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An iPhone to HDMI adapter was discovered that, when plugged in, runs a program prompting users to download an app. This EZ Cast app collects extensive personal data and sends it to China for ad targeting. It requires location access, photos, and installs tracking cookies. The adapter appears designed to mimic official Apple products. While its intentions are unclear, it demonstrates how such devices could enable privacy risks by introducing untrusted software into a user's devices. Analysis of a similar EZCast dongle found it was vulnerable and not designed with security in mind. Reviews complain the app is useless or a scam. The adapter may have originated as unsold Amazon returns later acquired by electronics recyclers. Its existence relates to concerns about privacy and navigation issues on online marketplaces.

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[-] DeForrest_McCoy@beehaw.org 85 points 1 year ago* (last edited 1 year ago)

It's shit like this that really just makes me want to start the Butlerian Jihad for real.

[-] lauha@lemmy.one 26 points 1 year ago

You want to destroy all machines because capitalists are greedy? Shouldn't we do something about the capitalists instead, and leave innocent machines alone.

[-] jarfil@beehaw.org 4 points 1 year ago

Some post-humanist trends propose extinction as a fair way of achieving that, since it seems like greed is an inherent part of human nature.

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this post was submitted on 29 Sep 2023
285 points (100.0% liked)

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