TransUnion Data Breach Impacts Millions; Gmail Security Assessments Discovered to Be Incorrect

### TransUnion Data Breach Reveals Confidential Consumer Data

A major data breach at the credit reporting agency TransUnion has exposed the personal details of around 4.4 million consumers in the United States. This incident has sparked worries over identity theft, as sensitive information such as names, social security numbers, and birthdates were revealed.

#### Breach Details

TransUnion has verified that the unauthorized access occurred via a third-party application utilized for U.S. consumer support tasks. According to required state disclosures, the compromised data includes:

– Name
– Social Security Number
– Date of Birth

While the organization guarantees that no credit data was accessed, the threat of identity theft remains a significant issue for those impacted. TransUnion is informing affected individuals through letters that outline the event and offer assistance resources.

#### Guidance for Consumers

Given this breach, professionals suggest that consumers implement proactive steps to safeguard their identities. One recommended measure is to freeze credit reports, which can hinder the opening of new accounts in their names. This is especially advisable for individuals who are not presently seeking credit.

#### Legal Proceedings

As is typical following data breaches, a law firm is organizing a class action suit against TransUnion. This underscores the legal consequences that companies may encounter when they inadequately safeguard consumer data.

### Gmail Security Claims Are Incorrect

In a separate but significant incident, Google has denied assertions regarding a significant security problem impacting Gmail users. Claims circulated that the company had issued an urgent warning to its 2.5 billion users amidst a series of cyber attacks. Google firmly stated that these assertions are “completely untrue.”

#### Google’s Clarification

Google explained that while phishing attempts remain an ongoing threat, their security protocols successfully thwart over 99.9% of such assaults. The misunderstanding seems to originate from a phishing attack targeting Salesforce back in June, which impacted a limited group of users who have already been informed.

### Conclusion

The TransUnion data breach acts as a clear reminder of the weaknesses in data security and the necessity of protecting personal information. Consumers are encouraged to stay alert and undertake essential measures to safeguard their identities. At the same time, the misinformation surrounding Gmail security emphasizes the importance of precise reporting and communication from technology firms concerning cybersecurity challenges.

Survey Reveals Substantial Portion of iPhone Users Intend to Switch to Android for Foldable Devices This Year

### Survey Uncovers iPhone Users’ Interest in Folding Smartphones

A recent survey carried out by SellCell has brought to light fascinating revelations regarding the preferences of U.S. iPhone users. The survey, which included 2,000 participants, shows that almost one-third of existing iPhone owners are contemplating a switch to Samsung or Google for a folding smartphone this year, instead of waiting for the anticipated release of the iPhone Fold next year.

#### Principal Findings of the Survey

1. **Desire to Upgrade**: The survey reveals that 68.3% of iPhone owners intend to upgrade to the forthcoming iPhone 17. This percentage is quite high, particularly since many users usually keep their smartphones for four to five years.

2. **Attraction of Folding Phones**: Roughly 30.3% of participants indicated a desire to buy a folding phone this year. This interest targets models like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 and the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold.

3. **Considerations for the Future**: Should Apple postpone the iPhone Fold until 2026, the survey indicates that 20.1% of participants would be open to switching to Samsung foldables, while 10.2% would consider devices from Google.

4. **View of Android**: While 49% of iPhone users assert that nothing about Android catches their eye, a notable number admit that Android is becoming more appealing. Reasons for this change include advancements in AI (13%), competitive pricing (11%), camera performance (11%), and the presence of foldable phones (9%).

5. **Value of AI Features**: The survey also points out that 44% of respondents find Apple’s AI features, especially in photography and editing applications, to be very important.

#### Consequences for Apple

The findings offer a mixed outlook for Apple. On one side, the robust interest in upgrading to the iPhone 17 is encouraging. Conversely, the possibility of a considerable number of users migrating to competitors for foldable alternatives raises red flags. The survey results imply that while Apple retains a devoted customer base, the attraction of innovative features from competitors is becoming increasingly difficult to overlook.

#### Final Thoughts

The idea that nearly a third of iPhone users are thinking about transitioning to folding smartphones marks a significant shift in the smartphone market. As Apple gears up for its inaugural foldable device launch, the company must tackle the intensifying competition and changing consumer preferences. The survey findings prompt a critical examination of brand loyalty and the elements that shape smartphone selections in a progressively competitive environment.

Apple @ Work Podcast: How Legal Hold Tackles Key Concerns in macOS Backup Solutions

### Apple @ Work: Perspectives from Gleb Budman of Backblaze

In the rapidly changing realm of technology, it is crucial for organizations, particularly those using Apple devices, to manage and secure data effectively. In a recent installment of Apple @ Work, Gleb Budman, CEO of Backblaze, provided insightful perspectives on macOS backups, the significance of data protection, and innovative offerings like Backblaze B2 and Legal Hold.

#### The Significance of macOS Backups

Budman underscored the vital importance of backups in protecting data. Given the growing dependence on digital information, having a strong backup strategy is vital for businesses to mitigate data loss stemming from hardware malfunctions, accidental deletions, or cyber threats. Backblaze presents a convenient backup solution designed specifically for macOS users, ensuring that crucial files are automatically backed up without the need for continuous manual effort.

#### Legal Hold: Safeguarding Your Business

Another important theme addressed was Legal Hold, a function that enables organizations to retain data in response to legal requests. This feature is essential for businesses needing to adhere to regulations and safeguard sensitive information during legal matters. Budman elaborated on how Backblaze’s Legal Hold feature assists organizations in preserving data integrity and accessibility, making certain they are ready for any potential legal challenges.

#### Backblaze B2 and AI Integration

The discussion also covered Backblaze B2, a cloud storage solution aimed at businesses seeking an affordable and scalable method for data storage. Budman noted the inclusion of artificial intelligence (AI) within Backblaze B2, which improves data management and retrieval processes. By utilizing AI, organizations can enhance their storage solutions, facilitating easier access to and analysis of data as necessary.

#### Conclusion

As businesses increasingly adopt Apple devices, the necessity for effective data management and protection grows in significance. Solutions like those provided by Backblaze offer organizations the essential tools to protect their information, meet legal obligations, and take advantage of advanced technologies like AI for greater efficiency. For those looking to delve deeper into these solutions, the episode provides a wealth of knowledge and practical guidance.

For more insights, you can listen to the full episode

LAX Officials Retrieve Purloined Baggage Utilizing Apple AirTag Technology

### The Function of Apple AirTag in Retrieving Stolen Luggage

An Apple [AirTag](https://www.amazon.com/Apple-MX542LL-A-AirTag-Pack/dp/B0D54JZTHY/?tag=marcmendes-20) was instrumental in assisting a man from West Hollywood in recovering his stolen suitcase after he reached Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) the previous week. This event underscores the potency of tracking technology in fighting against theft.

#### The Event

Daniel Scott had just arrived in Los Angeles from Salt Lake City when he realized that his suitcase was gone. After checking two separate baggage carousels without any luck, he opted to use the Find My app, which he had earlier configured with an AirTag placed in his suitcase. The app showed that his luggage was in transit, moving towards the ride-sharing zone of the airport.

Though he hurried to the area, Scott was not able to catch up with his suitcase. Nonetheless, he continued tracking its whereabouts through the app. The location tracking indicated that the luggage was heading to a nearby abandoned building.

#### Involvement of Authorities

Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Scott reached out to the LAX police. Officers acted quickly, using flashlights to search the abandoned building. Inside, they found an individual donning Scott’s clothing along with his suitcase, which had been searched through, leaving clothes strewn across various rooms.

The police apprehended the suspects, and Scott managed to retrieve most of his possessions. In a conversation with NBC Los Angeles, he voiced his appreciation for the AirTag’s help and urged fellow travelers to think about utilizing such tracking gadgets. He also counseled against confronting thieves alone in like situations.

#### Conclusion

This occurrence highlights the possible advantages of employing technology such as the Apple AirTag for tracking personal belongings. As travel continues to rise, the capability to locate lost or stolen items can offer reassurance to travelers. Have you ever retrieved a missing or stolen item thanks to an

A Thorough Resource on Classic Macintosh Programming Literature for Today’s Audience

During the weekend, Daring Fireball’s John Gruber pointed to an incredible assortment of early Macintosh programming texts, curated by VintageApple.org. This assortment boasts over 150 books from as early as 1983, addressing a diverse array of subjects from AppleSoft BASIC to game programming on the Mac.

The Vintage Macintosh Programming Book Library came to fruition due to the kindness of Nick R., who generously provided his complete vintage Mac programming library for scanning and dissemination. The assortment features prominent works such as Apple’s ‘Inside Macintosh X Ref’, Steve Chernicoff’s ‘How to Write Macintosh Software’, and the 1992 version of Apple’s ‘Macintosh Human Interface Guidelines’. One particularly captivating title is Dan Shafer’s 1986 publication ‘Artificial Intelligence Programming on the Macintosh’, which offers insightful perspectives on the initial stages of AI advancement.

This endeavor functions not only as a resource for individuals who lived through the Macintosh era but also provides a window into the collaborative journey of personal computing during its early years. For those who did not witness this period, it offers a chance to comprehend the progression of software development and user experience design.

The assortment is a goldmine for both nostalgic users and new fans alike, encouraging exploration and contemplation of the early days of Macintosh programming.