Technology Archives — Beating Broke

Epic AI Failures of 2024: What Went Wrong?

December 6, 2024 By Teri Monroe Leave a Comment

While many of us are still fascinated by AI’s capabilities, it has let us down in many ways this year. So, what has gone wrong? While artificial intelligence has so much capacity for good, there are inherent dangers that we as a society are grappling with. AI has spread misinformation, broken our trust, and changed industries. Here, we’ll discuss six ways that AI has utterly failed us in 2024.

1. Spotify Wrapped Disappointment

AI Fails Spotify Wrapped — Image Source: Pexels

It has become a tradition to wait for the release of your Spotify Wrapped results each year. The detailed insights are fun to share with friends and see your music listening year in review. However, this year was a huge letdown. The company relied heavily on AI to generate content which fell flat. Spotify didn’t provide listeners with their top music genres or their top albums. Instead, listeners were given a “Music Evolution” list that detailed a selection of interestingly titled musical micro-genres. Mine included Mulled Cider Folk Phase, Pink Pilates Princess Strut Pop Season, and Breakup Slow Dance Country Moment. These results seemed strange and inaccurate. Some users even asked if AI hallucinated these results.

2. Taylor Swift AI-Generated Endorsement

Taylor Swift AI Fails — Image Source: Pixabay

President-Elect Trump released an AI-generated endorsement from Taylor Swift during the election. Swift responded a month later with an endorsement for Kamala Harris. She said, “It really conjured up my fears around AI and the dangers of spreading misinformation.” But this was not the first time that AI has targeted celebrities this year to promote products, scams, and fake news. Swift was also used in a deepfake video earlier this year to sell Le Creuset cookware.

3. Netflix’s What Jennifer Did Controversy

In the true crime documentary What Jennifer Did, Netflix allegedly used AI-generated images to tell the story of Jennifer Pan. Viewers say that some of the images of Pan have irregularities in her hands, and the backgrounds contain strange, unidentifiable objects. The director, Jeremy Grimaldi, denied any AI use and said that Photoshop was used to conceal the identity of the person who provided the photo. Despite the controversy, this situation begs the question: Can viewers trust documentary films?

4. New York City Chatbot Failures

A New York City chatbot encouraged small business owners to break the law. The Associated Press reported that the AI tool “falsely suggested it is legal for an employer to fire a worker who complains about sexual harassment, doesn’t disclose a pregnancy, or refuses to cut their dreadlocks.” The chatbot disclaimer now says that it can’t provide legal advice. This is a prime example of how AI can make up information when asked specific questions that it may not have the correct information to, leading to serious consequences.

5. Holiday Coca-Cola Ad

Fast Company writer Michael Grothaus wrote that he is so over AI-generated art. He explained that the Coca-Cola holiday ads used to be magical and now they are just adding to the slop. This year’s ad was a remake of the “Holidays Are Coming” ad from 1995. Except it had the common characteristics of AI-generated art that somehow just don’t relate to reality. Here’s a look at the ad in question…

6. Shrimp Jesus Images

Social Media Likes — Image Source: 123RF

Facebook has become littered with AI-generated content and images. One of the most notable from this year is images of Jesus circulating around the platform. “Shrimp Jesus” was one image that got a lot of traction. The AI image fused Jesus Christ with underwater shrimp. Other AI-generated photos of Jesus began popping up everywhere. A study from Stanford University took a deeper look into the spam and scams rampant on Facebook. It found that the AI-generated posts they analyzed received a ton of engagement from hundreds of millions of people.

Greatest AI Failures of 2024

Artificial Intelligence — Image Source: 123RF

What does this mean for the future of AI? More oversight is needed to prevent AI failures. Left unchecked, this technology can have unforeseen consequences that are far more serious than a disappointing Spotify Wrapped. Until we recognize AI’s power and complexity, failures will continue to happen. There is still a need to create better models and improve the inner workings of artificial intelligence before it becomes something people can rely on.

Have you experienced any AI failures? Let us know in the comments.

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Teri Monroe

Teri Monroe started her career in communications working for local government and nonprofits. Today, she is a freelance finance and lifestyle writer and small business owner. In her spare time, she loves golfing with her husband, taking her dog Milo on long walks, and playing pickleball with friends.

Are Your Devices Spying on You? The Truth About Being Tracked

December 3, 2024 By Teri Monroe Leave a Comment

Are your devices spying on you? The answer is yes. Your devices are full of your personal information and, oftentimes, your user data is bought and sold by third parties. In reality, your data is a goldmine of information about you and your habits. The rate at which we produce data is shocking too. According to Edge Delta’s research, the average person produces 1.7 MB per second or 6,120 MB per hour of data. Every time you share something on Instagram or stream something on Netflix, you are creating data. Beyond that, your devices have the ability to track you physically. With that in mind, here are some of the biggest threats to your privacy and how you can protect yourself.

1. Location Tracking

One of the most obvious ways your devices are spying on you is by sharing your location. Some location services make sense. Google Maps needs to know your location to give you accurate directions or your Pizza Hut app might need your location to confirm delivery or carry out. However, it seems like just about every app wants permission to access your location these days. Oftentimes, it isn’t needed and could potentially put your safety at risk. Make sure to read the fine print when agreeing to location services. You can also shut off permissions in your settings.

2. Installed Application Methods

Cell Phone Apps Are Your Devices Spying on You? — Image Source: Pexels

Your Android may be snooping on you without your knowledge. Many developers use installed application methods or IAMs to see the data stored by other apps on your phone. Researchers explain that more than 50% of apps in the Google Play Store use IAMs. IAMs are usually used for debugging purposes and can be useful, but this information can also provide developers with intimate details about your life. For iPhone users, the same is true but in general, Apple has stricter privacy control policies than Android.

3. Website Cookies

Many of us are aware that our browsing history is tracked by stored cookies. When you visit a new website, you may have seen a pop-up asking you to accept that your cookies are being used. If you accept, your data and activity on that site are stored and can be accessed by the website operator. Cookies are most often used for targeted advertising. They also allow for your login information, shopping carts, and searches to be stored. You can always opt out of cookies when you visit a new site to keep your data safe.

4. Microphone and Camera Access

While your camera and microphone aren’t actively spying on you, they can be hacked. A red flag is if your camera light turns on when you’re not using it. Hackers can record you or listen in without your knowledge. The best way to protect yourself is to cover your camera when not in use, keep your anti-virus software up-to-date, and manage permissions to your camera with caution. One of the most notable cases of hacking involved Ring doorbells. The FTC settled a lawsuit this year with Ring “over charges the company allowed employees and contractors to access consumers’ private videos and failed to implement security protections, enabling hackers to take control of consumers’ accounts, cameras, and videos.”

5. Physical Security

Your devices have the keys to all your information. If you lose your smartwatch or cell phone, anyone could have access to sensitive details like passwords, schedules, and more serious info. It may sound like common sense, but using a lock screen password, face ID, or Touch ID on your devices could save you from trouble in the future. If you do lose your phone, you can use Find My Device if you have an Android. Find My iPhone is available for Apple users. You should also report your phone as stolen if it goes missing. This way, you can be proactive about protecting your information.

Your Devices Are Spying on You But You Can Take Control

In a world where privacy is never guaranteed, it’s important to protect yourself. Your devices are spying on you. Ultimately, the more data you share, the more vulnerable you will be. While it may seem impossible to keep a low profile, you can limit the amount of data you share. Just be sure to manage permissions, use strong passwords, limit cookies and data sharing, and always read privacy agreements.

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Teri Monroe

14 Things Most People Only Do If They’re Digital Nomads

June 10, 2024 By Alyssa Serio Leave a Comment

Almost everyone uses a laptop, smartphone, Bluetooth speaker, or other tech gadget during the day. This has led to the rise of digital nomads. These wayward wanderers adopt unique habits and practices to accommodate their mobile, tech-heavy lifestyle. Here are fourteen things digital nomads do, showcasing the rise of technology and the need to stay connected on the go.

1. Work from Cafés and Co-working Spaces

Digital nomads often use cafés and co-working spaces as their offices. These environments offer reliable Wi-Fi, networking opportunities, and a change of scenery from the usual work-from-home setup. These lively cafés are perfect for those who need a semi-structured environment to stay productive but can’t stay focused at home. Plus, they usually sell delicious coffee, breakfast sandwiches, and baked treats.

2. Live in Short-Term Rentals

Unlike most people who sign year-long leases or own their homes, a digital nomad tends to live in short-term rentals. Whether for work or just because they like a change of scene, they hop around from place to place, sometimes more than once in a given year. Services like Airbnb or local vacation rental businesses cater to this need, offering more flexibility and less commitment. Some nomads use it as an excuse for a nice vacation.

3. Own Minimalist, Multipurpose Clothing

Traveling light is essential. Rather than shelling out for the latest trendy shirts and shoes, nomads have minimalist wardrobes. They own a few versatile and suitable pieces that can work for professional or casual settings and in various climates. Clothing items that can be layered, dressed up, or down, and are durable and easy to care for are staples in a nomad’s suitcase.

4. Use Virtual Mail Services

For the most part, these nomadic techy people do not have a fixed address. For that reason, they rely on virtual mail services to handle them instead. These services collect mail, scan it, and send it digitally instead of putting it in the mailbox. Nomads can access their mail from anywhere in the world without needing to change their mailing address frequently.

5. Have Multiple SIM Cards

If you see someone sifting through a bunch of SIM cards, chances are they’re a digital nomad. By having these SIM cards, they can easily switch between networks. This is especially important in other countries for avoiding exorbitant roaming charges. Staying connected is crucial for a nomad’s work, so having local SIM cards helps maintain productivity and reduce costs.

6. Use International Banking Services

Managing finances across different countries can be complicated. Digital nomads often use international banking services or digital banks. These services offer low fees for foreign transactions and currency exchanges. They also make it easier to access funds anywhere while minimizing the fees typically associated with international banking.

7. Follow a Flexible Work Schedule

Do you want to work a flexible schedule? Consider becoming a digital nomad! You don’t have to work the typical 9-to-5 schedule. Digital nomads work at times that suit their current time zone and lifestyle, even if it’s at unconventional hours in the middle of the night. This gives them the freedom to travel and see sights they’ve never explored before.

8. Regularly Update Travel Documents

Because of the transient nature of their lifestyle, digital nomads need to keep travel documents current and up-to-date. This includes ensuring that passports have enough empty pages, visas are up to date, and any required travel insurance is active. By being organized, they can avoid last-minute scrambles before moving to a new destination. It also helps prevent inconveniences like missed flights.

9. Participate in Local Meetups and Events

It can be lonely to live a life always on the go. A digital nomad must find a way to be social however they can, especially when connecting about work projects. Whether it’s through business networking events or spending leisure time checking out local festivals, nomads can meet a variety of interesting people. Platforms like Meetup.com or Facebook groups also provide opportunities to meet locals and other travelers.

10. Constantly Learn New Languages

The number of multilingual people has increased over the last few decades. Living in various countries, a digital nomad is more likely to pick up the basics of local languages. This not only helps in everyday interactions but also enriches the travel experience. It’s easier to connect with local communities and cultures if you can speak their language.

11. Prioritize Data Security

Frequently using public Wi-Fi networks will put you at risk of cyber threats. To travel often for work, you must prioritize data security more than the average user. This can be done through using VPNs and secure data storage options. If you’re a nomad, take whatever precautions necessary to guard sensitive information and maintain your privacy online.

12. Develop a High Level of Self-discipline

When you’re traveling all over the world, it can be really easy to get distracted by all the new sights. To be a successful digital nomad, one must manage their own time effectively across different time zones. This requires a high level of self-discipline and self-motivation. There’s no one over your shoulder setting schedules and making sure you stick to them in the new environments you traverse.

13. Invest in Quality Tech Gear

Be ready to shell out some money if you want to live as a digital nomad. Since your work is primarily online, it’s important to invest in reliable and high-quality tech gear. This includes laptops, smartphones, noise-canceling headphones, and portable Wi-Fi devices. With these gadgets, you can work efficiently no matter your location.

14. Embrace a Global Network of Friends and Contacts

Building a global network is part of the digital nomad lifestyle. Many of these individuals forge connections with people they meet through constant travel. These friends and professional contacts are found all around the world. This not only helps in their personal lives but can also aid in their professional endeavors.

Live Like a Nomad

If you love the freedom of travel and the flexibility of remote work, then becoming a digital nomad could be a good choice. These voyeuristic individuals live a unique lifestyle, seeing sights, trying new cuisines, and learning new languages from all over the world. Just remember to adopt these practices and habits to keep up with the demands of all that movement and change. By doing so, you can balance work obligations with the enriching experiences that global travel has to offer.

Digital Nomads and 9-5 Workers: 12 Unique Lifestyle Insights

Alyssa Serio

Alyssa Serio has been a writer and editor since graduating from Aurora University in 2014. In her free time, she loves reading, playing volleyball, and watching any horror movie (even the bad ones) with her husband.