Blog - Page 17 of 171 - Techbest - Top Tech Reviews In Australia

MIPOW x Miffy BT5.3 Wireless Earbuds Review


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Researchers Create AI-Powered “PromptLock” Ransomware


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Quick Read

  • “PromptLock” ransomware is an academic model, not an actual danger.
  • Created by NYU Tandon researchers to investigate AI-driven ransomware functions.
  • Model can independently carry out entire ransomware operations.
  • AI systems generate distinctive attack codes, posing challenges to conventional security frameworks.
  • Study conducted ethically to underscore emerging risks from AI.

AI-Driven Ransomware: Academic Investigation Reveals Possible Threats

Academic researchers created AI-driven ransomware prototype

The “PromptLock” ransomware, revealed by cybersecurity firm ESET, is not a malicious tool but an academic research prototype created by the New York University Tandon School of Engineering. Initially thought to be a genuine threat, the prototype functions as a proof-of-concept to investigate AI-driven ransomware abilities.

Analyzing the Prototype

The NYU Tandon research group’s investigation, called “Ransomware 3.0,” illustrates how extensive language models can independently perform ransomware campaigns across various platforms, such as personal computers, enterprise servers, and industrial control systems. The study simulates all stages of an attack, ranging from system mapping to generating ransom notes, employing AI to formulate tailored attack scripts for each target.

Technical Overview

The prototype utilizes AI models to create distinctive attack codes, complicating detection by traditional security systems. Tests indicated that AI could detect 63 to 96 percent of sensitive files, varying by the environment. These scripts, functional across platforms including Windows, Linux, and Raspberry Pi, demonstrate the capability of AI to circumvent current security protocols.

Costs and Accessibility

Employing around 23,000 AI tokens for each attack, the expense totals approximately US$0.70 ($1.07). Nonetheless, open-source AI models can negate these costs, allowing less experienced individuals to perform complex attacks that formerly required considerable resources and expertise.

Ethical Considerations and Suggestions

Executed within ethical boundaries, the study aims to educate the cyber security community regarding the hazards of AI-driven attacks. Md Raz, the primary author of the research, stresses the necessity of acknowledging AI-enabled threats. The team advocates monitoring file access behaviors, regulating AI service interactions, and crafting detection techniques specifically for AI-created threats to tackle possible dangers.

Conclusion

The “PromptLock” prototype showcases the shifting dynamics of ransomware, propelled by AI technologies. While not an immediate threat, the research emphasizes the urgency for enhanced security approaches tailored to AI-generative attacks. The study acts as a call to action for the industry to gear up for future challenges posed by AI-fueled cyber threats.

Q&A: Deciphering AI-Driven Ransomware Prototypes

Q: What is the “PromptLock” ransomware?

A: “PromptLock” is an academic research model developed by NYU Tandon to evaluate AI-driven ransomware capabilities, rather than a real-world threat.

Q: How does the prototype function?

A: It employs AI models to autonomously carry out ransomware campaigns, producing unique attack codes for each target to evade conventional security systems.

Q: What are the ramifications of this research?

A: The study illustrates the potential of AI to augment ransomware capabilities, prompting the need for new security measures to counter AI-generated attacks.

Q: How can organizations safeguard against AI-driven ransomware?

A: By tracking file access patterns, managing AI service connections, and developing detection systems specifically designed for AI-driven activities.

Q: Why was the prototype initially misconstrued as a real threat?

A: Its advanced nature led experts to regard it as authentic malware, revealing the misleading potential of AI-driven cyber threats.

Q: What significance does cost hold in AI-driven ransomware?

A: While the prototype incurs costs, open-source AI models could eliminate these, rendering advanced ransomware attacks attainable to less skilled operatives.

Xiaomi Redmi Buds 6 Lite Hybrid ANC Wireless Earbuds Review


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Is Tesla’s Supervised FSD Capable of Maneuvering Around Cars That Are Double-Parked?


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Tesla's FSD maneuvering around double-parked vehicles

Brief Overview

  • Tesla’s FSD (Supervised) is currently undergoing trials in Melbourne, Australia.
  • The system exhibited human-like decision-making by navigating around a double-parked van.
  • FSD necessitates driver oversight and is not entirely autonomous.
  • Accessible right now for Early Access users in Australia, with a wider release anticipated soon.
  • The one-time fee for FSD in Australia stands at A$10,100.
  • Tesla intends to offer a free upgrade for existing FSD owners to support older hardware.

Tesla’s FSD Navigates Double-Parked Vehicles in Melbourne

Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology, under human supervision, has recently been tested in a real-world setting in Melbourne. In an unplanned scenario, the system skillfully maneuvered around a double-parked van, indicating its capability to navigate intricate urban driving challenges.

Real-World Testing in City Settings

During a driving test in Melbourne, a van was double-parked on a street, temporarily obstructing the road. The FSD system halted, evaluated the situation, and then proceeded to overtake the van by switching to the opposite lane, a move that many human drivers would employ in similar situations. This highlighted the system’s ability to mimic human-like decision-making in unexpected environments.

Situational Awareness in Decision-Making

The decision-making process of the FSD is not merely a reaction but demonstrates situational awareness. After passing the van, the system was confronted with another vehicle halted in its route. In this instance, the FSD wisely recognized that it was safer to wait, showcasing its flexibility in responding to varying traffic situations.

The Necessity of Supervision

In spite of its advanced features, Tesla’s FSD is still a supervised driving system. Drivers need to be alert and prepared to intervene. While FSD can manage numerous driving functions, it does not serve as a substitute for a human driver, but instead functions as an advanced co-pilot.

Cost and Availability in Australia

At present, the FSD (Supervised) software is limited to a select number of Early Access users in Australia. Tesla has indicated intentions to broaden its availability shortly, commencing with vehicles featuring Hardware 4. The one-time cost for FSD is A$10,100, and free hardware upgrades are assured for those who have previously acquired FSD.

Conclusion

Tesla’s FSD (Supervised) software is making advancements in Australian urban landscapes, showcasing its aptitude for navigating complicated and evolving driving conditions. Though it is not yet fully autonomous, its human-like decision-making skills signify notable progress in automotive technology. As Tesla gears up for a wider rollout, Australian drivers may soon witness the future of driving firsthand.

Q: What is Tesla’s FSD (Supervised) software?

A: Tesla’s FSD (Supervised) is a driver-assistance system that necessitates human supervision. It aims to address complex driving situations through human-like decision-making.

Q: How did the FSD navigate the double-parked car situation?

A: The system paused to evaluate the circumstances and safely maneuvered around the double-parked van by shifting into the opposite lane, similar to how a human driver would react.

Q: Is Tesla’s FSD fully autonomous?

A: No, it operates as a supervised system that requires drivers to remain alert and ready to take control if needed.

Q: What is the price of Tesla’s FSD in Australia?

A: The FSD is offered for a one-time purchase price of A$10,100.

Q: Who can currently use Tesla’s FSD in Australia?

A: At present, it is accessible only to Early Access users, with a broader release anticipated soon.

Q: Will older Tesla models receive the FSD update?

A: Yes, Tesla has committed to providing free hardware updates for older models that have already bought FSD.

WA Health Unveils $104 Million Digital Health Record System


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Launch of WA Health’s Digital Medical Record System

Brief Overview

  • WA Health finalises the first phase of the electronic medical record (EMR) revamp.
  • 44 million files have been transitioned to a fresh digital platform.
  • The initiative is part of a $247 million effort for medical record enhancement.
  • The system features single sign-on and virtual desktop technology.
  • WA Government has set aside $104 million in the 2024-25 State Budget for this implementation.
  • This effort contributes to a larger $1.2 billion digital infrastructure upgrade for WA’s healthcare system.
WA Health initiates $104m digital medical record system

The Digital Evolution of WA Health

WA Health has achieved a significant milestone by completing the initial phase of its electronic medical record (EMR) revamp, successfully transitioning 44 million files to a new digital platform. This ambitious project, launched in August, is part of a considerable $247 million investment aimed at modernising the medical record system statewide.

Transforming Healthcare with Technology

The upgraded system, featuring single sign-on and virtual desktop infrastructure, is set to transform healthcare delivery throughout Western Australia. Health Minister Meredith Hammat remarked, “This significant milestone represents the movement towards modernising and enhancing healthcare throughout our state.”

Due to the vast geographical expanse of Western Australia, these technological innovations are essential for improving connectivity and quality of patient care. NTT Australia provided the single sign-on system, facilitating card-based access to approximately 90 clinical applications, thus streamlining processes for healthcare providers.

Funding and Future Endeavors

The WA Government has earmarked $104 million in the 2024-25 State Budget to facilitate the implementation of this digital medical record system, improving interoperability among clinical systems. This digital advancement is part of an extensive $1.2 billion funding initiative targeting enhancements in public hospital capacity and the modernisation of digital infrastructure across the state.

Conclusion

WA Health has effectively launched the first stage of its digital medical record system, a pivotal element of its comprehensive strategy to modernise healthcare delivery throughout Western Australia. With substantial financial investment and technological backing, this initiative lays the groundwork for a more cohesive and effective health system.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the main aim of WA Health’s digital medical record system?

A: The primary goal is to modernise and enhance healthcare delivery throughout Western Australia by implementing advanced technology to improve connectivity and patient care.

Q: How many documents were transferred to the new system?

A: A total of 44 million files were successfully transitioned to the new digital platform.

Q: What functionalities does the new system offer?

A: The system includes single sign-on and virtual desktop infrastructure, providing seamless access to clinical applications.

Q: What amount has the WA Government invested in this digital project?

A: The WA Government has allocated $104 million in the 2024-25 State Budget for the implementation of the digital medical record system.

Q: What is the larger financial context surrounding this project?

A: This initiative is part of a broader $1.2 billion funding package aimed at enhancing public hospital capacity and modernising the state’s digital health infrastructure.

Fetch TV Concludes Four-Year Price Hold with Music-Oriented Channel Growth


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Fetch TV introduces new channels amid subscription price hikes

Fetch TV has announced the launch of six new channels along with the integration of the Crunchyroll anime streaming service, coupled with its initial subscription price increases since 2021. The Australian pay-TV service revealed that these updates will go live from 1 September, which will affect all premium channel packages.

Fetch TV Broadens Channel Selection Amid Pricing Changes

Fetch TV, a widely-known Australian pay-TV service, has revealed an exciting enhancement to its channel offerings alongside a pricing overhaul. This marks the first increase in pricing since 2021. Beginning on 1 September, the update includes the addition of six fresh channels and the incorporation of Crunchyroll anime streaming service, although this will involve an additional subscription cost.

Quick Overview

  • Fetch TV adds six new channels, featuring Moonbug and Declassified.
  • Integration of Crunchyroll anime streaming service, requiring a separate subscription.
  • First price increase for subscriptions by Fetch TV since 2021.
  • New channel packages provide diverse content, covering music and military history.
  • Pricing changes stand out compared to frequent hikes from competitors.

New Channel Offerings

Moonbug Kids Channel

The Moonbug Kids Channel delivers cherished children’s programming such as CoComelon, Blippi, and Little Angel to Australian viewers in a commercial-free setting. This represents the inaugural dedicated Moonbug channel in the nation, offering a secure and engaging environment for young audiences.

Declassified Military History

Declassified features compelling documentaries about warfare, military strategies, and intelligence activities. Exclusively available on Fetch TV, this channel appeals to history buffs with a strong interest in military stories.

Stingray Music Channels

Fetch TV’s new Stingray music channels comprise four genre-specific selections: Stingray Loud (rock), Stingray Retro (classic hits), Stingray Country, and Stingray Hits. Each channel presents 24-hour music programming to cater to varied musical preferences.

Crunchyroll Streaming Integration

The Crunchyroll app offers access to over 39,000 anime episodes from more than 1,600 titles, including fan-favorite series like One Piece, JUJUTSU KAISEN, and My Hero Academia. However, accessing this content necessitates an additional subscription fee, ranging from A$10.99 to A$13.99 monthly.

Pricing Changes

Fetch TV’s pricing restructure results in most channel packages increasing to $7.99 per month for Vibe, Knowledge, Variety, and Kids packs. The Ultimate Pack now costs $24.99 per month, while the Entertainment Pack is $17.99 per month. The Movie Box package remains competitively priced at $2.99 monthly.

Fetch TV CEO Dominic Arena stated that the investment in fresh content underscores the company’s dedication to providing excellent value and a wide entertainment range for Australian families. Nonetheless, the pricing adjustments have provoked mixed responses among subscribers, with some questioning the worth of the new music-oriented lineup.

Industry Landscape

The timing of Fetch TV’s price adjustment contrasts with several increases by major streaming rivals like Netflix, Stan, and Disney+ during the same timeframe. Industry analysts note Fetch TV’s relatively stable rates amidst rising content licensing costs and inflationary pressures experienced by competitors.

Nicolas Eglau, Managing Director at Moonbug Entertainment, expressed enthusiasm for the debut of the first Moonbug Channel in Australia, highlighting the chance to share beloved children’s content with a broader range of families.

Anime Integration for Expanding Fanbase

Given the growing anime fanbase in Australia, the Crunchyroll integration addresses this desire, providing fans with easier access to leading Japanese anime titles. Terry Li of Crunchyroll praised Australia’s enthusiastic anime community, underscoring Fetch TV’s contributions to delivering exceptional anime experiences to local viewers.

Conclusion

Fetch TV’s channel expansion and pricing modifications signify a noteworthy change in its service offerings. While it presents a variety of new content options, the changes have garnered mixed reactions from subscribers. As Fetch TV aims to solidify its position against streaming giants, it navigates the complexities of pricing strategies and content curation.

Q: What new channels has Fetch TV rolled out?

A: Fetch TV has launched six new channels, among them Moonbug for kids, Declassified for military history, and four Stingray music channels spanning various genres.

Q: How does the Crunchyroll integration function?

A: Fetch TV now incorporates the Crunchyroll anime streaming service, but accessing it requires a separate subscription fee of A$10.99 to A$13.99 monthly.

Q: What are the updated subscription costs for Fetch TV’s channel packages?

A: The Vibe, Knowledge, Variety, and Kids packs are now $7.99 per month, the Ultimate Pack is priced at $24.99, the Entertainment Pack at $17.99, while the Movie Box stays at $2.99 monthly.

Q: How have subscribers responded to the price hikes and new channels?

A: Subscriber feedback has been varied, with some expressing dissatisfaction over the price increases and questioning the value of the new music-centric channel lineup.

Q: How does Fetch TV’s pricing compare to that of its competitors?

A: Fetch TV’s pricing adjustment marks its first change in four years, contrasting with the multiple hikes experienced by competitors like Netflix, Stan, and Disney+ in the same timeframe.

Q: What is the importance of the Moonbug Channel’s launch in Australia?

A: The launch of the Moonbug Channel is significant as it introduces the first dedicated Moonbug channel on Australian television, providing popular children’s content in a commercial-free format.

Jaguar Land Rover Aimed at in Cyber Assault


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Jaguar Land Rover Encounters Disruptions from Cyber Attack

Quick Overview

  • Operations at Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) impacted by a cyber incident.
  • No indications of customer data breach found yet.
  • Cybersecurity event comes after delays in electric vehicle rollouts.
  • Event reflects an increasing trend of global cyber threats.

Consequences for Jaguar Land Rover

Jaguar Land Rover’s retail and manufacturing operations have encountered major disruptions due to a cybersecurity event. The firm, which is part of India’s Tata Motors, is in the process of restoring its functions in a measured approach. At this moment, JLR has found no proof of customer data theft, even though systems were deactivated to lessen the consequences.

Jaguar Land Rover affected by cyber incident

Postponed Electric Vehicle Launches

The cyber incident exacerbates current difficulties for JLR, which had already delayed the introduction of its electric Range Rover and Jaguar vehicles. Initially planned for an earlier launch, the postponement was attributed to prolonged testing and waiting for a rise in market demand.

International Rise in Cyber Threats

JLR is not the only entity encountering such threats. This incident is part of a worldwide rise in cyber and ransomware attacks that have been striking various sectors. In recent times, other UK companies such as retailer M&S and Co-op Group have also faced comparable cyber security challenges.

Overview

The recent cyber incident affecting Jaguar Land Rover emphasizes the susceptibility of even large firms to advanced cyber threats. While JLR strives to restore its operations, the event highlights the necessity for strong cyber security protocols amid a growing global trend of cyber assaults.

Questions & Answers

Q: What measures is JLR implementing to lessen the impact of the cyber attack?

A: JLR has temporarily deactivated its systems to prevent additional harm and is aiming to resume operations in a controlled manner.

Q: Has there been any compromise of customer data in the incident?

A: As of now, JLR has not identified any signs of customer data theft.

Q: What effect does this incident have on JLR’s electric vehicle initiatives?

A: The cyber attack compounds JLR’s existing issues, which already included delays in the rollout of its electric vehicle models.

Q: What are the wider implications of such cyber incidents?

A: The incident forms part of a global increase in cyber threats, underscoring the requirement for improved cybersecurity across various industries.

Researchers Discover Creative Cryptomining Assault


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Darktrace Researchers Reveal Novel Cryptomining Assault

Overview

  • Darktrace detected a new cryptomining assault leveraging NBMiner malware.
  • This assault utilizes PowerShell and AutoIt for injecting processes within Windows.
  • With the flourishing cryptocurrency market, cryptojacking incidents have surged.
  • The malware connects to mining pools, targeting currencies such as Ravencoin.
  • Detection methods are hindered by advanced evasion techniques.

Unveiling a Fresh Cryptomining Method

In a pivotal finding, Darktrace researchers have recorded the initial instance of NBMiner cryptomining malware that employs a PowerShell-based tactic to infiltrate legitimate Windows processes with malicious code. This attack was identified on a retail and e-commerce network, representing a fresh advancement in the cryptojacking landscape.

Chronicle of the Attack

The incident initiated when an infected desktop device accessed a dubious IP address. A PowerShell script named infect.ps1 was retrieved, serving as the primary dropper for the malware. The script was extensively obfuscated using Base64 and XOR encoded information, highlighting the attackers’ advanced programming capabilities.

AutoIt’s Contribution to the Assault

After decryption, the script generated a valid AutoIt executable located in the application’s data directory of the system. The malware utilized sophisticated evasion strategies, specifically targeting the Windows Character Map application to attain full memory access and circumvent conventional security protocols. These techniques underscore the attackers’ comprehensive knowledge of Windows environments.

Strategies for Evasion and Persistence

In order to remain undetected, the malware employed a variety of anti-sandboxing and privilege escalation strategies. It verified the presence of antivirus software, proceeding only if Windows Defender was the exclusive protection in place. It also tried to bypass User Account Control warnings to secure enhanced privileges.

Deployment of the Cryptominer

Within the authentic process, the payload for cryptomining was allocated in memory, decrypted, and executed, simulating legitimate operations. This tactic complicates detection for security tools reliant on process observation. The cryptominer linked to the asia.ravenminer.com pool, mining Ravencoin while concealing its activities.

Conclusion

This newly identified cryptomining assault exemplifies the escalating sophistication of cyber threats in the cryptocurrency domain. By employing advanced methodologies in PowerShell and AutoIt for process injection, attackers can effectively mask malevolent activities as legitimate, presenting substantial difficulties for detection and counteraction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What distinguishes this cryptomining attack?

A: This attack is remarkable for its implementation of a PowerShell-oriented strategy paired with AutoIt to inject harmful code into lawful Windows processes, making detection more difficult.

Q: What is causing the rise in cryptojacking?

A: The increase in cryptojacking corresponds with the rapid expansion of the cryptocurrency market, offering lucrative prospects for attackers seeking to exploit illicit mining.

Q: In what ways does the malware avoid detection?

A: The malware employs tactics such as anti-sandboxing, targeting legitimate processes for memory access, and checking for antivirus systems to evade detection.

Q: What measures can organizations take to safeguard against these attacks?

A: Organizations should implement advanced threat detection technologies, frequently update security measures, and train staff to recognize suspicious behaviors.

boAt Airdopes 141 ANC TWS Earbuds Review


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