Targeting “Woke” AI: White House’s AI Guidance Evokes Mixed Reactions
The issuing of new AI guidance by the White House has created a stir within the tech industry and academic circles. An executive order signed by former President Trump labels diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts in the development of large language models as a threat to the “commitment to truth,” calling it a pathway to the “suppression or distortion” of information. While some criticize this move as a form of censorship, others have been surprised to find a shift towards embracing open source in the administration’s separate AI action plan. IT professionals and policy experts continue to debate the potential impacts on the future of AI development and ethics.
Don’t Go Phishing: Study Highlights Mobile Users’ Lower Susceptibility to Phishing Attacks
A recent study conducted by researchers at Carnegie Mellon University and Ben-Gurion University suggests that those who primarily use mobile devices might be less likely to fall for phishing scams in comparison to PC users. As smartphones become more ubiquitous, this serves as a compelling insight into user behavior and risk management. For IT professionals, it’s a call to action to double down on educating their workforce, particularly those seated behind desktops, on the evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats.
Hunting Cyber Threats: The Evolution of Public-Private Cybersecurity Partnerships
In an interview with IT Brew, Huntress CEO and co-founder Kyle Hanslovan—who brings a wealth of experience from his years in US intelligence—discusses the intricate dance between public agencies and private enterprise in cybersecurity. Budget constraints and the stability of federal commitments make for a challenging environment where clarity and cooperation are crucial. The conversation delves into the direction of public-private partnerships amidst these uncertainties, a topic of great relevance as cyber threats continue to advance in sophistication.
Salesforce Suffers Data Theft Affecting Over 700 Customers
In a worrying development for the IT community, Google’s Threat Intelligence Group has reported a significant data theft campaign that has potentially impacted more than 700 customers of Salesforce. The alarming statistic underscores the ongoing challenges faced by companies as they strive to protect critical data against increasingly aggressive cybercriminal circles.
Strong Words for AI Companies from Attorneys General Regarding Child Safety Online
A collective of 44 attorneys general have issued a stern warning to chatbot and social media companies concerning the handling of their AI products, especially regarding the safety of children on these platforms. The directness of the message, “If you knowingly harm kids, you will answer for it,” emphasizes the growing concern and scrutiny over how AI interacts with and affects minors.
Evolution of Ransomware: AI Generated Ransom Letters Become More Convincing
Ransomware continues to evolve, as threat actors now employ generative AI to craft more convincing demands, according to new research findings. This development indicates a troubling trend where cybercriminals enhance their deceptive capabilities by leveraging the power of advanced technologies, making it increasingly important for entities to bolster their defensive measures.
