Microsoft warns of Russia-affiliated groups attempting to disrupt the Paris Olympics through malign influence campaigns targeting France, President Emmanuel Macron, the International Olympics Committee, and the Games. These campaigns use AI-generated content and fake media to spread fear and discredit the IOC. The Microsoft Threat Analysis Center expects these activities to intensify, potentially spilling over into real-world provocations to undermine confidence in French security forces.

Agencies in Europe and the United States have conducted major operations against botnets, with the U.S. dismantling what is likely the world's largest botnet, 911 S5, and Europol targeting several malware droppers. The U.S. operation led to the arrest of YunHe Wang and the seizure of significant assets, while Europol's Operation Endgame resulted in multiple arrests and the dismantling of criminal infrastructure. Both operations highlight the international collaboration in combating cybercrime and the significant impact on financial fraud and other cyber-enabled crimes.

The U.K. Parliament has expedited the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Bill, aimed at curbing the dominance of tech giants like Apple and Google in the mobile browser and cloud gaming markets. The bill, similar to the EU's Digital Markets Act, grants the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) significant powers to regulate companies with substantial market influence. The legislation has received widespread support from political figures, campaigners, and app developers, who believe it will foster a fairer digital market. Penalties for non-compliance can reach up to 10% of global annual turnover.

The U.K. government is enhancing cybersecurity measures for political candidates and election officials amid concerns over cyber threats from Russian and Chinese state-affiliated actors. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has introduced the Personal Internet Protection service to guard against cyber attacks and is encouraging high-risk individuals to sign up for additional security services. GCHQ director Anne Keast-Butler highlighted the significant threat posed by China, which has been accused of cyber campaigns against U.K. institutions. The NCSC's efforts aim to bolster defenses and protect democratic processes.

The European Commission has initiated a formal investigation into Meta, scrutinizing its compliance with the Digital Services Act concerning the protection of minors on Facebook and Instagram. The investigation centers on potential behavioral addiction in children caused by the platforms' algorithms and the adequacy of age-verification methods. Key figures, including Margrethe Vestager and Thierry Breton, emphasize the need to protect young people's mental and physical health. Meta defends its efforts, citing numerous protective features and industry-wide solutions. This probe is part of a broader series of investigations under the DSA, targeting multiple tech companies.

The U.K.'s communications regulator, Ofcom, is investigating OnlyFans for potentially failing to prevent children from accessing pornography on its platform. The investigation focuses on whether OnlyFans' age verification measures were adequately implemented and if the company provided complete and accurate information in response to statutory requests. OnlyFans attributes the issues to a coding configuration error in its age verification software. The investigation pertains only to U.K.-based users and does not affect content creators. Ofcom expects to provide an update by August.

Tech giants including Amazon, Google, and Microsoft have pledged to eliminate AI-generated child sexual abuse material (CSAM) from their training datasets. Collaborating with nonprofits Thorn and All Tech Is Human, these companies commit to 'safety by design' principles, responsible sourcing of datasets, and reporting confirmed CSAM to authorities. They aim to prevent misuse of generative AI for child exploitation, incorporating feedback loops and stress-testing in their development processes. The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children emphasizes the need for legislation to ensure AI technologies do not facilitate child sexual exploitation.

Bots now constitute nearly half of all internet traffic, with 'bad bots' responsible for a third. The 2024 Imperva Bad Bot Report indicates that bot traffic has reached its highest level, surpassing human-generated traffic, which has fallen to 50.4%. Bad bots dominate in Ireland and Germany, with 71% and 68% of traffic, respectively. The rise of generative AI has increased the volume of simple bots, and account takeover attacks have risen, particularly targeting API endpoints. The gaming industry experiences the most bot traffic, while advanced bad bots are most prevalent in law, government, and entertainment sectors. A significant amount of bad bot traffic originates from residential ISPs, complicating detection efforts. The report suggests that organizations must invest in bot management and API security to combat these threats.

The article provides an overview of how to determine if a phone is hacked and steps to take for recovery and future protection. It discusses common hacking techniques, signs of a hacked phone, and recommends using reputable security software and cybersecurity measures. The article also advises on immediate actions such as contacting financial institutions and changing passwords, and suggests preventative measures like software updates, strong passwords, and caution with public wifi and charging stations.

The world is moving towards renewable energy, with the UN stating that global emissions need to be halved by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050 to mitigate climate change. Energy islands are emerging as a solution for offshore wind energy, with Denmark's Energy Agency leading the construction of two such islands in the North Sea and Baltic Sea. The North Sea island will be artificial, while the Baltic Sea island will utilize Bornholm. Both will convert wind energy to electricity and potentially other forms of energy. Danish company Ørsted and the VindØ consortium are among the bidders for these projects. Additionally, Belgium's TM Edison is constructing an energy island in the North Sea. These projects involve advanced technologies and aim to significantly contribute to the green energy transition in Northern Europe.

The U.K. government plans to increase the use of facial recognition technology to combat rising retail crime, investing £55.5 million over four years. The initiative, led by the Home Office, aims to deploy mobile units to high streets and use live facial recognition to identify repeat offenders. While Home Secretary James Cleverly supports the zero-tolerance approach, civil liberties organizations like Big Brother Watch criticize the plan as authoritarian and ineffective. The Home Office has shown long-standing enthusiasm for facial recognition, despite concerns about its accuracy and impact on privacy.

Meta plans to tighten its policies around AI-generated content on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads, labeling a broader range of content as 'Made with AI' when detected. This change follows criticism from its independent Oversight Board, which argued that the existing policy was too narrow. The new policy will cover digitally created or altered images, videos, or audio that could deceive the public. Content will remain on the platforms unless it violates other company policies. The changes will be implemented starting in May, with further adjustments in July.

Regional startup ecosystems in Wales and the Yorkshire and Humber regions of the UK saw increased investment rates in 2023, despite a challenging period for the broader UK tech industry. Yorkshire-based firms raised investment by 20%, reaching a record high of £200 million, while Welsh startups raised over £113 million, an 8.7% increase from the previous year. However, venture capital investment levels have dropped since COVID, with 2023 figures remaining lower than pre-pandemic levels. Research from Barclays Eagle Labs and KPMG indicates that access to funding is a significant growth barrier for UK startups, with over half of founders citing funding availability as a hindrance. Technology minister Saqib Bhatti emphasized the need for improved funding opportunities to support British innovation. The research also suggests that many UK tech founders consider selling their business to international buyers as a preferred exit strategy.

The number of 'right to be forgotten' requests in the EU has declined since its peak in 2020 during the pandemic, according to Surfshark research. France, Germany, and the U.K. lead in requests, with social networking sites being common targets. Google has delisted a high percentage of sensitive personal information URLs but has lower rates for professional and political information. Google stopped notifying publishers of content removal after a Swedish court ruling, although it disagrees with the decision.

French regulators fined Google €250 million for failing to comply with commitments on payments to media companies, stemming from a 2019 copyright law. The Autorité de la Concurrence found Google did not negotiate in good faith and failed to provide necessary information to publishers. The use of news content to train AI models, particularly Google's Bard (now Gemini), has also raised concerns. Google agreed to address the breaches but criticized the fine as disproportionate.

The EU's AI Act, the first major regulation on artificial intelligence, imposes significant obligations on businesses, classifying AI into risk categories and banning certain practices. While praised for its pioneering approach, it faces criticism for exceptions granted to law enforcement and limited scope of impact assessments. The Act mandates transparency and risk reduction for high-risk AI systems, with businesses urged to prepare for compliance. The legislation is expected to influence global AI regulation, with other nations likely adopting similar approaches.

The UK government is criticized for inadequate response to ransomware threats by the Joint Committee on the National Security Strategy, which is concerned about the country's cyber resilience. The government's rejection of the committee's recommendations, including the creation of a cross-sector regulatory body, is seen as an 'ostrich strategy'. The committee highlights the lack of skills and capacity among operators of essential services and the unaffordability of insurance for cyber-attack victims. Industry experts, including My1Login CEO Mike Newman, echo the committee's concerns about the UK's vulnerability to ransomware. The government defends its actions, citing international efforts against ransomware groups and investment in the National Cyber Strategy.

The U.K. government is addressing biases in medical devices, particularly those using AI, following an independent report highlighting issues in devices like pulse oximeters and polygenic risk scores. The report found that these biases could lead to misdiagnoses and delayed treatments, especially for ethnic minorities and women. The government plans to update guidelines and improve data transparency, while experts call for an expert panel to oversee AI's impact on healthcare equity. The response has been positively received by medical experts and campaign groups, though caution is advised in implementing changes.

The Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) role emerged in the 1990s and is now a standard in large organizations, with all Fortune 500 companies employing a CISO or equivalent in 2023. The CISO oversees information security, developing policies to protect data, and is more common in organizations handling sensitive information. The role differs from the Chief Information Officer (CIO), who manages all IT, and the Chief Security Officer (CSO), who may also cover physical security. CISOs require a mix of technical knowledge and soft skills, often holding degrees and certifications in relevant fields. The average U.S. salary for a CISO is $313,036, with significant variance. The role's importance is growing due to increasing cybersecurity threats and regulations.

A data breach has exposed how Chinese firm i-Soon targeted government bodies in Asia and Europe, including NATO, between 2020 and 2023. The leak, revealed by Sentinel Labs, shows the compromise of at least 14 governments and various organizations. The files include financial information, products, employee details, and foreign infiltration data. i-Soon, believed to be a private contractor for China's Ministry of Public Security, used various tools for cyber espionage. The leak could impact international diplomacy and expose security vulnerabilities.

The European Commission has initiated a formal investigation into TikTok to address concerns about the protection of minors and potentially addictive algorithms. The probe will evaluate TikTok's compliance with the Digital Services Act, focusing on age verification tools, privacy settings for minors, advertisement repository transparency, and access to data for researchers. Amnesty International has supported the investigation, citing the platform's negative impact on children's mental health. TikTok has responded by stating its commitment to safety and willingness to cooperate with the Commission.

A campaign group has accused X of granting blue checkmarks to terrorist organizations subject to U.S. sanctions, potentially violating U.S. law. The Tech Transparency Project identified accounts for sanctioned entities, including Hezbollah leaders and state-run media from Iran and Russia, that received paid-for checkmarks. X's safety team claims compliance with legal obligations and has removed the checkmarks from the named organizations. The article suggests that the checkmarks were likely awarded by accident, and with their removal, serious consequences are unlikely.

The National Audit Office has criticized the UK government for wasteful spending on outdated IT systems. In a speech to Parliament, auditor general Gareth Davies will address five key areas of government waste, with IT spending being a significant concern. The NAO suggests prioritizing the replacement of old IT systems, improving data sharing, and hiring skilled technology staff. The TaxPayers' Alliance supports the call for productivity improvements. Concerns were also raised about the Home Office's costly cloud deal with Amazon Web Services, which may exceed initial cost projections.

The U.K.'s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has outlined its plans for a new digital markets competition regime aimed at preventing large tech companies from gaining unfair competitive advantages. The proposed Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Bill will apply to firms with Strategic Market Status, requiring them to support competitors' products and ensure fair trading practices. The CMA plans to evaluate several companies for SMS status and impose conduct requirements if necessary. The bill is expected to become law by the end of the year, with detailed guidance to follow. Recent regulatory actions by the CMA include commitments from Amazon and Meta to prevent abuse of their market positions.

Kao Data has appointed Doug Loewe as its new CEO to lead the company's expansion across the UK and Europe. Loewe has a background with companies such as Macquarie Asset Management and Rackspace. Under his leadership, Kao Data aims to scale its data center platform, particularly in AI and advanced computing. The company has recently invested £350 million in a new data center in Greater Manchester and plans to build another in Stockport by 2025.

Researchers in France discovered a significant underground hydrogen deposit while searching for methane, potentially marking the largest natural hydrogen reserve found to date. This discovery could play a crucial role in the global shift towards cleaner energy, as hydrogen is seen as a key fuel for reducing carbon emissions. Current hydrogen production methods are not environmentally friendly, but natural hydrogen deposits, like the one found in France, offer a greener alternative. The US Geological Survey estimates that there could be vast amounts of accessible hydrogen worldwide. Companies like Breakthrough Energy Ventures, Koloma, Getech, and Gold Hydrogen are investing in and exploring these natural hydrogen reserves, with significant interest in regions such as the US, Australia, and several African countries. The technology for extracting hydrogen is similar to that used for natural gas, making it a feasible option for future energy needs. However, the exploration and extraction of these deposits come with risks, and major oil companies are currently adopting a wait-and-see approach.

UK businesses are being urged to prepare for the analogue phone switch-off in 2025, as BT plans to retire its PSTN and ISDN networks in favor of digital technology like VoIP, Digital Voice, or All-IP telephony. Traditional landline contracts and PSTN-enabled devices are no longer available for purchase. The switch-off will affect various services including alarms, PDQs, and EPOS devices. Espria's Andy Fung advises businesses to audit their systems and consider the needs of hybrid and office-based employees, as well as hardware requirements and digital transformation beyond phone services.

Aspire Technology Solutions is acquiring Cloud Cover IT to expand its UK presence and technology portfolio. The acquisition will integrate Cloud Cover IT into Aspire's group, rebranding its software development and business applications division as 'Flyte'. Aspire aims to strengthen its market position in Scotland and create 150 new jobs across the North East. Backed by private equity firm LDC, Aspire is pursuing a growth strategy through organic growth and acquisitions. The new Flyte division will focus on Microsoft 365 and digital transformation consultancy services.

Accenture has completed the acquisition of 6point6, a UK-based technology consultancy specializing in cloud, data, and cyber security. The acquisition adds around 400 tech staff to Accenture and enhances its strategy and architecture capabilities, particularly in central government, defense, security, and financial services. 6point6 has been involved in significant projects such as Europe's largest cloud migration for a UK government department. Accenture has also recently acquired other companies, including Customer Management IT and SirfinPA in Italy, Rabbit’s Tale in Bangkok, and agreed to acquire the business of Jixie in Indonesia.

Government-imposed internet shutdowns in 2023 cost the global economy $9.01 billion, with significant impacts in Russia, Ethiopia, and Iran. These shutdowns, often linked to human rights abuses, restrict digital freedoms and cause economic self-harm. The report by Top10VPN highlights the extensive use of internet blackouts and social media blocks, with Russia's ban on major platforms being the most costly. Despite a decrease in total costs compared to 2022, the duration of shutdowns increased. The economic impact of Gaza's internet outages remains unquantified due to the complexities of conflict.

Radioactive Waste Management, planning an underground nuclear waste store in northern England, has been targeted by cyber criminals via LinkedIn. Cyber attacks have escalated recently, with concerns over access to sensitive materials. The government-backed Nuclear Waste Services, of which RWM is a part, has experienced LinkedIn targeting. Despite low-level phishing attempts, the company's cyber defenses have prevented any business or site disruptions. Experts highlight the use of open source intelligence by cyber criminals and emphasize the need for comprehensive employee training to combat social engineering threats.

Google and the University of Cambridge have entered a multi-year research partnership focused on responsible AI. The collaboration involves the university's Centre for Human-Inspired Artificial Intelligence (CHIA) and aims to explore AI's societal benefits, including climate sustainability and AI ethics. Google, as the center's first funding partner, provides an unrestricted grant to support diverse PhD students and interdisciplinary research. Key figures in the partnership include Matt Brittin from Google and Jessica Montgomery from the University of Cambridge, with CHIA led by Anna Korhonen, Per Ola Kristensson, and John Suckling.

The US is conducting a review of the semiconductor supply chain to address national security risks from China. The review aims to strengthen the supply chain, promote fair competition, and reduce dependence on Chinese-manufactured chips. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo emphasized the need for industry collaboration. The review follows a report from the Bureau of Industry and Security, which highlighted intense competition and significant subsidies from foreign governments, particularly China. The US CHIPs Act, providing $52.7 billion in subsidies and tax credits, aims to bolster domestic production. The EU is also addressing similar concerns with its European Chips Act.

Meta is accused by Human Rights Watch of systematically suppressing pro-Palestinian content on Instagram and Facebook, citing flawed policies, inconsistent implementation, and overreliance on automated moderation tools. The report calls for Meta to align its policies with international human rights standards and improve transparency. Criticism also comes from the Meta Oversight Board and political figures like Senator Elizabeth Warren, emphasizing the need for social media platforms to allow legitimate content, especially during conflicts.

EU member states have agreed on amendments to the Cyber Solidarity Act, aimed at enhancing Europe's resilience against cyber threats. The legislation focuses on improving detection, preparedness, and protection of critical infrastructure. Key features include the creation of a 'European cyber shield' with national and cross-border security operations centers, a cyber emergency mechanism, and a cyber security reserve. ENISA will play a crucial role in incident reviews and assessments. The next step involves negotiations with the European Parliament for the final version of the legislation.

Microsoft introduces Windows Protected Print Mode (WPP) to enhance printer security, marking a significant update to the Windows Print stack. This move addresses ongoing printer-related security threats, as highlighted by a Sharp report. WPP blocks third-party drivers and incorporates new security protections, mitigating over half of past vulnerabilities. The update restricts Print Spooler service privileges and introduces hardware-based mitigations to prevent various attacks. Microsoft encourages the use of Internet Printing Protocol and has ended support for legacy printer drivers.

The European Commission has initiated a formal investigation into X, formerly known as Twitter, for potential violations of the Digital Services Act (DSA), particularly concerning disinformation related to Hamas' attacks on Israel. This marks the first enforcement action under the DSA, which imposes strict regulations on large online platforms. The investigation will scrutinize X's risk management, content moderation, advertising transparency, and data access practices. If found guilty, X could face fines up to 6% of its global revenue. The Commission's actions follow concerns about fake and manipulated content on the platform, with officials emphasizing the importance of safeguarding European citizens online.

Despite significant hype and government support, 83% of UK organizations have no immediate plans to adopt AI, with 85% not currently using it. Hesitancy stems from unclear use cases, investment costs, and skills shortages. Large businesses are more likely to invest in AI, while smaller firms face traditional barriers such as budget constraints and lack of expertise. Experts suggest that greater AI adoption may occur as businesses better understand its potential and develop clear strategies.

A House of Lords committee has endorsed the creation of new UK computing qualifications for high school students to increase engagement with technology subjects. The proposed GCSE would recognize higher-level technical knowledge and skills, complementing the existing computer science GCSE. The committee, chaired by Jo Johnson, highlighted the need for educational reform to address an overloaded curriculum and declining opportunities for creative and technical subjects. The British Computer Society's research indicated a significant drop in computing studies among students at age 14. The committee concurred with the BCS's recommendations, including the introduction of a new applied computing GCSE and a basic digital literacy qualification. The Royal Academy of Engineering noted the low number of students continuing computer science studies, which could impact the UK's global standing in AI and computing.

The U.K. government's plan to deny migrants access to their own data has been challenged by the Court of Appeal, which ruled that the government must clarify the 'immigration exemption' in the Data Protection Act 2018. The exemption, which could be used in cases such as suspected sham marriages, lacked clear safeguards and could be changed without parliamentary scrutiny. The case was brought by the3million and Open Rights Group, with the Information Commissioner's Office supporting their concerns. The government has three months to make the required changes, and the Information Commissioner's Office will update its guidance accordingly.

The U.K. government's plan to deny migrants access to their data has been challenged by the Court of Appeal, which ruled that the government must clarify the 'immigration exemption' in the Data Protection Act 2018. The exemption, which could be used to prevent access to personal data if it affects immigration control, lacked clarity and safeguards. The case, brought by the3million and Open Rights Group, highlighted concerns over the Home Office's ability to change policies without parliamentary scrutiny. The Information Commissioner's Office, an interested party in the claim, supported the need for clearer guidance. The government has three months to make the required changes.

U.S. Senator Ron Wyden has accused foreign governments of obtaining data from Apple and Google to spy on smartphone users via push notifications. These notifications, which pass through the companies' servers, contain metadata and potentially unencrypted content. Wyden claims the US government has banned Apple and Google from disclosing these data requests, which are absent from their transparency reports. He urges the Department of Justice to allow the companies to be transparent about these demands and to notify affected customers. Apple, now that the issue is public, aims to update its transparency reporting. Both Apple and Google have been contacted for comments.

UK workers show more enthusiasm for generative AI than their US counterparts, with 60% of UK workers recognizing a high or existential need for AI integration in their work, versus 44% in the US. Despite this, only 19% of UK employees have used AI tools at work, the lowest among surveyed countries. The study by Slack highlights a gap between the desire to adopt AI and actual usage, attributed to concerns over accuracy and trust. UK workers report less productivity gains from AI compared to other countries, and the study also notes the impact of work hours on productivity and wellbeing, suggesting that AI could help alleviate the afternoon productivity slump.

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has launched the Cyber Incident Exercising scheme to help organizations conduct cyber incident response exercises. The scheme, first announced in August 2023, is delivered in partnership with CREST and IASME, who manage assessments and service providers. It offers bespoke exercises to complement the NCSC's free Exercise in A Box tool. The scheme aims to improve resilience and effectiveness during cyber incidents but does not cover category 1 and 2 incidents, which involve a coordinated government response. It targets private sector companies, charities, local authorities, and smaller public sector organizations in the UK.

Despite a high strategic emphasis on sustainability, only 16% of organizations have integrated it into their strategies and data practices, as revealed by a report from Kyndryl and Microsoft. The report highlights the underutilization of technology, with only 32% of firms making full use of it for sustainability. It suggests that companies need help with program integration and execution, and recommends streamlining data management, expanding AI use for predictive analytics, and emphasizing employee education on sustainability. The study also notes the increasing global pressure on organizations to improve sustainability, driven by customers, governments, employees, and investors, and calls for clearer government mandates and resources to support the private sector's green initiatives.

European tech investment has significantly decreased due to economic conditions, with a 55% drop from 2021 levels. Despite this, Europe is seeing more tech startups than the US, particularly in AI, which attracted the most seed funding. The UK leads in the number of new tech startups but has lost its share of total capital investment to countries like France, the Netherlands, and Norway. The report highlights the need for better access to capital for European startups to match US counterparts. Key figures emphasize the resilience and potential of the UK tech sector but stress the need for fundamental support.

European consumer groups have filed a complaint against Meta's ad-free subscription service, claiming it breaches EU consumer laws by offering a misleading choice between data tracking and a high-cost subscription. The European Consumer Organisation and Noyb argue that Meta's practices are unfair and aggressive, partially blocking users from accessing services until they make a choice. The complaint follows a ruling by the European Data Protection Board and the European Court of Justice, which required Meta to obtain user consent for data use. The Irish Data Protection Commission is also investigating the issue.

Eighteen countries, led by the U.K.'s National Cyber Security Centre and the U.S.'s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, have signed the Guidelines for Secure AI System Development, marking the first global agreement on AI safety. The guidelines emphasize 'secure by design' principles, covering secure design, development, deployment, and operation of AI systems. Notable absentees include China. The guidelines aim to ensure cybersecurity is integral to AI development, with support from international leaders and recent initiatives by President Biden and CISA.

The U.K. government has announced changes to the Data Protection and Digital Information Bill, allowing the Department for Work and Pensions to access bank data of benefit claimants to detect fraud. The bill also extends the use of biometric data for security purposes. While the government argues these measures will save money and enhance security, privacy advocates and campaign groups express significant concerns about the intrusiveness and potential overreach of these powers. The amendments will be reviewed by the House of Commons on 29 November.

A study by Engprax found that over half of software engineers have suspected workplace wrongdoing, but 75% faced retaliation after reporting, leading to a culture of silence. Fear of retaliation from senior management and colleagues, social rejection, and lack of reporting policies contribute to this issue. The study, led by Dr Junade Ali, highlights the use of gagging clauses and warranty clauses that can discourage whistleblowing, despite legal protections for 'protected disclosures'. Recent cases, including Frances Haugen's Facebook documents leak and Susan Fowler's exposure of sexism at Uber, underscore the importance of protecting software engineers who report malpractice.

Microsoft President Brad Smith has revised his criticism of the UK's Competition & Markets Authority (CMA) after the regulator's initial block of Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard led to a revised deal. The CMA's concerns about cloud gaming competition were addressed by Microsoft agreeing to transfer cloud streaming rights for Activision's titles to Ubisoft for fifteen years. The deal, which closed on October 13, 2023, was also criticized by CMA Chief Executive Sarah Cardell for Microsoft's initial reluctance to restructure. The acquisition is still under scrutiny in the US by the FTC. Last year, OpenAI's Sam Altman similarly criticized EU's proposed AI regulations, which was met with a firm response from European Commissioner Thierry Breton.

A significant hydrogen deposit was discovered in the Lorraine Basin, France, by Professor Jacques Pironon and his team. This discovery is notable as hydrogen is seen as a crucial future fuel for achieving net-zero emissions. Currently, most hydrogen production methods are not environmentally friendly, with less than 1% being emission-free. Natural hydrogen deposits, like the one found in France, could provide a more sustainable source. The US Geological Survey estimates that there could be around 100,000 megatonnes of accessible hydrogen globally. Companies like Koloma and Gold Hydrogen are exploring these deposits, with significant interest in regions like South Australia. However, major energy companies are cautious, waiting for more production data before investing heavily. The hydrogen market faces a 'chicken and egg' problem, where supply and demand are interdependent. Europe leads in hydrogen project investments, followed by Latin America and North America.

Microsoft has committed £2.5 billion to develop AI infrastructure in the UK, part of a broader £29.5 billion investment in various UK projects announced by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Other significant investments include £10 billion from IFM Investors for infrastructure and energy projects, £1 billion from Yondr for a new datacenter, and £85 million from Oxford Quantum Circuits for quantum computing R&D. Additional investments come from companies like Iberdrola, BioNTech Laboratories, Aira, and Aware Super, focusing on clean energy, life sciences, and digital infrastructure. The UK government is also introducing new regulatory sandboxes and an Investor Partnership for science and tech SMEs, underscoring the country's appeal as a prime destination for global investment.

Experts highlight concerns over inadequate data backup strategies as over 800,000 UK firms report data loss since 2019, costing the UK more than £5.3 billion. Small to medium-sized businesses are the most affected, with significant financial penalties and productivity losses. The finance sector reports the highest incidence of data loss, while manufacturing faces the most expensive incidents. Sonia Blizzard of Beaming emphasizes the need for robust data backup strategies to mitigate risks. Despite some improvements, many businesses still engage in poor backup practices, leaving them vulnerable to data loss.

HelloFresh has been fined £140,000 by the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) for sending 79 million spam emails and a million texts over seven months. The ICO found that HelloFresh's opt-in statements were misleading and did not properly inform customers about marketing communications. Complaints began in 2022, and the ICO's investigation revealed that HelloFresh continued to send messages even after customers opted out. The ICO has issued over £2.44 million in fines for nuisance communications since April 2023.

The UK government is proposing new regulations to classify data centers as critical national infrastructure to enhance their protection against cyber attacks, physical threats, and extreme weather. The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) is considering new laws to enforce minimum security and resilience standards for the UK's data centers, which play a crucial role in the economy. A new regulator would be established to ensure compliance and report incidents. The proposals follow international examples from countries like Australia and Germany. The government is seeking industry input on these measures, with a consultation concluding in February 2024.

OpenAI's decision to shift its European data processing to Ireland aims to ensure GDPR compliance and reduce regulatory friction across the EU. The move follows the opening of a Dublin office and is set to take effect on February 15. This strategy aligns OpenAI with other tech giants like Google, Apple, Meta, and TikTok, which have also centralized their data processing in Ireland. Despite this, experts warn that the influence of OpenAI's US operations could still pose challenges. The European Data Protection Board has launched a task force to coordinate potential enforcement actions, highlighting ongoing concerns about OpenAI's data processing practices.

The European Commission has announced €762.7 million in funding for digital solutions, including cyber security and artificial intelligence, under the Digital Europe Programme. The initiative aims to enhance Europe's technological sovereignty and support the European Green Deal. Over the next seven years, €7.5 billion will be invested, with €549 million allocated for 2024 projects involving supercomputers, AI, cloud, and cyber security. An additional €214 million will focus on improving the EU's cyber security resilience. The program also supports the EU AI Act and the development of a European AI ecosystem, including funding for SMBs.

Google has lodged a formal complaint with the UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) alleging that Microsoft's cloud licensing practices unfairly discourage customers from using rival services. The complaint highlights that Microsoft's licensing changes, which were intended to help smaller providers, exclude major competitors like Google Cloud, AWS, and Alibaba, leading to higher costs for customers. Google has made several recommendations to the CMA, including improving interoperability and banning Microsoft from withholding security updates from customers who switch services. The CMA is already investigating the cloud computing industry, with findings expected by April 2025.

The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) fined businesses over £14.3 million in 2023 for data misuse, with the largest fine of £12.7 million imposed on TikTok for mishandling children's data. The ICO also penalized several companies for unsolicited marketing practices, emphasizing the importance of respecting privacy preferences. The ICO handled a significant number of complaints and calls, and its priorities for the coming year include supporting the new Data Protection and Digital Information bill and ensuring AI usage respects privacy standards.

The UK's National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has issued new guidance to help small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) enhance their cyber security when using cloud and online services. The guidance aims to simplify existing advice, making it more accessible for SMBs to protect themselves against cyber threats. Key recommendations include ensuring cloud services are securely configured, backing up essential data, securing domain names, and using two-factor authentication. The NCSC also provides advice on avoiding malware and utilizing built-in security features of cloud services. The guidance includes specific steps for securing accounts on platforms like Google Workspace and Microsoft 365.

The UK government is establishing an Incubator for AI team to promote AI adoption across government services, aiming to enhance efficiency and productivity. Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden highlighted the potential benefits of AI in transforming public sector processes. The government is recruiting 30 technical AI experts and plans to upskill thousands of civil servants in programming, engineering, data science, and machine learning. Training is being provided by the ONS Data Science Campus, One Big Thing, and Evidence House. The initiative includes developing a secure, shared data infrastructure to improve efficiency and collaboration among government agencies.

The role of Chief Information Officer (CIO) has evolved from a purely technical position to one that encompasses both IT and business strategy. CIOs now hold senior positions, often reporting directly to the CEO, and are responsible for developing and implementing an organization's IT strategy, managing budgets, and overseeing IT staff. The role is more common in large companies and private organizations. CIOs need a blend of technical and management skills, and the position is well-compensated, especially in high-paying companies like Google and Apple. The future of the CIO role includes a focus on business innovation, AI initiatives, and aligning IT with business goals.

The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) is set to examine the legality of generative AI training methods, focusing on the use of personal data. Concerns have been raised about data privacy and legal repercussions for developers using large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT, which are built using data collected through web scraping. The ICO plans to release guidance on how UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act (2018) could impact these methods. Stephen Almond, the ICO's executive director for regulatory risk, emphasized the importance of responsible development and deployment of generative AI. The ICO will engage with various stakeholders, including developers, legal advisors, and civil society groups, to provide clarity on data protection laws.

A new Lenovo supercomputer, ten times more powerful than its predecessor and more energy-efficient due to direct water cooling, will be installed at the Hartree Centre as part of the £210 million Hartree National Centre for Digital Innovation (HNCDI) program. This initiative aims to support UK industry in AI and big data technologies, with applications in various fields such as weather modeling, clean energy, and health technologies. The supercomputer, Lenovo ThinkSystem Neptune, will enhance the UK's global leadership in responsible AI technology adoption.

The UK government, through His Majesty’s Government Communications Centre (HMGCC) and the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), is launching the HMGCC Co-Creation initiative to collaborate with UK-based tech companies and academics. This initiative aims to enhance national security by leveraging external expertise. HMGCC, with a history dating back to 1938, has significantly expanded its operations, including developing secure communication tools for overseas agencies. The new scheme seeks innovative solutions for modern challenges, such as gathering IMSI identifiers from eSIMs, and is open to various collaborators without requiring security clearances.

Nearly three-quarters of UK banks are piloting generative AI, with 70% using AI efficiency tools and 90% employing predictive AI for fraud detection and risk analysis. While banks see potential in AI for productivity and operational effectiveness, they are cautious about short-term revenue gains, expecting returns in three to five years. Concerns about AI risks are prevalent, with 95% of firms incorporating AI risks into their control frameworks. The sector seeks greater collaboration with regulators to establish best practices and an internationally aligned regulatory system.

A report by the Royal Academy of Engineering reveals that only 7.5% of UK deep tech companies are founded by all-female teams, highlighting a significant gender disparity in the sector. The report attributes this imbalance to the low proportion of women studying STEM subjects and investor attitudes. Funding remains a challenge, with a slight decrease in investment deals from 2021 to 2022. The UK deep tech sector, dominated by clean tech and AI, has 3,462 active companies, with a notable presence of academic spinouts. North American investors play a significant role in acquisitions, reflecting the sector's global dynamics.

The UK government has released new guidance aimed at helping businesses upskill their employees in artificial intelligence (AI). Developed in partnership with Innovate UK's BridgeAI programme and the Alan Turing Institute, the guidance outlines key knowledge, skills, and behaviors necessary for safely leveraging AI technologies. It categorizes individuals into four types—AI citizens, AI workers, AI professionals, and AI leaders—and covers five dimensions including privacy, data management, problem-solving, and ethical considerations. The guidance is intended to be an evolving document, with public consultation and sector-specific resources to be developed. Key figures such as Matt Forshaw, Will Drury, and Jonathan Berry emphasize the importance of this initiative in making the UK a leader in AI.

A chief technology officer (CTO) is the senior-most tech executive in an organization, responsible for overseeing IT, data management, product development, and aligning tech strategies with business goals. The role has grown in importance, especially in tech-based startups, and involves managing tech staff, budgets, and external partnerships. CTOs work closely with other senior executives and play a crucial role in strategic decision-making. The position requires a broad range of skills, including leadership, communication, and problem-solving, and typically demands a strong academic background and years of experience. The role is well-compensated, with significant salary differences between the U.S. and the U.K. The future of the CTO role is expected to grow in importance, focusing on innovation, data management, cybersecurity, and regulatory compliance.

The UK's Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has issued a warning to websites that fail to comply with cookie consent policies, threatening harsh penalties and public naming. The ICO emphasizes the need for clear opt-in choices for personalized advertising and equal ease in rejecting all tracking. Stephen Almond, ICO executive director, highlighted concerns about targeted ads based on personal information without consent. The ICO has given companies 30 days to comply, with an update expected in January. The European Data Protection Board (EDPB) also released new guidelines on cookie use, clarifying tracking techniques and consent obligations.

Spire Global, a Glasgow-based space services firm, has secured a contract to build and operate six satellites for Lacuna Space, enhancing its IoT network. The deal, potentially expandable to dozens more satellites, aims to improve global connectivity for various sectors. The collaboration underscores Glasgow's leadership in satellite production and the UK's growing space industry, with significant contributions from Spire Global and Lacuna Space. Key figures from both companies and the UK Space Agency highlighted the transformative potential of this partnership.

Glasgow City Council and the Smart Things Accelerator Centre (STAC) are launching a new innovation hub, 'thebeyond,' at SkyPark, Finnieston, with £2.5 million in funding, including a government grant. The hub aims to position Glasgow as a leading IoT city in Europe, supporting up to 100 companies by the end of 2024. The initiative is backed by industry leaders like Dyson, Plexus, Meta, Blackberry, Motorola, and Volvo Cars. Glasgow's tech sector is further bolstered by existing innovation districts and a £60 million project to revamp the Met Tower into a digital and tech hub.

UK small businesses are expected to significantly increase their technology investments in 2024 to drive growth and improve customer experience, according to research from American Express. Despite economic challenges, 89% of small businesses are optimistic about growth prospects, with many planning to enhance their tech capabilities. Collaboration among local businesses has also increased, and studies suggest that digitization could generate substantial revenue and job growth. However, barriers such as lack of knowledge and clear expectations still hinder tech adoption for some firms.

Falling victim to phone hacking can have severe consequences, including blocked access to apps and accounts, financial loss, and psychological effects. Hacking involves unauthorized access to a device to steal data, often through malicious links or fake networks. Signs of hacking include rapid battery drain, unexpected apps, and unauthorized account access. Steps to recover include informing banks, changing passwords, deleting suspicious apps, and possibly restoring the phone to factory settings. Future prevention measures include installing security software, using two-factor authentication, and avoiding third-party app stores. If personal information is compromised, contact relevant authorities and use monitoring tools to check for data breaches.

Digitalization is expected to create numerous operational technology (OT) jobs over the next three years, addressing long-standing skills shortages in industrial organizations. Schneider Electric's report indicates that 45% of industrial firms see digital transformation as a key driver for new roles, with 70% believing it will help reduce skills gaps. Key areas for job growth include quality control, robotics programming, data processing, and analytics. Advanced technologies like AI and digital twins are becoming integral to the workforce, with sustainability goals also driving job role extensions. Despite challenges in talent acquisition, there is optimism that these can be overcome through digitalization and investment in new technologies.

Hiscox has introduced an AI-enhanced lead underwriting model in the London Market insurance industry, leveraging Google Cloud's generative AI technology to automate processes and significantly reduce quote generation time. The initiative, led by Hiscox AI Laboratories (Hailo), aims to improve efficiency and performance, initially trialed in the Sabotage and Terrorism division. CEO Kate Markham emphasized the potential of AI to support better results and reduce manual tasks, while maintaining human expertise. Other insurers like Allianz are also exploring AI applications, with McKinsey research indicating substantial revenue potential for the industry through AI technologies.

The article discusses a series of protests by employees at major Silicon Valley companies like Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and Salesforce over ethical concerns with their employers' contracts and business practices. Google employees protested against Project Maven, a Pentagon contract for AI drone technology, leading to a promise not to renew the contract and the introduction of a new code of ethics. Microsoft and Amazon employees raised concerns over ICE contracts, with Microsoft clarifying the nature of their services and Amazon trying to explain their limited work with ICE. The article highlights the power of skilled tech workers and their influence on company policies, as well as the importance of companies listening to their employees to avoid or mitigate controversies. It also touches on the broader trend of employee activism and the impact of corporate actions on societal issues on employee retention and recruitment.

The article discusses the challenges faced by artificial intelligence in translation tasks, particularly when the training data is not representative of the content and style of the text to be translated. Facebook AI researcher Guillaume Lample highlights the issue by explaining that if a translation model is trained on old manuscripts, it will struggle to accurately translate modern conversations due to the significant differences in content and style. This underscores the importance of using relevant and contemporary training data for AI models to perform effectively.

The article discusses the advantages of a spherical tokamak design in the field of nuclear fusion technology. The speaker highlights the efficiency and compactness of this topography, which leads to increased flexibility and reduced construction costs compared to traditional tokamak designs. The focus is on the potential benefits that spherical tokamaks could bring to the development of fusion energy.

The UK government, represented by Chancellor Philip Hammond, has announced a new 'digital services tax' targeting US tech giants. This 2% tax on revenue is aimed at companies with global revenues over £500 million and is designed to address the issue of these firms booking profits in lower-tax countries. The tax, which is not to be implemented until April 2020, is expected to raise around £400 million annually and will apply to companies like Facebook, Google, and Amazon. The move comes amidst similar discussions in the EU for a 3% tax on tech companies. The UK's plan is still under consultation and may change, especially considering the uncertainties surrounding Brexit and the potential for conflict with the Trump administration in the US.

European diplomats in Bangladesh have criticized the new Digital Security Act, claiming it suppresses freedom of speech and media. The act includes harsh penalties for various offenses, such as spreading 'propaganda' about Bangladesh's independence war and publishing 'aggressive or frightening' information. It allows for warrantless searches and blocks online information deemed harmful to national unity or public order. The EU, Norway, and Switzerland have urged the Bangladeshi government to revise the law to align with international human rights standards. Human Rights Watch has also condemned the act as a violation of free speech. Despite the criticism, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina defended the act, and while the government has agreed to discuss concerns with journalists, significant amendments seem unlikely.

The article discusses the rapid growth of the healthcare IT market, projected to reach $280.25 billion by 2021. It highlights the involvement of major tech companies like Google's DeepMind, Microsoft, Amazon, IBM, and Apple in healthcare technology. DeepMind's partnership with Moorfields Eye Hospital using AI for eye disease diagnosis is emphasized, along with its other healthcare projects. The article also touches on Microsoft's healthcare initiatives through Azure, Amazon's move into the pharmaceuticals with PillPack, IBM's Watson AI collaborations, and Apple's health-tracking technologies. The potential for personalized medicine through AI and the challenges of implementing technology in the NHS are discussed. Privacy and security concerns in managing health data are also mentioned as significant issues that need addressing.

The article discusses the outdated state of U.S. government IT systems, despite a cloud-first policy initiated by President Obama. It highlights the use of obsolete technology, like floppy disks for nuclear force coordination and an IBM mainframe for tax data. The policy aims to increase efficiency and service delivery, drawing parallels to Estonia's success as a 'cloud country'. Challenges in the U.S. include slow certification of cloud providers, migration costs, and compatibility issues with legacy systems. President Trump's executive order on cybersecurity and the proposed 2018 budget encourage cloud-based solutions, but dismantling net neutrality and limited IT budget increases may hinder progress. The article suggests that without dedicated funding, IT modernization in federal agencies may continue to lag.

Governments worldwide are increasingly adopting mobile apps to enhance service delivery and citizen engagement. Examples include Arkansas's Gov2Go for accessing local services, Hong Kong's VoiceMap HK for the visually impaired, and British Columbia's DriveBC for route planning. These apps offer benefits such as cost savings, improved service efficiency, and greater accessibility. Other notable apps include the Noise App in Northern Ireland, Snap, Send Solve in Christchurch, and a Hungarian app for accessing hospital records. These initiatives demonstrate the potential of digital solutions in public service.