'Uber for Guns' App Protector Lets You Hire Armed Body Guards Like You Would an Uber — but Does Anyone Really Need This?
Protector, a new app launched last week in Los Angeles and New York City, allows ordinary people to order a Secret Service-like security detail. The app has generated significant buzz on social media platforms such as TikTok, where videos showcasing its luxury SUV-driving guards have racked up millions of views. Despite the initial hype, however, it's unclear whether users will actually pay for this service.
This concept may be an attempt to monetize a perceived need for security among wealthy individuals who can afford to hire bodyguards, potentially catering to those concerned about their safety in high-profile situations.
What are the implications of normalizing the idea of hiring armed bodyguards as a luxury item, and how might this normalize a culture of gun ownership among ordinary citizens?
Tesla has applied for a permit typically associated with chauffeur-operated services, Bloomberg News reported on Thursday, marking the first phase of a series of regulatory approvals required for the electric car maker to launch its promised robotaxi service. The company currently has the approval to test autonomous vehicles with a safety driver in California but lacks a permit for driverless testing or operations from the state's Department of Motor Vehicles. Tesla's application is part of its pivot towards robotaxis, driven by slowing demand for its aging electric vehicle lineup.
This move highlights the complex regulatory landscape surrounding autonomous vehicles and ride-hailing services, which will require careful consideration to ensure public safety.
What implications will this have on the future of urban mobility, particularly in densely populated cities with limited parking spaces?
Waymo has launched its autonomous ride-hailing service exclusively on Uber in Austin, Texas, allowing residents to request fully driverless robotaxis through the Uber app. This partnership marks a significant shift from their previous rivalry, as both companies aim to accelerate the transition to autonomous vehicles while navigating operational limitations in service area and fleet size. The collaboration also highlights the evolving landscape of transportation technology, with Uber managing key aspects of fleet operations and Waymo focusing on vehicle testing and rider support.
This partnership not only signals a new era of collaboration between former competitors but also reflects a broader trend in the tech industry where companies are joining forces to overcome challenges in the development of autonomous technologies.
What implications does this partnership have for the future of competition in the autonomous vehicle market, particularly for other ride-hailing services?
Uber's new chief product officer, Sachin Kansal, is preparing to integrate autonomous vehicles, including Waymo robotaxis, into the Uber app, a complex challenge that will test his well-known dogfooding strategy. His extensive firsthand experience with Uber's services positions him to address potential issues as the company partners with various autonomous technology firms to enhance its market presence. The launch of the "Waymo on Uber" service in Austin exemplifies a shift in Uber's approach to autonomous technology, emphasizing collaboration over in-house development amid ongoing controversies surrounding driver displacement.
Kansal's focus on user experience through dogfooding could serve as a blueprint for other tech companies navigating the intersection of innovation and public concern, potentially reshaping industry standards.
What strategies can Uber implement to alleviate driver concerns while effectively integrating autonomous vehicles into its business model?
Google is working on a new feature called Shielded Email, which aims to protect users from unwanted emails by creating an alias address when signing up for new accounts. This feature uses Google's autofill features to automatically forward emails sent to the alias address to the user's main email address, allowing them to easily block or unsubscribe from unwanted emails. By using a separate alias address, Shielded Email provides a buffer between users and service providers, making it harder for bad actors to track their online activity.
The introduction of Shielded Email highlights the growing concern over digital privacy and security, as more people become aware of the potential risks associated with sharing personal information across multiple platforms.
How will this new feature impact the overall trend of users taking steps to protect their digital footprints, particularly in light of increasing concerns about data collection and online surveillance?
Alpine Eagle's counter-drone system, Sentinel, is being developed to provide a cost-effective solution to the growing threat of drones in modern warfare. The startup's airborne system uses inexpensive, mass-producible technology to establish a symmetry against cheap strike drones, and its modular sensors can integrate various detection methods to identify low-flying drones that evade ground-based systems. By leveraging AI and swarming tactics, Sentinel aims to limit costs and casualties in drone-based operations.
This investment round marks an important milestone in the growth of European defense tech, as Alpine Eagle's success could pave the way for a new wave of startups focused on developing counter-drone solutions.
Will the increasing demand for counter-drone systems lead to a new arms race between nations, with each side developing more sophisticated drone-based technologies to outmaneuver their adversaries?
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.
As the number of vishing attacks continues to rise, it is essential for organizations to prioritize employee education and training on recognizing potential phishing attempts, as these attacks often rely on human psychology rather than technical vulnerabilities.
With the increasing sophistication of vishing tactics, what measures can individuals and organizations take to protect themselves from these types of attacks in the future, particularly as they become more prevalent in the digital landscape?
The Trump administration has proposed a new policy requiring people applying for green cards, US citizenship, and asylum or refugee status to submit their social media accounts. This move is seen as an attempt to vet applicants more thoroughly in the name of national security. The public has 60 days to comment on the proposal, which affects over 3.5 million people.
By scrutinizing social media profiles, the government may inadvertently create a digital surveillance state that disproportionately targets marginalized communities, exacerbating existing inequalities.
Will this policy serve as a model for other countries or will it remain a uniquely American attempt to balance national security concerns with individual liberties?
The U.S. Marshals Service is providing security to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., an unusual arrangement that has raised questions about the role of law enforcement in protecting government officials. The HHS Office of the Inspector General had previously provided protective services for Kennedy, but a February 12 email revealed plans to end this operation. The transition of security responsibility is being handled by Attorney General Pam Bondi, who described Kennedy as a "valued and respected leader" in her statement.
This unusual arrangement highlights the blurred lines between law enforcement and executive protection, raising concerns about the separation of powers and the potential for undue influence.
Will the use of federal agents to provide security for high-ranking officials like Kennedy further erode the public's trust in government institutions?
A recent discovery has revealed that Spyzie, another stalkerware app similar to Cocospy and Spyic, is leaking sensitive data of millions of people without their knowledge or consent. The researcher behind the finding claims that exploiting these flaws is "quite simple" and that they haven't been addressed yet. This highlights the ongoing threat posed by spyware apps, which are often marketed as legitimate monitoring tools but operate in a grey zone.
The widespread availability of spyware apps underscores the need for greater regulation and awareness about mobile security, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly.
What measures can be taken to prevent the proliferation of these types of malicious apps and protect users from further exploitation?
Britain's media regulator Ofcom has set a March 31 deadline for social media and other online platforms to submit a risk assessment around the likelihood of users encountering illegal content on their sites. The Online Safety Act requires companies like Meta, Facebook, Instagram, and ByteDance's TikTok to take action against criminal activity and make their platforms safer. These firms must assess and mitigate risks related to terrorism, hate crime, child sexual exploitation, financial fraud, and other offences.
This deadline highlights the increasingly complex task of policing online content, where the blurring of lines between legitimate expression and illicit activity demands more sophisticated moderation strategies.
What steps will regulators like Ofcom take to address the power imbalance between social media companies and governments in regulating online safety and security?
Tesla has begun rolling out an update to the Model Y that activates cabin radar, a technology that will soon be available in other models to facilitate child presence detection. This feature is designed to prevent tragic incidents of children being left unattended in vehicles, allowing the car to alert owners and even contact emergency services when a child is detected. With additional models like the Model 3 and Cybertruck set to receive this life-saving capability, Tesla is enhancing passenger safety by also improving airbag deployment via size classification.
This initiative reflects a broader trend in the automotive industry where companies are increasingly prioritizing safety through innovative technology, potentially influencing regulations and standards across the sector.
How might the implementation of such safety features shift consumer expectations and influence the competitive landscape among automakers?
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.
The situation illustrates a significant gap in the U.S. regulatory framework, where the focus on a single app diverts attention from a larger, more pervasive threat present in everyday technology.
What steps should consumers take to safeguard their privacy in a world increasingly dominated by foreign-made smart devices?
Honor has unveiled a new strategic realignment as it enters the age of AI, introducing highly useful enhancements for its Magic7 Pro camera system and other features. The company's Alpha Plan also includes interoperability with Apple's iOS for data sharing and the industry's first all-ecosystem file sharing technology. Honor's AI Deepfake Detection will be rolled out globally to Honor phones starting in April, while AI Upscale will restore old portrait photos and become available soon on the international release of its Snapdragon 8 Elite flagship.
This new strategy marks a significant shift for Honor as it aims to bridge the gap between Android and iOS ecosystems, potentially expanding its user base beyond traditional Android users.
As phone manufacturers continue to integrate more AI capabilities, how will this impact consumer expectations for seamless device experiences across different platforms?
Apple has announced a range of new initiatives designed to help parents and developers create a safer experience for kids and teens using Apple devices. The company is introducing an age-checking system for apps, which will allow parents to share information about their kids' ages with app developers to provide age-appropriate content. Additionally, the App Store will feature a more granular understanding of an app's appropriateness for a given age range through new age ratings and product pages.
The introduction of these child safety initiatives highlights the evolving role of technology companies in protecting children online, as well as the need for industry-wide standards and regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of minors.
As Apple's new system relies on parent input to determine an app's age range, what steps will be taken to prevent parents from manipulating this information or sharing it with unauthorized parties?
Threads has already registered over 70 million accounts and allows users to share custom feeds, which can be pinned to their homepage by others. Instagram is now rolling out ads in the app, with a limited test of brands in the US and Japan, and is also introducing scheduled posts, which will let users plan up to 75 days in advance. Threads has also announced its intention to label content generated by AI as "clearly produced" and provide context about who is sharing such content.
This feature reflects Instagram's growing efforts to address concerns around misinformation on the platform, highlighting the need for greater transparency and accountability in online discourse.
How will Threads' approach to AI-generated content impact the future of digital media consumption, particularly in an era where fact-checking and critical thinking are increasingly crucial?
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.
These tweaks reflect a growing recognition of the importance of digital privacy, empowering users to take control of their online security without relying solely on external tools or services.
What additional measures might users adopt to enhance their online security in an increasingly interconnected world?
TikTok's uncertain future in the US market has prompted its rival, Meta, to take a more aggressive approach to luring creators and their followers. As part of this effort, Meta is considering turning the Reels feature on Instagram into a standalone video app, codenamed Project Ray. This move could further shift the focus of the social media landscape away from TikTok.
The fragmentation of the short-form video space could lead to an explosion of niche platforms catering to specific user interests and needs.
Will this new strategy by Meta ultimately result in a homogenization of online content, as creators feel pressured to adapt their styles to appeal to the platform's massive user base?
Tesla has taken a major step toward launching its long-anticipated autonomous ride-hailing service, filing for regulatory approval in California. It has applied for a transportation charter-party carrier permit from the California Public Utilities Commission, signaling its intent to own and operate a fleet of ride-sharing vehicles in the state. While Tesla’s initial rollout will involve human drivers, the ultimate goal is a driverless robotaxi network.
The success of Tesla's robotaxi service could have far-reaching implications for urban mobility, potentially transforming the way we think about car ownership and public transportation.
Will the benefits of autonomous vehicles outweigh concerns over job displacement, increased traffic congestion, and the need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect passenger data?
The US Secret Service has shot an armed man outside the White House early on Sunday after a confrontation, and the man is now in an area hospital. President Donald Trump was not in the White House at the time, as he is spending the weekend at his Florida residence. The incident occurred after authorities received a tip about a suicidal person traveling to Washington from Indiana, and the individual brandished a firearm before being shot.
This incident raises concerns about the effectiveness of security protocols and communication between law enforcement agencies in preventing such situations, highlighting the need for more streamlined processes and coordination.
How will this incident impact public perception of the Secret Service's ability to protect the President and the White House, particularly given recent controversies surrounding the agency's handling of high-profile security breaches?
Shield AI has raised $240 million at a $5.3 billion valuation, expanding its capabilities to sell autonomous military drone software to a broader range of customers like robotics companies, allowing it to dominate the rapidly growing autonomy field in defense. The company's Hivemind technology already enables fighter jets and drones to fly autonomously, marking a significant milestone for the US defense tech startup industry. With this latest round of funding, Shield AI solidifies its position as one of the largest defense tech startups in the US by valuation.
The increasing investment in autonomous systems raises questions about the accountability and regulatory oversight of military technology in civilian hands, particularly with companies like Shield AI poised to expand their reach into commercial markets.
How will the growing reliance on AI in critical infrastructure like air traffic control and transportation systems impact national security and public safety?
NordLayer's new security-focused browser is set to address the growing concerns of enterprise businesses regarding online security, aiming to provide a unified solution with enhanced security measures, data loss prevention, and support for business growth. The browser's key features include Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) and Secure Web Gateway (SWG), allowing CISOs and security teams to control security settings in real-time. By implementing this solution, companies can protect themselves from various cyber threats, including phishing attacks, malware infiltration, and unauthorized data sharing.
As the importance of browser security increases, it's becoming essential for companies to consider the potential risks associated with their employees using personal devices for work, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive approach to cybersecurity.
Will NordLayer's new browser be able to effectively mitigate the growing threat of advanced persistent threats (APTs), which have become increasingly sophisticated in recent years?
Amazon is bringing its palm-scanning payment system to a healthcare facility, allowing patients to check in for appointments securely and quickly. The contactless service, called Amazon One, aims to speed up sign-ins, alleviate administrative strain on staff, and reduce errors and wait times. This technology has the potential to significantly impact patient experiences at NYU Langone Health facilities.
As biometric technologies become more prevalent in healthcare, it raises questions about data security and privacy: Can a system like Amazon One truly ensure that sensitive patient information remains protected?
How will the widespread adoption of biometric payment systems like Amazon One influence the future of healthcare interactions, potentially changing the way patients engage with medical services?
Apple's introduction of "age assurance" technology aims to give parents more control over the sensitive information shared with app developers, allowing them to set a child's age without revealing birthdays or government identification numbers. This move responds to growing concerns over data privacy and age verification in the tech industry. Apple's approach prioritizes parent-led decision-making over centralized data collection.
The tech industry's response to age verification laws will likely be shaped by how companies balance the need for accountability with the need to protect user data and maintain a seamless app experience.
How will this new standard for age assurance impact the development of social media platforms, particularly those targeting younger users?
Uber users in Austin now have a choice between a Waymo robotaxi and a human driver. The two companies officially launched Tuesday the “Waymo on Uber” robotaxi service in Austin as part of a partnership that has deepened in recent months. Starting today, Uber users who hail a ride may be matched with a Waymo robotaxi.
This strategic partnership between two major players in the autonomous vehicle industry raises questions about the future of competition and collaboration in the emerging robotaxi market.
As the first city to integrate Waymo's autonomous vehicles into its ride-hailing platform, Austin will likely serve as a testing ground for Uber's ambitions to expand its robotaxi services nationwide.
The US Secret Service shot a man outside the White House early on Sunday after an "armed confrontation", the service said in a statement. The incident occurred when officers approached a man matching the description of a suicidal individual who may be traveling to Washington DC from Indiana, who brandished a firearm. The man is now in hospital in an unknown condition, and President Donald Trump was not present at the White House as he was spending the weekend at his Florida residence.
The swift response by the Secret Service highlights the critical role of law enforcement in preventing potential threats to public safety, particularly in high-risk environments like the White House.
What implications might this incident have for the balance between security measures and individual civil liberties, particularly in the context of counter-terrorism operations?