The World Opinion

Category: Technology

  • Meta Blocks Iran-Linked Hackers On WhatsApp Targeting US Officials |

    California: Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp has said that its security teams had blocked a small cluster of accounts on the WhatsApp messaging platform, who were posing as support agents for tech companies.

    The WhatsApp accounts were linked to a group of hackers affiliated with Iran and the same group has also attempted email phishing attacks targeting people connected with US President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and former US President Donald Trump along with political and diplomatic officials among others. , Meta said in a statement on August 23.

    Meta said it has not seen evidence the targeted WhatsApp accounts were successfully compromised, but said it has shared information with law enforcement and other tech companies.

    Earlier, the US formally accused Iran of attempting to undermine the US presidential elections. In a joint statement on August 19, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, the FBI, and the federal cybersecurity agency CISA said, “Iran perceives this year’s elections to be particularly consequential in terms of the impact they could have on its national security interests, increasing Tehran’s inclination to try to shape the outcome.”

    “We have observed increasingly aggressive Iranian activity during this election cycle, specifically involving influence operations targeting the American public and cyber operations targeting Presidential campaigns,” the statement read.

    The US presidential polls are scheduled for this November with a face-off between US Vice President Kamala Harris who is the Democratic candidate with former US President and Republican candidate Donald Trump. Meta in its statement on August 23 said that the recent “malicious activity” originated in Iran and attempted to target individuals in Israel, Palestine, Iran, the United States and the UK.

    It said that the hackers on WhatsApp pretended to be technical support for AOL, Google, Yahoo, and Microsoft. The tech company said that a small cluster of “likely social engineering activity” on WhatsApp was blocked by its security teams after investigating user reports.

    They attempted to trick targets into revealing sensitive information, such as account passwords, the company said, adding that it identified the campaign after some of the targets reported suspicious messages to WhatsApp.

    Meta said that its investigation linked the hacking attempts to APT42 (also known as UNC788 and Mint Sandstorm), an Iranian threat actor known for its persistent adversarial campaigns using basic phishing tactics across the internet to steal credentials to people’s online accounts.

    The US company said that they had previously shared threat research related to the group targeting people in West Asia, including Saudi military, dissidents and human rights activists from Israel and Iran, politicians in the US, and Iran-focused academics, activists and journalists around the world.

  • Instagram’s New Feature: How To Add Song To Your Insta Profile; Follow THESE 6 Simple Steps |

    Instagram New Feature: Meta-owned platform Instagram has rolled out a new feature that allows users to add a song to their profile. However, the new functionality is pretty similar to the now barren social media platform Myspace in the early 2000s.

    The new feature has been launched with the new addition in collaboration with American popstar Sabrina Carpenter, whose Instagram profile will now include a teaser to her upcoming single “Taste” from the album “Short n’ Sweet”.

    Currently, Instagram also introduced a feature that allows users to add up to 20 tracks to a single reel and visually align audio with elements like text, stickers, and clips during editing in the app.

    Here’s How You Can Add A Song To Your Instagram Profile

    Step 1: Open the Instagram app and go to your profile by tapping the profile icon.

    Step 2: Tap the “Edit Profile” button just below your bio.

    Step 3: Scroll down and select the “Add Music to Your Profile” option.

    Step 4: Browse through the available songs or search for your favorite track.

    Step 5: Choose a 30-second portion of the song that you want to feature on your profile.

    Step 6: Once you’re satisfied with your selection, save it. The song will now appear in your bio section, ready to be played by anyone who visits your profile.

  • WhatsApp Users In India To Receive Ads From These Companies; Alcohol-Related Ads Not Allowed – Check Eligibility |

    WhatsApp Users In India: Meta-owned platform has updated its WhatsApp Business messaging policy that will allow companies from regulated sectors such as real-money gaming and over-the-counter drugs to use the WhatsApp Business platform to send promotional messages to users in India. .

    The change in WhatsApp’s Business messaging policy comes as Facebook parent Meta looks to accelerate monetization from WhatsApp, its most expensive acquisition to date. Notably, the instant messaging app is currently the world’s most popular messaging app with over 2 billion daily active users across the world and India being its biggest market with over 500 million users.

    This new policy marks a notable change by allowing the platform to include certain restricted sectors, such as alcohol, in select countries. However, in India, promotional content related to alcohol remains banned.

    It is important to note that the WhatsApp Business app is aimed towards small businesses. Meanwhile, the WhatsApp Business platform is designed for medium to large businesses. Notably, the new policy also mandates that businesses ensure messages comply with legal age restrictions, geographic requirements, and regulatory standards through technical and organizational measures. They also cannot send messages to people under 18 years of age.

    India along with other countries or regions where activities such as gambling, games of chance, or related activities are prohibited, businesses must also ensure that their messages only include those activities that are lawful, the new policy states.

    Earlier, WhatsApp introduced new conversation categories—Utility, Authentication, Marketing, and Service — and revised its pricing model to charge businesses based on these categories reportedly.

  • Moto G45 5G Launched In India With Dual Camera Under Rs 15,000; Check Specs, Introductory Offers |

    Moto G45 5G India Launch: Lenovo-owned brand Motorola has launched the Moto G45 5G smartphone in the Indian market. The newly launched smartphone comes in Brilliant Blue, Viva Magneta, and Brilliant Green color options.

    The dual SIM (hybrid) phone runs on Android 14 with an assured upgrade to Android 15 and three years of security updates. It is offered in 4GB+128GB and 8GB+128GB storage models. However, the internal storage is further expandable via a microSD card. The device is also equipped with Dolby Atmos, Hi-res audio, an IP52 rating and stereo speakers.

    Be Fast, Be Wow with the all new #MotoG45 5G!

    Feel the power in your hands with lightning-fast 5G speed powered by the Snapdragon® 6s Gen 3 octa-core processor.

    Sale starts Aug 28, starting at ₹9,999* @Flipkart, https://t.co/azcEfy1Wlo & leading stores.#FastNWow — Motorola India (@motorolaindia) August 21, 2024

    Moto G45 5G Price In India And Availability

    The newly launched phone is priced at Rs 10,999 for the 4GB+128GB storage model and Rs 12,999 for the 8GB+128GB storage variant. Consumers can purchase the Moto G45 5G smartphone via Flipkart, Motorola and leading retail stores from August 28th at 12 PM IST.

    Moto G45 5G Introductory Offers:

    Consumers can avail of an instant discount of Rs 1000 on Axis Bank, and IDFC First Bank credit card and credit card EMI transactions. Notably, the introductory offers will be applicable from August 28 till September 10. (Also Read: OnePlus Buds Pro 3 Launched In India With Dual Audio Drivers Under Rs 12,000; Check Specs, Introductory Offers)

    Moto G45 5G Specifications:

    The smartphone features a 6.5-inch HD+ (720 x 1,600 pixels) hole punch LCD display with 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, 240Hz touch sampling rate, and a 20:9 aspect ratio.

    It is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 chipset with Adreno GPU for graphics. The Moto G45 5G is loaded with a 5,000mAh battery with 20W wired fast charging support.

    On the optics front, the smartphone sports a dual camera unit with a 50-megapixel primary sensor and a 2-megapixel macro camera with a single LED flash. For selfies and video calls, there is a 16-megapixel camera on the front. (Also Read: Vivo T3 Pro 5G India Launch Date Officially Confirmed, Could Debut With 6.78-inch AMOLED Display; Check Expected Specs)

    For connectivity, the phone supports 5G, dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, and a USB Type-C port for charging. There is also a side-mounted fingerprint sensor and face unlock for security.

  • Reliance Jio Introduces International Roaming Packs For Several Countries With Unlimited Incoming SMS, Local Calls –Check Full Benefits |

    Mumbai: Telecom operator Jio has introduced country-specific packs roaming packs for destinations, such as the United Arab Emirates, Canada, Thailand, and Saudi Arabia.

    The key benefits and features are customers while in visit to these countries will receive seamless unlimited incoming SMS, outgoing calls include Local calls within the visited country and call back to India (call back to India includes Wi-Fi calling as well), incoming calls can be received from any country, including Wi-Fi calling.

    Customers will avail high-speed data and beyond Fair Usage Policy (FUP), which means once one has exhausted their data quota for the day, unlimited data at 64 kbps.

    Outgoing Local and rest of the world calls and SMS over Wi-Fi Calling are not allowed (To make calls/SMS, disable only Wi-Fi Calling in your device’s Settings.)

    The new country-specific packs include exclusive packs for go-to destinations across 24 countries of the Caribbean. The key features and benefits of Caribbean packs are, unlimited incoming SMS, outgoing calls include local calls within the country and call back to India and also rest of the world, additional inflight benefit with Rs 3851 pack, high-speed data and beyond Fair Usage Policy (FUP).

    In addition, Jio also offers exclusive packs for go-to destinations in 32 European countries. The features and benefits of the Europe pack include unlimited incoming SMS, outgoing calls include local calls within the country and call back to India (Call back to India includes Wi-Fi calling).

    Among other benefits are incoming calls can be received from any country, including Wi-Fi calling, additional Inflight benefit with Europe pack, high-speed data and beyond Fair Usage Policy (FUP).

  • Poco Pad 5G Tablet With Snapdragon Processor Launched: Check Price, Specs, Availability & More |

    New Delhi: Chinese smartphone brand Poco has made its debut in the tablet market in India with the launch of Poco Pad 5G. This tablet will feature a large 12.1-inch display with 2.5k resolution. It is Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 processor and equipped with a 10,000mAh battery.

    What color options are available for the Poco Pad 5G?

    The Poco Pad 5G is available in two colours: Cobalt Blue and Pistachio Green.

    Poco Pad 5G: Price

    The Poco Pad 5G comes in two variants in India: the 8GB RAM + 128GB storage model is priced at Rs. 23,999, while the 8GB RAM + 256GB storage version is priced at Rs. 25,999.

    Poco Pad 5G: Availability and offers

    The Poco Pad 5G will be available on Flipkart starting August 27. For the first day of the sale, customers using SBI, HDFC, and ICICI bank cards can get a Rs. 3,000 discount while students can get an additional Rs. ₹1,000 off. No-cost EMI options for three and six months are also available. Poco Pad 5G: Specs

    The Poco Pad 5G comes with a 12.1-inch 2K display that delivers a resolution of 2,560 x 1,600 pixels. It supports a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate and a 16:10 aspect ratio for smooth visuals. The screen also offers a peak brightness of 600 nits, is TÜV Rhineland triple certified, and is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass.

    Inside, the tablet is powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 processor, paired with 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM and up to 256GB of UFS 2.2 storage. You can expand the storage up to 1.5TB using a microSD card. The device runs on HyperOS, based on Android 14.

    – Rear Camera: 8MP camera with LED flash.

    – Front Camera: 8MP camera positioned on the right-side bezel, ideal for video calls.

    – Durability: IP52 rating for resistance against dust and splashes.

    – Audio Features: Quad-speaker setup, dual microphones, 3.5mm headphone jack, and Dolby Atmos support.

    – Display: Dolby Vision support for enhanced visual experience.

  • iPhone 15 Sees Major Price Drop Before iPhone 16 Launch: Discount Details Inside |

    New Delhi: Apple is set to unveil its new iPhone 16 series just about a year after the iPhone 15 hit the market. While the release date for the iPhone 16 remains under wraps, anticipation is growing for the new features the devices will bring. In the meantime, the iPhone 15 is grabbing attention for its notable price drop on Flipkart during the Month-End Mobiles Fest which runs until August 26.

    The 128GB version of the iPhone 15 is currently available for RS 64,999 on Flipkart, down from Apple’s official price of Rs 79,600. This discount of Rs 14,501 is a significant offer on a device that was a flagship model just a year ago.

    Along with the direct discount, Flipkart is also offering an exchange deal that could cut the price by up to Rs 42,100, based on the condition of your old phone. Keep in mind, though, that the actual exchange value might be lower than the maximum advertised amount.

    This deal on the iPhone 15 does not include additional bank discounts from Flipkart. Buyers should consider making their purchase soon as prices and availability might change before the sale concludes.

    Early rumors about the iPhone 16 series indicate that the standard models will come with only minor updates, including a slightly bigger battery, a new chipset, and some small design tweaks. Given that the new models are expected to have higher prices, those who can afford to wait might want to hold off and see the full details of the iPhone 16 before buying.

  • Center Cautions Citizens Not To Fall Prey To Fraudulent Calls Impersonating TRAI |

    The Center on Wednesday cautioned citizens not to fall prey to fraudulent calls impersonating officials from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). There have been numerous instances where scammers, claiming to be from the telecom regulatory body, threaten people that their numbers will be blocked soon unless they give certain personal information.

    “It has been brought to the notice of TRAI that a lot of pre-recorded calls are being made to citizens claiming to be from the TRAI,” the regulatory body said. The TRAI further clarified that it does not initiate communication with customers regarding mobile number disconnection through messages or otherwise.

    “TRAI has also not authorized any third-party agency to contact customers for such purposes. Therefore, any form of communication (call, message or notice) claiming to be from TRAI and threatening mobile number disconnection should be considered a potential fraudulent attempt and must not be entertained,” it advised.

    The government also encouraged citizens to report suspected fraudulent communications through the Chakshu facility on the Department of Telecommunications’ Sanchar Saathi platform. “For confirmed instances of cybercrime, victims should report the incident at the designated cyber crime helpline number ‘1930’ or through the official website,” said TRAI.

    Moreover, the disconnection of any mobile number due to billing, KYC or misuse if any, is done by the respective telecom service provider (TSP). Citizens are advised to be vigilant and not panic to fall prey to suspected fraudsters. TRAI said they should cross-verify such calls by contacting the authorized call centers or customer service centers of the respective TSP.

    Meanwhile, the regulatory body has directed access service providers to take concrete measures to curb misuse of messaging services, effective from September 1. The telecom authority mandated them to migrate telemarketing calls starting with 140 series to the online distributed ledger technology (DLT) platform, latest by September 30, for better monitoring and control.

  • Free Netflix Included With Jio, Airtel, And Vi Prepaid Plans—Check Prices Here |

    New Delhi: If you’re an Indian consumer and searching for a prepaid plan that comes with a Netflix subscription, your choices are limited. Three telecom giants—Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea (Vi)—stand out by offering plans that include Netflix’s Basic plan. With this plan, usually valued at Rs 199 per month you can stream shows and movies in 720p HD on a single screen.

    Reliance Jio: Ideal for Heavy Users and 5G Enthusiasts

    Jio offers two standout plans:

    – Rs 1,299 Plan: With this plan you can enjoy 2GB of daily data for 84 days (168GB total) with unlimited voice calls, 100 SMS per day, and unlimited 5G data.

    – Rs 1,799 Plan: Get 3GB of daily data for 84 days (252 GB total), plus the same unlimited benefits as the Rs 1,299 plan.

    Both plans are designed for heavy data users, especially those in 5G-enabled areas. With unlimited 5G access, users can enjoy high-speed connectivity without worrying about data limits.

    Vodafone Idea (Vi) Prepaid Plans: Free Netflix

    Vodafone Idea offers two prepaid plans with free Netflix, both costing over Rs 1,000. These plans are slightly cheaper than Jio’s comparable options.

    – Rs 1,198 Plan: This plan provides 2GB of daily data for a total of 70 days, which amounts to 140GB. In addition to the ample data, you get unlimited voice calls and 100 SMS per day.

    – Rs 1,599 Plan: With this plan, you receive 2.5GB of daily data for 84 days, totaling 210GB. It also includes unlimited voice calls and SMS.

    However, Vodafone Idea’s absence of 5G services might be a drawback for those looking for faster connectivity.

    Bharti Airtel’s Prepaid Plan: Free Netflix and Unlimited 5G Data

    Bharti Airtel has a single prepaid plan with a free Netflix subscription:

    – Rs 1,798 Plan: This plan offers 3GB of daily data for 84 days, adding up to 252 GB in total. It also includes unlimited voice calls, 100 SMS per day, and unlimited 5G data. It’s similar to Jio’s Rs 1,799 plan.

  • iQOO Z9s, iQOO Z9s Pro Launched In India With 6.67-inch Display, Starting At Rs 19,999; Check Specs, Price |

    iQOO Z9s Series India Launch: Chinese smartphone brand iQOO has launched the iQOO Z9s series in the Indian market. The series includes iQOO Z9s and iQOO Z9s Pro smartphones. The iQOO Z9s comes in Titanium Matte and Onyx Green color options. Meanwhile, the iQOO Z9s Pro is offered in Luxe Marble and Flamboyant Orange with a vegan leather back.

    The iQOO Z9s is offered in 8GB+128GB, 8GB + 256GB, and 12GB + 256GB storage models. On the other hand, the iQOO Z9s Pro comes with the same storage options.

    iQOO Z9s Price And Availability:

    The phone is priced at Rs 19,999 for the base model with 8GB+128GB storage model. The 8GB + 256GB and 12GB + 256GB model are priced at Rs 21,999 and Rs 23,999, respectively. The phone will be available to purchase on August 29th via iQOO’s online store and Amazon. Notably, there is also a discount and exchange bonus of Rs 3,000. (Also Read: Moto G45 5G Launched In India With Dual Camera Under Rs 15,000; Check Specs, Introductory Offers)

    iQOO Z9s Pro Price And Availability:

    The 8GB + 128GB variant is priced at Rs 24,999, while the 8GB + 256GB variant is available for Rs 26,999. The 12GB + 256GB variant costs Rs 28,999. Consumers can purchase the smartphone on August 23rd through iQOO’s online store and Amazon. Consumers can avail of an instant discount of Rs 3,000 with ICICI and HDFC Bank cards, along with an exchange bonus of Rs 3,000 on the iQOO Z9s Pro. (Also Read: OnePlus Buds Pro 3 Launched In India With Dual Audio Drivers Under Rs 12,000; Check Specs, Introductory Offers)

    iQOO Z9s Specifications:

    The smartphone features a 6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a resolution of 2392×1080 pixels, offering a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and a responsive 300Hz touch sampling rate.

    The phone is loaded with a 5,500mAh battery supports 44W fast charging. It is powered by MediaTek Dimensity 7300 SoC, paired with a Mali-G615 GPU. The phone runs FuntouchOS 14 based on Android 14; the device promises 2 years of Android updates and 3 years of software updates.

    On the optics front, the smartphone comes with a 50MP primary camera with OIS + 2MP Bokeh camera. For selfies and video calls, there is a 16MP shooter on the front.

    Adding further, the features include an IP64 rating for dust and water resistance, an in-display fingerprint sensor, and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity.

    iQOO Z9s Pro Specifications:

    The smartphone sports a stunning 6.67-inch FHD+ curved AMOLED display with an impressive peak brightness of 4,500 nits. It is equipped with a 5,500mAh battery that supports 80W fast charging.

    The Phone is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 SoC and Adreno 720 GPU. It runs on FuntouchOS 14 based on Android 14.

    The smartphone guarantees 2 years of Android updates and 3 years of software updates. On the optics front, the phone comes with a 50MP primary sensor with OIS, and an 8MP ultra-wide lens. There is a 16MP front-facing camera for high-quality selfies and video calls.