Apple Fights Malware With “Lockdown Mode”

Apple has launched an extreme “Lockdown Mode” for iOS and MacOS that trades key features for greater security. It’s aimed mainly at people under serious risk of targeted spyware and other online threats.

According to Apple, the mode should only be necessary for people personally targeted, for example by “private companies developing state-sponsored mercenary spyware.”

When it’s launched, Lockdown Mode will have at least five effects, though more may be added later:

  • Most attachments other than images blocked in Messages, with link previews disabled.
  • Some web technologies such as just-in-time JavaScript compilation are blocked unless the user has added the site to a trusted exception list.
  • Incoming “invitations and service requests” are blocked in most apps, including FaceTime calls, from contacts the user hasn’t previously called or sent a request to.
  • Wired connections to other devices are blocked when an iPhone is locked.
  • Mobile device management is blocked and configuration profiles can’t be installed.

Apple has also announced that payouts for its existing security bounty program will be doubled to a maximum of $2 million for researchers who find a way to bypass Lockdown Mode.

 

LEGO Unveils GIGANTIC 2,807-Piece Super Mario Mighty Bowser Set

LEGO has just unveiled their upcoming Super Mario “Mighty Bowser” set, and at 2,807 pieces, it’s a big one! Unfortunately, at $270, it won’t be for everyone, but awesomeness has a price, right? Behold:

This incredible build with 2,807 bricks is not only the biggest LEGO Super Mario set for adults, but it also has controllable movements of Bowser’s head, body and tail. And that’s not all! It can even shoot a fireball, and face off with LEGO Mario, LEGO Luigi or LEGO Peach from the LEGO Super Mario Starter Courses.

The Mighty Bowser set will be available for order on October 1, 2022.

[LEGO Super Mario The Mighty Bowser]

Today’s Amazing Deals: HUGE Savings on RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Samsung 49-Inch Curved Gaming Monitor, Ultra 8K High Speed HDMI Cable, 15000mAh Power Bank, and MORE!

As we’re getting closer to Amazon Prime Day, it seems deals are getting better and better, so here are our compilation of the best online bargains we stumbled on today! Please note that Geeks are Sexy might get a small commission from qualifying purchases done through our posts (as an Amazon associate or a member of other affiliate programs.)

–EVGA Z15 RGB Gaming Keyboard, RGB Backlit LED, Hotswappable Mechanical Kaihl Speed Bronze Switches – $129.99 $39.99

–SAMSUNG 49-Inch CRG9 Curved Gaming Monitor, Black, QHD, 120Hz – $1,199.99 $899.99

–Monoprice Ultra 8K High Speed HDMI Cable – 6 Feet – Black – $13.99 $4.79

–SanDisk Ultra 3D NAND 500GB Internal SSD – $69.99 $54.99

–Fire TV Stick HD streaming device (Prime Members) – $39.99 $16.99

–Miady 15000mAh Power Bank (2-PACK) – $27.99 $22.39

–Star Wars Jedi Fallen Order – Standard – Steam PC – $39.99 $9.99

–Get 3 Months FREE to Audible Premium Plus (Audio Books) – After 3 months, $14.95/mo. Cancel anytime.

… and a lot more is available right here!

How does alcohol cause hangovers? [Science Video]

The molecule responsible for hangovers is ethanol, which we colloquially refer to as alcohol. Ethanol is present in all alcoholic beverages, and generally speaking, the more ethanol, the greater the potential for a hangover. So, how exactly does alcohol cause a hangover— and is there any way to prevent one? Judy Grisel explores the surprising ways that alcohol affects the body.

[TED Ed]