Who's Affected?
The issue appears to be impacting a subset of Windows users running various versions of Windows 10, 11, and Windows Server editions. Microsoft's Response: Microsoft has acknowledged the problem and is currently investigating. They have advised users to enter their BitLocker recovery key to regain access to their devices. How to Recover:
While there's no guaranteed way to prevent this issue, maybe turn off updates for a couple of weeks in Update -> Settings -> Advanced. Have you encountered this issue? Share your experience miteradio.com.au
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Instead of blocking cookies entirely, Google now proposes giving users more control over their data. This means users will have the option to choose whether or not to be tracked across the web.
This decision marks a significant shift in Google's approach to online privacy and advertising. While it may appease publishers who rely heavily on cookie-based advertising, it also raises questions about the effectiveness of user choice in a complex digital ecosystem. It’s all about the money… la di da da. The new proposal is still subject to regulatory approval, and it remains to be seen how it will impact the advertising industry and user privacy. I’ll tell you the impact… more buttons to accept, reject and customise cookie retention as well as adding more confusion to the already confusing cookie business. Sheesh! Ep207
The Affected Devices:
According to Sony, the decision is due to "technical limitations" on these older devices. However, many users are frustrated, especially since their TVs are still in perfectly good working order. Some even point out that their Sony remotes have a dedicated Netflix button, highlighting the “utter cheek” of the move. Is There a Workaround? There is a silver lining for affected users. You can still access Netflix through these devices by using a separate streaming device like Google Chromecast or Amazon Fire TV Stick. User Frustration Social media is abuzz with complaints from disgruntled Netflix subscribers. Many point out the inconvenience and question the need to abandon functional devices. The Takeaway: If you own a Sony BRAVIA TV from 2014 or an older Apple TV device, it's time to consider alternative ways to stream Netflix. While the move is frustrating for some, it's a reminder that technology constantly evolves, and older devices eventually reach their end-of-life support. Truth is, you’ll have a better experience with a streaming stick 🙂
What Went Wrong? According to CrowdStrike, the culprit was a "logic error" triggered during a regular update for their Falcon sensor, a security program installed on millions of Microsoft Windows systems. These updates are supposed to happen several times a day and are crucial for maintaining protection against evolving cyber threats. Logic Error, Big Problems However, this particular update contained a programming flaw that backfired spectacularly. The error caused a "blue screen of death" (BSOD) on impacted systems, essentially crashing them and leaving them unusable. This triggered a domino effect, crippling everything from air travel and healthcare to banking and beyond. Experts are calling it the largest IT outage ever recorded. CrowdStrike Pledges Investigation CrowdStrike, understandably apologetic, has vowed to conduct a thorough investigation to understand how such a basic error slipped through the cracks. Logic errors, while not uncommon, typically don't cause such catastrophic consequences. The Path to Recovery While a fix has been deployed, CrowdStrike warns that a full recovery could take some time. Businesses and organisations are left scrambling to restore functionality and assess the damage. Key Takeaways:
Ep 204 AI Adoption Lagging in Japan
This is interesting… A new survey reveals a surprising split in Japanese corporate culture with technology adoption showing a cautious approach. AI: Friend or Foe? The survey, conducted by Reuters and Nikkei Research, found that only ¼ of Japanese companies have embraced Artificial Intelligence (AI) in their businesses with a significant portion of around 41%, having no plans to use AI at all. This hesitance comes despite potential benefits like addressing worker shortages (cited by 60% of AI adopters) and streamlining operations (labour cost reduction was a goal for 53%). Concerns about employee displacement due to automation, a lack of technical expertise, and the cost of implementation are cited as hurdles to AI adoption. Cybersecurity Concerns The survey also highlights cybersecurity worries in Japanese corporations. 15% of respondents reported experiencing cyberattacks in the past year, raising concerns about data security and business continuity. Interestingly, nearly half (47%) of companies outsource their cybersecurity needs, while only 38% have in-house specialists… presumably the remainder do nothing. Ep 203
The Dangers of Spyware
Spyware is a nasty piece of software that can give attackers complete access to your iPhone. Imagine them reading your encrypted messages, listening to your calls, or even watching you through your camera – all without your knowledge. These attacks are often "zero-click," meaning they don't require any action from you to be installed. Protecting Yourself While the risk for everyday users remains "fairly low," according to experts, there are steps you can take to stay safe:
Who's Most at Risk? Experts believe these attacks are highly targeted, focusing on journalists, dissidents, or businesses in specific sectors. So, unless you fall into this category, you can probably breathe a sigh of relief. However, staying vigilant is always a good idea. What to Do if You Suspect Spyware? If you suspect your iPhone is infected with spyware, experts recommend consulting a security professional or perhaps visiting the genius bar at your local Apple Store. In extreme cases, wiping your iPhone clean may be necessary. Stay Informed, Stay Safe 1. Dive into Prime: New to Prime? Enjoy a 30-DAY FREE TRIAL at https://www.amazon.com.au/prime. After the trial, choose the plan that suits you: A$9.99 monthly or A$79 for a year of savings and entertainment.
2. App it Up: Download the Amazon app for mobile shopping bliss. Browse millions of items, track orders in real-time, and even get alerts when your wishlist items go on sale! 3. Wish Upon a List: Create an Amazon Wishlist to organise your shopping needs. Turn on deal notifications to get alerts when wishlist items drop in price, ensuring you never miss a bargain. 4. Alexa to the Rescue: Let Alexa be your shopping sidekick! Simply say "Alexa, start a Prime Day list" to create a dedicated list for the big sale. 5. Voice-Activated Shopping: Hear about hot Prime Day deals with "Alexa, what are my deals?". Need something specific? Ask Alexa to add it to your cart! Plus, track your deliveries with "Alexa, where's my stuff?" for ultimate peace of mind. Prime your shopping in Australia with these tips and get ready to enjoy the best of Amazon! **Use google to search “Prime Deals” and see what people are talking about How?
Verify Caller ID and Message Source: Don't trust caller ID alone. Always check the legitimacy of callers and messages before responding. If unsure, hang up or delete the message.
The message is clear: solar power is no longer a niche technology. It's poised to become the dominant energy source, leaving traditional options like nuclear struggling to keep up. I’m thinking it’s time to change your election strategy there - Mr Dutton. IMHO - It’s a bit like NBN vs Fixed Wireless
The Risk: Remote Access and Data Theft
This vulnerability opens the door for malicious software to steal your chat history and media in real-time, bypassing the supposed security of end-to-end encryption. Signal's "Backdoor" Risk Signal faces an additional threat. The encryption key for your chat history is stored unencrypted, further jeopardising your data. Additionally, a vulnerability allows attackers to create "cloned" sessions, granting unauthorised access to your ongoing conversations. Who Should Be Worried? Anyone concerned about the privacy of their communications, especially those in high-risk professions or locations, should be particularly cautious. What to Do? Security experts advise unlinking the desktop apps from your phone immediately. This essentially removes their access to your data and renders them unusable. You can do this through the settings menu in your phone's WhatsApp or Signal app. The Takeaway: While using the mobile apps is still considered secure, this incident highlights the importance of vigilance. Until the desktop apps are patched, it's best to avoid them altogether. The Wait for a Fix: WhatsApp and Signal have not spoken out about the issue or any potential updates… so maybe until then, prioritise the security of your communications by unlinking the desktop apps. Nyobolt's breakthrough battery charges from 10% to 80% in just four and a half minutes, a significant improvement over current fast-charging options like Tesla's Supercharger. This translates to a roughly 75% reduction in charging time, making EVs much more convenient and potentially eliminating "range anxiety" – the fear of running out of battery power before reaching a charging station. The company's CEO is optimistic about the technology's potential for rapid adoption, stating, "Our research has unlocked a novel battery technology that is ready and scalable right now." This suggests Nyobolt's batteries could be integrated into existing EV infrastructure, potentially leveraging the widespread network of Tesla Superchargers in North America. While Tesla currently dominates the fast-charging market, Nyobolt assures compatibility with existing technology - something Tesla QUITE DELIBERATELY does NOT do. This means car manufacturers wouldn't need to completely overhaul their designs to benefit from the faster charging times. The implications of this development are far-reaching. Faster charging could significantly boost EV sales by making them more practical and convenient for everyday use. It could also open doors to the electrification of new products and services previously deemed infeasible due to charging limitations. Nyobolt's innovation has the potential to flip range anxiety on its head and will likely pave the way for a future where electric cars are not only environmentally friendly but also seamlessly integrated into our daily lives.
Previously, Netflix had announced in 2023 that new subscribers would no longer be offered the ad-free Basic plan. However, existing Basic plan subscribers were unaffected - until now. This move eliminates the most affordable ad-free option for viewers.
The elimination of the Basic plan pushes users towards more expensive tiers, some of which ALSO include ads. The Standard With Ads plan, launched in 2022, allows streaming on two devices but lacks the ability to download content offline or add additional profiles. This plan also comes with some content restrictions due to licensing. Interestingly, this decision by Netflix seems to follow a similar move by Amazon Prime Video which converted all Prime Video accounts to an ad-supported model. - bang - just like that! The financial impact of this change on Netflix is yet to be seen. However, the company did see a significant increase in subscriptions after cracking down on password sharing in 2023. It seems we can’t do without our move and tv series streaming, so they will likely get away with it. I guess the others will follow suit. So, where’s the tip and trick you might ask? I have 2:
What's the Problem?
Tesla disables a key function in its Powerwall batteries sold in Australia. This function, mandated in some US states, allows third-party devices and services to interact with the battery locally. This limitation means:
Industry experts and organisations are urging the government to:
The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) acknowledges the importance of interoperability for a smooth grid transition. The government is reviewing standards and access issues, but concrete action is awaited. The Takeaway: Tesla's Powerwall batteries could offer Australians more benefits and contribute more to the grid with greater interoperability. Regulations and industry collaboration are crucial to unlock this potential and empower consumers in the energy market.
Enter the White Hat Hacker:
Desperate to regain access, the owner sought help from Joe Grand, a security researcher known online as "Kingpin." Grand, who previously helped another crypto owner recover lost funds, decided to take on this monumental challenge. The Password Plot Twist: The key to cracking the code lay not in brute force, but in exploiting a vulnerability in RoboForm itself. Unlike a truly random password generator, RoboForm's older versions had a flaw: passwords could be predictable if you knew the time they were created. Hacking Time Itself: Using a tool developed by the NSA (yes, you heard that right!), Grand essentially "hacked back in time" to 2013. By manipulating the system date, he was able to trick RoboForm into recreating the same password used back then. Pretty clever really 🙂 Lucky Break, Big Reward: With the help of a colleague, Grand generated millions of potential passwords based on this time manipulation. After some trial and error (and a dash of luck, as Grand himself admits), they finally cracked the code! Lessons Learned: This incredible story highlights the importance of strong password management. While password generators are helpful, ensure they use truly random outputs. Additionally, consider using a password manager with robust security features. The Moral of the Story? Don't forget your passwords! But if you do, there's always a chance a friendly neighbourhood hacker (or two) might be able to help – for a price, of course. So, where does this leave music lovers who want to avoid potentially unfair practices and high costs? While free ad-supported streaming services exist (like Spotify's free tier), they often come with limited features like song skipping restrictions and frequent commercials. Depending on your location, why not try some internet radio stations that offer a good music experience without the controversy:
Benefits of Passkeys:
Minister Bill Shorten highlights the increasing prevalence of sophisticated phishing scams as a key reason for adopting passkeys. This move by MyGov reflects a growing trend towards more secure online authentication methods. What to Expect: MyGov is currently rolling out passkeys as a sign-in option. You might be prompted to create a passkey during your next login. The process is straightforward and designed for user-friendliness. A Secure Future for MyGov The adoption of passkeys signifies MyGov's commitment to providing Australians with a secure platform for accessing government services. This transition marks a significant step towards a more robust and trustworthy digital identity landscape in Australia. To get started visit: https://my.gov.au/passkeys
Interestingly, the report also found that Australia has the highest rate of EV owners considering a return to petrol or diesel vehicles, surpassing the 29% global average. Additionally, 63% of Australian respondents indicated that they "don't like to occupy themselves with new technology," which is 8% higher than the global average response. While the Australian EV market has shown signs of growth, with a 26.8% increase in year-to-date sales compared to last year, this study suggests that there's still a significant portion of EV owners who are dissatisfied with their experience. As Australia aims to accelerate the transition towards a more sustainable transportation future, addressing these concerns will be crucial to ensure the continued adoption of electric vehicles and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Kuo's report highlights the use of batteries with higher energy density in the iPhone 16. Simply put, this means the battery will be able to store more energy, allowing you to use your phone for extended periods before needing to recharge.
However, there's a potential trade-off to consider. Kuo also warns that this increased energy density might generate more heat within the phone. Apple will need to address this thermal challenge to ensure optimal performance and user comfort. While specific details remain under wraps, rumours suggest Apple might be exploring the use of stainless steel casings for the iPhone 16. This material choice could potentially help dissipate the additional heat generated by the higher-density battery. Additionally, stainless steel casings could align with the recent European Union (EU) regulations mandating easier repairability for electronic devices. Stay tuned for further developments as we inch closer to the official iPhone 16 launch!
While there are efforts underway to make Australia a more attractive market for EVs, including the introduction of new brands and infrastructure improvements, it's clear that there are still some hurdles to overcome in terms of affordability and consumer confidence.
It seems that while electric vehicles (EVs) have been experiencing some challenges, hybrid vehicles are actually faring better in the Australian market. In fact, hybrid sales have exceeded EV sales in recent quarters, and the demand for both hybrid and electric vehicles continues to grow. Interestingly, some experts believe that the increasing variety of EV models and improvements in charging infrastructure could boost EV sales in the future. However, for the time being, it appears that Australians are gravitating towards hybrids, which may be seen as a more practical and accessible option for those looking to transition to more eco-friendly vehicles. What are the stumbling blocks?
What are Community Batteries?
Imagine a giant, shared battery for your neighbourhood. That's the concept behind community batteries. These stationary batteries connect to the grid, allowing residents with rooftop solar to store excess solar energy during the day and use it when needed, even after sunset. This means:
The program boasts a significant investment:
The advantages extend beyond individual households. Community batteries can benefit:
This initiative marks a significant step towards a cleaner and more secure energy future for Australia. Federal Energy and Climate Minister Chris Bowen highlighted the potential, stating, "Community batteries are the next stage in ensuring all communities get the benefit of the energy transformation." Looking Ahead: A Second Round on the Horizon The strong response to the program is promising. ARENA has already received over 140 expressions of interest and plans to launch a second round of funding later in 2024. This community battery rollout positions Australia as a leader in adopting innovative solutions for a sustainable energy future. Banking Trojan Malware "Medusa" Makes a Nasty Comeback!
How to Stay Safe for EOFY BankingJust in time for End of Financial Year (EOFY) when online financial activity peaks, a dangerous foe has slithered back onto the scene. The Medusa banking trojan, infamous for stealing banking credentials, has re-emerged after a year of dormancy. Cybersecurity researchers warn that this new variant is stealthier and targets a wider range of users globally. Medusa 2.0: Lighter, Meaner, More Widespread The latest version of Medusa is designed to be more difficult to detect. It requires fewer permissions from users compared to its earlier iteration. However, a red flag to watch out for is still present: a request for Accessibility Services permissions. Additionally, the new variant boasts a wider range of malicious capabilities, including:
Researchers identified five separate botnets using this new Medusa variant, each targeting specific regions. These botnets, named UNKN, AFETZEDE, ANAKONDA, PEMBE, and TONY, have been found to target users in Canada, France, Italy, Spain, Turkey, the UK, and the US. While the malware hasn't infiltrated the Google Play Store yet, it can still spread through malicious websites, social media scams, and phishing attacks. What You Can Do to Stay Safe Here are some crucial steps to protect yourself from the Medusa banking trojan:
Government Cracks Down on SMS Scams with New Sender ID Register
Australians can expect greater protection from text message scams thanks to a new government initiative. New legislation proposes an SMS sender ID register, making it harder for scammers to impersonate legitimate businesses. Under the scheme, companies sending SMS with their business name as the sender ID can register their details with a central database. This will allow telecommunication providers (telcos) to identify and block messages from imposters trying to mimic organisations like banks or the Australian Taxation Office. Suspicious numbers might be blocked altogether, or recipients may receive warnings about potential scams. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) will manage the register, building upon a successful trial that began in December 2023. Text messages are a favourite tool for scammers, with Scamwatch reporting a staggering $27 million lost in 2023 alone. Communications Minister Michelle Rowland emphasises the register's role in disrupting the business model of SMS scammers. "This initiative aims to significantly reduce the number of impersonation scams targeting consumers," she stated in parliament. "While there's been progress, Australians are still losing too much money. A single solution won't eliminate scams entirely." The legislation establishing the register is currently before parliament, with one key detail still under discussion: whether participation will be voluntary or mandatory for businesses. The rise of text-based scams is alarming, with a 37% increase reported in 2023 compared to the previous year. Financial Services Minister Stephen Jones highlights the register's potential to impede scammers. "These criminals are ruthless, and our government is committed to hindering their operations and protecting Australians," he declared. "Our anti-scam efforts have led to a decrease in scam losses for the first time since 2016, and the SMS register represents another crucial step towards safeguarding people's finances." Major Record Labels Sue AI Music Makers for Copyright Infringement
The music industry is clashing with artificial intelligence (AI) music generators in a battle over copyright. Big names like Universal Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment, and Warner Records are suing Suno and Udio, two leading AI music companies, alleging they create music by illegally copying the works of real artists. The Accusation: Stealing Songs on a Massive Scale The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), representing major record labels, accuses Suno and Udio of using copyrighted material "en masse" to train their AI models. This training data allows the AI to generate new songs that mimic the styles of established artists. The labels claim this is a blatant violation of copyright and are seeking damages up to $150,000 per song. AI Companies Defend Themselves Suno and Udio deny the accusations. Suno says their technology creates entirely new music and doesn't copy existing works. Udio makes similar claims, stating their training data is confidential. Both companies emphasise their focus on originality and claim the lawsuits are an attempt to stifle innovation. Examples of AI Mimicry The lawsuits cite specific examples of AI-generated music that sound suspiciously familiar. One Suno song, titled "Deep down in Louisiana close to New Orle," is said to mimic the lyrics and style of Chuck Berry's "Johnny B. Goode." Another, "Prancing Queen," supposedly borrows heavily from ABBA's "Dancing Queen." Play sample track for Great Balls of Fire \\mite-server\incoming A Growing Conflict This lawsuit is just the latest chapter in a larger fight between the music industry and AI music companies. Previously, labels sued Anthropic for allowing users to prompt its AI system with copyrighted lyrics. Additionally, artists and labels have publicly criticised platforms like TikTok and YouTube for allowing the spread of AI-generated music. The Future of AI Music The legal battle raises questions about the future of AI music. While some see it as a threat to artists' livelihoods, others view it as a powerful tool for creating new and innovative sounds. The outcome of these lawsuits could determine how AI music develops and how copyright is protected in the digital age. Backpackers Rejoice! Starlink Mini Beams Internet to Remote LocationsDo you like to spend time off the beaten track? Well SpaceX's Starlink has launched a new, portable internet solution specifically designed for backpackers and off-the-grid explorers. Say goodbye to spotty connections and hello to high-speed internet, virtually anywhere.
Starlink Mini: Power in a Package This compact dish, roughly the size of a thick laptop, integrates a Wi-Fi router for seamless connectivity. Despite its size, Starlink Mini delivers impressive speeds exceeding 100Mbps, powered by a standard USB-C PD power bank. Imagine checking emails or uploading photos from the heart of the wilderness! Lightweight & Weatherproof: Weighing just over 1kg, Starlink Mini is your lightweight internet companion. It boasts an IP67 rating, meaning it's dustproof and can withstand rain or even short dips in water. So, bad weather won't dampen your online experience. Pricing and Availability: Starlink Mini is currently an add-on service to existing residential plans. The initial kit now costs $499, with an additional $30 monthly fee for "Mini Roam" service. This grants users 50GB of data, with the option to purchase more. A Glimpse into the Future: While currently limited in the US, Starlink Mini is coming to Oz and offers a glimpse into the future of internet access. It holds immense potential for anyone requiring reliable internet on the go, from adventure seekers to those in remote locations. SpaceX plans to expand availability to more regions in the coming months. So, ditch the unreliable connections and embrace the freedom of Starlink Mini. The world is your internet-connected oyster! EU Accuses Apple of Stifling App Store CompetitionThe European Union (EU) and Apple are clashing over the bloc's new Digital Markets Act (DMA). The EU accuses Apple of hindering competition on its App Store, potentially leading to billions in fines for the tech giant.
The Charges: The EU claims Apple's App Store rules prevent app developers from directing users to alternative app stores or content sources. This "walled garden" approach restricts consumer choice and may inflate prices. Apple's Response: Apple maintains it has made changes to comply with the DMA and continues to engage with the EU commission. They argue the DMA could compromise user privacy and security. The Stakes:
This isn't the first time the EU has challenged Apple's App Store practices. In 2023, the EU fined Apple €1.8 billion for stifling competition with music streaming services like Spotify. The DMA's Reach: The DMA aims to level the playing field for smaller tech companies by forcing tech giants like Apple, Google, and Meta to open up their platforms. The Future:
The EU believes the DMA is a necessary tool to promote competition and user choice in the digital market. Commissioner Margrethe Vestager argues compliance shouldn't be a burden, but a badge of honor. A Broader Fight: Several other tech companies, including Google, Amazon, and Meta, also need to comply with the DMA, potentially leading to further investigations and changes. This battle between the EU and Apple has major implications for the future of app stores and digital competition in Europe. |
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