An outage at Amazon Web Services (AWS) in Virginia affected millions of people around the world. Many apps across different sectors, like banking and smart home devices, experienced disruptions. This event raises questions about our reliance on major tech companies for cloud services.
Key Facts
AWS is a major provider of cloud services owned by Amazon.
The outage began at a data center in Virginia.
Millions of people were affected globally by this disruption.
Various apps, including those for banking and smart home devices, were impacted.
The event highlights how dependent users are on cloud services from companies like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft.
There is a growing concern about having alternative options beyond these big tech firms for cloud services.
Dayforce is focusing on using artificial intelligence (AI) in its HR technology. The company's Chief People Officer, Amy Cappellanti-Wolf, plays a key role in testing and improving these technologies. Dayforce recently announced several updates to its offerings, including AI tools and a strategic acquisition.
Key Facts
Dayforce's Chief People Officer, Amy Cappellanti-Wolf, helps improve the company's products by testing them and providing feedback.
The company has launched new AI tools for HR, including a strategic workforce planning hub and a collaborative workspace.
Dayforce's CEO, David Ossip, reported they have more than 7,000 customers and are approaching $2 billion in annual revenue.
The company has been listed on Gartner’s Magic Quadrant for Human Capital Management for six consecutive years.
New AI tools aim to speed up processes like surveys, performance reviews, and pay equity checks.
Dayforce is planning to go private after being acquired by Thoma Bravo for $12.3 billion, but the deal still needs more approvals.
Amy Cappellanti-Wolf leads the company's internal AI strategy and operations, including the choice of ChatGPT as a tool for employees.
The Bezos Earth Fund awarded $30 million to projects using artificial intelligence (AI) for environmental conservation. These projects include monitoring biodiversity and combating illegal activities like logging and poaching. The initiative aims to enhance conservation efforts with AI and remote technologies.
Key Facts
The Bezos Earth Fund granted $30 million to 15 projects focused on AI for environmental protection.
These projects aim to address issues like climate change, biodiversity loss, and food insecurity.
The National Audubon Society is one of the awardees, using AI to monitor bird habitats in Latin America.
Remote sensors will be used to record birdsong and track biodiversity in protected areas.
Community involvement is important for collecting data and ensuring the success of conservation efforts.
The Cornell Lab of Ornithology received funding to use AI for monitoring the Pantanal wetlands in Brazil.
Edge AI will be used to analyze data locally, which is more energy-efficient and suitable for remote areas.
The FBI has uncovered a scheme where card shuffling machines were hacked to cheat in poker games. This illegal activity was part of a larger gambling operation.
Key Facts
The FBI reported that card shuffling machines were hacked.
The hacking was used to manipulate poker games.
This was part of a significant illegal gambling scheme.
The report was presented on the show "All Things Considered."
The story includes insights from a reporter covering the machines' vulnerabilities.
Russia is working to create a 'sovereign internet,' which means a separate internet system controlled by the Russian government. This plan involves banning some popular Western apps and introducing a new app called "Max" for various internet services.
Key Facts
Russia wants to create a 'sovereign internet,' a government-controlled internet system.
The Russian government has been limiting certain internet activities for years.
Facebook and Instagram are banned in Russia.
A new app called "Max" is being promoted for internet services in Russia.
The Kremlin is pushing for more control over internet use in the country.
Two teenagers appeared in court charged with hacking Transport for London (TfL) systems last year. The cyber attack disrupted services and cost TfL £39 million. A further court hearing is scheduled for 21 November, with the trial set for June 2026.
Key Facts
Two teenagers, Thalha Jubair and Owen Flowers, faced court over hacking charges related to TfL.
They were charged under the Computer Misuse Act for unauthorized computer activities.
The court session took place at Southwark Crown Court.
The cyber attack on TfL lasted three months and disrupted various services.
The incident involved disruption to live Tube info, journey history, and the Oyster app.
The National Crime Agency and City of London Police arrested the teenagers on 16 September.
The hack was linked to a group called Scattered Spider.
The attack potentially exposed personal info of about 5,000 TfL customers.
A high-tech studio is using 3D technology to change how movie car stunts are filmed. This innovation allows creators to produce realistic car scenes without risking real cars or stunt drivers.
Key Facts
The studio uses 3D technology to create movie car stunts.
This technology helps make realistic-looking car scenes.
It reduces the risk involved in traditional stunt driving.
The innovation allows movies to save on costs related to car damage.
Filmmakers can achieve complex stunts using digital tools.
The studio is featured in a full episode available on BBC iPlayer.
Members of the UK Parliament have urged major tech companies like Apple, Samsung, and Google to do more to prevent mobile phone thefts. The MPs believe that these companies could implement technical solutions to make stolen phones less useful and, therefore, less valuable. In London alone, phone thefts increased significantly in 2024, with many stolen devices being used overseas.
Key Facts
UK MPs on the Science, Innovation and Technology Committee say tech companies are not doing enough to stop phone thefts.
Apple, Samsung, and Google were mentioned as companies that could implement better anti-theft measures.
In London, 80,000 smartphones were reported stolen in 2024, up from 64,000 in 2023.
UK networks block stolen phones using a unique number called an IMEI, but this does not work internationally.
Around 78% of stolen phones in London connect to networks abroad.
MPs suggest using cloud-based blocking to make stolen phones less valuable globally.
Tech companies are criticized for not implementing available anti-theft technologies.
Apple's representative faced questioning over the lack of progress in preventing phone thefts.
A teenager in Baltimore was handcuffed by armed police after an AI system mistakenly identified a packet of crisps as a gun. The AI alert was reviewed and found to be incorrect, but a school official still notified police, leading to the incident. The event has sparked discussion over the use of AI in schools, with calls for reviewing the procedures involving AI technology.
Key Facts
A 16-year-old in Baltimore was handcuffed after AI misidentified a crisp packet as a weapon.
Eight police cars arrived, and officers handcuffed the teen, but did not arrest him.
The school’s principal had initially missed a review indicating no threat and contacted the police.
The AI's provider, Omnilert, claims their system is trained on real data to reduce false positives.
The incident has led to local politicians and others calling for a review of AI usage in schools.
Similar AI systems in other U.S. schools have faced scrutiny for inaccurate weapon detection.
A lawsuit has been filed against Blue Cross Blue Shield of Montana over a data breach that exposed personal and medical information of around 462,000 Montanans. The breach involved a third-party company and led to claims of negligence and failure to protect sensitive data. Montana State Auditor James Brown is also investigating the incident.
Key Facts
A class action lawsuit targets Blue Cross Blue Shield of Montana for a data breach affecting customer information.
The data breach happened between November 2024 and March 2025 and involved third-party company Conduent.
About 462,000 Montanans had their personal and medical data compromised.
The information at risk includes names, Social Security numbers, and medical treatment details.
Plaintiffs accuse the insurer of negligence and failure to inform those affected in a timely manner.
Montana State Auditor James Brown is investigating the breach.
BCBSMT admitted some member data was affected but stated BCBS systems were not compromised.
The lawsuit claims plaintiffs face risks of fraud, identity theft, and financial costs.
A study from Binghamton University found that individuals with certain personality traits could use physical touch to control romantic partners. The research linked manipulative touch behaviors to traits known as the "dark triad": narcissism, psychopathy, and Machiavellianism. These traits can lead to using touch as a tool for personal gain or power in relationships.
Key Facts
A new study examined the link between manipulative touch and "dark triad" personality traits.
The "dark triad" includes narcissism, psychopathy, and Machiavellianism.
Researchers surveyed over 500 college students about their touch behaviors and comfort levels.
People with dark triad traits used touch to manipulate partners, sometimes disguising it as care.
Touch can be used to gain reassurance, assert control, or signal dominance.
Men with relationship insecurity tended to seek touch for reassurance.
Women with dark triad traits were uncomfortable with touch but likely to use it manipulatively.
Dark triad personalities often have short-term, conflict-filled relationships.
U.S. tech companies are heavily investing in AI technology, racing to advance AI capabilities. However, many American workers might struggle as AI and robots potentially take over jobs, creating economic inequality. Politicians and tech leaders are warning that without preparation, this could lead to significant societal issues.
Key Facts
U.S. tech firms are investing large amounts in AI to compete globally, particularly against China.
AI advancements may lead to a growing economic divide between those involved in AI development and the general public.
Some experts, including Elon Musk and Bernie Sanders, warn that AI could replace many jobs soon.
Amazon has considered using robots over human workers, potentially impacting future hiring needs.
AI investments significantly contribute to U.S. economic growth but mainly benefit investors, not the wider population.
Concerns are rising about how AI might affect working-class Americans, a significant part of President Trump's support base.
There is limited political action in the U.S. to regulate AI or prepare for its potential impacts on jobs.
Predictions suggest that half of entry-level white-collar jobs might disappear in five years due to AI, but there is little legislative response so far.
Australian scientists in Paris studied snake bites using slow-motion video to see how fast different snake species strike. They discovered that vipers were the quickest, but some elapids were nearly as fast. The research also explored how snakes use their fangs to bite and inject venom.
Key Facts
The study was conducted by Australian scientists at a venom lab in Paris, France.
Researchers used a warm gel to mimic prey and encourage snakes to bite.
Slow-motion footage helped scientists observe the speed of different snake strikes.
Vipers were found to be the fastest snakes in the study.
Some elapid species had striking speeds almost as fast as vipers.
The study examined how snakes use their fangs to catch prey and deliver venom.
Social media, especially TikTok, helped the Hull Fair in the UK attract more international attention and visitors. Influencers from TikTok, like Kalani Smith and Paul from PT Vlogs, showcased the fair to their followers, increasing interest in the event.
Key Facts
Hull Fair, a centuries-old event, celebrated its 731st year.
The fair attracts about half-a-million visitors each year.
TikTokers like Kalani Smith and Paul from PT Vlogs posted content about their visits, getting views in the thousands to millions.
Kalani Smith, known for trying local dishes, shared his experiences at the fair with over 222,000 views on one video.
Paul from PT Vlogs posted a video of an Ice Jet Matterhorn ride that got over seven million views.
Hull City Council officials noted that influencers have significantly increased the fair's reach.
Visitor numbers to the fair are increasing yearly, partly due to social media influence.
Social media is seen as the new stage in event promotion, replacing traditional advertising like newspapers and TV.
Chen Zhi, a 37-year-old businessman, is accused by the U.S. Department of Justice of leading a large-scale cryptocurrency scam, stealing $14 billion. His operations were allegedly based in Cambodia, and the U.S. Treasury has seized cryptocurrency linked to him. His company, Cambodian Prince Group, describes him as a respected entrepreneur, despite the serious charges.
Key Facts
Chen Zhi is accused of running a cyber-fraud empire that stole $14 billion in cryptocurrency.
The U.S. Department of Justice has charged him with operating scam compounds in Cambodia.
The U.S. Treasury Department seized $14 billion worth of cryptocurrency believed to be connected to him.
Chen Zhi's company, the Prince Group, is a leading business in Cambodia.
He originally came from Fujian, China, and moved to Cambodia around 2010-2011.
He became a Cambodian citizen in 2014, allowing him to own land.
He founded the Prince Group in 2015 and later started a bank and other ventures in Cambodia.
Chen Zhi also holds citizenship in Cyprus and Vanuatu, providing access to Europe and other regions.
A new $15 billion AI data center is being built in Visakhapatnam, India, by Adani Group and Google Cloud. This project marks a major shift in India's role from a tech consumer to a tech infrastructure builder. The data center will use clean energy from Adani's renewable projects and aims to support India's growing digital market.
Key Facts
Adani Group and Google Cloud are building a $15 billion AI data center in Visakhapatnam, India.
The data center is the largest of its kind outside the United States.
Over $70 billion has been committed by Adani Group to renewable energy to support this project.
The AI center will be powered by green energy from Adani's Khavda Renewable Park in Gujarat.
The project aims to expand India’s AI market significantly, with growth expected from $1 billion in 2024 to $8 billion by 2030.
The center will provide 1 gigawatt of computing capacity using renewable energy.
The venture combines Adani’s infrastructure expertise with Google’s AI technology.
The initiative supports India's vision to become a digital powerhouse with strong AI infrastructure.
A UK tribunal ruled that Apple abused its strong market position by charging unfair commissions to app developers. The ruling could lead to Apple paying significant damages. Apple plans to appeal, arguing that the decision overlooks the benefits of its App Store.
Key Facts
The UK Competition Appeal Tribunal ruled against Apple in a lawsuit about App Store commissions.
The lawsuit claimed Apple charged developers unfairly high commissions from 2015 to 2020.
The case represented millions of UK iPhone and iPad users.
Apple plans to appeal the decision, stating it misinterprets the app economy.
The lawsuit could cost Apple up to 1.5 billion pounds in damages.
The tribunal found developers charged more than necessary and passed extra costs to consumers.
This is the first major class-action lawsuit against a tech company to go to trial in the UK.
Other tech companies, like Google, also face similar lawsuits in the UK tribunal.
A UK court ruled against Apple in a case involving claims that the company charged excessive fees on app sales, possibly leading to Apple having to pay up to £1.5 billion. The court found that Apple abused its market power, and the decision came after UK regulators labeled Apple and Google as having substantial control over mobile platforms.
Key Facts
Apple may have to pay £1.5 billion in damages after losing a UK court case.
The case involved claims that Apple charged high fees on app sales and in-app purchases.
The Competition Appeals Tribunal ruled that Apple abused its dominant market position.
The case was brought on behalf of 36 million UK iPhone and iPad users.
Apple strongly disagrees with the ruling and plans to appeal.
UK regulators recently identified Apple and Google as having significant power over mobile platforms.
If enforced, Apple might have to allow other app stores on iPhones in the UK.
Any UK iPhone or iPad user who bought apps or made in-app purchases since October 2015 might be eligible for compensation.
The UK government plans to introduce a digital ID system by 2028, applying only when individuals change jobs. The digital ID is optional for accessing services like healthcare, and there will be a public consultation about it in 2025 amid ongoing public debate.
Key Facts
The digital ID system is set to be required only when a person changes jobs, starting by 2028.
Digital IDs will not be mandatory for accessing essential services such as healthcare.
A public consultation on the digital ID plan is scheduled for late 2025.
Nearly three million people have signed a petition opposing the digital ID scheme.
The government claims digital IDs could help reduce banking fraud by preventing identity theft.
Concerns persist regarding privacy and potential surveillance issues, despite assurances of strong encryption.
Digital ID systems are already in use in countries like India, Denmark, and Singapore.
President Donald Trump pardoned Changpeng Zhao, the founder of the cryptocurrency exchange Binance, who was earlier sentenced for breaking US money laundering laws. The pardon was confirmed by the White House and follows an investigation that fined Binance $4.3 billion for helping users dodge sanctions. President Trump aims to position the US as a leader in cryptocurrency, aligning with recent efforts to expand the sector domestically.
Key Facts
President Trump pardoned Changpeng Zhao, the founder of Binance, the largest cryptocurrency exchange.
Zhao was sentenced to four months in prison in April 2024 for money laundering violations.
Binance was fined $4.3 billion by the US for allowing sanction evasion.
Zhao completed his prison sentence in September 2024.
President Trump wants the US to become the "crypto capital" of the world.
Trump has released his own digital coin and is encouraging investment in cryptocurrencies.
The White House confirmed the pardon, initially reported by the Wall Street Journal.
Binance is registered in the Cayman Islands and remains a top platform for cryptocurrency trading.
