America's 'work city' transforms into booming property hotspot: 'Buyers are blown away'
Houston has long been known as America's energy capital and a major hub for oil workers - but there is a new business in town.
A big tech boom is heading to the Texas city, which is now seeking to reinvent itself as a real estate hotspot.
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Geeky Gadgets
16 minutes ago
- Geeky Gadgets
MacOS Privacy Reimagined With Emerging VPN Features in 2025
The current digital landscape is in perpetual flux, with user privacy and data security emerging as paramount concerns for individuals and organizations. As we approach 2025, Apple's macOS is poised to introduce a suite of advanced features meticulously crafted to significantly bolster user privacy, directly addressing the escalating global demand for more robust data protection. These forthcoming enhancements are expected to synergize with cutting-edge Virtual Private Network (VPN) technologies, culminating in a more secure and private online experience for Mac users. A notable increase in data requests from law enforcement agencies and third parties underscores the critical necessity for enhanced privacy safeguards. This pronounced shift towards enhanced privacy is not merely a transient trend but a fundamental recalibration of how users interact with their devices and the broader internet. Anticipated macOS updates, recently unveiled at events like WWDC25, are projected to introduce more granular controls and transparent privacy mechanisms. The integration and evolution of VPNs will undeniably play a pivotal role in this novel privacy paradigm, furnishing Mac users with supplementary layers of security and anonymity. The Escalating Imperative for Digital Privacy In recent years, the demand for digital privacy has surged dramatically as users become acutely aware of how their data is meticulously collected, utilized, and, occasionally, regrettably misused. Numerous high-profile data breaches and disconcerting revelations about pervasive data tracking practices by tech corporations and advertisers have significantly exacerbated these concerns. Many free VPN services, for example, often generate revenue by collecting and selling user data, sometimes even surreptitiously installing trackers or malware. This heightened risk environment has propelled consumers to seek more effective tools and platform features to protect their online activities meticulously. The ongoing development of increasingly sophisticated cyber threats, such as the high-severity double-free vulnerability recently identified in Linux's nftables firewall subsystem (CVE-2024-26809), further underscores the critical necessity for continuous vigilance and pervasive improvements in security measures across all operating systems. MacOS in 2025: A New Epoch for User Privacy Apple has consistently championed privacy as a foundational tenet of its product philosophy, and the newly announced macOS Tahoe 26 for 2025 is expected to deepen this unwavering commitment profoundly. These updates aim to provide users with unprecedented control over their personal information. Features like enhanced clipboard privacy, which will proactively alert users or necessitate explicit permission when applications attempt to access copied data, are a key part of this evolution. While macOS Sequoia 15.5, released in May 2025, primarily focused on typical bug fixes and security patches, it did lay the foundational groundwork by addressing various security flaws and improving features like Screen Time. The WWDC25 keynote in June 2025 provided the first comprehensive details on these significant privacy-centric enhancements. Spotlight on Evolving Security Protocols The bedrock of enhanced digital privacy invariably lies in the inherent strength and sophistication of underlying security protocols. As macOS continues to evolve, so will its robust support for and seamless integration of cutting-edge security standards meticulously designed to protect data in transit and at rest. While Apple typically develops its proprietary security frameworks, the broader tech industry's rapid advancements, such as the increasing global adoption of advanced VPN protocols, dominate the strategic direction of secure communications. The recent patching of multiple critical vulnerabilities in macOS Sequoia 15.5, which could have allowed malicious applications to illicitly access sensitive user data across diverse components, unequivocally highlights the vital importance of robust and meticulously updated security protocols. These ongoing, rigorous efforts ensure that Mac users consistently benefit from formidable protections against emerging threats and increasingly sophisticated attack vectors, contributing significantly to a safer and more secure computing environment. Native VPN Integrations: A Transformative Development? While macOS has long supported VPN configurations, future iterations could potentially witness deeper, more seamless native VPN integrations. Such advancements could simplify the user experience and encourage broader adoption of crucial VPN technology. These integrations might manifest as comprehensive system-level VPN management features, making it considerably easier for users to proactively protect all their internet traffic without necessitating extensive technical expertise. This could seamlessly integrate into Apple's broader strategic vision for greater cross-platform cohesion, as discussed for upcoming versions like iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS Tahoe 26, potentially forging a more unified and inherently secure experience across the entire spectrum of Apple devices. The Pivotal Role of VPNs in Enhanced macOS Privacy Even with Apple's increasingly robust built-in privacy features, VPNs will remain indispensable in providing comprehensive online protection for Mac users. VPNs offer a distinct suite of capabilities that fundamentally transcend what an operating system can typically provide. These include but are not limited to, meticulously masking a user's IP address to effectively prevent pervasive tracking by websites, ubiquitous advertisers, and vigilant Internet Service Providers (ISPs). Furthermore, VPNs encrypt all internet traffic, meticulously securing data from potential interception, a particularly crucial feature when operating on inherently unsecured public Wi-Fi networks. Cybersecurity experts consistently recommend deploying the best VPN for MAC users to protect sensitive data and safeguard online privacy, often citing features such as optimized fast browsing speeds and seamless streaming capabilities. This additional, critical layer of security is essential for users who demand that their online activities, encompassing everything from casual Browse to sensitive financial transactions, remain unequivocally confidential and inherently secure. How VPNs Fortify macOS Security Measures VPNs serve as a potent and invaluable supplement to macOS's inherent security architecture by strategically adding crucial, impenetrable layers of protection. A primary and essential function is the creation of an encrypted tunnel meticulously established between the Mac device and the designated VPN server. This secure tunnel rigorously protects all internet traffic from potential interception, including that from ISPs who might otherwise monitor or illicitly throttle user activity. Many top-tier VPNs also ingeniously incorporate advanced features such as a 'kill switch,' which automatically and instantaneously blocks all internet traffic if the VPN connection unexpectedly drops, preventing accidental data exposure. Furthermore, rigorously enforced 'no-logs' policies, frequently and transparently verified by independent, third-party audits, provide an unassailable assurance that the VPN provider neither collects nor stores any user activity data. Selecting the Optimal VPN for Your Mac Selecting an appropriate VPN for your Mac necessitates meticulous consideration of several critical factors to ensure optimal performance, robust security, and uncompromised privacy. It is essential to seek out a provider with an impeccable reputation, an unequivocally clear no-logs policy (preferably verified by independent audits), and demonstrably robust encryption standards. The sheer number and broad geographical distribution of servers can also be a significant consideration, particularly for users who frequently need to access geo-restricted content from specific regions or who desire faster connection speeds by connecting to geographically proximate servers. Leading VPN providers are consistently noted for their fast speeds, strong encryption, and an extensive array of globally distributed servers, criteria equally applicable to Mac users. Meticulous attention should be paid to the supported protocols, with modern options like WireGuard frequently offering an exemplary balance of speed and security. When diligently evaluating a VPN for macOS, features such as a reliable kill switch, comprehensive DNS leak protection, and specialized servers optimized for specific activities like high-definition streaming or secure torrenting can significantly enhance the overall user experience. Some premium VPNs offer additional security benefits, including integrated ad-blocking or sophisticated malware protection. The availability and demonstrable quality of customer support are also critically important factors worthy of careful consideration. Given the increasing sophistication and pervasive nature of online threats, investing in a reputable paid VPN service is generally and strongly advisable over inherently free alternatives, which frequently come with significant and unacceptable privacy and security compromises. To aid in your selection process, consider this summary of paramount features: Strong encryption (e.g., industry-standard AES-256) (e.g., industry-standard AES-256) Independently audited no-logs policy: Ensures verifiable commitment to user privacy. Ensures verifiable commitment to user privacy. Kill switch functionality: Prevents accidental data exposure if the VPN connection drops. Prevents accidental data exposure if the VPN connection drops. Wide range of server locations: Offers flexibility for geo-unblocking and optimal speeds. Offers flexibility for geo-unblocking and optimal speeds. Fast connection speeds and modern protocols: for efficient data transfer. for efficient data transfer. DNS leak protection: Safeguards against exposure of your actual IP address. Safeguards against exposure of your actual IP address. User-friendly Mac application: Ensures ease of setup and daily operation. Ensures ease of setup and daily operation. Responsive customer support: Assists when needed. Assists when needed. Additional features: Integrated ad/tracker blocking for enhanced online safety. Embracing a More Secure Digital Future with macOS and VPNs The discernible trajectory towards a future of enhanced digital privacy is clear, and macOS is unequivocally positioned to be a pivotal driving force within this transformative movement with its 2025 advancements. These upcoming features, specifically engineered to prioritize greater user control and comprehensive data protection, will collectively establish a stronger native security foundation for Mac users. Nevertheless, VPNs' indispensable role will remain crucial. They consistently offer an additional layer of robust security and unassailable anonymity that flawlessly complements macOS's inherent, built-in protections. The powerful combination of a meticulously privacy-focused operating system and a demonstrably reliable VPN service collectively empowers users to confidently navigate the increasingly complex digital world with significantly enhanced peace of mind. \ Image Credit vee terzy Filed Under: Apple, Guides Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Reuters
29 minutes ago
- Reuters
Morning Bid: No relief from US-China trade truce
A look at the day ahead in European and global markets from Johann M Cherian European investors are set to wake up to a souring mood as rapidly rising tensions in the Middle East and yet another tariff salvo from U.S. President Donald Trump triggered a new wave of dollar-selling and risk-off moves. The much-hyped U.S.-China talks culminated in a fragile truce that may have put a lid on simmering trade tensions between the world's top two economies for now but the lack of details has left investors unnerved. For starters, China President Xi Jinping is yet to give his approval on the 'deal'. And details on how the new tariffs will be implemented are yet to be ironed out and U.S. export restrictions on high-end artificial intelligence chips are still in place. And with the July 8 deadline on worldwide tariffs fast approaching, Trump is back to his unilateral style of policymaking as he said he would send out letters in one to two weeks outlining terms of trade to dozens of other countries, which they could embrace or reject. Markets will be hoping for another TACO moment. While backward looking inflation reports are yet to reflect the price pressures, companies are starting to sound the alarm. Zara-owner Inditex ( opens new tab was the latest to issue a disappointing quarterly report and flag headwinds from trade uncertainty. And as if investors did not have enough to juggle with already, geopolitical tensions in the Middle East are flaring, adding to the risks of rising crude prices fuelling inflation pressures. Supply concerns out of the oil-rich region pushed Brent and West Texas Intermediate futures to two-month highs of nearly $70 a barrel each. In all of this, as my colleague Jamie McGeever points out, valuations in equities and stocks are beginning to appear stretched, compounding the risks to investors in the event of a market selloff. European futures were down 0.7%, while futures in the U.S. are pointing to a lower open on Thursday, but the benchmark indexes in the regions are just about 2% away from their respective record highs. Further, investors continue to question the dollar's safe-haven status. On Thursday, the euro hit a seven-week high and is up 11% this year, poised for its biggest yearly advance since 2017. The central bank bonanza next week could perhaps throw more light on the global economy's outlook. The U.S. Federal Reserve along with the Bank of Japan and the Bank of England are due to announce their policy decisions. Meanwhile, investors will look for a string of UK economic data including reports on gross domestic product and manufacturing output later in the day. Both are expected to reflect a decline in activity on a monthly basis, reigned in by the BoE's cautious approach to monetary policy easing. Key developments that could provide more direction to markets on Thursday: - In the UK: GDP, industrial output, manufacturing output and trade data - In the U.S.: Producer inflation data, initial weekly jobless claims report and an auction of 30-year bonds worth $22 billion - Policymakers expected to speak include ECB's Jose Luis Escriva, Reserve Bank of Australia's David Jacobs - UniCredit ( opens new tab CEO sees slim hopes of BPM ( opens new tab deal, says Commerzbank ( opens new tab too costly - Oracle (ORCL.N), opens new tab raises annual forecast on robust cloud services demand - Warner Bros' (WBD.O), opens new tab credit rating downgraded to junk by Fitch on split-up
Finextra
30 minutes ago
- Finextra
My Big Coin founder fined for crypto fraud
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission today announced the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts entered a final default judgement against Mark Gillespie of Michigan, John Roche of California, My Big Coin Pay, Inc., and My Big Coin, Inc., both of Nevada. 0 This content is provided by an external author without editing by Finextra. It expresses the views and opinions of the author. The order requires Gillespie, My Big Coin Pay, Inc., My Big Coin, Inc., and Roche to pay, jointly and severally a $19,326,324 civil monetary penalty and $6,442,108 in restitution to defrauded victims in connection with their role in a digital asset fraud scheme. The order also imposes a permanent injunction against the defendants and bans them from trading in any CFTC-regulated markets; entering into any transactions involving commodity interests or digital asset commodities; and registering with the CFTC. Case Background The default order finds from at least January 2014 through June 2017, Gillespie, My Big Coin Pay, Inc., My Big Coin, Inc., and Roche, together with co-defendant Randall Crater, one of the other co-defendants named in the CFTC's amended complaint, operated a digital asset scheme in which they fraudulently offered the sale of a fully-functioning virtual currency, My Big Coin (MBC), a commodity in interstate commerce. The CFTC dismissed its enforcement action against named co-defendant Michael Kruger because of his death. The defendants obtained more than $6 million from at least 28 customers through fraudulent solicitations, including false and misleading claims and omissions about MBC's value, usage, and trade status, and that MBC was backed by gold. Crater misappropriated virtually all the money solicited from customers, using those misappropriated funds wrongfully. The order resolves the claims against Gillespie, Roche, My Big Coin Pay, Inc., and My Big Coin, Inc., in the CFTC's enforcement action. [See CFTC Press Release 7678-18] The court had previously entered a consent order resolving the CFTC's claims against Crater, who is currently imprisoned for his role in the scheme. [See CFTC Press Release 9051-25] The CFTC cautions that orders requiring repayment of funds to victims may not result in the recovery of any money lost because the wrongdoers may not have sufficient funds or assets. The CFTC will continue to fight vigorously for the protection of customers and to ensure the wrongdoers are held accountable. Parallel Criminal Action On January 18, 2022, a grand jury returned an eight-count superseding indictment charging Crater with wire fraud, unlawful monetary transactions, and operating an unlicensed money transmitting business based on the same conduct alleged in the CFTC's amended complaint. [United States v. Randall Crater, No. 1:19-cr-10063-DJC (D. Mass. Jan. 18, 2022)).] Crater was found guilty of those charges on July 21, 2022, and was sentenced to 100 months in prison and ordered to pay $7,668,317.50 in restitution to defrauded customers and to forfeit $7,668,317.50, which represented the proceeds he received from his violations. The CFTC appreciates the assistance of the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Massachusetts, the Fraud Section of the U.S. Department of Justice, and the FBI. Division of Enforcement staff responsible for this case are Traci Rodriguez, Daniel Ullman II, Chrystal Gonnella, Dmitriy Vilenskiy, Paul G. Hayeck, and former Division staff members Jonah E. McCarthy, Jason Mahoney, John Einstman, Hillary Van Tassel, Patricia Gomersall, and Kyong J. Koh.
