I Tested an HDMI Adapter That Demands Your Location, Browsing Data, Photos, and Spams You with Ads

trashhalo@beehaw.org to Technology@beehaw.org – 274 points –
I Tested an HDMI Adapter That Demands Your Location, Browsing Data, Photos, and Spams You with Ads
404media.co

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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Better start training the Mentats.

It is by will alone I set my mind in motion.

It is by the juice of sapho that thoughts acquire speed, the lips acquire stains.

The stains become a warning.

It is by will alone I set my mind in motion

I used to drink a lot of juice of Sappho when I was a younger woman and it never left a stain.