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Google Pixel Buds 2a Review


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Google Pixel Buds 2a – Wireless Earbuds with Active Noise Cancellation – Lightweight, Comfortable Fit – Water Resistant – Bluetooth Compatible – Hazel

Gozney Introduces Dome Gen 2 and XL, Enhancing Australian Backyard Pizza Adventure


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Quick Read

  • Gozney has introduced Dome Gen 2 and Dome XL Gen 2 in Australia.
  • Features notable enhancements in cooking space and technology.
  • Includes a state-of-the-art digital console for accurate temperature management.
  • Offers two sizes to meet diverse cooking requirements.
  • Hybrid-fuel ovens capable of utilizing wood, charcoal, and gas.
  • Constructed with commercial-quality insulation for resilience.
  • Accompanied by a selection of accessories to boost functionality.

Gozney Dome Gen 2 and Dome XL: A New Chapter in Outdoor Cooking

Gozney, a pioneer in the realm of outdoor pizza ovens, has revealed its newest products, the Dome Gen 2 and the larger Dome XL Gen 2, now accessible in Australia. Renowned for delivering restaurant-quality pizza to domestic kitchens, Gozney’s latest models are set to elevate backyard culinary experiences.

Gozney Dome (Gen 2)

The Gozney Dome Gen 2 provides an impressive 40% boost in cooking area compared to the previous version, enabling home cooks to bake two 10-inch pizzas or one 16-inch pizza at the same time. This additional space is perfect for family gatherings or intimate parties.

Gozney Dome XL (Gen 2)

The Dome XL Gen 2 is tailored for dedicated entertainers, featuring a remarkable 90% expansion in cooking area compared to the original Dome. With space for three 10-inch pizzas or an 18-inch pizza, it is capable of preparing entire meals, including steaks and veggies, all at once.

Features

Intelligent Cooking with Complete Control

The innovative digital console is a highlighted feature, supplying real-time temperature readings and regulation of the oven’s ambient air and stone floor. It includes a timer and connections for two meat probes, guaranteeing precise cooking.

Rolling Lateral Flame

Gozney’s signature lateral flame technology guarantees uniform heat distribution, ideal for achieving the perfect pizza crust.

One Oven, Three Fuels

The Dome series embraces hybrid-fuel cooking, giving users the option to choose among wood, charcoal, and gas. This versatility allows for a variety of culinary techniques with ease.

Constructed for Longevity

Featuring commercial-grade insulation and a serviceable component design, the Dome Gen 2 series is built for durability and flexibility, presenting a worthwhile investment for cooking aficionados.

Accessories and Setup

A diverse range of accessories complements the Gen 2 series, including the Dome Stand, Dome Mantel, Neapolitan Arch, and multiple peels and cutters, enhancing the overall cooking experience.

Price and Availability

The Gozney Dome Gen 2 is priced at A$2,999, while the Dome XL Gen 2 is listed at A$3,999. Both models can be ordered through the Gozney Australian website and select retailers.

Summary

Gozney’s Dome Gen 2 and Dome XL Gen 2 revolutionize the outdoor cooking scene in Australia with their advanced features, increased cooking capability, and adaptable fuel options. Ideal for both amateur and professional chefs, these ovens are designed for outstanding performance and longevity.

Q: What are the key differences between the Dome Gen 2 and Dome XL Gen 2?

A: The primary distinction is in cooking space. The Dome XL Gen 2 provides 90% more space compared to the original, while the Dome Gen 2 offers a 40% increase. This impacts the quantity of food that can be cooked at one time.

Q: In what manner does the digital console enhance cooking?

A: The digital console offers accurate temperature control and real-time displays, facilitating improved cooking outcomes. It also includes a timer and ports for meat probes to monitor multiple dishes.

Q: Am I able to use various fuels in the Dome ovens?

A: Absolutely, both models accommodate wood, charcoal, and gas, providing versatility for different cooking styles and preferences.

Q: Are the Dome ovens appropriate for professional usage?

A: While intended for home use, their construction quality and features make them suitable for semi-professional chefs seeking high-performance outdoor cooking appliances.

Q: Where can I find the Gozney Dome Gen 2 ovens for purchase?

A: They can be purchased through the Gozney Australian website and at select premium retailers throughout Australia.

October Update Disrupts Windows 11 Recovery Environment


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October Update Problems in Windows 11

Summary Overview

  • October update impacts the Windows 11 Recovery Environment (WinRE).
  • USB devices malfunction in WinRE, hindering navigation.
  • Problems affect Windows 11 versions 25H2, 24H2, and Windows Server 2025.
  • Microsoft is developing a solution for the WinRE problem.
  • http.sys driver issues causing troubles with website connections.
  • KIR mechanism automatically rectifies http.sys issues for many users.
  • Resolved smart card authentication errors in 32-bit apps.
  • Various Windows versions impacted by CSP authentication issues.

Windows 11 Recovery Environment Issues

After the October security update, Microsoft has uncovered a serious problem concerning the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) in Windows 11. The update, designated KB5066385, has caused a breakdown where USB devices, including keyboards and mice, are non-functional within WinRE, thereby making recovery options unreachable. This complication has been acknowledged to impact Windows 11 versions 25H2, 24H2, and Windows Server 2025. Microsoft has promised users a forthcoming resolution.

Effects on http.sys Kernel Mode Driver

The update has similarly introduced a regression affecting the http.sys kernel mode driver. This has led to failed connections to Internet Information Server (IIS) sites, with users facing ERR_CONNECTION_RESET errors. This problem applies to websites and applications operating on localhost. Microsoft has put into action a Known Issue Rollback (KIR) mechanism to automatically resolve this concern for most home users and unmanaged business devices. For managed environments, administrators can employ Group Policy to implement a KIR.

Challenges with Smart Card Authentication

Another concern stemming from the October update involves smart card authentication. Users have indicated that smart cards are not detected as cryptographic service providers (CSPs) in 32-bit applications, resulting in failures with document signing and challenges for certificate-based authentication. Microsoft has offered a workaround, which includes registry changes to set the DisableCapiOverrideForRSA key to 0, thereby fixing the issue. This concern affects multiple Windows versions, including Win10 22H2 and Server 2012.

Conclusion

The October update for Windows 11 has brought forth several notable issues, affecting the performance of the Windows Recovery Environment, http.sys driver, and smart card authentication in 32-bit applications. Microsoft is proactively working to rectify these issues, with some resolutions already implemented through automatic processes and manual adjustments.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the primary issue with the Windows 11 Recovery Environment?

A: The primary issue is that USB devices such as keyboards and mice do not function in WinRE, preventing users from navigating recovery options.

Q: Which Windows versions are impacted by the WinRE issue?

A: The affected versions include Windows 11 versions 25H2, 24H2, and Windows Server 2025.

Q: How is Microsoft resolving the http.sys kernel mode driver problem?

A: Microsoft is employing the Known Issue Rollback (KIR) mechanism to automatically fix the problem for most users, while Group Policy can be used for managed systems.

Q: What actions are needed to resolve the smart card authentication issue?

A: Users must edit the Windows Registry by changing the DisableCapiOverrideForRSA key to 0 to fix the problem.

Q: Are there any additional Windows versions affected by the smart card issue?

A: Yes, the problem also influences earlier Windows versions, including Win10 22H2 and Server 2012.

Xiaomi Redmi Buds 5 Review


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Xiaomi Redmi Buds 5, Bluetooth 5.3 in-Ear Headphones, 46 dB Active Noise Cancellation, Up to 40 Hours Battery, Dynamic Driver, 5 ATM Waterproof, Sky Blue

Vocus ISP Dodo’s Email System Compromised Last Friday


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Quick Read

  • Dodo, an ISP owned by Vocus, faced a security breach impacting 1600 email accounts.
  • SIM swapping targeted 34 Dodo Mobile accounts.
  • Email services for Dodo and iPrimus customers were temporarily halted.
  • Fraudulent activity has been reported to the authorities.
  • Customers encountered prolonged wait times to restore email access.
Dodo email system security incident

Email System Breach: What Occurred?

On October 17, 2023, Vocus-owned ISP Dodo suffered a major breach that led to unauthorized access to around 1600 email accounts. The breach was made public through a post on Dodo’s official Facebook page on Sunday, shortly after the incident occurred on Friday.

Consequences of the Breach

After the breach, a portion of customers were affected by SIM swapping, which impacted 34 Dodo Mobile accounts. This process involves a fraudster substituting a customer’s working SIM with a Dodo SIM bought at a retail location, effectively rerouting the customer’s mobile number to the new SIM.

Vocus’ Response

In reaction to the breach, Vocus halted email services for both Dodo and iPrimus customers and limited services for Commander customers. The company is actively collaborating with affected customers to undo the fraudulent SIM swaps and has enlisted the help of authorities to further investigate the matter.

Customer Experience

Customers who were affected by the breach were instructed to reach out to Dodo for help, especially to reset their email account passwords. However, many reported significant wait times, frequently extending to an hour, to regain access to their accounts.

Overview

The breach involving Dodo’s email system has underscored the weaknesses in email and SIM security among telecommunications providers. As the company endeavors to lessen the impact and avert future incidents, affected customers are advised to stay alert and secure their accounts without delay.

Q&A Session

Q: What actions should Dodo customers take if they believe their account is compromised?

A: Customers must promptly contact Dodo to reset their passwords and keep an eye on their accounts for any unusual activity.

Q: How can customers safeguard themselves against future breaches?

A: Customers are encouraged to create strong, unique passwords for their accounts and enable two-factor authentication wherever feasible.

Q: What does SIM swapping entail, and why is it a concern?

A: SIM swapping is a fraudulent scheme where a hacker shifts a victim’s mobile number to a different SIM card, allowing access to confidential information. It raises concern due to its potential to cause unauthorized transactions and data breaches.

Q: Are authorities involved in the investigation?

A: Yes, Vocus has informed authorities regarding the fraudulent activities, and investigations are currently in progress.

Q: What steps is Vocus undertaking to avert future incidents?

A: Vocus is closely monitoring the situation and likely has introduced additional security measures, although specific details haven’t been revealed.

Q: How long will Dodo customers experience email service disruptions?

A: The exact length of the service disruption hasn’t been indicated, but Vocus is striving to restore full services as promptly as possible.

ACCAN Calls for Real-Time, Integrated Outage Details


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ACCAN Advocates for Immediate Outage Data

Brief Overview

  • ACCAN advocates for a centralized public register of telecom outages.
  • The proposal is designed to rebuild consumer trust with minimal financial or regulatory strain on telecom providers.
  • ATA contends that existing regulations are adequate and additional measures would create unnecessary bureaucracy.
  • Real-time notifications are proposed to avoid disjointed communication across various platforms.
  • Optus reported 272 incidents in a month, underscoring the necessity for improved consumer access to outage updates.

Overview

The Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) is advocating for a clear, centralized public register of communication service outages. This initiative comes after major disruptions, such as the failures of Optus’s emergency call services, which have undermined consumer trust in telecommunications firms.

Current Situation

Currently, telecommunications providers in Australia are required to comply with the Australian Communications and Media Authority’s (ACMA) standards for reporting outages. These rules mandate carriers to inform the public, stakeholders, and other service suppliers about outages through various channels including websites, social media, emails, SMS, and broadcast platforms.

ACCAN’s Initiative

ACCAN proposes a modification to the Telecommunications (Customer Communications for Outages) Industry Standard 2024 to incorporate a real-time updating public register. This system would unify outage information, offering consumers a singular, dependable source regarding network status and service interruptions.

Response from the Industry

The Australian Telecommunications Alliance (ATA), the leading lobby organization for telecom companies, opposes the proposition, asserting that current regulations are adequate. ATA’s CEO Luke Coleman argues that the existing system already provides timely updates to customers during outages and that ACCAN’s suggested register would simply add unnecessary complexity.

Example: Optus Outages

Recent Senate inquiries revealed that Optus had 272 reportable outages over a month-long period, bringing attention to the disjointed nature of current outage communication. ACCAN asserts that a centralized register would fill these communication gaps, ensuring consumers are better informed.

ACCAN advocates for real-time, unified access on outages

Conclusion

ACCAN’s initiative for a real-time public outage register aims to boost consumer trust in telecommunication services by providing a centralized information hub. While this proposal seeks to alleviate additional costs and regulatory demands, it is met with resistance from industry stakeholders who claim existing solutions are sufficient.

FAQ

Q: What does ACCAN propose for telecommunication service outages?

A: ACCAN proposes a centralized, real-time updating public register for communication service outages.

Q: Why is ACCAN advocating for a public register?

A: ACCAN believes that a public register will help restore consumer trust and provide a single, reliable source for outage details.

Q: What is the ATA’s view on this proposal?

A: The ATA maintains that the current regulations are sufficient and that ACCAN’s proposal would create unnecessary administration.

Q: How are outages currently communicated to consumers?

A: Outages are reported through a mix of channels, including websites, social media, emails, SMS, and broadcast media.

Q: Can you provide an example of recent outages that illustrate the issue?

A: Optus recorded 272 reportable outages from September 11 to October 8, highlighting the need for better communication.

Raycon Impact Earbuds Review


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ETRSAIRL Raycon Impact Earbuds Military-Grade Shockproof IP67 Bluetooth Earphones with Stereo Sound, 90 Hours Battery Life, Active Noise Cancellation (Black)

Cybercriminals Utilize F5 Devices to Compromise US Government Networks


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Cyber Threats from Nation-State Target F5 Equipment in the US

Summary

  • Unknown cyber threat actors are targeting US federal networks through vulnerabilities in F5 devices.
  • CISA issues an emergency directive to address risks and calls for immediate updates.
  • F5 verifies unauthorized access but assures no effect on operations.
  • Security experts are brought in to mitigate the threat and enhance security measures.
  • Concerns for national security hinder public notification of the breach.

Cyber Threats: A Continuous Issue

In a key update, officials from the US government have detected a persistent cyber threat aimed at federal networks. The actors behind the threat, suspected to be from a nation-state, are taking advantage of weaknesses in products from the cybersecurity firm F5. This event underscores the ongoing issue of cybersecurity threats that challenge governments and businesses globally.

Incident Details

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has launched an emergency directive following the revelation that hackers have breached F5’s systems. The threat actors have taken files, which include portions of F5’s source code and information on vulnerabilities. This information could potentially guide additional breaches of F5 devices and software, creating a serious risk for federal networks.

Cyber threats hitting government networks via F5 devices

Actions and Measures for Mitigation

Nick Andersen, the executive assistant director of cybersecurity at CISA, has instructed government agencies to recognize and update F5 devices present in their systems. He emphasized the critical nature of the situation, indicating that the risk encompasses all organizations utilizing these products. Although a breach occurred, F5 asserts that its operations are currently unimpeded, and the software development process has not been compromised.

Investigation and Security Actions

F5 identified the breach on August 9 and has since implemented extensive measures to control the threat. The company has enlisted the help of reputable cybersecurity firms such as CrowdStrike, Mandiant, NCC Group, and IOActive for their investigation. The breach affected data from a limited number of customers, who have been directly notified by F5.

National Security and Reporting

The US Department of Justice has sanctioned a delay in the public announcement of the breach until September 12 due to concerns regarding national security. This decision highlights the seriousness of the situation and the ongoing work to safeguard federal networks against such threats. At the same time, authorities in Britain have advised F5 users to promptly update their software.

Conclusion

The recent cyber threat aimed at F5 devices within US government networks is a stark reminder of the continuous cybersecurity challenges. With CISA and F5 taking firm measures to alleviate risks, it is vital for all organizations that utilize F5 products to act immediately and refresh their systems. The involvement of leading cybersecurity professionals underscores the complexity and severity of the threat.

Q: What specific vulnerabilities are targeted in the F5 devices?

A: The specific vulnerabilities have not been revealed to avoid further exploitation. However, F5 and CISA advocate for immediate updates to address these vulnerabilities.

Q: How is F5 ensuring the security of customer data after the breach?

A: F5 is enhancing its security protocols and infrastructure and has reached out directly to affected customers to manage the situation.

Q: What actions should organizations utilizing F5 products take to safeguard themselves?

A: Organizations are advised to quickly identify F5 devices in their networks and implement all critical security updates as instructed by CISA and F5.

Q: Is there any indication that the hackers have breached other sectors?

A: Currently, there is no evidence of breaches within US civilian agencies or other sectors, but the threat level remains for all organizations using F5 products.

Wireless Earbuds Review


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Bluetooth Headphones, In-Ear Headphones, Wireless Bluetooth 5.3 Wireless Headphones with 4 Mics, 2023 ENC Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds, 48H Deep Bass, IP7 Waterproof Earphones, LED Display, USB-C