Google finds security questions are crap because your answers are fake


Apple and other handset manufacturers might be trying to push users to securing their data with biometrics, but the vast majority of services still rely on the good old password. Lots of sites use the idea of memorable data either as a means of locking down accounts, or as a way to gain access to a forgotten password -- the likes of your mother's maiden name, town of birth, favorite color of underwear, and so on.
Research by Google shows that the security question system is failing, and it should come as no surprise that the blame is laid firmly at the door of the likes of you and I. We already know that people are rubbish at picking passwords, but there is also a problem with the answers they provide to security questions. Answers are either too easy for others to guess, or they are made up -- and people are forgetful buggers prone to failing to remember the answers they dreamt up.
Facebook Messenger video calling is now available worldwide

The big problem with unlimited cloud storage


By 2017, iHS iSuppli predicts there will be more than one billion personal cloud storage users around the world. Considering the purchasing power of these digital consumers, it’s no surprise that cloud storage’s biggest players are improving their systems to gain a competitive edge. The most recent upgrade -- unlimited cloud storage space.
In March, Amazon announced its own unlimited cloud storage system, situating itself as one of the market’s most affordable solutions. However, like most shiny things, the megalith’s offer is not quite as spectacular as it first appears. Why is that? Because it, like its competitors, is not truly unlimited.
Microsoft making Outlook.com prettier and more useful


I am a hardcore Gmail user, as many people are, but I am not necessarily happy about it. Why? Google's Gmail.com user interface is horrid. Sure, it is functional, but it is outdated and hardly pleasing for the eyes. It is baffling as to why Google does not update such a popular service.
Conversely, Outlook.com is a treat to use, as not only is it more functional, but prettier too. Heck, you can even use your Gmail account with the site. Today, Microsoft announces a refresh of the Outlook.com website. Not only will it be more attractive than before, but it is also gaining many new features. Excited? Me too.
Uncover website problems with Darcy SEO Checker


Search engine optimization software is usually all about keywords, helping you find what’s going to work for you, and optimizing your content and site structure to deliver better search engine rankings.
Despite its name, Darcy SEO Checker doesn’t bother with any of that, instead spidering across your site to check for HTTP error codes, URL issues, description and title problems, and more.
SURE turns your Android device into a universal remote


You can turn your tablet or smartphone into a remote and control every smart device in your home, thanks to a new app available worldwide now.
Tekoia, the provider of smart universal remote solutions for digital media, smart appliances and the Internet of Things, has announced it launched SURE globally.
Are our industrial and infrastructure systems safe from cyber threats? [Q&A]


Industrial control systems like those used to run the electricity distribution grid are vital to the economic well being of any country. But protecting those systems needs a different approach from normal enterprise security.
In the US the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) is the body charged with ensuring grid reliability. But the NERC's critical infrastructure protection (CIP) standards call for only standard firewall use. Is this putting the grid at risk from hackers or terrorists? We spoke to Andrew Ginter, vice president of industrial security at Waterfall Security Solutions to find out more.
How we’re bringing our texting habits into the workplace


SMS messages have been a part of our personal lives pretty much since mobile phones first became available. But what impact does texting have on our working lives?
Cloud communications provider RingCentral has released the results of a survey looking at how SMS is being used in the workplace.
New vulnerability affects millions of routers -- update yours right away!


A vulnerability that leaves millions of routers and other Internet-connected devices open to remote hacking and similar cyberattacks has been discovered.
Stefan Viehbock of SEC Consult Vulnerability Lab explained in his blog that a piece of proprietary software developed in Taiwan, called NetUSB, is the root of the security flaw.
Android 5.1.1 now available for Nexus 4, 5, cellular 7 and 9 -- here's how you can install it


You might think that Google will quickly update its supported Nexus devices to the latest version of Android, after releasing it. After all, the search giant controls the development of the mobile operating system and Nexus software updates. But that is not exactly the case.
Some Nexus devices -- like the second-generation Nexus 7 -- got Android 5.1.1 Lollipop last month, while other handsets -- like the 4G LTE version of Nexus 9 -- are only now receiving the software upgrade. Not a level playing field it would seem.
Xara Web Designer 11 debuts online editing


Xara Group has unveiled the latest generation of its WYSIWYG website builders, Web Designer 11 ($49.99) and Web Designer Premium 11 ($99.99).
Both editions include a beta of cloud.xara, which allows Xara sites to be viewed, edited and updated from a browser on any device.
Zotac introduces desktop-class powerhouses in its R mini PC series, launches Zbox RI323 and Zbox RI531


It wasn’t very long ago that computers used to be bulky and fill rooms and halls and sell for millions of dollars. But things have dramatically changed since. Over the years, computers have become cheaper and smaller. Today, we have plenty of computers available in a miniature form-factor sporting dirt-cheap price tag. And this new category is maturing and going mainstream.
Zotac International introduces Zbox RI323 and Zbox RI531 in its new "R" line of mini PCs. Both the models come bundled with desktop-class processors and GPUs, two DDR3-1600 slots for up to 16GB of RAM, and dual gigabit ethernet ports. But more interestingly, both models also support two 2.5-inch hard drives or SSDs in a RAID 0 or RAID 1 configuration. The Zbox RI531 model additionally equips an mSATA SSD slot. Both also support non-RAID setups, letting users choose the best storage solutions for them.
Mid-range Microsoft Surface 3 available in Europe


When Microsoft announced Surface 3, the software giant revealed that its latest Windows 8.1 slate would be offered with two main hardware configurations: 64 GB of internal storage with 2 GB of RAM, and 128 GB of internal storage with 4 GB of RAM. Either can be had with or without 4G LTE cellular connectivity.
However, what most people do not know is that Surface 3 is actually available in a third hardware configuration, which slots between the two aforementioned models. It gives users 64 GB of internal storage and 4 GB of RAM to play with. And now, this model is surfacing in Europe.
Microsoft to launch new iPhone messaging app


Microsoft is reportedly planning another messaging app for the iPhone, this time utilizing Outlook contacts without all of the formalities on email.
Spotted by Twitter user @h0x0d, Microsoft has named the app Flow and is preparing to launch it in the coming months. Instead of sending an email with titles and signatures, Flow will allow Outlook contacts to chat like they would on Facebook Messenger or any other messaging platform.
Google launches artist-inspired 'Editions' Android phone cases -- Skrillex goes first


One of the major reasons I choose Android over iOS is freedom. Not only am I free to set a default browser and default email client, but I am free to install different "launchers" to customize the experience. Manufacturers are even free to make phones of various sizes and shapes, which in turn means consumers can find the right device to meet their needs.
Following that trend of freedom and customization, Google today launches "Editions", which are artist-inspired cases for Android phones. Not only will they offer a fun and unique way to show-off your phone, but they will also grant access to exclusive artist content. The first artist is the king of dubstep, Skrillex.
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