Category: Technology

The Perfect Rug analyzed 50 US cities to find out which ten have the most Airbnb-ready homes. The analysis includes key variables: city, state, 2023 visitation, the total number of apartment listings, the percentage of those listings available on Airbnb, and the total number of Airbnb listings.

Key insights:

• Nashville, Tennessee, has the highest number of visitors (267,000) but a relatively lower Airbnb saturation, with 48% of its apartment listings on Airbnb. 
• A new study found that Austin, Texas has the most Airbnb-ready homes, with the highest number of Airbnb listings per 1,000 visitors at 49.37.
• Portland, Oregon, has the highest percentage of apartment listings on Airbnb at 77%.

The data was compiled into a structured dataset, ensuring accuracy and consistency, and cities were ranked in descending order based on their Airbnb rentals per 1,000 visitors.

Austin, Texas, leads the list with 49.37 Airbnb rentals for every 1K visitors, the highest number of Airbnb listings in the list, making it the most Airbnb-friendly city. With 61% of its 19,830 apartment listings available on Airbnb, Austin is an undeniable hotspot for travelers looking for short-term stays. Beyond its thriving tourism sector, the city also offers a wide array of unique rental experiences, further enhancing its Airbnb appeal.

San Antonio, Texas, takes the second spot with 59% of its 10,870 apartment listings available on Airbnb. The city’s impressive Airbnb presence highlights its appeal as a destination for travelers looking for short-term rental options, making it a competitive market in Texas right behind Austin.

Portland, Oregon, ranks third with the highest percentage of apartment listings on Airbnb, at 77%. Beyond its impressive Airbnb saturation, Portland also offers a creative, laid-back vibe that’s hard to find anywhere else. Despite having fewer visitors compared to other cities, Portland’s good Airbnb market makes it a go-to destination with a strong short-term rental culture.

Charlotte, North Carolina, takes fourth place, with 62% of its apartment listings on Airbnb. While Charlotte has fewer visitors than cities like Phoenix and Nashville, its Airbnb saturation rate is higher. The city’s expanding tourism sector is well supported by a healthy number of short-term rental options, making it a popular spot for travelers seeking Airbnb stays.

Nashville, Tennessee, ranks fifth despite having one of the highest numbers of visitors among the cities studied, at 267,000. The city has the lowest percentage of Airbnb listings among the top cities at only 48%, suggesting Nashville has significant room to expand its Airbnb market. 

Cleveland, Ohio, comes in sixth, with 68% of its apartment listings available on Airbnb. Though it has fewer visitors than larger cities like Denver or Phoenix, Cleveland’s Airbnb saturation rate is higher than both. Cleveland also has more Airbnb listings (22.30) than Salt Lake City. This shows a stronger short-term rental presence relative to its visitor base.

Salt Lake City, Utah, takes seventh place, with 60% of its apartment listings on Airbnb. The city’s 21.33 Airbnb listings is slightly below Cleveland’s 22.30 but still demonstrates Salt Lake City’s solid position in the short-term rental market. Compared to Phoenix, which has 20.71 listings, Salt Lake City offers a similar level of Airbnb readiness despite attracting fewer visitors.

Phoenix, Arizona, ranks eighth. With 20.71 Airbnb rentals per 1000 visitors, Phoenix is gradually growing its short-term rental market but still has room for further expansion in its Airbnb presence.

Denver, Colorado, comes in ninth. While Denver offers fewer Airbnb listings (19.95) than cities like Austin or San Antonio, it has a similar Airbnb saturation rate to Portland, making it a competitive market in the Airbnb space.

New Orleans, Louisiana, rounds out the top ten, with 51% of its apartment listings on Airbnb. Despite attracting more visitors (averaging 271,000) than cities like Portland or Cleveland, New Orleans has fewer Airbnb listings.

A spokesperson from The Perfect Rug commented on the study: “When analyzing cities for Airbnb readiness, it’s important to focus on both the percentage of listings available and how that translates to meeting visitor demand. Cities with a higher number of Airbnb listings per visitor tend to offer more diverse accommodation options, which can enhance the travel experience.

If you’re looking to maximize your rental opportunities or find great spots for short-term stays, consider places that maintain a balance between visitor influx and the availability of listings. This can also indicate how well a city caters to tourists, making it easier to find the perfect place to stay.”

Homeowners urged to rethink their Halloween habits as crime rates spike during the spooky season

Key findings:

• Real estate experts warn that leaving indoor lights on for extended periods during and after trick-or-treating hours attracts burglars on Halloween
• They offer expert tips to protect homes during the festive season
• Experts highlight other crimes that can occur due to Halloween activities

With Halloween approaching, homeowners will need to be on the lookout for more than just trick-or-treaters. Research shows a significant 17% increase in crime-related insurance claims during this festive period, with 60% of property crimes on Halloween involving theft. 

That’s why real estate experts at SoCal Home Buyers are urging residents to be vigilant. They point out that the excitement of the season can create security risks and make homes easy targets for burglars.

The primary concern, according to SoCal, is a common but often overlooked mistake made by many homeowners during Halloween: leaving indoor lights on for extended periods after trick-or-treating hours have ended.

Doug Van Soest, Owner of SoCal Home Buyers, commented: 

“A lot of homeowners believe keeping their lights on throughout the night deters burglars, giving the illusion that residents are present, whether they’re at home or not. However, this common practice can actually backfire, especially during Halloween. Experienced burglars scout neighborhoods, looking for homes with lights constantly on late into the night. They know this is a tactic homeowners use when away, inadvertently signaling an unoccupied house.

“On Halloween, this risk is amplified. While many homes keep their exterior dark for a spooky atmosphere, interior lights left on after trick-or-treating hours stand out even more. This makes it easier for intruders to see whether anyone is moving inside, or if the home is empty.

“We recommend being strategic with your lighting, particularly on Halloween night. Both during trick-or-treating and after it ends, consider turning off most lights or using timers to create a more natural pattern. This approach is far more effective in deterring potential break-ins than leaving lights on continuously. Remember, the goal is to make your home appear lived-in and active, not just illuminated.”

Common Halloween Security Mistakes to Avoid

In addition to lighting concerns, Van Soest highlights other common Halloween-related mistakes that can attract burglars:

1. Spooky sound effects leaving windows vulnerable: While cracking windows open for atmospheric sound effects adds to the Halloween spirit, it also provides an easy entry point for intruders. Instead, consider using outdoor speakers for your spooky sounds.
2. Tempting window displays: Showcasing expensive electronics or valuables in Halloween window displays is like advertising to burglars. Keep valuable items out of sight, even during festive decorating.
3. Unsecured outdoor decorations: Large inflatable decorations or expensive outdoor displays can be tempting for thieves. Secure these items properly or bring them indoors when not in use.
4. Neglecting outdoor lighting: Dark areas around your home provide cover for burglars. Install motion-sensor lights to illuminate potential hiding spots.
5. Oversharing on social media: Posting real-time updates about your Halloween plans or vacations can alert burglars to your whereabouts. Wait until you’re at home to share your adventures online.

Van Soest emphasizes that “Homeowners should conduct a thorough security assessment before the Halloween rush. Consider upgrading to smart home security systems that allow remote monitoring and control, as these systems can provide peace of mind while you’re out trick-or-treating or attending Halloween events.”

The message from these experts is clear: don’t let the excitement of Halloween overshadow the importance of home security. 

Sources
Halloween crime statistics: Attorney Shartman. 

Why items typically not expected to be stolen are actually super popular among thieves

Key Findings:

• Expert gives insight into which unexpected items are most likely to get stolen from homes
• Surprising items include a car’s exhaust, prescription drugs and small furniture items
• Expert gives their top tips on how to secure homes

Cash, jewelry, electronics—these are the items our minds jump to when we think about what thieves are after, and the items we focus on when protecting our homes. But it turns out, thieves are actually interested in a much broader range of items. 

On average, homeowners lose $2,692 in each burglary. While cash, jewels, electronics, and clothes are popular, thieves are distressingly creative when it comes to how and what they steal from our homes. 

“As one of the largest entry points to your home, it is important to make sure the garage door is safe and reliable,” say experts at B&D Garage Doors, a premier manufacturer of secure garage doors.

Catalytic Converters

Catalytic converters are part of a car’s exhaust system. They convert harmful emissions from the car’s engine into less harmful substances before they’re ejected through the exhaust pipe. 

These converters contain several precious metals, including platinum, palladium, and rhodium. All of these metals command prices that can rival or even exceed those of gold, and the demand for them has surged globally, driving up their value and consequently increasing the incentive for their theft.

Catalytic converters are located on the underside of vehicles, usually within easy reach. 

“With minimal tools – like a saw or specialized cutting tool – a thief can remove a catalytic converter in just a few minutes,” says the B&D team. “This quick turnover means thieves can steal multiple converters in a short time, maximizing their illicit earnings. Once removed, they are virtually unidentifiable, making it nearly impossible for stolen items to be linked to a specific crime or vehicle.” 

“Ensure your car is kept safely behind your garage door to minimize risk,” they warn.

Prescription Drugs

Many prescription medications, especially those that are controlled substances like opioids, anti-anxiety medications, and stimulants, have a significant street value. These drugs can be sold at a high markup compared to their retail price, making them lucrative targets for thieves. 

Bicycles

Bicycles, especially high-end racing or mountain biking models, sometimes cost thousands of dollars. Moreover, there is a consistent demand for bicycles in both new and used markets, ensuring stolen items can be quickly and easily sold for a good price.

B&D explains that bicycles are also easier to sell than many other high-value items as they can be offloaded in numerous ways: through online marketplaces, at pawn shops, via second-hand dealers, or through informal exchanges. “As they are often kept within a garage, having a garage that locks shut is paramount to protecting your bikes from would-be thieves,” B&D comments. 

Furniture

Some pieces of furniture, especially those that are antique, designer, or part of limited edition collections, can fetch high prices on the resale market. In particular, items that can be easily disassembled or small enough to move quickly, such as chairs, stools, and small tables, are especially at risk. 

“Opportunistic thieves can take advantage of moves, estate clearances, or more easily accessible locations like garages or storage units, which is why it is important to have full control over the operation and monitoring of your garage door,” B&D comments. 

Personal Documents

Unlike physical items, personal documents can be sold on dark web marketplaces where they’re in high demand. The relative ease of transferring these documents anonymously online makes them highly attractive to thieves.

The experts at B&D Garage Doors commented:

“Homeowners can significantly enhance their security and deter potential burglars by adopting a layered approach to home security. Physical barriers, like strong doors with deadbolt locks, window locks, and security bars, can make forced entry challenging. High-quality, durable garage doors can prevent intruders from breaking in easily.

“A garage door system that integrates with smartphones, allowing you to monitor your home remotely, will be a large deterrent.  Simple solutions like these can significantly strengthen a home’s security profile and protect against potential burglaries.”

Sources

Average cost of a burglary statistic: Forbes.

• A recent study analyzed apps in four main categories – communication, navigation, work, and social media – to identify how much data volume grows over time. 
• During the past ten years, the average file size of Video Games has changed from 45 MB to 1955 MB, the biggest increase among apps.
• Video Games expanded their file size by 40 times.

A recent study by TRG Datacenters aimed to identify how much data volume grows over time by collecting apps in four main categories—communication, navigation, work, and social media. The download sizes of these apps were traced over time using the Wayback Machine. The study also gathered data on the most sold phones from 2014 to 2024, focusing on their photo, video, and non-expandable memory characteristics. By calculating the average non-expandable memory and the sizes of photos and videos, the study compared these sizes over the years to determine the file size change both in megabytes (MB) or gigabytes (GB) and as a percentage.

Video Games

Type of data – Entertainment
Overall Change – 4344%

From 2014 to 2024, video game file sizes have grown dramatically, increasing from 45 MB to a peak of 2000 MB in 2024. This represents a 4344% increase, with the most significant jumps occurring after 2017. This sharp rise highlights the growing complexity and enhanced graphics of video games, which demand much larger storage space over time.

Photos

Type of data – Entertainment, Work
Overall Change – 217%

The average file size of photos has seen a moderate increase from 3 MB in 2014 to a peak of 9.5 MB in 2023 before slightly decreasing to 7 MB in 2024. As a result, the app saw a 217% growth throughout the ten years, reflecting advancements in camera technology.

Videos

Type of data – Entertainment, Work
Overall Change – 733%

The file size of videos per minute has grown from 60 MB in 2014 to 500 MB in 2024, a 733% increase. This growth is primarily due to the transition from lower resolution to 4K and even higher video quality, requiring more storage capacity for each minute of footage.

Facebook

Type of data – Entertainment, Social Media
Overall Change – 650%

Facebook’s file size grew from 40 MB in 2014 to a peak of 300 MB in 2024, a 650% increase. This significant growth emphasizes the platform’s expansion in functionalities, including video streaming, marketplace, and more sophisticated social networking features.

Twitter/X

Type of data – Entertainment, Social Media
Overall Change – 367%

Twitter’s file size increased by 367%, from 30 MB in 2014 to a peak of 140 MB in 2024. This growth highlights the platform’s evolution in handling richer media content, including videos, images, and live-streaming features.

Instagram

Type of data – Entertainment, Social Media
Overall Change – 456%

Instagram saw a 456% increase in file size, growing from 45 MB in 2014 to a peak of 250 MB in 2024. This rise reflects the app’s shift toward more visually intensive content, such as high-resolution photos, videos, and stories.

Average Non-Expandable Memory

Type of Data – Available Storage On Mobile Device 

Overall change – 2300%

The average non-expandable memory of devices has increased by 2300%, from 16 GB in 2014 to a peak of 384 GB in 2024. This exponential growth highlights the increasing demands of apps, media, and data storage over time, necessitating larger internal storage capacities in modern devices.

A spokesperson from TRG Datacenters commented on the study: “This evolution is not just about adding more features; it’s about enhancing the overall experience with richer content and stronger functionalities. Interestingly, while some apps have expanded significantly, others have focused on refining their efficiency, balancing growth with optimization. As apps continue to evolve, this shift will undoubtedly influence how we approach storage, design, and user experience in the years to come.”

Imagine receiving a call from your child, their voice filled with fear and panic, begging for help. Moments later, a menacing voice demands a large ransom. Unfortunately, this nightmare scenario is becoming a reality for many, including an Arizona mother in 2023. This distressing situation is part of a growing AI scam known as the ‘Little Mermaid’ scheme, where criminals clone voices to exploit loved ones.

Mukesh Choudhary, Co-founder and CTO of Finoit, explains how this scam works and shares essential tips to protect yourself.

How the Scam Works

Fraudsters target publicly available videos from social media accounts, extracting users’ voices using AI software. Mukesh explains, “The stolen voice is manipulated to create realistic audio that mimics the original user’s tone and speech patterns. AI technology can change pitch, tone, and cadence, making it almost identical to the victim’s voice.”

These AI-generated voices are then used to impersonate victims, often calling their loved ones with fake emergencies, demanding money, or extracting sensitive information.

“The biggest threat is how convincing these AI-generated voices can be,” Mukesh warns.

How to Protect Yourself and Your Family

To avoid falling victim to the Little Mermaid scam, consider these precautions:

• Limit Publicly Shared Videos: This scam thrives on audio found online. Adjust your social media privacy settings to limit who can access videos that include your voice.
• Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your accounts. Even if scammers capture your voice, they will still need a code to access sensitive information.
• Educate Your Family and Friends: Let your loved ones know about the Little Mermaid scam and the potential dangers of voice cloning. Encourage them to be cautious with unexpected messages, even if the voice seems familiar.
• Verify Suspicious Messages: If you receive a distressing message asking for money or personal details, don’t react right away. Call the person directly to confirm their situation using a known phone number.
• Consider Using Voice Modification Apps: These apps can alter the pitch or cadence of your voice in online recordings, making it harder for scammers to replicate.

By staying alert and taking these steps, you can better protect your voice and your loved ones from AI scams. As Mukesh advises, “A little online security awareness can go a long way in safeguarding yourself and others.”

About Finoit
Finoit is a software development company specializing in building secure and scalable AI solutions for SaaS and software startups. With over 13 years of experience, Finoit has worked with more than 100 startups to create innovative software products.

With advancements in technology, software development security has become a critical area of focus. One of the modern security strategies that is becoming widely adopted is Zero-Trust Security. Given the evolution of cyber threats, old-fashioned security approaches that are built on the walls of a perimeter are no longer of any help. Zero-trust security functions on the assumption that no one – in other words, an insider or outsider – is ever trusted outright.

This article explains what zero-trust security means, why it is essential in the field of software development, and how to implement it successfully.

What is Zero-Trust Security?

Zero-trust security treats all actors (users, devices), devices (hardware like laptops, phones), and networks as threats. Unlike Legacy Models that trust users within a network perimeter, Zero-Trust computes trust (verification) at every interaction (access request).

At its core, the Zero-Trust model emphasizes:

• Verification of every request: All requests for access made by users, whether internal or external, go through proper authentication and authorization processes.
• Least privilege access: Users are provided only the necessary rights to perform their activities.
• Micro-segmentation: The access to the network is broken into smaller independent sections to reduce the span of possible attacks.
• Continuous monitoring: Continuous monitoring and validation of users, devices, and network traffic to detect suspicious behavior.

Why is Zero-Trust Security Important in Software Development?

The Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) has been made richer with the introduction of practices such as DevOps and Agile, which emphasize speed in delivery and numerous iterations. Unfortunately, because security is often neglected, these processes could create risks instead.

Here’s why Zero-Trust Security is essential in software development:

1. Increased Attack Surface: The rise of cloud computing, mobile apps, and the Internet of Things increases the cyber threat attack surface. The zero-trust approach reduces risks through the application of stringent access controls and the reduction of excess access.
2. Insider Threats: There are organizations that deal with the risk of attack from external criminals, as well as internal ones. Zero Trust focuses on the fact that all users and devices, even those that belong to the organization, must first authenticate themselves prior to gaining access to sensitive assets.
3. Software Supply Chain Security: Attacks in recent times, exemplified by the attack on SolarWinds, have revealed some weaknesses in the software supply chains. Zero Trust Security Policies safeguard such threats through robust management policies restricting access to resources at all levels of the development cycle, including code and deployment.
4. Compliance and Regulation: The recent development of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Health Information Portability Act (HIPAA) has necessitated the protection of data to a higher level. Zero Trust Security measures prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information, allowing organizations to comply with data management policies.

Best Practices for Implementing Zero-Trust Security in Software Development

When it comes to the implementation of the Zero Trust Security Model in software development, it has to be a multi-pronged approach. The following are some best practices for effective incorporation of this security model:

1. Adopt a “Shift-Left” Security Approach

The term ‘shifting security left’ means that the steps for performing security checks and control should take place as early as possible, preferably in the design and development stage. Traditionally, security was often the last thing to be improved towards the conclusion of the SDLC process. Such an approach is no longer tenable in the era of Zero Trust because security, by default, can no longer be the last thing people think about.

To implement this:

• Automate Security Testing: The security testing process is a must in CI/CD development environments. Static code analysis (SAST), dynamic application security testing (DAST), or dependency checking are examples of tools that can be used to find bugs at the earliest stages of development.
• Security Training for Developers: Teach developers to secure coding principles so they can write secure code from the start.
• Threat Modeling: Teams should develop such models in order to prepare themselves for ways the software can be attacked and how it can be secure while being built.

2. Implement Least Privilege Access

The principle of least privilege means restricting users, devices, and applications to the bare minimum permissions required to carry out their functions. This aids in decreasing the damage caused by possible breaches, especially insider threats, as it limits the access an attacker will have when an account has been compromised.

• Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): Introduce RBAC for the users to ensure that only the resources required for the particular stage of the development process are available to them.
• Contextual Access Control: Accessibility is also extended to the use of some external parameters, such as the location of the user at the time of request.
• Just-In-Time (JIT) Access: Grant privileged access temporarily when appropriate, but ensure that access is removed once the activity is completed.

3. Micro-Segmentation of Networks and Applications

The idea of micro-segmentation is that instead of one central administration for the entire application or network, each network/application can be divided and separated into many parts called segments, and each segment can have its own security policies. Under this strategy, while an attacker may compromise one segment of the network/system, the lateral movement of such an attacker to any other segment is made difficult.

• Secure DevOps Pipelines: Introduce and configure a barrier between different levels of a development pipeline, such as developers’ zones and production environments, to rule out any possibility of access to the sensitive zones.
• API Security: Divide and protect APIs involved in the software. For every API call, provide access to only trustable users and their machines by enforcing authentication and authorization for each API call.

4. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for All Access

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is one of the fundamental building blocks of Zero-Trust Security. It is less likely that someone will advance with the theft of a single credential since additional credentials are required to be verified.

• MFA for Developers: All developers are required to implement MFA when using code repositories, CI/CD systems, and other development tools. This way, even if a developer’s credentials to any sensitive system are compromised, the attacker cannot easily get to the system.
• MFA for Applications: Enforce MFA for every user of the software application without exception, especially when handling sensitive information or performing any of the application’s critical tasks.

5. Continuous Monitoring and Logging

The concept of Zero Trust Security depends on constant vigilance – whereby every action undertaken is observed in order to identify abnormal behavior that can be deemed malicious.

• Real-Time Monitoring: Deploy live surveillance systems such as those that monitor end users, the network, the internal system, and so on. Systems such as SIEM are useful in monitoring and combating security attacks as they occur.
• Audit Logs: Diligently keep proper audit logs of every interaction that takes place in each software development environment. These records must be examined on a frequent basis to ascertain the presence or absence of malicious activities.

6. Secure the Software Supply Chain

Considering the growing number of attacks targeting third-party services and vendor software, protecting the software supply chain comes out as an important element of the Trust Security Policy.

• Dependency Management: Keep an eye out for and examine the various component libraries used in software on a constant basis. Avoid using any additional construction materials that are not safe for use.
• Code Signing: Employ a code signing certificate to confirm the legitimacy of the software packages, meaning no one has interfered with it within the course of its production or delivery.
• Vulnerability Scanning: Periodically analyze all programming codes, materials, and algorithms for existing threats. Execute threat assessment tools to find and fix threats that are discovered all the time.

7. Implement DevSecOps

DevSecOps implies incorporating security measures and practices at every phase of the DevOps workflow. In a Zero-Trust environment, there is no separate security function; rather, security becomes the concern of all the people involved in development, operations, and security.

• Security as Code: Consider security settings, policies, and measures as software. Their distribution and implementation must be performed automatically in each environment.
• Collaboration: Support the risk management activities in the various phases of the software development lifecycle by promoting the integration of the development, operations, and security teams.

Conclusion

Zero-trust security is beyond a mere concept; it is a framework that every organization must embrace in order to shield its software development processes from escalating cyber attacks. An organization may cut down on its attack surface, meet compliance obligations, and promote security and development benefits by implementing a zero-trust strategy.

The incorporation of fundamental principles such as moving testing and quality assurance earlier in the development cycle, implementing policies of least privilege access, micro-segmenting networks and applications, and moving to continuous monitoring makes it possible for an organization to successfully put in place the necessary strategies to protect its software systems from internal as well as external threats.

With the changing times, it is apparent that the adoption of ZT Security is going to be of immense importance in the protection and preservation of systems and even software applications where constant trust issues need to be addressed.

A recent report by tech specialists at setapp.com has revealed the most popular apps of 2024, with Instagram securing the top spot.

With an impressive popularity score of 90, Instagram saw 696 million downloads this year, along with an average user rating of 4.5. This success is largely attributed to Instagram’s sleek design and innovative features like Stories, Reels, and its strong e-commerce functionality, keeping it at the forefront of the social media landscape.

The study examined the popularity of apps across a range of categories, including social media, messaging, gaming, and shopping.

Analysts pulled data from the Google Play Store, Apple App Store, and third-party sources like Business of Apps and Appfigures. Each app was scored out of 100, considering downloads, user ratings, and overall satisfaction.

Highlights from the Top 10 Apps

Following closely behind Instagram is TikTok, with a popularity score of 85. TikTok’s 654 million downloads and a 4.6 rating underscore its increasing appeal, particularly among younger users drawn to its trend-based, short-form video content.

Facebook placed third, still holding a strong user base with 553 million downloads. However, its slightly lower 4.0 rating points to growing concerns over privacy and potential user fatigue.

In the messaging category, WhatsApp leads with 475 million downloads and a popularity score of 74, driven by its encryption and versatile features for both personal and business use. Telegram, another messaging app known for its privacy features, earned a score of 60, appealing to those with a strong focus on secure communication.

Temu also made waves in the shopping category, scoring 51 with 274 million downloads and a notable 4.65 average rating.

Video editing app CapCut rounded out the top five, racking up 389 million downloads and a 4.55 rating, thanks to its close ties with TikTok.

The Top 10 Most Popular Apps of 2024

1. Instagram – 696 million downloads | Rating: 4.5 | Score: 90
2. TikTok – 654 million downloads | Rating: 4.6 | Score: 85
3. Facebook – 553 million downloads | Rating: 4.0 | Score: 83
4. WhatsApp – 475 million downloads | Rating: 4.55 | Score: 74
5. CapCut – 389 million downloads | Rating: 4.55 | Score: 64
6. Telegram – 355 million downloads | Rating: 4.35 | Score: 60
7. Snapchat – 343 million downloads | Rating: 4.4 | Score: 59
8. Subway Surfers – 304 million downloads | Rating: 4.45 | Score: 54
9. Zoom – 300 million downloads | Rating: 4.5 | Score: 54
10. Temu – 274 million downloads | Rating: 4.65 | Score: 51

Expert Opinions on the Top Apps

Experts from setapp.com highlighted how these leading apps are constantly innovating and engaging users. “Instagram’s seamless e-commerce integration has kept it highly relevant and in demand,” they stated.

Similarly, TikTok’s popularity continues to grow among younger audiences, thanks to its cutting-edge algorithms and trend-driven content.

The study also pointed out Facebook’s continued user base, despite its lower ratings due to concerns around privacy and data security. In contrast, messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram continue to thrive, with more users prioritizing secure communication platforms.

As the digital landscape continues to shift, the report highlights the importance of staying innovative and prioritizing user security for apps aiming to maintain a competitive edge.

Instagram and TikTok’s success demonstrates that platforms able to swiftly adapt to new trends and user behaviors are best poised for success. Meanwhile, apps like WhatsApp and Telegram show that privacy features are becoming an increasingly significant factor in user choice within today’s digital world.

A recent study by AI link-building software company, Linkee.ai, has revealed the latest ranking of the most popular tech podcasts. The analysis considered several factors, including the number of episodes, average length, global ranking, Google searches, and Spotify reviews. The final ranking was determined based on the listen score from Listen Notes, with some surprising results.

1. Radiolab

Topping the list is Radiolab, with a listening score of 85, making it the most popular tech podcast in 2024. Known for its investigative journalism into science, technology, and legal history, Radiolab generates over 82K searches monthly and has a loyal fan base with 7.4K reviews on Spotify. The podcast has aired over 200 episodes, making it a critically acclaimed favorite for tech enthusiasts.

2. 99% Invisible

Taking the second spot is 99% Invisible with a listening score of 83. With over 640 episodes, this podcast dives into design and architecture, from tech innovations to office space layouts. Despite being close in listening score to Radiolab, 99% Invisible garners fewer searches, attracting 35.9K searches monthly.

3. Darknet Diaries

Darknet Diaries claims third place, scoring a listen score of 74. The podcast focuses on hacking, cybercrime, and other digital underworld topics, making it the most-reviewed tech podcast on Spotify, with over 23K reviews. It also boasts a longer average runtime of 56 minutes, drawing listeners into its deep dives into cybercrime.

4. Pivot

Pivot, hosted by Kara Swisher and Scott Galloway, ranks fourth with a listen score of 70. This podcast explores the intersections of tech, business, and politics, with over 500 episodes available. Despite its long run, it remains highly popular with 36.7K monthly searches.

5. All-In

In fifth place is the All-In podcast, hosted by Chamath Palihapitiya, Jason Calacanis, David Sacks, and David Friedberg. Scoring a listen score of 69, it covers a wide range of topics including economics, tech, and even poker. With over 17K reviews on Spotify and a significant audience reach, All-In continues to gain popularity.

6. Vergecast

Vergecast, produced by The Verge, takes the sixth spot with a listening score of 67. Known for its discussions on the latest in tech, this podcast has released the most episodes on this list, with 742 currently available. Each episode runs for just over an hour, making it a staple for tech news followers.

7. Decoder with Nilay Patel

In seventh place is Decoder with Nilay Patel, tying with Vergecast with a listening score of 67. Focused on business, technology, and innovation, the podcast has over 700 episodes and remains a go-to for tech enthusiasts seeking deeper insights into the world of tech leadership and trends.

8. The Talk Show With John Gruber

The Talk Show With John Gruber lands in the eighth spot with a listen score of 63. A notable podcast for Apple fans, it covers tech, design, and Apple products in great detail. Its longer runtime, averaging 132 minutes, sets it apart from the shorter podcasts on this list.

9. Accidental Tech Podcast

Tied for ninth, with the same listen score of 63, is the Accidental Tech Podcast. This show focuses on technology, programming, and Apple products. Similar to The Talk Show, it features long episodes, often nearing two hours, giving listeners a deep dive into tech discussions.

10. Back to Work

Closing out the top 10 is Back to Work, also with a listening score of 63. This podcast takes a different approach, focusing on productivity, work tools, and communication. With 637 episodes, it offers insights into how tech influences the modern work environment.

Why Tech Podcasts Matter

According to a spokesperson from Linkee.ai, “Podcasts focused on tech are not only a source of knowledge and entertainment but also a tool that helps to keep track of innovations, new tech startups, and rising trends.” Many of the podcasts in this ranking delve into entire industries, giving listeners a broader view of tech’s role in reshaping the world.

The ranking provides tech enthusiasts with a diverse list of shows to explore, ranging from investigative journalism to detailed discussions on cybercrime, business, and productivity. Whether you’re new to tech or looking to expand your podcast library, this top 10 list highlights the best in the industry.

Essential tips to protect property and ensure guest safety in the short-term rental market

Key Points:

• Security experts outline five key tips for Airbnb hosts to mitigate risks in their properties and ensure a safe environment
• Concerns over security for short-term rental hosts and guests can significantly impact reputations and financial outcomes
• Implementing security measures protects properties and enhances guest experience and trust

With over 448 million Airbnb nights and experiences booked in 2023, the platform’s explosive growth has brought new challenges for hosts, particularly around security. As more travelers use Airbnb, the risks of security breaches increase, which can not only damage a host’s reputation but also lead to significant financial losses. Taking active steps to protect property and ensure guest safety is more important than ever.

“The sheer scale of Airbnb’s global user base has amplified security risks,” say home security experts at Automatic Technology (ATA). “Hosts need to go beyond offering a clean and comfortable space—they need to implement effective security measures to protect their property and guests from potential threats.”

Top 5 Security Essentials for Airbnb Hosts

1. Install smart locks and keyless entry systems 

Smart locks enable hosts to generate unique access codes for each guest, eliminating the need for physical key exchanges and reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

“Smart locks are a game-changer,” says ATA. “They not only enhance security but provide convenience for both hosts and guests. Changing access codes between stays ensures no one can re-enter without permission.”

2. Set Up Outdoor Security Cameras

With Airbnb’s ban on indoor security cameras earlier this year, hosts must focus on securing outdoor areas. Cameras placed at entrances, driveways, and other external spaces act as deterrents while respecting privacy rules.

“Outdoor security systems ensure safety while maintaining guest privacy, which is a concern for all short-term rental hosts,” advises ATA.

3. Invest in a secure Wi-Fi network with guest-specific access 

Secure Wi-Fi protects both the host’s and guests’ data. Setting up a separate network for guests, distinct from the one controlling smart home devices, ensures privacy.

“Many hosts overlook the importance of network security,” warns ATA. “A compromised network can lead to data breaches, potentially affecting not just current guests but future bookings as well.”

4. Implement smart home security systems

Integrating devices like smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, and motion sensors into a centralized system alerts both hosts and guests to potential dangers in real time.

“Smart home security systems provide an extra layer of protection,” says ATA. “They can detect issues early, preventing potential disasters and showing guests that their safety is a top priority.”

5. Establish clear safety protocols and emergency plans 

Providing detailed guides for guests, including emergency exit plans, important local contact numbers, and instructions for using security features, enhances guest safety and comfort.

“Clear communication about safety measures can significantly boost guest confidence,” notes ATA. “It demonstrates professionalism and care, which often leads to better reviews and increased bookings.”

A spokesperson for Automatic Technology comments:

“Security has become an absolute necessity for Airbnb hosts. We’ve consistently observed that hosts who implement strong security measures, such as smart locks and cameras, significantly reduce risks while also increasing guest trust. When guests feel safe, it both enhances their stay and often results in better reviews and more frequent bookings, giving hosts a clear competitive edge in the market.”

Methodology

Stat on airbnb user base was collected by Statista