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University of Sydney’s Digital IT Code Repository Breached

wpengine on December 24, 2025

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Data Breach of IT Code Library at the University of Sydney

Brief Overview

The IT code library online at the University of Sydney was compromised.
Information of 27,500 people, including current staff, affiliates, and alumni, was exposed.
Personal information such as names, birthdates, and addresses has been breached.
The investigation into the breach is ongoing and is expected to conclude by 2026.
Those affected and relevant authorities have been informed.

Overview of the Breach

The University of Sydney faced a major cybersecurity breach concerning its online IT code library. This incident revealed historical data files containing personal information for roughly 27,500 existing and former staff, affiliates, and alumni.

Incident of data breach at University of Sydney

Breach Specifics

The notification from the university indicated that the incident involved unauthorized access and the downloading of certain data files. These files were historical records mainly utilized for testing during the coding development phases. The breach affected personal details, such as names, birth dates, contact numbers, residential addresses, and basic employment information.

Effects on Individuals

Approximately 10,000 current employees and affiliates, 12,500 past employees and affiliates, and around 5,000 alumni and students, along with six supporters, are among those impacted. The data spans from 2010 to 2019, with the latest records accurate as of September 2018.

Response from the University

Nicole Gower, Vice President of Operations, stated that an inquiry is in progress and is anticipated to extend into 2026. The university has reassured that the breach was confined to this specific platform, with no other systems compromised. Efforts to inform both the involved individuals and the pertinent authorities have been undertaken. The compromised datasets have been removed from the code library.

Conclusion

The intrusion into the University of Sydney’s online IT code library highlights the critical necessity for robust cybersecurity practices, particularly in educational settings that manage extensive personal data. With the investigation still ongoing, the university is concentrating on minimizing risks and averting future issues.

Q: What information was compromised during the breach?

A: The breach revealed personal information, such as names, dates of birth, contact numbers, residential addresses, and employment-related data.

Q: How many people were impacted by this breach?

A: About 27,500 individuals were impacted, incorporating current and former staff, affiliates, alumni, students, and supporters.

Q: What measures has the University of Sydney taken in response?

A: The university has alerted the relevant authorities, notified those affected, erased the datasets from the code library, and launched an investigation.

Q: Will this breach affect other university systems?

A: The university indicated that the breach was confined to a single platform and did not affect other systems.

Q: How long is the investigation projected to last?

A: The inquiry into the breach is expected to carry on until 2026.

Q: What actions are being taken to avert future breaches?

A: The university is likely reviewing its cybersecurity protocols and implementing enhanced security policies to prevent future incidents.

Defence Reveals IT and Digital Contractor Expenditures

wpengine on December 23, 2025

Defence Expenditure on IT and Digital Contractors

Brief Overview

Defence allocated $410 million for IT and digital contractors in 2023-24.
Total government expenditure on external IT workforce was nearly $1.8 billion.
Initiatives are being implemented to enhance internal capabilities and lessen contractor dependence.
Health, Treasury, and Social Services also represent significant expenditures.

Insight into Defence Expenditure

The Australian Department of Defence has disclosed an expenditure of $410 million on IT and digital contractors for the 2023-24 fiscal year. This is the first instance where these costs have been specifically outlined, shedding light on Defence’s involvement in governmental IT spending.

Overall Government IT Labour Expenses

The total government expenditure on IT and digital external labour comes to just under $1.8 billion, reflecting a reduction from $1.92 billion in 2021-22. This drop corresponds with a strategic shift towards building internal capabilities and decreasing reliance on external contractors.

Defence’s Standing Among Government Departments

Defence is at the forefront of IT and digital contractor expenditures, outpacing other departments such as Health and Aged Care ($296 million), Treasury ($176 million), and Employment and Workplace Relations ($171 million). This demonstrates Defence’s large investment in digital innovation and technology progression.

Contractors Versus Internal Resources

The most recent audit highlights a governmental strategy to enhance internal capabilities. The government is advocating that departments reduce hiring external labour and concentrate on developing internal skills, particularly in vital fields like IT.

Consequences and Future Pathways

The audit’s results hint at a positive initiative by the government to optimise costs related to external IT labour. By prioritising internal development, the government aspires to create a more resilient and self-sufficient public service.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Defence’s considerable spending on IT and digital contractors mirrors a larger governmental movement towards managing the costs of external labour while bolstering internal capabilities. This strategic adjustment aims to ensure efficient and effective resource management across public service sectors.

Q: What was Defence’s total spending on IT and digital contractors for 2023-24?

A: Defence allocated $410 million for IT and digital contractors in 2023-24.

Q: How does the overall government spending on external IT labour compare to earlier years?

A: The total expenditure was nearly $1.8 billion, down from $1.92 billion in 2021-22.

Q: Which other departments were significant spenders on IT and digital contractors?

A: Major spenders include Health and Aged Care, Treasury, and Employment and Workplace Relations.

Q: What is the government’s approach regarding external labour recruitment?

A: The government aims to enhance internal capabilities and diminish dependency on external contractors.

Defence expenditure on IT and digital contractors disclosed

Previous Shelde Founders Present Cyber Engineering at ctrl:cyber

wpengine on December 14, 2025

Quick Read

Ex-founders of Shelde have joined ctrl:cyber, boosting its cyber engineering capabilities.
Ctrl:cyber aims to provide onshore cybersecurity services throughout Australia.
The team contributes expertise in identity, architecture, cloud integrations, and technical enhancements.
Ctrl offers services including penetration testing, risk management, and compliance.
This development represents a major milestone for the growth and service offerings of ctrl:cyber.

Ctrl:cyber Enhances Cyber Engineering with Experienced Professionals

In a tactical step, ctrl:cyber has onboarded a skilled group of experts, including ex-Shelde founders, to strengthen its cyber engineering proficiencies. This team has a successful history of directing cyber engineering initiatives for prominent Australian enterprises and government organizations, demonstrating deep knowledge in identity, architecture, and cloud integrations.

Advancing Onshore Cybersecurity Services

Ctrl:cyber, an Australian-based cybersecurity company, is dedicated to offering thorough, onshore cyber services. The inclusion of this knowledgeable team is poised to enhance ctrl:cyber’s capabilities in the design, deployment, and management of IT and cloud systems, ensuring steadfast cybersecurity measures throughout.

Augmenting Skills in Cybersecurity

The newly acquired capability will greatly improve ctrl:cyber’s skill set in areas such as penetration testing, governance, risk, compliance, and risk operations. This move guarantees that technical insights and recommendations are easily executed and maintained, with all processes carried out domestically, bolstering Australia’s cybersecurity framework.

A Landmark in Ctrl:cyber’s Development

Steve Williams, Founder and CEO of ctrl:cyber, emphasized the strategic significance of this team addition. “The decision of these individuals to join ctrl:cyber is truly a pivotal moment for us. They’ve created and led thriving cyber organizations in the past, and their choice to continue their journey with Ctrl speaks volumes about what we are creating,” stated Williams.

About ctrl:cyber

Ctrl:cyber is committed to delivering comprehensive cybersecurity solutions that include advisory, engineering, and operational assistance. Completely operating onshore in Australia, the firm remains privately owned, with a dedication to protecting Australia’s digital ecosystem.

Summary

Ctrl:cyber has strategically improved its cyber engineering capabilities by incorporating a group of former Shelde founders. This advancement is projected to enhance their onshore cybersecurity services across Australia, concentrating on key areas like penetration testing and risk management. The initiative signifies an important growth milestone for ctrl:cyber, solidifying its role as a frontrunner in the Australian cybersecurity arena.

Q: What does the integration of former Shelde founders into ctrl:cyber signify?

A: The integration of former Shelde founders enriches ctrl:cyber with vast experience and expertise, enhancing its ability to provide comprehensive cybersecurity solutions.

Q: What measures does ctrl:cyber take to ensure its operations remain onshore?

A: Ctrl:cyber is dedicated to operating wholly onshore by employing local professionals and managing all activities within Australia to support the local cybersecurity framework.

Q: What primary areas does ctrl:cyber concentrate on?

A: Ctrl:cyber concentrates on advisory, engineering, and operational support, offering services such as penetration testing, governance, risk and compliance, and risk operations.

Q: How does the new team’s addition benefit clients of ctrl:cyber?

A: Clients will gain from improved engineering capabilities, delivered by a team with extensive experience in steering successful cyber initiatives at top levels.

Q: What is the future outlook for ctrl:cyber following this strategic move?

A: This strategic initiative positions ctrl:cyber for ongoing growth and innovation within the cybersecurity industry, further affirming its leadership in the Australian market.

Unisys Obtains $84M IT Assistance Agreement from Defence

wpengine on December 13, 2025

Unisys Gains Defence IT Support Contract

Quick Summary

Unisys has obtained an $84 million IT support contract from Defence, succeeding Fujitsu as of March next year.
This contract centers on providing national deskside support for Defence personnel throughout Australia.
Defence intends to modernise its ICT strategies and onboard technical expertise internally.
The agreement with Unisys will extend through March 2028, with a potential four-year extension.

Unisys Obtains Defence IT Support Contract

Defence has re-engaged Unisys to deliver IT support services under an $84 million agreement, replacing the current provider, Fujitsu, commencing in March next year. This strategic decision aligns with Defence’s broader goal to modernise its information and communication technology (ICT) strategies and integrate technical expertise within the organisation.

Defence awards $84M IT support contract to Unisys

Emphasis on Internal ICT Capabilities

The national deskside support (NDS) agreement encompasses IT support for Defence staff across Australia. A spokesperson from Defence emphasized the organisation’s strategic objective of swiftly resolving technical issues, which enhances its capacity to handle ICT projects internally and adapt to strategic alterations effectively.

Shift from Fujitsu to Unisys

The existing NDS contract with Fujitsu, initially valued at $99 million and extended to 2025, has seen multiple revisions, with the latest valuation reaching $306 million. Fujitsu’s contract will temporarily overlap with Unisys’ for the next three to four months during the transition phase.

Contract Timeline and Future Possibilities

The new contract with Unisys will be effective until March 2028, with the option for an additional four-year extension. Unisys is returning to this role after previously providing IT support to Defence before transferring the contract to Fujitsu amid a reorganisation of Defence’s support frameworks.

Overview

Unisys has successfully obtained an $84 million contract to deliver IT support services to Defence, succeeding Fujitsu. This initiative is part of Defence’s strategy to modernise its ICT operations and develop technical capabilities in-house. Set to commence in March next year, the contract will last until 2028 with potential extensions, marking Unisys’ return to a familiar position within Defence’s IT support framework.

Q&A Discussion

Q: What prompted Defence to transition from Fujitsu to Unisys?

A: Defence seeks to modernise its ICT strategies, and Unisys is anticipated to bolster internal capabilities and effectively tackle technological challenges.

Q: What is the duration of the new contract with Unisys?

A: The contract with Unisys will be active until March 2028, with the possibility of a four-year extension.

Q: What will take place during the transition phase?

A: The existing agreements with Fujitsu and Unisys will operate simultaneously for three to four months to ensure a seamless transition.

Q: Why is the national deskside support (NDS) contract important?

A: The NDS contract offers IT support to Defence employees nationwide, playing a vital role in sustaining operational efficiency.

Cochlear Trials Cutting-Edge Voice-to-Text Integration with Salesforce for Improved Lead Management

wpengine on December 11, 2025

Cochlear’s Cutting-Edge Voice-to-Text Integration with Salesforce

Quick Overview

Cochlear is utilizing AWS services to embed voice-to-text features within its CRM framework.
The solution leverages Amazon Lex and an internal AI platform called ‘Clark’, built on Amazon Bedrock.
This integration seeks to simplify lead management for sales personnel by automating data entry.
The pilot program is projected to launch for sales teams before the conclusion of the financial year.

Augmenting CRM with Voice-to-Text Solutions

Cochlear tests voice-to-text Salesforce integration for lead management

Cochlear is trailblazing a new integration that could transform how sales teams handle leads. By incorporating voice-to-text functionalities into their CRM system powered by Salesforce, Cochlear intends to abolish the manual documentation of management notes after meetings. This advancement is a significant evolution for Cochlear’s “sales road warriors” who can now dedicate their attention to primary responsibilities rather than administrative tasks.

The Significance of Amazon Web Services

The integration is strongly dependent on AWS services, notably employing Amazon Lex as the conversational interface. Cochlear has created an internal AI solution, fondly named ‘Clark’, which is based on Amazon Bedrock and its extension, Bedrock AgentCore. This AI platform is tailored to simplify the data input procedure by translating spoken data into structured information that is directly entered into the CRM.

Adaptive AI ‘Clark’

Clark, the AI walled garden, was unveiled at the AWS re:Invent conference by Andy McLaughlin, Cochlear’s director of IT networks and telecommunications. Named in honour of Dr. Graeme Clark, a visionary in cochlear implant technology, this system is still undergoing piloting but displays strong promise for future deployment.

Operational Mechanism

Sales staff will dial a dedicated line following client meetings, where the system will identify the caller and associate them with the relevant customer case in Salesforce. After inputting a security PIN, they can verbally relay meeting information and future goals to the system. This data is processed by Bedrock and entered into the CRM, facilitating instantaneous updates without requiring manual data entry.

Anticipated Deployment

Presently, Cochlear’s technology teams are assessing this system with the intention to implement it across their sales personnel by the end of the financial year. This progression is expected to boost efficiency and productivity, enabling sales teams to prioritize client interactions over data handling.

Synopsis

Cochlear is on the verge of a technological advancement with their voice-to-text CRM integration. By capitalizing on AWS services and their proprietary AI, ‘Clark’, they are poised to refine lead management workflows, minimizing administrative tasks for their sales teams. The launch is projected for the end of the financial year, representing a notable upgrade in Cochlear’s operational effectiveness.

Q: What technology is Cochlear employing for this integration?

A: Cochlear is employing Amazon Lex, Amazon Bedrock, and its extension Bedrock AgentCore for the voice-to-text CRM integration.

Q: What is the goal of Cochlear’s voice-to-text integration?

A: The integration is designed to automate and enhance the process of inputting lead management notes into the CRM, decreasing manual entry for sales teams.

Q: Who is ‘Clark’ and what is its function?

A: ‘Clark’ is Cochlear’s internal AI system, named in honour of Dr. Graeme Clark. It processes conversational data and inputs it into the CRM platform.

Q: When is this system anticipated to be implemented?

A: The system is expected to be introduced to Cochlear’s sales teams later in the financial year.

Q: How does the system maintain security during the procedure?

A: Sales personnel provide a security PIN after calling the dedicated line to guarantee secure data entry.

Q: What advantages could this offer for Cochlear’s sales teams?

A: The integration could greatly lessen the time allocated to administrative duties, enabling sales teams to concentrate more on client engagements and sales goals.

Australia’s Ban on Social Media for Those Under 16 is Now Active: Key Information You Need to Be Aware Of

wpengine on December 10, 2025

Quick Read

Starting December 10, 2025, Australia will implement a ban on social media access for those under 16.
Social media platforms that do not comply could face penalties of up to $50 million.
Age verification methods are required for all platforms.
Messaging applications such as WhatsApp will remain available.
New age-restricted features will be added to gaming platforms.

Understanding the Social Media Ban

Today signifies a major change in the digital environment for families in Australia. Effective from December 10, 2025, the federal government’s regulation prohibits children under 16 from accessing social media. This innovative law is designed to safeguard young individuals from the possible negative impacts of social media.

What the Ban Hopes to Achieve

The primary aim of this regulation is to transfer the duty of online safety from parents to the platforms themselves. For many years, parents have struggled against algorithms meant to keep users engaged for prolonged periods.

The government contends that this “delay” in access will shield developing minds from the adverse effects of social media, including cyberbullying, issues related to body image, and exposure to unsuitable content. By establishing the age threshold at 16, policymakers intend to provide youth additional time to grow before entering the often chaotic realm of social networking.

According to the new regulations, social media companies face penalties of up to A$49.5 million if they do not take “reasonable steps” to prevent under-16s from creating accounts.

Which Platforms Are Included

The eSafety Commissioner has extended its reach, targeting the most frequently used services by teenagers in Australia. Starting today, the following platforms are restricted for individuals under 16:

Facebook
Instagram
Kick
Reddit
Snapchat
Threads
TikTok
Twitch
X (formerly Twitter)
YouTube

Messaging services such as WhatsApp and Messenger Kids are excluded from the restrictions, enabling families to maintain communication. Gaming platforms like Roblox have mostly avoided the ban, although they are rolling out their own age-restricted features to align with safer online environment standards.

How Age Verification Works for Each Service

The foremost inquiry leading up to today has centered around how these companies would validate age without infringing on privacy rights. The legislation permits various methods, and multiple strategies are being implemented today.

Meta (Facebook, Instagram, Threads)

Meta has chosen a stringent deactivation policy for accounts suspected of belonging to users under 16. If your account is flagged, you must verify your age to restore access. They are utilizing a third-party service known as Yoti, which enables users to submit a government ID or capture a video selfie that estimates age via facial analysis technology.

Snapchat

Snapchat is adopting a slightly different approach by locking accounts for three years instead of deleting them right away. To unlock an account, users must verify that they are 16 or older. Snap has collaborated with k-ID to provide verification through government ID or facial age estimation. Alternatively, they are presenting a “ConnectID” option, allowing users to confirm their age by linking to an Australian bank account, utilizing the rigorous ID checks that banks already conduct.

TikTok

TikTok is implementing a “multi-layered approach” to compliance. This includes examining usage patterns to identify underage users, along with standard verification methods. Users identified by the system must present government identification, credit card authorization, or utilize facial age estimation services to validate that they meet the age criteria.

Reddit is mandating all Australian users to verify their age for platform access starting today. This process requires providing a date of birth and, for many, completing a verification through a third-party service utilizing government ID or a selfie. Accounts that cannot be confirmed as being owned by individuals aged 16 or older are being suspended, with an appeals process available for those who feel they have been mistakenly banned.

What the Companies Are Saying

The large tech companies have voiced their objections to the specifics of this regulation, even while they comply.

“We align with the Australian Government’s objective of providing safe, age-appropriate online experiences; however, isolating teens from their friends and communities is not the solution.” Meta spokesperson.

“Those under 16 will not be able to keep a Snapchat account.” Snap Inc. statement.

“Although we have disagreements about the scope, effectiveness, and privacy implications of this regulation, as of December 10, we are adapting accordingly…” Reddit public statement.

“Most crucially, this law will not deliver on its promise to enhance the safety of children online, and indeed, will render Australian children less secure on YouTube.” Rachel Lord, YouTube Public Policy Manager.

Summary

The new legislation in Australia signifies a key advancement in online safety for youth, shifting the responsibility to platforms to uphold age restrictions. While the law seeks to defend children from potential dangers associated with social media, it has also ignited discussions regarding its efficacy and the implications for privacy. As companies strive to adhere, the landscape of social media access for young Australians is set to experience considerable changes.

Q: What is the main objective of the social media ban for under-16s in Australia?

A: The main aim is to shield young individuals from the potential threats of social media by postponing their access until they are more mature.

Q: Which platforms are affected by this ban?

A: Platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Kick, Reddit, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, Twitch, X, and YouTube are impacted.

Q: Are messaging apps included in the ban?

A: No, messaging apps including WhatsApp and Messenger Kids are exempt from these restrictions.

Q: How are companies verifying the age of users?

A: Companies are employing methods like government ID verification, video selfies with age estimation, and linking to banking accounts for verification.

Q: What are the potential fines for non-compliance?

A: Social media companies can face penalties of up to $50 million if they do not adhere to the new regulations.

Q: How are gaming platforms affected by the ban?

A: Gaming platforms like Roblox are not directly impacted but are instituting age-restricted features to bolster safety.

Q: What are the companies’ reactions to the new law?

A: Companies such as Meta, Snapchat, Reddit, and YouTube have raised concerns about the breadth, efficacy, and privacy issues surrounding the law, despite their compliance.

Cochlear Incorporates AI into Worldwide Contact Centre Functions

wpengine on December 6, 2025

Quick Read

Cochlear incorporates AI into its Amazon Connect platform to enhance agent and call assessments.
The firm has standardised its worldwide contact centre operations across 14 nations.
AI technologies are being employed to automate assessments and optimize workforce management.
This implementation has resulted in a dramatic rise in call evaluations, escalating from 1,000 to 22,000 monthly.
Cochlear is investigating the feasibility of AI agents for managing voice calls.

Transforming Contact Centres with AI

The hearing technology pioneer based in Sydney, Cochlear, has initiated a groundbreaking journey by integrating AI features into its Amazon Connect contact centre framework. This tactical initiative aims to automate both agent and call assessments, ensuring they meet defined quality and compliance standards.

Cochlear employs AI in contact centre operations

Andy McLaughlin from Cochlear at AWS re:Invent.

Worldwide Standardisation with Amazon Connect

Two and a half years prior, Cochlear restructured its global contact centre services in 14 countries using Amazon Connect. This enabled the company to refine its offerings, which encompass business-to-business and business-to-customer communications, device assistance, orders, insurance, clinical guidance, and sales.

Andy McLaughlin, the director of IT networks and telecommunications, emphasized at the AWS re:Invent conference that the voice channel remains the preferred communication method, vital for both hearing-impaired clients and business associates.

AI-Powered Evaluations and Transcriptions

The integration also introduced call transcription functionalities, which are essential for Cochlear’s continuing AI and automation advancements. This setup is fully aligned with the company’s Salesforce CRM, granting agents rapid access to customer information through screen pops.

With a growing emphasis on Amazon’s extensive AI resources, Cochlear strives to enhance support services while reducing reliance on non-Amazon solutions, thus improving data privacy and operational efficiency.

Improved Agent and Call Evaluations

Initially, Cochlear’s evaluation capacity was constrained, with only a limited number of calls per agent assessed each month. The rollout of AI-driven evaluations has significantly boosted this figure to 22,000 evaluations monthly, indicating a remarkable advancement in performance and compliance supervision.

These evaluations employ both rule-based and generative AI to evaluate compliance and soft skills such as empathy, offering focused insights for agent education and growth.

Optimized Workforce Management

By concentrating on workforce management through forecasting, capacity planning, and scheduling (FCS), Cochlear utilizes two years of historical data within Amazon Connect. This allows for precise call volume projections and efficient agent scheduling, ensuring optimal resource utilization.

The Prospective of AI Agents

In looking forward, Cochlear is contemplating the use of AI agents for managing voice calls. Initial experiments with interactive voice response systems incorporating AI agents have shown potential, although further development is necessary to tackle integration obstacles with current IT systems.

Conclusion

Cochlear’s merger of AI into its global contact centre operations marks a pivotal advancement in boosting service efficiency and agent performance. By harnessing Amazon Connect and its AI capabilities, Cochlear has not only enhanced call evaluations but also laid the groundwork for future breakthroughs in AI-driven customer engagements.

Q&A

Q: What is the main advantage of Cochlear integrating AI into its contact centre?

A: The chief advantage is the significant rise in the quantity of call evaluations, facilitating improved tracking of agent performance and focused training.

Q: How has Amazon Connect benefitted Cochlear’s global efforts?

A: Amazon Connect has standardised call centre technology, boosted reliability, and enabled multi-language capabilities, which are critical for Cochlear’s international operations.

Q: What future intentions does Cochlear have regarding AI in its contact centres?

A: Cochlear is investigating the application of AI agents for voice call management and further enhancing workforce management through AI-backed forecasting and scheduling.

Q: In what way does AI assist Cochlear’s compliance evaluations?

A: AI automations conduct compliance evaluations by pinpointing specific words or phrases, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and company policies.

Samsung’s Effort to Address Triple Zero Mobile Problems Goes Back Nearly Five Years

wpengine on December 5, 2025

Samsung’s Five-Year Battle with Triple Zero Mobile Challenges

Brief Overview

Nearly five years ago, Samsung started addressing triple zero mobile problems.
In 2021, software updates were released for 60 models of Samsung handsets.
Carriers restricted unpatched devices associated with fatalities during the Optus outage.
The challenge relates to VoLTE and emergency calling functionalities on TPG Telecom’s 4G network.
Telecom companies are establishing a unified database to enhance the reliability of emergency calls.

Background and Initial Efforts

The failure of Samsung mobile devices to make emergency triple zero calls has raised concerns for several years. In July 2021, Samsung initiated software updates aimed at rectifying these calling problems by ensuring compatibility with TPG Telecom’s 4G network. This initiative sought to guarantee that, even during network failures, users could reliably make emergency calls.

Samsung's five-year endeavor to resolve triple zero mobile issues

Challenges with Software Updates

In spite of the rollout of these updates, several devices did not obtain the critical patches. Consequently, carriers undertook the significant measure of blocking these unpatched Samsung devices, particularly after incidents linked to fatalities during the Optus network outage.

Technical Obstacles: VoLTE and Network Compatibility

The fundamental technical problem relates to VoLTE (Voice over LTE) capabilities. Although TPG Telecom’s 4G network began offering VoLTE support in 2015, the emergency call functions utilizing this technology were only evaluated and enabled in 2020. This lag resulted in difficulties for some older devices, notably those from Samsung, regarding emergency call routing.

Telecom Industry’s Reaction

Australian telecommunications companies, including Telstra and Optus, have reacted by informing customers of the necessity to update their devices. They have also commenced the creation of a shared database of problematic handsets to bolster the reliability of emergency call services.

Conclusion

Samsung’s continuous efforts to resolve triple zero mobile calling challenges reveal a complex interaction of software updates, network functionalities, and regulatory obstacles. Despite significant advancements, the issue highlights the critical need for thorough testing and prompt updates to ensure consumer safety.

Q&A Section

Q: Why could some Samsung devices not make emergency calls?

A: The problem originated from outdated software that did not support VoLTE emergency calls on TPG Telecom’s 4G network.

Q: What actions did Samsung take to tackle this issue?

A: Samsung issued software updates in 2021 to enable the essential network compatibility for making emergency calls.

Q: Why did carriers choose to block certain Samsung devices?

A: Devices that failed to receive the software update and were tied to emergencies during network outages were blocked to avert further incidents.

Q: How are Australian telcos enhancing emergency call services?

A: Telcos are developing a shared database of problematic devices to guarantee dependable emergency call services across networks.

Q: What is VoLTE and what effect does it have on emergency calls?

A: VoLTE, or Voice over LTE, enables voice calls over a 4G network. It impacts emergency calls by providing quicker and more reliable connections.

Revealing the Dynamo: Bambu Lab H2C 3D Printer Transforms with Instantaneous Hotend Exchange

wpengine on December 3, 2025

Quick Read

Bambu Lab H2C presents groundbreaking instant hotend swapping, minimizing filament waste by up to 95%.
Tailored for the “prosumer” and professional sectors, emphasizing multi-colour and multi-material printing.
Equipped with 59 sensors and AI for improved print precision and failure identification.
Includes a magnetic build plate and a completely enclosed chamber for quieter and more controlled printing.
Accommodates up to 24 distinct materials in a single print with the Automatic Material System (AMS).
Offered in Australia starting from A$3,699.

Bambu Lab H2C: A Transformative Approach to 3D Printing

Bambu Lab is set to change the 3D printing arena with their latest model, the H2C 3D printer. This cutting-edge device is more than just an enhancement; it represents a significant transformation in multi-material printing, tackling the persistent challenge of filament waste.

Unpacking and Build Quality

The Bambu Lab H2C comes in a robust package that reflects the brand’s commitment to excellence and safeguarding. Upon opening, the printer’s industrial aesthetics come to light, featuring a fully enclosed chamber with high-quality glass panels for reduced noise and stable temperature.

Innovative Vortek Hotend Swap System

At the core of the H2C is the Vortek Hotend Change System, a revolutionary feature that allows for hotend swapping in merely 8 seconds. This feature eradicates lengthy colour purging, significantly decreasing waste and print duration.

Enhanced Features and AI Functionality

The H2C comes with 59 sensors and an integrated AI system, utilizing computer vision to identify and correct print issues. Its compatibility with AMS facilitates the utilization of up to 24 materials within a single project, enabling new avenues for intricate designs.

User Interface and Market Targeting

The H2C boasts a large, user-friendly touchscreen interface, granting users extensive control over its functions. Aimed at the “prosumer” and professional audiences, the printer excels in rapid prototyping and small-scale manufacturing.

Conclusion

The Bambu Lab H2C 3D printer establishes a new benchmark in the industry with its cutting-edge features and sturdy design. It effectively addresses major challenges in multi-material printing, providing solutions that conserve time and lessen waste. This powerful device is now available in Australia, representing a notable advancement for both hobbyists and professionals.

Q: What distinguishes the Bambu Lab H2C from other 3D printers?

A: The H2C incorporates the Vortek Hotend Change System, significantly reducing filament waste and print time. It also features advanced sensors and AI for superior print quality.

Q: How does the Vortek Hotend Change System function?

A: It replaces the entire hotend instead of purging filament, enabling rapid transitions between colours or materials, thus reducing waste by up to 95%.

Q: What is the price for the Bambu Lab H2C in Australia?

A: The H2C Combo starts at A$3,699.

Q: Who is the intended audience for the Bambu Lab H2C?

A: The H2C targets “prosumer” and professional users, making it perfect for swift prototyping and small-batch production.

Q: How many materials can the H2C process in one print?

A: Utilizing the AMS, the H2C can handle up to 24 unique materials in a single print.

Q: What kind of AI capabilities does the H2C feature?

A: The H2C employs AI and computer vision to detect printing failures and ensure optimal printing conditions, enhancing reliability and quality.

Asahi Aims for February Rebound in Logistics Following Cyberattack

wpengine on November 30, 2025

The Path to Recovery for Asahi Group After the Cyberattack

Quick Read

Asahi Group plans to reinstate logistics operations by February following a cyberattack.
Data of approximately 1.52 million customers may have been compromised.
Sales in October fell by 10-40% in comparison to the previous year.
Ransomware collective Qilin acknowledged its role in the attack.
Asahi did not make any ransom payment.

Introduction

Asahi Group of Japan, famous for its legendary Super Dry beer, is working towards a recovery of its logistics operations by February after a cyberattack in late September caused substantial disruptions. While the company is hopeful for a return to normalcy, not all products will be ready for shipment by the anticipated date.

Data Breach and Consequences

The cyberattack resulted in a potential leak of personal information for 1.52 million customers. Furthermore, confidential data of 114,000 contacts along with 275,000 current and former employees and their families may have been exposed, although Asahi reports that none of this information has appeared online.

Asahi plans to restore logistics by February following cyberattack

Operational Challenges

The incident caused widespread outages affecting order processing, shipping, and customer service operations, marking Asahi as yet another target in an increasing list of global firms hit by cybercriminals. Earlier in the year, prominent brands such as Jaguar Land Rover and Marks and Spencer suffered from similar operational interruptions.

Financial Setbacks and Projections

Due to the attack, Asahi has postponed the announcement of its full-year earnings, extending it beyond 50 days after the financial year concludes on December 31, 2025. Additionally, the release for third-quarter earnings has been delayed past 45 days following the end of September.

Although expecting adverse effects on financial results, CEO Atsushi Katsuki assured stakeholders that the mid-to-long-term management strategy of the company will remain stable.

Sales Impact and Recovery Initiatives

The interruption led to a shortage of Asahi products across Japanese restaurants, bars, and shops. The company recommenced production at six domestic facilities shortly after the incident. However, sales in October for its primary domestic beverage and food divisions saw a decline of 10% to 40% compared to the prior year.

Ransomware Group and Response

The ransomware group Qilin took responsibility for the attack on October 9. In response to the breach, Asahi’s CEO confirmed that the company did not pay any ransom to the perpetrators.

Conclusion

Asahi Group is on its way to recovery following a significant cyberattack that disrupted its logistics and revealed customer information. Through focused efforts, the company is determined to restore operations by February, ensuring the continuation of its esteemed beverage offerings.