Operation WordDrone: Taiwan’s drone makers hit by sophisticated cyberattack
A disturbing new cyber campaign uncovered by Acronis, dubbed Operation WordDrone, has been targeting Taiwan’s rapidly growing drone industry. Hackers have leveraged an ancient vulnerability in Microsoft Word 2010, using it to launch a complex and persistent malware attack on drone manufacturers.
This sophisticated attack utilized a dynamic-link library (DLL) side-loading technique, exploiting Word to load malicious code. Once inside, the attackers installed a backdoor, allowing them to steal credentials, move laterally across networks, and execute remote commands. The malware, hidden behind a legitimate Word 2010 installation, was able to evade traditional antivirus software, making detection difficult.
Juno Tab 3 Linux tablet is an open-source Microsoft Surface Pro alternative
Juno Computers has introduced its latest Linux-powered tablet, the Juno Tab 3, offering users the choice of three pre-installed operating systems: Mobian Phosh, Ubuntu 24.04, or Kubuntu 24.04. This flexibility gives Linux enthusiasts a tailored experience, whether they prefer the GNOME-based Ubuntu, the KDE-powered Kubuntu, or the mobile-optimized Mobian Phosh. Is this the Surface Pro-like device Linux users have been dreaming of?
Weighing just 1.74 lbs (0.79 kg) for the tablet alone and 2.33 lbs (1.06 kg) with the keyboard, the Juno Tab 3 is a portable solution aimed at those seeking an alternative to mainstream tablets running proprietary operating systems.
SMBs IT challenges: The quest for data-centric talent
Decision-makers are increasingly relying on data analytics to inform everything from market strategies to operational efficiencies. S&P Market Intelligence 451 Research’s global survey of 2,362 executives working at small- to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) cites a greater appreciation for the value of data among organizations that have historically tended not to invest as heavily in tools and platforms that maximize the business value of the data collected.
And while large enterprises continue to invest in technology and staff to glean data findings, small- to medium-sized businesses can struggle to extract the full value from their data investments. The root of this issue often lies in the composition of their IT teams. small- to medium-sized businesses frequently employ IT generalists who, while skilled in various aspects of technology, may lack the deep expertise required to manage data effectively. This gap in specialized knowledge can prevent businesses from fully leveraging their data assets.
Sony reveals PlayStation 5 Pro with enhanced performance and 2TB SSD
Sony has announced the PlayStation 5 Pro, its latest console upgrade designed to deliver higher fidelity graphics, smoother frame rates, and faster gameplay. The PS5 Pro builds on the PlayStation 5, offering several performance enhancements aimed at both gamers and developers.
The PS5 Pro features a GPU with 67 percent more Compute Units and 28 percent faster memory than the standard PS5, providing up to 45 percent faster rendering for smoother gameplay. It also includes advanced ray tracing capabilities, improving reflections and refractions by casting rays at up to three times the speed of the original model. The console introduces PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-driven upscaling technology designed to enhance image clarity by adding additional detail.
Only 37 percent of organizations are prepared for AI
A new survey finds that while 94 percent of business leaders say AI is a top C-suite priority and 91 percent agree it provides a competitive advantage, only 37 percent are fully prepared to implement AI projects now.
The study from Riverbed of 1,200 decision makers globally finds that currently 54 percent of leaders say the primary reason for using AI is to drive operational efficiencies over growth (46 percent), however, by 2027 58 percent of organizations expect AI will primarily be a growth driver.
Parallels Desktop 20 offers free AI-ready virtual machines for seamless experimentation and deployment of AI tools
Alludo has announced the release of Parallels Desktop 20.0 for Mac. Available in Standard, Pro, Business and -- new to version 20 -- Enterprise editions, the virtualization software makes it easy for Mac users to run Windows, macOS and Linux virtual machines on their desktop.
Version 20’s headline new feature is the Parallels AI Package add-on for Business, Enterprise and -- until the end of the year -- Pro users running Macs with Silicon hardware. This provides access to AI-ready virtual machines to aid in development.
Remote access tools leave OT systems at risk of attack
Remote access tools are creating cybersecurity risks and operational burdens for operational technology (OT) systems, according to a new report.
The study, from the Claroty Team82 threat research team, using data from more than 50,000 remote-access-enabled devices shows that the volume of remote access tools deployed is excessive, with 55 percent of organizations having four or more and 33 percent having six or more.
Free tool for service providers helps identify security and compliance gaps
Compliance automation software company Secureframe has launched its free Gap Assessment Tool to help service partners including MSPs, MSSPs, vCISOs, and IT security consultants identify gaps in security posture or compliance status.
It's designed to address a common challenge faced by IT service providers -- uncovering areas of non-compliance and potential risk while demonstrating value to clients.
Platform engineering hampered by development needs
Many organizations rely on platform engineering to introduce automation, self-service capabilities, and streamlined workflows into software development.
But a new report from Forrester for digital experience specialist the Qt Group finds that 63 percent of embedded software from organizations with a platform engineering strategy is still created using custom, ad hoc solutions.
NETGEAR expands Wi-Fi 7 lineup with new Nighthawk M7 Pro Mobile Hotspot
NETGEAR has just expanded its Wi-Fi 7 portfolio with the introduction of the Nighthawk M7 Pro Mobile Hotspot (MR7400). Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon SDX75 chipset and leveraging AT&T’s 5G network, this new device promises flexible, high-speed internet access.
The Nighthawk M7 Pro stands out with support for 5G speeds of up to 7.5Gbps and tri-band Wi-Fi 7 capabilities, delivering aggregated Wi-Fi speeds of up to 6.4Gbps. This mobile hotspot is ideal for consumers and businesses alike, whether for remote work, travel, or entertainment on the go.
Enterprise mobile devices see increased attacks
A new report on the mobile threat landscape from Lookout reveals a 40.4 percent jump in mobile phishing attempts and malicious web attacks targeting enterprise organizations.
More than 80,000 malicious apps were detected on enterprise mobile devices. These threats can vary widely, from invasive permissions and riskware that pose significant compliance risks to sophisticated spyware capable of tracking devices, stealing data, eavesdropping on conversations and accessing the user' camera and microphone.
Attacks on manufacturing companies up 105 percent
The manufacturing and industrial sectors have seen a dramatic rise in cyberattacks, accounting for 41 percent of cyber incidents in the first half of 2024, an increase of 105 percent.
A new threat intelligence report from Ontinue also highlights a rise in state-sponsored campaigns from China increasingly focused on information control and leveraging zero-day exploits, further complicating attribution and escalating the global threat landscape.
Apple unveils AirPods 4 and introduces hearing health features in AirPods Pro 2
Apple has announced the release of the AirPods 4, along with new hearing health features for AirPods Pro 2, marking the world’s first all-in-one hearing health experience. The new AirPods lineup includes a redesigned AirPods 4 with an open-ear design and two models: AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC).
Additionally, AirPods Max now come in a variety of new colors and offer USB-C charging for added convenience. AirPods Pro 2 will launch this fall with features like Hearing Protection, a Hearing Test, and a clinical-grade Hearing Aid, providing an end-to-end solution for users' hearing health.
Apple Watch Series 10 debuts alongside Apple Watch Ultra 2 in black titanium
Apple has introduced the Apple Watch Series 10, its thinnest model to date, featuring the largest display ever on an Apple Watch, along with new features like sleep apnea notifications, faster charging, and water depth and temperature sensing. In addition to the Series 10, Apple has also launched the Apple Watch Ultra 2, now available in a sleek black titanium finish, designed for athletes and adventurers seeking durability and advanced performance.
The Apple Watch Series 10 brings a refined design that is 10 percent thinner than its predecessors while offering up to 30 percent more screen area than previous models, making it easier to read messages, use apps, and navigate the interface. The new wide-angle OLED display technology enhances readability from various angles and provides 40 percent more brightness compared to the Series 9. With these upgrades, users can enjoy a better experience across all interactions, from checking notifications to tracking workouts.
Forget Google Pixel 9 Pro, Apple iPhone 16 Pro is the AI smartphone you really want
Apple has just unveiled the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max, positioning them as compelling options for anyone that’s been considering Google's latest Pixel 9 Pro. With the new A18 Pro chip, advanced camera system, and Apple Intelligence, the iPhone 16 Pro models deliver powerful performance, cutting-edge features, and a sleek design that make them hard to ignore.
The iPhone 16 Pro offers a 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR display, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max boasts an impressive 6.9-inch screen -- the largest ever on an iPhone. Both models feature ultra-thin borders, enhancing their sleek design. With ProMotion technology and Always-On displays, users can expect smooth scrolling and vivid visuals. The new titanium frame not only makes these phones more durable but also significantly lighter than previous models. This design is further protected by Ceramic Shield, which, Apple says, is 2x tougher than glass on other smartphones.
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