#Software Localization Tricks

[mi6-cafe]

How to make a moodboard workshop

Are you interested in Last Moodboard Artist Standing but have never created a moodboard before? Or maybe you want to brush up with some tips and tricks from creators in the fandom? Great news! @ato-the-bean and KittenKin will be running a workshop for you.

Join us in the MI6 Cafe Discord on April 26th at 11am PST (Your local time here). No specific software is required, although they suggest coming prepared with some images for inclusion and a gmail account if you want to follow along with the Adobe express portion.

Discord invite link

[quads004]

Please Start Archiving in the US

With current events, I think it is prudent that everyone, that is able to, needs start archiving shit. I am a former library worker but I do not know much about cybersecurity. If you do want to go down that route please research and keep you and your archive safe :). The more copies that are preserved, then the more likely it is that the media will survive. Even if you save only 2 files that is still important!

First, I will list how to create an computer archive and best practices, then I will provide a list of known targets and suggested materials to add.

You need somewhere to store your data most people will use their computer's storage drive but you need to have backups! Do not rely on cloud storage solutions, they require internet connection are vulnerable to data breaches, and the companies that store that data must follow any laws that the government may decide to pass. USBs or external hardrives are best options. CDs can be used in a pinch, but are more likely to degrade as well as having lower storage capacity then the previous options. Use whatever you have lying around, you do not need to spend money if you don't want to.

When saving data use file formats that are common and able to be read without use of a special software. (that means no .docx) PDF/A is the gold standard for archiving. It is a subtype of pdf that contains metadata, such as typefaces and graphical info, that ensure the files are read properly in the future. Adobe Acrobat is able to save and convert documents into PDF/A. PDFTron, DocuPub, and Ghostscript are all free or have free versions that create pdf/a files. PNG, JPEG2000, .txt, MP3, wav, are other common file types that the Smithsonian recommends for data storage. For a full list of types to use and avoid, see the sources cited at the bottom.

What are we archiving?

Please gather both fiction and nonfiction resources. Nonfiction collection ideas: Current news clips, local history of marginalized communities, interviews, biographies, memoirs, zines, and art pieces. Saving scientific research is incredibly important! In 1933, one of the first places they targeted was the Institute of Sexual Science. Lots of what was stored there was never recovered. Environmental science, trans and intersex health, and minority history will likely be targeted first. For fiction, the most commonly challenged books last year were: 1) GenderQueer by Maia Kobabe 2) All Boys Aren't Blue by George Johnson 3) This Book is Gay by Juno Dawson 4) The of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky 5) Flamer by Mike Curato 6) The Bluest Eyes by Toni Morrison 7) Me and Earl and the Dying Girl by Jesse Andrews 8) Tricks by Ellen Hopkins 9) Let's Talk about it (Teen guide to sex, relationships, and being a human) by Erika Moen and Matthew Nolan 10) Sold by Patricia McCormick I present this list so you have an idea of what is normally targeted. Books that describe racism and queer identities are most common, but other targets include any depictions of violence, drugs, sex. Use your personal archive to accumulate data that you personally are passionate about. The more niche a topic the more likely it is that other people will not have it in their storage.

Lastly, please remember as an archivist you are not there to determine if a piece is worthy of being saved. Just because you do not like or agree with the message does not mean it will be saved from being banned. All artworks amateur or professional are worthy of being archived.

Sources: ALA 2023 Banned Books https://www.ala.org/bbooks/frequentlychallengedbooks/top10

How to create a PDF/A file https://www.research.gov/common/attachment/Desktop/How_do_I_create_a_PDF-A_file.pdf

Smithsonian Data Management Best Practices and File Formats https://siarchives.si.edu/what-we-do/digital-curation/recommended-preservation-formats-electronic-records https://library.si.edu/research/best-practices-storing-archiving-and-preserving-data

[ui-alcoholic]

One of the most defining 16bit computers was introduced in June 1985.

ATARI ST 520

DESIGN HISTORY & STRATEGY

The Atari ST series was born in a turbulent time: Atari had just been acquired by Jack Tramiel, founder of Commodore, after leaving that company. Tramiel pushed for a quick-to-market product to compete with the Apple Macintosh and Commodore Amiga.

Development time: Less than one year — an aggressive schedule for a 16-bit GUI-based machine.

Initial models: The Atari 520ST was the first to ship, showcased at CES in 1985.

Innovative design: All-in-one casing (mainboard + keyboard), like the Amiga 500, but with better modularity (external floppy drive, monitor, etc.).

Former C=64 developer Shiraz Shivji led the design team. He tells a story about the Atari ST/Commodore Amiga history (source) "It is very interesting that the Warner Atari difficulties were due to Tramiel’s Commodore. The Commodore 64 was much more successful (I would say wildly successful) compared to the Atari Computers such as the 800 and the 400. We were also taking away sales from the video games division, the Atari 2600. Jay Miner was at Atari in the old days and was involved in the design of their products. He left Atari to design the Amiga. Atari had funded some of this effort and had an option to buy the Amiga. When we took over Atari in July 1984, the first order of business was to decide what to do with this option. The problem was that the Amiga was not quite ready and would need a lot of money to acquire. We decided to pass on Amiga, but this put enormous pressure on our own development team. Commodore, on the other hand, did not have an internally developed 32-bit graphics-oriented machine and did not have the confidence to develop the machine internally. They ended up buying Amiga for between $25-$30 million and spent a further $20 million or so and yet came out with a product a little after Atari. The roles were reversed, the Atari ST has a Commodore pedigree, while the Amiga has an Atari pedigree!"

MIDI AND MUSIC PRODUCTION

The 520ST included built-in MIDI ports — a revolutionary move. At the time, most other computers needed expensive third-party MIDI interfaces.

Key Software:

Steinberg Cubase – became the industry standard for MIDI sequencing.

Notator – early version of what later evolved into Logic Pro.

Pro 24, Dr. T's, and Hollis Trackman – widely used for composing, sequencing, and syncing synthesizers.

Used by Artists:

Fatboy Slim composed with the ST well into the 2000s.

Jean-Michel Jarre, Vangelis, The Chemical Brothers, and Underworld used it in studio setups.

Many studios kept an Atari ST just for MIDI due to its tight timing and reliability.

SOFTWARE ECOSYSTEM

TOS/GEM: A fast and responsive GUI OS that was very usable on 512KB of RAM.

Productivity apps:

Calamus DTP – high-quality desktop publishing

NeoDesk – an improved desktop GUI

GFA Basic – a powerful programming environment

Graphics tools:

Degas Elite, NeoChrome – pixel art, animation

Spectrum 512 – used clever tricks to display 512 colors

While the Amiga had better graphics and sound, many games were first developed for the ST, then ported to Amiga. Key games:

Dungeon Master – first-person RPG with real-time mechanics

Carrier Command, Starglider, Blood Money, Rick Dangerous

Flight simulators, strategy, and adventure games flourished

CULTURAL IMPACT

In Europe (especially the UK, Germany, France, and Hungary):

The ST became a cornerstone of bedroom coding, Demoscene, and music production.

Local software houses and users created a vibrant community around the machine.

The Atari ST was used in schools, small studios, and households well into the early '90s.

In education: The ST's affordability and easy-to-use software made it a favorite in European schools and computer labs.

DECLINE & LEGACY

By the early 1990s, the ST line was losing ground to IBM-compatible PCs and faster Amigas.

Later models like the STE, TT030, and Falcon 030 tried to revitalize the line, with limited success.

Atari shifted toward consoles (like the Jaguar) and left the computer market.

Long-term legacy:

The Atari ST's MIDI legacy lives on — it helped standardize digital music production workflows.

Many musicians and retrocomputing fans still collect and use STs today.

A vibrant retro software/demo scene remains active, especially in Europe.

[feyspeaker]

Hi! I made an account just so I could follow your work. Your art is brilliant and honestly and inspiration to where I want to be. I’m an older artist who has all the anxiety when it comes to improving my process. I’m trying to get into digital portraits and I have so many ideas in my head, but it’s frustrating because I’m not where I want to be to make this happen. What are some tricks that help you/software do you use? Of course, you don’t have to share anything that makes you uncomfortable. I currently have procreate and an iPad, but I feel a little lost. Wondering if I need a different writing tablet and photoshop. Not sure. I just eventually want to find that 3D, but also artistic look you are able to achieve.

hey there! thank you so much!!

ultimately, I will sound like a broken record but I always recommend you sign up for local figure drawing or painting classes. have people pose for you at home and sketch with charcoal and paper. go to the zoo and sit down in front on an exhibit for an hour and try to draw the animals in front of you as fast as you can and fill a couple of pages, move on to a new exhibit and do it again!

nothing is more powerful of a tool to learn than whatever writing utensil you have in your purse and the back of a napkin when you see something you'd like to capture. I've spent quite frankly my entire rememberable life doing this. I used to spend every single day in middle school/high school/my brief failed stint in community college with a pack of cheap sharpies and a beat up binder full of old worksheets and homework to draw on the backs of.

drawing/painting from life will teach you better than anything.

I use a very outdated version of Photoshop, and only got a "nice" tablet in the past 7 months.

Also, a huge tip to you and anyone else reading this: do NOT get too focused on a "style" that you want. Obsessing over that just ruined me for years and years. I wanted so, so, so badly to be the next Matsuri Hino when I was a kid. I copied her work religiously and it NEVER looked right. Frustrated me to no end. And you know why my stuff never looked like hers? Because I'm not her! You can't force your art to come out any way that isn't natural, and the sooner you can accept the art your hand wants to create, the happier you'll be and the easier art will get for you.

The past couple of years before I started diving into this more realism based work, I was just shoving myself through trying to make what art I envied of others. Very stylized/textured watercolor comic book style stuff. And I just was NOT getting any better at it. I have always been more inclined toward realism work, but I've hated it and yearned for stylized work. Yoshitaka Amano? God, I just drooled over that artstyle and beat myself up for never being able to capture it in studies or otherwise.

I finally essentially restructured my entire career around making the art that makes me happy instead of what I "wanted" it to look like. I was extremely depressed, my life was falling apart, and I still needed to make art to survive but I couldn't "art" if I was depressed and hated doing it, so I just had to step back and stop worrying so much about what I thought I wanted to make, and started making what felt most natural.

there's no easy way, and art can be a soul destroying path at times, truly. your software and hardware should come very last place compared to practicing from life (it doesn't matter if you want to paint cartoony stuff of realistic stuff, always start from life). naturally you will find what makes your heart sing the most.

I get a lot of messages from people telling me similar stuff "oh your art is EXACTLY what I want to do!" but I promise you that kind of thought process is chasing a dragon that is likely to harm or drag your creative process down. art style is such a deeply personal thing, so of COURSE it's important to find inspiration, but the second looking at someone else's artwork stops inspiring you and starts frustrating you, put it away.

There are some artists who I love, that I do not check up on often because their artwork ignites, like, serious bitter jealousy in me. It's the truth. I get so mad at myself for not being more like them, and it's such a poison. I think more artists should be transparent about this feeling because I KNOW the art community has a lot of jealousy and ugliness in it.

A fact of being an artist is that you will never be completely happy with a piece you make. You are always going to see the flaws, and that doesn't change whether you'd been drawing for 2 months or 20 years. Occasionally, you will get one piece that you are like "how did I make that???" and then get frustrated that you can't recreate it lol! It's a tough beast.

It's just really important to step back and work on yourself and where you are at, because at the end of the day, the way your soul wants to express artwork might be WILDLY different from what your brain wants, and it can be really detrimental to let those two go to war.

I hope this helps. I'm very passionate about this, and when I started out I ALWAYS ignored the artists who gave the same exact tips as above. I thought they were so annoying and unhelpful, but now I /get it/.

[programmingandmass]

16. office AU setting!

16. office AU setting.

Graduation into full time work for Chihiro should have meant the flowering of his programming talents to their best application. It should have meant the transformation of his accomplishments from virtuosic tricks to the actual improvement of the lives of others. It should have been, but that didn't happen.

That wasn't so bad, though!

To tell the truth, Chihiro didn't like the idea of starting his own business. He wanted to do something he was good at--work on projects, not lead or direct them.

He also didn't necessarily want to work on anything important in a team environment. Chihiro obviously wasn't conflict prone, but he didn't want to take instructions from someone he almost certainly knew better than. This meant that if Chihiro was doing anything important, he would do it on his own at his own pace.

Yet bills still had to be paid.

So it came to be that Chihiro took an entry level position. Something undemanding. A job like that in software where Chihiro lived was like a unicorn, but he didn't necessarily appreciate that aspect. What he appreciated was that he could have his own cubicle, work there all day, and then go back to his own apartment with his own work. He was very busy, but much of it was thankfully confined to a routine.

Thankfully.

Like he was wherever he went, he was beloved in his office. As such, he was frequently left sweets and snacks at his desk by doting coworkers. Chihiro didn't realize that this was actually a curse, like his day job itself. Not literally, of course, but figuratively. Office workers are like ants in the sense that they crowd around large accumulations of sugar and food. They're like bees in the way they proliferate sweets among their surroundings.

Chihiro, the delicate flower he was, never stood a chance against their attentions.

Every day would alternate between some occasion, no matter how obscure, or a "just because." All sufficient excuses to leave treats and offerings at Chihiro's otherwise sparse workspace. He would graciously accept all of them, and eat them too. He was ignorant of an important principle: one can accept food but not eat the whole thing.

One does not grow fat on treats alone. A whole hour of lunch was probably too much for Chihiro. Eager to participate a little bit with his coworkers, but a little unimaginative, he would go out to lunch at any of the local cafes and fast food places every. Single. Day. That is what really adds up.

Replacing clothes was one thing. The move to XS to S felt natural, even something to be proud of for one who had a complicated relationship with his own petite stature. S to M, normal enough. M to L, a little bit disconcerting. Then the X's came back. Not only that, they started to multiply. That's when Chihiro truly became concerned. Yet the treats didn't slow down, neither did the lunches.

The fruits of all this came on a day like any other. Chihiro rolled out of bed to the sound of his alarm, dangling his pudgy legs over the edge to collect his breath before pushing himself to a standing position.

Then, he waddled over to pull on his clothes. It was all feeling snug again. That made him wince as he fastened each button on his shirt. He didn't even want to know which X he would graduate to next. Something had to put an end to this. When he got that finished, his breathing had already turned into a pant. He glanced in the mirror. Nothing looked like it was tearing apart at the seams, at least. Still, the sleeves of his shirt hugged his heavy arms, and his second chin hung over his collar.

An energy drink was his breakfast every morning. He would sip from it pensively on the train to work. He had to sit down on the train, his legs just couldn't stand for that long, but he was never happy about it. He could always feel his wide bottom extending over the division between seats, his gut shaking in his lap. He could also spy the occasional dirty or pitiful glare. Before his stop, he would always brace himself and grab a nearby rod, tugging to get himself upright so he can squeeze through the aisle and out of the car. He would pant "sorry" and "excuse me" with every breath.

Stairs were a no-go, so the elevator would take him to the floor where he worked. Then he would start his progress to his cubicle. He wore his cardigan more often now. He would start to sweat at this point in his morning "exercise" and that did a better job of hiding it.

He sat at his desk, squeezing his rump between the arms of the chair. It creaked ominously beneath Chihiro's girth, but he tried to pay it no mind, instead booting his work PC. The chair's sighing was the signal that he arrived, and so the first of his coworkers came.

'Oh, Fujisaki-san, I didn't see you come in! I was at the market last night and they had these on sale, I thought: Oh Fujisaki would just love this!'

She presented him with a package of sugar cookies. Great. He took it, opening it pu.

"O-oh! Thank you... I'll have to put it out in the erm... The brake room, late--"

'Oh no no no no no no no. No. I already got something for the rest of the office. This is yours.'

"That's really sweet..." Chihiro smiled. His coworker continued to stare.

'The cookies are too.' Her gaze was expectant. Chihiro chuckled.

"Right..." He opened the clamp, picked up one of the frosted cookies and took a bite.

'Have a good day!' She left him alone, and he dispatched with the rest of it by pressing it into his mouth. Almost by habit he took a second one by the time the next coworker came. Then the next one. And the next one. Then the one after that.

"Ugh..." Chihiro was already feeling full. He was trying to focus on his work, but the pile of wrappers and packages on his desk was bothering him. He rolled over to it, the structure of the chair squeaking and complaining the way over. Bit by bit, he leaned over to toss each article in the trash.

He leaned back when the mess was clean. That was the end of it. First, he saw one of his buttons on his shirt pop open. The pale, doughy flesh of his belly popping through. He immediately reached forward, but that was a mistake. The chair creaked, then it cracked, and a score of heads popped over the cubicle walls to inspect the commotion as Chihiro landed flat on the floor.

[10lakhjourney]

Day 1 of My $0 to $12,000 in 90 Days Challenge — No Tricks, No Jugaad, Just Real Hustle

Let me start this with a deep breath.

Because Day 1 is officially over. And it was a rollercoaster.

Today, I want to take you inside something real. Raw. And hopefully, inspiring. I’m sharing the start of my $0 to $12,000 in 90 days challenge — a personal mission to prove that with pure white-hat marketing, hard work, and consistency, you can go from absolutely nothing… to something life-changing.

Why This Challenge?

I’ve been in digital marketing for a while now. I know PPC. I understand SEO. I’ve played around with affiliate campaigns, generated leads for clients, and seen the ups and downs.

But this time? This challenge is different.

This isn’t just about the money. It’s about self-respect. About doing something meaningful with zero shortcuts. No blackhat, no hacks, no “fake screenshots.” Just legit results from real marketing.

I told myself: if I ever wanted to prove my skills, it had to be through this $0 to $12,000 journey — starting from scratch, building from the ground up, and sharing every step of the way.

Waking Up with Fire in the Belly

Subah aankh khuli toh ek hi thought tha: “Is baar kuch bada karna hai.”

There was pressure, sure. But there was excitement too. I wasn’t going to play it safe. Not this time.

I jumped straight into action — started my day with a clear to-do list. My mindset? Work like I already have 10 clients relying on me.

The First Win Came Early

By 9:17 AM, I had already received my first lead call for a client in the water damage niche.

It converted.

That moment? It was small, but powerful. It reminded me — this is real. This can work.

Here’s What I Did on Day 1:

Ran PPC campaigns for a water damage client

Optimized and tracked calls using my tools

Closed a small SEO gig for $10 with a new client

Checked on my pre-ranked SEO pages (more on that below)

Total Day 1 earnings?

✅ $87 (~₹7,300) And that’s just the start.

The SEO Side Is Already Warming Up 🔥

The best surprise of Day 1?

Some of my SEO pages are already ranking and getting traffic.

Topics like:

Water damage

ACA health insurance

Roofing leads

Pest control

These are high-ticket niches, and they’re built to convert. If the trend continues (and I’ll make sure it does), this will become a long-term passive source of calls and commissions.

My Daily Goal: 50+ Calls

I’ve set a bold daily target: generate 50+ qualified calls per day.

Not all from PPC. Not all from SEO.

But from a mix of:

Paid ads

SEO rankings

Direct client work

Local lead gen deals

This diversified approach will help me stabilize income while scaling.

Tools I’m Using (In Case You Want to Try Too)

Here’s my Day 1 toolkit — simple, affordable, and powerful:

Google Ads for PPC

CallRail (or any call tracking software)

Notion for daily planning and task tracking

Google Sites + Docs for safe white-hat parasite SEO

Canva + ChatGPT for creatives & content drafts

Everything here is beginner-friendly — nothing fancy. This challenge is designed to be replicable.

Real Talk: I Was Scared Too

I’m going to be honest. When I announced this challenge publicly, I felt fear.

Not because I don’t believe in the system. But because accountability is terrifying.

When people know what you’re trying to do, every win and loss becomes public. But that’s also the magic of it. It pushes you.

Because when it’s out in the open, you stop making excuses.

Lessons from Day 1

I’m walking away from Day 1 with a few learnings I didn’t expect:

Consistency beats perfection — Just starting feels like momentum.

Small wins build belief — $87 might not be crazy money, but it’s fuel.

Clients matter — Don’t rely only on affiliate. Direct clients = stable income.

Your mindset makes or breaks this game — No tool can fix a broken mindset.

Wanna Start Your Own Challenge?

If you’re reading this and wondering: Can I do this too? Yes, you absolutely can.

Here’s what you need:

A simple strategy (not 15 different ones)

1-2 solid skills (PPC, SEO, outreach — pick your strength)

Patience. The results will come if you show up daily.

This isn’t about “luck” or “algorithms.” It’s about showing up when no one’s watching.

Final Thought: “Start Small. But Start.”

I don’t care if you only make $10 on Day 1. If it’s real, you’re winning.

Because if you start now — without overthinking — the compounding effect is going to shock you 30 days from now.

I made $87 on Day 1. And that’s just the trailer. This journey is going to be intense, raw, and powerful. And I’m bringing you along for every win, every struggle, every honest number.

Want to Follow This Journey?

I’m sharing daily updates across platforms. If you want to track my progress, learn from it, or even start your own $0 to $12,000 challenge — follow along.

Let’s grow together. No fluff. No hacks. Just real hustle. 💪

💬 Drop a comment if you’re starting something big too — I’d love to cheer you on.

Would you like a custom thumbnail/featured image suggestion to make it stand out on Vocal too?

[mariacallous]

For years, a mysterious figure who goes by the handle Stern led the Trickbot ransomware gang and evaded identification—even as other members of the group were outed in leaks and unmasked. This week German authorities revealed, without much fanfare, who they believe that enigmatic hacker kingpin to be: Vi­ta­ly Ni­ko­lae­vich Kovalev, a 36-year-old Russian man who remains at large in his home country.

Closer to home, WIRED revealed that Customs and Border Protection has mouth-swabbed 133,000 migrant children and teenagers to collect their DNA and uploaded their genetic data into a national criminal database used by local, state, and federal law enforcement. As the Trump administration’s migrant crackdown continues, often justified through invocations of crime and terrorism, WIRED also uncovered evidence that ties a Swedish far-right mixed-martial-arts tournament to an American neo-Nazi “fight club” based in California.

For those seeking to evade the US government surveillance, we offered tips about more private alternatives to US-based web browsing, email, and search tools. And we assembled a more general guide to protecting yourself from surveillance and hacking, based on questions our senior writer Matt Burgess received in a Reddit Ask Me Anything.

But that's not all. Each week, we round up the security and privacy news we didn't cover in depth ourselves. Click the headlines to read the full stories. And stay safe out there.

A Hacker May Have Deepfaked Trump’s Chief of Staff in a Phishing Campaign

The FBI is investigating who impersonated Susie Wiles, the Trump White House’s chief of staff and one of the president’s closest advisers, in a series of fraudulent messages and calls to high-profile Republican political figures and business executives, The Wall Street Journal reported. Government officials and authorities involved in the probe say the spear-phishing messages and calls appear to have targeted individuals on Wiles’ contact list, and Wiles has reportedly told colleagues that her personal phone was hacked to gain access to those contacts.

Despite Wiles’ reported claim of having her device hacked, it remains unconfirmed whether this was actually how attackers identified Wiles’ associates. It would also be possible to assemble such a target list from a combination of publicly available information and data sold by gray-market brokers.

“It's an embarrassing level of security awareness. You cannot convince me they actually did their security trainings,” says Jake Williams, a former NSA hacker and vice president of research and development at Hunter Strategy. “This is the type of garden-variety social engineering that everyone can end up dealing with these days, and certainly top government officials should be expecting it.”

In some cases, the targets received not just text messages but phone calls that impersonated Wiles’ voice, and some government officials believe the calls may have used artificial intelligence tools to fake Wiles’ voice. If so, that would make the incident one of the most significant cases yet of so-called deepfake software being used in a phishing attempt.

It’s not yet clear how Wiles’ phone might have been hacked, but the FBI has ruled out involvement by a foreign nation in the impersonation campaign, the bureau reportedly told White House officials. In fact, while some of the impersonation attempts appeared to have political goals—a member of Congress, for instance, was asked to assemble a list of people Trump might pardon—in at least one other case the impersonator tried to trick a target into setting up a cash transfer. That attempt at a money grab suggests that the spoofing campaign may be less of an espionage operation than a run-of-the-mill cybercriminal fraud scheme, albeit one with a very high-level target.

“There’s an argument here for using something like Signal—yes, the irony—or another messaging platform that offers an independent form of authentication if users want to validate who they’re talking to,” Hunter Strategy's Williams says. “The key thing as always is for government officials to be using vetted tools and following all federally mandated protocols rather than just winging it on their own devices.”

Iranian Man Behind Baltimore Ransomware Attack Pleads Guilty

The 2019 ransomware attack against the city government of Baltimore represents one of the worst municipal cybersecurity disasters on record, paralyzing city services for months and costing taxpayers tens of millions of dollars. Now the Department of Justice has unexpectedly revealed that it arrested one of the hackers behind that attack, 37-year-old Sina Gholinejad, in North Carolina last January, and that he has pleaded guilty in court. Gholinejad has admitted to being involved in the larger Robbinhood ransomware campaign that hit other targets, including the cities of Greenville, North Carolina, and Yonkers, New York. It’s still far from clear how Gholinejad was identified or why he traveled from Iran to the US, given that most ransomware criminals are careful to remain in countries that don’t have extradition agreements with the US government and are thus beyond US law enforcement’s reach. Indeed, the indictment against him names several unnamed co-conspirators who may be still at large in Iran.

Russia’s Nuclear Blueprints Exposed in Huge Document Leak

More than 2 million documents left exposed in a public database have revealed Russia’s nuclear weapons facilities in unprecedented levels of detail, according to reporting this week by Danish media outlet Danwatch and Germany’s Der Spiegel. Reporters examined the huge trove of documents relating to Russian military procurement—as Russian authorities slowly restricted access—and found blueprints for nuclear facilities across the country. Experts called the leak an unparalleled breach of Russia’s nuclear security, with the data potentially being incredibly useful for foreign governments and intelligence services.

The documents show how Russia’s nuclear facilities have been rebuilt in recent years, where new facilities have been created, detailed site plans including the locations of barracks and watchtowers, and the locations of underground tunnels connecting buildings. There are descriptions of IT systems and security systems, including information on surveillance cameras, electric fences being used, and the alarm systems in place. “It’s written explicitly where the control rooms are located, and which buildings are connected to each other via underground tunnels,” Danwatch reports.

Cops Used License Plate Recognition Cameras in Search for Woman Who Got an Abortion

License-plate-recognition cameras are creating huge databases of people’s movements across America—capturing where and when cars are traveling. For years there have been concerns that the cameras could be weaponized by law enforcement officials or private investigators and turned against those seeking abortions or providing abortion-related care. Officials from Johnson County Sheriff’s Office in Texas—where nearly all abortions are illegal—searched 83,000 Flock license-plate reader cameras at the start of this month while looking for a woman they claim had a self-administered abortion, 404 Media reported this week.

Sheriff Adam King said that the officials weren’t trying to “block her from leaving the state” and were searching for the woman as her family was concerned about her safety. However, experts say that conducting a search across the entire United States shows the sprawling dragnet of license-plate-reader cameras and highlights how those seeking abortions can be tracked. “The idea that the police are actively tracking the location of women they believe have had self-administered abortions under the guise of ‘safety’ does not make me feel any better about this kind of surveillance,” Eva Galperin, director of cybersecurity at the Electronic Frontier Foundation told 404 Media.

Investment Scam Company Linked to $200 Million in Losses Sanctioned by US Government

Philippines-based company Funnull Technology and its boss, Liu Lizhi, have been sanctioned by the US Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control for their links to investment and romance scams, which are often referred to as “pig-butchering” scams. “Funnull has directly facilitated several of these schemes, resulting in over $200 million in US victim-reported losses,” OFAC said in a statement announcing the sanctions. The company purchases IP addresses from major cloud service providers and then sells them to cybercriminals who could use them to host scam websites—OFAC says Funnull is “linked to the majority” of investment scam websites reported to the FBI. In January independent cybersecurity journalist Brian Krebs detailed how Funnull was abusing Amazon’s and Microsoft’s cloud services.

[msalammedical]

Crypto Scam Recovery: How to Spot, Report, and Recover from Online Frauds

The world of cryptocurrency is booming, offering investors a decentralized and promising way to grow their wealth. But with that growth comes an increasing number of scams targeting unsuspecting users. From fake investment platforms to phishing attacks, online fraud is a real threat. The good news? Victims can take action. In this post, we’ll guide you on how to spot crypto scams, report them, and increase your chances of recovery.

How to Spot a Crypto Scam

Knowing how to recognize the signs of a scam can save you from massive losses. Below are common types of cryptocurrency scams and the red flags to watch out for.

1. Fake Investment Platforms

These websites or apps promise guaranteed returns on crypto investments. They often look professional and mimic real companies, but they operate purely to steal your funds.

Red Flags:

Promises of high, risk-free returns

Urgency to deposit funds quickly

No verifiable company background

2. Phishing Attacks

Scammers send emails, messages, or pop-ups that look like they’re from trusted platforms. These messages trick users into giving away private keys or login credentials.

Red Flags:

Misspelled URLs or suspicious email addresses

Requests for sensitive information

Offers or warnings that seem too good or too urgent

3. Pump and Dump Schemes

Fraudsters hype up a worthless coin to drive demand and inflate prices. Once the price peaks, they dump their holdings, causing massive losses for late investors.

Red Flags:

Unusual hype in online forums or social media

Sudden spike in price without real news or updates

Unverified claims about partnerships or technology

How to Report a Crypto Scam

If you’ve been scammed, it’s essential to report the incident immediately. Doing so not only helps protect others but also increases your chance of recovery.

1. Report to Local Authorities

File a police report or contact your country's cybercrime unit. Include all details—transaction history, wallet addresses, emails, and screenshots.

2. Notify the Exchange

If the scammer used a known exchange to receive your funds, contact that platform’s support team. Many exchanges can freeze the funds if reported in time.

3. Report to Online Watchdogs

Organizations like the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), FTC, or Action Fraud (UK) collect reports to investigate and track online scams.

4. Alert Blockchain Forensics Firms

Specialized companies like Chainalysis or CipherTrace can trace stolen crypto on the blockchain. In many cases, they collaborate with law enforcement and legal teams to initiate recovery.

How to Recover from a Crypto Scam

While recovering lost crypto isn’t easy, it’s not impossible. Here��s a structured plan from crypto recovery experts:

1. Secure All Accounts

Change passwords and enable two-factor authentication on your wallets, exchanges, and email. Run a malware scan on your devices to ensure no backdoors remain.

2. Collect Evidence

Document every aspect of the fraud—wallet addresses, transaction IDs, email conversations, social media links, and screenshots. The more information you gather, the better.

3. Consult a Crypto Recovery Expert

Work with a reputable crypto recovery agency or blockchain forensic specialist. These professionals use tracking software to trace your funds across wallet addresses and exchanges.

Note: Be cautious—scammers also pose as recovery agents. Only trust firms with proven results, legal backing, and strong online presence.

Prevention Tips to Avoid Future Crypto Frauds

Use hardware wallets for secure storage of your crypto assets.

Double-check URLs before entering credentials.

Avoid platforms or individuals promising “guaranteed returns.”

Do your research before investing—verify reviews, company registration, and team transparency.

Final Thoughts

Crypto scams are becoming more sophisticated, but with awareness and the right actions, you can fight back. Spotting red flags early, reporting to the proper authorities, and seeking expert help are key steps toward recovery.

If you or someone you know has fallen victim to a crypto scam recovery, don’t delay. Act fast, gather your data, and reach out to professionals who can help you trace and possibly recover your stolen funds.

[polychromatiica]

i love ur art sm!! ur such an inspiration 💌💌how do you choose your palettes? the colors you use have always catched my eye

thank you so much!!!

For the colours, I don't know what to suggest if you do traditional art as I'm not very skilled in that but if you're a fellow digital artist I can try!!

pretty long post coming up, btw I do need to preface I'm just a student and not a professional, so take this all with a grain of salt especially if i get technical at all

TL;DR (too long didnt read): i use a green and or orange multiply layer, i try to give everything a dark green-orange undertone, focus on how certain colours look when next to each other and how they can appear completely different

also also its late and im tired so i apologise for any mistakes

i usually start by doing colours that generally match the character im drawing, then i just kinda go wild with altering them, ive learnt to pick them on my own through practice but a lot of the time and starting out i simply mess around with "blending modes". It'd be difficult to explain all of them and they may differ from software to software but my favourite one is "Multiply" (which should be on most softwares, hopefully!)

now, what you do with these depends on what sort of vibe youre going for, I like warm colours, I don't really know how to describe my art, but I like it to be saturated yet dark.. if that makes any sense lmao

gonna use this random doodle of emma to explain what i mean. on my phone rn so its not,, very good but itll do haha

so, i started by getting roughly similar colours to what she has. colourpicking from official art is always an option too, if youre drawing an oc then just figure out the general "local colour" (flat colours unaffected by lighting) you want the character to have and put them down, my art switches from being desaturated and saturated a lot depending on the vibe im goung for, for the more saturated art I'm gonna add a clipping layer of this solid bright yellowy green olivey colour in this example (the colour you use changes the atmosphere of it a lot, i usually use green or orange because i really like the look it gives, i love dark and warm tones)

clipping is a feature a lot of art softwares should have, for this im using ibis paint x, i usually use clip studio paint, others will have it and blending modes too, it lets you create a new layer and "clip" it to the one below, anything you draw on the clipped layer will only show up on space that has been drawn on the layer below (but you can hide/delete anything on this layer and it won't effect the original layer!)

next im gonna use the multiply feature,

"keeps only the darker colors of the blend layer and makes light colors less opaque. The resulting color is always darker, except for where it's pure white" (taken from a website called sketch) dunno how much the specifics of its affects change between different softwares, but the way I view it is always "makes base colours darker, and adds a tint of whatever colour you selected"

the result from doing that is this! this gives a sorta green tone, you can play with the opacity to change the intensity. this is a really simple trick to get cool looking colours, and the more I've used it and paid attention to what specific colours i get from doing it. for these saturated pieces ive noticed that depending on how much I tinted the piece any colours that would for example be white (like the hair frederick has in this drawing) is actually straight up yellow/orange

i have some art thats a little less saturated/a bit darker than this though, but its a pretty similar process! you can see the white of their shirts are actually again a dark desaturated yellow/orange, now you may notice it looks a little green at first, that is another thing to keep in mind

colours can trick your eyes a lot! and you can use this to your advantage very well, I'm not well versed enough in colour theory to explain the exact specifics on how this happens, but basically depending on the colours surrounding it, certain colours can appear completely different

another example is normans waistcoat in this drawing, you probably see that and think "thats blue" but nope, somehow, its actually a very very desaturated yellow! grey can appear as blue a lot ive noticed

if we isolated that grey/yellow colour you can see it is in fact grey, but it looks blue in the whole drawing!

whilst obviously theres nothing wrong with making a drawing of a character where things like blue actually are blue or a white/grey is actually white/grey, in the style of art I do i personally enjoy limiting the amount of colours used and using certain tricks to make it look like theres more variation in hues than there actually is, i like how cohesive it makes the artwork look :)

heres another example of what multiply can do with a few different colours, its best to learn to colour without it, i see multiply (and other blending modes! theres a lot of them) like training wheels, its not cheating to use them, its just a little boost to help you start out, and you can go a lot further in developing your understanding of colour if you try and learn to colour without it :D

[river-taxbird]

I always want Virtual Reality to be better than it is.

VR has been around for approaching a decade at this point, and companies keep trying to make it happen. I have seen the theory that Facebook (Meta) got into the VR game because they want hardware they can control without third parties stopping their data collection, but they appear to be downplaying it now.

So can VR be good? When is it going to happen?

My first headset was the HTC Vive, and it was fun at the time, but playing it today, it's pretty dire. Depressingly low resolution, major screen door effect, big, and bulky. Annoying external trackers. It is like 10% of the way to being what I want VR to be. I still have it but can't really play it since the poor quality usually leads to a one way trip to the floor.

I have tried the Oculus Quest 2, and it is kind of on its way. It has better controllers, some actual passthrough, and the screen door effect is much less pronounced. Too bad Facebook are evil. It's like 40% of the way to what I would consider a good headset to be.

I am looking at the Apple Vision Pro, and it's kind of getting there, it is like 70% of the way to being what I want VR to be. It has crystal clear video with no screen door, passthrough that actually works for professional use, and the hand and eye tracking appears to actually work which is impressive. It isn't for gaming and has absolutely no software support for the VR software people like. It appears to occupy a different niche to the cheaper gaming headsets, aimed at "Professional" use. It shares this trait with the quest pro.

We have come a long way in the last 10 years, but it will probably be another 10 years before virtual reality is something people actually want to use. Tech companies are never ones to give up though, and they will keep painfully iterating until they get there. I think to have a chance, to be the 100% of what I want it to be VR, I think it would need, including but not limited to;

Tethered and untethered use, allowing for local apps or connecting to a PC for extra horsepower. No bullshit lockdowns on software like they have today.

Functional hand tracking AND quality VR controllers for different applications. Both of these exist today but not in the same product at the same time for some reason.

Lightweight and cool. Fanless. Won't give you a spinal injury if you wear it for more than 3 hours. Semiconductor technology is probably about there or will be there soon, but Apple isn't fanless. Sadly Apple's battery in the pocket trick might be the only way to keep the weight down. Batteries just don't really change much, sorry!

Ultra high resolution. No screen door effect. Apple are about here but it's crazy expensive, so in 10 years I am sure the price will go down. VR isn't going to happen unless you can get Vision Pro quality at the baseline, for the price of a Meta Quest.

This really reminded me of when I wanted to get a tablet PC in like 2007 but quality tablets didn't exist yet. It was all massive chonky Windows CE garbage. I knew it was coming, everyone did, but tech wasn't there. The ipad releasing several years later is what really put them in the hands of consumers.

Mass software libraries for VR won't happen until these technical challenges are overcome, and by then, who is going to care? Maybe the vision pro is Apple taking something that already exists and putting it to the mass market, as they have done so many times before, but maybe this time it isn't going to take. Maybe VR is just never going to happen, but if it does, I want to be here for it. Play Half Life Alyx if you can, and never buy a Meta product if you can avoid it.

[reportscammedfunds]

Recover Stolen Crypto

Cryptocurrency has revolutionized the way we transact, offering decentralized and secure solutions for the modern economy. But with these benefits come risks, including the possibility of theft. Crypto theft can be devastating, leaving victims feeling powerless due to the anonymity of blockchain transactions. However, while challenging, recovering stolen crypto isn’t impossible. This guide will walk you through the steps to maximize your chances of retrieving lost funds and fortify your crypto security. Recover stolen crypto

Understanding How Crypto Theft Happens

Phishing Attacks

Phishing involves tricking users into revealing sensitive information such as private keys or wallet passwords. Scammers often impersonate legitimate platforms via fake websites or emails designed to look authentic. Once you input your details, they gain access to your wallet.

Hacking of Wallets and Exchanges

Crypto wallets and exchanges are prime targets for hackers. Weak security protocols, vulnerabilities in the platform, or user negligence can lead to unauthorized access and fund transfers.

Social Engineering Scams

These scams prey on human psychology. For instance, scammers may pose as trusted individuals or companies, convincing victims to transfer funds or disclose sensitive information.

Malware and Keyloggers

Cybercriminals use malware or keyloggers to monitor user activity. When you type your wallet credentials, the software captures and transmits the data to the attacker.

Immediate Steps to Take After Crypto Theft

Stay Calm and Act Quickly

Panic can lead to poor decisions. Assess the situation logically and act swiftly to prevent further losses.

Identify the Theft Details

Review your transaction history to determine when and how the theft occurred. Note the wallet addresses involved, the amount stolen, and the transaction ID.

Secure Remaining Funds

Transfer your remaining funds to a secure wallet. Hardware wallets or cold storage solutions are preferable as they are offline and immune to hacking.

Contacting Relevant Authorities

Reporting to Local Law Enforcement

File a report with your local authorities. While they may lack blockchain expertise, having an official record can support further recovery efforts.

Involving Cybercrime Units

Specialized cybercrime divisions can investigate the theft and collaborate with international organizations if needed.

Engaging Regulators Like SEC

In cases involving fraudulent investments, report the incident to regulatory bodies like the SEC or FCA to initiate investigations.

Notifying Crypto Platforms and Wallet Providers

How Exchanges Can Assist

Notify the exchange where the stolen funds were transacted. They may freeze suspicious accounts or provide information to investigators.

The Role of Wallet Providers

Wallet providers might help in identifying security vulnerabilities or advising on recovery steps.

Sharing Transaction Details

Provide all relevant details, including the transaction hash, wallet addresses, and any communication with the scammer.

Utilizing Blockchain Analysis Tools

How Blockchain Transparency Aids Recovery

Blockchain’s immutable ledger allows you to trace fund movements. With the right tools, you can monitor the thief’s wallet and subsequent transfers.

Popular Blockchain Analysis Tools

Platforms like Chainalysis, CipherTrace, and Elliptic specialize in tracking stolen cryptocurrency and identifying patterns.

Tracking Stolen Funds

Collaborate with professionals who use these tools to increase your chances of recovering the funds.

Hiring a Cryptocurrency Recovery Expert

Benefits of Professional Help

Experts have the technical knowledge and resources to trace transactions, liaise with platforms, and initiate recovery processes.

Vetting Recovery Agencies for Legitimacy

Ensure the agency has a proven track record. Beware of additional scams that exploit victims seeking help.

Avoiding Additional Scams

Never pay upfront fees without verifying the agency’s legitimacy. Genuine recovery services operate transparently.

Using Social Media and Community Networks

Engaging the Crypto Community

Post about your stolen crypto on forums, Reddit, or Twitter. The community often shares valuable insights or connects you with experts.

Raising Awareness About Stolen Funds

Highlighting the theft publicly can deter thieves from cashing out and put pressure on platforms to assist.

Success Stories

Many individuals have successfully recovered their stolen crypto by rallying community support and leveraging online networks.

Legal Options for Recovering Stolen Crypto

Filing Lawsuits

If you have enough evidence to identify the thief, you may file a lawsuit. Courts can issue orders to freeze assets or compel exchanges to provide information about suspicious accounts.

International Legal Frameworks

Cryptocurrency theft often crosses borders, making it necessary to engage international legal frameworks like the Hague Convention. Collaborating with global enforcement agencies can enhance recovery efforts.

Challenges with Jurisdiction

Jurisdictional issues complicate legal proceedings. Many crypto criminals operate in countries with lax regulations, making prosecution and recovery harder.

Preventative Measures to Protect Cryptocurrency

Using Hardware Wallets

Hardware wallets store private keys offline, making them virtually immune to hacking. They are the gold standard for crypto security and should be your primary storage method for large holdings.

Enabling Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

2FA adds an additional layer of security to your crypto accounts by requiring a second verification step. Always enable it, preferably using an authenticator app rather than SMS.

Avoiding Suspicious Links and Emails

Phishing scams often start with an innocent-looking link or email. Be cautious and double-check URLs before entering sensitive information. Bookmark trusted platforms to avoid accidental clicks on fake sites.

Educating Yourself on Crypto Scams

Recognizing Common Scam Patterns

From Ponzi schemes to fake giveaways, crypto scams come in many forms. Stay informed about the latest trends and tactics used by scammers.

Staying Updated with News and Security Tips

Follow trusted crypto news outlets and cybersecurity blogs. Awareness is your best defense against evolving threats in the crypto space.

Building a Secure Crypto Environment

Regular Wallet Audits

Periodically review your wallet and transaction history to identify unauthorized activity early. This practice can prevent small breaches from escalating into significant losses.

Diversifying Storage Solutions

Spread your funds across multiple wallets. Use a combination of hardware wallets, paper wallets, and software wallets for added security.

Investing in Cybersecurity Tools

Firewalls, antivirus software, and VPNs can protect you from malware and other digital threats. These tools are essential for safe crypto trading and storage.

Understanding the Limits of Recovery

Why Crypto Recovery Isn’t Guaranteed

The decentralized and pseudonymous nature of blockchain technology makes fund recovery difficult. Once funds are transferred to a thief’s wallet, reversing the transaction is nearly impossible without their cooperation.

Managing Expectations

While recovery efforts are worth pursuing, it’s essential to prepare for the possibility that your funds may not be recovered. Focus on improving your security to prevent future losses.

The Role of Decentralized Finance (DeFi) in Crypto Security

How DeFi Protocols Enhance Transparency

DeFi platforms operate on smart contracts, which are transparent and immutable. This openness can help in tracking fraudulent activity and ensuring secure transactions.

Risks Associated with DeFi Platforms

Despite their benefits, DeFi platforms are not immune to vulnerabilities. Exploits in smart contracts and lack of insurance can lead to significant losses.

Recovering stolen cryptocurrency is no easy feat, but it’s not entirely hopeless either. By taking immediate action, leveraging blockchain tools, and engaging with experts, you can increase your chances of recovering your funds. Most importantly, prioritize prevention by adopting stringent security measures. Remember, in the world of cryptocurrency, staying one step ahead of scammers is your best protection.

Contact Info: Email: - info@146.190.171.32

[lazeecomet]

Thinking back on it, I did some really clever shit in my tenure as a field service engineer at the warehouse robotics company, that could have only worked because there were so many unsecured doors in the software

The V3s we had deployed when I first joined communicated with us over WiFi. We used Putty to remote in and run a long command to run the bootloader and start the main process

But you could also just run the main program without the long command. If you did that you could send opcodes to the motor controllers and get the wheels to turn or actuate functions. We were supposed to use this to run bench tests on test stands to ensure the robots were fit to put in production and home the motors

We did

But I also taught everyone how to send opcodes to manually drive the bots back to charging locations so we didnt have to push them. The only thing you had to be careful of was not putting a robot into production when it was running the program in the foreground as we called it. The long command to run in the background was needed as if you closed your putty window then the foreground program would stop

We did have someone crash a robot this way when they logged out while it was moving

But for being WiFi connected, this system was safer then you think as opcodes sent from a user could only be interpreted in foreground and system opcodes only received in background. Halting and restarting the program while the system was online would thow an error on the main command and control server that would put the robot out of service

Shit got wild when we upgraded to V4

Gone is the wifi in favor of 2.4 ghz radio. The robot also automatically runs the bootloader on power up. Foreground and background modes are a thing of the past. Now any commands sent on that radio channel, from the user or the command and control server, are accepted, no matter what

Granted, doing that while the system is on will desync the robot physically from what the system thinks is going on but it's smart enough to put the robot into ESTOP when the robot moves when it shouldn't

I however had different uses

There was several errors I encountered where I eventually diagnosed that the reason why a feature we had wasn't working was because the robot was given the opcode to move before it had been given the opcode to get ready to move

So the robot would try to move, fail to move, go Into ESTOP and then I'd step in. Id clear the estop on the robot locally with the estop clear opcode and send the opcode for getting ready to move. The robot, having gotten a command when it shouldn't, re-enters ESTOP and now everything is synced back up. I can now clear the estop normally and when the estop clears, the command server retries the last failed command. Now that the robot is ready to move, It drives away like nothing happened and operations resume

V5 shut down all my clever tricks. Maintenance mode is a physical switch that has to be pressed to do manually commands and pressing it power cycles the bot. Probably for the best tho

[eunicemiddleton421]

How Do Private Investigators Track Cell Phones?

Private investigators (PIs) are known for their resourcefulness and ability to uncover information that may seem out of reach for the average person. Among their many skills, tracking cell phones has become a critical tool in modern investigations. Whether working on cases involving missing persons, fraud, infidelity, or corporate espionage, PIs often rely on cell phone tracking to collect crucial evidence.

But how do private investigators track cell phones? This blog explores the techniques, tools, and ethical considerations involved in this sensitive process.

1. The Basics of Cell Phone Tracking

Cell phone tracking involves determining the location of a device by utilizing the technology it relies on to function—cell towers, GPS, and Wi-Fi networks. Smartphones emit signals that can be intercepted or analyzed to pinpoint their location. While law enforcement agencies have sophisticated tools and legal authority for tracking, private investigators often use alternative methods that stay within legal boundaries.

2. Common Techniques Used by Private Investigators

a. GPS Tracking

GPS (Global Positioning System) tracking is one of the most accurate ways to locate a cell phone. Many modern devices come equipped with built-in GPS chips that constantly communicate with satellites to determine their location. Private investigators might use the following approaches to access GPS data:

Authorized Access: If a private investigator has legal permission (e.g., from the device owner), they can use GPS tracking apps to monitor the phone's location. This is common in cases of missing persons or parental tracking of children.

Location-Sharing Apps: Some apps, like Find My iPhone or Google Find My Device, allow users to share their location. A PI might assist clients in accessing these features, provided they have the right credentials or consent.

b. Cell Tower Triangulation

Cell phones connect to nearby towers for communication, and the distance to these towers can be used to approximate the device's location. By analyzing signal strength from multiple towers, a process known as triangulation can determine the phone's general whereabouts.

Private investigators might collaborate with telecommunications providers to request such data, but this typically requires proper legal justification, such as a subpoena or court order.

c. Wi-Fi Positioning Systems (WPS)

Many modern devices use Wi-Fi signals for location tracking when GPS is unavailable. By identifying the networks a phone connects to, investigators can narrow down the location. This technique is particularly useful in urban areas, where Wi-Fi networks are abundant.

d. Mobile Applications

Private investigators may use third-party apps designed for tracking. These apps often require installation on the target device, making their use legally and ethically complex. Popular tracking apps include:

mSpy: Often marketed for parental control, this app can monitor a phone’s location, messages, and activity.

FlexiSPY: Offers advanced tracking features, but its use must comply with local laws.

Such software is generally legal only if used with the consent of the device owner.

e. Social Engineering

In some cases, private investigators might rely on social engineering techniques to gain access to location data. For example, they might trick the target into sharing their location via a deceptive message or link. While this is less common among reputable PIs, it highlights the importance of staying vigilant against such tactics.

3. Advanced Tracking Methods

a. IMEI and SIM Tracking

Every mobile device has a unique International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number. Similarly, SIM cards have unique identifiers that can be traced through the network. Private investigators may use IMEI or SIM tracking to locate a device if they have access to the necessary records or tools.

b. Stingray Devices

A Stingray is a portable device that mimics a cell tower, tricking nearby phones into connecting to it. Law enforcement agencies commonly use this technology, but private investigators typically avoid it due to its invasive nature and legal restrictions.

c. Geofencing

Geofencing creates a virtual perimeter around a specific area. If a device enters or exits this area, it triggers an alert. This technique can be used with GPS or mobile app tracking and is often employed in cases involving surveillance or asset protection.

4. Legal and Ethical Considerations

Tracking cell phones is a highly regulated activity due to privacy concerns. Private investigators must adhere to strict legal and ethical guidelines to avoid violating rights or committing crimes.

a. Consent

In most jurisdictions, private investigators can track a cell phone only with the consent of the device owner. For example, a parent might authorize tracking of their child’s phone, or an employer might monitor company-owned devices used by employees.

b. Privacy Laws

Privacy laws vary by country and region but generally prohibit unauthorized tracking. In the United States, the Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA) regulates the interception of electronic communications, including location data. Similarly, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the EU sets strict rules on personal data collection.

c. Ethical Practices

Reputable private investigators follow ethical practices to maintain professionalism and protect client interests. This includes:

Avoiding illegal tracking methods.

Respecting the privacy of non-consenting individuals.

Providing clear disclosures about the methods used.

Unethical practices, such as installing spyware without consent, can lead to legal repercussions and damage the investigator’s reputation.

5. The Role of Technology

Technology plays a central role in cell phone tracking. From software solutions to hardware tools, PIs have access to a wide range of resources that make their work more efficient. Some commonly used technologies include:

Tracking Apps: As mentioned earlier, these apps offer location-sharing features for authorized users.

Surveillance Tools: Tools like GPS trackers or geofencing systems allow investigators to monitor movement discreetly.

Data Analysis Software: PIs often use software to analyze call records, SMS logs, or app usage patterns, which can provide indirect clues about a person’s location.

6. Challenges in Cell Phone Tracking

Despite advancements, cell phone tracking comes with its challenges:

a. Legal Barriers

Obtaining location data without proper authorization can lead to legal consequences, limiting the methods available to private investigators.

b. Technological Limitations

Signal Interference: GPS tracking may not work in areas with poor satellite coverage, such as tunnels or densely packed buildings.

Device Security: Modern smartphones are equipped with advanced security features that prevent unauthorized access to location data.

c. Ethical Dilemmas

Balancing client demands with ethical considerations can be tricky. Investigators must ensure they don’t overstep boundaries while fulfilling their obligations.

7. Real-World Applications

Private investigators use cell phone tracking in various scenarios:

a. Missing Persons

Cell phone location data can provide vital clues in locating missing individuals, especially in time-sensitive cases.

b. Infidelity Investigations

PIs often track cell phones to gather evidence of infidelity. For example, GPS data might reveal that a spouse visited a suspicious location.

c. Corporate Investigations

In cases of corporate fraud or espionage, tracking company-owned devices can help identify rogue employees or uncover unauthorized activities.

d. Stalking and Harassment Cases

Cell phone tracking can help victims of stalking or harassment by identifying the perpetrator’s movements and providing evidence for legal action.

8. How to Protect Yourself from Unwanted Tracking

While private investigators are bound by legal and ethical guidelines, not everyone operates within the law. To protect yourself from unauthorized tracking:

Disable Location Services: Turn off GPS and location-sharing features when not needed.

Secure Your Device: Use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and regularly update your phone’s software.

Avoid Suspicious Links: Be cautious about clicking on unknown links or downloading apps from unverified sources.

Use Anti-Spyware Apps: These can detect and remove tracking software from your device.

9. Conclusion

Private investigators play an essential role in uncovering the truth, and cell phone tracking is one of the many tools they use to achieve their goals. However, this practice requires a delicate balance of skill, technology, and adherence to legal and ethical standards.

For individuals and organizations seeking the services of a PI, it’s crucial to ensure they work with professionals who operate transparently and within the law. At the same time, understanding the methods and limitations of cell phone tracking can help protect your privacy and make informed decisions when hiring an investigator.

By staying informed about the capabilities and boundaries of cell phone tracking, you can better navigate the complexities of this modern investigative tool.

[digitalworldvision]

Cyber Security Threat For Local Businesses

In this article learn the cyber security risks for Australian small businesses and how to protect your business future.

Australian local businesses face an ever-growing threat from cybercriminals. While many small business owners believe they're too insignificant to attract hackers, the reality is quite different. Cybercriminals often target smaller enterprises precisely because they tend to have weaker security measures in place. This blog post will explore the cyber dangers that small businesses in Australia may face and offer some practical advice on how to protect your livelihood.

The Growing Menace of Cyber Attacks

Why Small Businesses Are Targets

You might think your local shop or service isn't worth a hacker's time, but you'd be wrong. Cybercriminals often view small businesses as low-hanging fruit. Here's why:

1. Limited resources for cybersecurity

2. Less sophisticated defence systems

3. Valuable customer data

4. Potential gateway to larger partner companies

Common Cyber Threats to Watch Out For

Ransomware Blackcat Ransomware Gang.

Ransomware attacks have skyrocketed in recent years. These nasty pieces of software encrypt your data and demand payment for its release. For a small business, this can be devastating. Imagine losing access to your customer database or financial records overnight!

Phishing Scams

Phishing remains one of the most common ways cybercriminals gain access to your systems. They send seemingly legitimate emails that trick you or your staff into revealing sensitive information or downloading malware.

Data Breaches

Small businesses often store valuable customer data, making them prime targets for data breaches. A breach can result in hefty fines under Australian privacy laws and irreparable damage to your reputation.

Protecting Your Business from Cyber Threats

Essential Security Measures

1. **Use strong, unique passwords**: Implement a password policy that requires complex passwords and regular changes.

2. **Keep software updated**: Regularly update your operating systems, applications, and security software to patch vulnerabilities.

3. **Educate your staff**: Your employees are your first line of defence. Train them to recognise and report suspicious emails or activities.

Invest in Cybersecurity

While it might seem costly, investing in cybersecurity is far cheaper than dealing with the aftermath of an attack. Consider these steps:

1. **Install and maintain firewalls**: These act as a barrier between your internal network and external threats.

2. **Use encryption**: Encrypt sensitive data, especially if you store customer information.

3. **Implement multi-factor authentication**: This adds an extra layer of security beyond just passwords.

Create a Cybersecurity Plan

Don't wait for an attack to happen before you start thinking about cybersecurity. Develop a plan that includes:

1. Regular risk assessments

2. Incident response procedures

3. Data backup and recovery strategies

The Cost of Ignoring Cybersecurity

Failing to address cybersecurity can have dire consequences for your business:

1. Financial losses from theft or ransom payments

2. Damage to your reputation and loss of customer trust

3. Legal consequences for failing to protect customer data

4. Potential business closure due to inability to recover from an attack

Don't become another statistic in the growing list of small businesses crippled by cyber attacks. Take action today to protect your business, your customers, and your future.

Remember, in the digital age, cybersecurity isn't just an IT issue—it's a critical business concern that demands your attention and investment.

Kelly Hector creator of YouTube channel focused on cyber security risks and local marketing

[pastel-charm-14]

≡;- ꒰ °getting into photography ꒱

if you've ever felt drawn to the magic of capturing moments through the lens of a camera, you're in for an exciting adventure. getting into photography is a journey of exploration, creativity, and self-expression. here are some tips to help you get started, all in lowercase for a relaxed read:

start with what you have: you don't need fancy equipment to begin your photography journey. whether you're using a smartphone, a point-and-shoot camera, or a basic DSLR, focus on mastering the tools you have at your disposal before considering an upgrade.

learn the basics: familiarize yourself with the fundamental concepts of photography, including composition, lighting, exposure, and focus. there are plenty of online resources, tutorials, and books available to help you understand the basics and hone your skills.

practice, practice, practice: the key to improving your photography skills is practice. take your camera with you wherever you go and experiment with different subjects, angles, and settings. don't be afraid to make mistakes—every photo you take is an opportunity to learn and grow.

study the work of others: immerse yourself in the world of photography by studying the work of renowned photographers, both past and present. pay attention to their composition, lighting techniques, and creative vision. draw inspiration from their work while finding your own unique style and perspective.

join a community: connect with other photographers and enthusiasts by joining online forums, social media groups, or local photography clubs. seek feedback on your work, share tips and tricks, and learn from the experiences of others. a supportive community can provide valuable encouragement and motivation on your photography journey.

experiment with different genres: explore a variety of photography genres, from landscapes and portraits to street photography and macro photography. try stepping out of your comfort zone and experimenting with new techniques and styles. you never know what you might discover along the way.

embrace post-processing: don't underestimate the power of post-processing in enhancing your photos. learn how to use editing software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop to fine-tune your images, and adjust colors, contrast, and clarity.

remember, photography is not just about capturing images—it's about storytelling, emotion, and connection.

- love, pastel