EP 250.5 Deep Dive. Cry me an AI. The IT Privacy and Security Weekly Update for the Week Ending July 8th., 2025

Emerging Trends in Privacy, Security, and AI

Decentralized, Offline Messaging with Bitchat

Jack Dorsey’s Bitchat is a privacy-first messaging app that bypasses internet and servers, using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) mesh networking to transmit encrypted, ephemeral messages between nearby devices. It doesn’t require phone numbers, accounts, or cloud storage, and messages disappear by default. Bridge devices help extend communication range, making Bitchat ideal for secure, off-grid use.

Google Gemini AI and Privacy Risks

Gemini AI now accesses third-party app data on Android to offer personalized help, such as reading messages or travel plans. This is enabled by default, raising privacy concerns due to the opt-out model. Users can disable this by adjusting settings in the Gemini app and Android assistant preferences, protecting themselves from unwanted data sharing.

Stalkerware and the Catwatchful Data Breach

Stalkerware secretly monitors victims' phones. The Catwatchful breach exposed the inner workings of such an app, leaking over 620,000 files from thousands of Android devices. Sensitive data—including messages, calls, locations, and recordings—was compromised. The incident emphasized the dangers of covert surveillance and the importance of frequent device audits.

AT&T’s Account Lock Against SIM Swapping

To counter SIM swapping—a fraud tactic for hijacking phone numbers—AT&T introduced Account Lock. Enabled via the myAT&T app, it blocks unauthorized changes to accounts, like SIM swaps or billing info updates. Only primary and secondary account holders can manage the feature, and alerts are sent when changes are attempted.

Free IP Address SSL from Let’s Encrypt

Let’s Encrypt now offers free TLS/SSL certificates for IP addresses, a feature that previously required paid services. This allows users with static IPs to secure websites via HTTPS without needing a domain name, broadening access to internet security for individuals and small organizations.

Debate Over Artificial General Intelligence (AGI)

AGI, defined as machine intelligence equal to or exceeding human capability across tasks, remains an ill-defined concept. The lack of consensus complicates investment, regulation, and measurement in the AI field, making it difficult to assess progress or set meaningful policy benchmarks.

Microsoft’s AI-Based Layoff Support Draws Criticism

After laying off nearly 1,000 employees, Microsoft suggested affected staff use AI tools like Copilot for emotional support. This move was widely criticized as insensitive and profit-driven, spotlighting the growing unease with replacing human empathy with AI in sensitive situations.