Techbest – Top Tech Reviews In Australia
The best in Australian gadgets and technology
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Huawei FreeBuds SE 4 ANC Wireless Earbuds, 50 Hours Battery Life, Multi-Mode Action Noise Cancelling for Commuter and Office, 4.3g Lightweight Headphones, Bluetooth 5.4, Clear Calling, IP54
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Bendigo and Adelaide Bank has initiated a major transformation of its technology operations, ushering in a new phase through its strategic alliances with Infosys and Genpact. The agreements, lasting seven and six years respectively, are poised to instigate considerable alterations within the bank’s IT framework.
The bank has recognised that these collaborations will affect its technology and business sectors, although precise information on the degree of impact has not been revealed. CEO Richard Fennell emphasises the necessity of approaching these changes with compassion, acknowledging the difficult time for affected employees.
With the new agreement, Infosys is tasked with significantly enhancing Bendigo Bank’s IT service delivery. The partnership aims to bolster the bank’s skills in software development and artificial intelligence, fields in which Infosys has already shown significant proficiency.
Genpact, recognised for its capabilities in digital transformation, will concentrate on process improvement and delivery. This partnership is anticipated to elevate productivity and enhance risk management, aligning with Bendigo Bank’s strategic goals.
The partnerships between Bendigo and Adelaide Bank with Infosys and Genpact signify a transformative era in technology. While adjustments to the workforce are expected, the bank is dedicated to managing these shifts thoughtfully. The alliances are set to foster sophisticated IT service delivery and process improvement, laying a strong groundwork for future expansion.
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With the ongoing evolution of the digital realm, data sovereignty has become a crucial issue for Australian businesses. Julian Challingsworth, MD & CEO of Infotrust, underscores the vital need to comprehend data location and access permissions. As geopolitical tensions rise and regulatory demands tighten, companies must adeptly handle these hurdles while fulfilling customer needs. Data governance and procurement strategies should align with national jurisdictions, establishing data sovereignty as a strategic concern.
Challingsworth emphasizes the challenge of “shadow AI,” where staff utilize AI tools outside sanctioned governance protocols. This practice introduces considerable risks, as boards might remain uninformed about the scale of these activities within their organisations. Proper oversight and management of AI tools are essential to safeguard data integrity and security.
As AI adoption accelerates, organisations encounter familiar obstacles reminiscent of the initial days of cloud computing. Simon McKay, CEO of Cyber at Infotrust, highlights the urgent need for solid governance structures to oversee AI-related risks. The swift embrace of AI technologies demands effective guardrails to secure these tools and optimize their benefits.
The threat environment is intensifying, with the interval between vulnerability detection and exploitation drastically shortening. McKay observes that vulnerabilities, which previously remained dormant for months, are now being exploited within days or even hours. AI technologies are amplifying both the scale and complexity of cyber-attacks, emphasizing the necessity for vigilant security measures.
Dan Suto, Executive General Manager of Managed Technology at Infotrust, asserts that many organisations already hold the necessary cyber capabilities but are not fully leveraging them. Visibility remains a critical challenge, as it is impossible to protect that which is unseen. Organisations need to dismantle silos between their infrastructure and security teams to develop a unified cyber strategy.
For rapidly evolving organisations, the urgency to integrate new technologies often surpasses governance frameworks, posing future risks. Suto advises achieving a balance between swift technological adoption and strong governance to reduce potential security vulnerabilities.
As cyber threats continue to evolve, Australian organisations must traverse the complexities of data sovereignty, AI governance, and visibility. By confronting these challenges, companies can bolster their cyber resilience while promoting innovation and growth. An effective cyber strategy necessitates coordinated efforts across infrastructure and security teams, ensuring that existing resources are fully utilized.
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Wireless Earbuds, Bluetooth 5.3 Headphones 2024 Wireless Headphones in Ear with ENC Mic, Bluetooth Earphones Noise Cancelling Ear buds with 50H Hifi Stereo, IP7 Waterproof Headset, USB-C, LED Display
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Wi-Fi 7 represents the most recent advancement in wireless tech, offering unmatched speeds and the ability to accommodate multiple devices at once. However, these benefits come with drawbacks, especially regarding older smart home gadgets.
Wi-Fi 7 aims for backward compatibility to support older devices. However, many of these devices experience difficulties connecting to Wi-Fi 7 mesh networks. A key feature, Multi-Link Operation (MLO), intends to minimize lag by allowing devices to link across various bands. Unfortunately, this often results in confusion for older devices that are limited to the 2.4GHz band, resulting in frequent disconnections.
For numerous users, the transition from Wi-Fi 6/6E to Wi-Fi 7 may not be noticeable. If your NBN plan is under gigabit speeds, or if your primary usage centers around internet streaming and browsing, Wi-Fi 6/6E is still adequate. Those who transfer sizable files within their home network may find Wi-Fi 7’s advantages more beneficial.
Problems with Wi-Fi 7 are widespread. Reports from forums and technology sites frequently indicate that most smart home IoT devices still rely on the 2.4GHz band, which is not optimally supported by Wi-Fi 7 systems. Router manufacturers, such as Asus and TP-Link, have recommended deactivating Wi-Fi 7’s advanced features to preserve connectivity, effectively reverting to Wi-Fi 6.
Households with a range of devices, from new to over five years old, encounter issues with Wi-Fi 7. Items like smart hot water heaters and air conditioners, which depend on 2.4GHz connectivity, face struggles with the automatic band-switching features of Wi-Fi 7, leading to frequent connection interruptions.
The idea of swapping out incompatible devices isn’t a feasible option for many. The expense of replacing high-value appliances that operate satisfactorily on older Wi-Fi standards can be daunting. Numerous smart home devices are not yet designed to accommodate the latest Wi-Fi technologies, rendering replacement an impractical remedy.
After experimenting with Wi-Fi 7 systems, reverting to a Wi-Fi 6 mesh system showed to be more effective for sustaining stable connections among mixed device types. For example, the D-Link Aquila Pro AI M60 mesh system supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, allowing older devices to stay connected without interruptions.
While Wi-Fi 7 delivers advanced features and enhancements, it may not be suitable for homes with a diverse range of smart home devices, particularly those that depend on 2.4GHz. Wi-Fi 6 continues to be a strong and dependable option for such settings, balancing speed and compatibility efficiently.
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The upcoming national security label for smart devices in Australia, anticipated to roll out in 2027, intends to give consumers a clear signal regarding a product’s security attributes at the point of sale. This initiative marks a pivotal change for manufacturers, importers, suppliers, and distributors, focusing on transparency and safety in purchasing.
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The industry trial starting in October 2026 offers businesses the opportunity to engage in the certification and labelling procedures well ahead of the nationwide launch. By participating, companies will:
Engaging in the pilot program offers significant time and visibility, enabling businesses to work with the project scheme team and testing organizations. This collaboration aids in preparing for certification. Early involvement also reflects a dedication to security, which will be valued by customers and partners.
As connected devices become crucial to everyday life, their security remains variable. Studies show that approximately 60% of IoT manufacturers provide no clear channels for reporting vulnerabilities. The new security label closes this gap by presenting a simple way to identify products adhering to rigorous security requirements.
The Security Labelling Scheme for Smart Devices is an essential element of the 2023 – 2030 Australian Cyber Security Strategy. This scheme is being jointly developed by the Connected Technology Alliance in partnership with the Australian Government, with input from industry and consumer representatives. The initiative has garnered substantial engagement, with leading manufacturers and testing agencies finalizing the criteria. Systems supporting the labelling scheme are expected to be operational by September.
The innovative security label initiative for smart devices in Australia is poised to transform the perception of security at the point of sale. With a pilot program launching in October 2026, businesses can participate early, ensuring compliance with upcoming standards and achieving recognition as leaders in the industry. As security for connected devices becomes more critical, this initiative aims to provide consumers with clarity and confidence.
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eleror X9 Mini Wireless Earbuds for Sleeping & Daily Use, Extra-Small Bluetooth Earphones, Full-Silicone Comfort Tiny Ear Buds, Noise-Isolating, Secure Fit, ENC Clear Calls (Gray)
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The popular JavaScript library Axios has faced a supply chain breach impacting over 100 million downloads each week. The attack aimed at Windows, Linux, and macOS platforms, introducing a remote access trojan (RAT) via harmful dependencies.
The breach involved the compromise of the npm account held by Axios’ main maintainer, Jason Saayman. By switching the registered email to a ProtonMail address, the attacker manually uploaded harmful packages, circumventing the GitHub Actions continuous integration system.
The intruder initially launched a non-malicious version, plain-crypto-js@4.2.0, to create a credible npm publishing record. The malicious iteration, plain-crypto-js@4.2.1, was then released, designed to evade security scans.
Those utilizing Axios should promptly revert to either axios@1.14.0 or axios@0.30.3. Analyzing network logs for connections to sfrclak.com and specific file paths may assist in detecting possible compromises.
The Open Source Malware community characterized Axios as one of the most utilized JavaScript libraries worldwide. They emphasized the attack’s complexity, utilizing obfuscation and anti-analysis tactics to implement RAT features across platforms.
This prominent supply chain attack on the Axios npm package highlights the weaknesses in prevalent software dependencies. The attack’s complexity and emphasis on data collection imply participation from an advanced persistent threat actor, rather than financially-driven cybercriminals.
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NBN Co’s forecasts for average revenue per user (ARPU) growth up to FY33 are being evaluated. HoustonKemp, a consultancy working with the ACCC, has voiced skepticism about these estimates, potentially jeopardizing certain of NBN Co’s upgrade investments.
The consultancy analyzed NBN Co’s expenditures from the last three years and projected for the following three, determining whether they were “prudent and efficient.” HoustonKemp contested several aspects of network enhancements, proposing that portions of the copper network could have been retained longer without updates.
HoustonKemp highlighted concerns that NBN Co’s investments in the fibre network are outpacing customer needs, questioning the validity of the anticipated ARPU increase for fibre subscribers. Their evaluation proposes that the expected ARPU rise may be exaggerated.
The ACCC has signaled its intent to approve a reduced capital expenditure for the upcoming three years relative to what NBN Co proposed. The ACCC’s preliminary assessment indicates a total forecast capital expenditure of $6.9 billion for the 2027–29 period, which is 18.2% lower than NBN Co’s initial proposal.
HoustonKemp found no issues with NBN Co’s intended spending on technology, including AI and automation, confirming that the technology investment plan emphasizes cost effectiveness.
NBN Co is facing examination over its anticipated ARPU growth, with apprehensions regarding the prudence of swift fibre upgrades. While the ACCC recommends lower capital expenditures, the majority of NBN Co’s spending has been approved as effective.
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A Western Australian council incurred a loss of around $350,000 due to a phishing scam, illuminating the ongoing weaknesses in local government IT infrastructures. This incident, presented in the report from the Western Australian Office of the Auditor General (OAG), brings attention to the continuous hurdles local authorities encounter in protecting their digital frameworks.
The audit characterizes this event as a successful social engineering tactic, wherein criminals exploited the council’s financial system to change a supplier’s account information. The report does not disclose if the misappropriated funds were recovered or which specific council was involved.
In addition to the significant phishing incident, the report uncovers further security deficiencies. In a concerning example, a council’s internal networks were reachable from a public library due to insufficient network controls. Another organization failed to update default administrator passwords, creating vulnerabilities in its building management system. Additionally, a server room in another council lacked fire suppression measures, raising alarms about physical security.
Weak access management practices were identified as the most widespread vulnerability, with 78 issues detected across 36 organizations. Only one entity complied with the access management criteria, while merely two entities adhered to the endpoint security protocols. Such shortcomings heighten the likelihood of data breaches, financial setbacks, and damage to reputation.
The audit evaluated 15 organizations, revealing a decrease in capability maturity across all 10 control categories compared to the preceding year. This decline is partly due to the inclusion of four new entities, but previously examined organizations also exhibited drops in various categories.
Auditor General Caroline Spencer stressed the significance of training and awareness over expensive technological solutions. She advised the adoption of phishing-resistant multi-factor authentication, regular security awareness programs, pre-employment background checks for sensitive positions, and efficient offboarding protocols.
The WA Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety is partnering with the Office of Digital Government on a cyber security pilot initiative aimed at bolstering the local government sector’s defences against cyber threats. This report signifies the seventh iteration of the OAG’s audit on general computer controls pertaining to local government entities.
The phishing incident that resulted in a $350,000 loss for a WA council underscores the urgent necessity for enhanced cyber security practices within local governments. The OAG’s findings shed light on persistent vulnerabilities and highlight the critical role of training and awareness in countering cyber threats. These insights are intended to assist local authorities in strengthening their digital safeguards and protecting taxpayer information from malicious threats.
