Techbest – Top Tech Reviews In Australia
The best in Australian gadgets and technology
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Donner Wireless Earbuds Noise Cancelling, Bluetooth 5.2 Earphones with ENC for Clear Calls, 12mm Drivers & Balanced Armature, App for Custom EQ, 32H Playtime, Fast Charging – Dobuds ONE, Blue
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As Tesla attracts global attention, the company is ready to introduce what could be its most groundbreaking endeavor—a self-driving Robotaxi that operates without a steering wheel or pedals. Set for a reveal on October 10, this forward-thinking vehicle is scheduled to be displayed at the Warner Brothers movie lot in Los Angeles, a site that allows for a secure and controlled testing environment.
The project surrounding Tesla’s Robotaxi has been a point of speculation for several years, but this occasion may finally yield tangible evidence that the company is primed to transform the realm of autonomous transportation. Event attendees are likely to catch their first look—and maybe even experience a ride—in this innovative vehicle.
What distinguishes Tesla’s Robotaxi is the anticipation that it will be a completely autonomous vehicle, crafted without standard controls such as a steering wheel or pedals. This represents a significant evolution from current automobiles, even those equipped with Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) software, which still necessitate human oversight.
Tesla has been enhancing its FSD software for years, but for the Robotaxi to accomplish its ambitious standards, it must function independently of human input. The company has alluded to this type of vehicle being integral to its vision, and that vision appears to be on the verge of realization.
The chosen venue for the event is indicative. The Warner Brothers lot provides a simulated urban landscape where Tesla can exhibit the Robotaxi’s capabilities without the complications of real-world traffic. This environment allows Tesla to display how the vehicle navigates streets, interacts with other vehicles, and avoids obstacles—free from the unpredictability of a real city.
The site’s choice also underscores the hurdles Tesla encounters in securing regulatory approval for the Robotaxi’s operation on public roads. By showcasing the vehicle in a controlled space, Tesla can circumvent some regulatory challenges, at least temporarily.
Interestingly, Reddit users have reported that Tesla may have already begun testing the elusive Robotaxi on the Warner Brothers property. The user claims that a vehicle covered in yellow has been observed, along with artificial bumpers and other concealment techniques, suggesting that Tesla is making significant efforts to keep the vehicle a secret until its official launch.
Moreover, numerous Tesla vehicles have been spotted stationed nearby, leading to speculation that they are being utilized for FSD testing in anticipation of the grand reveal. Although this information remains unverified, the sightings have enhanced excitement and intrigue regarding Tesla’s ongoing developments.
The effectiveness of Tesla’s Robotaxi will significantly rely on the capabilities of its Full Self-Driving (FSD) software. Although FSD is currently accessible in beta to a select group of Tesla owners, it still necessitates human supervision. However, for the Robotaxi to work as intended, the software must attain full autonomy.
Tesla has been developing FSD for several years, and while considerable progress has been made, the technology has not been fully realized yet. The Robotaxi may act as a significant examination of FSD’s potential, with its success or failure carrying considerable implications for the future of autonomous vehicles.
Tesla’s event on October 10 is anticipated to be a pivotal moment in the company’s journey toward fully autonomous transportation. With the expected launch of a Robotaxi that lacks a steering wheel and pedals, this event could usher in a new chapter in mobility. The controlled backdrop of the Warner Brothers movie set presents an ideal environment for Tesla to demonstrate the vehicle’s functions safely. However, the future of the Robotaxi hinges on the finalization of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving software, which must be perfected for it to operate autonomously.
The Robotaxi embodies Tesla’s vision for fully autonomous vehicles that can function without human drivers. Success in this initiative could transform public transit and personal transportation, diminishing the need for private vehicle ownership.
The film set offers a managed environment similar to urban streets, minus the unpredictability and safety risks of real city traffic. This allows Tesla to effectively demonstrate the Robotaxi’s potential in a safe, manageable setting.
Full Self-Driving (FSD) is Tesla’s sophisticated driver-assistance framework that aims to facilitate entirely autonomous vehicle operation. For the Robotaxi to work without human intervention, FSD must be capable of managing all driving responsibilities.
Reports from users on Reddit indicate that Tesla may already be testing the Robotaxi at the Warner Brothers lot under significant disguise. However, this remains unconfirmed, and the company has not officially acknowledged any specifics.
It is improbable that the Robotaxi will be available for public usage right after the event. There are still regulatory and technological barriers to clear before fully autonomous vehicles can function on public roadways.
If Tesla’s Robotaxi is a success, it could herald the onset of a new age in transportation where autonomous vehicles replace traditional cars, decreasing accidents, lowering emissions, and potentially making transport more affordable.
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In Australia, approximately 1 in 9 individuals suffer from asthma, emphasizing the need for good indoor air quality. However, those without respiratory conditions can also experience negative effects from subpar air quality. Given Australia’s extreme weather often requires sealed windows and doors, pollutants such as dust, pet hair, mould spores, and chemicals from household items can build up in the air.
During prolonged hot summers and cold winters, Australians frequently insulate their homes to achieve a comfortable environment. Unfortunately, this can unintentionally retain harmful pollutants indoors. This can lead to discomfort, fatigue, and potential long-term health issues for everyone, especially individuals with respiratory problems. Consequently, ensuring proper indoor air quality is vital.
An air quality monitor can provide immediate insights on particulate levels within your residence, while a purifier helps eliminate harmful contaminants. IKEA offers budget-friendly air quality monitors like the VINDRIKTNING and VINDSTYRKA that track PM2.5 particles—a crucial indicator of air quality.
When preparing food, especially with gas, pollutants can accumulate swiftly. An externally vented range hood can assist in clearing these pollutants from your indoor space. If feasible, consider upgrading from a gas stovetop to an induction model to lessen indoor pollution.
Plants such as peace lilies are known to aid in purifying indoor air. While they cannot replace a proper air purifier, they can enhance the freshness of your living environment.
Unflued gas heaters may emit harmful substances like carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) indoors. These pollutants can worsen respiratory conditions and lower the quality of indoor air. Switching to electric heating, such as reverse-cycle air conditioning, can help alleviate this issue.
Gas cooktops are known to release pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide and PM2.5 particles, which may irritate airways and trigger asthma episodes. If upgrading to a new kitchen setup isn’t practical, IKEA’s TILLREDA Portable Induction Hob presents an affordable and effective way to decrease indoor pollution during cooking. It serves as a reliable, temporary alternative for those not ready to undertake a complete kitchen renovation.
PM2.5 refers to particulate matter that is 2.5 micrometres or less. These minuscule particles can penetrate deeply into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, posing serious health risks. Keeping tabs on PM2.5 levels in your home is essential, especially since Australian air quality standards suggest maintaining PM2.5 levels below 25 μg/m3 for satisfactory air quality.
The VINDRIKTNING monitor measures PM2.5 particles only but provides an uncomplicated and economical approach to track air quality. It employs a traffic light system (green, amber, red) for quality indication:
However, the thresholds do not conform to Australian or WHO guidelines, which recommend a maximum of 25 μg/m3 for satisfactory air quality. When using this device, focus on the precise measurements instead of the colour-coded indicators.
The VINDSTYRKA monitor is a more sophisticated model that measures PM2.5 along with temperature, humidity, and tVOC (Total Volatile Organic Compounds). However, it only indicates tVOC trends (rising, falling, steady) without specific values, limiting its effectiveness. Nonetheless, it provides better accuracy than the VINDRIKTNING due to its display of precise PM2.5 levels.
The FÖRNUFTIG air filter is intended for small spaces of up to 8-10 square metres. If your area is larger, such as an open kitchen, it may not be as efficient, and you might want to look into IKEA’s more powerful STARKWIND unit, which accommodates spaces up to 20 square metres.
The FÖRNUFTIG contains a particle filter that captures 99.5% of PM2.5 particles and also provides an optional gas filter to target tVOC pollutants like formaldehyde and cooking or smoke odours.
As Australians become increasingly aware of indoor air quality, IKEA’s range of air quality monitors and filters presents economical solutions. Though the VINDRIKTNING and VINDSTYRKA monitors are effective for tracking PM2.5 particles, it’s crucial to remember that their air quality thresholds may not meet Australian or WHO recommendations. For larger environments, consider upgrading to more potent air purifiers like the STARKWIND. Additionally, you can improve air quality through enhanced kitchen ventilation, transitioning to induction cooktops, and incorporating houseplants.
PM2.5 refers to particulate matter that is 2.5 micrometres or smaller. These particles are small enough to be deeply inhaled and can even enter the bloodstream, leading to respiratory and cardiovascular complications. Monitoring PM2.5 levels is vital for preserving excellent indoor air quality.
If you’re seeking a straightforward, budget-friendly solution, the VINDRIKTNING monitor is a good option, though its colour-coded system may not correspond with Australian standards. For more comprehensive readings, the VINDSTYRKA provides added functionality such as temperature, humidity, and tVOC assessments, but be aware that it still necessitates a focus on precise figures rather than trends.
While plants like peace lilies can help absorb some pollutants, they are not a replacement for an effective air purifier. However, they can slightly enhance a living space’s freshness and overall air quality.
If transitioning to an induction cooker isn’t an option, consider utilizing IKEA’s TILLREDA Portable Induction Hob as a cost-effective alternative. This can help decrease indoor air pollutants from cooking, especially nitrogen dioxide and PM2.5 particles.
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Australia is adopting a tough approach against misinformation, proposing fines of up to **5% of global revenue** for social media platforms that do not mitigate the dissemination of falsehoods. This initiative aligns Australia with various nations advocating for heightened accountability from global tech giants, including Facebook (Meta), X (formerly Twitter), and others.
The legislation intends to address content that jeopardizes **election integrity**, impacts **public health**, or threatens **critical infrastructure**. This comes amid increasing worries that tech platforms, many based outside Australia, exploit their international reach to circumvent local laws and regulations.
The proposed law requires social media companies to establish **codes of conduct** aimed at managing misinformation and disinformation. These codes will need to receive approval from the **Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA)**. If a platform fails to devise an acceptable code, ACMA has the authority to impose its own standards. Non-compliant platforms could incur fines reaching **5% of their global turnover**.
The bill focuses on a wide array of harmful false information, including:
While many have endorsed the legislation, it has also raised alarms regarding **free speech**. Opponents contend that the bill may bestow excessive control to the government and tech firms over what is considered acceptable discourse. Opposition representative James Paterson has expressed worries, asserting that **Australians’ political views** should remain free from censorship by either the government or foreign platforms.
Minister for Communications **Michelle Rowland** has responded to these apprehensions, clarifying that the bill won’t empower ACMA to compel the removal of individual posts or accounts. Rather, it is designed to focus on overarching platform policies. Additionally, the legislation includes **exemptions** for professional news organizations, artistic works, religious content, and user-created material, aside from government-sanctioned content.
Australia’s efforts to regulate social media are mirrored across the globe. Nations are intensifying their actions against the proliferation of **false information** online, particularly concerning **elections**, **pandemics**, and **national security**.
In Europe, the **Digital Services Act** is poised to impose fines on tech companies that do not reduce misinformation, while the **US** debates how to address the dissemination of disinformation on platforms like X and Facebook.
Social media companies, especially **Meta** and **X**, are at the forefront of this regulatory challenge. Meta, which owns Facebook and Instagram, has voiced apprehensions regarding the financial ramifications of such legislation. Previously, Meta indicated it might prevent access to professional news content in Australia over a separate regulation mandating payment to media organizations.
On the other hand, **X**, acquired by billionaire **Elon Musk** in 2022, has significantly decreased its content moderation efforts, raising concerns that the platform could turn into a haven for unchecked misinformation.
The **Australian Communications and Media Authority** (ACMA) has embraced the proposed legislation, which would formalize its **regulatory role** in combating misinformation and disinformation across digital avenues. ACMA is anticipated to be a pivotal figure in enforcing the new regulations, ensuring that tech firms fulfill their responsibilities and curtail the propagation of harmful content.
Australia’s recent legislation is intended to tackle the escalating issue of misinformation on social media platforms, imposing significant fines to enforce adherence. The bill assigns tech companies the duty to establish appropriate codes of conduct while empowering ACMA to regulate non-compliant platforms. Despite receiving support, the legislation has raised alarms over free speech and political censorship concerns. By taking this action, Australia joins a worldwide movement of countries seeking to rein in tech giants and uphold the safety and integrity of online environments.
The legislation aims to tackle the spread of misinformation and disinformation on social media platforms, particularly content that threatens election integrity, public health, or critical infrastructure.
Social media companies could face fines of up to 5% of their global revenue if they fail to comply with the legislation.
ACMA will approve codes of conduct from social media platforms and enforce its own standards if platforms fail to do so. It will also play a regulatory role in ensuring compliance.
While the legislation does not force the removal of individual posts or accounts, concerns have been raised about the potential for political censorship. The bill includes exemptions for professional news, artistic, and religious content.
Meta has previously expressed concerns about the financial impact of such regulations and has threatened to block news content. X, under Elon Musk, has reduced its content moderation, which could make it more vulnerable to the new rules.
Yes. Australia’s efforts are part of a broader global push to hold tech giants accountable for the spread of misinformation. Other countries, like those in the EU, are also introducing similar regulations.
The timeline for the legislation has not been specifically mentioned, but it is expected to become a significant issue ahead of Australia’s upcoming federal election.
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The Australian government has declared a comprehensive federal inquiry into the utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) in its public sector activities. This action stems from rising apprehensions about the swift incorporation of AI technologies without sufficient governance structures to manage their application. The inquiry, launched by the Joint Committee of Public Accounts and Audit (JCPAA), seeks to closely examine how AI is being adopted in government departments and whether current regulations and policies effectively protect its use.
The JCPAA is responsible for ensuring accountability among Commonwealth agencies, voicing concerns regarding the potential hazards linked to AI application in government functions. The committee notes that although the use of AI in the public sector is increasing, there seems to be a deficit of governance frameworks aimed at appropriately regulating and overseeing this integration. The inquiry will investigate if the present legislative, regulatory, and policy frameworks are “fit for purpose” in dealing with AI technologies.
Establishing governance frameworks, particularly concerning AI, is vital to ensuring adherence to ethical standards, privacy regulations, and cybersecurity measures. The inquiry will assess whether current structures are capable of managing the complexities of AI, such as machine learning, automation, and data analysis, which are progressively being utilized by government agencies to enhance service delivery and decision-making processes.
A primary concern highlighted by the JCPAA is the possible misuse of AI technologies. This misuse could manifest in various forms, from unintended biases present in automated decision-making to privacy breaches arising from negligent data management. The inquiry will delve into the dangers posed by AI systems and whether sufficient oversight mechanisms exist to evaluate AI-generated or AI-assisted results.
As AI becomes increasingly integral to public sector operations, it is essential to ensure that these technologies maintain transparency, equity, and accountability. The inquiry is expected to investigate the testing and validation processes of AI systems to prevent mistakes and misjudgments that could significantly affect Australian citizens.
Another focal point of the inquiry is the internal ability of public sector agencies to effectively embrace and employ AI technologies. While AI offers significant prospects for enhancing efficiency and fostering innovation, the successful integration of these systems necessitates a well-trained workforce capable of managing, interpreting, and effectively utilizing AI outcomes. The inquiry will review the current capacity of government departments in regards to AI management, assessing the availability of adequate training initiatives and resources aimed at upskilling public sector staff.
Cultivating an AI-competent workforce is crucial for ensuring responsible usage of AI systems to their full extent. In the absence of proper education, there exists a risk that agencies could misuse or misinterpret AI-produced data, resulting in suboptimal decisions and potentially harming the public.
The JCPAA has extended an invitation for public submissions to gather broader perspectives on the government’s AI utilization. The committee will analyze submissions that were originally amassed as part of a past inquiry into Commonwealth financial reports for 2022-23. These contributions, in conjunction with new insights, will guide the inquiry’s direction and enhance the understanding of AI application in public sector entities.
Interested individuals and organizations can present their feedback until October 25, 2023. The outcomes of the inquiry are likely to carry significant implications for the future rollout and governance of AI across Australian government agencies.
The Australian government is under increasing inspection regarding its artificial intelligence usage, with a federal inquiry initiated to explore the frameworks and risks tied to AI adoption in public sector activities. Led by the Joint Committee of Public Accounts and Audit, the inquiry will address governance issues, potential misuse risks, oversight mechanisms, and the internal capabilities of governmental departments to manage AI responsibly. Public contributions are welcome until October 25, 2023, allowing individuals and organizations to voice their opinions on the future of AI in governance.
The inquiry seeks to analyze the current, planned, and future applications of AI by public sector bodies and determine if existing legislative, regulatory, and policy frameworks adequately oversee and monitor these applications. It will also investigate misuse risks and evaluate the public sector’s internal capacities to effectively manage AI technologies.
The inquiry is being conducted by the Joint Committee of Public Accounts and Audit (JCPAA), which holds the responsibility of ensuring accountability among Commonwealth agencies.
Key risks include the possibility of biased AI-generated outcomes, privacy infringements stemming from inadequate data handling, and a lack of clarity in AI-driven processes. Concerns also exist regarding insufficient oversight, which may lead to misuse or errors in AI outputs.
Public submissions will remain open until October 25, 2023. These contributions will influence the inquiry’s findings and deepen the understanding of AI’s current applications in government operations.
Once the inquiry assesses submissions and compiles its findings, it is likely to publish a report with recommendations on how the government should advance with AI adoption and governance. These insights may lead to policy reforms or development of new regulatory frameworks overseeing AI’s use in the public sector.
AI has the potential to greatly influence government services, encompassing areas from healthcare to social services. Ensuring that AI is employed ethically and responsibly in governmental operations is crucial to safeguarding citizens’ rights, privacy, and access to equitable outcomes. The inquiry aims to secure that AI technologies serve all Australians while minimizing any associated risks.
Governance of AI is vital to guarantee that AI systems are utilized transparently, accountably, and fairly. Without proper governance, there is a danger that AI technologies may lead to unintended outcomes, such as biased decisions, privacy breaches, and cybersecurity risks.
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JBL Vibe Beam Black
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As smart homes increasingly gain traction, Arlo is redefining security with its new **Arlo Secure 5** offering. This innovative system utilizes AI to deliver a more personalized and efficient home security experience, empowering users to oversee their security with improved accuracy and less hassle.
Arlo Secure 5 features several AI-driven capabilities that improve user interaction with their home security systems. These functionalities simplify the notification process, lessen irrelevant alerts, and furnish more comprehensive, actionable insights.
A key highlight of Arlo Secure 5 is **Person Recognition**. This functionality allows users to establish a private database of known faces, permitting the system to recognize particular individuals by name. Picture receiving an alert that not only informs you of someone at your doorstep but also specifies who they are. This feature is especially beneficial for families or those who frequently host guests, delivery personnel, or service workers.
Another remarkable feature is **Vehicle Recognition**. Arlo Secure 5 can now differentiate between various vehicles, enabling users to know which car has entered their driveway. Whether it’s your own vehicle or that of a familiar visitor, the system can be programmed to recognize and identify specific cars, refining alert accuracy.
Perhaps the most groundbreaking feature is **Custom Detection**. This functionality allows users to instruct the AI to recognize particular items or scenarios. For example, you can set it to notify you if your garage door remains open or if your pet ventures into a restricted area. This adaptability means that Arlo Secure 5 can cater to the specific security requirements of your household, ensuring you receive the most pertinent notifications.
Arlo Secure 5 presents a variety of subscription plans, commencing at **$7.99 per month**. For those seeking enhanced features, the Plus plan is available for **$17.99 per month**.
The rollout of Arlo Secure 5 signifies a major advancement in home security technology. By incorporating AI, Arlo not only curbs false alarms but also delivers a degree of personalization that was previously unachievable. This evolution makes home surveillance more intuitive, less intrusive, and significantly more effective.
Whether your concerns involve package theft, unauthorized visitors, or ensuring your garage door stays closed, Arlo Secure 5’s advanced features present a customized solution for every household. Furthermore, the system’s capability to recognize individuals and vehicles by name introduces a new standard of convenience and safety to smart homes.
While AI integration is crucial for enhancing home security, Arlo is dedicated to protecting user privacy. With the launch of Arlo Secure 5, the company continues to enforce strict privacy policies, ensuring that your personal information and security recordings are securely stored and accessible only to you.
This dedication to privacy, paired with cutting-edge technology, keeps Arlo at the forefront of the smart home security sector.
Arlo Secure 5 serves as a transformative force in the smart home security landscape. By harnessing advanced AI technology, it offers users a more personalized, efficient, and secure experience. Features like Person and Vehicle Recognition, alongside Custom Detection, diminish false alarms and provide customized alerts. Whether you wish to monitor deliveries, track specific vehicles, or ensure your home’s security, Arlo Secure 5 is engineered to fulfill your requirements.
With appealing subscription plans starting at $7.99 per month, upgrading your home security has never been simpler or more cost-effective. Arlo Secure 5 not only provides peace of mind but also enhances the complete smart home experience.
For further details on how Arlo Secure 5 can safeguard your residence, visit arlo.com.
Arlo Secure 5 brings forward advanced AI capabilities such as Person and Vehicle Recognition, Custom Detection, and enhanced detection features for packages and animals. These enhancements offer a more tailored and precise home security experience compared to previous versions.
Person Recognition enables users to create a private library of familiar faces. The system uses AI to identify those individuals by name when they appear on camera, supplying more relevant and specific alerts.
Yes, the Vehicle Recognition feature allows users to train the system to discern specific cars. This ensures that notifications are sent when a recognized vehicle arrives at or departs your property.
Custom Detection permits users to instruct the AI to recognize certain objects or scenarios, such as an open garage door or pets in restricted areas. This feature offers personalized alerts based on your specific security requirements.
Arlo Secure 5 has subscription plans starting at $7.99 per month. The Plus plan, which includes advanced features such as 30-day cloud storage and additional detection capabilities, is available at $17.99 per month.
Arlo Secure 5 adheres to strict privacy policies, guaranteeing that your information and security recordings are safely stored. You are the sole individual with access to your personal security data, and the system is crafted to maintain your privacy consistently.
Yes, Arlo Secure 5 is designed to work seamlessly with various smart home platforms, including Google Home and Amazon Alexa, for easy integration into your existing smart home setup.
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The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has revealed intentions to acquire cutting-edge software that facilitates “unattributable exploration” across various social media networks and internet layers, including surface, deep, and dark web. This strategy aligns with broader efforts to bolster the security of Australia’s tax and superannuation frameworks. The ATO is emphasizing open-source intelligence (OSINT) tools to aid in the detection and prevention of fraud, cybercrime, and other financial threats.
Open-source intelligence (OSINT) signifies the process of gathering and analyzing publicly available data, such as information from social media sites, forums, and other websites. Through the application of OSINT tools, the ATO can obtain essential information that is vital for protecting Commonwealth revenue. This endeavor builds upon the ATO’s initiatives launched in 2022, aimed at harnessing OSINT technology to more actively identify and mitigate financial criminality.
The ATO’s focus extends beyond the surface web. The newly acquired tools will also permit the monitoring of dark web platforms and marketplaces, recognized as hubs for unlawful activities. Criminals frequently utilize these spaces to perpetrate tax evasion, identity theft, and additional financial offenses. The inclusion of mainstream social media tools such as Facebook, Instagram, and Telegram, alongside niche forums like 4chan and 8kun, reflects the ATO’s commitment to outpace the evolving tactics of cybercriminals.
The principal aim of this enhanced monitoring capability is to protect Australians by identifying, intercepting, and disrupting severe financial crimes prior to their affecting taxpayers. The ATO has indicated that these resources will serve to safeguard Commonwealth assets and bolster the overall integrity of Australia’s tax and superannuation systems.
Financial crimes have evolved into complex operations, often involving cross-border transactions and the utilization of encrypted communication methods. The ATO’s new software will equip its teams with the capacity to track these actions in real-time, granting a significant edge in the fight against fraud. The ability to survey a diverse array of platforms—both visible and concealed—enables the ATO to adapt to contemporary challenges.
The OSINT tools will be augmented by advanced data science methodologies pursued by the ATO to detect internal risks. This will encompass monitoring potential insider fraud within the agency. Behavioural analytics software, sought by the ATO in 2023, is poised to play a crucial role in recognizing unusual behavioural patterns which could suggest fraudulent activities.
The ATO recognizes that criminals are in continuous flux, and the agency must adapt correspondingly. By investing in state-of-the-art monitoring and intelligence solutions, the ATO seeks to maintain a strategic advantage over criminals exploiting vulnerabilities in tax and superannuation systems. These tools will allow investigators to operate anonymously while performing searches, which is essential for blending with standard internet traffic and evading detection by the offenders they are pursuing.
The ATO’s commitment to anonymous monitoring software for social media and online activity marks a substantial advancement in the modernization of the agency’s capabilities in combating financial crime. By leveraging OSINT tools, the ATO will effectively monitor both surface web channels and concealed areas of the internet, such as dark web forums, to stay ahead of criminal activities. This initiative will also enhance the protection of Australia’s tax and superannuation systems, securing Commonwealth revenue against fraud and exploitation.
The new software will empower the ATO to conduct anonymous surveillance of social media and various online platforms, spanning the surface, deep, and dark web. This will facilitate the detection and prevention of fraudulent behaviours, tax evasion, and other financial criminalities.
The ATO will oversee a broad range of platforms, encompassing popular social networks such as Facebook, Instagram, and X (previously Twitter), along with more specialized and underground forums on the dark web such as 4chan, 8kun, and Telegram.
By keeping an eye on these platforms, the ATO aims to identify, intercept, and thwart financial crimes before they affect Australians’ taxes and superannuation. This initiative also helps to secure Commonwealth revenue and uphold the integrity of Australia’s financial frameworks.
Initially, around 40 ATO personnel will gain access to the tools, with potential for this number to expand over time. These users will include intelligence, operational, and data science teams responsible for monitoring and evaluating potential threats.
Indeed. A key feature of the new software is its capacity for conducting unattributable exploration, enabling ATO investigators to seamlessly integrate with ordinary internet traffic during searches. This ensures that criminal entities are less likely to discover their operations.
While the ATO will be scrutinizing various platforms, its focus remains on identifying and obstructing financial crimes. The software will be deployed by a relatively small, trained cohort, and its application is regulated by stringent guidelines to preserve the privacy of Australian citizens.
Various nations are adopting analogous OSINT technologies to tackle financial crimes. Agencies including the IRS in the U.S. and HMRC in the UK are also channeling investments into advanced monitoring technologies to protect their tax systems and counter cybercrime.
Yes, one of the pivotal features of the software includes the geolocation capability for persons of interest. This will assist the ATO in tracking individuals implicated in fraudulent activities and possibly aid in reinforcing cases for legal action.
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The realm of cybersecurity is swiftly transforming, and Qantas is rising to the occasion by launching a thorough array of cybersecurity initiatives for the fiscal year 2024-2025. The airline is integrating secure-by-design principles throughout its entire organization and enhancing critical cyber capabilities through automation, ensuring strength in an increasingly digital environment.
Qantas’ 2024 sustainability report showcases a significant growth in its cybersecurity activities relative to prior years. While earlier reports emphasized cyber safety culture, awareness, and employee training, the latest findings indicate a transition towards improvements in processes, technology, and governance. These modifications arise in response to increasing complexity in cybersecurity threats, particularly within the aviation sector.
The airline is not only running phishing simulations and providing tailored cybersecurity training to its workforce, but it is now addressing broader and more complex issues. This includes refining governance processes to handle third- and fourth-party cyber risks—an essential aspect for safeguarding the company’s supply chain. These initiatives are part of Qantas’ ongoing strategy to ensure its cybersecurity framework is sufficiently strong to mitigate risks from both direct suppliers (third parties) and their suppliers (fourth parties).
Qantas is wholeheartedly adopting the “secure-by-design” methodology, which has become fundamental to cybersecurity strategies across numerous industries. Similar to the National Australia Bank (NAB), Qantas is concentrating on embedding secure-by-design practices within its operations. Secure-by-design means that security is integrated into the design and development stages of software and systems, rather than being incorporated later. This strategy minimizes vulnerabilities and enhances the overall security architecture from the outset.
In FY25, Qantas intends to continue evolving secure-by-design practices and further assimilate them throughout the organization. This proactive strategy is crucial for establishing a resilient infrastructure capable of enduring both internal and external threats.
Qantas is also looking ahead by automating critical cybersecurity capabilities. Automation within cybersecurity aids in streamlining processes such as threat detection, incident response, and vulnerability management, enabling the airline to react to threats more quickly and effectively. The airline is harnessing new technologies, including generative AI, to further enhance these capabilities.
Generative AI can aid in recognizing patterns in cyber threats that traditional methods might miss. This enables quicker remediation of vulnerabilities and stronger defenses against emerging threats. By automating essential facets of its cybersecurity operations, Qantas seeks to bolster its overall resilience and stay proactive in the ever-evolving cyber threat landscape.
Cybersecurity is not solely an internal concern for Qantas; it is a collective industry challenge. To tackle this, Qantas is joining forces with other aviation sector players and the Australian federal government to enhance cyber resilience throughout the industry. This partnership is crucial, as the aviation sector is a primary target for cyberattacks due to its dependence on complex systems and sensitive customer information.
Through close collaboration with industry peers and governmental entities, Qantas aims to establish a consolidated defense against possible cyber threats, ensuring the safety and security of its operations and customer data.
Qantas has gained important insights from a recent privacy issue that arose in May 2023. Due to a technological update, the Qantas app briefly malfunctioned, showing data from other customers. The airline took immediate action, voluntarily reporting the issue to the Australian privacy regulator and informing affected clients. This incident underscored the need for more robust privacy and data security measures.
Qantas has since utilized the lessons learned from this event to enhance its technology and privacy frameworks. More broadly, the organization is also examining high-profile cyber incidents that have impacted other Australian and international firms, applying these insights to further strengthen its cybersecurity measures.
Qantas is making significant strides to enhance its cybersecurity framework, focusing on integrating secure-by-design practices across the organization. The airline’s broadened initiatives in automating key cybersecurity functions, improving third- and fourth-party risk management, and collaborating with industry peers and government entities reflect a proactive stance on cyber resilience. Additionally, the airline is leveraging new technologies such as generative AI to stay ahead of potential threats while learning from past incidents to uphold the highest standards of data privacy and security.
Secure-by-design is a cybersecurity approach in which security features are integrated during the design and development phases of software and systems. Qantas is adopting this method to ensure security is rooted in its operations, thereby reducing vulnerabilities and enhancing overall resilience to cyber threats.
Third- and fourth-party cyber risks arise from external suppliers and their suppliers, potentially impacting Qantas’ supply chain. By strengthening governance in these areas, Qantas aims to reduce the risks of cyber incidents that could indirectly affect its operations through these supply chains.
Automation and AI will assist Qantas in streamlining key cybersecurity operations such as threat detection and response. By employing generative AI, Qantas can recognize patterns in cyber threats more efficiently, which facilitates quicker and more effective reactions to potential risks.
After the privacy issue in May 2023, Qantas voluntarily reported the situation to the Australian privacy regulator and reached out to affected customers. The airline has since leveraged this experience to bolster its technology and privacy measures in order to avert future incidents.
Qantas is collaborating closely with aviation industry peers and the Australian government to enhance cybersecurity across the sector. Such collaboration is vital for establishing a united front against cyber threats, particularly in an industry characterized by complexity and interconnectivity.
During the 2024-2025 financial year, Qantas intends to continue strengthening secure-by-design practices, augmenting internal and external security testing, and further automating key cybersecurity processes. The airline will also investigate new technologies such as generative AI to strengthen its defenses.
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