Optus Provides Complimentary 7-Day eSim Trial with 30GB of Data

If you’re the runner-up in Australia’s mobile market, you often need to think outside the box to capture more market share. Optus is giving Australians the opportunity to test its mobile network at no cost.

Optus has significantly invested in enhancing its mobile network, resulting in better speeds and wider coverage. Changing to a new mobile provider might often feel risky, so to ease this transition, Optus is offering participants the opportunity to test its network for free for 7 days through the My Optus app on an eSIM-compatible device.

This is your chance to try out the Optus network firsthand, without needing to depend on a friend’s feedback or a coverage map. Usually, such offers involve a form of commitment or lead to a paid subscription after the trial ends, but this one is completely free and requires no commitments.

The Optus Network Trial Experience

During the trial period, customers will be provided with 30GB of data, unlimited standard national calls, and 1,000 standard national text messages for a duration of 7 days within Australia. This trial is crafted to be straightforward, without any obligations or hidden conditions, reflecting the telecommunications company’s commitment to customer empowerment and transparency.

Eligible customers can experience the Optus network for 7 days without needing to provide payment details by registering through the My Optus app. An eligibility check will confirm that customers qualify for the Optus Network Trial and have a device compatible with eSIM. Throughout the trial, you can conduct speed tests and receive a performance quality score, all accessible within the Optus app.

Steps to Join the Trial

1. Install the My Optus app.
2. Register for the trial by adhering to the instructions in the application.
3. Enable your eSIM and take advantage of 7 days of complimentary connectivity.

Comprehending Optus Network Pulse

Customers involved in the trial can effortlessly verify their connection using the My Optus app, where they have access to Optus Network Pulse. Network Pulse is an engaging, visual tool that allows customers to comprehend the quality of their connection on the Optus mobile network, all within the My Optus app.

Maurice McCarthy’s Insight

Maurice McCarthy, Managing Director of Customer Success at Optus, expresses his excitement:

“We’re thrilled to introduce the Optus Network Trial. This daring step highlights our trust in our network. With the ease of eSIM and our top-rated My Optus app, users can retain their current number while exploring the Optus mobile network. We are confident that once customers witness the Optus advantage, they’ll transition confidently.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is it possible to retain my current number during the trial period?

Yes, with eSIM technology, customers can retain their current number while trying out the Optus mobile network.

Q: Are there any undisclosed fees or obligations?

A: No, the trial is entirely free, with no hidden fees or obligations. The service automatically ends after 7 days.

Q: What are some methods to monitor my data consumption during the trial period?

You can get real-time usage notifications and monitor your data with the My Optus app.

What occurs following the 7-day trial period?

The service terminates automatically after 7 days. Nevertheless, customers can easily transfer their current number and keep using the Optus network by switching to an Optus mobile plan.

Q: How can I determine if my device supports eSIM?

The My Optus app will carry out an eligibility check to determine if your device supports eSIM before you register for the trial.

Summary

Optus has launched a new program enabling Australians to test its upgraded mobile network with a complimentary 7-day eSIM trial, offering 30GB of data. This obligation-free trial allows users to compare their existing service with Optus’s network seamlessly. The trial also features unlimited standard national calls and 1,000 standard national texts. Eligible individuals can effortlessly sign up through the My Optus app on eSIM-compatible devices and monitor their connection strength with Optus Network Pulse. For further details, visit https://tinyurl.com/Optus-Trial.

• Delta Air Lines is dealing with persistent difficulties following a significant IT disruption.
• The disruption has resulted in the cancellation of 778 flights, affecting thousands of passengers.
• A software update from CrowdStrike led to the problem, impacting numerous Microsoft users.
• Delta CEO Ed Bastian emphasized the effect on crew tracking tools.
• Delta is providing bonus payments to employees to maintain smooth operations.
• U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has urged for immediate refunds and rebooking.

Delta Faces Challenges in Resuming Operations Following IT System Failure

Delta Air Lines faced ongoing difficulties in recovering its operations on Monday, following a global IT outage that disrupted flights worldwide three days earlier, leaving thousands of passengers stranded. By 1:30 pm EST on Monday, the airline, headquartered in Atlanta, had cancelled 778 flights, amounting to roughly 20 percent of its planned schedule, based on data from FlightAware. These cancellations represented approximately half of all flight cancellations in the United States at that time.

Effect on Worldwide Aviation Activities

In comparison, disruptions at other leading US carriers had mostly diminished. A software update from the international cyber security company CrowdStrike led to system issues for Microsoft users, including several airlines, on Friday. A representative from Delta did not promptly reply to requests for comments.

CEO’s Reply and Actions

Delta CEO Ed Bastian mentioned over the weekend that the outage impacted a crew tracking tool, rendering the airline “unable to effectively manage the unprecedented volume of changes caused by the system shutdown.” In a different communication, he informed employees that Delta would keep “strategically adjusting” schedules to maintain safety.

Challenges in Recovery

Delta is highly regarded for maintaining a dependable operation. Experts note that its punctuality concerning arrivals and departures has contributed to the airline’s reputation as a top-tier carrier. Following the outage, it has called off nearly 30 percent of its flights, as reported by global aviation analytics company Cirium.

Customer Reactions

The problem has infuriated clients. Numerous individuals reported having to wait for hours to get help because the airline’s support lines were inundated. Some ended up renting cars to drive long distances, and others mentioned that they would have to wait several days for new flights. “I was extremely dissatisfied with Delta’s handling of this situation,” wrote Bob Pearlman on LinkedIn, who had reserved a flight from Honolulu to Salt Lake City.

Staffing and Incentives

Bastian mentioned that the outage occurred during “the busiest travel weekend of the summer,” which affected the airline’s ability to re-accommodate passengers. In a memo to staff viewed by Reuters, Delta indicated that it is “doing everything possible” to stabilize its staffing. The airline has increased incentive pay for pilots and flight attendants. “The most important thing you can do to assist right now is to pick up trips in any base,” the memo stated, urging crew members to volunteer for additional trips.

Government Intervention

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg stated that his office had received numerous complaints about Delta’s customer service. He urged the airline to offer swift refunds, free rebooking, and prompt reimbursements to their customers. “No individual should be left stranded at an airport overnight or be on hold for hours trying to speak to a customer service representative,” he commented.

Summary

Delta Air Lines is still dealing with the fallout from a major IT outage that affected flights globally. The disruption, caused by a software update from CrowdStrike, has resulted in numerous cancellations and customer frustration. The airline’s management is working diligently to return to normal operations by offering incentives to employees and strategically adjusting schedules. In the meantime, government officials are pressing Delta to prioritize customer service and speed up refunds and rebookings.

Q&A

What led to the Delta IT disruption?

A:

The software update from the global cybersecurity company CrowdStrike caused the outage, impacting Microsoft customers such as numerous airlines.

How many flights were affected by cancellations due to the outage?

A:

By Monday afternoon, Delta had canceled 778 flights, representing approximately 20 percent of their scheduled operations for the day.

Q: What measures is Delta taking to reduce the effect on customers?

A:

Delta is providing extra pay to pilots and flight attendants to ensure smoother operations. Additionally, they are strategically adjusting schedules and addressing customer service issues promptly.

How has the United States government reacted?

A:

US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has urged Delta to promptly issue refunds, offer free rebooking, and provide timely reimbursements. He emphasized that no traveler should be left stranded or have to wait on hold for hours to receive help.

How much time will it require for Delta to completely recover from this disruption?

A:

Although Delta is diligently striving to resume regular operations, the complete recovery might require several days due to the extraordinary volume of alterations caused by the system outage.

Q: How have customers responded?

A:

Customers have voiced frustration and disappointment, mentioning extended wait times for support and delays in rebooking flights. Some had to seek other transportation options.

For the latest technology news and updates, check out TechBest.

A Significant SIM Box Confiscation Results in Increased Efforts to Combat Phishing Messages

Advanced Smishing Scheme Discovered

Australian police forces have dealt a major setback to cybercriminals by confiscating 29 SIM boxes and thousands of SIM cards during raids across various states, targeting smishing (SMS phishing) activities. These devices had sent more than 318 million deceptive messages, defrauding victims of millions of dollars.

Information About the Raids

The raids occurred in New South Wales (NSW) and Victoria, resulting in the discovery of 26 SIM boxes in NSW and three in Victoria. The devices in NSW had been utilized to transmit more than 318 million messages over a period of several months. Meanwhile, Victorian authorities noted that the confiscated devices in their region were capable of sending hundreds of thousands of malicious texts each day.

Outcome and Arrests

Authorities made six arrests—four in New South Wales and two in Victoria—leading to a variety of charges. The individuals are alleged to have coordinated extensive SMS phishing attacks aimed at Australian mobile users.

Collaborative Actions in Combatting Cybercrime

The inquiry was launched by NSW Police in March but was carried out through the AFP-led Joint Policing Cybercrime Coordination Centre (JPC3). This centre includes all state and territory police organizations as well as the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC).

Expert Commentary

AFP Detective Superintendent Tim Stainton referred to SIM boxes as “inexpensive and harmful devices” employed by criminals to scam numerous victims. He further stated, “Without police intervention, these SIM boxes could collectively keep sending out between four and six million fraudulent messages daily.”

Summary

This extensive operation by the Australian police has delivered a substantial setback to cybercriminals employing SIM boxes for smishing attacks. The confiscation of 29 SIM boxes and thousands of SIM cards has halted the potential dispatch of millions more fraudulent text messages. Joint efforts by various law enforcement agencies have led to six arrests and numerous charges, underscoring the critical role of cooperative approaches in combatting cybercrime.

Q&A Session

Q: Can you explain what smishing is?

Smishing involves sending fraudulent text messages to users in an attempt to deceive them into revealing personal information or clicking on harmful links.

How many fake messages were transmitted by the confiscated devices?

In New South Wales alone, the confiscated devices were used to send more than 318 million fraudulent messages.

How many individuals were apprehended during the raids?

Six individuals were arrested—four in New South Wales and two in Victoria.

Q: Can you explain the Joint Policing Cybercrime Coordination Centre (JPC3)?

JPC3 is a joint effort that brings together all state and territory police forces and AUSTRAC to fight cybercrime in Australia.

Q: What could have been the potential consequences of the seized devices if they had not been intercepted?

The SIM boxes were capable of delivering between four and six million fraudulent messages daily.

Who is Tim Stainton?

Tim Stainton, an AFP Detective Superintendent, offered professional insights on the risks and implications of SIM box devices involved in smishing attacks.

How was the coordination of raids managed across various states?

The raids were organized through the AFP-led JPC3, with the participation of various law enforcement agencies from different states and territories.

Quick Read

• A BYD Atto 3 EV charging cable was vandalized in Newcastle.
• An incident took place at the Victoria Theatre kerbside charging station.
• Chargers set up by JetCharge are part of the Chargefox network.
• Kerbside chargers necessitate the use of your own Type-2 to Type-2 EV charging cables.
• Vandalism potentially driven by opposition to electric vehicles.
• Community assistance requested to identify the vandal using security footage.

Damaged Charging Cable in Newcastle

A BYD owner recently found their charging cable damaged overnight while charging their Atto 3 Electric Vehicle (EV) at a kerbside station in Newcastle. The incident took place at the Victoria Theatre at 8/10 Perkins St, Newcastle NSW 2300, a location that provides overnight charging for up to four vehicles.

Kerbside Charging Solutions

The kerbside charging stations at the Victoria Theatre, installed by JetCharge and integrated into the Chargefox network, offer AC charging at 7 kW from chargers mounted on light poles. These chargers present a practical solution for EV owners without home charging options, eliminating the need to run cables across sidewalks.

BYO Charging Cables

These curbside stations necessitate that EV owners supply their own Type-2 to Type-2 EV charging cables. These cables can be rather expensive, often costing several hundred dollars based on their length and quality.

Vandalism: An Increasing Issue

The recent incident of vandalism is especially discouraging, indicating a possible anti-electric vehicle attitude. Although the car was not harmed, the expensive charging cable was ruined. There is hope that local companies or inhabitants might possess security recordings that could assist in identifying the perpetrator.

Community Response

The event has ignited conversations among EV enthusiasts, with individuals exchanging their experiences and worries on forums such as the BYD EV Owners Australia group on Facebook. There is a unified plea for enhanced security protocols and heightened community awareness to avert similar incidents in the future.

Summary

The damage inflicted on a BYD Atto 3 EV charging cable in Newcastle underscores the difficulties and risks encountered by the increasing population of electric vehicle owners in Australia. With the rise of kerbside charging solutions, it is crucial for communities to back these efforts and safeguard the infrastructure from harmful actions.

Q&A

Where was the act of vandalism committed?

A:

The act of vandalism took place at the Victoria Theatre curbside charging station in Newcastle, situated at 8/10 Perkins St, Newcastle NSW 2300.

Q: What kinds of chargers can be found at this place?

A:

The site is equipped with AC chargers provided by JetCharge, offering 7 kW of power and mounted on light poles. These chargers are integrated into the Chargefox network.

Do individuals have to supply their own charging cables?

A:

Yes, users are required to provide their own Type-2 to Type-2 EV charging cables in order to utilize these kerbside chargers. These cables can be quite costly, sometimes amounting to several hundred dollars.

What could have driven someone to commit this act of vandalism?

A:

The act of vandalism appears to be driven by anti-EV sentiment, as only the charging cable was harmed, leaving the vehicle itself untouched.

Q: In what ways can the community contribute to solving this problem?

A:

The community can assist by reviewing security footage from local businesses or homes and reporting any unusual activities. Enhanced awareness and backing for electric vehicle infrastructure are also essential.

Q: Where can I talk more about this incident?

A:

You can find discussions about this incident in the BYD EV Owners Australia group on Facebook. Group members share their experiences and concerns about owning electric vehicles and the associated challenges.

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Harnessing the Cloud’s Potential: How Fusion5 is Transforming Smooth Migration

Quick Read

• Comprehend your workloads prior to transitioning to the cloud.
• Be mindful of the expenses related to cloud services.
• Equip your team with the essential understanding for cloud governance.
• Select a trustworthy partner for evaluating and overseeing the migration.
• Use infrastructure-as-code for effective administration and security.

There are numerous reasons to move to the cloud, but the method an organization selects to make the transition can greatly impact the outcomes it experiences upon arrival.

Important Factors to Consider for Cloud Migration

According to Kris Jackson, the general manager of cloud infrastructure and security at Fusion5, advantages like lowered expenses, enhanced security, and better governance can be realized, though they are contingent on how well the migration is strategized and performed.

Understanding Workloads

“Firstly, ensure you have a thorough understanding of the workloads in your environment,” Jackson advises. This includes recognizing which applications and data require migration and comprehending their dependencies and performance needs.

Cost Awareness

The second important point is to ensure you understand that every minute a service operates in the cloud incurs charges. Cloud services use a pay-as-you-go model, so inefficiencies can swiftly result in excessive costs if not properly managed.

Team Preparedness

Furthermore, consider whether your business is truly prepared to handle workloads in the cloud. Does your team possess adequate knowledge of cloud concepts and the necessary governance and control measures? It is essential to provide proper training and preparation to your team to avoid mismanagement and ensure smooth operations after migration.

The Significance of a Trustworthy Companion

Jackson underscores the significance of selecting a partner capable of both accurately evaluating and overseeing the migration process, as well as training internal resources. This guarantees that the staff can effectively handle the new environment.

Infrastructure-as-Code

This opens up the possibility to shift from utilizing traditional processes for cloud management to employing machine-readable definition files, a strategy known as infrastructure-as-code. According to Jackson, this method can result in further cost savings through automation of management tasks and enhanced security.

“It’s crucial to comprehend how your team will function in the new setting and which tools they will utilize to take advantage of that automation,” Jackson explains.

Summary

Migrating to the cloud presents various advantages such as lowering expenses, boosting security, and strengthening governance. Nevertheless, comprehending workloads, being mindful of costs, and readying your team are crucial steps for a smooth transition. Collaborating with professionals such as Fusion5 can facilitate the process and secure lasting success by implementing strategies like infrastructure-as-code.

Q: What are the main advantages of transitioning to cloud computing?

A: The main advantages consist of lower expenses, enhanced security, and better governance.

Q: What factors should businesses evaluate prior to moving to the cloud?

Organizations must comprehend their workloads, stay informed about cloud service expenses, and equip their teams with the essential knowledge for effective cloud governance.

Q: Why is selecting a dependable partner for cloud migration so crucial?

A dependable partner can effectively evaluate and oversee the migration process while also training internal staff to maintain seamless operations after the migration.

Q: What does infrastructure-as-code mean?

Infrastructure as Code refers to the practice of using machine-readable definition files to manage cloud environments. This approach enhances cost efficiency and security by leveraging automation.

Q: What strategies can businesses use to control expenses related to cloud services?

A: By recognizing that cloud services incur costs by the minute, businesses can improve their planning and utilize management automation tools to maintain cost control.

Q: In what ways can Fusion5 assist with the process of migrating to the cloud?

Fusion5 can assist by evaluating and overseeing the migration process, training internal teams, and offering expertise in utilizing infrastructure-as-code for effective management and improved security.

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Quick Read

• A US judge threw out the majority of the SEC’s lawsuit against SolarWinds.
• The lawsuit alleged that SolarWinds concealed security vulnerabilities both before and after a significant cyberattack.
• SolarWinds and its Chief Information Security Officer, Timothy Brown, were exonerated regarding statements made after the attack.
• The Sunburst cyberattack breached multiple US government agencies.
• This instance is notable as one of the few where the SEC took legal action against a company for being a victim of a cyberattack, and the case did not conclude with a settlement.

SolarWinds Prevails in Most of the SEC Cyberattack Lawsuit

Judge Rejects the Majority of Claims

US District Judge Paul Engelmayer in Manhattan has thrown out most of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) lawsuit against SolarWinds, a software firm. The lawsuit alleged that SolarWinds misled investors by hiding its security flaws before and after a major cyberattack associated with Russia that targeted the US government.

Post-Attack Claims Refuted

The judge rejected all accusations against both SolarWinds and its chief information security officer, Timothy Brown, related to statements made following the attack. The rejection was based on the reasoning that these accusations were speculative and depended on hindsight.

Initial Assault Claims Partially Resolved

Though many of the SEC’s allegations regarding pre-attack statements were dismissed, the judge permitted securities fraud claims to move forward based on a declaration on SolarWinds’ website that touted the company’s security measures. The SEC chose not to comment on the ruling.

SolarWinds Responds

SolarWinds expressed approval of the decision, describing the outstanding claim against the company as “factually incorrect.” Brown’s attorneys did not promptly respond to requests for comments.

The Sunburst Cyberattack

The Sunburst cyberattack, lasting almost two years, compromised SolarWinds’ main Orion software platform to access multiple US government networks. The breached agencies included the Departments of Commerce, Energy, Homeland Security, State, and Treasury, before the attack was revealed in December 2020. Although the complete impact is still unknown, US officials suspect Russia was behind the attack, an accusation Russia denies.

SEC’s Unusual Move

The case initiated by the SEC last October was noteworthy because it was the first instance where the regulator targeted a company that had fallen victim to a cyberattack without declaring a simultaneous settlement. Additionally, it is unusual for the SEC to file lawsuits against public company executives who are not directly responsible for preparing financial statements.

Legal Views on Cybersecurity Reporting

The SEC accused SolarWinds of understating its cybersecurity weaknesses before the attack and downplaying the impact of the attack afterwards. Moreover, the SEC asserted that SolarWinds hid warnings from customers regarding malicious activities related to Orion. Nonetheless, Judge Engelmayer pointed out that anti-fraud laws do not mandate companies to give excessively detailed risk warnings that could inadvertently assist cyber attackers.

The judge also mentioned that SolarWinds had already admitted it couldn’t stop every cyberattack, highlighting that such events are an unavoidable aspect of the current digital environment.

Summary

In conclusion, SolarWinds has largely overcome the SEC’s lawsuit concerning the Sunburst cyberattack. This outcome underscores key aspects of cybersecurity disclosures and the legal obligations companies face within an increasingly intricate digital landscape.

What was the primary allegation against SolarWinds?

A:

The primary allegation was that SolarWinds deceived investors by hiding its security vulnerabilities both prior to and following the Sunburst cyberattack.

Who rejected the majority of the allegations in the legal case?

A:

US District Judge Paul Engelmayer in Manhattan threw out the majority of the allegations in the lawsuit.

Q: What made the SEC’s case against SolarWinds stand out?

A:

This case was notable as it was the first instance in which the SEC pursued a company that had suffered a cyberattack without simultaneously announcing a settlement. Additionally, it is uncommon for public company executives who are not directly tied to financial reporting to face lawsuits from the SEC.

Q: What were some of the impacts resulting from the Sunburst cyberattack?

A:

The Sunburst cyberattack infiltrated multiple US government agencies such as the Departments of Commerce, Energy, Homeland Security, State, and Treasury. The extent of the damage is still unclear, but there are suggestions that Russia was probably behind the attack.

Q: What was Judge Engelmayer’s comment regarding risk warnings?

A:

Judge Engelmayer observed that anti-fraud regulations do not necessitate excessively detailed risk warnings, as doing so might inadvertently provide cyber attackers with exploitable information. He further noted that SolarWinds had already conceded it could not thwart every cyberattack.

Q: What actions did SolarWinds take following the judge’s ruling?

A:

SolarWinds was pleased with the judge’s ruling and mentioned that the remaining allegation against them was “not based on factual evidence.”

What implications does this case have for other companies concerning cybersecurity disclosures?

A:

This situation highlights the critical need to strike a balance between transparency and practical challenges in cybersecurity disclosures. Businesses must maneuver through intricate legal environments while recognizing their constraints in thwarting all potential cyber threats.