Meta is introducing a new feature called “Today’s Topics” on its Threads app, aiming to highlight current discussions that are capturing the attention of its user base. Announced by CEO Mark Zuckerberg, this initiative is set to begin with a small-scale test in the United States. It represents Meta’s latest effort to foster meaningful engagement and keep its community informed about trending conversations.

According to TechCrunch, the “Today’s Topics” feature is powered by Meta’s AI systems, which identify popular discussions by analyzing user interactions and the volume of conversation around specific subjects. This algorithmic approach ensures the topics presented are both relevant and timely, mirroring the collective interests of Threads users.

To uphold the integrity and relevance of the topics featured, Meta has enlisted a team of content specialists. Their role is to ensure that all topics comply with the platform’s Community Guidelines and other integrity policies, while also removing duplicates and filtering out misleading or nonsensical topics. Users play a crucial role in maintaining content quality, as they are encouraged to flag any topic that might breach the platform’s guidelines.

Navigating political content on Threads

Despite Meta’s recent declaration to scale back on recommending political content across its platforms, “Today’s Topics” will not exclude discussions on political themes. Meta clarified that political subjects could indeed emerge as topics of interest, as long as they do not contravene the platform’s Community Guidelines or integrity policies. This stance highlights Meta’s commitment to offering a broad spectrum of timely and relevant discussions, without tailoring recommendations to individual users.

The launch of “Today’s Topics” could enhance Threads’ appeal as a dynamic platform for real-time conversations and debates, potentially positioning it as a stronger competitor to X (formerly Twitter). The degree of human curation versus algorithmic selection in managing these topics is yet to be fully disclosed, leaving room for speculation on how Meta will balance editorial oversight with automated processes.

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Disney has introduced “Disney’s Magic Words,” an AI tool aimed at revolutionizing advertising on its streaming platforms, Disney+ and Hulu, according to a recent Reuters report. This new technology employs AI and machine learning to analyze scenes within Disney’s extensive content library, enabling advertisers to match their ads with the mood and context of specific scenes.

By identifying and tagging scenes with metadata that includes information on content, brands, imagery, and mood, “Disney’s Magic Words” allows for a more precise form of contextual advertising. This approach moves beyond traditional demographic targeting, offering advertisers the opportunity to personalize their messaging based on the emotional and thematic resonance of the content viewers are watching.

Geoffrey Calabrese, Chief Investment Officer at Omnicom Media Group, one of the six global advertising firms participating in the early beta test of the product, praised the tool for its potential to connect advertisers with the emotions of consumers on a more granular level. Other beta partners include Dentsu, GroupM, Horizon Media, IPG Mediabrands, and Publicis Media.

The technology was showcased last month at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, where Rita Ferro, Disney’s global head of ad sales, emphasized its ability to enhance the impact of advertisements by aligning them with viewer experiences.

The initiative comes as advertisers increasingly shift their focus from traditional TV to streaming services, in line with changing viewer habits. Despite a nearly 3% decline in advertising revenue to $3.35 billion in the fiscal first quarter of 2024, Disney remains optimistic about the future of streaming advertisements. CEO Bob Iger reported that the ad-supported version of Disney+ attracted over 1,000 advertisers in the first quarter, a significant increase since its launch.

Joe Earley, President of Disney’s direct-to-consumer business, highlighted the immediate success of Disney+ in utilizing advanced ad technology, a capability that has been refined over years, particularly with Hulu’s ad-supported service in 2008. According to Earley, Disney+ was able to leverage this technology effectively from the start.

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Nvidia, the leading global supplier of AI chips, is venturing into a new business domain by creating a dedicated unit for designing custom chips for cloud computing companies and other sectors, including advanced AI processors, according to sources cited in a recent Reuters report. This strategic move aims to tap into the burgeoning market for tailor-made AI chips and safeguard Nvidia’s dominance against the increasing competition seeking alternatives to its products.

Nvidia currently boasts an impressive 80% market share in the high-end AI chip sector. This dominance has significantly contributed to its market value, which has surged by 40% this year to $1.73 trillion, following a more than threefold increase in 2023. Major tech giants such as OpenAI, Microsoft, Alphabet, and Meta Platforms, all avid consumers of Nvidia’s H100 and A100 chips, are now exploring the development of their own custom chips to optimize energy usage and reduce costs.

According to the Reuters reporting, Nvidia’s initiative to assist these companies in developing bespoke AI chips could potentially divert business from competitors like Broadcom and Marvell Technology. The company’s custom chip unit, led by Dina McKinney, a former executive at Advanced Micro Devices and Marvell, focuses on making Nvidia’s technology accessible across various industries, including cloud, 5G wireless, video gaming, and automotive sectors.

The demand for custom chips in data centers is projected to reach $10 billion this year and is expected to double by 2025. The broader custom chip market was valued at approximately $30 billion in 2023, representing about 5% of the global annual chip sales. Nvidia’s entry into this market poses a significant challenge to Broadcom and Marvell, which currently lead in custom silicon design for data centers.

Nvidia’s broader ambitions may extend beyond AI and data centers. The company is reportedly in discussions with telecom infrastructure giant Ericsson for a wireless chip incorporating Nvidia’s GPU technology. Additionally, sources told Reuters that Nvidia aims to penetrate the automotive and video game markets, with plans to target next-generation consoles from Xbox and Sony, as well as a new version of Nintendo’s Switch console expected to feature a custom Nvidia design.

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Kadokawa Corporation, the parent company of FromSoftware, has expanded its gaming portfolio by acquiring Acquire Corp., the developer behind the acclaimed Octopath Traveler series. This move, announced in Kadokawa’s recent earnings report, aims to bolster the corporation’s intellectual property creation capabilities within the gaming sector, according to a Eurogamer report.

Kadokawa’s acquisition of Acquire is part of a broader strategy to enhance its game development capabilities and IP portfolio. “By acquiring the company, which has produced million-seller hit titles, we expect to generate synergies with our existing game related subsidiaries, strengthen our planning and development capabilities Groupwide, and enhance our lineup of console games,” Kadokawa stated.

Founded in 1994, Acquire has made a name for itself through collaborations on notable titles, including Tenchu with FromSoftware and the Way of the Samurai series alongside Spike Chunsoft. The developer is also behind the Octopath Traveler series, a project brought to market by Square Enix that has seen considerable success. This series introduced the HD-2D visual style, a technique that has since been trademarked and adopted by Square Enix for additional titles. With cumulative sales surpassing 4 million units, the Octopath Traveler series represents a significant achievement in Acquire’s portfolio.

The acquisition is expected to foster collaboration among Kadokawa’s subsidiaries, including FromSoftware, known for the global hit Elden Ring, and Spike Chunsoft. FromSoftware is currently focusing on sustaining profitability through various initiatives, including the development of major downloadable content (DLC) for Elden Ring. Despite a decline in sales compared to the previous year, Elden Ring’s repeat sales have remained robust, and the upcoming Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon is anticipated to perform well.

Spike Chunsoft is also preparing for the release of Shiren the Wanderer 6 in the fourth quarter of this fiscal year. Meanwhile, Elden Ring’s eagerly awaited DLC, Shadow of the Erdtree, is still pending a release date but is expected to launch within the year.

In related news, Tencent is reportedly working on an Elden Ring mobile game after securing licensing rights from FromSoftware in 2022, indicating the expanding influence of FromSoftware’s titles in the gaming industry and beyond.

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Iranian state-backed hackers, identified as part of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards, recently disrupted TV streaming services in the United Arab Emirates, according to a recent Guardian report. They broadcasted a deepfake newsreader delivering a fabricated report on the war in Gaza, as reported by Microsoft analysts. This operation, dubbed “For Humanity” by the hackers, involved an AI-generated news anchor presenting unverified images purportedly showing Palestinians harmed by Israeli military actions in Gaza. The Iranian-backed hackers, known as Cotton Sandstorm, showcased their intrusion into three online streaming services on the Telegram messaging platform, interrupting news channels with the fake broadcaster.

In one instance, Dubai residents using a HK1RBOXX set-top box encountered a message claiming the necessity of hacking to deliver a message, followed by the AI-generated anchor introducing “graphic” footage and a ticker detailing casualties in Gaza. The disruptions extended to Canada and the U.K., affecting channels including the BBC, though the BBC itself was not directly hacked.

This incident marks the first time Microsoft has detected an Iranian influence operation leveraging AI as a significant component of its messaging. It represents a notable escalation in the scope of Iranian operations since the onset of the Israel-Hamas conflict, reaching audiences in the UAE, U.K., and Canada.

Deepfakes and election disruption

The rise of generative AI, capable of producing convincing text, voice, and images from simple prompts, has led to an increase in deepfake content online. Such technology poses a risk of being used to disrupt elections, including the upcoming 2024 U.S. presidential election. Iran’s history of targeting the 2020 U.S. election with cyber-campaigns, including impersonating American extremists and spreading disinformation about voting infrastructure, underscores the potential threat posed by these capabilities.

Microsoft’s report highlights the broad range of cyber-attacks and online influence operations launched by Iranian state-backed actors since the Hamas attacks on Oct. 7. These tactics have included exaggerating the impact of cyber-attacks, leaking personal data from an Israeli university, and targeting pro-Israel countries like Albania and Bahrain, as well as the U.S.

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Just a week following Microsoft’s announcement of nearly 2,000 layoffs within its gaming division, the Federal Trade Commission has raised concerns over Microsoft’s adherence to its initial promises regarding the operation of Activision Blizzard post-acquisition, according to a recent report by Engadget. The FTC’s apprehensions were formalized in a complaint submitted to a federal appeals court on Wednesday, calling for a temporary halt on Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard amid ongoing investigations into potential antitrust violations.

Microsoft had previously assured the FTC that the acquisition of Activision Blizzard would be managed as a vertical integration, implying that layoffs would be unnecessary due to the absence of overlapping roles. However, the recent job cuts announced on Jan. 30, which impacted employees across Activision Blizzard, ZeniMax, and Xbox, have sparked controversy. Microsoft cited “areas of overlap” between itself and Activision Blizzard as the reason for the layoffs, a statement that the FTC claims contradicts Microsoft’s earlier representations to the court.

The FTC’s complaint highlights the contradiction between Microsoft’s initial assurances and its recent actions, stating, “Microsoft’s recently-reported plan to eliminate 1,900 jobs in its video game division, including in its newly-acquired Activision unit, contradicts the foregoing representations it made to this Court.” This discrepancy forms the crux of the FTC’s argument against the merger’s current trajectory.

While the U.K.’s Competition and Markets Authority gave the green light to Microsoft’s $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard in October, the FTC remains unconvinced, continuing to challenge the merger. The FTC’s ongoing opposition raises the possibility that Microsoft might be compelled to divest portions of Activision Blizzard to address antitrust concerns.

The FTC also expressed concerns that the recent layoffs could hinder its capacity to provide adequate relief to employees adversely affected by the acquisition. This development is part of a broader trend of significant job losses within the video game industry, with an estimated 10,500 individuals laid off in 2023 and an additional 6,000 already facing unemployment in 2024.

In response to the FTC’s accusations, Microsoft has defended its position, stating that the layoffs were not solely due to the merger but were part of broader industry trends. Microsoft’s legal counsel argued that Activision Blizzard had already planned significant job cuts while operating independently. Microsoft maintains that it continues to support its representations to the court and is prepared to divest Activision Blizzard if required, despite the recent layoffs.

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Google announced today the launch of Gemini Advanced, marking a significant update to its artificial intelligence technology. This new development is part of Google’s ongoing efforts to integrate AI across its range of products and services, including the Cloud and Workspace services, as well as Google One, which is on the verge of reaching 100 million subscribers.

In December, Google introduced a comprehensive upgrade to its AI models, which have shown remarkable performance across various benchmarks in text, image, audio, and video processing. These models are designed to support not just Google’s consumer products but also to provide developers and businesses with advanced tools for innovation.

Google Bard is now Gemini Advanced

Gemini Advanced, previously known as Bard, represents Google’s latest AI offering, now available in 40 languages and soon to be released on Android and iOS platforms. This enhanced version is capable of complex reasoning, coding, creative tasks, and personalized learning assistance. It’s positioned as a tool for users seeking a more sophisticated AI experience for tasks ranging from content strategy planning to business plan development.

Access to Gemini Advanced is through a subscription to Google One AI Premium plan, which combines Google’s leading AI features into a comprehensive package. This plan extends beyond Google One’s traditional offerings, which include expanded storage and exclusive product features.

Google is also integrating its advanced AI models into everyday products that businesses and individuals frequently use. For Workspace users, over a million people are already utilizing AI to boost productivity and creativity. Google is rebranding the AI features in Workspace, known as Duet AI, as Gemini for Workspace, extending these capabilities to consumers who subscribe to the Google One AI Premium plan.

For Google Cloud customers, the transition to Gemini will occur in the coming weeks, aiming to enhance productivity, accelerate development, and improve cybersecurity for companies.

Google emphasizes the role of developers in the evolution of its AI ecosystem, with a significant number already leveraging Gemini models for their projects. While today’s announcement focused on Gemini Advanced and its capabilities, Google says it plans to reveal more details about offerings for developers and Cloud customers in the near future.

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China-backed hackers have been infiltrating major U.S. critical infrastructure sectors for “at least five years,” an intelligence advisory revealed today. This campaign, detailed by the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), the NSA, and the FBI, underscores a bold shift in China’s cyber operations strategy, extending beyond traditional espionage to potentially seizing control of vital U.S. systems.

The advisory sheds light on the activities of the China-associated hacking group, Volt Typhoon, which has systematically targeted and gained prolonged access to networks within critical sectors, including water, transportation, energy, and communications. By exploiting vulnerabilities in routers, firewalls, and VPNs, and leveraging stolen administrator credentials, Volt Typhoon has not only infiltrated but also maintained its foothold within these essential systems for years.

One alarming capability of Volt Typhoon is its control over surveillance camera systems of some victims, which, combined with its sustained network access, could enable the group to disrupt critical controls in energy and water facilities. The use of “living off the land” techniques by the group — utilizing built-in tools to minimize detection — further complicates efforts to identify and mitigate these threats.

International concerns and defensive measures

The advisory, which also drew contributions from authorities in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, highlights a growing international concern over China’s cyber activities. The collaborative warning points to a broader pattern of targeting by China, not limited to the U.S. but extending to other allied nations as well.

This revelation comes amid heightened U.S. apprehensions that China might initiate destructive cyberattacks in the context of escalating tensions over Taiwan. Previous alerts from Microsoft and the U.S. government have indicated Volt Typhoon’s strategic positioning to attack U.S. infrastructure, including water utilities and ports. Although recent efforts have thwarted the group’s immediate access, officials caution that Volt Typhoon remains determined to find alternative entry points.

The advisory underscores the systemic vulnerabilities plaguing U.S. critical infrastructure, from inadequate password management and security update protocols to financial constraints hindering security improvements in sectors like water systems. Legal obstacles have further impeded government efforts to mandate cybersecurity audits.

In response to these China-backed hackers, U.S. cyber defense agencies are urging infrastructure operators to strengthen their security postures. Recommended measures include applying software updates to all internet-facing systems, enabling multi-factor authentication, and activating activity logs to monitor for suspicious behavior.

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Microsoft’s Threat Analysis Center (MTAC) has shed light on Iran’s evolving cyber operations, suggesting that the country may employ sophisticated techniques to target the 2024 U.S. presidential elections, according to a recent report by The Register. Drawing from Iran’s recent anti-Israel cyber activities, MTAC’s analysis indicates a potential threat to U.S. electoral integrity, mirroring tactics observed in the 2020 elections.

The analysis highlights the diversification of pro-Iran and Iran-linked groups engaging in cyberattacks, particularly since the Israel-Hamas conflict began. This expansion complicates the cybersecurity landscape, with MTAC noting, “Defenders can no longer take solace in tracking a few groups.”

The growing complexity of cyber threats

Iran’s cyber efforts have consistently targeted the U.S. and Israel, raising concerns about the forthcoming U.S. elections. Particularly alarming are Iran’s influence operations, which have effectively reached Western audiences with anti-Israel propaganda. Such tactics could be repurposed to influence the U.S. electoral process.

Microsoft observed a significant traffic spike to Iranian state-affiliated news sites during the Israel-Hamas war, indicating the effectiveness of Iran’s influence campaigns. Using AI in these operations, including the hijacking of a streaming TV channel with an AI-generated newsreader, marks a new frontier in Iran’s cyber capabilities.

Reflecting on Iran’s actions during the 2020 elections, the U.S. Director of National Intelligence reported Iran’s intent to undermine then-President Trump’s reelection prospects. The campaign focused on sowing division and exacerbating social tensions, without direct tampering with voting systems.

The U.S. has responded to Iran’s cyber threats with indictments against individuals involved in voter intimidation and misinformation campaigns. These efforts underscore the ongoing challenge of securing electoral integrity against foreign interference.

Iran’s cyber capabilities extend beyond influence operations to include destructive cyberattacks, as seen in recent incidents targeting Israeli and allied infrastructure. These attacks demonstrate Iran’s willingness to support its geopolitical objectives through cyber means, including ransomware attacks and infrastructure disruptions.

As the 2024 U.S. presidential elections approach, Microsoft warns of the potential for simultaneous interference attempts from multiple authoritarian states, including Iran, Russia, and China. This unprecedented scenario underscores the need for heightened vigilance and robust cybersecurity measures to protect the integrity of U.S. elections.

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WhatsApp is embarking on an initiative that will allow its vast user base of 2 billion to send messages across different messaging applications, according to a recent WIRED report. This effort, which has been in the works for around two years already, aims to facilitate seamless cross-app messaging while upholding WhatsApp’s commitment to end-to-end encryption. This marks a significant departure from WhatsApp’s previous stance, potentially enhancing competition among messaging apps.

This move toward interoperability is partly driven by regulatory pressures from the European Union. In September, the EU’s Digital Markets Act identified Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company, as a key digital “gatekeeper,” mandating it to enable cross-platform messaging. As the deadline approaches, WhatsApp is revealing its plans for how this cross-app messaging could function, striving to maintain its high standards of privacy and security.

How cross-app messaging will work

WIRED reports that the initial phase of this interoperability will enable basic functionalities such as text, image, voice messages, video, and file sharing between individuals. More advanced features, including calls and group chats, are expected to be introduced later. Importantly, this feature will be opt-in, allowing users to decide if they want to engage in cross-app messaging, which is crucial for controlling spam and scam risks.

Opting in will introduce users to a new “third-party chats” section within their inbox, segregating messages from other apps. This setup acknowledges the different privacy and security levels across networks. For seamless integration, WhatsApp is advocating for the use of the Signal encryption protocol, which it already employs. Third-party apps will need to encrypt their messages using this protocol and meet specific technical standards to ensure secure communication.

While WhatsApp has laid the technical foundation for interoperability, the success of this feature hinges on the cooperation of other messaging platforms. Detailed plans are expected to be unveiled in March, followed by a period for implementation. This initiative paves the way for a more interconnected messaging environment but also presents challenges, including security concerns, privacy implications, and the user experience.

Interoperability raises several practical issues, such as managing spam and ensuring user identities remain secure across different platforms. Moreover, the integration of diverse messaging systems with varying security measures and identification methods poses significant challenges. As WhatsApp moves forward with this feature, the focus will be on maintaining user privacy and security while fostering a unified messaging experience.

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Neal Mohan, YouTube’s CEO, today unveiled the platform’s strategic direction for 2024, focusing on artificial intelligence (AI), elevating the role of content creators, enhancing user safety, and expanding into living room entertainment and subscription models. This vision aims to harness AI to foster creative expression and simplify content creation, while also acknowledging the evolving role of creators in reshaping the entertainment landscape.

YouTube has successfully turned the living room into a primary venue for content consumption, with global viewers watching over 1 billion hours of YouTube content on their TVs each day. This trend is supported by a significant increase in creators who now receive the majority of their watchtime from the big screen, marking a more than 400% growth in the last three years. With over 8 million subscribers to YouTube TV and 100 million to Music and Premium, YouTube is poised to enhance the subscription and living room viewing experience in 2024.

Empowering YouTube creators with AI

At the forefront of YouTube’s 2024 strategy is the utilization of AI to democratize content creation. Initiatives like Dream Screen and Dream Tracks exemplify YouTube’s commitment to reducing the complexity of content creation, allowing creators to generate AI-powered backgrounds for YouTube Shorts and explore new possibilities in music. With Shorts now averaging over 70 billion daily views and a 50% increase in channels uploading Shorts year-over-year, YouTube is setting new standards in content creation and engagement.

Mohan also highlighted the transformation of YouTube creators into “next-generation studios,” who are not only entertaining global audiences but also redefining the entertainment industry with their innovative storytelling. Despite their significant contributions, creators often remain unrecognized in official labor statistics. YouTube aims to change this by advocating for the recognition and acknowledgment of creators in industry forums.

Financially, the YouTube Partner Program stands out as the most lucrative creator monetization platform, having distributed over $70 billion to creators, artists, and media companies in the past three years. The platform has witnessed a substantial increase in the use of memberships, underscoring the growing importance of fan funding.

In line with its expansive vision, YouTube remains committed to ensuring a safe and high-quality content environment. This commitment extends to providing a healthy online experience for children and connecting users with reliable information, particularly in the context of global elections. YouTube’s dedication to safety, combined with its initiatives in AI, support for creators, and focus on the living room and subscriptions, underscores its holistic approach to leading the future of digital entertainment into 2024 and beyond.

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Mozilla, the organization behind the popular Firefox browser, is stepping up its privacy game with the introduction of Monitor Plus, a subscription service designed to help users reclaim their personal data from the clutches of data brokers. Announced in a press release today, this new service expands on Mozilla Monitor, initially a free tool that alerts users to data breaches involving their email addresses.

Data brokers, companies that collect and sell personal information, often operate in the shadows of the internet, trading in data like phone numbers, email addresses, home addresses, and more. The process of removing personal information from these sites is notoriously complex, leaving many unaware of how to protect their privacy effectively.

Monitor Plus aims to simplify this process by proactively scanning over 190 data broker sites for users’ personal information. If it finds data such as names, locations, and birthdates, Mozilla will handle the removal process, which can range from a day to a month. This feature is part of the Monitor Plus subscription, priced at $13.99 per month, with a discounted annual rate of $8.99 per month ($107.88/year).

For those not ready to subscribe, Mozilla Monitor will continue offering a one-time free scan, guiding users through the manual removal process. This approach not only educates users about data brokers but also highlights the convenience of the subscription service for those seeking a more hands-off solution.

Both free and paid users will receive alerts about data breaches, with additional tools provided to address high-risk exposures. “When we launched Monitor, our goal was to help people discover where their personal info may have been exposed. Now, with Monitor Plus, we’ll help people take back their exposed data from data broker sites that are trying to sell it,” said Tony Amaral-Cinotto, Product Manager of Mozilla Monitor.

To use the service, users must provide Mozilla with basic personal information, which is encrypted and handled according to Mozilla’s privacy policy. Currently, Monitor Plus is only available to U.S. users. The company emphasizes the importance of such a tool, noting that 233 million people were affected by data breaches in 2023 alone.

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Meta is stepping up its efforts to safeguard teenagers on its platforms from sextortion, a form of sexual exploitation that threatens to share private intimate images without consent. According to TechCrunch, the tech giant announced significant updates today, including the broader availability of the Take It Down tool and a comprehensive update to its Sextortion hub, alongside launching a worldwide campaign to educate and prevent sextortion.

Developed in collaboration with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), Take It Down is an innovative online tool aimed at halting the unauthorized distribution of intimate imagery. Initially available in English and Spanish, the tool’s reach has now expanded to include 25 additional languages, such as Hindi, Chinese, French, German, and Arabic, among others. This expansion makes the tool accessible to a wider global audience, empowering teens across different cultures and regions to protect their digital privacy.

Take It Down operates by allowing users to generate a unique hash—a digital fingerprint—of their intimate image or video, which can then be privately submitted from their device. This hash enables Meta to identify and remove copies of the content across its platforms, offering a proactive measure against the threat of sextortion. Importantly, the process ensures that the actual intimate content does not need to be shared, preserving the individual’s privacy.

To further support teens facing sextortion threats, Meta has revamped its Sextortion hub with updated guidance. This includes practical advice for teens on regaining control and resources for parents to assist their children effectively. The updated guidance was developed in partnership with Thorn, a nonprofit dedicated to leveraging technology to protect children from sexual abuse.

Recognizing the importance of awareness in combating sextortion, Meta is also launching a global campaign. The initiative aims to educate teens and their parents about the dangers of sextortion and the steps they can take to protect themselves. Meta plans to collaborate with safety organizations and content creators to amplify the campaign’s reach and impact.

These efforts by Meta come in the wake of CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s testimony at a Senate hearing, where the issue of sextortion and its devastating consequences were brought to the forefront. The hearing highlighted the urgent need for social media platforms to take decisive action in protecting young users from online abuse.

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eBay, one of the world’s largest online marketplaces, has agreed to pay $59 million to settle allegations by the U.S. Department of Justice, as per the Wall Street Journal. The federal government accused eBay of selling thousands of pill presses and encapsulating machines, which is a violation of the Controlled Substances Act.

The settlement, announced on Wednesday, also includes eBay’s commitment to enhance its compliance program. This move is aimed at preventing the sale of equipment that can be used in the illegal manufacture of counterfeit pharmaceuticals.

The Justice Department’s investigation revealed that numerous buyers of pill presses on eBay also purchased counterfeit molds, stamps, or dies. These tools are often used to produce pills that closely resemble those made by legitimate pharmaceutical companies. Many of these buyers have been prosecuted for their involvement in trafficking counterfeit pills.

Despite the settlement, eBay has denied being subject to the Controlled Substances Act and has not admitted any liability regarding the allegations. The company’s response to the settlement agreement has not been publicly disclosed as of yet.

This settlement marks a significant milestone for the Justice Department, being the fourth-largest of its kind under the Controlled Substances Act and the first-ever with an e-commerce platform. The case highlights the challenges and responsibilities of online marketplaces in regulating the sale of potentially illegal items.

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The U.S. government has thwarted a sophisticated Chinese hacking campaign that posed a serious threat to American and allied critical infrastructure networks, according to the Wall Street Journal. This action, announced on Wednesday, reflects the Biden administration’s heightened vigilance against China’s increasingly advanced hacking capabilities.

Attorney General Merrick Garland emphasized the U.S. commitment to dismantling foreign-sponsored cyber operations that jeopardize American security. This latest effort involved the Justice Department and the FBI taking decisive steps in December to dismantle a botnet—a network of hacked devices—comprising primarily small office and home office (SOHO) routers.

The routers, predominantly Cisco and Netgear products, were vulnerable due to their end-of-life status, meaning they no longer received regular security updates. These routers served as nodes for the hackers, allowing them to conduct their operations covertly. The U.S. officials successfully removed the botnet from these routers and cut off the hackers’ access.

FBI Director Chris Wray issued a stark warning about the Chinese hacking threat, particularly their focus on infiltrating U.S. critical infrastructure networks. In his testimony before the House China committee, Wray highlighted the potential for real-world harm and disruption, noting that Chinese hackers have targeted essential sectors such as water treatment, energy, transportation, and communication systems.

The disrupted hacking campaign, known as Volt Typhoon, has been a concern for the U.S. and its allies for nearly a year. Microsoft and other private-sector entities have reported on this campaign’s attempts to access sensitive networks in various critical sectors. The campaign’s objectives appear to include disrupting communication infrastructure between the U.S. and Asia, potentially impacting American support for Taiwan in the event of a crisis.

China has consistently denied involvement in cyberattacks against the U.S. and other nations. The Chinese Embassy in Washington has not responded to requests for comment on this latest development. This operation by the U.S. government underscores the ongoing cyber warfare landscape and the need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect national infrastructure and interests.

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New York Attorney General Letitia James has initiated a lawsuit against Citibank, citing the bank’s inadequate response to protecting its customers from online fraud and its refusal to reimburse those who suffered financial losses due to unauthorized transactions.

The lawsuit accuses Citibank of violating the Electronic Fund Transfer Act (EFTA), which requires financial institutions to refund customers for losses incurred through unauthorized electronic transactions. This legal requirement is akin to the protections offered to victims of credit or debit card fraud under similar circumstances.

According to Bleeping Computer, the investigation led by Attorney General James into Citibank’s security protocols revealed several flaws. Notably, the bank’s systems were ineffective in identifying and responding to warning signs of fraudulent activity, such as logins from unfamiliar devices or locations, or changes in user banking details. The bank also reportedly failed to adequately monitor and prevent the consolidation of funds from various accounts into a single one, facilitating the rapid movement of stolen money by fraudsters.

Customers reporting fraudulent activities to Citibank experienced significant delays, which provided scammers with additional time to transfer funds out of their reach. Furthermore, Citibank representatives are alleged to have misled customers by assuring them of the safety of their funds and promising reimbursement, without taking prompt action to resolve the issues.

The lawsuit seeks to put an end to Citibank’s alleged deceptive practices and aims to secure compensation for victims who were denied reimbursement over the past six years, in addition to demanding penalties and disgorgement. This legal challenge follows Attorney General James’s previous efforts to encourage major banks to eliminate overdraft fees for consumer accounts.

In response to the allegations, Citibank has defended its practices, stating its adherence to relevant laws and regulations concerning wire transfers. The bank emphasized to Bleeping Computer its commitment to preventing and addressing threats to its clients and highlighted its ongoing investment in fraud prevention technologies to enhance the security of client accounts against evolving cyber threats.

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PayPal is set to layoff approximately 9% of its workforce, a move announced by CEO Alex Chriss in a recent letter to staff, as per a recent Bloomberg report. This decision comes as the company faces increasing competition, profit pressures, and a series of analyst downgrades. The layoffs, which will affect about 2,500 employees, are part of Chriss’s strategy to streamline the company and enhance its agility and profitability.

Chriss, who took the reins at PayPal in September, emphasized the need to “right-size” the organization through both direct cuts and the elimination of open roles. This restructuring aims to enable PayPal to respond more swiftly to customer needs and foster profitable growth. The company, which had around 29,900 employees at the end of 2022, had previously executed a similar round of layoffs in January of the same year.

PayPal’s shares have seen a significant decline, dropping over 20% in the past year amid faltering earnings and lowered guidance for its full-year adjusted operating margin. The appointment of Chriss as CEO was a response to these challenges, as he replaced former CEO Dan Schulman.

The payments giant, once a pioneer in the industry, now grapples with stiff competition from entities like Apple Inc. and Zelle. This competitive landscape has led to at least four analysts downgrading PayPal’s stock this month, citing concerns ranging from increased rivalry to profitability pressures.

On the third-quarter earnings call, Chriss acknowledged the company’s “cost base and complex structure” as impediments to progress. He has committed to addressing these issues to improve PayPal’s operating leverage. The company, based in San Jose, California, is expected to report its fourth-quarter results in the coming week.

Chriss’s tenure so far has been marked by a reshuffling of leadership roles and a clear intent to streamline operations, which had expanded significantly during the pandemic. This move mirrors actions by other companies in the sector, such as Block Inc., which also announced job cuts as part of its workforce reduction plan.

Layoffs across the industry

The recent layoffs at PayPal are part of a broader trend of workforce reductions across the tech industry. Several major companies, including Google and Microsoft, have also announced significant job cuts, reflecting the challenges faced by the sector in the current economic climate.

Google, one of the tech giants, has recently initiated layoffs affecting hundreds of employees. The decision comes as the company navigates through a period of economic uncertainty and shifting market demands. This move by Google is indicative of the broader industry trend where companies are reassessing their workforce needs in response to changing business environments.

Similarly, Microsoft has announced plans to lay off approximately 1,900 employees, impacting its Xbox and Activision Blizzard divisions. This decision is part of Microsoft’s broader strategy to streamline operations and focus on key growth areas, particularly as the company integrates the newly acquired Activision Blizzard. The layoffs at Microsoft underscore the challenges faced by even the largest players in the tech industry as they adapt to a rapidly evolving market.

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Blizzard Entertainment, a subsidiary of Activision Blizzard Inc., has announced Johanna Faries as its new president, as per Bloomberg. This appointment comes in the wake of Microsoft Corp.’s $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard and follows the departure of Mike Ybarra amid a wave of company layoffs.

Faries, who previously held a pivotal role in managing the Call of Duty franchise at Activision, brings a wealth of experience to Blizzard. Her career in the gaming industry was preceded by an extensive tenure at the National Football League, spanning nearly 12 years. Her transition to the role of president at Blizzard marks a notable change in the company’s leadership dynamics, especially considering the past friction between Blizzard and Activision over game development strategies and timelines.

In her communication with Blizzard employees, Faries recognized the unique identities and operational nuances of Activision, Blizzard, and King. She emphasized her commitment to respecting these differences and exploring new heights for Blizzard’s gaming universes. Faries’ approach suggests a keen awareness of the distinct cultures and community expectations within each entity.

This leadership change is part of Xbox chief Phil Spencer and Matt Booty’s broader strategy to revitalize game franchises and enhance revenue streams at Activision. The integration of Activision’s financials into Microsoft’s reports is a strategic move, particularly in light of the gaming industry’s post-pandemic challenges.

Regulatory delays in finalizing the Activision acquisition have impacted Spencer’s ability to address internal issues at the studios and delayed Microsoft’s entry into the mobile gaming sector. The recent layoffs of nearly 1,900 video-game employees, predominantly from Activision, have further complicated the situation.

Matt Cox, currently serving as the Vice President of Product Management for Call of Duty, is set to take over Faries’ previous role. Faries is scheduled to commence her new position on Feb. 5 and plans to engage directly with the Blizzard team in California, including hosting a town hall meeting.

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TikTok, the popular social media platform, is experimenting with a new feature that could transform all user posts into potential shopping opportunities, according to a recent Bloomberg report. This move is part of TikTok’s ambitious plan to establish a significant e-commerce presence in the United States.

The feature under testing employs technology to automatically identify objects within videos. It then prompts viewers to explore “similar items on TikTok Shop” by navigating to a product page, as observed in app screenshots and posts reviewed by Bloomberg. This marks a departure from TikTok’s previous approach, where only selected influencers and brands had the capability to tag products in their content.

A spokesperson for TikTok confirmed to Bloomberg that this feature is currently in an early testing phase.

In 2022, TikTok launched TikTok Shop in the U.S., aiming to blend the convenience of Amazon’s shopping experience with the product discovery aspect typical of social media platforms like Instagram. This new venture is a key focus for TikTok, which is targeting $17.5 billion in product sales in the U.S. market this year, according to sources familiar with the company’s plans.

The introduction of TikTok Shop has elicited mixed reactions. Some merchants, interviewed by Bloomberg, praised the platform for boosting their sales during the holiday season, aided by TikTok’s promotions and free shipping offers. In November, which included major shopping events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, TikTok Shop attracted over 5 million new customers.

However, the platform has faced criticism for issues such as counterfeit and imitation products. Additionally, some users have expressed dissatisfaction with the increase in advertisement-like content from influencers, which they feel detracts from the app’s entertainment value.

TikTok incentivizes content creators by offering commissions on product purchases linked to their posts, encouraging them to promote merchandise. The new feature being tested aims to link products in regular users’ posts more subtly, potentially offering a more enjoyable browsing experience for users primarily seeking entertainment.

The accuracy of the product matches in the test phase has been variable. For instance, a video of a woman polishing stones led to the recommendation of unrelated items like a gold ring and metallic press-on fingernails, tagged as “similar to item in video.”

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Zoom, the popular video conferencing platform, is poised to enhance the virtual meeting experience with its latest app designed for Apple Vision Pro. Set to launch this Friday, the app, developed for visionOS, aims to transform remote interactions into more immersive and engaging experiences.

According to 9to5Mac, a key feature of the new Zoom app is its integration with Apple’s Persona technology. This innovative feature creates a digital representation of users, capturing their facial and hand movements. This development offers a more realistic spatial representation in virtual meetings, fostering a sense of connection and presence among participants. The technology promises to replicate the nuances of in-person interactions, making virtual meetings feel more natural and engaging.

Another addition to the Zoom app is the Spatial Zoom Experience. This feature allows users to adjust the virtual meeting environment to an ideal size, creating a more immersive experience without the need for extra physical equipment. This innovation is particularly beneficial for those seeking to emulate the dynamics of face-to-face meetings.

Smita Hashim, Chief Product Officer at Zoom, highlighted the significance of this new integration. “Zoom on Apple Vision Pro helps teammates stay connected no matter when and where they work, or how they communicate and collaborate,” Hashim stated. “The integration of Zoom on Apple Vision Pro and visionOS extends our platform promise of allowing participants the ultimate meeting experience from anywhere and delivers on our commitment of seamless collaboration and communication.”

Upcoming Zoom features on Apple Vision Pro

Zoom’s upcoming features for Apple Vision Pro are set to transform the way professionals interact in virtual spaces. The 3D Object Sharing capability is particularly exciting for industries like media and design. This feature allows users to share and collaborate on 3D models, offering a more realistic and engaging way to work on creative projects.

In addition to 3D Object Sharing, Zoom is introducing Zoom Team Chat, seamlessly integrated with Zoom Meetings. This integration facilitates streamlined communication, enabling Apple Vision Pro users to effortlessly connect and share information with colleagues directly within the Zoom app.

Another innovative feature is Real-world Pinning. This unique functionality allows users to pin up to five meeting participants in their physical space. By offering the option to remove the background of pinned participants, Zoom enhances the sense of connection and presence, making virtual meetings feel more like real-life interactions.

Zoom for Vision Pro will be available for download from the visionOS App Store starting Friday, marking a step forward in the evolution of remote collaboration.

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