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The Netherlands' Love Affair with Signal

Signal has taken the top spot as the most downloaded free app in the Netherlands for much of this past month, with its popularity surging by a factor of 25 compared to last year. The app's sustained position at the top can be attributed to its strong focus on privacy, which resonates deeply with the Dutch public. As the country grapples with concerns over data protection and digital dependence, Signal's message is gaining traction.

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Uk Consumers Show Interest in E-Sim, but Awareness Remains Low Δ1.72

A new survey conducted by BICS has found that while over half of UK consumers prefer to use an eSIM to avoid roaming charges, only 18% have actually used the technology. However, when made aware of its benefits for international travel, more than half (56%) said they would consider using an eSIM. The low awareness of eSIMs among UK consumers is likely to remain a challenge for non-traditional providers looking to capitalize on this trend.

The Ai Chatbot App Gains Global Momentum as Deepseek Surpasses U.s. Competition Δ1.71

DeepSeek has broken into the mainstream consciousness after its chatbot app rose to the top of the Apple App Store charts (and Google Play, as well). DeepSeek's AI models, trained using compute-efficient techniques, have led Wall Street analysts — and technologists — to question whether the U.S. can maintain its lead in the AI race and whether the demand for AI chips will sustain. The company's ability to offer a general-purpose text- and image-analyzing system at a lower cost than comparable models has forced domestic competition to cut prices, making some models completely free.

Agentic AI Has “Profound” Issues With Security and Privacy, Signal President Says Δ1.71

Meredith Whittaker, President of Signal, has raised alarms about the security and privacy risks associated with agentic AI, describing its implications as "haunting." She argues that while these AI agents promise convenience, they require extensive access to user data, which poses significant risks if such information is compromised. The integration of AI agents with messaging platforms like Signal could undermine the end-to-end encryption that protects user privacy.

Google Unveils Satellite Connectivity and AI Upgrades via Feature Drop Δ1.71

Google has released a major software update for Pixel smartphones that enables satellite connectivity for European Pixel 9 owners. The latest Feature Drop also improves screenshot management and AI features, such as generating images with people using artificial intelligence. Furthermore, the Weather app now offers pollen tracking and an AI-powered weather forecast in more countries, expanding user convenience.

Network Blocking Is Never Going to Be the Solution Δ1.70

Cloudflare has slammed anti-piracy tactics in Europe, warning that network blocking is never going to be the solution. The leading DNS server provider suggests that any type of internet block should be viewed as censorship and calls for more transparency and accountability. Those who have been targeted by blocking orders and lawsuits, including French, Spanish, and Italian authorities, warn that such measures lead to disproportionate overblocking incidents while undermining people's internet freedom.

Skype's Encryption Legacy Lives On as It Shuts Down Δ1.70

In 2003, Skype pioneered end-to-end encryption in the internet phone-calling app space, offering users unprecedented privacy. The company's early emphasis on secure communication helped to fuel global adoption and sparked anger among law enforcement agencies worldwide. Today, the legacy of Skype's encryption can be seen in the widespread use of similar technologies by popular messaging apps like iMessage, Signal, and WhatsApp.

Ransomware Dominates Cybersecurity Threats in 2024 Δ1.70

The modern-day cyber threat landscape has become increasingly crowded, with Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) becoming a major concern for cybersecurity teams worldwide. Group-IB's recent research points to 2024 as a 'year of cybercriminal escalation', with a 10% rise in ransomware compared to the previous year, and a 22% rise in phishing attacks. The "Game-changing" role of AI is being used by both security teams and cybercriminals, but its maturity level is still not there yet.

Global eSIM Shipment Volume Surpasses Half a Billion Units as Demand Keeps on Growing Δ1.70

The global eSIM market has experienced significant growth, with shipments reaching 503 million units in 2024, representing a 35% year-on-year increase. This surge in demand is attributed to the increasing adoption of eSIMs for international travel, resulting in a 56% rise in eSIM profile downloads. The improved economic landscape and advancements in smartphone technology have also contributed to the growth of eSIM sales.

AI Stocks on Wall Street's Radar Right Now: A New Generation of Ad Platforms Under Scrutiny Δ1.70

AppLovin Corporation (NASDAQ:APP) is pushing back against allegations that its AI-powered ad platform is cannibalizing revenue from advertisers, while the company's latest advancements in natural language processing and creative insights are being closely watched by investors. The recent release of OpenAI's GPT-4.5 model has also put the spotlight on the competitive landscape of AI stocks. As companies like Tencent launch their own AI models to compete with industry giants, the stakes are high for those who want to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving space.

Mistral Urges Telcos to Get Into the Hyperscaler Game Δ1.69

Mistral CEO Arthur Mensch is urging European telcos to invest in building data center infrastructure and "becoming hyperscalers" to boost the regional AI ecosystem. The company's investment in its own data center in France aims to serve domestic customers, while also moving down the stack to provide services to data centers. Mench emphasizes the need for more actors in the field compared to the current cloud market dominated by a few giants.

Eutelsat Secures European Space Connectivity Lead as Investors Bet on Oneweb Δ1.69

Eutelsat has reaffirmed its commitment to boosting Europe's autonomy in space-based connectivity, following a nearly 50% surge in its shares amid growing investor interest in its OneWeb satellites. The company's strategy to supply internet access to war-torn Ukraine and other regions has gained significant traction, driven by concerns over Starlink's sales momentum in Europe. As the European satellite operator gains ground on rival providers like SpaceX, Eutelsat is poised to capitalize on the growing demand for reliable space-based connectivity solutions.

Technical Issues Resolved Across Whatsapp and Other Meta Apps Δ1.69

WhatsApp's recent technical issue, reported by thousands of users, has been resolved, according to a spokesperson for the messaging service. The outage impacted users' ability to send messages, with some also experiencing issues with Facebook and Facebook Messenger. Meta's user base is massive, making any glitches feel like they affect millions worldwide.

Tencent's AI Dominance Sweeps China's iPhone Market Δ1.69

Tencent Holdings Ltd.'s Yuanbao AI chatbot has surpassed DeepSeek to become the most downloaded iPhone app in China, highlighting the intensifying domestic competition in the AI space. The company's integration of its in-house Hunyuan artificial intelligence tech with R1 reasoning model from DeepSeek has given it a significant edge. This move marks a turning point for the Chinese tech giant as it seeks to ramp up its presence in the rapidly growing AI user base.

'Gamestop Effect': Retail Traders Seen Behind Eutelsat's 650% Surge Δ1.69

Eutelsat's shares have experienced an astounding increase of nearly 650% over four days, largely attributed to retail traders engaging in a short squeeze reminiscent of the Gamestop phenomenon. The surge in stock price has been driven by speculation that Eutelsat could potentially replace Elon Musk's Starlink in providing internet access to Ukraine, following geopolitical tensions. Analysts suggest that this rally reflects not only the influence of retail investors but also a reaction to broader shifts in global politics, emphasizing the volatility of the market.

TikTok’s American Ownership Rule Ignores Bigger IoT Threat Δ1.69

The debate over banning TikTok highlights a broader issue regarding the security of Chinese-manufactured Internet of Things (IoT) devices that collect vast amounts of personal data. As lawmakers focus on TikTok's ownership, they overlook the serious risks posed by these devices, which can capture more intimate and real-time data about users' lives than any social media app. This discrepancy raises questions about national security priorities and the need for comprehensive regulations addressing the potential threats from foreign technology in American homes.

Web DDoS Attacks See Major Surge as AI Allows More Powerful Attacks Δ1.69

Layer 7 Web DDoS attacks have surged by 550% in 2024, driven by the increasing accessibility of AI tools that enable even novice hackers to launch complex campaigns. Financial institutions and transportation services reported an almost 400% increase in DDoS attack volume, with the EMEA region bearing the brunt of these incidents. The evolving threat landscape necessitates more dynamic defense strategies as organizations struggle to differentiate between legitimate and malicious traffic.

Worried About DeepSeek? Well, Google Gemini Collects Even More of Your Personal Data Δ1.69

Google Gemini stands out as the most data-hungry service, collecting 22 of these data types, including highly sensitive data like precise location, user content, the device's contacts list, browsing history, and more. The analysis also found that 30% of the analyzed chatbots share user data with third parties, potentially leading to targeted advertising or spam calls. DeepSeek, while not the worst offender, collects only 11 unique types of data, including user input like chat history, raising concerns under GDPR rules.

The Hunt for the Next Twitter: All the News About Alternative Social Media Platforms Δ1.69

The landscape of social media continues to evolve as several platforms vie to become the next dominant microblogging service in the wake of Elon Musk's acquisition of Twitter, now known as X. While Threads has emerged as a leading contender with substantial user growth and a commitment to interoperability, platforms like Bluesky and Mastodon also demonstrate resilience and unique approaches to social networking. Despite these alternatives gaining traction, X remains a significant player, still attracting users and companies for their initial announcements and discussions.

US Chip Darlings Struggle, Software Sees Rise in AI Play Δ1.69

U.S. chip stocks have stumbled this year, with investors shifting their focus to software companies in search of the next big thing in artificial intelligence. The emergence of lower-cost AI models from China's DeepSeek has dimmed demand for semiconductors, while several analysts see software's rise as a longer-term evolution in the AI space. As attention shifts away from semiconductor shares, some investors are betting on software companies to benefit from the growth of AI technology.

Protecting Yourself From Vishing Attacks Surged 442% Last Year Δ1.69

Vishing attacks have skyrocketed, with CrowdStrike tracking at least six campaigns in which attackers pretended to be IT staffers to trick employees into sharing sensitive information. The security firm's 2025 Global Threat Report revealed a 442% increase in vishing attacks during the second half of 2024 compared to the first half. These attacks often use social engineering tactics, such as help desk social engineering and callback phishing, to gain remote access to computer systems.

Eutelsat in Talks with EU to Ramp up Satellite Internet to Ukraine, as Shares Soar Δ1.69

Eutelsat is in advanced discussions with the European Union to supply additional internet access to Ukraine, driven by the prospect that its OneWeb satellites could replace Elon Musk's Starlink there. The surge in Eutelsat's shares reflects investors' optimism about the company's potential role in Europe's satellite autonomy efforts. As a result, the company is actively collaborating with European institutions and business partners to enable the swift deployment of additional user terminals for critical missions and infrastructure.

EU Must ‘Fully’ Apply Its Market Fairness Rulebook on Google, Search Rivals Urge Δ1.69

The European Union is facing pressure to intensify its investigation of Google under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), with rival search engines and civil society groups alleging non-compliance with the directives meant to ensure fair competition. DuckDuckGo and Seznam.cz have highlighted issues with Google’s implementation of the DMA, particularly concerning data sharing practices that they believe violate the regulations. The situation is further complicated by external political pressures from the United States, where the Trump administration argues that EU regulations disproportionately target American tech giants.

US Chip Darlings Struggle, Some Bet on Software as Next Big AI Play Δ1.68

US chip stocks were the biggest beneficiaries of last year's artificial intelligence investment craze, but they have stumbled so far this year, with investors moving their focus to software companies in search of the next best thing in the AI play. The shift is driven by tariff-driven volatility and a dimming demand outlook following the emergence of lower-cost AI models from China's DeepSeek, which has highlighted how competition will drive down profits for direct-to-consumer AI products. Several analysts see software's rise as a longer-term evolution as attention shifts from the components of AI infrastructure.

Europol Arrests Online Network Users for Sharing Ai Csam Δ1.68

Europol has arrested 25 individuals involved in an online network sharing AI-generated child sexual abuse material (CSAM), as part of a coordinated crackdown across 19 countries lacking clear guidelines. The European Union is currently considering a proposed rule to help law enforcement tackle this new situation, which Europol believes requires developing new investigative methods and tools. The agency plans to continue arresting those found producing, sharing, and distributing AI CSAM while launching an online campaign to raise awareness about the consequences of using AI for illegal purposes.

5 Easy Browser Tweaks That Secure Your Web Surfing Δ1.68

Modern web browsers offer several built-in settings that can significantly enhance data security and privacy while online. Key adjustments, such as enabling two-factor authentication, disabling the saving of sensitive data, and using encrypted DNS requests, can help users safeguard their personal information from potential threats. Additionally, leveraging the Tor network with specific configurations can further anonymize web browsing, although it may come with performance trade-offs.