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Queensland Child Safety Engages Deloitte to Assess Crucial IT System

wpengine on October 3, 2025

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Audit of Queensland’s Child Safety System by Deloitte

Brief Overview

Queensland has engaged Deloitte Australia to conduct an audit of its Unify client management system.
This audit follows serious failures that threaten the safety of at-risk children.
A separate audit by Queensland Audit Office focuses on deployment and implementation processes.
The Unify system is struggling with access to staff information and data sharing capabilities.
Reports indicate issues with the system’s navigation and overall design.
Unify oversees data for about 15,500 children.
The system’s development cost is around $183 million; initially revealed in 2019.

The Audit Effort

Qld Child Safety engages Deloitte to evaluate essential IT system The Department of Child Safety in Queensland has launched an audit of its Unify client management system, engaging Deloitte Australia to address critical shortcomings. These issues have significantly impacted the safety of at-risk children, stemming from problems with data access and information sharing.

System Issues and Government Action

The Unify system, vital for overseeing child safety and youth justice matters, has been plagued by substantial challenges since its introduction. Staff members have reported difficulty in accessing information and sharing it with collaborating agencies. A notable issue was the loss of data related to court orders, underscoring flaws in the system’s design and navigation.

Further Oversight by Queensland Audit Office

Alongside Deloitte’s role, the Queensland Audit Office will perform a distinct review concentrating on Unify’s deployment and execution. This combined effort is intended to comprehensively confront the system’s deficiencies and improve its performance.

Enhancing System Support and Efficiency

To tackle ongoing challenges, the Department of Child Safety has appointed a team of nine child safety personnel statewide to extend support. The department highlights that fixing Unify’s problems is a primary focus to guarantee effective management of child safety initiatives.

Unify System: Overview and Costs

Unify, which was introduced in phases, has replaced the outdated Child Safety and Youth Justice ICT infrastructure. It was crafted to enhance case and client management for vulnerable children and their families. The overall investment amounts to $183 million, including an initial commitment of $51.1 million made in 2019, following an audit that revealed integration issues with its predecessor.

Conclusion

In light of significant failures within the Unify system, Queensland’s Department of Child Safety has enlisted Deloitte Australia for an inclusive audit. This initiative, along with a separate assessment from the Queensland Audit Office, aims to resolve the issues impacting the safety and management of approximately 15,500 children in the state. Addressing these difficulties is essential for the effective and secure operation of child safety activities.

Q: What led to the Unify system’s audit?

A: The audit was prompted by severe failures in the Unify system that introduced risks for vulnerable children, particularly regarding data access and sharing capabilities.

Q: Who is responsible for the audits?

A: The main audit is being carried out by Deloitte Australia, while a distinct review will be conducted by the Queensland Audit Office focusing on deployment and implementation.

Q: What challenges have been identified with the Unify system?

A: Identified issues involve staff difficulties in accessing information, data sharing with partner organizations, and flaws in system navigation and design.

Q: How is the government responding to these issues?

A: The government has assembled a team of child safety staff to assist in addressing Unify’s problems, emphasizing that resolving these issues is of utmost priority.

Q: What are the financial implications of the Unify system?

A: The total expenditure for the Unify system is estimated at about $183 million, with an initial investment of $51.1 million announced in 2019.

Q: What is the aim of the Unify system?

A: The purpose of Unify is to succeed the outdated Child Safety and Youth Justice ICT system and to provide modern case and client management for vulnerable children and families.

GitHub Enhances npm Security After Shai-Hulud Worm Event

wpengine on September 29, 2025

GitHub Strengthens npm Security After Shai-Hulud Worm Incident

Overview

GitHub is boosting npm security in response to recent breaches.
Mandatory two-factor authentication (2FA) is now required for local publishing.
Granular tokens enhance control over package accessibility.
A new Trusted Publishing method will replace API tokens.
Transition from TOTP to FIDO 2FA for improved security.
Changes will be rolled out gradually, with full support for developers.

GitHub’s Action Against npm Security Risks

Following the Shai-Hulud worm incident, GitHub has unveiled a comprehensive set of security enhancements aimed at protecting the npm ecosystem. This initiative arises in response to increasing worries regarding supply chain attacks on open-source repositories.

GitHub boosts npm security following Shai-Hulud worm incident

Launch of Two-Factor Authentication and Granular Tokens

A notable aspect of these measures is the enforcement of mandatory two-factor authentication (2FA) for local publishing. Moreover, GitHub is introducing granular tokens, enabling developers to accurately manage package and scope access. These tokens can be allocated to specific organizations, have expiration configurations, and be associated with particular IP address ranges.

Embracing Trusted Publishing and Advanced Authentication

GitHub is also adopting the Trusted Publishing authentication method, inspired by practices from the Python Software Foundation. This method will substitute API tokens in build pipelines and adheres to the OpenID Connect Standard. Developers can now utilize the WebAuthn API for authentication, providing a more secure alternative to TOTP codes.

Shift to FIDO 2FA and Future Directions

Classic legacy tokens and TOTP for 2FA are being gradually discontinued in favor of Fast Identity Online (FIDO) 2FA, which promises superior security. While GitHub has not detailed an exact timeline for these changes, they are committed to offering comprehensive documentation and support to ensure developers have a smooth transition.

Conclusion

GitHub’s proactive measures to enhance npm security reflect its dedication to preserving the integrity of the open-source environment. The rollout of 2FA, granular tokens, and alternative authentication methods aims to significantly reduce the risk of supply chain vulnerabilities. Developers are encouraged to remain informed and adjust to these changes to maintain the security of their projects.

Q: What led GitHub to strengthen npm security?

A: The recent Shai-Hulud worm incident and other supply chain threats exposed vulnerabilities in npm packages, prompting GitHub to take action.

Q: Why is two-factor authentication critical for npm?

A: The implementation of mandatory 2FA provides an additional security layer, minimizing the chances of unauthorized access to npm packages.

Q: In what way do granular tokens enhance security?

A: Granular tokens grant developers precise authority over package accessibility, allowing for limitations based on organizations, IP addresses, among others.

Q: What is Trusted Publishing, and why is it essential?

A: Trusted Publishing substitutes API tokens with a more secure authentication method, lowering the risk of token theft in build processes.

Q: Why is GitHub retiring TOTP for 2FA?

A: TOTP codes are susceptible to man-in-the-middle attacks, prompting GitHub’s shift to the more secure FIDO 2FA.

Q: Will developers receive assistance during these adjustments?

A: Indeed, GitHub intends to offer documentation, migration assistance, and support channels to aid developers throughout the transition process.

Hidden “BRICKSTORM” Backdoor Uncovered in Network Framework

wpengine on September 26, 2025

Stealthy “BRICKSTORM” Backdoor Imperils Network Infrastructure

Quick Read

BRICKSTORM is a surveillance malware linked to the China-associated UNC5221 APT.
Developed in Go, it averages a dwell time of 393 days.
Targets network devices such as firewalls and virtualization platforms.
Utilizes obfuscation and unique C2 domains for stealth.
Aimed at data exfiltration and geopolitical surveillance.
Possible connections to Silk Typhoon or Hafnium APT factions.
Mandiant provides a BRICKSTORM detection utility on GitHub.

Stealthy, enduring "BRICKSTORM" espionage backdoor discovered in network infrastructure

The BRICKSTORM Threat Landscape

Google’s Threat Intelligence Group (GTIG) and Mandiant have provided insights into a complex backdoor surveillance malware named BRICKSTORM. Associated with the Chinese UNC5221 advanced persistent threat (APT), this malware has been operational since March, demonstrating an impressive capability to remain undetected for an average of 393 days in compromised networks.

Focus on Network Infrastructure

BRICKSTORM specifically targets network devices like firewalls, virtual private network (VPN) concentrators, and virtualization platforms such as VMware vCenter. These intrusions are designed to secure long-term, covert access, installing backdoors on devices that typically lack endpoint detection and response (EDR) capabilities.

Stealth and Obfuscation Techniques

This malware employs obfuscation methods, uses disposable command and control (C2) domains, and integrates fluidly with device workflows, thus complicating detection efforts. Such tactics enable it to avoid typical security defenses.

Espionage and Data Exfiltration

BRICKSTORM emphasizes data exfiltration, utilizing the SOCKS network protocol to bypass firewalls and security measures. It also engages in geopolitical surveillance and theft of intellectual property, aiding in the development of exploits. Among the sensitive information collected are admin mailboxes from compromised systems.

Relation to Other APT Groups

While BRICKSTORM’s operations suggest links to known factions like Silk Typhoon or Hafnium, Google-Mandiant proposes that it may represent a separate APT due to its specific targeting strategies.

Efforts in Detection

Mandiant has taken significant steps to facilitate detection by releasing a BRICKSTORM scanning Bash script on GitHub, suitable for Linux and BSD-based systems, offering an invaluable resource for cybersecurity experts.

Conclusion

The identification of the BRICKSTORM backdoor underlines the changing threat landscape in cyber espionage aimed at network infrastructure. With its extended persistence and intricate stealth strategies, it presents a considerable challenge for detection and countermeasures.

Q: What is BRICKSTORM?

A: BRICKSTORM is a surveillance malware associated with the China-linked UNC5221 APT, recognized for its prolonged persistence in networks and stealth methods.

Q: Why is BRICKSTORM challenging to detect?

A: It uses obfuscation, disposable C2 domains, and seamlessly integrates with device workflows to evade detection.

Q: What are the main targets of BRICKSTORM?

A: It targets network appliances like firewalls and virtualization platforms, as well as sectors such as legal services, BPOs, and SaaS providers.

Q: How can organizations defend against BRICKSTORM?

A: By utilizing advanced detection tools such as the BRICKSTORM scanning script from Mandiant and enhancing network security protocols.

Q: Is BRICKSTORM connected to any other APT groups?

A: It may be associated with groups like Silk Typhoon or Hafnium, but it also shows distinctive targeting patterns indicating a separate APT.

Q: What is the primary goal of BRICKSTORM?

A: The primary goal is data exfiltration, along with geopolitical espionage and theft of intellectual property.

Nvidia and OpenAI Launch Bold 10GW Collaboration to Advance the Future of AI

wpengine on September 24, 2025

Nvidia and OpenAI's pioneering 10GW AI alliance

Brief Overview

Nvidia and OpenAI unveil a 10GW partnership to boost AI advancement.
This collaboration merges Nvidia’s hardware with OpenAI’s software, yielding a robust alliance.
OpenAI obtains prioritized access to Nvidia’s premium GPUs, obtaining a strategic advantage.
Opportunity for groundbreaking AI models in sectors such as robotics, healthcare, and environmental science.
The 10GW power expansion prompts discussions about sustainable energy alternatives.

Strategic Association Between Nvidia and OpenAI

Nvidia and OpenAI have entered a transformative partnership poised to revolutionize artificial intelligence. By utilizing 10GW of Nvidia systems, this collaboration signifies a fresh chapter in AI development, setting a standard for competitors and accelerating the production of upcoming AI models.

Economic Factors

This partnership is a thoroughly integrated, long-term commitment with OpenAI investing significantly in Nvidia’s existing and upcoming chips. In return, Nvidia will infuse OpenAI’s enterprise solutions, such as ChatGPT, into its operations. This collaboration guarantees a perpetual improvement cycle, augmenting the capabilities of both parties.

Dominance in AI and Rivalry

The agreement guarantees OpenAI’s prime access to Nvidia’s GPUs during a time of limited availability, presenting a notable competitive edge. With competitors like Elon Musk’s xAI chasing similar resources, this arrangement positions OpenAI at the leading edge of AI advancement.

Exploring New Opportunities

By harnessing Nvidia’s cutting-edge computing capabilities, OpenAI plans to create intricate models skilled in multi-modal interactions. This could transform domains such as autonomous robotics and scientific advancements in healthcare and environmental science.

Driving the Future: The Energy Dilemma

The 10GW expansion entails substantial energy needs, akin to Victoria’s maximum electricity consumption. Accommodating this demand sustainably is essential, potentially involving fresh renewable energy projects or even nuclear power solutions to facilitate ongoing AI activities.

Conclusion

The partnership between Nvidia and OpenAI represents a significant milestone in AI progression, merging pioneering hardware and software to expand boundaries and foster innovation across various sectors. While it brings considerable energy challenges, the collaboration establishes a new benchmark for AI infrastructure and capacity.

Q: What is the main objective of the Nvidia and OpenAI partnership?

A: The main objective is to improve AI capabilities by implementing 10GW of Nvidia systems, facilitating the development of sophisticated AI models and securing a competitive advantage within the sector.

Q: In what ways does this partnership benefit OpenAI?

A: OpenAI secures priority access to Nvidia’s advanced GPUs, empowering it to extend the limits of AI research and create more advanced models.

Q: What are the energy demands for this deployment?

A: The 10GW deployment necessitates a considerable energy provision, comparable to the peak electricity demand of Victoria, requiring innovative energy strategies.

Q: How could this partnership influence AI research and applications?

A: This collaboration could result in breakthroughs in multi-modal AI systems, affecting fields such as robotics, healthcare, and environmental science by enabling more intricate and capable AI models.

Q: What possible solutions exist for the energy challenge?

A: Possible solutions encompass renewable energy initiatives through Power Purchase Agreements or investigating nuclear power options to secure a reliable energy supply.

ACMA Proposes Digital ID for Verification of Prepaid SIM in New Initiative

wpengine on September 23, 2025

Quick Read

Australian telecommunications companies might soon implement Digital ID for verifying prepaid SIM cards.
The ACMA’s initiative seeks to minimize SIM-related fraud and prevent data breaches.
Introduced nearly a year ago, the Digital ID Act encourages the use of digital credentials.
The government has allocated $288.1 million for the rollout of Digital ID by 2026.
The proposal’s consultation phase concludes on October 25.

Digital ID: The Next Step in Prepaid SIM Verification for Australia

ACMA suggests digital ID for prepaid SIM verification in Australia

Introduction

In a development that may transform the customer onboarding process for prepaid mobile services, the Australian Communications Media Authority (ACMA) has put forth a proposal to enable telecommunications companies to authenticate customers through Digital ID. If adopted, this plan would connect digital wallets to verified identification such as driver’s licenses or Medicare cards for SIM activation, with the aim of curtailing fraud and simplifying the verification process.

Background: Digital ID Act and Its Implications

Almost a year post the introduction of the Digital ID Act, this proposal signifies a notable advancement towards wider acceptance of digital credentials. The Digital ID framework is aimed at addressing risks linked to data breaches, a crucial concern underscored by recent events involving major firms like Optus and Medibank.

Government Support and Financial Commitment

The Australian government has committed $288.1 million over a four-year period, as detailed in the Budget 2024-25, to facilitate the rollout of Digital ID throughout both the public and private sectors by December 2026. This financial investment emphasizes the significance attributed to digital identity as a fundamental aspect of contemporary verification procedures.

Current Verification Process for Prepaid SIMs

Since 2017, it has been a requirement for Australian telecommunications companies to confirm customer identities prior to activating prepaid mobile services. At present, this process involves a document verification system (DVS) to authenticate government-issued identification either in person or online.

ACMA’s Proposal and Consultation Period

The ACMA’s proposal is designed to ease the incorporation of Digital ID into the prevailing verification process without imposing extra compliance barriers. All stakeholders and the public are invited to share their opinions on this proposal until October 25.

Summary

The ACMA’s initiative to incorporate Digital ID into the verification of prepaid SIM cards represents a progressive step towards bolstering security and efficiency in the onboarding process for mobile services. With backing from the government and a specified implementation timeline, the shift towards digital identities is set to become a reality for Australian telecommunications providers, potentially establishing a model for other industries.

Q&A

Q: What is the goal of utilizing Digital ID for prepaid SIM verification?

A: The aim is to diminish SIM-related fraud and lessen dependence on physical document checks by associating SIM activation with verified digital credentials.

Q: What influence does the Digital ID Act have on this proposal?

A: The Digital ID Act promotes wider usage of digital credentials, offering a legal foundation for the application of Digital ID across various fields, including telecommunications.

Q: What financial backing has the government provided for the Digital ID rollout?

A: The government has allocated $288.1 million over four years to aid the introduction of Digital ID, aiming for comprehensive implementation in both public and private sectors by December 2026.

Q: How are prepaid SIMs currently verified?

A: Prepaid SIMs are presently verified through a document verification system (DVS) that authenticates government-issued IDs, conducted either in-person or online.

Q: When does the consultation phase for ACMA’s proposal conclude?

A: The consultation phase for ACMA’s proposal concludes on October 25.

CBA Introduces Lumos: Advanced AI Accelerator for Optimizing Cloud Application Preparation

wpengine on September 23, 2025

CBA’s Lumos AI Accelerator

Brief Overview

CBA unveils Lumos, an AI-driven process for cloud application transition.
Lumos is set to move 20-30 applications each quarter.
AI agents facilitate the transition, minimizing time and resources needed.
Partnership with AWS ProServe to improve migration framework.
Targeting modernization of 370 outdated applications.

Transforming Cloud Migration with AI

CBA has introduced a multi-agent system known as ‘Lumos’ to optimize the readiness and migration of applications to the cloud. This AI-centric strategy seeks to convert the challenging endeavor of cloud migration into a more feasible undertaking, enabling the bank to transfer 20-30 applications each quarter.

CBA unveils Lumos AI accelerator for cloud application transition

CBA’s Ash Moollan.

Engineering-Focused Migration Strategy

General Manager of Cloud Acceleration Ash Moollan provided insights at an AWS financial services symposium, emphasizing the engineering-focused strategy that redefines application migration with AI and agent technology. This partnership with AWS’s ProServe intends to tailor the AWS migration framework to better suit CBA’s needs, allowing for increased migration capacities.

AI Agents Central to Lumos

Lumos utilizes AI agents to manage various phases of the migration workflow, from gathering requirements to code adaptation and UI testing. Agents summarize discussions, evaluate codebases, and create cybersecurity documentation, guaranteeing accuracy and efficiency in the workflow. A human oversight mechanism ensures quality assurance and additional refinement.

Addressing Obstacles and Streamlining Workflows

CBA encountered multiple challenges, such as disorganized documentation and protracted cloud readiness assessments. Lumos confronts these issues by implementing AI-driven solutions that streamline operations. Moollan also alluded to ongoing enhancements, including a shift from Pydantic to Amazon Bedrock’s AgentCore for improved orchestration and management of extensive legacy codebases.

Conclusion

CBA’s Lumos signifies a major advancement in cloud application migration, utilizing cutting-edge AI technology to simplify and expedite the process. Through collaboration with AWS and a commitment to ongoing enhancements, CBA aims to modernize its legacy applications in an effective and efficient manner.

Q: What is Lumos?

A: Lumos is a multi-agent AI workflow created by CBA to optimize the application migration process to the cloud.

Q: How many applications does CBA intend to migrate with Lumos?

A: CBA seeks to migrate 20-30 applications every quarter using Lumos.

Q: What function do AI agents serve in Lumos?

A: AI agents oversee various stages of the migration process, such as requirements gathering, code evaluation, and documentation creation, with human supervision for quality assurance.

Q: In what ways is CBA refining the Lumos workflow?

A: Refinements include switching to Amazon Bedrock’s AgentCore for enhanced orchestration and boosting Lumos’s capability to manage large legacy codebases.

Neuron provides A$100,000 in complimentary rides for Helmet Safety Awareness Week

wpengine on September 22, 2025

Neuron Mobility announces A$100,000 in complimentary rides to advocate for helmet safety.
Helmet Safety Awareness Week takes place from 22nd to 28th September.
Participants can commit, don helmets, and earn incentives.
Safety Ambassadors will be available to assist and reward riders.
Failure to adhere to helmet regulations results in fines across Australian territories.

Helmet Safety Awareness Week: Advancing Towards Safer Streets

Escooter provider Neuron Mobility is leading its fifth annual Helmet Safety Awareness Week, presenting A$100,000 in complimentary rides and rewards. This effort, occurring from 22nd to 28th September, seeks to highlight the significance of helmet usage and safer riding habits.

How to Claim the Rewards

Pledge for Free Passes

Riders can use the promo code HELMETPLEDGE to obtain a free Plus Pass, which provides complimentary e-scooter starts and a 20% discount on all rides for 30 days.

Earn Incentives

By taking an in-app selfie while wearing a helmet, riders can receive up to 50 cents off future rides.

Be Spotted

Neuron’s Safety Ambassadors will be patrolling prominent areas, ready to provide rewards and safety advice to riders.

Win Great Prizes

Participants can enter a competition to win a A$500 voucher for dining or a city escape by engaging with the safety initiatives.

The Significance of Helmets

Helmets are essential for e-scooter safety, greatly decreasing the likelihood of severe injury. In Australia, wearing a helmet is mandated by law, with fines for non-compliance differing by state: Victoria (A$395), New South Wales (A$423), Queensland (A$166), South Australia (A$125), and Western Australia (A$50).

Neuron’s Dedication to Safety

Each Neuron scooter is furnished with a helmet, accessible via their app. Safety Ambassadors will promote helmet usage and endorse the ScootSafe Academy, which provides educational materials along with incentives.

“It’s wonderful to commemorate our fifth year of Helmet Safety Awareness Week. Over 99.99 per cent of all Neuron trips conclude safely and without issues. Yet, in the rare case of a serious accident, helmets remain the most effective means for riders to safeguard themselves, which is why we’re rewarding all those who make the pledge this year.” Jayden Bryant, General Manager, Australia and New Zealand, Neuron Mobility.

For further details, visit https://www.rideneuron.com/

Overview

Neuron Mobility’s Helmet Safety Awareness Week is a crucial initiative that fosters safer e-scooter practices by promoting helmet use through a suite of engaging incentives and rewards. With legal mandates and possible fines established, the campaign aspires to boost awareness and compliance with safety protocols among riders.

Q&A Session

Q: What is the primary objective of Helmet Safety Awareness Week?

A: The main objective is to encourage helmet use among e-scooter riders, ensuring safer roads and minimizing injury risks.

Q: How can riders get involved in the initiative?

A: Riders can join by pledging to wear helmets, utilizing the promo code HELMETPLEDGE, and participating in Neuron’s safety programs.

Q: Are there repercussions for not wearing a helmet?

A: Yes, fines differ across Australian regions, with penalties ranging from A$50 to A$423 for non-compliance.

Q: How are Neuron scooters designed for helmet safety?

A: Neuron scooters come equipped with built-in helmets that can be unlocked through their app, ensuring easy availability for riders.

Q: What functions do Safety Ambassadors serve during the week?

A: Safety Ambassadors monitor key areas, providing guidance, rewards, and promoting safe riding habits.

Gaming Evolution: Microsoft Gaming Copilot Delivers Instant Support

wpengine on September 21, 2025

Quick Read

Microsoft introduces Gaming Copilot, an AI assistant aimed at Windows PC gamers.
Provides real-time advice and customized suggestions to improve gameplay experiences.
Voice-enabled functionality allows players to stay engaged without distractions.
Available at no cost for users aged 18 and over, utilizing Xbox account information for personalized guidance.
Works flawlessly with the Xbox PC app, with mobile compatibility on the horizon.
Plans for future rollout to Xbox consoles and new handheld gaming devices.

Voice Mode

Engage with Gaming Copilot using natural voice prompts, ideal for critical moments when typing is impractical. On PC, press the “Push to Talk” option for immediate questions or switch to “Mini Mode” for subtle conversations that don’t obstruct your view. Mobile users will gain microphone capabilities in the Xbox app starting in October, ensuring uninterrupted support.

In-Game Assistance

Having difficulty with a challenging quest or need insights on enemies? Gaming Copilot analyzes your gameplay to offer tips on NPC storylines, the best character builds, or tactics without giving away spoilers. It also monitors your achievements, guiding you toward completion and transforming potential hurdles into gratifying victories. This feature excels in fast-paced games where every moment counts.

Recommendations and History

Based on your gaming history and favorite genres, the AI recommends new titles to keep your collection lively. It tracks session information for seamless recaps, allowing you to continue across devices without any hiccups. The more you engage, the more refined its recommendations become, crafting a uniquely tailored experience.

Microsoft intends to launch Gaming Copilot for Xbox consoles and new handheld devices including the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X on October 16. The beta version is currently accessible on PC via the Game Bar (Windows key + G), with mobile support rolling out for iOS and Android next month. Available worldwide (excluding mainland China), it is set to evolve based on user feedback, enhancing its intelligence and usability.

This goes beyond just being a chatbot—it revolutionizes our interaction with beloved games. Initial users are raving about the time saved, and with no charge to test it, there’s every reason to engage. As the technology progresses, anticipate Gaming Copilot to manage intricate requests like multiplayer coordination or detailed story explorations with ease.

For further details, visit Xbox Support – https://support.xbox.com/en-us/help/games-apps/xbox-ai/gaming-copilot-faq

Summary

Microsoft’s Gaming Copilot aims to reshape the gaming experience by delivering instantaneous assistance and personalized suggestions, fully integrated into the Xbox environment. With voice-activated capabilities and plans for future expansion, it is set to enhance engagement and efficiency in gaming.

Q: What is Gaming Copilot?

A: Gaming Copilot is an AI-driven assistant from Microsoft that offers real-time support and personalized recommendations to elevate the gaming experience for Windows PC players.

Q: How does the voice mode work?

A: Voice mode enables players to utilize natural speech commands to interact with Gaming Copilot, simplifying the process of receiving help without needing to type. On PC, players can activate the “Push to Talk” feature or choose “Mini Mode” for unobtrusive communication.

Q: What type of in-game assistance does it provide?

A: Gaming Copilot provides tips on NPC narratives, ideal builds, strategies, and tracks achievements to assist players in overcoming challenges and progressing smoothly through their games.

Q: Is Gaming Copilot available on mobile?

A: Mobile functionality for Gaming Copilot is set to launch in October, granting microphone access through the Xbox app for both iOS and Android users.

Q: Will it be available on Xbox consoles?

A: Yes, Microsoft aims to extend Gaming Copilot to Xbox consoles and upcoming handheld devices such as the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X starting October 16.

Q: Is there a cost to use Gaming Copilot?

A: Gaming Copilot is complimentary for users aged 18 and older, requiring merely the latest Xbox PC app for access.

Optus Triple Zero Disruption “Improbable” Factor in Infant’s Heartbreaking Demise

wpengine on September 21, 2025

Optus Triple Zero Disruption: Devastating Consequences and Ongoing Probes

Quick Overview

An Optus network malfunction is unlikely linked to the death of an infant in South Australia.
The family was impacted by the disruption, yet they managed to successfully call 000 using a different phone.
The State Coroner will carry out a comprehensive inquiry to ascertain if an inquest is warranted.
Another death associated with the outage is still being investigated in depth.
The disruption occurred due to a firewall upgrade, which halted Triple Zero for 13 hours.

Impact of Optus Disruption on Emergency Services

An Optus network disruption that rendered Triple Zero calls unavailable for approximately 13 hours has raised serious concerns nationwide. Initial inquiries by SA Police indicate that this incident is unlikely to have played a direct role in the heartbreaking death of an eight-week-old infant in South Australia. The child’s grandmother, upon realizing her grandson was not breathing, initially struggled to connect to 000. However, she successfully dialed using another mobile phone available in the home.

Impact of Optus network failure on emergency services

Investigation by the State Coroner

Although the initial call attempt did not succeed, investigations suggest that the child’s death was not a result of any delay by the SA Ambulance Service. The inquiry has been referred to the State Coroner, who will determine if an inquest is necessary. This accountability is vital considering public interest and the possible ramifications for emergency service practices.

Current Investigations of Related Deaths

The ramifications of the Optus disruption extend beyond this singular incident. Another fatality in the state is being examined, with investigators looking into how the interruption of the 000 service may have influenced the situation. This case is deemed more intricate and remains under the spotlight for law enforcement and emergency responders.

Technical Reasons Behind the Outage

The disruption, which temporarily ceased the Triple Zero emergency service, stemmed from a firewall upgrade executed by Optus. This technical error left Australians without emergency service access for a crucial 13-hour interval, raising major concerns about the stability of telecommunications systems.

Conclusion

The Optus network disruption has exposed weaknesses in accessing emergency services during technical failures. While preliminary investigations indicate the outage did not directly contribute to the death of a baby in South Australia, the effects of such interruptions remain under examination. The ongoing inquiries are critical for enhancing future emergency service dependability nationwide.

Q: What triggered the Optus Triple Zero disruption?

A: The disruption was initiated by a firewall upgrade that unintentionally rendered the Triple Zero emergency calling service inoperative for approximately 13 hours.

Q: Did the Optus disruption cause the infant’s death in South Australia?

A: Initial investigations by SA Police suggest it is improbable that the disruption had a direct impact on the child’s death, as another phone was successfully used to make a 000 call.

Q: What is the State Coroner’s involvement in this matter?

A: The State Coroner will perform a thorough investigation to establish if an inquest is required to further explore the circumstances surrounding the child’s death.

Q: Are there additional cases connected to the Optus disruption?

A: Yes, another fatality in South Australia is currently under investigation to understand the outage’s effect, and it is regarded as more complex than the previous case.

Q: How has the public responded to the Optus outage?

A: The disruption has incited considerable public concern and examination of telecommunications providers’ capability to ensure uninterrupted access to emergency services.

Q: What steps are being taken to avert future outages?

A: It is anticipated that both investigations and public pressure will lead to improved protocols and technological safeguards to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

NSW RegStar Program Revamp as DCS Exits Significant Workstream

wpengine on September 15, 2025

NSW RegStar Initiative Undergoes Major Overhaul

NSW RegStar Initiative Faces Restructuring with DCS Exit

Brief Overview:

The Department of Customer Service (DCS) has exited the RegStar initiative.
Transport for NSW will henceforth lead the project, with a budget of $53.5 million allocated.
The emphasis is now on planning and development instead of immediate system deployment.
Insights gained from the unsuccessful LDL initiative will guide future actions.
The DRIVES system, operational since 1991, is regarded as obsolete and requires replacement.

RegStar Initiative Background

NSW’s RegStar Initiative was created to modernise the state’s licensing and registration processes. A primary element was the upgrade of the 33-year-old Driver Vehicle System (DRIVES), which oversees millions of driver licenses and vehicle registrations. Initially, the DCS played a significant role in shifting Learner Driver Licences (LDL) to a new platform, Licence NSW.

Obstacles and Choices

Last month, the DCS declared its withdrawal from the LDL initiative due to “delivery obstacles” and “revised timelines.” This conclusion was drawn after a mid-delivery assessment revealed that the proof-of-concept phase was unready for execution. Despite the end of the project, important lessons were learned that will inform future ventures.

Financial and Tactical Adjustments

The NSW government has redirected $53.5 million in the latest state budget to concentrate on the preliminary stages of the RegStar initiative. This funding is designated to facilitate thorough project planning, development, and updates to the business case rather than immediate system enhancements.

DRIVES System: A Historical Summary

Launched in 1991, the DRIVES system is regarded as antiquated and economically burdensome to maintain. An audit deemed it “end-of-life” and criticized the absence of a solid business case for its replacement. Previous attempts, including a $55 million funding initiative in 2021, have yet to produce a definitive plan.

Future Outlook

The NSW government is committed to revamping the DRIVES platform. While the RegStar initiative is set for a reset, its ultimate ambition remains to create a new system that meets both current and upcoming needs. The insights from the unsuccessful LDL initiative will be crucial in guiding this forward direction.

Conclusion

The RegStar initiative seeks to modernise the licensing frameworks in NSW, but recent hurdles have prompted a strategic shift. The DCS’s exit from a vital workstream signifies a major change in the project’s trajectory. While challenges persist, the NSW government is dedicated to establishing the foundation for a successful transformation.

Q&A

Q: Why did the DCS exit the RegStar initiative?

A: The DCS exited due to delivery obstacles and updated timelines impacting the feasibility of the LDL initiative.

Q: What is the current situation of the RegStar initiative?

A: The initiative is still active but has redirected its focus toward planning and development, backed by $53.5 million in new funding.

Q: How old is the DRIVES system, and what necessitates its replacement?

A: The DRIVES system is 33 years old and is considered end-of-life due to outdated technology and substantial maintenance expenses.

Q: What insights were derived from the LDL initiative?

A: The LDL initiative offered critical insights into cross-sector collaboration and joint delivery, which will be pivotal for upcoming program efforts.