Techbest – Top Tech Reviews In Australia
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Skullcandy Dime True Wireless in-Ear Earbuds – Golden Orange
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In an incident recognized as the most extensive healthcare data breach in American history, the February 2023 cyber invasion of UnitedHealth’s technology sector, Change Healthcare, has compromised the private data of 100 million individuals. This breach, executed by the infamous hacking collective ALPHV (also referred to as BlackCat), has reverberated throughout the healthcare sector, interrupting services, and sparking worries regarding the security of sensitive health information.
The cyberattack on Change Healthcare was executed by ALPHV, a name well-known in the arena of cyber crime as “BlackCat.” This organization has acquired infamy for its intricate ransomware schemes and has been linked to multiple significant breaches. Typically, ALPHV utilizes sophisticated encryption techniques to hijack systems, demanding a ransom for the decryption of data.
In this particular incident, the assault on Change Healthcare compromised the personal information of 100 million individuals, encompassing health insurance member IDs, social security numbers, diagnostic records, and billing information. The breach not only affected patients but also hindered the functioning of the healthcare system, causing delays in claims processing and generating considerable administrative difficulties for service providers.
UnitedHealth first disclosed the breach on February 21, 2023, after the hacking group gained access to Change Healthcare. However, it wasn’t until June 2023 that notifications began reaching affected individuals. The US Department of Health’s Office for Civil Rights has recognized this breach as the largest of its kind within the nation.
Healthcare organizations have consistently been prime targets for cyberattacks owing to the sensitive data they manage. The breach at UnitedHealth serves as a stark reminder that even large corporations equipped with abundant resources can become victims of cybercriminal activity.
In 2015, another prominent health insurer, Anthem (now known as Elevance Health), experienced a breach impacting nearly 79 million individuals. Yet, the 2023 incident involving UnitedHealth’s technology sector, Change Healthcare, surpasses this, affecting 100 million individuals.
The consequences of the UnitedHealth breach have incurred substantial costs. The company projects a business interruption cost of US$705 million (AUD$1.06 billion) for the fiscal year. This estimate encompasses expenses associated with notifying impacted customers, providing loans to healthcare providers, and managing the disruptions inflicted on claims processing. The company has been disbursing billions of dollars in loans to healthcare providers affected by the breach, emphasizing the extensive repercussions of the attack.
Although this breach took place in the United States, it carries significant implications for Australia. The global healthcare sector, including Australia, is increasingly becoming a target for cybercriminals. With the expansion of interconnected healthcare systems and digital patient records, the importance of protecting sensitive data has never been more paramount.
The Australian government has been intensifying its efforts to enhance cybersecurity, particularly within critical sectors such as healthcare. Initiatives like the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) offer guidance and support to organizations on safeguarding themselves from cyber threats. However, as this breach illustrates, even the most robust cybersecurity frameworks can be at risk without ongoing updates and scrutiny.
The cyberattack on UnitedHealth’s technology division, Change Healthcare, impacted the personal data of 100 million individuals, establishing it as the largest healthcare data breach in the United States. This breach, executed by the hacking collective ALPHV (BlackCat), led to widespread disruptions within the healthcare sector, particularly affecting claims processing. UnitedHealth anticipates a business disruption cost of US$705 million (AUD$1.06 billion) as a consequence of the breach. This incident underscores the growing vulnerability of the healthcare field to cyber threats, both in the United States and globally, including Australia.
The hacking collective ALPHV, also known as BlackCat, executed the cyberattack on UnitedHealth’s technology division, Change Healthcare. ALPHV is recognized for its intricate ransomware operations.
The breach compromised the personal information of 100 million individuals. This data may consist of health insurance member IDs, social security numbers, patient health records, treatment details, and billing codes utilized by healthcare providers.
The breach led to significant disturbances in claims processing, impacting both patients and providers. UnitedHealth has incurred considerable financial costs, anticipating a business disruption cost of US$705 million (AUD$1.06 billion) for the year.
UnitedHealth commenced notifying those affected in June 2023, several months after the breach was initially reported in February 2023. This notification is a requirement for the company to inform customers whose private data may have been jeopardized.
This breach stands as the largest healthcare data breach in American history, impacting 100 million individuals. The previous record was set in 2015 when health insurer Anthem (now Elevance Health) was breached, affecting nearly 79 million individuals.
Australian healthcare providers can understand the critical need to strengthen cybersecurity measures to safeguard sensitive patient information. The event highlights the necessity for continual monitoring and updating of cybersecurity protocols. Organizations should also be prepared for the financial and operational ramifications of a potential cyber incident.
UnitedHealth has been issuing billions of dollars in loans to healthcare providers impacted by the disruption. The company is also proceeding with notifying affected individuals and working to restore standard operations throughout its systems.
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True Wireless Earbuds Bluetooth 5.3 with Microphone for Working Out Noise Canceling Blue Tooth Ear Buds Deep Bass TWS Wireless Earphones with Charging Case in Ear Headphone for iPhone Android Black
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The Beehive Hotel Motel in Coolac, NSW, is poised for a modern transformation, as Tesla plans to launch a 12-bay Supercharger station there. This station will include cutting-edge V4 Superchargers, a solar array, and a Tesla Megapack for renewable energy storage. In this article, we’ll explore all the specifics of this thrilling initiative and its implications for the area and Tesla users.
Once the Beehive Hotel Motel in Coolac reopens following renovations, it will transform into more than just a local pub. Tesla has disclosed plans for a state-of-the-art 12-bay Supercharger station at the venue, equipped with the newest V4 chargers. Although Tesla has been broadening its Supercharger network throughout Australia, this station promises to be one of the most sophisticated, integrating solar technology and battery storage.
The standout feature of this Supercharger station is its solar array. It will be adorned with 176 Canadian Solar panels, specifically the CSI CS6W-555MS model. Each panel delivers 555 Watts, resulting in a substantial solar capacity of 97.68 kWp. The energy produced by these panels will be converted via Sungrow Solar SG50CX and SG30CX inverters, establishing the station as a symbol of renewable energy.
This solar array will not only power the Superchargers, but it will also provide drivers with a remarkable advantage: shelter while charging their vehicles. This is a rare attribute among the over 100 Tesla Supercharger sites in Australia, many of which are exposed to the elements.
Along with the solar setup, the Coolac site will feature a Tesla Megapack. This substantial battery system will hold surplus solar energy generated during daylight, which can then be utilized for vehicle charging in the evening or during less sunny days. The retained energy may also assist in powering other sections of the site, such as the Beehive Hotel Motel and any additional lodging facilities built in the future.
While Tesla has implemented Megapacks in a variety of global locations, this may be one of the first occasions a Megapack is used alongside a Supercharger station in Australia. This synergy of renewable energy production and storage could establish a groundbreaking benchmark for forthcoming EV charging stations nationwide.
The Beehive Hotel Motel has witnessed better times, but this initiative could rejuvenate both the establishment and the nearby community. Once renovations are finalized, the integration of a contemporary pub and a high-tech Tesla charging station is anticipated to attract more visitors to the region, enhancing local commerce and tourism.
Coolac, a quaint town in New South Wales, stands to gain from this surge of activity. The Supercharger station is expected to become a vital stop for EV drivers on lengthy journeys, potentially bolstering foot traffic in the vicinity and supporting local enterprises.
Projects of this scale require significant time and effort. Tesla had to navigate numerous regulatory hurdles to bring this site to fruition. The development phase necessitated a myriad of reports and analyses, including aboriginal and heritage studies, environmental impact reviews, and soil examinations, among others. This careful planning ensures that the undertaking is not just practical but also sustainable and considerate of the local landscape and heritage.
Tesla’s forthcoming 12-bay Supercharger station in Coolac, NSW, is destined to be a prominent facility within Australia’s EV charging framework. By incorporating a solar array and a Tesla Megapack, this station will provide quick electric vehicle charging while contributing to renewable energy utilization. The initiative is projected to enhance local commerce in Coolac, transforming the Beehive Hotel Motel and its surroundings into a modern hub for EV drivers and visitors alike. While the project encountered several regulatory challenges, Tesla’s dedication to renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure shines through in this bold venture.
Unlike the majority of Tesla Supercharger stations, the Coolac site will feature both a solar array and a Tesla Megapack for energy storage. The solar array will directly power the chargers, while any excess energy will be saved in the Megapack for usage at night or during cloudy weather. Additionally, the solar panels will offer shelter for vehicles during charging, a unique aspect in Australia.
The station will comprise 12 charging bays outfitted with Tesla’s latest V4 Superchargers, providing quicker charging speeds and superior performance compared to previous versions.
The solar array will consist of 176 Canadian Solar panels, with an overall capacity of 97.68 kWp. This energy will be converted using Sungrow inverters and utilized for direct charging of electric vehicles. Any surplus energy will be stored in the Tesla Megapack for occasions when solar production is minimal.
While the primary function of the Megapack is to retain energy for EV charging, it is also anticipated to power other parts of the site, including the Beehive Hotel Motel and any future guest accommodations.
There is currently no confirmed opening date, as the Beehive Hotel Motel is still in the renovation process. Once the hotel reopens, the Supercharger station is expected to be fully functional.
The Supercharger station is expected to generate increased traffic to Coolac, benefiting local businesses and the tourism sector. The merger of a modern pub and a cutting-edge charging facility is likely to attract EV drivers and travelers, providing the town with a valuable economic enhancement.
Presently, Tesla Supercharger stations primarily cater to Tesla vehicles, although there have been efforts to permit non-Tesla EVs access to these stations in certain locations worldwide. It remains uncertain whether this will apply in Coolac, but ongoing developments in this area are underway.
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Ownership-based models, where companies buy technology directly, are increasingly inadequate for contemporary businesses. Such models demand substantial capital expenditure (capex) upfront, posing a significant challenge for organizations, particularly those aiming for rapid growth or effective cash flow management.
Furthermore, these models offer limited flexibility. As technology advances swiftly, firms that own their IT assets often struggle to upgrade without facing hefty extra costs. The intricacies of lifecycle management, which involve managing disposal, upgrades, and maintenance of technology, add additional complications.
Flexible technology usage models, including leasing and Device as a Service (DaaS), present an attractive solution. These frameworks permit businesses to access cutting-edge technologies without hefty initial outlays, transforming what would traditionally be a capex expense into a manageable operational expense (opex).
By embracing these models, organizations can also benefit from scalable and versatile technology infrastructures. When demand spikes or requirements shift, companies can effortlessly upgrade or augment their tech infrastructure without the complications tied to traditional ownership. This adaptability is essential for businesses that must respond to fast-changing technological environments.
Sustainability is increasingly crucial for businesses on a global scale, and IT hardware significantly contributes to environmental impact. A study by McKinsey & Co. indicates that ICT hardware may account for up to 45% of CO2 emissions in the service industry. Flexible usage models, emphasizing sustainable lifecycle management, provide a viable solution.
Lukas Tränkle from CHG-MERIDIAN states that “by adopting flexible technology usage solutions focused on efficient lifecycle management, companies can decrease their IT hardware CO2 emissions by over 50%.”
This reduction is facilitated through optimized hardware utilization, minimizing waste, and guaranteeing that devices are adequately refurbished, reused, or recycled when they are no longer essential. For organizations keen on achieving their sustainability objectives, flexible technology usage models are indispensable.
CHG-MERIDIAN, a frontrunner in technology financing and lifecycle management, has crafted a distinctive approach known as technology2use. This model offers businesses a comprehensive array of solutions that encompass leasing, Device as a Service (DaaS), subscription models, and sustainable lifecycle management services, including certified data erasure.
Tränkle remarks, “Our flexible, end-to-end solutions simplify technology oversight and mitigate complexity for our clients.” This is especially advantageous for multinational corporations requiring uniformity and efficiency across different regions, as CHG-MERIDIAN functions in over 30 countries, with offerings available in nearly 190 countries via its subsidiary and partner networks.
Recently, CHG-MERIDIAN has amplified its market presence in Australia and New Zealand through targeted acquisitions and rebranding efforts. In 2024, the company acquired Maia Financial’s asset portfolio and transitioned its subsidiary, Equigroup, to CHG-MERIDIAN. This strategic initiative has established the company as the foremost independent operating lease provider for IT and healthcare equipment in the region.
These strategic maneuvers have enabled CHG-MERIDIAN to streamline its offerings, providing clients with simplified technology procurement, asset management, and oversight through the company’s **tesma** platform.
Tränkle observes, “With complete transparency facilitating decision-making, clients understand exactly what technology is in their possession, its location, and when it’s due for renewal, saving them time and resources. Everything becomes simpler, more efficient, and user-friendly.”
As businesses increasingly engage in digital transformation strategies and remote work arrangements, the demand for scalable, flexible IT solutions has reached new heights. CHG-MERIDIAN’s technology2use models are ideally positioned to accommodate these trends by delivering flexible, sustainable, and cost-effective technology management solutions.
By providing firms access to cutting-edge technology without the burdens of ownership, CHG-MERIDIAN’s offerings can assist organizations in remaining competitive in a progressively digital landscape. Their commitment to sustainability further ensures that businesses can fulfill their environmental responsibilities while enhancing operational effectiveness.
Flexible technology usage models, such as leasing and Device as a Service (DaaS), are transforming how organizations oversee their IT infrastructure. These models grant companies access to the latest technologies without large initial financial commitments while providing adaptability, scalability, and sustainability. CHG-MERIDIAN spearheads this area with its technology2use approach, merging leasing and lifecycle management to assist businesses in reducing expenses, enhancing efficiency, and minimizing their ecological footprint. With a robust presence in Australia and New Zealand, CHG-MERIDIAN is well-equipped to aid businesses in overcoming the challenges of digital transformation and sustainability.
Flexible technology usage models, such as leasing and Device as a Service (DaaS), enable organizations to utilize the latest technology without directly purchasing it. Instead of incurring a substantial upfront capital cost, companies pay a recurring fee for access to the technology, which can be scaled or updated according to their needs.
These models concentrate on efficient lifecycle management, ensuring that hardware is refurbished, repurposed, or recycled to reduce waste. This methodology can lead to reductions of over 50% in IT hardware CO2 emissions, assisting businesses in achieving their sustainability targets.
CHG-MERIDIAN’s technology2use approach blends leasing, Device as a Service (DaaS), and subscription models with sustainable lifecycle management. It aids businesses in managing their technology more effectively, curbing costs, and reducing environmental impact.
CHG-MERIDIAN has enhanced its footprint in these regions through the acquisition of Maia Financial’s asset portfolio and the rebranding of its subsidiary, Equigroup. This shift positions CHG-MERIDIAN as the premier independent operating lease provider for IT and healthcare equipment in Australia and New Zealand.
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Belkin SOUNDFORM Nano, True Wireless Earbuds, 85dB Limit for Ear Protection, Online Learning, IPX5 Sweat and Water Resistant, 24 Hours Play Time for iPhone, Galaxy, Pixel and More, Blue (PAC003btBL)
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Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 4 Smart Earbuds with Bluetooth 5.4, Crystal-Clear Sound, Comfortable Design, 30-Hour Battery Life, Adaptive ANC, LE Audio and Auracast – Black Copper
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In November 2023, Optus faced a major 12-hour outage, leaving countless consumers and businesses without their mobile and internet services. The disruptions caused substantial frustration, especially among those who depend on Optus for their work and daily tasks.
Following a wave of complaints and a senate inquiry, Optus has disbursed $1.2 million in compensation. This amount comprises both cash payouts and service credits given to customers claiming income loss due to the outage.
A total of 1154 customers successfully secured compensation, averaging $474 per individual. Yet, much of this compensation was issued as service credits instead of cash. Only a minor part of the compensation was in cash, primarily benefiting 75 individual and SMB customers.
While the majority of the funds went to individual consumers, enterprise customers also obtained some compensation. Fifteen enterprise accounts successfully claimed nearly $282,000 in service credits. This underscores the significant effects the outage had on businesses relying on stable connectivity.
The Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman (TIO) played an essential part in aiding customers to obtain compensation. The TIO reported assisting clients in securing about $53,000 worth of compensation, credits, or debt adjustments. However, the TIO noted its inability to track results for most complaints it managed, indicating that numerous claimants could have experienced uncertainty regarding their case resolutions.
In addition to compensation, Optus provided most affected customers with additional data. Nonetheless, financial compensation was limited, with the former CEO Kelly Bayer Rosmarin mentioning that the average customer would receive “between $1 and $2” in financial reparations.
This led to dissatisfaction among customers who believed that the compensation didn’t adequately represent the inconvenience and financial hardships they faced during the outage. The pressure from consumer advocacy groups and the senate inquiry ultimately led to the establishment of a more structured compensation process, resulting in the $1.2 million payout.
With the compensation process wrapped up, uncertainty lingers regarding how Optus intends to mitigate future outages and if the company will enhance support for customers affected by service disruptions. The inquiry into the outage raised significant concerns about the resilience of Australia’s telecommunications network and the necessity for improved safeguards to shield consumers and enterprises against similar issues in the future.
Optus has allocated $1.2 million in compensation following a 12-hour network disruption in November 2023, which left numerous customers without service. The compensation was predominantly in service credits, with a small amount awarded in cash to specific consumers and small businesses. The Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman assisted some customers in acquiring compensation, though many complaints were not fully resolved. The incident has sparked conversations about the strength of Australia’s telecommunications infrastructure and the need for enhanced customer support during outages.
The precise cause of the outage has not been publicly disclosed, but it was reported as a significant technical failure that disrupted Optus’s mobile and internet services for approximately 12 hours, affecting both consumer and enterprise clients throughout Australia.
Customers who encountered financial losses directly attributed to the outage could submit claims to Optus. The compensation process required proof of lost income, which Optus then reviewed. Compensation was available either as cash or service credits.
While Optus has compensated customers for this specific incident, it is uncertain if future outages will trigger similar reparations. The senate inquiry into the 2023 outage may advocate for stronger compensation policies, but no updates have been implemented yet.
In total figures, enterprise customers claimed $282,000 in service credits, but the majority of the compensation was directed to individual consumers. Small-to-medium businesses (SMBs) received a greater share of the cash compensation, yet both demographics faced considerable impacts from the outage.
The TIO assisted in facilitating compensation claims and helped consumers negotiate compensation with Optus. The TIO disclosed that it aided customers in accessing approximately $53,000 in credits, compensation, or debt adjustments. However, it could not track the outcomes of many of the complaints it processed.
Optus has not publicly articulated specific strategies aimed at preventing future outages. Nonetheless, the senate inquiry into the incident may inspire telecommunications providers, including Optus, to invest in more resilient infrastructure and enhanced customer support systems to prevent and manage outages more effectively.
This article summarizes and assesses Optus’s compensation efforts following the 2023 outage, providing context and addressing essential inquiries readers may have. The utilization of headings and subheadings optimizes the article for search engines and enhances readability. The “Quick Read” segment presents the main points for readers who may not have time to engage with the complete article.
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soundcore by Anker Liberty 4 NC Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds, 98.5% Noise Reduction, Adaptive Noise Cancelling to Ears and Environment, Hi-Res Sound, 50H Battery, Bluetooth 5.3 (Navy Blue)
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Yamaha TW-E3C True Wireless Earbuds with Multipoint Connectivity, Long Battery Life and Listening Care, Beige
