World News Daily(2024-08-07) : Massive Data Breach at Background Check Firm NPD Affects 29 Billion Records
Massive Data Breach at Background Check Firm NPD Affects 29 Billion Records
National Public Data, a background check firm, suffered a cyber-attack in April. The breach exposed 29 billion personal records, making it the second-largest data leak in history. Leaked details include social security numbers, names, and addresses. The hacker, USDoD, is selling this data on underground forums. Christopher Hofmann has filed a class-action lawsuit against the company, seeking damages and corrective actions.
Background check firms like National Public Data gather personal information from non-public sources to verify identities. This incident underscores the vulnerability of such data and the potential for widespread misuse.
ScoresPolitics
Harris Selects Walz as Running Mate in Presidential Race
Harris picks Walz as running mate. She's now the Democratic nominee. Biden stepped back. Harris leads with 99% delegate support. A win makes her the first female president. She follows Clinton's footsteps. Faces Trump in November.
ScoresSecretaries of State Demand X to Address Grok Chatbot's Election Misinformation
Secretaries of state from five states penned an open letter to Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, SpaceX, and X (formerly Twitter). They demanded immediate changes to X’s AI chatbot, Grok, which spread false claims about Vice President Kamala Harris’s eligibility for the 2024 presidential ballot.
Grok, available only to X Premium subscribers, incorrectly stated that ballot deadlines had passed in nine states. This misinformation circulated widely before being corrected ten days later.
The letter, signed by secretaries from Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Washington, Michigan, and New Mexico, highlighted the urgency of ensuring accurate election information.
Musk’s handling of political content on X has been criticized. Data shows X has fewer moderation staff than other platforms, a result of significant layoffs. Despite promises of a new trust and safety center, X hired far fewer moderators than projected.
Musk’s personal contributions to misinformation include sharing a video using AI to clone Harris’s voice, making false statements about her capabilities. His posts on civil war and riots in the U.K. have also drawn criticism.
In a critical election year, the integrity of information is paramount. The actions of platform leaders and the accuracy of AI tools are under intense scrutiny.
ScoresSociety
Global Spread of Highly Virulent Superbugs: WHO Issues Warning
The World Health Organization has warned of the global spread of highly virulent Klebsiella pneumoniae, with at least 16 countries reporting its presence. The bacteria are highly resistant to drugs and can rapidly cause severe infections, even fatal ones. The scientific community has not yet fully understood its pathogenic mechanisms.
This bacterium can lead to various diseases such as pneumonia and meningitis, with highly virulent strains posing an even greater threat. ST23 strains, detected in 12 countries, are resistant to all β-lactam antibiotics. Treatment options are limited.
The WHO calls for enhanced cooperation, improved detection capabilities, understanding of epidemic dynamics, and the development of prevention strategies. Additionally, antibiotics should be used rationally to slow the development of resistance.
ScoresChina's low-orbit satellite industry chain is accelerating its development, with listed companies actively positioning themselves in the commercial space sector
China is advancing the "Thousand Sail Constellation" project, aiming to deploy 15,000 low-Earth-orbit satellites by 2030 to construct a global network. This move signifies the maturity of satellite networking technology and is expected to drive developments in communications, military, and digital economy sectors. Relevant companies such as Qianzhao Optoelectronics, Sirui New Materials, and Haige Communications are seizing the opportunity to accelerate their commercial space race strategies.
The low-Earth-orbit satellite industry chain is thriving, with listed companies actively responding. For instance, Tongyu Communication has increased its investment in its subsidiary by 80 million yuan to bolster satellite communication business. Aerospace驭星 has completed a financing round of nearly 500 million yuan, indicating a growing market demand for satellite management services.
Analysts are optimistic about the construction of low-Earth-orbit satellite constellations, believing that the market has vast potential and industrialization will rapidly advance. Geely Group, among others, has also invested in low-Earth-orbit satellite internet projects, with a total investment of 4.12 billion yuan.
Low-Earth-orbit satellites: These are satellites operating in low orbits around the Earth, primarily used for communication, navigation, and other purposes.
ScoresEconomy
Jiangsu Province establishes a Data Group to promote data marketization.
The Jiangsu Provincial Government has invested 3 billion yuan to establish a Data Group, aiming to integrate resources and promote the marketization of data. The Group will operate public data, consolidate industry data, and build a data trading platform. The goal is to apply data value in fields such as finance and transportation, to foster the integration of digital technology with the real economy, and to participate in the construction of digital government and smart cities. This move aligns with the national digital economy development strategy, and similar institutions have been established in multiple regions to promote the development of the data element market.
The goal in Jiangsu is to have digital RMB accounts basically cover large industrial enterprises by 2025.
ScoresNVIDIA Makes Its Debut on the Fortune Global 500, AI Technology Leading Industry Transformation
NVIDIA, making its debut in the 2024 Fortune Global 500 at position 222. Global demand for chips surges, with NVIDIA solidifying its position as the core of AI training. Jen-Hsun Huang promotes the popularization of humanoid robots, leading to a soaring market value and personal wealth exceeding $1060 billion. NVIDIA partners with Dell to launch Project Helix, offering customized AI solutions.
Generative AI models: AI systems trained on large datasets capable of generating content autonomously. Humanoid robots: Robotic technology that simulates human form and behavior.
ScoresGoogle Antitrust Verdict Impacts Apple's Revenue, Highlighting the Importance of AI Transformation
The court ruled that Google violated antitrust laws by paying Apple a substantial fee to ensure that Google became the default search engine for Safari. This fee has skyrocketed to over $20 billion in recent years.
Although the ruling targets Google, it significantly impacts Apple. With annual revenues exceeding $380 billion and a net profit of about $100 billion, losing this "passive income" is a heavy blow to Apple.
However, Apple is transitioning to AI, launching the "Apple Intelligence" suite, which integrates AI chatbots into software like Siri. This move opens up new revenue streams for Apple in the post-search engine era.
Apple has partnered with OpenAI, where users subscribing to ChatGPT membership result in OpenAI returning commissions to Apple. Apple is expected to reach new agreements with AI companies to avoid monopolistic accusations.
The court plans to discuss how to lift the monopoly status next month. It may require Apple to change default settings to create a fair competitive environment. Apple devices might emulate the EU by displaying multiple search engine options when the browser is first opened.
Apple anticipates that the Intelligence suite will change how users interact with their devices. Siri is being upgraded to facilitate users in making inquiries to AI across various devices.
ScoresU.S. Grants SK Hynix $450 Million for New Chip Facility
The U.S. is providing SK Hynix with $450 million for a new chip plant in Indiana, which will produce specialized chips for AI, similar to those used in Nvidia's graphics cards. SK Hynix intends to invest $3.87 billion in the project.
In addition to the grant, the U.S. government is offering $500 million in loans and a 25% tax break. This new facility is expected to create 1,000 jobs and bolster the U.S.'s competitiveness in the global chip market.
Last year, Congress approved a $39 billion subsidy for U.S. chip manufacturers. The Commerce Department has already allocated $30 billion to 15 companies, which is anticipated to draw $300 billion in private investment.
All five major chip manufacturers—TSMC, Intel, Samsung, Micron, and SK Hynix—are now establishing operations in the U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo believes this will make the U.S. supply chain for advanced chips the most secure globally.
SK Hynix CEO Kwak Noh-Jung expressed appreciation for the support and enthusiasm for the project. The U.S. is also providing $75 million to Absolics for a materials plant in Georgia, which is vital for the semiconductor industry.
ScoresCrypto ETFs Face First Major Test Amidst Market Sell-Off
Bitcoin and ether rebounded after a sharp decline. Over $370 billion was wiped out from cryptocurrency market caps in just one day. Bitcoin fell below $50,000, and ether experienced its steepest drop in three years.
The sell-off reflected a broader slump in the stock market. New spot cryptocurrency ETFs, introduced this year, have increased exposure to crypto volatility for more investors. Despite the downturn, ETF holders largely remained invested. Bitcoin ETFs saw outflows of $168 million, a minor portion of their $50 billion market cap. Ether ETFs, however, attracted over $48 million.
Analysts at Bernstein emphasize the liquidity of bitcoin ETFs, which trade around $2 billion daily. They anticipate further approvals in the third and fourth quarters, which could enhance bitcoin investment.
Morgan Stanley plans to allow its advisors to recommend BlackRock and Fidelity's spot bitcoin ETFs to high-net-worth clients. This move could encourage more firms to do the same, driven by market demand.
Jenny Johnson, CEO of Franklin Templeton, expects larger institutions to participate once they are comfortable with the settlement processes. Bernstein analysts predict that cryptocurrency will respond to macroeconomic and election events in the third quarter.
Barclays points out that ETF trading volumes remain lower than those on cryptocurrency exchanges.
ScoresTechnology
Canva Kehua Launches One-Stop AI Creation Suite
Canva可画, a visual collaboration platform, has launched "Magic Studio" in China. This AI suite offers tools for text, image creation, special effects, and editing. It also designs transitions and animations.
"Magic Studio" integrates various creative functions into one platform, simplifying the design process. This move positions Canva可画 as a leader in AI-driven design solutions.
ScoresReSyncer: Advanced Lip-Sync Technology for Unified Audio-Visual Content
ReSyncer, a new framework, tackles the challenge of lip-syncing videos to audio. It uses a rewired Style-based generator and a Transformer to blend audio and visual data seamlessly. This tech doesn't need lengthy training videos and reduces artifacts. It excels in creating virtual presenters, supports quick adjustments, and can mimic speaking styles or swap faces. The method is versatile and high-quality, suitable for various applications.
ScoresAutomattic Introduces AI Tool to Enhance WordPress Blog Readability
Automattic, the force behind WordPress.com, has rolled out "Write Brief with AI," an AI-powered tool to sharpen blog posts. It aids in clarity and brevity, part of a growing trend in AI writing aids.
The tool, currently in beta, is integrated with Jetpack, enhancing WordPress.com sites. It offers suggestions to streamline sentences and assesses language confidence, avoiding jargon that might confuse readers.
A sidebar provides a readability score, evaluating complexity, sentence length, and confidence. This feature aims to make content more accessible.
Automattic's position in the web ecosystem, as both a contributor to the open-source WordPress project and developer of WordPress.com, gives it a unique advantage. Integrating AI into its platform could significantly boost its adoption.
The tool emerged from an internal hack week project and is currently available only in English. Its potential to simplify and improve blog writing is promising.
ScoresVideo Game
Fall Guys Content Integration in Fortnite
Fall Guys content arrives in Fortnite. Runs until August 15, 2024. Two popular games merge. Elaborate multiplayer fun.
ScoresEntertainment
"How Rafał Jaki Went From Cyberpunk: Edgerunners to Shonen Jump's First Western Manga Artist"
Rafał Jaki, the creator of "Cyberpunk: Edgerunners," is moving on. There won't be a second season for the anime. Instead, he is launching "No\Name," a dark action mystery. This represents Shonen Jump's first manga made in the West.
Shonen Jump: a prominent manga magazine known for popular series like "One Piece" and "Naruto."
ScoresDisney+ Introduces Immersive Iceland Environment for Apple Vision Pro
Disney+ now offers an immersive Iceland environment for Apple Vision Pro users. This marks National Geographic's first venture into such projects for Apple's headset. The setting is Thingvellir National Park, captured in high detail by National Geographic photographers. Disney Studio Technology helped create the 3D models using photogrammetry and gigapixel panoramas. This addition complements other Disney+ immersive scenes like a Theater, Scare Floor, Avengers Tower, and Tatooine.
Photogrammetry: a technique using multiple photos to create 3D models. Gigapixel panoramas: extremely high-resolution panoramic images.
ScoresHealth
"ChatGPT Integrated into Brain-Computer Interface for Paralyzed Patients"
Synchron, a leader in brain-computer interfaces (BCI), has integrated ChatGPT into its system. This device, called Synchron Switch, helps paralyzed patients control digital tools without surgery. It enters through the neck vein, connects to the brain's motor cortex, and allows users to operate devices with thoughts.
This tech is a game-changer for those with conditions like ALS or stroke, enabling them to type, shop, and bank online. Mark, an ALS patient, now communicates more efficiently with just a thought. The system costs $50,000-$100,000, comparable to other high-end medical implants.
ScoresMicroplastics Discovered in Human Bone Marrow
Researchers discovered microplastics in human bone marrow. These minute plastic particles originate from common items such as bags and toys. They are pervasive, even within our bodies. This finding, led by Zhang Shao-kai at Henan Cancer Hospital, implies that these plastics could elevate the risk of blood cancers.
The study employed advanced techniques such as Py-GC/MS and LD-IR to detect and analyze these microplastics. It revealed an average concentration of 51.29 µg/g of microplastics in the bone marrow samples, with polyethylene and polystyrene being the most prevalent types.
This research marks the first to provide evidence of microplastic accumulation in human bone marrow, paving the way for understanding how these plastics may affect our blood-forming systems.
The results underscore the necessity to curtail plastic usage and pollution. Simple measures, such as avoiding single-use plastics, can contribute to safeguarding our health.
Microplastics: Tiny plastic fragments, often less than 5mm, resulting from the breakdown of larger plastic items.
Py-GC/MS: A method combining pyrolysis (heating to break down substances), gas chromatography, and mass spectrometry to analyze complex materials.
LD-IR: Laser diode infrared imaging, used to identify and map the distribution of specific substances.
ScoresSports
AI Commentator Makes Debut at 2024 Paris Olympics Archery Competition
SenseTime partners with SMT to introduce an AI commentator for the archery competition at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Utilizing 3D motion capture and AR effects, the technology tracks the trajectory of arrows to enhance broadcast visualization. This technology is also used in table tennis event broadcasts. SMT, a leading domestic media technology service provider, has served multiple global sports events.
Explanation:
- 3D Motion Capture: Technology that captures the movement of objects in three-dimensional space.
- AR Effects Rendering: Augmented reality technology that adds virtual elements to real scenes.
Food
Chinese Restaurant in Paris Becomes Olympic Hub
Yang Xiao Chu, Tang Zhongqiu's Chinese restaurant in Paris, became a hotspot during the Olympics. Located near the table tennis arena, it attracted Olympians, fans, and journalists. Tang, originally from Xiamen, China, opened the restaurant in France two decades ago.
The restaurant, known for its authentic Sichuan dishes, saw a surge in customers. Athletes like Ding Ning and Zhang Yining, both Olympic gold medalists, frequented the place. Tang handled the crowds calmly, ensuring quality over speed.
Chinese fans, traveling worldwide to support their players, filled the restaurant daily. The atmosphere was lively, with cheers echoing as diners watched matches on a large TV.
Tang's restaurant became a home base for many, offering a taste of home amidst the French cuisine. The success of Yang Xiao Chu during the Olympics highlighted the universal appeal of good food and community.
Scores