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Anthem breach could help create focus on cybersecurity for insurers
Anthem's recent data breach should be a startling wakeup call to other insurance carriers and companies operating in the medical world.
Up to 80 million of the company's members could be at risk of identity theft, with hackers able to make off with client names, physical mailing addresses, birth dates, email addresses, Social Security numbers and medical ID data.
The cost of the breach could top $100 million, as Anthem's cyberinsurance policy will likely be exhausted following this incident.
Continue reading: Anthem breach could help create focus on cybersecurity for insurers (full post)
NVIDIA posts record financial results, riding the Maxwell wave in 2014
NVIDIA had a huge year last year, ending the second half of the year launching its new Maxwell architecture, giving birth to the great GeForce GTX 970 and GTX 980 cards. Well, the company has just posted its Q4 FY 2015 results, with revenues of $4.68 billion, up 13% from 2014.
The last three-month period was also a record for the company, with revenues of $1.25 billion, up 9% from the previous year. Gross margin for Q4 2015 was $699 million, or 55.9% which is up 1.8% over Q4 2014, and 0.7% up from Q3 2015. When it comes to the GPU business of NVIDIA, Q4 saw the company launch multiple GPUs in its GTX 900 series, with GPU revenue reaching $1.073 billion for Q4 alone, a nice 8% increase over Q3 2015, and a year-over-year gain of 13%.
The mobile sector of NVIDIA didn't do too well, with Tegra sales falling over the quarter, after multiple quarters of increasing amounts of shipments. Tegra revenue was just $112 million for Q4 2015, down from $168 million in Q3, and $131 million from a year ago. This is a 33% drop in revenue quarter-over-quarter, and 15% year-over-year. Strong GPU sales were able to offset the slump in smartphone and tablet SoC sales, but the automotive sector for Tegra is doing well for the company. For Q1 FY 2016 (doesn't this get confusing, fast?) has the company expecting revenues of $1.16 billion, or so.
Continue reading: NVIDIA posts record financial results, riding the Maxwell wave in 2014 (full post)
Intel fully embracing Internet of Things transition to connected tech
Intel isn't sure what will happen with the booming Internet of Things (IoT) market, but the Silicon Valley company wants to make sure it is involved.
During CES last month, Intel unveiled the Curie chip designed for wearables and other connected technologies - which it hopes will be introduced in a variety of different future products. Intel predicts there will more than 800 million Web-connected homes over the next three years, and that number will only grow higher.
"What we see in that segment of the market, the Internet of Things, there's lots of innovation going on," said Stacy Smith, CFO of Intel, in a statement to CNET. "If anybody tells you they know who's going to be the winner three years from now, they're making it up, because nobody knows."
Continue reading: Intel fully embracing Internet of Things transition to connected tech (full post)
Millions of Facebook users think the Internet doesn't exist
There are millions of people that use Facebook, that think that everything outside of it - you know, the Internet - doesn't exist. According to Helani Galpaya, who surveyed a large number of Indonesians, they said that they didn't use the Internet.
But, when they were in focus groups, these same people talked about how much time they spent on the largest social network on the Internet; Facebook. Galpaya works at LIRNEasia, a think tank, who said: "It seemed that in their minds, the Internet did not exist; only Facebook". QZ has a large piece on the matter, but diving into it, the article says that Facebook CEO Sheryl Sandberg says that in the developing world, "people will walk into phone stores and say 'I want Facebook'".
Continuing on that statement, Facebook's Head of Localization and Internationalization, Iris Orriss, says that "Awareness of the Internet in developing countries is very limited. In fact, for many users, Facebook is the internet, as it's often the only accessible application".
Continue reading: Millions of Facebook users think the Internet doesn't exist (full post)
Samsung promises 'the future of cameras' in its next flagship handset
We only just reported about the Galaxy S6 Edge and its soon-to-be awesome benchmarking abilities, but the boss of Samsung's Camera R&D, DongHoon Jang, has teased that its upcoming 2015 flagship smartphone will have "the future of cameras".
Jang also said that the new flagship handset "will be intelligent and do all the thinking for users, allowing them to take amazing pictures under any conditions, without having to worry about anything more than just pressing the shutter button". Rear-facing cameras don't need to have the most megapixels, as we've seen with Apple's iPhones over the years. Let's hope that Samsung doesn't just throw in a 20-megapixel camera and hope to win, and that the software, speed, and the entire package is ready to be "the future of cameras".
Continue reading: Samsung promises 'the future of cameras' in its next flagship handset (full post)
NVIDIA's secret unveiling at GDC 2015 to be an Android-powered console
We know that NVIDIA will be hosting a special "Made to Game" event on March 3 during the Game Developers Conference (GDC) 2015, but the company hasn't said anything outside of the new product will "redefine the future of gaming". No details, not even so much of a tease of what it could be.
We know that it has been five years in the making, but what we're going to report is that it will be an Android-powered console. We're sure that it will be powered by a Tegra processor, most likely the Tegra X1 that NVIDIA unveiled at CES 2015 earlier this year. It would make sense, as NVIDIA has been pushing in that direction with its Shield line for a while now.
It wasn't long ago that we reported on a Tegra X1-powered Shield Tablet, but maybe it is the new Android-powered console that we here at TweakTown think it will arrive as? We have a Shield Tablet that would be close to an Android-powered console as it is, the Shield Controller which could connect to it, but a new 4K-capable gaming box that could bake down to 1080p 60FPS? Yes, please. This is all speculation until NVIDIA unveils the new device on March 3, which isn't too far away from now.
Continue reading: NVIDIA's secret unveiling at GDC 2015 to be an Android-powered console (full post)
Purported Galaxy S6 Edge thrashes Apple iPad Air 2 in new benchmarks
We are expecting a few new handsets to be unveiled at Samsung Unpacked 2015 on March 1, but there's a lot of time between then and now so we can enjoy some leaks regarding performance numbers in the meantime.
PhoneArena has noticed a new multi-core Geekbench result that sees the Galaxy S6 Edge, something Samsung hasn't even announced yet, beating the Apple iPad Air 2, which is the current champion of that benchmark - even though it's a tablet, the new Samsung smartphone beats it. PhoneArena reported: "[The Galaxy S6 Edge's] octa-core Exynos 7420 chipset managed to crush it with 1,492 points in the single-core, and 5,077 points in the multi-core test. To put things in perspective, this multi-core result is way higher than any other mobile at the moment, including the iPad Air 2, the reigning champ, which scores 4,532".
Switching the conversation over to the Galaxy S6, it was spotted on an AnTuTu benchmark where it blew the pants off of anything else on AnTuTu's database. We should expect the Galaxy S6 to rock Samsung's own Exynos 7240 processor clocked at 2.1GHz, 3GB of RAM, 32GB of flash storage, a 20-megapixel rear-facing camera, 5-megapixel front-facing snapper, Android 5.0.2 Lollipop and a 5.1-inch display with a resolution of 2560x1440.
Continue reading: Purported Galaxy S6 Edge thrashes Apple iPad Air 2 in new benchmarks (full post)
This phone doesn't do much and that's the point - OwnFone's US version
With 37 days to go on their Kickstarter and £9,658 ($14,700 US) pledged out of a £200,000 ($304,880) goal - The OwnFone has an uphill battle to face. This device isn't exactly a new thing, seeing success in the English market - however they're now wanting to expand globally and are using this campaign as a launching platform. But what exactly is it?
Described as "the world's first 2D/3D printed mobile phone that calls the numbers you need," the OwnFone is a small, light and portable device that allows you to customize the face to suit exactly who you wish to dial. You can throw in pictures of your friends, simple catchwords like "Mum" and "Uncle" or even a short list of names.
With no screen, internet connectivity or text messaging services, the OwnFone sets out to be a great child phone or emergency alternative. It's perfectly safe for your children, meaning if they're stuck or lost they can take out the phone, press the "Dad" button and chat away.
Continue reading: This phone doesn't do much and that's the point - OwnFone's US version (full post)
Report finds automakers failing to secure connected cars
Automakers want to embrace connected technology in new vehicles, but have failed to ensure proper cybersecurity protocols are available, according to Sen. Edward Markey (D - Mass.). The Senator believes almost all connected vehicles are vulnerable to some type of security risk, according to Markey's staff.
Following a number of security-related incidents showed connected cars are vulnerable, Markey wants to know what safeguards are being put in place to keep car owners secure. The report indicated "there is a clear lack of appropriate security measures to protect drivers against hackers who may be able to take control of a vehicle or against those who may wish to collect and use personal driver information."
"Drivers have come to rely on these new technologies, but unfortunately the automakers haven't done their part to protect us from cyberattacks or privacy invasions," Sen. Markey said in a statement.
Continue reading: Report finds automakers failing to secure connected cars (full post)
Will 2015 be the 'year of the healthcare hack' wonder security pros
The recent breach of Anthem was a brutal wakeup call that cybercriminals want personal records, and healthcare data is near the top of their list. UnitedHealth Group, Aetna and other groups have issued cybercrime-related warnings since 2011, but it didn't seem like a major concern among members until recently.
"A name, address, social and a medical identity... that's incredibly easy to monetize fairly quickly," said Bob Gregg, CEO of ID Experts, in a statement published by Reuters. Cybersecurity experts have warned that health-related data tends to be extremely lucrative on the black market.
Organized groups will try to target healthcare providers in an effort to compromise insurance companies, hospitals, doctor's offices, and medical equipment makers - with companies urged to improve their cybersecurity protocols.
Continue reading: Will 2015 be the 'year of the healthcare hack' wonder security pros (full post)
Popular Android dating apps pose cybersecurity risks
More than 60 percent of popular dating mobile apps pose significant cybersecurity risks, with personal user information and corporate data at risk.
Twenty six of 41 dating apps available for Google Android had medium or high severity vulnerabilities, according to the IBM Security researchers. In addition, dating apps are being used to download malware, along with credit card data stolen and GPS information used to track movements.
"Many consumers use and trust their mobile phones for a variety of applications," said Caleb Barlow, VP of IBM Security. "It is this trust that gives hackers the opportunity to exploit vulnerabilities like the ones we found in these dating apps. Consumers need to be careful not to reveal too much personal information on these sites as they look to build a relationship."
Continue reading: Popular Android dating apps pose cybersecurity risks (full post)
Mobile payments expected to see boost in 2015, thanks to Apple Pay
A growing number of retailers are adopting various forms of mobile payments, and while consumers still prefer cash and debit/credit card payments, mobile payment could be on the upswing. US mobile payment volume will reach close to 15 percent, growing at 172 percent compound annual growth rate (CAGR) by 2019, according to a new Business Insider Intelligence report.
Apple Pay is the early leader among mobile payment services, though CurrentC and other platforms will be able to attract non-iPhone users. Google Android solutions, such as Softcard and Google Wallet, have seen increased interest following the launch of Apple Pay.
Mobile payments may still be in its infancy, and consumers are worried about security and ease-of-use, but providers will have time to work out the kinks. Meanwhile, additional retailers are expected to explore options available to give consumers more payment options at checkout.
Continue reading: Mobile payments expected to see boost in 2015, thanks to Apple Pay (full post)
Smartphone kill switch legislation has led to drop in phone theft
The introduction of smartphone kill switches by manufacturers and wireless carriers helped reduce the number of device thefts in New York City, San Francisco, and London, supporters say. Apple iPhone theft in San Francisco dropped 40 percent, reported incidents slid 25 percent in New York, and thefts in London were cut in half.
The software kill switch allows phone owners to lock lost or stolen devices, along with bricking devices so they cannot be used or sold on the black market.
"The huge drops in smartphone theft have occurred since the kill switch has been on the market are evidence that our strategy is making people safer in our cities, and across the world," said Eric Schneiderman, New York State Attorney General, in a statement.
Continue reading: Smartphone kill switch legislation has led to drop in phone theft (full post)
Nation states launching cyberespionage attacks becoming normal
It's not just the United States and UK launching sophisticated cyberespionage attacks against foreign government states, with China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, and other nations increasingly jumping into the fun. Groups in China and Russia have been linked to major data breaches, such as Target, The Home Depot, Anthem and Sony Pictures, with future breaches expected to happen.
China is the most active country involved in launching cyberattacks, routinely targeting US infrastructure - and other lucrative targets, such as financial institutions and government departments. As witnessed by CrowdStrike, skilled Chinese hacker groups are able to adapt their strategies while avoiding detection.
The Obama administration has publicly criticized China for its cyberespionage activities, but has been unable to launch any meaningful political crackdowns.
Continue reading: Nation states launching cyberespionage attacks becoming normal (full post)
Ransomware attacks increasing, as cybercriminals perfect their skills
Consumers and business users face a wide variety of different cyberattacks, and security experts are increasingly concerned about ransomware. Ransomware, a custom form of malware designed to hijack computers and work files, typically encrypt vital documents - unless a ransom is paid.
Microsoft Windows PC users face the largest threat from CryptoWall, a ransomware variation that has uncrackable encryption and uses anonymity networks to avoid detection.
Another nasty form of ransomware recently discovered is Invincea, which delivers the payload straight to system memory instead of targeting files on a hard drive.
Continue reading: Ransomware attacks increasing, as cybercriminals perfect their skills (full post)
Report: Almost half of jobs under pressure from robotic advancements
The development of robotics and big data are putting pressure on the US workforce, with almost half of US jobs facing pressure from robots, according to a report issued by Citigroup and University of Oxford researchers.
Robots and automated technology have had an impact in factories and mid-level positions, but developments could lead to increased pressure on low-skill occupations, the report notes. To make matters worse, manufacturers are adopting the use of more robots in factories and offices, with the humanoids able to better complete tasks.
"The bulk of service occupations, where the most US job growth has occurred over the past decades, are now at risk," according to the report. "Already the market for personal and household service robots is growing by about 20 percent annually - a trend that is likely to continue."
Continue reading: Report: Almost half of jobs under pressure from robotic advancements (full post)
Atari announces next-gen Asteroids, launches it as a survival game
I'm sure you remember Asteroids, but I bet you didn't see this one coming. Atari has just teased a multiplayer-focused survival game for the PC through Steam's Early Access program, called Asteroids: Outpost.
Atari describes the game as: "Set in the distant future, Asteroids: Outpost thrusts players into a harsh deep space environment. While on a massive, unforgiving asteroid, players face the challenges of exploring the asteroid, collecting resources, scavenging for ore, crafting equipment, and expanding their territory as they build highly customized bases - all while forming alliances and fighting off other players in challenging multiplayer gameplay. Recurring showers of smaller asteroids represent a source of wealth and a threat as players shoot down these incoming projectiles to defend their claims and harvest their components".
Continue reading: Atari announces next-gen Asteroids, launches it as a survival game (full post)
STALKER developer teases new game, will defend the STALKER franchise
The developer behind the STALKER franchise, GSC Game World, has begun teasing its upcoming game. There's nothing known about it just yet, but the developer has also come out swinging for its STALKER franchise, saying that it will defend it from other developers.
Back in February 2011, GSC Game World terminated any and all work on its next STALKER game, closing the company down. The core team behind STALKER went off to Vostok Games, but Public Relations Director for GSC Game World, Valentine Yeltyshev has said that he stepped away from the games industry entirely, moving into a career on the motorcross circuit. He's now back with GSC Game World, but he's had quite a few years.
Yeltyshev has said that GSC Game World is back, and that they have an eye on West Games' STALKER: Apocalypse. STALKER: Apocalypse hit Kickstarter, but disappeared pretty quickly, taking to a service called Wfunder. Wfunder is a crowdfunding platform that is similar to Kickstarter, but isn't based in the US. Yeltyshev has dismissed West Games, saying that the team doesn't have what it takes, or the permission, to make a STALKER game. He said: "We started to develop a Flash-based, a web-based STALKER before 2011. An isometric, open-world STALKER. And that was these guys [that make up the core of West Games]. When we realized that this project would not be as good as we wanted it to be, we closed the project".
Continue reading: STALKER developer teases new game, will defend the STALKER franchise (full post)
Spider-Man officially becomes part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe
One of the juiciest tidbits revealed by the crippling Sony Pictures back in December, was a series of high level conversations between outgoing Sony Pictures CEO Amy Pascal, Sony CEO Kaz Hirai and the owner of Marvel, Walt Disney CEO Bob Iger which had intended to make the Spider-Man character part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, which encompasses characters from 'The Avengers' and last year's mega-hit 'Guardians of the Galaxy'. Whilst talks broke down, there was a glimmer of hope for fans that has just been realised.
Yesterday, Sony and Disney issues a joint press-release announcing that the two companies have come to an agreement which new Sony Pictures chair Michael Lynton describes as the "right decision for the franchise, for our business, for Marvel, and for the fans". The agreement means that not only will Spider-man "first appear in a Marvel film from Marvel's Cinematic Universe" (slated to be 'Captain America: Civil War') but will also appear in a stand-alone film to be released on July 28, 2017 which will be co-produced by Marvel head Kevin Feige.
However, some fans will be disappointed following the news that the intriguing plot threads from the newly rebooted series which started in 2012 with 'The Amazing Spider-Man' and continued into 'The Rise of Electro' will not see a conclusion, with the series being abandoned, with Andrew Garfield will no longer play the character.
Continue reading: Spider-Man officially becomes part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (full post)
Embedded DisplayPort 1.4a announced, capable of providing 8K laptops
VESA has just announced the latest version of its Embedded DisplayPort (eDP) 1.4a specification, which is the successor to version 1.4 which was introduced close to two years ago now. The new 1.4a revision is capable of an insane 8K resolution in laptops, which is 7680x4320.
The new eDP 1.4a standard features a new Display Stream Compression (DSC) standard (1.1), and enhanced segmented panel display architecture. On top of that, some other magic is sprinkled inside of the new display standard, which will allow OEMs to create Ultra HD panels for embedded applications, with support for up to 7680x4320, or 8K*4K. eDP 1.4a is capable of 8.1GB/sec per late, where the GPU-to-display interface is split in two, or even four screen segments. This provides a maximum link bandwidth of up to 32.4GB/sec, which will allow for 8K at 60Hz or 4K at 120Hz with 10-bit color.
Now, I'm sure you're why... why mobile/laptops? Well, VR. That's why. We're being teased the future of mobile and laptop displays, with a huge 8K at 60Hz or 4K at 120Hz, which is exactly where VR needs to go. Oculus VR is probably rubbing their hands with glee, so we're going to reach out to them now and see if they have anything to say about this news.
Continue reading: Embedded DisplayPort 1.4a announced, capable of providing 8K laptops (full post)


