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Showing posts from February, 2023

Platforms Are Fighting Online Abuse—but Not the Right Kind

For some people, particularly marginalized groups, harassment is a chronic problem. But the best tools to help them only work for “acute” situations. from Ideas Latest https://ift.tt/pPSDCTL

Apple Users Need to Update iOS Now to Patch Serious Flaws

Plus: Microsoft fixes several zero-day bugs, Google patches Chrome and Android, Mozilla rids Firefox of a full-screen vulnerability, and more. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/iSvzXEw

Will non-linear work days be the new hybrid working?

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For a long time, the concept of work-life balance felt like an unattainable myth; all it took was a global pandemic and the ensuing government-enforced lockdowns to show employers that their staff could work remotely and still get the job done. In fact, studies show that remote employees work more hours overall than those based in an office for part or all of the week—remote workers put in an extra 8.7 hours per week on average compared to their office-based colleagues who average 6.5 extra hours. Post-pandemic a vast number of organisations have come around to the idea that flexible… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/q37RkWX

New sensor promises to bring ‘true colour’ to smartphone photos

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In the fiercely contested smartphone market, photography can be a key battleground. Alongside the insatiable desires for better batteries, durability, storage, and processing, camera quality consistently ranks as a key factor when choosing a phone. At CES 2023, Spectricity, a startup based in Belgium, unveiled a new entrant to the competition: the S1 chip.  Spectricity claims the S1 is the first truly miniaturised and mass-manufacturable spectral image sensor for mobile devices — and the company is targetting sector dominance. Within two years, Spectricity boldly predicts the sensor will be inside every smartphone. The bullishness derives from a singular focus: measuring… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/OXK4HA0

What the Mesopotamians can teach us about Chat GPT and the impact of new tech

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Adapting to technological advances is a defining part of 21st-century life. But it’s not unique to us: it’s been part of the human story since our earliest written records – even featuring in the plotlines of ancient myths and legends. While ChatGPT threatens to change writing (and writing-related work) as we know it, the Mesopotamians, who lived 4,000 years ago (in a geographical area centred in modern-day Iraq), went through this kind of seismic change before us. Their civilisation is credited with the invention of writing. The Mesopotamians are credited with the invention of writing. The city of Babylon, whose… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/5srOtSo

Plan to build UK’s first battery gigafactory falls out of British hands

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Britishvolt, a prominent UK battery startup, had generated enthusiasm over its plans to build the country’s first battery gigafactory. But after filing for administration in January, it has now been bought by Australian firm Recharge Industries. Launched in 2019, Britishvolt had planned a £3.8 billion battery plant near the Port of Blyth in Northumberland, promising 300,000 batteries per year, the creation of 3,000 direct jobs, as well as a significant boost to the region’s economy and the UK’s production of EV batteries. Despite gaining a funding pledge by the government and partnering with major companies like Aston Martin and Glencore, in… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/0siqQkx

Should I Learn Coding as a Second Language?

WIRED's spiritual advice columnist on AI and what may happen if humans can't read code anymore. from Ideas Latest https://ift.tt/uchnTtj

Security News This Week: Sensitive US Military Emails Exposed

Plus: Iran’s secret torture black sites, hacking a bank account with AI-generated voice, and Lance Bass’ unhinged encounter in Russia. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/ioHmLqR

America’s Most Boring Association Is Fighting the Planet

The dominance of the water-guzzling lawn is starting to wane—if only homeowner communities could get on board. from Ideas Latest https://ift.tt/l9KjDwb

Ukraine’s year of war exposes changing roles for cyber weapons

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On the one-year anniversary of Russia’s invasion, Ukraine is commemorating horrific losses — and remarkable defiance. The country’s fierce resistance on the battlefield has been echoed on the digital front — where Kyiv has unique experience. The conflict with Russia has become the world’s first full-scale cyberwar, but Ukraine was a test bed for digital weapons long before the invasion of 24 February, 2022. Since Putin’s troops began flooding across the border, the cyber tactics have shifted dramatically. These developments have made Ukraine a bellwether for digital warfare. And to the surprise of analysts, cyber attacks have had a limited impact… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/BiEO4mk

European Space Agency unveils new plan for growing plants on the Moon

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With the goal of establishing a long-term presence on the Moon, the European Space Agency (ESA) is working on a new project that will help determine the feasibility of growing plants on the lunar surface. Led by Norway’s Solsys Mining, the project will seek to develop a method for converting lunar soil into fertiliser for use in hydroponic farming. The study builds on previous research on lunar soil samples. While lunar soil, also known as regolith, is rich in most nutrients necessary for plant growth, it compacts in the presence of water, making it problematic for seeds to establish healthy… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/aWh2oKg

Human Art Already Has So Much In Common With AI

The central question raised by large language models isn’t whether AI can replace human creativity, but whether people value the artist. from Ideas Latest https://ift.tt/HNV34rB

9 People Hold the Internet’s Fate in Their Hands

The Supreme Court should continue to safeguard online speech—in the Section 230 case and beyond. from Ideas Latest https://ift.tt/N9mfSPL

Are bioinspired drones the next big thing in unmanned flight?

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A raft of research, supported by startup developments, suggests drones inspired by nature are the future of flight. Plans for the future of airborne transport include seeing a small army of drones competing for space in the sky with the 50 billion birds worldwide. But there’s also the potential of a halfway house, where drones that look like birds end up flying alongside the animals they’re inspired from and the traditional quadcopters. A new raft of drones inspired by nature, many of which are university spin-offs, are capturing the attention of investors. Animal Dynamics, which was launched in 2015 as… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/mJHVYzf

You Can't Trust App Developers' Privacy Claims on Google Play

Mozilla researchers found that apps often provide inaccurate data use disclosures, giving people “a false sense of security.” from Security Latest https://ift.tt/BiNVgUx

Batteries Are Ukraine’s Secret Weapon Against Russia

With Russia regularly knocking out Ukraine’s power grid, the country has turned to high-capacity batteries to keep it connected to the world—and itself. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/NrAHQCX

It’s Fine to Never Meet IRL

As high-risk individuals are marginalized from a society eager to ignore pandemic harms, tech companies must do more to expand accessible virtual spaces. from Ideas Latest https://ift.tt/5cnGd0W

The Case for Software Criticism

Software may be the defining cultural artifact of our time. So why isn’t there a culture of critical analysis around it? from Ideas Latest https://ift.tt/8mqBFx7

Can data-driven research show us how to be happy?

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What is happiness? And how can we be happy? These questions are integral to the human experience, but their answers can be elusive. We can apply several perspectives to approach them, through philosophy or psychology, for instance. We can also use our personal view of our feelings and goals as we navigate through life. But can we bring a scientific approach to happiness? Meik Wiking, CEO of the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen, believes we can. The institute combines qualitative and quantitative methods to provide insights on well-being, happiness, and the quality of life. Its mission? To inform decision-makers in… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/zyXwGM4

Why the US Congress Wants to Ban TikTok

Lawmakers are increasingly hellbent on punishing the popular social network while efforts to pass a broader privacy law have dwindled. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/oK0BaqI

Predictive policing project shows even EU lawmakers can be targets

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Predictive policing has exposed a new group of future criminals: MEPs. A new testing systems has spotlighted five EU politicians as “at risk” of committing future crimes. Luckily for them, it’s not a tool that’s used by law enforcement, but one designed to highlight the dangers of such systems. The project is the brainchild of Fair Trials, a criminal justice watchdog. The NGO is campaigning for a ban on predicting policing, which uses data analytics to forecast when and where crimes are likely to happen — and who may commit them. Proponents argue that the approach can be more accurate,… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/snoLFcH

In Ukraine, Identifying the Dead Comes at a Human Rights Cost

The government is using Clearview AI to identify fallen Russian soldiers, but this deployment distracts from face recognition’s dangers. from Ideas Latest https://ift.tt/aKIWFw7

Ukraine Suffered More Wiper Malware in 2022 Than Anywhere, Ever

As Russia has accelerated its cyberattacks on its neighbor, it's barraged the country with an unprecedented volume of different data-destroying programs. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/6nzm23Z

Why US-based unicorn HackerOne keeps their dev team in Groningen

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In 2012, two former students from Hanze University of Applied Sciences in the Northern Dutch city of Groningen, took a major gamble. They made a list of 100 companies they’d like to work for — including Facebook, Twitter, Spotify, and Uber — and hacked them. As you can imagine, this little stunt certainly got their attention. Now, $159.4M in investment later, their cybersecurity company, HackerOne, reached unicorn status in 2022 and counts big players like Nintendo, AT&T, Hyatt, GM, and even the Pentagon amongst its clients. HackerOne is a bug bounty hunting platform that enables companies to enlist the help… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/UYW5aJv

Values of European unicorns plunge amid sharp fall in public markets

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A rough year in public markets has taken a heavy toll on startups. According to new research, every unicorn in Europe that went public in 2021 has since shrunk in valuation. The losses follow record-highs for VC exit valuations in 2021. PitchBook, a financial data firm, attributed the downturn to a shrinking public market. The company found that 13 unicorns went public during 2021’s bull market and IPO frenzy. Yet none have gone on to have positive share price returns. Their numbers paint a gloomy picture. By the end of 2022, more than half of them had lost over 75% of their… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/lhYqpJZ

Studies show women are less likely to apply for jobs at male-dominated startups

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Mark Zuckerberg, Larry Page, Sergey Brin, Jeff Bezos: what these names have in common is they are all founders of some of tech’s most powerful companies. The other key thing they have in common is they’re all men. While there are many women founders—Melanie Perkins of Canva and Sandy Lerner of Cisco are just two, along with Mira Murati, the CTO of OpenAI, creator of the much-lauded ChatGPT—there is a significant gender disparity in the technology industry. There are many systemic reasons for this. Globally, women make up over 50% of the population, but own only 1% of the total… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/W1Se9dM

The Myth of the Psychopathic Personality Refuses to Die

Science wants to solve the problem of evil but some of the most mainstream concepts are little more than folklore. from Ideas Latest https://ift.tt/5AOIZ2F

A New Kind of Bug Spells Trouble for iOS and macOS Security

Security researchers found a class of flaws that, if exploited, would allow an attacker to access people’s messages, photos, and call history. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/RhxVebB

How to Protect Yourself from Twitter’s 2FA Crackdown

Twitter is disabling SMS-based two-factor authentication. Switch to these alternatives to keep your account safe. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/qCsmnyO

UK at risk of lagging behind EU and US in clean energy investment race

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Although the UK has set out ambitious clean energy targets, it risks lagging behind the US and the EU in attracting the required investments, two of the country’s energy trade organisations have warned. Ahead of the Chancellor’s Spring Budget next month, Energy UK and Renewable UK have published two separate reports, calling on the government to implement measures and rule changes that will enable the UK to attract vital private investment in renewables. “The renewable energy sector is facing a perfect storm this year. According to Energy UK’s report, investment in low-carbon electricity generation “has deteriorated significantly” in the past… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/UdnuIPh

How to Unlock Your iPhone With a Security Key

Passcodes are out. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/CStBz28

Yes, Lab-Grown Meat Is Vegan

This new technology offers an opportunity to free animals from exploitation. So why are some vegans opposed to it? from Ideas Latest https://ift.tt/YouEhRD

How to build a great software engineering team

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This article was originally published on .cult by Chameera Dulanga. .cult is a Berlin-based community platform for developers. We write about all things career-related, make original documentaries, and share heaps of other untold developer stories from around the world. Software development is teamwork and having a good team structure is vital for its success. But, even a tiny misalignment could adversely affect our teams’ output. That’s why we should be extra careful when putting a team together. In this article, I’ll discuss some important factors you need to consider when building a software engineering team for your company. Why is team… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/xnq4ASo

Twitter's Two-Factor Authentication Change 'Doesn't Make Sense'

The company will soon require users to pay for a Twitter Blue subscription to get sign-in codes via SMS. Security experts are baffled. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/b8LwPRV

Hackers Ran Amok Inside GoDaddy for Nearly 3 Years

Plus: The FBI got (at least a little bit) hacked, an election-disruption firm gets exposed, Russia mulls allowing “patriotic hacking,” and more. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/jsvXWgx

Data Breaches: The Complete WIRED Guide

Everything you need to know about the past, present, and future of data security—from Equifax to Yahoo—and the problem with Social Security numbers. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/rRcAUDj

These are the next 6 industries that are ripe for tech disruption

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When it comes to investing in innovation, certain industries have flourished over others. Those that haven’t are now facing a do or die situation to keep up with the demands of a modern society, the ever-prominent concern around the climate crisis, inflation issues, and an aging population. Looking at the global stats Tracxn collected from 230+ sectors between 2013 and 2023, it’s clear which industries — education, hospitality, agriculture, industrial manufacturing, real estate and construction, and commercial airline — have fallen behind, received less funding and seen less successful startups being founded. Whether it’s been down to high costs, difficulty… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/uxHlP5e

An AO3 Algorithm Would be Horrible, Actually

A “for you” feed might sound convenient. But making AO3 more like TikTok could have disastrous consequences for fan fiction readers and creators alike. from Ideas Latest https://ift.tt/7zFWYDE

7 key takeaways about the Dutch tech startup ecosystem you need to know

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The Dutch tech startup ecosystem has been steadily flourishing over the past five years, establishing itself as one of Europe’s most vibrant hubs. Yet, there are still hurdles the Netherlands needs to overcome in order to reach its full potential and successfully compete on a global scale. That’s according to the annual State of Dutch Tech report by TechLeap, a non-profit organisation which helps quantify and accelerate the ecosystem in the Netherlands. Here are seven key takeaways from the report you need to know about: The Netherlands houses the EU’s most successful ecosystem In 2022, the Amsterdam-Delta region was the… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/ewAcV8p

Crypto Buyers Beware: 1 in 4 New Tokens of Any Value Is a Scam

And according to tracing firm Chainalysis, one very prolific scammer ran at least 264 of those scams in 2022 alone. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/qWUs9ZO

The East Palestine, Ohio Train Derailment Created a Perfect TikTok Storm

The social media platform helped push the story into the mainstream while also fueling misinformation and conspiracy theories. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/5k4LGXF

EU launches €3.75 billion fund of funds to help tech startups scale up

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Five EU member states and the European Investment Bank (EIB) Group have launched a new fund to support the late-stage growth of promising European tech startups and increase the continent’s competitiveness in innovation. The so-called European Tech Champions Initiative (ETCI) aims to address the issue with inadequate late-stage funding, especially for companies seeking more than €50 million in capital. Boosting European investment “Europe’s tech startups often do not have sufficient capital to compete on a global scale and are pushed to relocate overseas. Closing this scale-up gap could create a large number of highly skilled jobs and boost growth,” the… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/jkFUDra

US Border Patrol Is Finally Able to Check E-Passport Data

After 16 years, the agency has implemented the software to cryptographically verify digital passport data—and it’s already caught a dozen alleged fraudsters. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/07uBZkV

Influencer Is a Real Job. It's Time to Act Like It

Policies that recognize the industry’s cultural and economic significance will protect both workers and consumers. from Ideas Latest https://ift.tt/lP6L9pZ

The Future of Weight Loss Looks a Lot Like Its Past

The FDA's new anti-obesity medications, like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro, sound like silver bullets. Bariatric surgery did once too. from Ideas Latest https://ift.tt/jknYqtU

What to Look for When Buying a Security Camera (2023): Tips and Risks

Eufy's recent scandal shows it's not so much about the data breach but about how a company responds. Here are a few ways to shop smart. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/ceDCF8O

In Praise of AI-Generated Pickup Lines

For a decade, Americans have described dating apps as exhausting. AI offers the tools to reinvigorate how we find and talk to partners online. from Ideas Latest https://ift.tt/excOupt

4 Best VPN Services (2023): For Routers, PC, iPhone, Android, and More

It won’t solve all of your privacy problems, but a virtual private network can make you a less tempting target for hackers. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/rOIzocS

Scientific breakthrough could take us closer to impactful quantum computers

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In a world first, scientists from the University of Sussex and Universal Quantum, a spin-off of the university, have demonstrated that quantum bits (qubits) can directly transfer between quantum computer microchips. This breakthrough is expected to overcome a major obstacle in building quantum computers that are large and powerful enough to address the crucial societal challenges they’re envisioned to: from medicine development, to the creation of new materials and climate change solutions. To address these issues, experts estimate that millions of qubits are required — a number currently out of reach, with existing quantum computers operating on the 100-qubit scale.… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/jMFbrqi

The More You Look for Spy Balloons, the More UFOs You’ll Find

No, there’s not a sudden influx of unidentified objects in the skies above the US—but the government is paying closer attention. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/siWSbfO

Dating Apps Have a Filter Bubble Problem

If you’re desperately scrolling, it’s not your fault. The recommendation system for love needs a major reboot. from Ideas Latest https://ift.tt/rbVUMA7

Sun, sea, and startups: València’s tech sector is poised to explode

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València regularly tops rankings of the best cities in the world, due to its stellar combo of 300-plus annual days of sun, the Med on your doorstep, and a lifestyle that values free time, exercise, and good food. But it’s not all paella and chill. The Valèncian region’s startup scene — based mainly in its capital plus the smaller cities of Alicante and Castellon — has been revving up in recent years, and is now making its mark in everything from AI, fintech, and cybersecurity, to cleantech, healthtech, and industrial IoT. With TNW’s first conference in València just around the corner,… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/IMgvLNV

Can ChatGPT write you the ultimate cover letter?

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Cover letters are something many job candidates really struggle with. Lots of people aren’t even convinced they’re necessary. With so many job applications happening these days via websites and apps –– surely that online form you filled out is all that’s needed? A recent survey from Cultivated Culture found that, while 53% of employers prefer candidates who add cover letters with their CVs, only 10% of hiring managers actually take time to read them, which further adds to job applicants’ frustration. And if you’re job hunting and want to send out as many applications as possible, does writing an individualized… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/X0P4owR

EU awards €50K to three pioneers in social innovation

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The EU has announced the three winners of the European Social Innovation Competition (EUSIC), which seeks to find pioneering solutions to societal challenges. The 2022 challenge, named “the future of living,” was designed to attract participants who can advance the affordability, sustainability, and re-invention of European housing districts. “Social innovation is crucial to increase resilience and support the transformation of our economies, while putting people first,” Hubert Gambs, the Commission’s Deputy Director General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship, and SMEs,  said. “With this competition, which celebrates its tenth edition this year, we support social innovations that will bring social, environmental,… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/NkMS20o

Pig Butchering Scams Are Evolving Fast

Investment schemes are ensnaring victims with increasingly compelling narratives and believable tech. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/PfOMR06

Why Groningen is the coolest tech city you’ve never heard of

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It’s no secret that the Netherlands is a European leader when it comes to the tech and startup sectors. The country attracted €1.8bn in investment in 2021 alone, more than double the €790m raised in 2020. While many people think of Amsterdam as the country’s startup capital and a global tech powerhouse — and with success stories like Adyen, MessageBird and Mollie, they’re not wrong — the Netherlands’ lesser-known cities are becoming favorites amongst expats who want to be part of the country’s dynamic tech scene, without the hustle of big city life. Take Groningen. Known as the country’s “capital of the… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/zTvRQUN

How to Make Sure You’re Not Accidentally Sharing Your Location

Keep your movements private. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/jDLBfh2

God Did the World a Favor by Destroying Twitter

Remember what happened with the Tower of Babel? Same type of deal. from Ideas Latest https://ift.tt/MFHrjqJ

Launching a startup with friends? Follow these 4 basic tips

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The new Netflix murder mystery film Glass Onion is a cautionary tale – but not about influencers, tech bros, or ironic architecture, as some have suggested. Glass Onion (along with HBO’s Succession) is actually a warning about the potential perils of going into business with your friends or family. Such businesses are a huge contributor to any economy. Globally, between 70 and 80% of firms are co-owned or co-managed by family or friends. Close relations can be a great source of support and positive influence on a new idea or business. My research, focusing on new business development within universities, shows… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/VlENhru

North Korean Hackers Are Attacking US Hospitals

Plus: Deepfake disinformation spotted in the wild, Android privacy problems in China, Reddit gets phished, and more. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/20QhZBD

The FBI’s Most Controversial Surveillance Tool Is Under Threat

A review of the FBI’s access to foreign intelligence reveals troubling misuse of powerful surveillance tech. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/Fm7JY0i

UK strikes seven Russians with first-ever joint cyber crime sanctions

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In a coordinated action with US authorities, the UK has imposed sanctions on seven Russian cyber criminals associated with the deployment of the Conti and Ryuk ransomware as well as the Trickbot banking trojan. This follows a thorough investigation led by the National Crime Agency (NCA) and marks the UK’s first-ever joint cyber crime sanctions. According to the British government, ransomware is a “tier one national security threat” that’s increasingly used to attack businesses and public sector organisations. Ransomware groups known as Conti, Wizard Spider, UNC1878, Gold Blackburn, Trickman, and Trickbot have been responsible for the deployment of ransomware strains… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/dBNmyL8

Meet the Creator of North Korea’s Favorite Crypto Privacy Service

The world’s most prolific crypto thieves have used Sinbad.io to launder tens of millions. Its creator, “Mehdi,” answers WIRED’s questions. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/yfPc0wt

Russia’s Ransomware Gangs Are Being Named and Shamed

Members of the Trickbot and Conti cybercrime gangs have been sanctioned in an unprecedented wave of action against the country’s hackers. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/g5qPTty

Tech Is Changing What it Means to Have Dominant Hand

Computers, mobile phones, and the expanding digital landscape are causing adaptive behaviors, whether you’re a leftie or a rightie. from Ideas Latest https://ift.tt/NsZuCYO

We asked Hardt Hyperloop which modes of transport are over- or underrated

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Magnetic floating pods traveling through a series of tubes sounds like a scene from sci-fi movies, right? But what if they could become a new mode of mass transport? Yes, we’re talking about the hyperloop. One of the companies working on the tech is Hardt Hyperloop. Since 2020, the Netherlands-based startup has developed numerous prototypes and test benches. It’s also part of the European Hyperloop Center and has received €15 million in funding from the EU Commission. The company is developing hyperloop tech for passengers and cargo, enabling travel through a network of low-pressure tubes using magnetic levitation. The pods are… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/WgMaVs0

The End of Grading

How the irrational mathematics of measuring, ranking, and rating distort the value of stuff, work, people—everything. from Ideas Latest https://ift.tt/rWaxeJm

Want to Delete Your Twitter DMs? Good Luck With That

People in Europe are making GDPR requests to have their private messages erased, but Elon’s team is ignoring them. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/ZN9KHuD

If Python is too slow for you, Crystal could be your savior

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Learning a new programming language can open your mind in ways you never thought possible. Just like learning a new human language like Spanish or Mandarin, you learn to think with different words and structures. You tap into the cultures and communities of the speakers and learn how they see the world. It’s enriching, to say the least. The neat thing about programming languages is that the first one you learn is always the hardest. Once you understand basic structures like if-clauses and for-loops, you’ll see them popping up in many new languages you might learn. And, unlike human languages,… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/aryklIQ

The Political Theater Behind the State of the Union Data Privacy Push

Biden’s speech calling for better data protections got a standing ovation from both sides of the aisle. So, where’s a federal privacy law? from Security Latest https://ift.tt/FjQKi2P

Car with no human inside drives on European road for first time

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For the first time, a car with no human inside has driven on a public road in Europe. The feat was accomplished by Vay, a German startup. The company uses an approach called “teledriving” to remote-control cars from sites located miles away. Operators pilot the vehicles with steering wheels, petals, and monitors. They also recieve road traffic sounds via microphones and headphones. The system resembles racing simulators for video games — only the action on the screens is happening for real. Redundant mobile networks provide the data transmission. In the event of a network failures or emergency, the vehicle automatically… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/W2g4roL

Danish wind turbine maker discovers way to make blades recyclable

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No matter how beneficial increasing wind energy generation is, at the end of their lives, wind turbine blades end up in landfills. But now major a European wind turbine manufacturer — Denmark-based Vestas — has found a way to make the blades recyclable and circular. Unlike the vast majority of a turbine’s components that have established recycling circles, blade recycling has posed a serious challenge. That’s because of the presence of epoxy resin, a resilient substance that has so far proved problematic to break down into reusable components. “Until now, the wind industry has believed that turbine blade material calls… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/WoprY9J

Health Care Bias Is Dangerous. But So Are ‘Fairness’ Algorithms

Medical systems disproportionately fail people of color, but a focus on fixing the numbers can actually lead to worse outcomes. from Ideas Latest https://ift.tt/r14NKw3

How the US Can Stop Data Brokers' Worst Practices—Right Now

Legal experts say a key law should already prevent brokers from collecting and selling data that's weaponized against vulnerable people. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/WGtB9ZM

There’s already a gender gap in who’s leading the metaverse

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Here’s the truth: the tech industry has long had a gender imbalance problem, and it starts early. Globally, women obtain 53% of STEM university degrees, but in the EU only 34% of graduates in the field are women, according to data from Girls Go Circular. That has obvious knock-on effects. According to figures from Eurostat, women hold only 17% of major technology jobs, such as programming, systems analysis, or software development. Startup funding too poses particular challenges for women in technology. In 2021, despite a record amount of capital invested that year in Europe, women founders were on the receiving… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/MPzEfso

Biden's SOTU: Data Privacy Is Now a Must-Hit US State of the Union Topic

Biden's speech proves protecting personal info is no longer a fringe issue. Now, Congress just needs to do something about it. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/nXvKabo

Can the UK’s approach to AI regulation give it an edge over the EU?

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The EU’s landmark AI Act is moving closer to reality, as a rival rulebook forms across the English Channel. The union aims to agree on draft rules for the world-first AI statute next month, Reuters reported on Monday. “We are still in good time to fulfil the overall target and calendar that we assumed in the very beginning, which is to wrap it up during this mandate,” Dragos Tudorache, an MEP and co-rapporteur of the EU AI Act, told the news agency. As the EU legislation nears enactment, lawmakers in the UK are shaping a very different approach. Their priorities are… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/kg6OaZq

This tiny flying robot could work as an artificial pollinator

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The decline of pollinators, particularly bees, is having a grave impact on agriculture and human health. Scientists estimate that 4.7% of the world’s total production of fruit, 3.2% of vegetables, and 4.7% nuts is now lost because of inadequate pollination. But there’s hope. Researchers at Tampere University in Finland have developed a robot that could serve as an artificial pollinator. The team was inspired by dandelion seeds and tapped into the technological advances in stimuli-responsive polymers used in small, wirelessly-controlled soft-bodied robots, which can walk, swim, jump, or even hover. The result was a polymer-assembly robot that uses wind and light… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/nbjVWF1

The Age of AI Hacking Is Closer Than You Think

Algorithms struggle to understand human ambiguity. But such quirks are a flimsy shield against the threat of artificially intelligent hackers. from Ideas Latest https://ift.tt/CEatwno

Europe plots to replace natural gas with geothermal energy

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Europe has a long tradition in geothermal energy, with Iceland, France, and Hungary historically dominating the industry. In recent years, however, a range of other countries have entered the sector. Their motivations are clear: geothermal energy is 100% renewable, endless, and reliable. And the attraction has only intensified amid the drive to reduce dependence on Russian natural gas. Currently, Germany is leading the transition. At the end of 2022, the country’s government published a plan targeting a tenfold increase in geothermal output: 10TWh by 2030. “We’re sitting on a gold mine,” Christian Peltl, director of geothermal energy at SWR, the… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/uXYwdBq

Inside Safe City, Moscow’s AI Surveillance Dystopia

Moscow promised residents lower crime rates through an expansive smart city project. Then Vladimir Putin invaded Ukraine. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/hErRkf2

Googling for Software Downloads Is Extra Risky Right Now

Plus: The FTC cracks down on GoodRx, Microsoft boots “verified” phishing scammers, researchers disclose EV charger vulnerabilities, and more. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/rHhJwvC

The Chinese Spy Balloon Shows the Downsides of Spy Balloons

A popular military tool during the Cold War, spy balloons have since fallen out of favor—for good reason. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/lPSergO

EU’s green tech funding plans divides bloc over global subsidy race

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The EU’s new green tech funding plan has sparked concerns about an escalating global subsidy race. The initiative was launched in response to the US’ Inflation Reduction Act. The act provides $369 billion of subsidies for green technologies, largely through tax credits for products “made in America.” The incentives have triggered fears that EU companies will be enticed to redirect investment and production to the US. Critics claim the measures amount to protectionism that violates existing trade agreements. In response to the act, the EU this week unveiled the Green Deal Industrial Plan — a roadmap to make the bloc’s… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/2A4z0vV

How to market… without a marketing department

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How do you set your company apart from other brands? How do you sell people a product they’re not used to? And how is all that possible without a marketing department? John Schoolcraft, Chief Creative Officer at Oatly, has an answer to all these questions. In 2012, together with CEO Toni Petersson, Schoolcraft began to transform a 30-year-old maker of oat drinks into a worldwide movement devoted to promoting a more sustainable lifestyle. We caught up with Schoolcraft at TNW 2022 and learned how Oatly created a thriving marketing strategy… without a marketing department. If you’d like to get his insights in full, check… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/rwafKSU

A New Drug Switched Off My Appetite. What’s Left?

Mounjaro did what decades of struggle with managing weight couldn’t. Welcome to the post-hunger age. from Ideas Latest https://ift.tt/A38b0I1

Congress Has a Lo-Fi Plan to Fix the Classified Documents Mess

As unsecured docs pile up, a bipartisan group of lawmakers is itching to overhaul the nation’s secret secret-sharing operation. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/4Mkra0g

Netflix’s US Password-Sharing Crackdown Isn’t Happening—Yet

Accidental revisions to a US Help Center page sparked confusion about the streamer's next moves. But restrictions on account sharing are still coming soon. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/eGcl2B6

Portugal is set to house Europe’s biggest solar farm

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Spain-based Iberdola has secured an environmental license from the Portuguese Environment Agency (APA) to build a photovoltaic plant in Santiago do Cacém in Portugal. The company claims that it’s set to be Europe’s biggest solar farm and the fifth largest in the world. The solar farm, named after the poet Fernando Pessoa, will start operation in 2025 and will have an installed capacity of 1,200MW. According to Iberdola, it’ll be able to generate enough green energy to cover the needs of around 430,000 homes — equivalent to a population twice the size of the city of Porto. The facility is… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/DlWMs0C

The Case for Outsourcing Morality to AI

Human judgement is notoriously fallible. As AI infiltrates more aspects of society, maybe some “responsibility gaps” are a good thing. from Ideas Latest https://ift.tt/BvPZ87w

Auto industry, take note: This student-made EV cleans the air while driving

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An EV that cleans the air while driving might seem like a pipe dream , but a student team based at the Eindhoven University of Technology has made it reality. TU/ecomotive — as the team is called — has been creating inspiring, environmentally conscious concept cars for over a decade now. Among the concept vehicles presented by the students, last year’s Zem — which stands for “zero emission mobility” — is the most outstanding. It’s a passenger EV that not only paves the way towards vehicle carbon neutrality, but also cleans the air while driving, something that, in turn, reduces… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/Ii6zmfn

Fake Pictures of People of Color Won’t Fix AI Bias

Companies claim synthetic images can add diversity to AI data sets, but they carry functional and moral risks. from Ideas Latest https://ift.tt/43JTsl5

Enter the Hunter Satellites Preparing for Space War

True Anomaly, a startup backed by US senator JD Vance's VC firm, plans to launch prototype pursuit satellites on a SpaceX flight later this year. from Security Latest https://ift.tt/6iDI1MG