Latest news with #transparency
Khaleej Times
7 minutes ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Dubai launches world's first system to clearly classify content produced by humans, AI
Dubai has now launched the world's first system to ensure transparency in how research, publications, and content are created. In an announcement on July 16, Sheikh Hamdan approved the launch of the 'Human–Machine Collaboration Icons', a new classification system. "Developed by DubaiFuture, the icons reflect Dubai's commitment to open, responsible, and future-ready innovation, and serve as a new global benchmark in the age of AI. We invite researchers, creators, and institutions worldwide to adopt this system as a new norm for clarity and credibility," said the Crown Prince.
Geeky Gadgets
37 minutes ago
- Geeky Gadgets
The Shocking Truth Behind Tor's OS Spoofing Removal
What happens when the very tools we trust to safeguard our privacy begin to erode that trust? The Tor Project, long heralded as a champion of online anonymity, has sparked outrage among its users after quietly removing a critical feature: operating system (OS) spoofing. This feature once masked users' operating systems, creating a unified 'anonymity set' that made it harder for adversaries to track individuals. But in a move that many see as a betrayal of its core mission, the organization not only eliminated this feature but also denied its removal in an official newsletter—despite evidence to the contrary. For a project built on transparency and user empowerment, this contradiction has left its community reeling, questioning whether the Tor Project is still the privacy advocate it claims to be. Sam Bent provide more insights into the growing rift between the Tor Project and its user base, unpacking the implications of removing OS spoofing and the broader concerns about transparency and accountability. Readers will gain insight into how this change impacts their anonymity, why critics are accusing the organization of gaslighting, and what this controversy reveals about the shifting priorities of privacy-focused tools. At its heart, this is a story about trust—and what happens when it's fractured by the very entities tasked with protecting it. As the dust settles, one question looms large: can the Tor Project regain the confidence of its users, or has it crossed a line it cannot come back from? Tor Browser Privacy Controversy What Is OS Spoofing, and Why Does It Matter? OS spoofing was a feature in the Tor Browser that masked users' operating systems, making it appear as though all users were running Windows. By creating this uniformity, the feature established a consistent 'anonymity set', which reduced the likelihood of users being identified based on their operating systems. This was particularly important in combating tracking and fingerprinting techniques that rely on unique system attributes to identify individuals. In 2025, the Tor Project removed this feature, exposing users' actual operating systems—whether Linux, macOS, Windows, or others—in HTTP headers. The implications for privacy are far-reaching: Users are now categorized by their real operating systems, fragmenting the anonymity set and reducing collective protection. Adversaries can more easily identify users through passive fingerprinting , which analyzes system-specific attributes such as OS type. , which analyzes system-specific attributes such as OS type. Those using less common operating systems face heightened risks, as their systems stand out in server logs and tracking data. For a tool designed to safeguard anonymity, this change represents a significant concern, particularly for users who rely on Tor to protect their privacy in high-risk environments. Confusion and Contradictions: The Tor Project's Response The controversy intensified when the Tor Project addressed the issue in a newsletter, claiming that OS spoofing had not been removed and was 'here to stay.' This statement directly contradicted developer documentation and discussions on GitLab, where the removal of OS spoofing was explicitly outlined. Critics argue that the organization misrepresented the change, framing it as a 'harmonization' rather than acknowledging the elimination of a critical privacy feature. Adding to the confusion, the removal was not widely communicated to users. Instead, it was buried in technical release notes and developer discussions, leaving many unaware of the change. This lack of transparency has led to accusations that the Tor Project deliberately avoided open dialogue, undermining user trust and informed consent. For an organization that champions privacy and user empowerment, this approach has been widely criticized as inconsistent with its stated values. Tor Project Just Gaslit Their Entire User Base Watch this video on YouTube. Advance your skills in privacy by reading more of our detailed content. Privacy Risks and Erosion of Trust The removal of OS spoofing has broader implications for both user privacy and trust in the Tor Project. By exposing users' operating systems, the change undermines a core principle of anonymity: uniformity. Without this feature, users are more vulnerable to tracking and identification, particularly those using less common systems that stand out in data logs. The incident has also drawn attention to the role of Privacy Guides, a nonprofit organization that advises on privacy tools. Privacy Guides defended the Tor Project's decision, claiming the change had minimal impact on user privacy. However, critics argue that this stance downplays the significance of the issue and contributes to misinformation. The situation highlights the need for independent scrutiny and accountability for organizations that position themselves as privacy advocates. Concerns About Organizational Priorities The OS spoofing controversy is part of a broader pattern of behavior that raises questions about the Tor Project's organizational priorities. Critics have accused the organization of focusing more on fundraising efforts than addressing user concerns transparently. Additionally, the Tor Project has expressed a desire to discourage users from modifying browser settings, further limiting user choice and control. These actions suggest a shift away from empowering users to make informed decisions about their privacy. Instead, the organization appears to be centralizing control, a move that some argue contradicts the open source and privacy-first ethos upon which the Tor Project was founded. This perceived shift in priorities has led to growing skepticism among users and privacy advocates alike. What This Means for Users For those who rely on the Tor Browser to protect their anonymity, the removal of OS spoofing and the subsequent miscommunication represent a significant breach of trust. This incident underscores the importance of critically evaluating the tools and organizations that claim to prioritize privacy. Users concerned about their anonymity should consider the following steps: Stay informed about updates to privacy tools and assess how changes may impact your security and anonymity. Explore alternative tools and projects that emphasize transparency and user choice. Advocate for greater accountability and open communication from privacy-focused organizations. By taking these steps, users can better protect their privacy and hold organizations accountable for their actions. The Path Forward The Tor Project faces a critical juncture in its relationship with its user base. To rebuild trust, the organization must prioritize transparency, clear communication, and a renewed focus on empowering users. Acknowledging past missteps and committing to open dialogue will be essential in restoring confidence among its community. As the debate over OS spoofing and organizational priorities continues, users are encouraged to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding their privacy. The incident serves as a reminder that even trusted tools and organizations must be held to high standards of accountability. Media Credit: Sam Bent Filed Under: Technology News, Top News 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. 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Yahoo
4 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Glenbrook Questions the Unexplained and Abrupt Departure of Tejon CFO
Recent Form 8-K Filing Indicates that Tisch and Bielli Led Board Has Learned Nothing about Disclosure and Transparency from the Company's Recent Proxy Fight Urges Tejon Ranch's Board of Directors to Disclose Full Details Surrounding Brett Brown's Departure Calls on Tejon's Independent Directors to Follow the Recommendations of Leading Proxy Advisory Firms in Adopting PFS Trusts Shareholder Proposal that Received 49.3% of the Vote PALO ALTO, Calif., July 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Glenbrook Capital Management ("Glenbrook" or "we"), a long-time shareholder of Tejon Ranch Co. (NYSE: TRC) ("Tejon" or the "Company") with more than 300,000 shares of Tejon, made the following statement regarding the unexplained departure on July 11, 2025 of CFO Brett A. Brown. Grover Wickersham, Chairman of Glenbrook stated: "There has been no press release or public disclosure other than the statement in a Form 8-K late last Friday that Mr. Brown 'separated from employment.' This raises more questions than answers, leaving us disappointed by the Tisch-led board's apparent continuing disregard for public shareholders. The Form 8-K Friday minimally announced Brett Brown's abrupt departure as Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, providing no reason or context for the sudden exit of its second most senior executive. Mr. Brown was Tejon's sole senior executive with an SEC compliance background and his contributions to Tejon should not be overlooked. At Glenbrook, we were impressed by Mr. Brown's origination of a very favorable Farm Credit loan on behalf of Tejon, his participation at investor conferences and his improvements to Tejon's financial disclosure, such as better illuminating G & A expenses. The shareholders deserve to know why Mr. Brown 'separated from employment.' Shareholders are left to wonder if there is fire where there is smoke. If Mr. Brown's exit was related to disagreements over Tejon company policies, operations, or accounting practices – such as failing to take an impairment charge for the obscenely mismanaged Centennial project, then shareholders have the right to know. We believe e SEC disclosure requirements provide that such issues be disclosed fully and promptly. Tejon's trademark lack of transparency on such an important development only serves to erode the Company's dwindling supply of shareholder trust. For this reason, we again urge the independent directors to retain independent counsel to advise them on changing course. Tejon's public shareholders control the majority of Tejon's outstanding shares. Transparency is essential to building shareholder trust, especially in light of the calls for increased disclosure during the recent proxy contest. Implementing PFS Trust's shareholder proposal, which we called on the Board to implement in May, would allow Tejon shareholders owning a combined 10% of outstanding shares to call a special meeting of shareholders. That proposal, combined with adequate disclosure around Mr. Brown's departure, would go a long way to salvage what little shareholder trust remains. This underscores the vital importance of Tejon shareholders having the ability to hold the Board and management accountable. We once again call on the independent directors to implement the PFS Trust shareholder proposal, which was overwhelmingly supported by Tejon's public shareholders, and to immediately and transparently disclose further details of Mr. Brown's departure and clearly communicate plans to cover the crucial function that he served." Media Contact:ASC AdvisorsTaylor IngrahamPartner, ASC Advisorstingraham@ 203-992-1230 Investor Contact:Richard RudgleyPresident, Glenbrook Capital Management richard@ Grover WickershamChairman, Glenbrook Capital Management415-601-1111 Disclaimer and Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking StatementsThis press release does not constitute an offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities described herein in any state to any person. The information herein contains "forward-looking statements." Specific forward-looking statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts and include, without limitation, words such as "may," "will," "expects," "believes," "anticipates," "plans," "estimates," "projects," "potential," "targets," "forecasts," "seeks," "could," "should" or the negative of such terms or other variations on such terms or comparable terminology. Similarly, statements that describe our objectives, plans or goals are forward-looking. Forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties and assumptions. There can be no assurance that any idea or assumption herein is, or will be proven, correct or that any of the objectives, plans or goals stated herein will ultimately be undertaken or achieved. If one or more of such risks or uncertainties materialize, or if Glenbrook underlying assumptions prove to be incorrect, the actual results may vary materially from outcomes indicated by these statements. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be regarded as a representation by Glenbrook that the future plans, estimates or expectations contemplated will ever be achieved. View original content: SOURCE Glenbrook Capital Management Sign in to access your portfolio
News24
5 hours ago
- Politics
- News24
Under pressure, Trump urges Bondi to release ‘whatever she thinks is credible' on Jeffrey Epstein
US President Donald Trump asked the US Justice Department to release information on Jeffrey Epstein. Trump is under pressure from his base over his handling of the case. Daughter-in-law Lara Trump called for 'more transparency' from the administration. US President Donald Trump said Tuesday the US Justice Department should release all 'credible' information from its probe into notorious sex criminal Jeffrey Epstein as he sought to douse a firestorm of criticism from his supporters over his handling of the case. Trump is facing the most serious split of his political career from his famously loyal right-wing base over suspicions that his administration is covering up lurid details of Epstein's crimes to protect rich and powerful figures they say are implicated. 'The attorney general has handled that very well,' the Republican leader said of Pam Bondi, who leads the Justice Department, when he was asked about the case at the White House. Trump repeated his claim that the Epstein files were 'made up' by his Democratic predecessors in the White House - even though he said multiple times during the election campaign that he would 'probably' release them. 'She's handled it very well, and it's going to be up to her,' Trump said. 'Whatever she thinks is credible, she should release.' Trump's latest comments mark a softening of his stance - he had voiced frustration in the Oval Office and online about his supporters' fixation on Epstein and pleaded with them to move on. 'I don't understand why the Jeffrey Epstein case would be of interest to anybody,' Trump told reporters on Tuesday night. It's pretty boring stuff. Donald Trump The president's 'Make America Great Again' (MAGA) movement has long held as an article of faith that 'Deep State' elites are protecting Epstein's most powerful associates in the Democratic Party and Hollywood. Trump has faced growing outrage since his administration effectively shut down Epstein-related conspiracy theories, which have become MAGA obsessions. The Justice Department and FBI said in a memo made public earlier this month there is no evidence that the disgraced financier kept a 'client list' or was blackmailing powerful figures. They also dismissed the claim that Epstein was murdered in jail, confirming his death by suicide, and said they would not be releasing any more information on the probe. Laura Cavanaugh and Handout/various sources/AFP It marked the first time Trump's officials had publicly refuted the stories - pushed for years by numerous right-wing figures, notably including the FBI's top two officials, before Trump hired them. Beyond angering supporters, the issue has opened a schism within his administration, sparking a fiery blow-up between Bondi and Deputy FBI Director Dan Bongino, who is said to be considering resigning. Trump's attempts to take the sting out of the controversy have largely failed, with far right influencers continuing to criticise him online. Even his daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, a Fox News host, has called for 'more transparency' from the administration. Trump's most powerful ally in the US Congress, House Speaker Mike Johnson, pushed on Tuesday for the administration to release more information about the case, and his stance has been echoed by multiple Republicans. 'We should put everything out there and let the people decide,' he told MAGA influencer Benny Johnson's internet show, calling on Bondi to 'come forward and explain' apparent discrepancies in her statements about the case. Bondi told Fox News in February a list of Epstein clients was on her desk for review, before backtracking and saying that no such list existed. Epstein died by suicide in a New York prison in 2019 after being charged with sex trafficking. Trump - who has denied visiting the US Virgin Islands home where prosecutors say Epstein sex trafficked underage girls - said ahead of his election he would have 'no problem' releasing files related to the case. Asked whether Bondi had told him if his name appeared in a file related to Epstein, Trump said 'no', adding that Bondi has 'given us just a very quick briefing'.
Yahoo
5 hours ago
- Politics
- Yahoo
Trump says US attorney general should release any 'credible' information on Epstein
US President Donald Trump has said Attorney General Pam Bondi should release "whatever she thinks is credible" on sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, as he faces a rare backlash from supporters after seeking to draw a line under the case. Bondi has been lambasted by some of Trump's political base after she said last week there was no evidence that Epstein kept a "client list" or was blackmailing powerful figures. At the weekend Trump urged supporters not to "waste time and energy" on the controversy. But allies of the president, including House of Representatives Speaker Mike Johnson, are calling for "transparency". Epstein's 2019 death in a US prison while awaiting federal trial was ruled a suicide. But many in Trump's Make America Great Again (Maga) movement have theorised that details of the well-connected convicted paedophile's crimes have been withheld in order to protect influential figures, or intelligence agencies. On Tuesday, Trump praised his attorney general's handling of the matter, saying: "She's handled it very well, and it's going to be up to her. Whatever she thinks is credible, she should release." When asked by a journalist if the attorney general had told Trump whether his name appeared in any of the records, he said: "No, no." Later on Tuesday, the president again called for the release of "credible" information, but he questioned the enduring fascination with the Epstein case, calling it "sordid but boring". "Only really bad people, including the fake news, want to keep something like this going," Trump said. Who was Jeffrey Epstein? Last week he vented frustration in the Oval Office about the fixation on Epstein and urged everyone to move on. But some Republican allies of the president are not letting go of the matter. In an interview on Tuesday with US conservative commentator Benny Johnson, Speaker Johnson said that he trusted President Trump and his team, and that the White House was privy to facts that he did not know. But he said Bondi "needs to come forward and explain it to everybody". "We should put everything out there and let the people decide," Johnson said in an interview. Georgia congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene told Benny Johnson in a separate interview on Tuesday: "I fully support transparency on this issue." She praised Bondi's work as attorney general, but said that leaders and elected officials should keep their promises to voters. Another conservative Republican, Lauren Boebert of Colorado, said if more Epstein files were not released, a special counsel should be appointed to investigate the financier's crimes. Senator John Kennedy of Louisiana said the voters expect more accountability. "I think it's perfectly understandable that the American people would like to know who he [Epstein] trafficked those women to and why they weren't prosecuted," Kennedy told NBC News. But other influential Republicans – including Senator John Thune and congressman Jim Jordan – deferred to President Trump on the matter. At an unrelated news conference on fentanyl on Tuesday, Bondi brushed aside questions about the controversy. "Nothing about Epstein," she told reporters. "I'm not going to talk about Epstein." She said last week's memo by the Department of Justice, jointly released with the FBI, declining to release any further files on Epstein and confirming his death by suicide, "speaks for itself". Bondi told Fox News in February that a list of Epstein clients was on her desk for review, before her spokesman said last week she had actually been referring to overall files in the case. The government's findings were made, according to the memo, after reviewing more than 300 gigabytes of data. On Tuesday, House Democratic lawmakers tried unsuccessfully to force a vote on releasing Epstein files. Republicans pointed out the administration of President Joe Biden, a Democrat, also had access to the files, but did not release them. US justice department finds no Epstein 'client list' US attorney general presses FBI to release all files on Epstein Follow the twists and turns of Trump's second term with North America correspondent Anthony Zurcher's weekly US Politics Unspun newsletter. Readers in the UK can sign up here. Those outside the UK can sign up here.
