There are some important privacy and security issues that I wanted to share right now to help you become more bulletproof. Please watch my video, and/or read my summary below.
I explain the issues more in the video, but if you want a quick synopsis, here goes…
FIRST, if you have any Apple products, it’s very important that you update the operating system ASAP. This includes Mac computers, iPhone, iPad, etc.
Apple has found a vulnerability in its operating system that allows other people to remotely take over your device. This is a very dangerous bug, so update immediately.
SECOND, as I’ve said many times, you should not have social media apps on your phone, especially TikTok. Each of these apps has a built-in browser, so if you click on a link within the app, you go to the website within the TikTok app. When do follow these links, TikTok can see EVERY site you go to, EVERYTHING you do, and EVERY keystroke you type.
So, for example, let’s say you go to your online banking website and enter your username and password. TikTok now knows your password. Facebook and LinkedIn also have built-in browsers and can do the same thing.
THIRD, do you use the LastPass Password Manager? DON’T! Password managers are the most important tool for security that you can use, but LastPass can not be relied upon. Why? I explain the details in the video. I recommend Bitwarden instead.
FOURTH, Denver citizens are learning how the global elite are putting the systems in place to control us. As Denver7 reports, “During the dog days of summer, it’s important to keep your home cool. But when thousands of Xcel customers in Colorado tried adjusting their thermostats Tuesday, they learned they had no control over the temperatures in their own homes.”
This is the result of smart devices in our homes. By using smart devices you cede control of your privacy and freedom to Big Tech and Big Brother (which are the same thing). They have been planning this for a LONG time!
For freedom sake, it’s very important that we resist this movement, get rid of all smart devices and learn to become more self-sufficient.
Freedom is your God-Given Right. Privacy is also your God-Given Right!
Take care of yourself.
Glenn
Paul says
How can I check to see if Alexa is running anything in my home? I have not signed up for anything like that but you never know.
Glenn Meder says
Do you have an Alexa? If so, I recommend that you get rid of it. Remember, the Alexa is specifically designed to spy on you and steal your data.
Willie says
Hi. For my iPad, do you mean updating to iPadOS 15.6.1?
I’m now on iPad 15.3
Should I select “Automatic updates”?
Should I always update to the latest operating system?
Thank you.
Willie Lieske
Glenn Meder says
Yes. to all
carol says
Hi Glenn,
can you do a deep dive into security / privacy / protection in the crypto space?
thank you!
Glenn Meder says
Hi Carol. Yes, we did one recently. Here’s the link: https://privacyactionplan.com/special-event-live-crypto-qa-webinar-replay/
Margaret says
Thank you Glenn – I have avoided any updates for a year or more because there are always more changes than expected and no info on what’s going to work differently. This time I went ahead and accepted the IOS update for my iPad, and now in addition to constant interruptions by the “Complete Apple ID” window, I’m now also getting repeated “opportunities” to complete the Face ID & Password process. How do I delete that possibility off of my iPad?
Glenn Meder says
I know that many people say not to install updates, but it is very important to do so from a security point of view. Apple has a closed operating system so we don’t really know what info they take anyway, and such surveillance would already be built into the phone. My point is, Apple can already get your data and the only way to stop them from getting it is to move to a de-googled android phone, such as Calyx. The security updates are to protect you from hackers.
Regarding your FaceID, you can not enable that in the security settings, but you should definitely enable a password for your device.
Brigitte Kerrutt says
Thanks for this vital information.
In the video you start with mentioning MAC. In the written part Mac is not mentioned, instead you start with Apple. Is it both?
Glenn Meder says
Good catch Brigitte! Yes, I meant to say all Apple products; Mac, iphone, ipad, etc.
Anne says
I wonder if updating Apple products will have the opposite effect. Perhaps they are creating access for themselves. How can we know what the updates actually entail? Someone mentioned that we should not update. The old damned if we do; damned if we don’t.
Glenn Meder says
Hi Anne, I know that many people say not to install updates, but it is very important to do so from a security point of view. Apple has a closed operating system so we don’t really know what info they take anyway, and such surveillance would already be built into the phone. My point is, Apple can already get your data and the only way to stop them from getting it is to move to a de-googled android phone, such as Calyx. The security updates are to protect you from hackers.
Debbie says
Hello Glenn, what is your suggestion for Apple computers if they are older and can’t be updated to the most recent OS? Thank you.
Glenn Meder says
Hi Debbie, you are definitely taking a risk by using those products that can’t be updated. Sorry to say.
Marina says
Question: I bought a Samsung stove that has the ability to be connected to my phone via Bluetooth. I didn’t connect it and don’t have a plan of doing it. There is a web address of this connection on a list of available networks. Am I in control of this stove or it could happen something like in Denver? Is it possible to disable the Bluetooth connection on the stove?
The same question I have about the window air conditioner that I just bought. It has the capability to be connected to a phone via some app. I didn’t install the app and I’m not planning to do it. Is anyone can mess around with the temperature of my air conditioner?
Thank you in advance for your insights.
Marina
Glenn Meder says
I don’t know if this functionality can be disabled. You’d have to look at the instructions of the device or call a local appliance repair person and talk to them.
Judith Bucholz says
I am a PAP member and appreciate your guidance and vigilance regarding this.
Glenn Meder says
You’re welcome!
Jessica says
Your message is perfect timing! I am currently getting estimates for new HVAC system and some proposals include the ecobee thermostat. I knew I did not want a smart thermostat and your message confirms my decision!!!
Thank you!
Glenn Meder says
Great decision. Keep it dumb!
karen says
Hi Glenn, Thank you for this information.
Could you please give some examples of smart devices in the home? I do try to avoid them already but am not sure what they all might be. I have heard that some appliances have chips built into them that can spy on us. I don’t have WIFI and I know to avoid smart tv’s because they are labled, but not sure of what else.
Thank you so much.
Glenn Meder says
Hi Karen. They are trying to make everything “smart” nowadays. Your thermastat, security systems, refrigerators, etc. Definitely get rid of Alexa, Google Home, or anything like that. Don’t have a Roomba, because those steal your data and your floorplan. SmartTVs of course. Ring doorbells. Smart speakers. Microwaves. Coffee makers. Etc.
Even smart lightbulbs. Smart light bulbs can be hacked to get into your secure WIFI network.
Keep it dumb!