Meta has announced the deployment of advanced facial recognition technology across its platforms in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The new measures aim to proactively detect and prevent “celeb-bait” scams and offer a faster, more secure method for users to recover compromised accounts.

The facial recognition system is specifically designed to identify and automatically block deceptive advertisements that misuse and alter images of public figures. These fraudulent ads often lure users to scam websites where they are prompted to share personal information or send money. By comparing images in suspicious ads against the profile pictures of celebrities and public figures on Facebook and Instagram, the system can swiftly remove confirmed instances of fraudulent content.

Importantly, Meta emphasises that any facial data generated from ads for this comparison is immediately deleted after the one-time check, regardless of a match, and is not used for any other purpose. Public figures in the MENA region will be automatically enrolled in this protection but retain the option to opt out. This initiative underscores Meta’s commitment to tackling scams that exploit the likeness of well-known individuals to deceive users.

In a parallel effort to enhance account security and recovery, Meta is introducing a video selfie verification feature. This new tool will allow users attempting to regain access to potentially compromised accounts to verify their identity by uploading a short video selfie. The system will then compare this video to the user’s existing profile pictures – a process akin to facial recognition used for device unlocking. This streamlined verification method aims to significantly reduce the time users are locked out of their accounts while providing a more robust security measure against unauthorised access compared to traditional document-based verification.

Similar to the scam detection process, Meta assures users that any facial data utilised for account recovery through the video selfie feature is deleted immediately after the verification process is complete. The data is encrypted during the process and is never retained or repurposed for any other use.

Basma Ammari, Director of Public Policy, MENA at Meta, emphasised the critical need for these measures, stating, “Scams that misuse someone’s image aren’t just misleading; they can be devastating, causing significant emotional and financial harm. We’ve heard directly from public figures and everyday users across the MENA region about the distress these scams cause. That’s why we’re investing in technologies like facial recognition to proactively catch these scams and prevent them from spreading, and enhancing our verification tools to ensure users can quickly regain access to their accounts. These updates are part of our commitment to building a safer and more trustworthy online environment, specifically addressing the growing threat of identity-based scams in the region.”

Microsoft has announced the impending retirement of Skype for Business Online, with the service set to be discontinued on May 31, 2025. This move completes a years-long transition toward Microsoft Teams as the company’s flagship communication platform.

The decision reflects Microsoft’s strategic shift toward its more modern collaboration tool, which has seen explosive growth since its 2017 launch. Teams now boasts 320 million monthly active users and offers deeper integration with Office 365, advanced AI features, and enterprise-grade security capabilities that have made it the preferred choice for business communication.

Businesses still using Skype for Business Online must complete their migration to Microsoft Teams before the May 2025 deadline. Microsoft has emphasized that this change only affects the business-oriented Skype service, while the consumer version available at skype.com will continue operating without interruption.

For organizations running on-premises Skype for Business Server deployments, the software will remain functional but will no longer receive updates after the retirement date. Microsoft is encouraging its customers to make the transition to Teams to take advantage of ongoing innovation and security updates.

To facilitate the transition, Microsoft has provided comprehensive migration resources including step-by-step guides and training materials. The company recommends that businesses begin their migration process early to ensure a smooth transition and allow adequate time for employee training on the Teams platform.

The retirement of Skype for Business Online marks the end of an era for what was once a pioneering VoIP service. Microsoft acquired Skype in 2011 for $8.5 billion, but the platform has gradually been eclipsed by more modern alternatives. While some users may feel nostalgic for the familiar interface, Microsoft positions Teams as offering significantly enhanced collaboration features that better meet the needs of modern hybrid work environments.

Apple’s latest iOS 18.4 update, released earlier this month, introduced several new features—including Siri language expansions, an Apple News recipe section, and an Ambient Music option. But for drivers, the real highlight is the trio of upgrades to Apple CarPlay, making the in-car experience smoother and more intuitive.

More Apps at a Glance (For Bigger Screens)
As spotted by 9to5Mac, iOS 18.4 now supports a third row of app icons on CarPlay for vehicles with larger infotainment displays. Previously limited to two rows, this change maximizes screen space without awkwardly enlarging icons.

Not all cars benefit yet—smaller displays (like an 8-inch screen) still show the standard two rows—but it’s a smart tweak for drivers with expansive dashboards. Less menu-swiping means more time keeping eyes on the road.

Live Sports Scores on the Go
Sports fans can now check real-time scores directly through CarPlay. While currently limited to score updates (no live streaming or play-by-play), Apple has released an API for developers, hinting at deeper sports app integration—possibly even tie-ins with Apple Sports—in future updates.

EU Drivers Can Finally Ditch Apple Maps as Default
Following regulatory pressure, EU users can now set third-party navigation apps (like Google Maps) as their CarPlay default. Just say, “Hey Siri, take me home,” and your preferred app handles the route—no extra taps needed.

Small Changes, Big Convenience
None of these upgrades reinvent CarPlay, but they refine it—prioritizing quick access, personalization, and safety. With rumors of a next-gen CarPlay still brewing, Apple seems committed to keeping its in-car system ahead of the curve. Want the latest CarPlay features? Head to Settings > General > Software Update to download iOS 18.4.