• Meeting Intro with Harry
• "How to use the Dock" with Gary
• Q & A with the "A" Team based on questions emailed prior to meeting as well from the audience
Location:
by ZOOM on-line
MAGIC Minutes for June 19, 2024
by Wendy Shimada, MAGIC*
The meeting was called to order by President Harry Anderson at 4:01 pm on June 19, with 22 members attending. He reported that Treasurer Gary McIntyre provided the financial report of a balance was $9760.40 in the club account. Harry reminded everyone that as we are not collecting dues, contributions are always welcome via the MAGIC website.
Harry reminded members that they can still participate in the club's questionaire, which is available both as a PDF on the MAGIC website at https://www.whidbey.com/magicmug/data/survey.html and will also be emailed out to members shortly to provide multiple options to fill it out. As an incentive, one lucky winner's name will be drawn to win a $50 Apple gift card. Our goal is to find out what members want from our organization so please take a couple of minutes to tell us what you look to MAGIC for to help us determine future meeting agendas. If you have any difficulties filling out the form, please email us.
This month's meeting featured Robert Elphick's presentation on the "Basics of iMovie", followed by Q&A by Robert & Ron Sharp.
Next month's meeting on July 17 will have a session on "How to Use the Dock Better" with Gary McIntyre. Afterwards, there will be the usual Q&A, with the "A Team". As always, you may either send in your questions ahead of time, to allow the experts time to research your questions or just ask them at the meeting and they will be answered, as time allows.
Harry then turned the meeting over to Robert for a very interesting presentation on iMovie, which can be accessed on the MAGIC website zoom page here.
Afterwards, Robert and Ron answered questions from attendees and the meeting adjourned at 5:08 p.m.
MAGIC Musings
Here is the schedule of presentations at our meetings from through the summer:
July 17 — How to use the Dock with Gary
Aug 21 — Synching all devices with Ron
Sept 18 — Using AirDrop / Figuring out which cords work with what by Robert
See you on July 17 at 4 p.m.
Note: This Software Update section of the newsletter lists the most relevant Apple updates. Not all updates are listed for all products. Additionally, I'll add other pertinent updates on occasion.
Apple confirms what's new with latest AirPods software update
by Chance Miller, 9to5mac
Yesterday, Apple started rolling out new firmware updates to all of its AirPods models, as well as select Beats headphones. In a new update posted to its website, Apple says that this new firmware updates addresses a Bluetooth vulnerability that could've allowed an attacker to gain access to your AirPods or Beats.
New firmware updates are rolling out to AirPods 2, AirPods 3, AirPods Pro, AirPods Max, Powerbeats Pro, and Beats Fit Pro. Here's a breakdown of the latest firmware versions for AirPods after this update:
AirPods Pro (2nd generation) with MagSafe Charging Case (USB-C): 6.5.8 (6F8)
AirPods Pro (2nd generation) with MagSafe Charging Case (Lightning): 6.5.8 (6F8)
AirPods Pro (1st generation): 6A326
AirPods (3rd generation): 6A326
AirPods (2nd generation): 6A326
AirPods Max: 6A326
AirPods (1st generation): 6.8.8
Beats Fit Pro: 6F8
Powerbeats Pro: 6F8
Apple's release notes for the new AirPods and Beats updates say that they contain "bug fixes and other improvements." On its security website, however, Apple has more specific details to share. The company says that the firmware updates addresses a vulnerability that could've allowed an attacker to "gain access to your headphones."
Impact: When your headphones are seeking a connection request to one of your previously paired devices, an attacker in Bluetooth range might be able to spoof the intended source device and gain access to your headphones
Description: An authentication issue was addressed with improved state management.
To check your AirPods firmware version:
Open the Settings app on your iPhone
Navigate to the "Bluetooth" menu
Find your AirPods in the list of devices
Tap the "i" next to them
Look at the "Firmware Version" number
It's not possible to manually update your AirPods or Beats firmware. Apple says your AirPods will update themselves when charging and within Bluetooth range of your iPhone, iPad, or Mac that's connected to Wi-Fi.
How to manage and track all of your Apple and App Store subscriptions
by Michael Potuck, 9to5mac
This story is brought to you by Copilot Money, the best money tracker for iOS and macOS that gives you full financial clarity. Try Copilot Money today to track your App Store subscriptions and use the code 9TO5MAC to get a 2-month free trial.
Curious about what services you're subscribed to through Apple's App Store? Or maybe you want to cancel a trial right after signing up so you don't forget? Read along for how to track and manage your Apple and App Store subscriptions.
Apple has made it seamless to subscribe to services through your Apple ID. But the flipside is it's easy to forget what you're paying for, what's on a trial, monthly, or yearly subscription.
How to track and manage Apple App Store subscriptions
Fortunately, you can view all of your Apple and third-party app subscriptions in one place on your iPhone and your other Apple devices.
And something useful to keep in mind, typically you can sign up for free trials, cancel right away, and still test out the service for the full trial period.
Open the Settings app on your iPhone
Tap your name at the top
Now choose Subscriptions
At the top, you'll see your active subscriptions, and below you can view expired/canceled ones
Tap a subscription to cancel it or see more details
If you use Family Sharing, subscriptions that were started under a family member's Apple ID won't show up on your Apple ID, you'll need to look at theirs
Here's how it looks to manage Apple and App Store subscriptions on iPhone:
manage Apple App Store subscriptions
When you tap on a subscription for more details, you can see how much you're paying, how long until the next payment/renewal, check out other plan options, and cancel your subscription.
Along with checking if any Family Sharing connected accounts have subscriptions, you may want to check any other Apple IDs you've used in the past.
If you're having trouble with an App Store subscription, made a purchase by accident, or have other questions, you can get in touch with Apple support at 1-800-APL-CARE in the US or use Apple's support website.
Apple's macOS Sequoia finally makes importing passwords into iCloud Keychain less of a pain with its new Passwords app
by Oliver Haslam, imore
When Apple announced macOS Sequoia at WWDC on June 10 there was a lot to take in, and that was even before the company took the wraps off Apple Intelligence. Some of the new features are bigger than others, but one new change that I think might have an outsized impact on the way people use their Apple devices from this fall is the arrival of a popular password manager.
Sure, iCloud Keychain is nothing new and it's been a solid option for people who want to sync passwords, passkeys, and notes between devices for years. But it's always felt like something of an afterthought for Apple with the company hiding it deep inside the Settings app on iPhone and iPad and the System Settings app on the Mac. Some people, including yours truly, resorted to using a shortcut to more quickly access the potion of settings that houses passwords. But no more.
An actual, bona fide Passwords app is coming to the Mac as well as the iPhone and iPad via iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 respectively. But just having an app that you can tap on your Home Screen or in the Dock is just one part of the improvement here. The other, we've found, is a much-improved method for importing passwords from other services and apps like 1Password and LastPass.
Import all the passwords
Switching password managers isn't something that most people do lightly — I made the move from 1Password to iCloud Keychain myself not that long ago. Doing so involved exporting all of my passwords from the former via the ubiquitous and surprisingly powerful CSV file before importing it into the latter. But actually doing that is something I am willing to bet a whole lot of people don't even realize is an option.
How to customize the start page in Safari to make the Mac browser more personal
by Dennis Sellers, rocketyard
I suspect that most Mac users prefer to use Safari as their default web browser as it's easy to use and easy to customize. For instance, you can customize your start page as of Safari 14 and later.
To create your own start page:
Launch Safari.
Choose Bookmarks > Show Start Page.
Click the Options button in the bottom-right corner of the window.
Options button
Now you can choose form these options:
Options
Use Start Page on All Devices: This sets up the same start page settings on your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, and devices as well as your Mac. Well, if you're signed in to all your gadgets with the same Apple ID as on your Mac, have Safari turned on in iCloud settings, and have two-factor authentication on all your Apple devices.
Tab Group Favorites: This shows websites you've added as favorites to the selected Tab Group.
Recently Closed Tabs: This option shows websites from tabs you've recently closed in the selected Tab Group.
Favorites: This shows websites from the bookmarks folder you've chosen in General settings.
Frequently Visited: This option shows, well, website you're recently visited.
Shared with You: This displays videos, news stories, and other links that folks shared with you using the Messages app. (To see items in Shared with You, make sure Safari is selected in the Shared with You pane of Messages settings. And you'll only see items shared with you by people who are in your contacts in the Contacts app.
Siri Suggestions: This shows suggested websites found in Messages, Mail, and other apps.
Reading List: This shows webpages you've added to your list for reading later.
Privacy Report: Apple is big on privacy, of course, and this shows a privacy summary. You can click on it to see who Safari blocked form tracking you.
iCloud Tabs: This allows you to show webpages open on your other Apple devices. Once again, you have to be signed in to your other Apple devices with the same Apple ID as on your Mac and have Safari turned on in iCloud settings.
Once you've selected the options you wish, you can choose an image, or choose one of your photos for a background image. Here's how:
Click the Options button in the bottom-right corner of the window.
Click the Background Image option.
Background Image
If the first option shows an Add button, click it to choose one of your photos by navigating to your Photos album. If the first option shows a previously chosen photo, click the Close button to choose a different photo. You can also drag a photo onto the start page.
Now you can drag your start page options into the order you want them to appear.
What is Passwords for iOS, iPadOS, and macOS? Here's what Apple's new app can do for you
by Lloyd Coombes, imore
While iPhone mirroring and Apple Intelligence are likely to be the headline features of macOS Sequoia, there's plenty more in the latest version of macOS that's worth a look.
One of those is the arrival of a Passwords app, which is also available across iOS 18 and iPadOS 18, which finally pulls passwords out of the depths of System Settings and makes them easier to access while keeping them secure.
What is the Passwords app?
As the name suggests, Passwords pulls together all of your login information, including Passkeys, Wi-Fi networks, and much more into one centralized app.
From there you can scan for the ones you need, autofill them, or create randomly generated ones to avoid reusing the same login information for multiple accounts.
The Passwords app is available as part of iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia, but there's also a handy Safari and Chrome extension to bring it into your browser, too, and it runs on Windows via the iCloud for Windows app.
What can the Passwords app do?
Apple's Passwords App (Image credit: Apple)
Your Passwords app will automatically import the passwords you previously kept within the System Settings on your Mac (or iPhone/iPad), so you won't need to re-enter them.
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Upon setup, you're given the option to install the relevant browser extension, too, but right off the bat the app is easy to use.
On the left, you'll find the following categories:
All - for a full list of every password in the app
Passkeys - for data secured with biometric login information like Face ID or Touch ID
Codes - for account information secured with number codes like you'd find on something like Google Authenticator or Authy
Wi-Fi - for stored Wi-Fi network information
Security - for security recommendations (more on that in a moment)
Deleted - for passwords you've deleted in the last 30 days
It's a pretty comprehensive list, and all of the data in each category is synced across platforms, so you can save your password once and never need to enter it again. Similarly, you can edit a password once and know it's been updated everywhere.
Security Recommendations explained
Passwords App on iPad (Image credit: Apple)
If you've used something like 1Password, think of the Security tab as being akin to Watchtower.
In our testing of the beta, the Mac version of Passwords didn't highlight any potential security issues, which is good to know, but it can flag duplicate passwords, or potential appearances of your data that have been found in data breaches.
It's not quite as detailed as 1Password (at least not yet), which offers a quick rundown of accounts you can move to Passkeys or add 2FA for, but it's a really solid start that should help users understand better password habits.
How are passwords stored?
Apple has been leaning on its Keychain technology for over two decades now, with the encrypted container the place where the company stores your most personal data. This is synced across iCloud, which is itself protected by encryption.
Put simply, your saved passwords within the app will be under lock and key, and in our testing, the Mac app does a great job of locking itself as soon as it thinks your attention has moved elsewhere.
Sharing Passwords
While you can always copy and paste passwords, even with iMessage encryption it's best to avoid doing so.
With the Passwords app, you can create a sharing group for Passwords and Passkeys with trusted contacts that will then sync across their devices. This could be useful for, say, sharing utility bill information with a housemate, or banking information with a spouse.
You can choose what to share and rescind it at any time, too, so you're always in control of what's being shared at any time.
What about existing password managers?
Apple has been accused of "Sherlocking" apps like 1Password with the arrival of the Passwords app, and there are definitely similarities. Even the app layout, for example, looks a lot like many third-party options.
Still, at the time of writing, Apple's app doesn't have the option to save payment card information. While that makes sense for something like your iPhone where you may prefer to use Apple Pay, it could cause issues if you want to quickly summon your card number while on, say, a Windows PC.
You also can't store notes in it the way you can with 1Password, although Apple's own Notes app is a great alternative with notes you can lock.
How to use Apple Maps topographic hiking trails, customize, save offline, more.
by Michael Potuck, 9to5mac
Apple Maps is upgraded with topographic hiking trails in iOS 18, iPadOS 18, watchOS 11, and macOS Sequoia. The feature offers detailed planning and guidance for custom hikes, the ability to save the maps offline, elevation details, and more. Here's how to use Apple Maps topographic hiking trails.
Apple has been expanding Maps and navigation features over the years with capabilities
like cycling routes, more transit choices, wayfinding, and more.
Now for 2024, the upcoming fall software updates bring a handy new feature for hikers and runners.
Support for the new topographic hiking trails is available now in the beta releases when searching national parks as well as for other marked trails/trailheads in Apple Maps.
How to use Apple Maps topographic hiking trails
You can create custom topographic hiking trail maps on iPhone, iPad, or Mac and use them on iPhone and Apple Watch
Make sure you're running the iOS 18 beta, watchOS 11 beta, or macOS Sequoia beta (full guide)
Open the Apple Maps app on iPhone, iPad, or Mac
Search for a trail or trailhead or a national park (all 63 US national parks are supported for topographic trail details)
Look for the Trailheads/Trail button in the search results > choose a trail or trailhead
Tap the new Plan a Hike button
Tap on the screen where you'd like to go
You'll see the distance and elevation change
Now you can choose to Reverse the hike, create an Out & Back map, or Close Loop
When you're all set, choose Save to keep the route
You can give a custom name, now tap Done in the top right corner (topographic hike trail maps are automatically saved to your iPhone for offline use)
Now you can tap Directions to use the guidance
Find your saved trail maps by tapping your profile picture in the Maps app > Offline Maps
Here's how it looks to use Apple Maps topographic hiking trails on iPhone:
Apple includes Yelp ratings for trails.
Here's how it looks to choose a trail and plan a custom route. Tip: after tapping "Plan a Hike" zoom in on the map to more easily plan your route.
use Apple Maps topographic trails 2
Shown above, you can see the total distance, estimated hike time, elevation change, and some buttons to more easily create your route.
After hitting the Save button, you'll see a notification that the route/map has been saved for offline use.
Tap your profile picture > Offline Maps to get back to your saved routes/maps.
Are you excited to use the new Apple Maps topographic hiking trail feature? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Apple offers a first look at upcoming Messages via satellite feature
by Amber Neely, appleinsider
One of the new features coming to iPhone this fall is the ability to send text messages via satellite — here's what you can expect.
On Monday, Apple held its annual keynote for WWDC. The event gave developers and Apple fans alike a look at what is coming down the pipeline for Apple's next line of operating system releases.
As expected, a portion of the two-hour keynote focused on what Apple would introduce with iOS 18. One such feature is Apple's new Messages via satellite, which will allow users to send both iMessage and SMS-based texts when they do not have Wi-Fi or cellular service.
CNET met with Apple's senior director of platform marketing, Kurt Knight, to learn more about the feature.
Knight suggests that the feature would be especially useful for checking in with friends and family members when you may be in an area that doesn't have especially robust service, like on a hike.
And the messages do not need to be emergency-related, either. They are free to text away about their day as they would any other conversation.
Knight demonstrates that once your iPhone detects that you don't have cellular or Wi-Fi service, it'll send you a lock-screen alert that prompts the user to connect to a satellite to check for and send messages.
From there, iOS 18 will show users what services they can use while in satellite mode. This includes sending and receiving Messages, updating their Find My location, requesting Roadside Assistance, and contacting emergency services.
Once you select that you'd like to use Messages via satellite, the iPhone will guide you to getting properly positioned. And, once you're aligned properly, it works just like any other Messages conversation. If the satellite moves position, your iPhone will prompt you to realign yourself to continue the service.
Hand holding a smartphone displaying a conversation about satellite messages, with a 'Turn Right to Find Satellite' notification at the top of the screen.
Image Credit: CNET
Interestingly enough, the rules between iMessage and SMS are a little different. While you can freely send and receive iMessages, you'll need to first initiate conversations that require SMS.
Apple says this is because many automated promotional messages are sent via SMS, and it could cause too much congestion to the service if they were allowed to flow freely.
Currently, RCS messages, which will be supported in iOS 18, will not be supported for Messages via satellite. Apple says that this is because the RCS protocol isn't optimized to a size that works over satellite.
Like Emergency SOS via satellite, Messages via Satellite will be restricted to the iPhone 14 and later. Knight points out that the service will first roll out to customers in the U.S. and will roll out to other countries over time.
CNET notes that the feature is free — for now. Apple has said it has plans to charge for the service eventually but has not made the switch yet.
Here's how to turn on iPhone Eye Tracking in iOS 18
by Michael Potuck, 9to5mac
iOS 18 includes several new accessibility features for iPhone with the headlining one being the ability to control the smartphone with just your eyes. Whether you have an accessibility need or just want to tinker with the new feature, here's how to turn on iPhone Eye Tracking in iOS 18.
Apple puts a lot of effort into making iPhone and its other devices accessible to all users. With iOS 18, new possibilities are unlocked with Eye Tracking, Music Haptics, and Vocal Shortcuts.
iOS 18 accessibility features hailed as life-changing by disability campaigner
Apple previewed the new iOS 18 accessibility features in May and now you can test them out with the iOS 18 beta.
How to turn on iPhone Eye Tracking in iOS 18
To get the best results, Apple recommends setting up Eye Tracking with your iPhone on a stable surface roughly 1.5 feet away from your face.
Make sure you're running the iOS 18 beta on your iPhone (full guide)
Open the Settings app
Tap Accessibility
Swipe down and choose Eye Tracking (under Physical And Motor)
Tap the toggle to turn on Eye Tracking
Follow the calibration process where you track a colored circle around the screen with your eyes
Dwell Control will automatically be turned on after completing the Eye Tracking setup.
With Dwell Control, maintaining your gaze still for a specified duration will perform the selected dwell action. To customize, go to Dwell Control settings within AssistiveTouch.
When AssistiveTouch is enabled (you should be prompted to connect Eye Tracking/Dwell and Assistive Touch), you can use Eye Tracking to lock your iPhone, go to the Home Screen, scroll, and more.
Here's how it looks to turn on iPhone Eye Tracking in iOS 18:
After finishing the calibration, you may be asked if you'd like to use Dwell and Scroll with AssistiveTouch for more functionality.
turn on iPhone Eye Tracking how to 2
That's it! You should be all set to control iPhone with Eye Tracking. As shown above, you'll see a white outline around the button/app/area you're focusing on when Eye Tracking is in use. Hold your focus (Dwell) to select something.
And you can still use your touchscreen while using Eye Tracking.
If your Eye Tracking doesn't feel accurate or responsive, try setting it up again with your iPhone on a stand with your face ~1.5 feet away.
How to contact emergency services via satellite with iPhone 14 and iPhone 15
by Ed Hardy, cultofmac
If you can't connect to cellular networks to call for help, step into a clearing to use Apple's Emergency SOS via satellite service
Photo: Apple
If you own an iPhone 14 or iPhone 15, it's time to test one of its best abilities: Apple's Emergency SOS via satellite service. This allows users of these iOS handsets to exchange messages with emergency services while outside of cellular and Wi-Fi coverage.
Getting a compatible iPhone in contact with a satellite isn't complicated. But it's something users should know how to do before they need this potentially lifesaving feature.
Here's how to use the iPhone's Emergency SOS via satellite feature.
Never be out of touch with iPhone satellite SOS
Apple's Emergency SOS via satellite service is for hikers, climbers, hunters, boaters and anyone traveling through remote areas. It has been credited with speeding the rescue of people stranded in the far reaches of Alaska and the Canadian wilderness. It gives iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 users emergency access to help. And it has to be a real emergency — forgetting to record a football game doesn't qualify.
The iPhone satellite connection service will not activate when you can get a cellular connection. If you have bars, you should call or text for emergency help — use 911 or your local equivalent.
Note: Apple plans to expand the use of this technology in iOS 18. iPhone users will be able to send text messages via satellite to friends and family members in the updated Messages app later this year.
Get started with Apple's Emergency SOS via satellite service
If you can't connect to cellular networks to call for help, step into a clearing to use Apple's Emergency SOS via satellite service
Photo: Apple
If you're lost, stranded or injured in a location so remote there's no other way to get help, it's time to use your iPhone's Emergency SOS via satellite feature. Start by going to an open area. Your handset can communicate with a satellite, but just barely. Trees and buildings interfere with the signal.
Squeeze the sides of your iPhone to press the power and volume up buttons at the same time. This opens a screen that, among other options, includes Emergency Call. Swipe to the right. In the United States, an attempt to call 911 with no cell service will bring up the option to use satellite SOS.
It's not a phone call
You'll need to answer a series of questions about the nature of your emergency.
Photo: Apple
The iPhone isn't a true satellite phone, so you can't make an emergency voice call with a satellite in orbit. The iOS handset can only exchange messages using Apple's Emergency SOS via satellite service … and it can only do so slowly.
The process is difficult enough that you're not put into direct contact with emergency services. Instead, your iPhone will ask you a series of questions to determine what kind of help you require. Do you need a paramedic to be airlifted into the wilderness or simply a tow truck? The information will go to centers staffed by Apple-trained specialists who call for help on your behalf. It's these people that you will be exchanging text messages with, not police, hospital, park rangers, etc.
Now find a satellite with your iPhone's prompts
Your iPhone will show clear instructions on how to find a satellite.
Photo: Apple/Cult of Mac
Once you've entered the details of your emergency, it's time to send them via satellite using Apple's Emergency SOS via satellite. Satellite phones traditionally require bulky external antennas, something the iPhone obviously does not possess. Apple compensated by showing users where they need to point the handset in order to make a connection with a satellite in low-Earth orbit.
Only after making the satellite connection will your first emergency text message go out. And you must keep the iPhone pointed at the satellite all through this process. Don't worry, the app shows you where to point.
In my test of the system, my iPhone located a satellite in only a few seconds. On-screen prompts told me where to point the handset to make a connection, and then kept me pointed in exactly the right direction.
Test it for yourself
If you plan to head out to the back of beyond, I highly recommend you test the Emergency SOS via satellite service on your iPhone first. It's not the sort of thing you want to figure out while you're 15 miles into the desert and nursing a broken leg.
To do so, just open your iPhone's Settings app and go to Emergency SOS. Then scroll down to the Emergency SOS via Satellite section and tap on Try Demo. It will simulate the process so your first time using the service won't happen during a real emergency.
Who can use Apple's Emergency SOS via satellite service on iPhone?
Any of the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 models running can connect to a satellite for emergency communication. The feature is not limited to the Pro versions. The service debuted in November 2022 in the United States and Canada on supported devices running iOS 16.1 or later. Then it became available in the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Ireland in December 2022 (iOS 16.2 or later). And it came to Austria, Belgium, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and Portugal in March 2023 and Australia and New Zealand in May 2023 (iOS 16.4 or later).
The need for call centers staffed by Apple-trained specialists to handle communication between iPhone users and emergency services is why Emergency SOS via satellite isn't already available everywhere on earth. Apple needs to set up these centers and hire staffers for every country where the service will be available.
Apple TV+ shows and movies: Everything to watch on Apple TV Plus
by Benjamin Mayo, 9to5mac
Apple TV+ offers exclusive Apple original TV shows and movies in 4K HDR quality. You can watch across all of your screens and pick up where you left off on any device. Apple TV+ costs $9.99 per month. Here's every Apple original television show and movie available now on Apple TV+, as well as the latest trailers …
Apple TV+ content is available exclusively through the Apple TV app. You can watch on your Apple TV set-top box, iPhone, or iPad as you might expect.
But you don't need the latest Apple TV 4K to enjoy Apple TV+. The TV app is also available on other platforms like Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Sony PlayStation, Xbox, and even the web at tv.apple.com.
Apple TV+ offers original comedies, dramas, thrillers, documentaries, and kids shows.
For your $9.99/month subscription, you can watch all of Apple's originals — as listed below. You can download to watch offline too. Apple is adding new content every single month.
Apple Watch is getting its yearly feature infusion this fall with tons of updates. Here are our new favorite abilities in watchOS 11.
Each year, most of the world's attention gets laid on iOS which is especially true this year with the addition of Apple Intelligence. But Apple's wrist-worn computer is poised for a big year, too.
If you keep losing your phone, perhaps you should attach it to the wall.
Q&A: The Future of Cybercrime
from Charles Schwab brokerage
Artificial intelligence is quickly reshaping cybercrime. Here, two cybersecurity experts discuss the future of internet fraud and what individuals can do to keep their data safe.
Developments in artificial intelligence (AI) are changing the way cybercriminals operate—and the ways in which companies and governments respond to evolving threats. At the same time, other technologies once limited to the world of science fiction are opening the door to a new generation of cyberattacks.
As cyberscams become more sophisticated, what can individuals do to avoid becoming victims of fraud? We brought these questions to Robert Tripp, special agent in charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation's San Francisco field office, and Jeff Tricoli, Schwab's head of technology risk management.
What cyberthreats keep you up at night?
Robert: AI is really empowering cybercriminals to attack us as individuals. They develop rapport and trust with their victims, manipulating them into giving up confidential or personal information. Many fraudsters don't speak English as a first language, but with AI, they can come across as completely fluent and can pull off fraud at scale.
Jeff: It's now as simple as asking an AI chatbot to create an email or a text message with a certain tone, like that of a customer service representative asking you to reset a password. It's becoming increasingly difficult for folks to distinguish between an authentic and a fraudulent message.
That sounds scary. How worried should we be?
Robert: The good news is that while AI is an effective offensive weapon, it's also enabling equally effective defensive weapons. The private sector has a fairly substantial advantage over cybercriminals and can develop its own tools to specifically address these abuses. In fact, an AI-enabled defensive tool can detect anomalies far better than most humans can.
Jeff: Businesses are building AI technology into many of the tools they use to identify patterns that might indicate someone has stolen your password, such as unusual login times or locations. At Schwab, we also have a robust cybersecurity intel team constantly monitoring the dark web and elsewhere for emerging threats and trends—and developing strategies to counteract them.
How can individuals protect themselves against these sophisticated scams?
Jeff: Oftentimes these messages are designed to elicit fear and urgency—which in the moment can cloud our judgment. So . . . take a deep breath. If a message is purportedly from your bank or credit card provider, reach out directly to the number on the back of your credit or debit card to confirm what's going on. Or go to the bank and talk to someone in person.
On the prevention front, you can register a security freeze with all three credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—so no one can open a line of credit in your name. It's a good defense, but you'll want to evaluate your needs before taking such action—especially if you tend to open lines of credit regularly.
Robert: Be diligent about protecting your identifying information, such as your Social Security number. Be cautious about putting your photo or voice on social media accounts. And if you receive an email or text that seems even slightly odd, do not click on any links and be wary of even responding. Once you start a conversation with a potential fraudster, it's amazing what they can elicit from you.
Six ways to fight fraud
The technology to protect your data already exists—but it works only if you implement it. Here are six lines of defense to get you started:
Use a password generator to create a unique, complex password for each account, which is stored behind a single master password. Your browser may offer this, but there are also stand-alone apps that work across browsers and operating systems.
Enable two-factor authentication, especially on sensitive accounts. If someone gets your password, they won't be able to access your account without an additional temporary code, which you'll receive by email, phone, or text.
Avoid using public Wi-Fi, since public networks are often unsecured and therefore vulnerable to hacks.
Update your apps and operating system—ideally automatically—since software updates often include security patches for newly identified vulnerabilities.
Set a one-year, renewable fraud alert that requires credit agencies to verify your identity before extending credit in your name. You can contact any one of the three major credit reporting bureaus to set up the alert, and it will inform the other two of your request.
Freeze your credit, which goes one step further than an alert, to prevent new accounts from being opened in your name. (You can easily unfreeze it if you want to apply for credit yourself.) Consider doing this also for your minor children, since clean credit records are ripe targets for criminals.
Beyond AI, what novel threats are on your radar?
Robert: Quantum computing, which is based on the principles of quantum physics, is a big one; it's much faster, nimbler, and more powerful than classical computing. While classical computers would take years to break the encryption protecting much of our personal data, quantum computers could theoretically do it in hours. That's truly concerning.
Jeff: Based on what researchers are saying, the ability to crack encrypted data with quantum computing might happen within 10 to 15 years. But part of what some bad actors are doing now is scooping up as much encrypted information as possible. They can't crack the encryption codes today, but they can store captured data until the quantum technology becomes available to access it.
So, is the security of our personal data doomed?
Robert: When I talk about quantum computing, I always emphasize that the threat is currently only theoretical. That said, large organizations and nation-states are aware of the danger of quantum computing and are developing ways to defend against its misuse. For individuals, this technology is so nascent that there are many more immediate concerns we should all guard against.
Jeff: This has always been a cat-and-mouse game. The bottom line is that there are cybersecurity professionals at Schwab and elsewhere who are keeping abreast of quantum computing and other emerging threats and crafting appropriate countermeasures. You'll never fully stamp out digital attacks—but you can stay a step ahead.
Scam email to look like it is from PayPal Notice the From Address
Another one Not from PayPal Notice the From Address
iPhone email - NOT from FedEx! Phishing - do not click!
NOT Norton! This popped up in my browser but I do not have Norton. DO NOT CLICK!
Internet Crime
Any one bothered by internet criminal activity should report it to the Federal Bureau of Investigation Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at this web page. This includes phishing, malware, spoofing, any demand for money.
With new products and Apple's new operating system, Mac OS 15 (comping out this fall), is it time to replace your computer? I read an article that the main features of Mac OS 15 will be the Artificial Intelligence (AI) enhancements. But they'll only work on Macs with the M chips. So, according to this article, if you have Mac with an Intel chip, no matter if it's only a few years old, you may as well update to a new M chip Mac if you can afford it.
I like keeping up with the new features but I also like getting full use out of a purchase before replacing it. So it's often a dilemma. More recently I use my MacBooks up until they can go longer accept the new operating systems. That's about 7 or 8 years old. Of course, if there are problems with your computer, such as lines or fuzzy displays or frequent crashing, then it's definitely time to replace it.
But I have used old Macs, and know others that still use 13 year old Macs. They still function fine. A different browser has to installed for web pages to display because Safari is updated with the operating system. Another browser, such as Firefox can be kept updated longer.
So that's one issue with older machines is that the security features are not kept up to date, and some older software begins to fail when it can't handle updated internet requirements.
Obviously it depends on what you do and want to do with your devices. If you're doing online shopping and banking and bill paying and connecting with newer iPhones, then you need to keep your computer up to date. If you want to be able to edit photos or movies without waiting on your computer in between each adjustment, you'll need to keep updated. If you mostly just read email and share an occasional photo then you can probably hold on to a Mac a few years after it can no longer be updated.
So there is still a point I have to make a decision. Providing my bank account will allow a purchase, and providing I don't have to validate my purchase with any other person 🤔, then I have to choose what specific Mac I want. Some people like the larger screens so they would look at the iMac Desktops which offer a better price per screen size. Or there is the option of the Mac Mini. Relatively inexpensive but you'll need your own monitor. So more cost for a monitor if you don't have one but also a choice of the size screen you really want.
If you do real work, maybe you're a professional like a Quantum Physicist, you might choose the Mac Studio or the Mac Pro. Most of us are stymied just trying to figure out how to possibly use all that computing power.
I like the laptops for their mobility, (mine rarely moves, it sits in one place and stays plugged in all the time!) I might save a few dollars and go with the MacBook Air this time. Apple has given the Air all the power and more that my old MacBook Pro has. Then, do I go with the M2 or M3… is it worth the extra money for the latest chip? Do I add extra memory? Some say the 8GB is not enough while others say with Solid State Drive data storage extra memory is not so important. And the biggest decision, what color do I want? Of the four color choices three of them just look like different shades of gray; Midnight, Space Gray, and Silver. Only Starlight looks a little colorful.
Well, there you have it. The whole decision process in a cracked up nutshell!
MAGIC, the Macintosh Appreciation Group of Island County, serves people who use Macintosh computers, software and peripherals. Our goal is to share information and get answers to questions to make us more productive with our use of technology. Our monthly meetings give us a chance to discuss computer problems and share ideas with other Mac users, feature speakers on specific topics, and to keep apprised of Apple news.
Apple's Passwords App
Passwords App on iPad
