Google simplifies removal of sensitive personal data
The search giant announced an expanded Search removal feature that makes it easier to take down sensitive personal information and non‑consensual explicit images. Users can now review results and request removal directly within the tool, or submit manual requests for content they discover themselves.
One‑click removal of explicit images
Google now allows batch submissions of explicit images, eliminating the need for separate requests for each photo. After an image is removed, the platform offers an optional filter that proactively blocks similar explicit content from appearing in future search results.
Centralised “Results About You” hub
All removal requests are tracked in a dedicated hub that sends email updates whenever a request’s status changes, giving users clearer visibility into the process.
Dark‑web alerts discontinued
Google is shutting down its dark‑web reporting service, which previously warned users when their name, phone number, or email appeared in data breaches. The company noted that those alerts often failed to enable meaningful action, a gap the new removal tools aim to fill.
AI is reshaping the global scam economy
According to Bloomberg, scam call centers across Southeast Asia are leveraging inexpensive AI tools to create more convincing fraud schemes. This trend follows earlier reports of AI being repurposed for cybercrime, including the use of chatbots like ChatGPT to generate malware.
DuckDuckGo launches Duck.ai voice chat
DuckDuckGo’s new Duck.ai voice chat lets users converse with an AI assistant without recording or storing audio, addressing privacy concerns that often accompany voice‑enabled services.
- Hands‑free interaction
- No audio storage or training use
- Focused on privacy‑first experience
WhatsApp Web adds video calling
WhatsApp is rolling out voice and video calls directly in the web client. The initial release supports one‑to‑one calls; group calls will follow later.
- Start a call from a browser tab
- No desktop app required for basic calls
- Limited to individual chats in the first wave
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