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Why Simply Backing Up Your Microsoft 365 Data Falls Short
Quick Overview
Microsoft 365 has transformed into a vital component of business operations, going beyond its earlier role as a suite of web applications.
The focus of security responsibilities has transitioned from perimeter defense to emphasis on identity and configuration.
A lack of understanding regarding security duties can result in expensive incidents, even in the absence of data loss.
Setting a baseline and observing configuration alterations are essential for preserving security.
Managing privileges is critical to avoid unnecessary access and reduce potential risks.
The Transformation of Microsoft 365
Microsoft 365 has developed from a basic collection of online applications into an essential business resource that merges identity, collaboration, security policy, and workflow. This change has created difficulties for security teams, who must prioritize identity and configuration rather than relying on traditional perimeter-based security frameworks.
Modern Security Responsibilities
As stated by Andrew McAllister, Vice President of APAC Sales at CoreView, numerous organizations have yet to fully comprehend the evolution of security responsibilities. While Microsoft protects the platform, it is the customers who must take charge of their environment’s configuration, access delegation, and governance. Having premium licenses does not exempt them from this obligation.
Implications of Misunderstanding
The dangers of not understanding security responsibilities often surface during emergencies. For example, a financial organization encountered a security breach that necessitated months of reconstructing audit logs, even though no data was lost. This incident underscores the necessity of keeping a clear record of configuration setups.
Creating a Secure Baseline
CoreView recommends establishing a documented baseline, tracking configuration drift, and facilitating change reversion. This practice, similar to server hardening, should be implemented for Microsoft 365 tenants to ensure organizations can swiftly revert to known good states.
The Significance of Privilege Management
The native admin profiles in Microsoft, intended for a wide range of users, frequently grant too much access. This excessive accessibility heightens risk. McAllister stresses the importance of task-specific privilege delegation, permitting administrators access only as necessary, thus improving both security and operational effectiveness.
Conclusion
As Microsoft 365 becomes fundamental to business operations, organizations need to adapt their security strategies. This entails prioritizing configuration management and precise privilege delegation, moving past conventional data backup techniques.
Q&A
Q: Why is merely backing up Microsoft 365 data not sufficient?
A: Although data backup safeguards against data loss, it fails to address issues related to configuration changes, privilege management, or security breaches.
Q: What are the essential responsibilities of customers using Microsoft 365?
A: Customers are tasked with managing configuration settings, access delegation, and governance, as Microsoft solely secures the platform.
Q: How can organizations safeguard against configuration drift in Microsoft 365?
A: It is crucial to establish a documented baseline and continuously monitor for changes to uphold a secure environment.
Q: What does privilege management entail, and why is it significant?
A: Privilege management consists of granting the minimum necessary access to administrators, curtailing risk and bolstering security.
Q: Does premium licensing exempt customers from security responsibilities in Microsoft 365?
A: No, even with premium licensing, customers remain responsible for configuration, access, and governance.
Q: How does task-level privilege delegation enhance security?
A: It restricts administrators to accessing only what is required for their specific role, lowering the risk of excessive access.
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Brief Overview
cPanel has released updates addressing a critical vulnerability related to authentication bypass.
This issue, identified as CVE-2026-41940, carries a severity score of 9.8 on a scale of 10.
Malicious actors can obtain administrative access to systems via CRLF injection.
With 70 million domains utilizing cPanel, this is a widespread concern.
It’s essential for administrators to promptly update their systems with the provided script.
Insight into the cPanel Vulnerability
The recent identification of a severe flaw in cPanel’s software has created significant concern within the hosting industry. The vulnerability, known as CVE-2026-41940, allows attackers to circumvent authentication, potentially giving them administrative control over compromised systems. This issue is linked to a CRLF injection in the login and session mechanisms.
Technical Analysis
The cPanel service daemon, cpsrvd, writes session files to disk prior to completing the authentication process. By altering the whostmgrsession cookie, attackers can generate a session file that evades the password verification, enabling unauthorized access. This flaw impacts both cPanel and WHM users.
An Overview of cPanel and WHM
cPanel is a popular web-based control panel enabling website owners to efficiently manage their hosting accounts. It offers support for email, databases, file management, and domain configurations, and is leveraged by about 70 million domains worldwide. WHM, which stands for WebHost Manager, offers advanced server management functionalities.
Exploitation and Response Measures
Reports suggest that this vulnerability has been actively targeted since late March. The Canadian Centre for Cyber Security and the Australian Cyber Security Centre have both released warnings, advising administrators to implement patches without delay. cPanel has also provided a detection script to assist in identifying compromised systems.
Worldwide Impact and Action
The ShadowServer Foundation has found around 44,000 compromised cPanel instances, including 610 in Australia. The widespread nature of this vulnerability highlights the urgent need for prompt updates and careful system monitoring.
Conclusion
The CVE-2026-41940 vulnerability in cPanel poses a major threat to web hosting providers and system administrators. Given the risk of unauthorized administrative access, taking immediate action is vital. Administrators are encouraged to swiftly update systems and keep an eye out for any indications of breach.
Q: What is the CVE-2026-41940 vulnerability?
A: It is a critical authentication bypass vulnerability affecting cPanel and WHM, enabling attackers to achieve administrative access.
Q: In what way can attackers take advantage of this vulnerability?
A: Attackers exploit CRLF injection to modify session files, allowing them to bypass authentication requirements.
Q: What actions should administrators take to safeguard their systems?
A: Administrators should quickly apply the available patches and utilize the detection script to find any compromised systems.
Q: How prevalent is the use of cPanel?
A: cPanel is employed by around 70 million domains globally, making it a major target for cyber threats.
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Establishing Centres of Excellence in Technology
Brief Overview
The 2026 TechBest Benchmark Awards are generously supported by PhoenixDX.
Pedro Carrilho, Managing Director & Founder at PhoenixDX, elaborates on the idea of Centres of Excellence (CoE).
CoEs are designed to foster innovation, refine processes, and enhance efficiency within organizations.
Primary focal points include technology integration, workforce development, and process enhancement.
CoEs can result in a competitive edge and improved resource allocation.
The Function of Centres of Excellence
Centres of Excellence (CoEs) have emerged as a vital tactic for organizations seeking to boost innovation and operational effectiveness. With the 2026 TechBest Benchmark Awards highlighting this idea, Pedro Carrilho from PhoenixDX shares perspectives on how CoEs operate and their advantages.
Promoting Innovation and Efficiency
CoEs act as centers for expertise and innovation within an organization. They emphasize cultivating best practices, encouraging collaboration, and guaranteeing the effective integration of new technologies into business operations. By centralizing knowledge and resources, CoEs can speed up technology adoption and enhance overall productivity.
Essential Elements of a Centre of Excellence
Technology Integration
A key objective of a CoE is to promote the use of new technologies. This includes assessing emerging technologies and implementing those that align with the organization’s strategic vision.
Workforce Development and Training
CoEs emphasize continuous education for personnel to ensure they can utilize new tools and methodologies effectively. Ongoing training initiatives help sustain a competent workforce capable of driving innovation.
Workflow Enhancement
Improving processes is another vital role of CoEs. By examining and refining existing workflows, CoEs can boost productivity and lower expenses.
Advantages of Establishing a CoE
Organizations that create CoEs often reap numerous advantages, such as enhanced project performance, improved resource management, and fortified competitive positioning. This structured methodology promotes more strategic allocation of resources and better decision-making.
Conclusion
Centres of Excellence are crucial in contemporary organizations by driving innovation, facilitating technology adoption, and refining processes. As emphasized during the TechBest Benchmark Awards, CoEs represent a strategic advantage for any business striving to stay competitive in a fast-changing market landscape.
Q: What constitutes a Centre of Excellence?
A: A Centre of Excellence is a group or unit within an organization dedicated to establishing best practices and fostering innovation through collaboration and expertise.
Q: Why are CoEs significant for organizations?
A: CoEs are significant as they aid in streamlining processes, promoting innovation, and enhancing the uptake of new technologies, thereby giving organizations a competitive advantage.
Q: What are the essential elements of a successful CoE?
A: Essential elements include technology integration, workforce training and development, and workflow enhancement.
Q: In what way does a CoE aid resource management?
A: By centralizing resources and expertise, CoEs enable improved allocation and use of organizational resources, resulting in heightened efficiency and reduced costs.
Q: Are CoEs applicable to sectors beyond technology?
A: Yes, CoEs can be utilized across various sectors as they focus on enhancing processes and innovation, which are universally relevant needs in business.
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Bunnings’ Digital Evolution: A Technological Leader
Quick Overview
Bunnings’ technological skills are often underestimated.
Recent collaborations with Google showcase Bunnings’ digital strength.
Bunnings has unveiled an AI assistant named Buddy to improve customer experience.
Initially, Buddy will be available in Australia and will later expand to New Zealand.
Data and innovation in AI are integral to Bunnings’ expansion strategy.
Image credit: Bunnings
Bunnings’ Technological Evolution
In a recent episode of Boston Consulting Group’s Business & Beyond podcast, Bunnings’ group managing director, Mike Schneider, emphasized the often underestimated status of Bunnings’ technological initiatives. The retailer’s progress in data management and digital systems has established it as a frontrunner in the industry, drawing collaborations with technology leaders like Google.
Collaboration with Google: A Reflection of Digital Abilities
With CIOs Leah Balter and Genevieve Elliott at the helm, Bunnings has reshaped its technological framework. The partnership with Google on the agentic Gemini commerce platform showcases Bunnings’ skills and its transition from a conventional retailer to a tech-oriented business.
Meet Buddy: The AI Assistant
Earlier this month, Bunnings unveiled Buddy, an AI-driven assistant aimed at enhancing customer engagement. Initially launched on the Bunnings website, Buddy guides customers through their projects, addresses complex inquiries, and aids in product choices. The AI can read handwritten lists and swiftly add products to an online shopping cart, simplifying the purchasing process.
Plans for Expansion and Future Prospects
Buddy’s introduction on the Bunnings Australia website and application marks a strategic effort to utilize AI for better customer service. There are plans to roll out Buddy to New Zealand customers later this year. Vivek Pradhan, Bunnings’ general manager of data and AI, discussed this initiative at the Google Cloud Next ‘26 summit, highlighting the retailer’s dedication to innovation.
Conclusion
Bunnings is redefining its position in the retail sector through focused technological initiatives. By adopting AI and data-driven strategies, the enterprise is establishing new benchmarks for customer service and operational performance. With its groundbreaking projects and relationships, Bunnings is set for a future where digital excellence becomes a cornerstone of its identity.
Q: What importance does the partnership with Google hold for Bunnings?
A: This collaboration with Google highlights Bunnings’ advanced digital capabilities and reinforces its position as a leader in embracing innovative technological solutions.
Q: What is Buddy, and in what way does it enhance customer interactions?
A: Buddy is an AI-based assistant that helps customers navigate their shopping, offering project guidance and product selections.
Q: Where can Buddy be accessed currently, and what are the future expansion plans?
A: Buddy is available on the Bunnings Australia website and app, with intentions to launch in New Zealand later this year.
Q: How is Bunnings planning to leverage AI and data for growth?
A: Bunnings intends to deploy AI and data to enhance customer experiences, optimize operations, and bolster long-term growth strategies.
Q: What roles do Leah Balter and Genevieve Elliott play in Bunnings’ technological journey?
A: Leah Balter and Genevieve Elliott have been pivotal as CIOs, propelling the digital transformation and advancing Bunnings’ technological framework.
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Quick Read
Marc Márquez promotes the Insta360 GO 3S Motorcycle Bundle.
In-helmet design delivers immersive rider’s perspective and minimizes wind noise.
Offers 4K video capability and FlowState Stabilization.
Action Pod includes a 2.2-inch flip touchscreen for live previews.
Available in Australia for A$649.99 starting April 28, 2026.
A Champion’s Choice for POV
To infuse real racing heritage into this launch, Insta360 has joined forces with seven-time MotoGP champion Marc Márquez. As a Team Insta360 Ambassador, Márquez appears on the uniquely designed track-themed packaging.
This is more than just marketing; the champion personally utilizes this in-helmet setup to film his riding experiences. The intention is to offer a clean, immersive method to convey the sensation of riding the bike.
Why In-Helmet Beats External Mounts
Installing the camera within the helmet provides numerous benefits over traditional suction cup or adhesive mounts placed externally. Positioned right before the rider’s eyes, the footage seamlessly tracks where the rider is focusing, delivering a far more authentic experience for viewers.
In addition to the visuals, the in-helmet placement greatly diminishes wind noise, which is a consistent adversary for motorcycle vlogs. With the camera protected by the helmet’s visor and shell, the microphones can effectively capture the engine’s raw sounds.
Small Camera with 4K Punch
Weighing in at just 39g, the GO 3S is packed with technology essential for high-speed riding. It supports 4K ultra-clear video, rendering the sharp detail necessary to capture the road’s texture and the rapidly passing scenery.
Stability is maintained by Insta360’s FlowState Stabilization and 360 Horizon Lock. These features collaboratively ensure your footage remains smooth and the horizon straight, even during cornering or traversing bumps.
Smart Tools for the Road
Creativity while riding frequently requires a “set and forget” mentality, and the GO 3S comes with various tools to facilitate that. The Action Pod features a 2.2-inch flip touchscreen, enabling live previews and remote adjustments without needing to remove the camera from the helmet.
The battery life is also remarkable for such a compact device, providing up to 140 minutes of recording time when used with the Action Pod. For those who prefer a more streamlined setup, approximately 38 minutes of recording is available when the camera is operated alone.
AI Editing and Cinematic Effects
For individuals eager to upload their clips to social media swiftly, the app incorporates AI Editing capabilities. The software automatically identifies highlights, syncs them with music, and generates a shareable edit in seconds.
Another exciting feature for riders is Motion ND, which allows you to incorporate cinematic motion blur with just a tap in the app. This adds a sense of speed to your footage without necessitating the use of physical ND filters.
Price and Availability in Australia
The Insta360 GO 3S Motorcycle In-Helmet POV Bundle is an all-inclusive kit for riders aiming to elevate their content creation. It provides a unique viewpoint that was previously challenging to obtain without a custom setup.
The package includes the 128GB version of the Insta360 GO 3S in Black, ensuring ample storage for extended rides. Considering the special edition packaging and dedicated mount, it offers excellent value for motorcycle aficionados.
The Insta360 GO 3S Motorcycle In-Helmet POV Bundle will be available worldwide beginning April 28, 2026. For Australian consumers, the bundle will be priced at A$649.99.
The Insta360 GO 3S Motorcycle In-Helmet POV Bundle presents an innovative option for motorcycle enthusiasts seeking to document their rides from a genuine rider’s perspective. With Marc Márquez’s endorsement, 4K video capabilities, and an array of smart features, this bundle is poised to transform motorcycle filming.
Q: What distinguishes the Insta360 GO 3S camera?
A: Its compact dimensions and in-helmet mounting create an immersive filming experience with 4K resolution and less wind noise.
Q: How does the in-helmet design assist riders?
A: It provides a more authentic POV and enhanced audio quality by minimizing wind noise and aligning with the rider’s line of sight.
Q: What is the battery duration of the Insta360 GO 3S?
A: With the Action Pod, it delivers up to 140 minutes of recording time, and about 38 minutes when used independently.
Q: When will the bundle launch in Australia, and at what cost?
A: It will be released on April 28, 2026, priced at A$649.99.
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Brief Overview
Federal government agencies to acquire separate Microsoft 365 licences starting July.
New framework under VSA6 intends to ensure consistent pricing and limit increases.
Data#3 will help agencies transition to the new licensing structure.
Transition is part of a five-year contract with Microsoft.
Microsoft 365 Licensing Changes for Federal Government
Shift to Individual Agency Registrations
Beginning in July, the federal government will initiate a major shift in the management of Microsoft 365 licences. Through the new Volume Sourcing Agreement (VSA6), each agency will be required to procure enterprise registrations on an individual basis, deviating from the former pooled licensing approach.
Previous Licensing Structure
In earlier agreements, the government utilized a pooled system where all agencies functioned as a single customer. This approach provided flexibility as increases in licence consumption by some agencies could be offset by reductions in others.
Revised Licensing Setup
The VSA6 introduces a modification that mandates agencies to directly request the number of licences they require from Data#3, the selected Microsoft licensing partner for the government. This transition necessitates that agencies adjust both administratively and technically to a new system based on reservations.
Assistance for Transition
The government has set aside $8.25 million for a “QSFS mobilisation service” to support agencies throughout this transition. Data#3 will offer essential assistance to guarantee a seamless transition to the new licensing model.
Commercial Results and Price Consistency
Even with these transitions, the Digital Transformation Agency (DTA) guarantees that VSA6 will preserve overall government pricing advantages. The agreement offers stable pricing with limited increases, aiming to protect the Australian Public Service from fluctuations in the global market.
Conclusion
The federal government’s transition from a pooled Microsoft 365 licensing model to independent agency registrations under VSA6 signifies a considerable change in both administrative and technical procedures. Although agencies now need to handle their own licences, the DTA ensures sustained commercial advantages, including stable pricing and protection from worldwide price fluctuations.
Q: What is VSA6?
A: VSA6 is the sixth Volume Sourcing Agreement established between the federal government and Microsoft, governing the acquisition of Microsoft 365 licences over a five-year period.
Q: How does the new licensing framework impact agencies?
A: Agencies are now required to independently reserve and manage their Microsoft 365 licences rather than depending on a communal pool, necessitating adjustments to administrative and technical processes.
Q: Who is Data#3?
A: Data#3 is the designated Microsoft licensing solution provider for the government, tasked with facilitating the transition to the revised licensing model.
Q: What are the financial effects of VSA6?
A: VSA6 aims to provide consistent pricing and limited increases throughout its duration, reducing the influence of global price variations on the Australian Public Service.
Q: How will the government assist agencies during this transition?
A: The government has initiated an $8.25 million fund to aid agencies in transitioning to the new reservations-based licensing system through Data#3.
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