Apple reveals government data requests in transparency report

Apple published a report on its website revealing the number and type of requests for information about users and devices from governments worldwide. The figures show that the US asked for more information than any other government.

Of the 31 countries reported, the US was top of the list for the amount of information they had asked for, apparently seeking information about more than 2,000 accounts. Britain’s government, however, only asked for information over 141, Spain’s with 104 and Germany’s with 93. China, Canada and Norway each made six requests for information.

Due to strict US rules, Apple was not able to reveal precise numbers of national security orders or number of accounts that the country had asked for information about. Figures were instead given within ranges of 1,000, with Apple saying "We strongly oppose this gag order, and Apple has made the case for relief from these restrictions in meetings and discussions with the White House, the US attorney general, congressional leaders and the courts."

Microsoft warns of hacker attacks to its system

Microsoft has warned users that hackers could exploit a "vulnerability" in its operating system and that it is "aware of targeted attacks" and is investigating.

The attack could lead to hackers gaining access to user rights on affected computers. The hack could request users to preview or open an email or web content.

The issue does not affect the current version of Microsoft Windows and Office, but may affect users of Microsoft Windows Vista, Windows Server 2008, Microsoft Office 2003-2010 and Microsoft Lync.

Until the attack can be controlled, Microsoft has advised users to apply workarounds, a setting change that "does not correct the underlying issue but would help block known attack vectors before a security update is available".

Nokia plans 8-inch tablet

Nokia has revealed plans for a smaller Windows tablet to rival the Google Nexus 7 and the Apple iPad mini.

Nokia has recently unveiled its first tablet, the 10-inch Nokia Lumia 2520.

The tablet is rumoured to be in the works and has been codenamed ‘Illusionist’.

If rumours are true, it is likely that the tablet will be released in early 2014.