The FBI Can Activate Built-In Laptop Cameras Without Users Even Knowing

According to an allegation in a Washington Post article about the search for a bomb suspect, the FBI has found the ability of turning on your built-in computer cameras, without triggering the camera light that let’s you know it’s recording.

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Complex Reports:

According to Marcus Thomas, the former assistant director of the FBI’s Operational Technology Division, this kind of stealth spying is restricted to investigations that involve terrorism and/or the “most serious” criminal cases. But even if innocent civilians aren’t being targeted, just knowing that the agency has the technology to carry out this kind of spying is a terrifying prospect.

The newspaper also claims that the FBI uses malware to introduce surveillance software to targets’ computers. The practice was given the OK in at least one case by a federal magistrate. The same judge, however, nixed the use of sneaky camera spying on the grounds that it was “extremely intrusive” and could represent a violation of the Fourth Amendment.

Mac Miller & Pharrell’s ‘Pink Slime’ EP Is Still Happening

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Last year, we heard the announcement of a collaboration project between Mac Miller and Pharrell Williams titled Pink Slime (we even heard a track from the project)….and then everything kind of went cold (this is only speaking in terms of their collab; both artists have been pretty hot as of late).

Now, Mac Miller has rekindled the fire in a recent Rolling Stone interview:

Miller now reveals the Mac-Pharrell project is back on. “We actually just talked a couple days ago,” he tells Rolling Stone. “I’m going to go see him [in Miami] and we’re going to finish it and put it out. Because the shit’s ill and people want it. We both had pretty wild years. We gotta do it!”

The rapper anticipates Pink Slime will drop by the end of 2014. “All we gotta do it sit down for a few days and knock out songs,” he says. Recording at Williams’ studio in Miami, he adds, is a reward in itself. “It’s refreshing,” Miller explains. “[In L.A.] I’m in this dungeon, my little cave that’s this weird-ass looking place that I just live in. And then to go to Miami, it’s just so nice to see natural light and a pool and happy things. It’s good.”

Tulisa & Mike GLC Charged With Class A Drugs Offence

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From BBC News:

Singer Tulisa Contostavlos is to be charged “with being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs”, the Crown Prosecution Service has confirmed.

“We have determined that there is sufficient evidence for a realistic prospect of conviction,” Baljit Ubhey, London chief crown prosecutor, said.

The 25-year-old was arrested in June after the Sun claimed she introduced a journalist to a drug supplier.

In a statement, her lawyer said she would plead not guilty.

“In due course Tulisa will give a full answer to these allegations in court,” said Ben Rose, claiming the case had been “manufactured” by a “greedy” newspaper.

“This case is not simply about drug supply,” he went on. “It is about the limits which we set on the conduct of journalists.”

The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) has also charged Michael Coombs with supply of class A drugs.

The 35-year-old, known as rapper Mike GLC, was arrested along with Ms Contostavlos on 4 June.

“A man and a woman have today, 9 December, been charged in relation to an investigation into the supply of class A drugs,” the MPS said.

“They have been bailed to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on the 19 December.”

In its original report, The Sun claimed that half an ounce of cocaine changed hands as a result of the alleged deal.

The Sun said its investigation into the singer was “entirely justified in the public interest”.

A spokeswoman for the newspaper said: “Ms Contostavlos is a self-described role model for young people and therefore has certain responsibilities. Throughout our investigation, our team followed the Press Complaints Commission Code and then handed over our dossier of evidence to the police.

“Allegations about the conduct of this newspaper made by Ms Contostavlos’ lawyers are entirely without foundation.”

Ofei (@officialofei) – London (EP)

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A dynamic mix of R’n’B, distorted soul and unearthly gospel, Ofei’s style feels incredibly fresh and original, The London EP a manifestation of an unorthodox and unpredictable talent at work.

The London EP will be released on 12″ limited edition vinyl on 10 February 2014 with bonus track ‘Risk’. Pre-order the vinyl here.