Google’s AI tool, Gemini, is designed with safety measures to prevent misuse. However, government-backed groups from countries like China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia have attempted to exploit it for harmful purposes. These groups, known as Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs), have used Gemini to gather information on military and intelligence targets, understand software weaknesses, and assist in coding tasks.

Additionally, Information Operations (IO) groups from these nations have utilized Gemini for translation, refining the tone of their messages, and disguising their true identities to operate secretly.

Despite these attempts, Google reports that most efforts to misuse Gemini have been unsuccessful. Many have tried to bypass Gemini’s safety protocols using known methods, but these attempts have largely failed.

This situation highlights the challenges in preventing AI misuse. While Google has been effective in stopping direct harmful actions through Gemini, malicious actors can still use the AI’s capabilities to support their activities in less obvious ways. This underscores the need for ongoing vigilance and improvement in AI safety measures.

For a more detailed understanding, you can read Google’s full Threat Intelligence Group report.

Google has enhanced the security of its log-in prompts on Android devices. Previously, when signing into your Google Account, you would receive a prompt asking, “Are you trying to sign in?” and could confirm by tapping “Yes, it’s me.”

Now, with version 25.02.34 of Google Play Services, an additional verification step is required. After confirming, you’ll be prompted to authenticate using your fingerprint, PIN, face recognition, or another two-factor authentication (2FA) method. This change aims to provide an extra layer of protection for your account.

While the added step may slightly increase the time it takes to log in, the enhanced security is a valuable trade-off. iOS users will experience a similar update, with the Google app or Gmail handling the prompt instead of Play Services.

Google is preparing to release its next mid-range smartphone, the Pixel 9a, earlier than in previous years. According to multiple sources, the Pixel 9a will be available for pre-order in mid-March 2025, with shipping and in-store availability before the end of March.

The Pixel 9a is expected to feature a 6.3-inch Actua display, the same size as the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro. Despite the larger screen and battery, the Pixel 9a will remain at $499 for the 128GB storage option, with a 256GB variant priced at $599.

In terms of design, the Pixel 9a is set to receive a significant redesign, featuring a flush camera setup. It will be available in four colors: Porcelain, Obsidian, Peony, and Iris.

The Pixel 9a will be powered by the Google Tensor G4 processor, accompanied by the Titan M2 security chip, 8GB of LPDDR5X RAM, and either 128GB or 256GB of UFS 3.1 storage. The device will also sport a 6.285-inch Actua Display with a peak brightness of 2,700 nits and HDR brightness of 1,800 nits.

This earlier release aligns with Google’s recent trend of moving up its product timelines, as seen with the August launch of the Pixel 9 series, which was earlier than the usual October schedule. Additionally, Android 16 is rumored to arrive in Q2 2025, further indicating a shift in Google’s release strategy. With these enhancements and an adjusted launch schedule, the Pixel 9a aims to strengthen Google’s presence in the mid-range smartphone market.