Windows – cybernews.pt

Amazon Strikes $11.57 Billion Deal to Acquire Globalstar, Escalating Space Internet Rivalry with Starlink

Newsroom — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 16:28:28 +0000

In a bold move to strengthen its position in the rapidly expanding satellite internet market, Amazon has announced a $11.57 billion agreement to acquire satellite communications firm Globalstar. The deal signals Amazon’s growing ambitions in space-based connectivity and sets the stage for intensified competition with SpaceX Starlink, backed by billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk.

The acquisition is expected to significantly boost Amazon’s Project Kuiper initiative, the company’s ongoing effort to build a global broadband network using low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. By integrating Globalstar’s existing satellite infrastructure, spectrum licenses, and operational expertise, Amazon aims to accelerate deployment timelines and expand coverage, particularly in underserved and remote regions.

Industry analysts view the move as a strategic shortcut. Instead of building entirely from scratch, Amazon is leveraging Globalstar’s established assets to compete more aggressively with Starlink, which already serves millions of users worldwide and has a substantial head start in satellite launches.

Globalstar, known for its mobile satellite services and partnerships in both commercial and government sectors, brings valuable spectrum rights that are increasingly scarce and highly sought after in the space communications race. These assets could provide Amazon with a critical advantage in scaling its network efficiently.

The deal also reflects the broader trend of tech giants investing heavily in space infrastructure as demand for global, high-speed internet continues to rise. Satellite broadband is seen as a key solution for bridging the digital divide, especially in areas where traditional fiber or cellular networks are impractical.

While regulatory approvals are still pending, both companies have expressed confidence that the transaction will be completed within the next year. If finalized, the acquisition could reshape the competitive landscape of satellite internet, turning it into a high-stakes contest between Amazon and SpaceX.

As the space economy heats up, this deal underscores a clear message: the battle for the skies—and global connectivity—is only just beginning.

White House Pushes Deep Cuts to U.S. Cybersecurity Agency Budget

Newsroom — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 15:34:06 +0000

The White House has proposed a sweeping reduction of funding for the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), seeking to cut approximately $707 million from its budget in the upcoming fiscal plan.

The proposed reduction—part of the administration’s fiscal year 2027 budget—would amount to roughly a 30% decrease in funding for the nation’s primary civilian cybersecurity agency.

Major Shift in Cybersecurity Strategy

According to budget documents, the administration aims to refocus CISA on core responsibilities, such as protecting federal networks and critical infrastructure, while scaling back broader coordination and outreach programs.

The proposal includes:

Reductions in staffing and contractor support
Cuts to stakeholder engagement and coordination programs
Elimination of initiatives tied to misinformation and external partnerships

Officials argue that these changes would streamline operations and remove what they describe as “duplicative” or inefficient programs.

Criticism and Security Concerns

The plan has drawn sharp criticism from lawmakers and cybersecurity experts, who warn that such deep cuts could weaken national defenses at a time of rising global cyber threats.

Critics point out that CISA plays a central role in:

Sharing threat intelligence with state and local governments
Coordinating with private-sector infrastructure operators
Responding to cyber incidents nationwide

Some officials have labeled the proposed reduction as “reckless,” arguing it could undermine the country’s ability to respond to increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks.

Ongoing Pressure on the Agency

The proposed cuts come after a challenging period for CISA, which has already faced:

Workforce reductions
Budget constraints
Increased operational pressure from cyber threats

If approved, the new budget would further reduce the agency’s funding to around $2 billion, significantly lower than previous levels.

European Startup Ecosystem Sees Strong Weekly Investment Momentum

Newsroom — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 15:25:48 +0000

European tech startups continued to attract significant investor interest this week, with more than 60 funding deals collectively surpassing €1.2 billion, signaling sustained confidence in the region’s innovation landscape.

The steady flow of capital highlights the resilience of Europe’s startup ecosystem, particularly at a time when global venture markets remain cautious. Rather than being dominated by a handful of mega-rounds, this week’s activity reflects a broad base of investments across early- and mid-stage companies.

One notable deal came from Italy, where Wearable Robotics secured a €5 million Series A round. The company specializes in wearable robotic systems designed to support neuromotor rehabilitation. The fresh funding will help accelerate product development, expand into international markets, and advance regulatory approvals.

Industry observers note that sectors such as healthtech, robotics, and deep technology are drawing increased attention from investors. This trend suggests a shift toward startups offering scalable, high-impact solutions with strong technical foundations.

Additionally, the diversity of deals across multiple European countries underscores the growing decentralization of innovation, with emerging hubs gaining traction alongside established centers like London, Berlin, and Paris.

Overall, this week’s funding activity reinforces the view that Europe’s startup ecosystem remains dynamic and well-supported, driven by consistent investment across a wide range of industries.

Microsoft Unveils $10 Billion Strategic Push in Japan to Accelerate AI and Cybersecurity Power

Newsroom — Sun, 05 Apr 2026 15:54:32 +0000

In a landmark move set to reshape the technological landscape of Asia, Microsoft has announced a massive $10 billion investment in Japan, targeting rapid expansion in artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity infrastructure. The initiative signals one of the company’s most ambitious regional commitments to date and underscores Japan’s growing importance in the global tech ecosystem.

A Strategic Tech Alliance

The investment will focus on building advanced AI data centers, strengthening cloud infrastructure, and enhancing cyber defense systems across Japan. Microsoft aims to collaborate closely with Japanese government agencies, private enterprises, and academic institutions to create a resilient digital environment capable of withstanding increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.

This move comes at a time when nations worldwide are racing to secure their digital borders while harnessing AI for economic growth and innovation. Japan, with its strong industrial base and technological expertise, presents an ideal partner.

TOKYO, JAPAN – APRIL 3: Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi (center right) poses for photographs after receiving a courtesy visit from Brad Smith (center left), vice chairman and president of Microsoft Corp. of the United States, on April 3, 2026 at the Prime Minister’s Office in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by The Asahi Shimbun via Getty Images)

Boosting AI Innovation

A significant portion of the funding will go toward accelerating AI research and development. Microsoft plans to introduce cutting-edge AI tools to Japanese businesses, enabling automation, smarter decision-making, and improved productivity across industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and finance.

The company also intends to expand training programs to equip Japan’s workforce with advanced digital skills, ensuring that local talent can fully leverage AI technologies.

Strengthening Cyber Defenses

With cyberattacks becoming more frequent and complex, cybersecurity is a core pillar of the investment. Microsoft will deploy advanced threat detection systems, AI-driven security tools, and real-time monitoring solutions to protect critical infrastructure and sensitive data.

The initiative is expected to significantly enhance Japan’s national cybersecurity posture, particularly in sectors like defense, energy, and telecommunications.

Economic and Global Impact

The $10 billion investment is projected to create thousands of jobs and stimulate economic growth. It also reinforces Japan’s position as a global leader in technology innovation while strengthening its alliance with major international tech firms.

For Microsoft, this expansion is part of a broader global strategy to lead in AI development and secure digital ecosystems worldwide.

Looking Ahead

As AI continues to transform industries and cyber threats evolve, Microsoft’s bold investment marks a pivotal moment for Japan’s digital future. The collaboration could serve as a model for how governments and tech giants can work together to build secure, intelligent, and future-ready societies.

This move not only deepens ties between Microsoft and Japan but also sets the stage for a new era of innovation and digital resilience in the region.

FDA’s Misstep Shows AI Can’t Guarantee Public Safety

Newsroom — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 15:46:14 +0000

FDA’s Misstep Shows AI Can’t Guarantee Public Safety

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has found itself under scrutiny after a high-profile reliance on artificial intelligence failed to deliver on its promise of safeguarding the public. The incident underscores growing concerns that while AI tools can enhance decision-making, they are far from infallible.

According to officials familiar with the matter, the FDA had incorporated an AI-based system into its review process for [insert product type — e.g., medical devices, pharmaceuticals, or food safety inspections] with the goal of speeding up approvals and flagging potential risks more efficiently. However, the technology failed to detect critical safety issues, leading to a recall and raising questions about the oversight framework for such systems.

“This is a wake-up call,” said [Expert Name], a professor of regulatory science at [University]. “AI can help, but it should never replace human judgment—especially when lives are on the line.”

The misstep comes amid a wave of government agencies experimenting with AI to manage large volumes of data and streamline workflows. Proponents argue that the technology can spot patterns invisible to human reviewers, but critics caution that algorithms are only as reliable as the data and assumptions behind them.

Consumer safety advocates are now urging the FDA to adopt a “trust but verify” approach, combining algorithmic recommendations with thorough human-led review. They warn that overconfidence in AI could lead to systemic blind spots, particularly when the technology is deployed without transparent validation and regular auditing.

The FDA has acknowledged the shortcomings of the system and announced an internal review. “We are committed to improving our processes and ensuring that AI tools meet the highest standards of accuracy and accountability,” the agency said in a statement.

This episode adds to a broader debate over the role of AI in high-stakes decision-making, from autonomous vehicles to predictive policing. Experts say that until AI is subjected to the same rigorous testing as any other critical tool, it should be viewed as an aid—not a replacement—for human expertise.

“The lesson is simple,” said [Expert Name]. “Technology can be powerful, but public safety demands more than just trusting the math.”

FTX Japan’s Defunct Platform Still Online, Potentially Exposing 35,000 Users

Newsroom — Sun, 03 Aug 2025 16:16:32 +0000

FTX Japan’s Defunct Platform Still Online, Potentially Exposing 35,000 Users

August 3, 2025 — A troubling discovery has surfaced in the ongoing fallout from the collapse of crypto giant FTX. Despite the company’s bankruptcy and shutdown in late 2022, the Japanese arm of the exchange—FTX Japan—still has a portion of its platform publicly accessible online. This lingering digital remnant may be exposing personal data of more than 35,000 former users, raising serious concerns over cybersecurity and user privacy.

Security analysts recently flagged the issue after finding that parts of the FTX Japan website, including backend infrastructure and API endpoints, remained active. While most trading services have been disabled, some user information appears to still be accessible, including usernames, account balances, and transaction histories. Experts warn that if not properly shut down, the platform could become a goldmine for cybercriminals.

Regulatory Oversight in Question

FTX Japan had been under the supervision of Japan’s Financial Services Agency (FSA), which had frozen customer assets and ordered the platform to suspend operations following the global FTX meltdown. However, the fact that parts of the system remain online suggests possible oversight gaps in how the exchange’s infrastructure was decommissioned.

Privacy advocates argue that FTX and its administrators have failed to fulfill their obligations to protect user data, even in bankruptcy. “Leaving even a fragment of an exchange like FTX online is a ticking time bomb for user privacy,” said Ayumi Tanaka, a cybersecurity expert based in Tokyo. “With thousands of users involved, the potential for identity theft, phishing attacks, or worse is very real.”

What This Means for Users

While there is no immediate confirmation of any large-scale data breach, affected users are being urged to monitor their email accounts and crypto wallets for suspicious activity. Former FTX Japan customers are also advised to reset passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on any connected services.

The issue further highlights the vulnerabilities that can remain even after a company’s public operations cease. FTX’s global collapse was one of the largest financial scandals in crypto history, and this new development underscores how the damage may still be unfolding for its users.

What’s Next?

At the time of reporting, neither FTX’s bankruptcy administrators nor Japanese regulators have issued a public statement regarding the online remnants of the platform. Legal experts suggest that this exposure could lead to further legal liabilities and class-action suits against the failed exchange.

In a space already plagued by volatility and trust issues, the ghost of FTX Japan may serve as yet another cautionary tale for both crypto investors and regulators worldwide.

If you were a user of FTX Japan and are concerned about your data, consider contacting your local consumer protection authority or seek legal advice on possible recourse.

Microsoft Attributes SharePoint Server Attacks to Chinese Hackers

Newsroom — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 16:31:14 +0000

Microsoft Attributes SharePoint Server Attacks to Chinese Hackers

July 23, 2025 — Microsoft has announced that a sophisticated cyberattack targeting its SharePoint server infrastructure has been traced to a state-sponsored hacking group operating out of China. The company revealed the findings in a recent threat intelligence report, underscoring growing concerns over state-backed cyber activity aimed at critical enterprise systems.

According to Microsoft, the attackers exploited a previously unknown vulnerability in SharePoint, allowing them to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information on targeted networks. The campaign is believed to have been active for several months before detection.

The hacking group, identified by Microsoft as part of the broader “Storm” threat actor network, reportedly focused on government agencies, defense contractors, and high-tech firms. While Microsoft did not publicly name a specific group, security experts say the techniques and infrastructure used align with known operations of APT (Advanced Persistent Threat) groups with ties to Beijing.

“We have high confidence that this campaign was carried out by a China-based threat actor with a history of targeting enterprise collaboration tools,” Microsoft said in its advisory. “This operation demonstrates a continued focus on data exfiltration and long-term access to strategic information.”

The company has released patches and mitigation guidelines for affected organizations and urged all customers to apply the updates immediately. Microsoft is also working closely with U.S. cybersecurity agencies and international partners to assess the full scope of the breach.

The Chinese government has routinely denied involvement in cyber-espionage campaigns. In response to Microsoft’s report, a spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated, “China firmly opposes all forms of cyberattacks and maintains that any accusations must be based on clear evidence.”

Cybersecurity analysts warn that this latest incident reflects a broader trend of targeting widely used enterprise platforms like SharePoint, which are often deployed across sensitive sectors but can be difficult to secure comprehensively.

“This attack underscores the importance of proactive threat monitoring and rapid vulnerability management,” said Laura Kim, a senior analyst at Mandiant. “State-aligned actors are constantly evolving their tactics to exploit even niche software exposures.”

Microsoft has committed to continuing its investigation and sharing further technical details with industry partners to bolster collective defense efforts.

Russia to Fine Searches for “Extremist” Content and Target VPN Advertising

Newsroom — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 15:12:32 +0000

Russia to Fine Searches for “Extremist” Content and Target VPN Advertising

July 17, 2025

Russia’s lower parliament, the State Duma, has approved sweeping legislation that will penalize individuals for searching or accessing online content labeled “extremist”, even if such material is accessed via VPN or other circumvention tools. The new revisions to Code of Administrative Offenses (Bill No. 755710‑8) introduce significant fines for users and advertisers alike, marking a major expansion of digital restrictions in the country.The InsiderThe Moscow Times+3Digital Policy Alert+3Izvestia+3

Key Provisions of the Bill

A new Article 13.53 will hold citizens liable for knowingly searching for or viewing extremist content online, including content accessed using VPNs or anonymizing tools. Penalties for individuals range from 3,000 to 5,000 rubles (about $38–$64) per violation.Izvestia+3Meduza+3The Insider+3
Amendments to Article 14.3 impose fines for those advertising VPN services:
- Citizens: 50,000–80,000 rubles
- Officials: 80,000–150,000 rubles
- Legal entities: 200,000–500,000 rublesMeduza+1Digital Policy Alert+1

These penalties take effect on September 1, 2025, pending the president’s signature.Digital Policy Alert+8Meduza+8The Star+8

Government Response: Controlled Use, Punitive Intent

Deputy Anton Gorelkin of the State Duma emphasized that VPN usage for legitimate personal or professional purposes will still be permitted. However, if VPNs are used in connection with alleged illicit activity, it may count as an aggravating circumstance.Izvestia+1Reddit+1 Furthermore, authorities claim there is no intention to institute mass automated monitoring of search queries, with investigations said to occur only through departmental procedures or case-by-case verification.Izvestia+1Izvestia+1

Critics Warn of Overreach and Chilling Effect

Despite assurances, digital rights advocates warn the law’s vague language may open the door to widespread abuse, surveillance, and censorship. Many fear even routine, casual searches could accidentally run afoul of the regulations.The Washington Post

Remarkably, even some pro‑Kremlin figures have criticized the legislation. Yekaterina Mizulina, a Kremlin‑aligned internet official, warned that the law might hinder monitoring efforts and backfire on the state’s own interests.Izvestia+4The Moscow Times+4The Washington Post+4

Context: Part of Escalating Control Measures

This latest crackdown builds on years of legislative consolidation. It follows previous censorship expansion under the Sovereign Internet Law and Yarovaya package (2019, 2016 respectively). Russia has also banned or throttled access to hundreds of VPN services and blacklisted thousands of websites for dissenting content. Government investments are underway to upgrade its TSPU system, aiming to bolster the state’s ability to intercept VPN traffic and enforce censorship with up to 96% accuracy.reuters.com

What’s at Stake

The new law shifts the focus from creators and distributors to searchers themselves.
Accessing content—even unintentionally—may now be legally risky.
VPN providers and platforms promoting privacy tools find themselves increasingly under threat.
It reinforces a climate where independent journalism and activism are further curtailed.
Ordinary citizens may turn to privacy‑focused tools like DuckDuckGo or disable browsing history, but enforcement remains opaque.www.ndtv.comThe Insider

Summary Table

Issue	Details
Individual fines	3,000–5,000 RUB (~$38–64) for searching/accessing extremist content including via VPN
VPN advertising fines	50,000–80,000 RUB (citizens), 80,000–150,000 RUB (officials), 200,000–500,000 RUB (organizations)
Effective date	September 1, 2025
Supreme goal	Broaden Internet censorship, curtail access and independent information

This legislation marks a significant escalation in Russia’s management of digital space—penalizing not just creation or distribution, but even the act of seeking content deemed unacceptable. The coming months will reveal how the law is enforced and whether dissenting voices can navigate the new rules.

PewDiePie Sparks Self-Hosting Trend: How to Safeguard Your Home Server Setup

Newsroom — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 15:03:04 +0000

PewDiePie Sparks Self-Hosting Trend: How to Safeguard Your Home Server Setup


| Tech Trends | July 14, 2025

Swedish YouTuber PewDiePie, known for his massive global influence and internet-first lifestyle, is once again reshaping tech behavior — this time by sparking a renewed interest in self-hosting. After showcasing his own privacy-focused home server setup in a recent video, millions of viewers have begun exploring alternatives to mainstream cloud services, leading to what many are calling a “self-hosting boom.”

But as more users dive into hosting their own websites, media servers, file storage, and even AI tools at home, cybersecurity experts are urging caution.

Why Self-Hosting?

Self-hosting refers to running services — like file sharing, cloud storage, media streaming, or even social media platforms — on your own server, typically from home, rather than relying on third-party companies like Google, Dropbox, or AWS.

For PewDiePie and his fans, the appeal lies in privacy, control, and independence. His video featured a sleek home server rack loaded with tools like Nextcloud, Plex, and Pi-hole, allowing him to manage data without third-party tracking.

The response was immediate: Reddit forums like r/selfhosted saw traffic spikes. Searches for “home server setup” jumped nearly 60% overnight, and open-source platforms reported increased downloads.

The Risks of DIY Hosting

But with great power comes great responsibility. Tech analyst Suresh Basnet warns:

“Self-hosting can be empowering, but it’s not plug-and-play. A misconfigured port or outdated software can expose your entire network.”

Some common dangers include:

Open Ports: Improperly configured firewalls can leave services visible to attackers.
Unpatched Software: Many open-source tools require manual updates.
Weak Passwords or Default Credentials: Still one of the top causes of breaches.
Lack of Monitoring: Home users rarely have alert systems to detect unusual access.

How to Protect Your Home Server Setup

If you’re inspired to start your own self-hosting journey, here’s how to do it safely:

Use a Dedicated Machine or Virtual Server
Avoid installing server tools on your daily-use PC. Instead, repurpose an old laptop, Raspberry Pi, or build a dedicated server.
Set Up a Firewall and Use a VPN
Only expose necessary ports. Better yet, access services over a VPN or local network only.
Keep Everything Updated
Automate updates where possible or set reminders. Vulnerabilities in open-source tools get patched regularly — but only if you update.
Use Strong Passwords and Two-Factor Authentication
Never keep default logins. Use a password manager and enable 2FA on all accounts.
Back Up Your Data
Redundancy is key. Use cloud backups (encrypted!) or a second local drive.
Monitor Logs and Access
Use tools like Fail2Ban to prevent brute-force attempts, and check your server logs regularly.

The Bigger Picture

Experts see this trend as a positive shift in the digital landscape. “PewDiePie has unintentionally started a grassroots movement for digital sovereignty,” said Lisa Gurung, a Nepal-based digital rights advocate.

While cloud platforms still dominate for convenience and scalability, self-hosting may soon become the privacy-savvy alternative for those who want full control over their digital lives — thanks in part to a gaming YouTuber with a passion for tech minimalism.

Have you tried self-hosting?
Share your experience and favorite tools in the comments below.

📰 Meet the Band Turning Listeners into AI Groupies

Newsroom — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 18:17:00 +0000

Meet the Band Turning Listeners into AI Groupies
July 7, 2025

In the age of digital revolutions, where artificial intelligence writes novels, paints portraits, and even drives cars, it was only a matter of time before it took center stage—literally. Meet Neuron Drift, the boundary-pushing virtual band making waves on Spotify and rapidly gaining a cult-like following. But here’s the twist: not a single human touches an instrument.

Backed entirely by AI-generated sounds, lyrics, and even visuals, Neuron Drift is the product of a neural network trained on decades of music data—from Pink Floyd’s psychedelia to Grimes’ digital dreamscapes. Their music is eerie, unpredictable, and oddly addictive—drawing comparisons to Radiohead meets a sentient synthesizer.

“We didn’t just want to make AI music that mimics,” says Zayn Talbot, the human behind the project’s curation. “We wanted the AI to feel like a living, breathing artist—one with moods, mistakes, and even obsessions.”

And listeners are eating it up. The band’s breakout track, “Digital Devotion,” climbed into Spotify’s Viral 50 in under two weeks, with fans calling it “the future of sound” and “emotionally confusing in the best way.”

The fandom is growing fast. Dubbed “AI groupies” by TikTok communities, these tech-savvy fans remix tracks using their own prompts, generate AI-based fan art, and even converse with the band’s chatbot persona after shows. One fan wrote, “I used to stan BTS—now I stan a band that doesn’t even breathe.”

Some critics warn of the ethical fog surrounding AI music, questioning its originality and impact on real musicians. But Neuron Drift’s fans aren’t fazed. “Art evolves,” says 20-year-old coder-fan, Laila. “Just like synthesizers were once controversial, now it’s AI’s time.”

Whether you see it as an evolution or a disruption, one thing’s clear: Neuron Drift isn’t just a band. It’s a movement—and it’s turning a generation into believers.

Want to hear for yourself?
Search Neuron Drift on Spotify and join the AI fandom wave.