specs tipped; confirms 50W Wireless Charging, IP68 Rating and More Features

Android 13 Is Currently the Most Popular Android Version in Latest Distribution Data

Team My Mobile

November 1, 2023

Highlights

Android 13 emerges as most widely used, operating on 22.4% of Android devices.
Older Android 11 and Android 10 versions still hold substantial market shares.
Android 9 continues to linger despite reaching end-of-life status.
Android 14 is yet to make its mark in the distribution statistics.

In a positive turn of events for Google’s Android platform, the latest version, Android 13, has risen to prominence as the most widely used OS variant, according to updated distribution statistics.

Data revealed in Android Studio, as reported by GizChina and Mishaal Rahman, shows that as of October 1, 2023, Android 13 is operating on 22.4 percent of Android devices.

This signifies a significant uptick of 7.4 percent in just four months since the previous update in May 2023, indicating an impressive adoption rate for an OS that has only been out for a little over a year.

However, while Android 13 takes the lead, it’s worth noting that Android 11 still commands a noteworthy share, holding onto 21.6 percent, albeit down from 23.1 percent in May.

It seems rather telling that a version released back in 2020 remains so prevalent among users.

Furthermore, Android 10 is not far behind, securing its place as the third most popular version, despite experiencing a 1.7 percent decline.
It currently runs on 16.1 percent of all devices.

Most Popular Android Version in Latest Distribution Data

Amid these numbers, there is cause for concern.
Android 12 saw a marginal decrease from 16.3% to 15.8%, ranking it as the fourth most popular OS version.

Even more alarming is the presence of Android 9 in the distribution charts, accounting for 10.5 percent of Android devices.

Given that these devices have hit their end-of-life stage, they are unlikely to receive any further updates.

This trend highlights the lingering issue of fragmentation that Android faces.

With Android 14 having just been launched at the beginning of October, its absence from the distribution chart is understandable, as Google collected the data just days before its stable build was released.

However, only a handful of devices from Samsung and Xiaomi have so far been updated to this new version.

The Android ecosystem appears to be moving in a positive direction, with manufacturers promising longer software support to reduce fragmentation.

Yet, the real challenge lies in the speed of OS rollouts, which needs to improve substantially for the landscape to become more unified.

FAQs

What is the current most popular version of Android?

Android 13 is the most popular version according to the latest data from Android Studio, accounting for 22.4% of the market share.

Are older Android versions still prevalent?

Yes, Android 11 and Android 10 still maintain significant market shares, with 21.6% and 16.1% respectively, highlighting the fragmentation issue in the Android ecosystem.

Why is Android 9 still showing up in the distribution charts?

Android 9 accounts for 10.5% of the Android market. These devices have reached end-of-life and are not expected to receive further updates, which is a concern for the Android ecosystem.

Is Android 14 included in the latest distribution data?

No, Android 14 was not included since the stable build was released after the data collection period. However, only select Samsung and Xiaomi phones have received this update so far.

Also Read: Xiaomi to launch Android 13-based MIUI 14 with India-exclusive features to release on February 27th

Also Read: Xiaomi Smartphones’ Battery Customization Via MIUI

Extra Button on iPhone 16 Could Reportedly Mean Relocating Antenna

Team My Mobile

November 1, 2023

Highlights

New Action Button rumoured for iPhone 16 with solid-state technology
Potential relocation of mmWave antenna to accommodate extra button
Volume and power buttons to remain traditional, physical keys
Questions raised about potential impact on 5G connectivity

Rumours are swirling about the highly anticipated iPhone 16 models, with new information suggesting that the devices may come with an additional button, significantly impacting the phone’s internal layout.

Instant Digital, a known Weibo leaker with a proven track record for Apple-related leaks, recently claimed that Apple is actively considering the inclusion of an extra button on its iPhone 16 models.

The purported “Action Button“ will likely leverage solid-state technology, a departure from the conventional physical buttons on previous iPhone models.

Shifting of mmWave Antenna

To make room for this new button, Apple is contemplating a change in the placement of the mmWave antenna.

The antenna, responsible for enabling high-band 5G connectivity, is planned to be shifted from its typical right-side location to the left of the device.

It’s worth mentioning that Apple had once moved antennas near the steel band wrapping the iPhone 4, which led to some connectivity issues.

However, with mmWave adoption still in its nascent stage, the risk associated with this movement may be minimal.

Solid-State Action Button

According to Instant Digital, the new Action Button will employ solid-state technology, which means it will sit flush with the device.

Users won’t have to press the button physically; instead, it will activate predefined actions upon touch.

It should be noted that Apple had initially planned solid-state buttons for the iPhone 15 Pro models but did not go through with it.

While there’s buzz about this new Action Button, it appears the other standard buttons on the iPhone—namely the volume and power keys—will remain unchanged.

Unlike the Action Button, these will continue to be physical, protruding buttons that require pressing to function.

Solid-State Action Button — iPhone 16 Models will Reportedly Feature a New Capacitive “Capture Button”

What Does This Mean for Connectivity?

When discussing the relocation of mmWave antennas, it’s worth considering that high-band 5G signals are already relatively scarce.

Some may remember the antenna issues with iPhone 4 when Apple changed its placement.

Yet, given the sparse availability of mmWave signals, the real-world implications of this shift may be limited.

FAQs

What is the new Action Button on iPhone 16?

The rumoured Action Button on iPhone 16 is expected to be a solid-state button that will sit flush with the device, allowing predefined actions upon touch.

Why is the mmWave antenna being moved?

To accommodate the new Action Button, Apple may relocate the mmWave antenna from its usual right-side position to the left of the device.

Will other buttons like volume and power keys change?

No, the volume and power buttons are expected to remain as traditional physical buttons that need to be pressed to function.

How could this affect 5G connectivity?

The movement of the mmWave antenna may raise concerns due to its role in high-band 5G connectivity. However, mmWave adoption is still in its early stages, so the actual impact might be minimal.

Also Read: Apple iPhone 15 & iPhone 15 Plus to be manufactured (made) in India by Tata Group: Report

Also Read: Apple iPhone 15 button design to get revamped: here’s how it could be different from the button less design

Xiaomi 14 Series Likely Set for Indian Launch After BIS Certification Listing

Team My Mobile

November 1, 2023

Highlights

Xiaomi 14 Series appears on India’s BIS certification website.
The Global variant model number “23127PN0CG” listed on the BIS site.
Strong indications that India could be among the first markets for Xiaomi 14 Series launch.
The new series will feature Xiaomi’s latest HyperOS.

Last week, Xiaomi unveiled its much-anticipated 14 Series in China, featuring the Xiaomi 14 and 14 Pro.

With the buzz around the Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s impending launch, it appears that the tech giant is setting the stage for a broader international rollout of the series.

The base model, known as the Xiaomi 14, has made an appearance on India’s Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) website.

This sighting strongly suggests that the phone could be making its Indian debut sooner.

Spotted under the model number “23127PN0CG,” this global variant of the Xiaomi 14 seems to have Indian tech aficionados buzzing.

Xiaomi 14 Series Likely Set for Indian Launch After BIS Certification Listing — Xiaomi 14 Series: BIS Certification Listing

Typically, Indian-specific Xiaomi models have an “I” at the end of the model number, making this BIS listing a strong indicator of Xiaomi’s intentions to introduce its 14 Series outside its home market.

India is expected to be among the first countries to witness the arrival of this new lineup.

Though the BIS listing spills little in terms of features, we already know what to expect from the Xiaomi 14, thanks to its China launch.

Of particular note is the introduction of HyperOS, Xiaomi’s latest operating system, which has taken the baton from MIUI after its 13-year reign.

While details are scarce at the moment, the BIS listing puts Xiaomi in a promising position to expand its latest series beyond China.

With the Xiaomi 14 Series, it looks like the brand is poised to offer India a slice of its most advanced technological feats yet.

Stay tuned for further developments.