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Optus Triple Zero Disruption “Improbable” Factor in Infant’s Heartbreaking Demise


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Optus Triple Zero Disruption: Devastating Consequences and Ongoing Probes

Quick Overview

  • An Optus network malfunction is unlikely linked to the death of an infant in South Australia.
  • The family was impacted by the disruption, yet they managed to successfully call 000 using a different phone.
  • The State Coroner will carry out a comprehensive inquiry to ascertain if an inquest is warranted.
  • Another death associated with the outage is still being investigated in depth.
  • The disruption occurred due to a firewall upgrade, which halted Triple Zero for 13 hours.

Impact of Optus Disruption on Emergency Services

An Optus network disruption that rendered Triple Zero calls unavailable for approximately 13 hours has raised serious concerns nationwide. Initial inquiries by SA Police indicate that this incident is unlikely to have played a direct role in the heartbreaking death of an eight-week-old infant in South Australia. The child’s grandmother, upon realizing her grandson was not breathing, initially struggled to connect to 000. However, she successfully dialed using another mobile phone available in the home.

Impact of Optus network failure on emergency services

Investigation by the State Coroner

Although the initial call attempt did not succeed, investigations suggest that the child’s death was not a result of any delay by the SA Ambulance Service. The inquiry has been referred to the State Coroner, who will determine if an inquest is necessary. This accountability is vital considering public interest and the possible ramifications for emergency service practices.

Current Investigations of Related Deaths

The ramifications of the Optus disruption extend beyond this singular incident. Another fatality in the state is being examined, with investigators looking into how the interruption of the 000 service may have influenced the situation. This case is deemed more intricate and remains under the spotlight for law enforcement and emergency responders.

Technical Reasons Behind the Outage

The disruption, which temporarily ceased the Triple Zero emergency service, stemmed from a firewall upgrade executed by Optus. This technical error left Australians without emergency service access for a crucial 13-hour interval, raising major concerns about the stability of telecommunications systems.

Conclusion

The Optus network disruption has exposed weaknesses in accessing emergency services during technical failures. While preliminary investigations indicate the outage did not directly contribute to the death of a baby in South Australia, the effects of such interruptions remain under examination. The ongoing inquiries are critical for enhancing future emergency service dependability nationwide.

Q: What triggered the Optus Triple Zero disruption?

A: The disruption was initiated by a firewall upgrade that unintentionally rendered the Triple Zero emergency calling service inoperative for approximately 13 hours.

Q: Did the Optus disruption cause the infant’s death in South Australia?

A: Initial investigations by SA Police suggest it is improbable that the disruption had a direct impact on the child’s death, as another phone was successfully used to make a 000 call.

Q: What is the State Coroner’s involvement in this matter?

A: The State Coroner will perform a thorough investigation to establish if an inquest is required to further explore the circumstances surrounding the child’s death.

Q: Are there additional cases connected to the Optus disruption?

A: Yes, another fatality in South Australia is currently under investigation to understand the outage’s effect, and it is regarded as more complex than the previous case.

Q: How has the public responded to the Optus outage?

A: The disruption has incited considerable public concern and examination of telecommunications providers’ capability to ensure uninterrupted access to emergency services.

Q: What steps are being taken to avert future outages?

A: It is anticipated that both investigations and public pressure will lead to improved protocols and technological safeguards to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Optus Firewall Enhancement Results in 13-Hour Triple Zero Disruption


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  • Optus faced a 13-hour interruption of Triple Zero services due to a firewall enhancement.
  • The interruption stemmed from a misconfigured firewall, which went unnoticed initially.
  • Optus did not recognize the problem until later, owing to insufficient alarms and monitoring.
  • Federal communications minister Anika Wells reprimanded Optus for slow communication.
  • Optus intends to perform an internal review and appoint an independent monitor.
  • The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) will likewise conduct an investigation.

Optus Firewall Enhancement Results in Triple Zero Disruption

Optus firewall enhancement behind 13-hour Triple Zero disruption

Firewall Misconfiguration: The Core Issue

Optus CEO Stephen Rue confirmed that a standard firewall enhancement at 12.30am resulted in a 13-hour failure of Triple Zero calls. The problem was linked to a misconfiguration of the firewall, which wasn’t identified by their telemetry systems. Rue mentioned that while typical call volumes remained unaffected, the monitoring of emergency calls was not included in the system checks.

Delayed Reaction: Need for Enhancements

The telecommunications company became aware of the problem only after customer reports emerged, and it took 13 hours for Optus to fully grasp the extent of the outage. After receiving customer feedback, Optus reverted the firewall updates and reinstated services. Rue acknowledged that the management of initial reports fell short of expectations, and the delay in escalating these reports represented a major oversight.

Government Response and Responsibility

Federal communications minister Anika Wells criticized Optus for the sluggish notification process, highlighting that both federal and state governments were alerted late. She stressed the necessity for Optus to investigate why alarms and testing mechanisms failed to identify the outage swiftly. Optus has accepted full accountability and is initiating an internal review, while external probes by ACMA and other entities are expected.

Future Outlook: Preventative Strategies

In light of the incident, Optus plans to designate an independent monitor to analyze the outage and guarantee that similar problems are avoided in the future. The telecommunications company also seeks to act on recommendations from the prior 2023 incident to enhance communication for public and emergency services during outages.

Summary

Optus endured a major interruption of its Triple Zero service due to a misconfigured firewall during a standard upgrade. The company’s slow response and absence of prompt communication have attracted criticism from government officials. Optus is initiating an internal review and cooperating with external investigations to enhance its emergency call management systems.

Q: What triggered the Optus outage?

A: The outage was triggered by a firewall misconfiguration during a standard upgrade.

Q: What was the duration of the Triple Zero service outage?

A: The outage persisted for 13 hours before being resolved.

Q: What caused the delay in Optus’s response to the outage?

A: The delay occurred due to a lack of alarms and monitoring for emergency call failures, resulting in a sluggish response to identifying and rectifying the issue.

Q: What measures is Optus implementing after the incident?

A: Optus is conducting an internal review, designating an independent monitor, and cooperating with external investigations to avert future incidents.

Q: How has the government reacted to the outage?

A: The federal communications minister criticized Optus for the slow communication and urged improvements in their emergency call management systems.

Q: Are there ongoing investigations?

A: Yes, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) and potentially other state agencies are investigating the matter.

Tesla FSD in Australia: An Impressive Preview of Tomorrow’s Driving


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Tesla FSD in Australia: Future of Driving

Brief Overview

  • Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology has arrived in Australia, showcasing a vision for the future of self-driving vehicles.
  • The rollout of FSD (Supervised) represents a major milestone for local Tesla enthusiasts.
  • There is currently no need for regulatory approval for the FSD (Supervised) feature set in Australia.
  • An Australia-wide framework for autonomous vehicles is projected to be established by late 2026.
  • Tesla FSD (Supervised) offers a driving experience akin to that of a human, effectively managing intricate situations.
  • This technology is poised to revolutionize transportation and lower expenses once FSD (unsupervised) is released.
  • The public introduction of FSD (Supervised) is anticipated shortly, with a current price tag of A$10,100.

Tesla’s FSD Launch in Australia

Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) software has at long last reached Australia, signifying a crucial moment for the local Tesla community. Following years of expectation, Tesla owners in Australia can now take advantage of the sophisticated functionalities of FSD (Supervised), a technology set to transform the driving landscape.

Regulatory Context

Although the launch of FSD (Supervised) is a noteworthy achievement, it functions without needing regulatory approval in its present configuration. However, for the introduction of FSD (unsupervised) as part of their robotaxi service, regulatory endorsement will be necessary. The National Transport Commission (NTC) is striving to synchronize autonomous vehicle regulations among states, with a framework anticipated by the end of 2026.

Enhanced Driving Features

The FSD (Supervised) software marks significant progress in automotive advancements, exceeding traditional driver assistance mechanisms like Tesla’s Autopilot. It utilizes a comprehensive strategy with eight cameras to observe the environment, delivering a human-like driving encounter. The system effectively navigates intricate driving challenges with impressive accuracy, although driver oversight remains a requirement.

Potential for Change

FSD (Supervised) has the potential to alter transportation within Australia. It provides mobility alternatives for individuals at the conclusion of their driving journey and could greatly lower transportation costs by removing drivers in forthcoming robotaxi services. The system’s capacity to manage routine journeys without intervention raises considerations regarding the necessity of human drivers.

Deployment Schedule

In spite of the remarkable capabilities of FSD (Supervised), the public launch is still awaited. Tesla intends to extend the deployment once a new version is prepared. Anticipation is high among Australian Tesla owners who have been eagerly awaiting this technology.

Cost and Accessibility

Tesla’s FSD is listed at A$10,100. It can be acquired at the point of sale or added subsequently, based on the vehicle’s specifications. Tesla is dedicated to retrofitting older models, ensuring that more owners can enjoy the advantages of FSD in the future.

Conclusion

Tesla’s FSD (Supervised) in Australia presents an exciting preview of the future of self-driving vehicles. Despite regulatory obstacles, the technology is poised to revolutionize transportation and offer an unparalleled driving experience. As the deployment progresses, an increasing number of Australians will have the chance to experience this innovative technology.

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

A:

Tesla’s FSD (Supervised) is an advanced driver assistance system providing a human-like driving experience, enabling the vehicle to perform complex driving maneuvers while still requiring driver supervision.

Q: Is regulatory approval required for FSD (Supervised) in Australia?

A:

No, the current functionality of FSD (Supervised) does not necessitate regulatory approval in Australia, but FSD (unsupervised) will require regulatory approvals for operation.

Q: In what ways is FSD (Supervised) different from Tesla’s Autopilot?

A:

FSD (Supervised) surpasses Tesla’s Autopilot by providing enhanced capabilities, such as maneuvering through complex scenarios and functioning on unmarked streets, resulting in a more human-like driving encounter.

Q: What is the anticipated pricing for Tesla’s FSD in Australia?

A:

The FSD software is priced at A$10,100, available either during the purchase of the vehicle or as an upgrade later.

Q: When will FSD (Supervised) be readily accessible in Australia?

A:

The public launch of FSD (Supervised) in Australia is expected to happen soon, contingent on finalizing a new software build.

Q: Can FSD (Supervised) function without driver oversight?

A:

At this time, FSD (Supervised) requires driver oversight. The unsupervised variant is still under testing and will need regulatory approval prior to its release.

Tesla’s Full Self-Driving Launches on Australian Roads Today for HW4 Vehicles with A$149/Month Subscription Availability


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Quick Overview

  • Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (Supervised) is now accessible in Australia and New Zealand.
  • Compatible with Model 3 and Model Y vehicles featuring HW4.
  • OTA software upgrade is priced at A$10,100 or A$149/month subscription fee.
  • FSD (Supervised) necessitates active driver oversight and is not entirely autonomous.
  • The subscription model provides flexibility for users who may find the upfront cost challenging.
  • Improper use may result in temporary suspension of FSD functionalities.

Tesla’s Pioneering Move in Australia

Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (Supervised) has been officially launched in Australia and New Zealand, delivering a transformative driving experience for Model 3 and Model Y owners with HW4 hardware. This is a major achievement, making Australia the inaugural right-hand drive market to access this innovative technology.

Tesla's Full Self-Driving Launches on Australian Roads Today for HW4 Vehicles with A$149 Monthly Subscription Option

Enhanced Features and Functions

The Full Self-Driving (Supervised) feature upgrades Tesla’s current Autopilot by facilitating automatic signaling, navigating city turns, managing complex roundabouts, and operating on unmarked roads. The system employs Tesla Vision, utilizing a cutting-edge array of cameras and neural network processing to make driving safer and less stressful.

Launch Information

After a media unveiling, FSD (Supervised) can be obtained as a paid OTA software upgrade. Eligible Tesla owners can activate the feature through a WiFi-accessible update. Though the specific build version for customer vehicles is not confirmed, Tesla assures a smooth experience for those with Full Self-Driving Capability.

Cost and Subscription Option

FSD (Supervised) can be acquired outright for A$10,100, but Tesla has rolled out a more budget-friendly subscription model at A$149 per month. This adaptable option allows users to subscribe to FSD on a month-by-month basis, appealing to those who may only require it occasionally, such as when traveling.

Usage Guidelines and Suspension

Drivers should be aware that FSD (Supervised) is not entirely autonomous and requires ongoing supervision. Misuse, such as lack of attention, can result in temporary suspension after five “strikes.” The in-cabin camera tracks driver attentiveness to ensure safety and adherence to Tesla’s regulations.

Overall Effect

This announcement is groundbreaking for Australian Tesla owners who have eagerly anticipated this technology. While not flawless, it signifies a noteworthy step forward in driver assistance, enhancing the driving experience and road safety. Tesla’s dedication to innovation continues to establish new benchmarks in the automotive sector.

Recap

Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (Supervised) has landed in Australia and New Zealand, providing sophisticated driver assistance functionalities for Model 3 and Model Y owners. With adaptable pricing structures and a focus on safety, it represents a crucial advance in automotive technology, even though it requires active supervision from drivers.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (Supervised) feature?

A: It is an advanced driver assistance system that enhances Tesla’s Autopilot with features like automatic signaling, cornering, and navigation on unmarked roads, necessitating active driver supervision.

Q: Which Tesla models in Australia are eligible for FSD (Supervised)?

A: It is available for Model 3 and Model Y vehicles equipped with HW4 hardware.

Q: What is the cost to subscribe to FSD (Supervised)?

A: The subscription costs A$149 per month, providing a flexible alternative to the A$10,100 outright purchase.

Q: Does FSD (Supervised) make Tesla vehicles completely autonomous?

A: No, it requires active driver oversight and does not render the vehicle fully autonomous.

Q: What occurs if a driver misuses FSD (Supervised)?

A: Improper use may lead to temporary suspension of the feature, with the in-cabin camera tracking driver attentiveness.

Q: Can current Tesla owners upgrade to FSD (Supervised)?

A: Yes, eligible vehicle owners can upgrade through an over-the-air update if they have purchased Full Self-Driving Capability.

Optus Service Interruption Affects Emergency Triple Zero Calls Nationwide in Australia


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Brief Overview

  • Optus network outage affected emergency Triple Zero calls in South Australia, Northern Territory, and Western Australia.
  • Around 600 customers were impacted, and three fatalities are associated with the event.
  • Optus is performing welfare checks and has initiated an investigation.
  • Optus CEO Stephen Rue has issued an apology for the outage.
  • Authorities are conducting investigations and a report will be compiled for the State Coroner.
  • ACCAN advocates for enhanced reliability in emergency calling systems.

Impact of Optus Network Outage on Emergency Services

An unforeseen network outage from Optus has significantly hindered its capacity to handle Triple Zero calls in South Australia, Northern Territory, and Western Australia. The event, which transpired during a network upgrade, affected around 600 customers and has sadly been connected to three deaths. This unfortunate incident emphasizes the essential need for dependable emergency services.

Optus network problem affects emergency calls

Welfare Checks by Optus

In the aftermath of the outage, Optus has commenced welfare checks on households that tried to make calls during the incident. To date, three cases have been reported where individuals tragically lost their lives. These welfare checks are ongoing as Optus seeks to understand the full scope of the impact.

Apology from the CEO and Investigation Commitment

Optus CEO Stephen Rue conveyed sincere regret over the incident, mentioning that the company is conducting an urgent investigation to reveal the truth. Rue offered a sincere apology to the customers affected and expressed condolences to the families who suffered losses, characterizing the event as utterly unacceptable.

Investigations by Authorities

Authorities, including SA Police, are carrying out their own investigations into the incident. A report is anticipated to be compiled for the State Coroner to determine the circumstances surrounding the fatalities in South Australia due to the outage.

Repeated Failures and Consequences

This incident represents the latest in a succession of failures by telecommunications companies in Australia regarding the handling of emergency calls. Previously, Optus and its subsidiaries encountered a $12 million fine for similar issues, while Telstra was penalized with a $3 million fine for a Triple Zero outage. Customers of TPG Telecom also experienced temporary disconnections during a network decommissioning.

ACCAN’s Call for Improvement

The Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) has labeled the situation a tragedy, underscoring the vital necessity for dependable emergency services access. ACCAN CEO Carol Bennett expressed dismay over recurring failures, advocating for enhancements to ensure that Australians can rely on their calls to Triple Zero to connect reliably.

Conclusion

The Optus network incident highlights the crucial requirement for consistent emergency service connectivity, with tragic repercussions stemming from the outage. Both Optus and the relevant authorities are actively probing the situation, while consumer advocates are pushing for better safeguards to avert future occurrences.

Q: What triggered the Optus outage?

A: The outage was caused by a network failure during an upgrade, affecting the ability to make emergency calls.

Q: How many customers experienced the impact?

A: Approximately 600 customers in South Australia, Northern Territory, and Western Australia faced difficulties connecting to Triple Zero services.

Q: What steps is Optus taking in response?

A: Optus is performing welfare checks on the impacted households and has started an investigation into the occurrence.

Q: Has a similar incident occurred previously?

A: Yes, there have been prior incidents where Optus and other telcos failed to connect emergency calls, leading to penalties.

Q: What actions are the authorities taking?

A: SA Police and other relevant authorities are conducting investigations and will prepare a report for the State Coroner.

Q: What has been ACCAN’s response to the incident?

A: ACCAN has referred to the incident as a tragedy and emphasized the necessity for reliable emergency service access.

Q: What penalties have been previously imposed on telcos for similar incidents?

A: Optus has been fined $12 million, and Telstra was fined $3 million for failures related to Triple Zero calls.

Nvidia Allocates Funds to Intel to Enhance US Chip Manufacturing


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Brief Overview

  • Nvidia commits $5 billion to Intel, acquiring shares at $23.28 each.
  • This investment supports US initiatives that promote domestic manufacturing.
  • Nvidia seeks to trial local chip manufacturing to lessen dependence on Taiwan.
  • Collaborative efforts are set to boost AI processing efficiency.
  • Intel will create custom x86 CPUs tailored for Nvidia’s AI platforms.
  • Australian cloud providers may find advantages in their AI operations.
  • New Intel SoCs will incorporate Nvidia RTX GPU chiplets for high-performance PCs.

The Tactical Investment

Nvidia’s declaration of a $5 billion investment in Intel has sent shockwaves through the technology sector. This decision arrives as Intel grapples with the transition from CPUs to GPUs in the era driven by AI. Although CPUs retain their significance, GPUs are becoming increasingly vital for high-performance tasks such as gaming, video production, and 3D modeling.

The Rising Importance of AI

The emergence of Artificial Intelligence, notably through Large Language Models (LLMs), has transformed computational capabilities, aligning primarily with GPUs. Nvidia’s investment reflects their strategic shift towards securing their future in light of the diminishing importance of CPUs.

Supporting US Strategies

The US government has actively encouraged companies to invest within the country. Nvidia’s stake in Intel resonates with this initiative, aiming to strengthen local chip manufacturing. This strategy could reduce risks related to potential import tariffs from Taiwan, where Nvidia predominantly sources its chips through Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC).

Effortless Technology Integration

Nvidia’s AI advancements will blend with Intel’s x86 CPUs through the NVLink interconnect, promising to amplify efficiency in AI processing. This alliance illustrates how competitors can unite to lead in emerging computing developments.

Effects on Data Centers

Intel intends to produce specialized x86 CPUs fine-tuned for Nvidia’s AI operations, boosting performance within extensive cloud setups. This may support Australian cloud providers by enhancing AI training efficiency and lowering energy expenditures.

Transformation in Personal Computing

In the realm of PCs, Intel is crafting x86 SoCs that integrate Nvidia’s RTX GPU chiplets, facilitating high-performing graphics and AI capabilities in smaller devices. This convergence holds the promise of laptops and desktops with superior power and efficiency.

Nvidia and Intel partnership to enhance US chip manufacturing

Conclusion

Nvidia’s significant investment in Intel represents a major transformation in the tech environment, highlighting the increasing significance of AI and GPUs. This collaboration aims to bolster chip manufacturing in the US, potentially benefiting multiple industries, including Australian cloud services and personal computing.

Q: Why is Nvidia investing in Intel?

A: Nvidia’s investment seeks to investigate local chip manufacturing in the US, in line with domestic production policies while decreasing reliance on Taiwan.

Q: How will this collaboration affect AI processing?

A: The partnership will fuse Nvidia’s AI capabilities with Intel’s CPUs, enhancing AI processing efficiency and overall performance.

Q: What advantages do Australian cloud providers gain?

A: The partnership may improve AI training efficiency and reduce energy costs for Australian cloud providers by utilizing optimized Intel CPUs.

Q: What shifts should we anticipate in personal computing?

A: Intel’s new SoCs featuring embedded Nvidia RTX GPU chiplets will enable advanced graphics and AI functionalities in smaller and more energy-efficient devices.

Q: How does this investment conform to US policies?

A: Nvidia’s investment reinforces US policies by advancing domestic manufacturing and curtailing dependence on foreign chip production, especially from Taiwan.

Q: What potential effects does this have on Nvidia’s production strategy?

A: The investment acts as a trial for local production, potentially reducing the risks linked to international tariffs and strengthening supply chain stability.

Ramsay Health Care Embraces New Technology Leadership Commencing November


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New Tech Leadership Announced by Ramsay Health Care

Brief Overview

  • Ramsay Health Care appoints Dr John Doulis as the new executive leader for technology and digital.
  • Dr Rachna Gandhi exits after a four-year role as the chief transformation, digital, data, and AI officer.
  • Dr Doulis previously worked with HCA Healthcare’s digital transformation group in the United States.
  • Ramsay seeks to improve patient care through cutting-edge digital initiatives.
  • Dr Brindan Suresh, the existing chief health and strategy officer, will take over transformation responsibilities.

New Leadership at Ramsay Health Care

Ramsay Health Care under new technology leadership starting November

Ramsay Health Care, a publicly listed entity on the ASX providing hospitals and health services, has declared a notable shift in its technology and digital leadership, designating Dr John Doulis as the new group executive. This was communicated through a post on LinkedIn.

Dr John Doulis: An Established Leader in Digital Transformation

Dr Doulis comes with extensive experience from his former position as vice president and noted architect in HCA Healthcare’s digital transformation and innovation team. HCA Healthcare is a prominent operator of hospitals and clinics in the U.S., and Doulis’ knowledge is anticipated to advance Ramsay Health Care’s digital approach.

Commitment to Innovation and Patient Care

Ramsay Health Care intends to utilize Doulis’ international expertise to propel its digital and technological strategy, enhancing support for clinical teams and improving patient services. The organization is dedicated to supplying the tools and technologies needed for premium care delivery.

Leadership Role Transition

The exit of Dr Rachna Gandhi signifies the conclusion of her four-year role as group chief transformation, digital, data, and AI officer. Her duties have been largely reassigned to Dr Brindan Suresh, who is the existing chief health and strategy officer. How AI responsibilities will be administered under the new leadership remains to be clarified.

Conclusion

Ramsay Health Care is embarking on a new journey of technological progress with Dr John Doulis taking charge. His appointment is set to infuse new perspectives and foster innovation in digital health strategies, underlining Ramsay’s continuous dedication to enhancing patient care and clinical support through advanced technology.

Q: Who has been appointed as the new leader in technology and digital at Ramsay Health Care?

A: Dr John Doulis has been appointed as the new group executive for technology and digital at Ramsay Health Care.

Q: What position did Dr John Doulis hold before?

A: Dr John Doulis previously served as the vice president and distinguished architect in HCA Healthcare’s digital transformation and innovation team.

Q: What are some responsibilities Dr John Doulis will undertake?

A: Dr Doulis will oversee Ramsay Health Care’s strategy in digital and technology, concentrating on innovation to aid clinical teams and improve patient care.

Q: Who is Dr Brindan Suresh?

A: Dr Brindan Suresh is the chief health and strategy officer at Ramsay Health Care, who has taken on some of the transformation duties previously managed by Dr Rachna Gandhi.

Q: What significant recognition did Dr Rachna Gandhi receive prior to her exit?

A: Dr Rachna Gandhi was given the health technology leader of the year award at this year’s TechBest Benchmark Awards.

ESO’s Newest Update Allows You to Traverse Water on Your Mount


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Latest Update for ESO: Navigate Water on Your Mount

Quick Overview

  • Update 47 for ESO features mount swimming, a highly sought-after functionality.
  • The Feast of Shadows dungeon pack introduces two new dungeons: Black Gem Foundry and Naj-Caldeesh.
  • Quality-of-life enhancements comprise stackable survey reports and better compass features.
  • Both Update 47 and the Feast of Shadows are available on PC, Mac, PlayStation, and Xbox.
  • This dungeon pack is part of the 2025 Content Pass and sets the stage for the Writhing Wall Event.

Base Game Update

The Elder Scrolls Online’s Update 47 is live across all platforms at no extra cost to players. This update is filled with features designed to enhance game functionality. The most notable addition is mount swimming, which enables players to navigate through water without needing to dismount.

Additional features include stackable survey reports for easier inventory management, the capability to replay quest dialogues, and enhancements to the in-game compass for improved navigation. The compass now correctly indicates distances to landmarks on the map, aiding players in their strategic planning.

Feature of mount swimming in ESO Update 47

To update, just launch your Elder Scrolls Online launcher, and the new patch will be applied automatically.

Feast of Shadows Dungeon Pack

Included in the 2025 Content Pass, the Feast of Shadows dungeon pack continues the Seasons of the Worm Cult storyline. It brings forth two new four-player dungeons: Black Gem Foundry and Naj-Caldeesh. Players can anticipate challenging PvE scenarios, fresh boss encounters, and plentiful loot while facing necromancers and their soul-harvesting plots on Solstice Island.

These dungeons pave the way for the upcoming Writhing Wall Event, expected to impact the game world later in 2025. The Feast of Shadows is available on all platforms and can be accessed via ESO Plus, the 2025 Content Pass, or the Premium Edition. Players can acquire these upgrades directly from the official ESO website.

Conclusion

The latest update for The Elder Scrolls Online introduces meaningful gameplay improvements and fresh content. With features like mount swimming and new dungeons, players have plenty to discover in the vast world of ESO.

Q&A

Q: On which platforms is Update 47 available?

A: Update 47 is accessible on PC, Mac, PlayStation, and Xbox.

Q: What does the Feast of Shadows entail?

A: The Feast of Shadows is a dungeon pack that introduces two new dungeons and is included in the 2025 Content Pass.

Q: How can I access the new dungeons?

A: The dungeons are part of ESO Plus, the 2025 Content Pass, or the Premium Edition, which are all available on the ESO website.

Q: What quality-of-life enhancements does Update 47 include?

A: Update 47 features mount swimming, stackable survey reports, and an upgraded compass for navigation.

Actor Authentication Tokens Provided Worldwide Admin Access Throughout Azure Entra ID Tenants


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Severe Azure Entra ID Flaw Uncovered

Brief Overview

  • A severe flaw in Microsoft Entra ID was uncovered, impacting global admin access throughout Azure tenants.
  • The issue related to the handling of legacy authentication tokens and was resolved by Microsoft.
  • Actor tokens enabled cross-tenant access, circumventing security protocols like Conditional Access.
  • The outdated Azure AD Graph API’s interface lacked adequate validation and logging for audits.
  • This vulnerability could spread across organizations due to Azure B2B guest accounts.

Unveiling a Severe Vulnerability

A researcher from the Netherlands, Dirk-jan Mollema, disclosed a serious flaw in Microsoft Entra ID, potentially granting attackers the ability to compromise global admin access across all Azure tenants globally. This discovery represents a pivotal moment in cybersecurity, emphasizing the threats related to legacy authentication token handling.

Grasping the Vulnerability

The vulnerability, identified by Mollema in July 2023, consisted of undocumented impersonation tokens and a defect in the Azure Active Directory Graph API. These tokens, essential for communication among backend services, evaded security protocols like Conditional Access, leading to possible exploitation.

Azure Entra ID flaw with global admin access

Effects on Global Admins and Organizations

This flaw allowed attackers to authenticate as any user, including Global Admins, across various tenants. Such superuser accounts are vital for managing Entra ID tenants, and their compromise could result in severe security breaches, including the establishment of new identities and permissions.

The outdated Azure AD Graph API lacked thorough audit logging, complicating administrators’ efforts to identify suspicious activities. This vulnerability broadened access to Microsoft 365 and Azure, creating further security risks.

Risk of Propagation and Organizational Trust

The potential for widespread propagation of the vulnerability was concerning. Organizations employing Azure business-to-business guest accounts could inadvertently enable cross-tenant attacks, as attackers could mimic guest users in their native tenants.

“The information necessary to compromise most tenants worldwide could have been collected in a matter of minutes using a single Actor token,” Mollema remarked.

Conclusion

The identification of this critical vulnerability highlights the necessity for strong security protocols and frequent audits of legacy systems. Although Microsoft has rectified the problem, this event serves as a clear reminder of the constantly changing landscape of cybersecurity threats.

Questions & Answers

Q: What was the main problem with the vulnerability?

A: The issue arose from flaws in handling legacy authentication tokens, permitting cross-tenant access without appropriate validation.

Q: How did Microsoft address the vulnerability?

A: Microsoft implemented a patch to rectify the vulnerability, resolving issues related to legacy tokens and the Azure AD Graph API to avert further exploitation.

Q: What dangers did the vulnerability pose to organizations?

A: It posed threats of unauthorized access to global admin accounts, potential data breaches, and the risk of undermining organizational trust relationships.

Q: What steps can organizations take to safeguard against similar vulnerabilities in the future?

A: Organizations should consistently update their systems, perform security audits, and reduce reliance on legacy interfaces to lessen vulnerability exposure.

Gavin Verhey to Captivate PAX Aus 2025 with Storytime Enchantment


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Fast Facts

  • Gavin Verhey, Principal Designer for Magic: The Gathering, revealed as the Storytime keynote speaker for PAX Aus 2025.
  • Featured guests include RPG icon Josh Sawyer and Ubisoft Montreal’s Joshua Mills.
  • Expo Hall will host exhibitors such as Xbox, Nintendo, Devolver Digital, and more.
  • Saturday tickets are gone; Friday and Sunday tickets remain for purchase.

Gavin Verhey Coming to Australia

Gavin Verhey, the Principal Designer for Magic: The Gathering, is poised to captivate audiences at PAX Aus 2025 as the Storytime keynote speaker. Celebrated for his contributions to beloved sets like Battlebond, Commander Legends, and the Magic: The Gathering FINAL FANTASY collaboration, Gavin has been a key figure in the gaming world since he was 11 years old. His enthusiasm for gaming and community involvement ensures his appearance is a can’t-miss event for fans.

Gavin Verhey Announced as Keynote Speaker for PAX Aus 2025

PAX Aus Special Guest Lineup

Alongside Gavin Verhey, PAX Aus 2025 will showcase prominent figures such as RPG legend Josh Sawyer, famed for his contributions to Fallout: New Vegas and Pillars of Eternity. Ubisoft Montreal’s Joshua Mills, Game Director of Rainbow Six Siege, will also be part of the event, sharing insights into tactical shooter development.

Additional guests include Lis Moberly from Disney’s 20th Century Games, and tabletop creators Good Games Morley, who are set to deliver a thrilling Magic: The Gathering showdown. The event will also feature Jenny Windom, founder of Geeks & Grounds, recognized for her support of inclusive gaming.

Major Names Attending PAX Aus Expo Hall

The Expo Hall at PAX Aus promises to be a paradise for gaming fans, with exhibitors such as Xbox, Nintendo, Bethesda, and Crunchyroll confirmed. Visitors can eagerly anticipate experiencing the new ROG Xbox Ally range and discovering various gaming and pop culture displays. For a full list of exhibitors, check out the PAX Aus website.

Get Your Tickets Today

With PAX Aus just four weeks away, Saturday tickets are already sold out. Nevertheless, tickets for Friday and Sunday remain. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of an exhilarating event. Buy your tickets here before it’s too late.

Overview

PAX Aus 2025 is gearing up to be an exceptional event with a remarkable lineup of speakers, exhibitors, and activities. Gavin Verhey’s keynote address is merely one of the many highlights in this celebration of gaming culture. With a varied collection of guests and exhibitors, the event guarantees something for every gaming enthusiast. Be sure to secure your tickets quickly to ensure you don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience.

Q&A

Q: Who is Gavin Verhey?

A: Gavin Verhey is the Principal Designer for Magic: The Gathering, celebrated for his work on popular card sets and his involvement in the gaming community.

Q: What other distinguished guests will be at PAX Aus 2025?

A: Other prominent guests include Josh Sawyer, Joshua Mills, Lis Moberly, and Jenny Windom, among others.

Q: What can attendees anticipate at the Expo Hall?

A: The Expo Hall will feature exhibitors like Xbox, Nintendo, Bethesda, and more, presenting the latest in gaming and pop culture.

Q: Are there still tickets available for PAX Aus 2025?

A: Yes, tickets for Friday and Sunday are still available, but Saturday tickets are sold out.