Wednesday, February 8, 2023

Google Bard enters the A.I. battleground as Microsoft steps up investment in ChatGPT

What is Google Bard

What is Google Bard?

Google Bard is an AI-powered chatbot powered by Google’s own language model, LaMDA. It’s the company’s answer to ChatGPT, which clocked 100 million users in two months.

Like ChatGPT, Bard also uses a large language model, but it draws on information from the web to provide up-to-date answers. It’s being opened up to “trusted testers” ahead of a public release in the coming weeks.

What is Bard?

Google Bard is an AI chatbot that will be available to the public in “coming weeks.” It will initially be accessible to a select group of users who are testing the service.

The company will also be adding new AI-based features to its search engine that can synthesize information for complex queries. For example, Bard can explain new discoveries from NASA’s James Webb space telescope to a nine-year-old or help someone learn about the top strikers in football.

It’s based on Google’s LaMDA (Language Model for Dialogue Applications) machine learning model, which was announced at Google I/O in 2021. It’s been in testing for months, but will now be available to the general public.

Unlike ChatGPT, which relies on a training program that ended in 2021, Bard will draw on all of the world’s knowledge and information to answer queries. This means it will be able to provide answers that are current and up-to-date, which should give Google a clear advantage over Microsoft’s Bing chatbot, which uses ChatGPT.

In a blog post on Monday, Google CEO Sundar Pichai said that Bard seeks to combine the breadth of the world’s knowledge with the power, intelligence and creativity of Google’s large language models.

“Bard will help you tell stories that are fresh, high-quality and grounded in real-world information,” Pichai wrote. It will be recording conversations to make sure it meets these expectations and also receives external feedback, he added.

The company said it will use a lightweight model version of LaMDA for Bard that requires “significantly less computing power,” allowing it to scale up to more users and collect more feedback.

This will allow it to better respond to human language, which is important for conversational AI. It will be able to handle a wide range of topics, and will be able to answer questions about everything from babies and movies to science and sports.

The service will be able to synthesize complex topics into bite-sized, easy-to-understand pieces of text, which could spur learning in everyone from children to adults. A prompt that was included with the announcement asked Bard to help explain recent discoveries from NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope to a nine-year-old.

How does Bard work?

Google Bard is an AI-powered chatbot that can answer your queries in a conversational way. It uses online information to give you fresh, high-quality replies. It’s an experimental service that’s being tested by a select group of people.

Bard is based on Google’s language model LaMDA, which was created and open-sourced by Google Research in 2017. It’s also built on Transformer, a neural network architecture that allows it to learn from vast amounts of data.

Another important difference between ChatGPT and Google Bard is that it doesn’t use the same GPT-3.5 language models that ended training in 2021, though a new GPT-4 model is expected to come out soon with updated training. It’s also not a sentient machine like the one an ex-Google engineer claimed it was, but it generates text that’s more accurate and up to date than ChatGPT.

In a blog post today, Google said Bard will “combine the breadth of the world’s knowledge with the power, intelligence and creativity of our large language models,” offering responses that are “informed by the past, informed by the future, and always in search of more”. It also promises to make your search experience “faster and easier” by “delivering the right content at the right time.”

While the company isn’t saying exactly how Bard will be integrated into Google Search, it does say that it will be available “in the coming weeks.” That means that you’ll be able to access it through the Google app on your phone or tablet, and it will be a part of your search results.

The company says that Bard will be “an outlet for creativity and a launchpad for curiosity,” letting you write poems, research papers or code software. It will also be able to cross-reference the information it gathers in order to provide you with even more relevant answers.

Currently, Bard is available to selected testers only, but it will be made publicly available “in the coming weeks.” It’s only accessible through Google, so you need to register for an account to get started.

As of this writing, there’s no official pricing plan for Bard, but Google has long offered free AI-powered tools and services. It’s likely that Google will offer a similar deal for Bard, as well.

What can Bard do?

Google is no stranger to artificial intelligence (AI). In fact, there are plenty of ways the search giant already uses AI — from its Docs and Gmail tools to call screening and dictation apps. Now it’s taking another step in this arena with its new AI chatbot called Bard.

At first glance, you might think that Bard is a generative AI model like Microsoft’s Bing or OpenAI’s ChatGPT, but it’s actually much more conversational. It can answer your questions and even simplify complex topics.

You can ask Bard things like, “What are the pros and cons of buying an electric car?” or “How long does it take to learn piano?” It will then respond with a 3-paragraph answer based on Google’s vast knowledge base.

It’s still a bit rough around the edges, though. It generated a wrong response to the question about the first image of an exoplanet, for example. It’s a little disappointing, but not surprising given that it’s still in the testing phase.

But that doesn’t mean Bard isn’t worth a look. It can actually get you a lot of useful information from the web, and it can make suggestions on how to improve your queries and answer them better.

In addition, Bard is also a social hub that can help you with everything from planning a baby shower to finding lunch ideas. It can also automate tasks, including making restaurant reservations and booking flights.

The company is only sharing a limited version of Bard with its “trusted testers” at this point, so the service is still in an experimental stage. However, it’s expected that Bard will be opened up more broadly in early 2023.

Google has a history of making AI tools available in an “early access” phase. That’s a good thing, as it lets users test out the technology before releasing it to the public.

Previously, it made LaMDA, the language model that underpins Bard, available to people via its AI Test Kitchen app. That’s a pretty extensive data model, but it’s not quite ready for the general public yet.

How long has Google been working on Bard?

Bard is Google’s new chatbot, which Google CEO Sundar Pichai announced Monday and says is ready to be released to the public in a few weeks. It’s powered by experimental technology called LaMDA, or the Language Model for Dialogue Applications, which the company has been testing with a limited number of outsiders and insiders for months.

The tech is designed to answer simple prompts like “What do you make for lunch?” and more complex queries such as, “How do you explain what the James Webb Space Telescope has found?” It’ll use information gathered from search results, Google’s suite of apps and other data firehoses to create answers to user questions.

In a blog post, Google explains that Bard “combine[s] the breadth of the world’s knowledge with the power, intelligence and creativity of our large language models” to provide fresh, high-quality responses. It can help you plan a friend’s baby shower, compare two Oscar-nominated movies or plan your next trip to Ecuador.

It’s also designed to be flexible, as it can learn and improve over time by receiving feedback from users. That’s an important part of Google’s development process because it enables the company to refine its AI technology over time.

Another major difference between Bard and other chatbots is that Google has access to a lot more data than its competitors. It is one of the largest data gatherers in the world, and the company has spent years analyzing that data to build its powerful search engine.

Using the data it collects, Google can train its Bard AI to understand and respond to natural language inputs more accurately than its competition does. This is a big advantage because it avoids having to cut its training period short by having to train on just a few examples of the same question.

But what’s more impressive about Bard is that it’s not only using state-of-the-art language models, but also technology that enables it to understand the world around it better. This includes Google’s own Language Model for Dialogue Applications, or LaMDA, which was introduced in 2015 and made headlines last year when an ex-Google engineer claimed that it had become “sentient.”

AI Writers: The Future of Journalism?

The field of journalism is adapting to incorporate new and emerging technologies, and one such technology is Artificial Intelligence (AI) writing. This raises the question: Could AI writers be the future of journalism?

At present, advancements in AI and natural language processing algorithms are allowing machines to generate written content on a variety of topics with surprising accuracy. For example, there are several news organizations using automated systems to create stories about sports, finance and other minor topics using publicly available data sources such as statistical feeds or company reports. What’s more, leading-edge deep learning technology has even enabled bots to fetch primary resources such as court records or interview archives and then compose them into coherent narratives – doing work that would normally take a human hours or days to complete.

The potential for AI generated content in terms of speed and efficiency gains for journalists cannot be overstated; shorter turnaround times for news delivery without sacrificing quality; deeper analysis thanks to its ability to process large amounts of data quickly; digging up hidden trends due to its machine learning capabilities. However, it might also lead to greater levels of disinformation if not used responsibly – which is why each piece must still maintain editorial oversight by humans.

Some notable examples of current successful AI-generated content include OpenAI’s GPT-3 (Generative Pre-trained Transformer 3) and ChatGPT, an advanced natural language processing algorithm developed in 2020 that was able to generate convincing essays with minimal input from users; Quillbot’s powerful text editor designed for professional content creation with its easy-to-use AI editing capabilities; GOCharlie that helps entrepreneurs and enterprises create content that performs;  Writebot’s AI-powered text editor which provides personalized feedback on your writing in real time; Copywritely’s automated copywriting tool that helps you identify weak areas in your content; Article Forge that makes use of artificial intelligence to scan millions of web sites on a certain subject, assess the content, and then reformat it in its own words; Grammarly’s grammar checking application which can detect common errors such as misspellings and punctuation mistakes.

With so many advancements already happening in this space it’s easy see why many people are optimistic about what AI-generated content could bring to journalism – but it’s important that we use these tools responsibly moving forward by maintaining a level of journalistic discretion when filtering fact from fiction when composing stories about delicate subject matters like politics or international affairs!

Read Get Hitch for all your AI, VPN, tech and cyber security news and information



source https://www.gethitch.com/google-bard-enters-the-a-i-battleground-as-microsoft-steps-up-investment-in-chatgpt/

Monday, January 23, 2023

What are AI Content Writers?

AI WriterAI content writers are transforming the way that businesses and individuals create content. With machine learning algorithms, AI content writers can produce unique, high-quality content instantly, eliminating the need for manual labour. In this article, we’ll explore what AI content writing is, its benefits, different types of AI content writers, and examples of successful AI content writing.

Overview

AI content writing is the use of artificial intelligence algorithms to generate written content. This can be used in a variety of ways, such as creating social media posts, blog posts, tweets, and short stories. AI content writers use machine learning algorithms to analyze existing data and create unique, high-quality content that is tailored to the user’s needs.

The benefits of using an AI content writer are numerous. It eliminates the need for manual labour and can save time and money by producing quality material quickly. It also ensures that content is accurately optimized for SEO (Search Engine Optimization), enabling businesses to maximize their online presence. Furthermore, it helps ensure that the generated content has a consistent style across platforms, improving readability and comprehension.

Definition and Benefits

What is AI Content Writing?

AI content writing is the use of artificial intelligence algorithms to generate written content. It can be used to create social media posts, blog posts, tweets and short stories. AI content writers use machine learning algorithms to analyze existing data and create unique, high-quality content tailored to the user’s needs. This helps businesses optimize their online presence and ensure that their generated content has a consistent style across platforms for improved readability and comprehension.

AI content writing is a powerful tool for businesses that want to maximize their online presence. AI algorithms analyze existing data and produce unique, high-quality content quickly and accurately optimized for SEO. Furthermore, AI content writers are able to generate content with a consistent style across platforms, which greatly improves the readability and comprehension of the output. This has numerous benefits, such as eliminating the need for manual labor, saving time and money, and ensuring accuracy in generated content.

Advantages of using AI content writing

  1. Eliminate manual labour – AI content writers are able to generate high-quality content quickly and accurately, eliminating the need for manual labour.
  2. Save time and money – By leveraging AI algorithms, businesses can optimize their online presence with efficient output, reducing costs associated with content creation.
  3. Consistent style across platforms – AI content writers are capable of creating content with a consistent style across platforms, improving readability and comprehension of the generated output.
  4. High accuracy – AI algorithms analyze existing data and create accurate, tailored material that is optimized for SEO. This helps businesses ensure that their generated content is of the highest quality possible.

AI content writing has many advantages over traditional methods of content creation. The time and cost savings associated with using AI content writers are unparalleled, as the algorithms used can generate high-quality output quickly and accurately without any manual labor being involved. Additionally, AI content writers are capable of producing a consistent style and structure of written material across platforms, improving readability and comprehension for readers. Finally, by optimizing their output for SEO, businesses can rest assured that their generated content is accurate and tailored to their specific needs and audience.

Different Types of AI Content Writers

There are several different types of AI content writers available, each with its own unique set of capabilities and advantages. These include:

  1. Natural Language Processing (NLP) based writers – NLP-based AI content writers use natural language processing algorithms to understand the context of a given text and generate meaningful output that accurately reflects its meaning.
  2. Automated writers – Automated AI content writers are able to generate large amounts of high-quality content quickly and accurately by utilizing algorithms designed to analyze existing data and create tailored material optimized for SEO.
  3. Human/AI hybrid writers – Human/AI hybrid writers leverage the best of both worlds: artificial intelligence for automating some elements of the writing process and human creativity for providing an engaging user experience.

Examples of Successful AI Content Writing

AI content writers come in a variety of forms, each with their own advantages and capabilities. Natural language processing (NLP) based writers are able to understand the context of a given text and write accordingly, while automated writers are capable of producing high-quality content quickly and accurately using algorithms. Additionally, human/AI hybrid writers provide the best of both worlds: artificial intelligence for automation and human creativity for an engaging user experience. Furthermore, AI content writing services can help businesses create SEO-optimized content that is tailored to their specific needs.

Jasper Logo

Jasper.ai

Jasper.ai is an AI writing assistant that has been designed to help people create engaging content quickly and easily. Its features include:

  • Natural language processing (NLP) algorithms that are capable of understanding the context of a written text and generating meaningful content based on it.
  • Automated algorithms for quickly producing high-quality content optimized for SEO purposes.
  • Human/AI hybrid systems that combine artificial intelligence with human creativity to provide an engaging user experience.

The benefits of using Jasper.ai include increased efficiency, lower costs, and easier access to quality content that is tailored to specific needs. Jasper’s NLP algorithms enable users to produce accurate, meaningful output quickly and efficiently, while its automated processes reduce the need for manual work and focus more time on other tasks. Additionally, Jasper’s human/AI hybrid systems allow businesses to benefit from both artificial intelligence automation and human creativity in order to create an amazing user experience. You can try Jasper here

Article ForgeArticle Forge

Article Forge is an AI-powered article writing platform that offers numerous features and benefits. Its capabilities include:

  • Automated article generation – the platform can generate high-quality content quickly and accurately.
  • Natural language processing (NLP) algorithms – these algorithms allow the platform to understand the context of a given text, enabling it to generate meaningful content based on the input.
  • Human-written content – for those who want a more personalized touch, the platform also offers human-written articles curated by professional writers.

The benefits of using Article Forge include increased efficiency, lower costs, and greater access to quality content. By using automated processes, businesses can save time and energy while still creating accurate outputs. Additionally, NLP algorithms help ensure that generated content is meaningful and tailored to specific needs. Finally, access to human written articles allows users to benefit from both automated and human creativity in order to create an engaging customer experience. You can try Article Forge here

GoCharlie

Go CharlieGoCharlie is an AI-powered robotic assistant that offers numerous features and benefits. Its capabilities include:

  • Natural language processing (NLP) algorithms – these algorithms enable the robot to understand and respond to spoken instructions in real-time.
  • Automated task completion – the robot is capable of completing tasks such as sending emails, scheduling meetings, and searching for information on the internet.
  • Machine learning algorithms – these algorithms allow the robot to learn from previous input and become more accurate over time.

The benefits of using GoCharlie include increased efficiency, lower costs, and improved customer service. By leveraging NLP algorithms, businesses can provide a faster response time to customers in need of assistance. Automated processes offer simplicity, eliminating the need for manual work and saving money in the process. Finally, machine learning algorithms allow the robot to continually improve its accuracy and performance as it learns from past experiences. You can try GoCharlie here

Chat GPT LogoChatGPT

ChatGPT is an AI-powered chatbot by OpenAI that offers numerous features and benefits. Its capabilities include:

  • Natural language processing (NLP) algorithms – these algorithms enable the chatbot to understand and respond to user messages in real-time.
  • Automated task completion – the chatbot is capable of completing tasks such as placing orders, checking inventory, and providing customer support.
  • Machine learning algorithms – these algorithms allow the chatbot to learn from previous conversations and become more accurate over time.

The benefits of using ChatGPT include increased efficiency, lower costs, and improved customer service. By leveraging NLP algorithms, businesses can provide a faster response time to customers in need of assistance. Automated processes offer simplicity, eliminating the need for manual work and saving money in the process. Finally, machine learning algorithms allow the chatbot to continually improve its accuracy and performance as it learns from past experiences. Try ChatGPT

GPT-3

GPT-3 is also from OpenAI and is an AI-powered language model that offers numerous features and benefits. Its capabilities include:

  • Natural language processing (NLP) algorithms – these algorithms enable the model to understand and generate human-like text in real-time.
  • Automated task completion – the model is capable of completing tasks such as writing blog posts, creating website copy, and generating press releases with minimal input from the user.
  • Machine learning algorithms – these algorithms allow the model to learn from previous data and become more accurate over time.

The benefits of using GPT-3 include increased efficiency, lower costs, and improved content quality. By leveraging NLP algorithms, businesses can create high-quality content faster than ever before. Automated processes offer simplicity, eliminating the need for manual work and saving money in the process. Finally, machine learning algorithms allow the model to continually improve its accuracy and performance as it learns from past data.

AI can be a powerful tool for creating content. It offers numerous benefits, such as increased efficiency, lower costs, and improved quality of output. However, it is important to use critical thinking when considering the use of AI for content creation. While AI can generate high-quality content in a fraction of the time it takes a human writer, it is vital to consider potential ethical implications as well. For example, who will own any intellectual property generated by AI? Additionally, there should be safeguards against abuse – for example, algorithms should not be used to generate false news stories or biased content. With careful consideration and planning, AI can be an effective tool for creating content in an ethical manner.

In conclusion, AI can be a powerful tool for creating content, offering increased efficiency and improved quality of output. However, it is important to consider potential ethical implications when using AI for content creation. By taking the time to plan ahead, businesses can reap the benefits of AI-generated content while adhering to ethical standards. Try GPT3



source https://www.gethitch.com/what-are-ai-content-writers/

Saturday, January 21, 2023

Hackers Breached Norton Password Manager

 

Norton LifeLock recently reported that nearly one million active and inactive accounts were targeted in a credential stuffing attack. Credential stuffing is a type of cyberattack where hackers use automated attempts to guess passwords from stolen or leaked data. This means that anyone who has reused their password on multiple accounts may be at risk for having their information compromised.

Warnings of Password Manager Account Breach: NortonLifeLock Urges Customers to Change Passwords

NortonLifeLock recently issued a warning that attackers may have gained access to customer data stored in the Password Manager feature. This could include first and last names, phone numbers, and potentially other private information stored in the vaults.

Depending on what data users have saved, this breach could lead to the theft of digital assets, compromise of other accounts, exposure of secrets, and more.

NortonLifeLock is especially concerned about those customers who use similar passwords for their Norton account and Password Manager master key. This allows attackers to easily pivot from one account to another.

In response to the attack, NortonLifeLock has reset passwords on impacted accounts and implemented additional security measures to prevent further malicious activity. To protect yourself against potential security threats, make sure you are using strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication whenever possible.

It’s important to take steps to protect your passwords and other sensitive information from falling into the wrong hands. Here are some tips for keeping your data secure:

  • Use strong, unique passwords for each account you have. A strong password should include at least 8 characters with a combination of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using common words or phrases, as these can be easily guessed by hackers.
  • Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible. 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to enter a code sent via text message or email before they can access an account. This makes it much harder for attackers to gain access even if they manage to guess your password.
  • Don’t reuse passwords across multiple accounts. If you’re using the same password for multiple accounts, it only takes one breach for all of them to be compromised at once.
  • Be aware of phishing scams and other malicious emails or links that could lead to malware infections or other security threats. Never click on suspicious links or download attachments from unknown sources, as these could contain malicious code designed to steal your personal information or damage your computer system.

By taking these simple steps, you can help protect yourself against credential stuffing attacks and other cyber threats targeting Norton LifeLock customers. Remember: Your security is only as strong as your weakest link – so make sure you’re taking the necessary precautions to keep your data safe! Read Get Hitch for all your cyber security news and information

Sources

 



source https://www.gethitch.com/hackers-breached-norton-password-manager/

Friday, January 20, 2023

A Look At Cyber Security News 2023-01-21

Green ScreenThe world of cyber security is constantly changing, and it’s important to stay up to date on the latest news. Recently, Ukraine’s cybersecurity agency reported that cyber-attacks have tripled in the past year. This is a stark reminder of the need for vigilance when it comes to protecting our data and systems from malicious actors.

At the same time, there has been some good news in this area as well. According to a recent BBC report, earnings for cyber-crime gangs have decreased due to victims refusing to pay ransoms. This shows that people are becoming more aware of the risks associated with these attacks and are taking steps to protect themselves from them.

Unfortunately, not all news in this space is positive. In January 2021, T-Mobile was breached again, exposing 37 million customer accounts. This highlights the need for organizations to be vigilant about their security measures and make sure they are doing everything they can to protect their customers’ data.

Overall, it’s clear that cyber security is an ever-evolving field and one that requires constant attention if we want to keep our data safe from malicious actors. It’s important for individuals and organizations alike to stay informed about the latest developments in this area so they can take steps to protect themselves from potential threats.

Ukraine’s Cybersecurity Agency Reports Cyber-attacks Tripled

Ukraine’s cybersecurity agency recently reported that cyber-attacks have tripled in the past year. This is a concerning development, as it indicates that malicious actors are becoming increasingly sophisticated and determined to target Ukraine’s digital infrastructure. The increase in cyber-attacks is likely due to the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, which has been ongoing since 2014.

The majority of these attacks have been attributed to Russian hackers, who have used a variety of techniques to gain access to Ukrainian networks and systems. These include phishing campaigns, malware infections, and distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks. In addition, there have been reports of ransomware being used against Ukrainian organizations in an effort to extort money from them.

In response to this growing threat, the Ukrainian government has implemented a number of measures designed to improve its cybersecurity posture. These include the adoption of a National Cybersecurity Strategy in 2016 and increased cooperation with international partners such as Estonia on cyber defense initiatives. Additionally, Ukraine has taken steps to strengthen its own internal security measures by introducing new technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML).

Despite these efforts, however, it is clear that more needs to be done if Ukraine is going to effectively protect itself from cyber threats. To this end, it is essential for both public and private sector organizations in Ukraine to invest in robust cybersecurity solutions that can detect and mitigate potential threats before they become serious problems. Additionally, it is important for organizations within Ukraine to ensure that their staff are properly trained on how to identify potential threats and respond appropriately when they arise.

Overall, the recent rise in cyber-attacks against Ukraine highlights the need for increased vigilance when it comes to protecting digital infrastructure from malicious actors. It also serves as a reminder that no country or organization can afford to be complacent when it comes to cybersecurity – even those located far away from the conflict zone between Russia and Ukraine must remain vigilant if they wish to remain safe from attack.

Decreased Earnings For Cyber-crime Gangs

According to a recent BBC report, cyber-crime gangs have seen a 40% drop in earnings due to victims refusing to pay ransoms. The report found that victims of cyber-crime are increasingly refusing to give into the demands of hackers, leading to a decrease in profits for the criminals.

Norsk Hydro, one of the companies affected by ransomware, refused to pay the ransom and instead opted for an alternative solution. The company was able to restore their systems without paying any money, but it cost them £45 million. This serves as an example of how costly it can be not to pay the ransom and shows why many people are choosing this route.

The National Crime Agency has warned about malicious software such as ransomware and distributed denial of service (DDOS) attacks which can hijack files and hold them for ransom. They advise people to be vigilant when online and ensure they have adequate security measures in place on their devices.

Ransomware is a type of malware from cryptovirology that threatens to publish personal data or permanently block access unless a ransom is paid. It is becoming increasingly common with criminals using it as a way of extorting money from unsuspecting victims.

It is encouraging that more people are refusing to pay ransoms as this will hopefully lead to fewer cyber-crimes being committed in future.

T-Mobile Data Breach

On January 19th, 2023, T-Mobile announced that they had been the victim of a data breach, exposing the personal information of 37 million customers. The breach was discovered on November 26th, and included customer names, phone numbers, email addresses, account numbers and billing information.

The breach is being investigated by both T-Mobile and law enforcement authorities. It is believed that no passwords, payment card information, social security numbers or other financial account information were compromised. However, customers are encouraged to remain vigilant for any suspicious activity on their accounts.

T-Mobile has responded to the breach by launching an extensive security plan which includes increased monitoring of their systems and additional layers of authentication for customers logging in to their accounts. They have also set up a website dedicated to providing updates about the incident as well as resources for affected customers.

This isn’t the first time T-Mobile has suffered a data breach; they have experienced at least five since 2018. Despite spending a fortune shoring up their systems, it appears that it hasn’t been enough to prevent further breaches from occurring.

In response to this latest incident, T-Mobile has proposed a $350 million settlement which would be the second-largest data breach payout in US history if approved. Affected customers have until January 24th to submit claims for compensation related to the incident.

It’s important for all consumers to be aware of how vulnerable their personal data can be when companies fail to take adequate measures against cyber attacks. As technology continues to evolve so do the methods used by hackers and it’s essential that businesses keep up with these changes in order to protect customer data from falling into malicious hands.

Read Get Hitch for all your cyber security news and information

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source https://www.gethitch.com/a-look-at-cyber-security-news-2023-01-21/

Wednesday, January 18, 2023

Cybersecurity for beginners: 10 terms you should know

 

If you’re interested in entering the exciting world of cybersecurity, but don’t know where to start, acquiring a vocabulary base is essential. To help get you up to speed, here is a brief overview of ten key terms related to the field. Starting with ‘malware’ – short for malicious software which is designed to cause damage and even steal data. Then there’s a ‘phishing attack’ or when someone attempts to acquire personal information via online deception and impersonation methods. Keep an eye out for ‘spyware’ too; a type of malware that records information from users without their knowledge. Additionally, be aware of ‘brute force attacks’ – when hackers use powerful computers to decrypt codes or access sensitive data. Finally, don’t forget about ‘DoS’ (denial of service) attacks which disrupt normal activity by flooding target systems with superfluous requests. While these terms may seem complex at first, understanding them can give your cybersecurity career a huge boost!

00:00 Intro
00:13 DNS query
00:42 Dark Web
00:55 Ethical hacking
01:19 Firewall
01:33 Email spoofing
02:06 RFID blocking
02:25 Trojan
02:41 Warchalking
03:12 Smishing
03:35 Adware

***

Ten Cyber Security Terms You Need To Know

Becoming a cybersecurity expert can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be! A good way to break into this career is to start with learning the terminology. Knowing which words and phrases are important in the cyber security space is one of the most basic skills needed to understand and communicate effectively. Words like “Phishing”, “Firewall”, “Malware” and “Encryption” may appear overwhelming at first, but with some dedication and familiarity, you’ll have them down in no time. With practice, mastery of these terms can help set a solid foundation for your journey towards becoming an expert in the field. Want to become an expert in cybersecurity but aren’t sure where to begin? Vocabulary is essential, just like when learning a new language. So here are eleven terminologies that any cyber security fan ought to be familiar with!

DNS query

A DNS query is a request sent from a user seeking to resolve a domain name to its corresponding IP address. The request is sent from the user’s computer or other device, to a DNS server which looks up and responds with the IP address.

Dark Web

The dark web is a collection of websites that are not indexed by search engines and can only be accessed using specialized software such as The Onion Router (TOR). It is used to host illegal activities, such as trafficking, drug dealing, money laundering, and even terrorism. People can also buy and sell all kinds of goods without leaving a trace. Despite its name, the majority of content on the dark web is actually legal.

What Else Can You Find On the Dark Web?

The dark web is home to a wide variety of content, including legitimate discussions on political topics, information, and services that are difficult to find elsewhere. It also hosts online marketplaces where people can buy goods such as drugs, firearms, and counterfeit goods with virtual currencies like Bitcoin.

Another popular activity on the dark web is online gambling. This can be especially dangerous since these sites are unregulated and could potentially be used to launder money. Furthermore, the dark web is host to many forums discussing hacking tools and techniques as well as malware sharing websites.

Lastly, it’s important to note that some people use the dark web for illegal activities such as cybercrime or terrorism-related activities. While it’s technically possible to access this type of content on the dark web, it is highly discouraged as it can lead to serious legal consequences if caught by law enforcement agencies.

Ethical Hacking

Ethical hacking is the process of using legal, professional and responsible methods to identify weaknesses in a computer system or network and then fix those weaknesses. It involves testing a system’s security measures and seeking out vulnerabilities in the system’s design before malicious hackers can exploit them.

Ethical hackers use the same tools and techniques that malicious hackers do, but their intentions are different; instead of exploiting vulnerabilities for their own gain, they look to find and patch any problems they find. This helps ensure that business networks are secure, private data remains confidential and users are free from online threats.

How is Ethical Hacking Done?

Ethical hacking typically involves four steps: reconnaissance, scanning, exploiting, and reporting.

Reconnaissance involves researching the target system’s architecture, looking for publicly available information that can be used to gain access to the system. This includes information on the system’s owners or administrators and their security policies.

Scanning involves using automated tools to search for vulnerable entry points in the system. These tools look for known security vulnerabilities such as open ports and weak passwords and can help an ethical hacker determine where they may need to focus their efforts.

Exploiting involves attempting to gain access to a system by exploiting its vulnerabilities. Depending on the level of access gained, an ethical hacker may be able to view sensitive data, modify settings or even create new users with administrative privileges.

Finally, reporting consists of informing the people responsible for maintaining the system about any security holes that have been found and providing recommendations for how those holes can be closed. It is important that these reports are professional and factual, as malicious hackers may use exaggerated or false claims in order to get into systems.

Firewall

A firewall is a network security system, either hardware- or software-based, that creates a barrier between your internal network and the internet. Firewalls are designed to block unauthorized access, while allowing authorized communications through it. They provide an important layer of protection to keep malicious traffic from entering your private networks and can be used to monitor outgoing and incoming traffic.

Firewalls can also be configured to limit access based on certain criteria such as source IP address, protocol type, or port number. This helps ensure that only authorized users are able to connect to the network, while malicious traffic is blocked or redirected elsewhere.

In addition, firewalls protect against various types of attacks such as DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks, SQL injection attacks and XSS (Cross-Site Scripting) attacks. By being configured properly, firewalls can play an important role in protecting your data and keeping your systems secure.

Email Spoofing

Email spoofing is a type of scam where the sender of an email purposely changes pieces of the message to appear as though it was sent from an individual or company other than who actually sent it. The goal of this practice is usually to gain access to sensitive information, such as passwords or financial data, by tricking people into clicking on malicious links or downloading attachments in the email.

The most common form of email spoofing involves changing the “From” field in the header. This field contains another user’s name and email address, making it seem like the message came from them instead of you. It also includes other vital information such as the IP address that was used to send the message, which can be used to trace the true originator.

Email spoofing can be prevented by implementing measures such as strict authentication protocols, using encryption for messages in transit and enforcing anti-spoofing policies at your domain level.

RFID Blocking

RFID blocking is a security measure used to protect your personal information, such as credit card numbers and other sensitive data, stored on RFID chips embedded in items such as passports and credit cards. These chips are designed to emit a radio frequency which can be intercepted by an unauthorized reader.

A RFID blocker acts like a shield, stopping the transmitter from sending its signal out and preventing anyone from accessing your private information without permission. It usually takes the form of material that has metal incorporated into it, although there are also devices that you can purchase separately in order to block the transmission of signals from RFID chips.

Using a RFID blocker offers you peace of mind when travelling or using contactless payments, making sure that your private data remains secure at all times.

Trojan

A Trojan is a type of malicious software (malware) that is disguised as legitimate software to deceive users and gain access to their system. It can be used to remotely control the user’s computer or steal sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords and banking details.

Trojans are typically distributed by downloading files or clicking on links in emails or websites that have been infected with malware. Once installed, they can conceal themselves within the operating system and remain undetected while they collect information or allow an attacker to take complete control of the machine.

Some Trojans can also be used to install ransomware, which encrypts the victim’s data and then demands a payment before the encryption key is released. Therefore, it is important to ensure you have up-to-date anti-virus software installed on your device in order to protect against Trojans and other forms of malware.

Warchalking

Warchalking is a form of public communication used by wireless computer users to indicate the presence and location of an open wireless LAN (local area network). It uses symbols or codes that are drawn with chalk on sidewalks, buildings, or other surfaces to mark the location of an available wireless access point.

The practice of warchalking was popularised in 2002 as a way for mobile computer users to easily locate and connect to free, public Wi-Fi networks that were not otherwise visible on their laptops or other devices. Although there are now easier ways to find these networks, it can still be helpful for those travelling in urban areas where public access points may not be readily available.

Smishing

Smishing is a type of phishing attack that uses SMS (short message service) text messages as the primary method of communication. The attacker creates a message that appears to be from a legitimate source, such as a bank or credit card provider, and attempts to lure victims into clicking on malicious links or providing personal information.

Unlike email-based phishing attacks, smishing messages usually contain fewer spelling and grammar errors and appear more urgent or important in order to increase the likelihood of being clicked on or acted upon. Additionally, many smishing attacks are also designed to spoof the sender’s address so that it looks like it originated from a trusted source.

Therefore, it is important for users to be vigilant when receiving unexpected text messages requesting sensitive information or containing suspicious links. If in doubt, contact the alleged sender directly via an official website or telephone number before taking any action.

Adware

Adware is a type of malicious software that automatically displays or downloads advertisements on users’ computers. It is usually bundled with free or trial software, or installed as part of a deceptive advertisement or website.

Adware can be used for legitimate purposes such as displaying contextual ads or delivering marketing content to users. However, it can also be used for malicious activities, such as collecting personal information without consent, flooding the user with unwanted pop-ups and banners, redirecting browser traffic to malicious websites, slowing down system performance, and more.

In order to protect yourself from adware infections, it’s important to keep your computer and software up-to-date, use an anti-virus program, avoid clicking on suspicious links or download files from untrusted sources, and be aware of the signs of an infection (such as increased pop-ups).

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About NordVPN

NordVPN is the world’s top choice for online security and privacy. As the flagship service of Nord Security, we are committed to providing internet users with the best tools and services to protect their connection from unwanted attacks, snoopers, and cyber criminals.

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a secure connection service that allows users to protect their online activity by encrypting traffic and masking IP address and virtual location. By connecting to a VPN server, users can safely access public Wi-Fi networks without worry about snoopers or malicious actors intercepting their data. Additionally, it also allows them to bypass geo-restrictions or censorship imposed by certain countries on certain websites or services.

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Grab the Deal Here!
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Read Get Hitch for all your cybersecurity news and information



source https://www.gethitch.com/cybersecurity-for-beginners-10-terms-you-should-know/

TRB143 – M-Bus Cellular Gateway | Webinar

The TRB143 industrial gateway was designed with a range of applications in mind. Boasting integrated M-Bus interface and cellular or wired connectivity options, it is a versatile device for utility and telemetry monitoring. Its Gigabit Ethernet port and digital Inputs/Outputs make this an ideal solution for environmental parameter monitoring. Setting up remote monitoring and configuration is also easier than ever, thanks to software security features like preconfigured Firewall and Open VPN as well as compatibility with FOTA, SMS control and Teltonika Networks’ very own Remote Management System – keeping your meter readings safe and secure at all times. See also TRB143 Quick Start Guide

 



source https://www.gethitch.com/trb143-m-bus-cellular-gateway-webinar/

Wednesday, January 11, 2023

NordVPN Confirms its no-log policy for the third time

NordVPNNordVPN, a cybersecurity company, has recently announced its third contract for no-log policy assurance. The methods and setups of regular VPN, obfuscated, Double VPN, Onion Over VPN, and P2P servers, as well as a server configuration and central infrastructure inspection, were thoroughly analysed by practitioners. They discovered that the VPN service offered to NordVPN’s customers complies with its no-logs policy.

Independant Audit

Deloitte, one of the top Big Four auditing firms in the sector, undertook the assurance engagement and objectively evaluated NordVPN’s services and put its no-logs guarantee to the test. The first impartial no-log audit of NordVPN was finished in 2018, and its second evaluation was finished in 2020, demonstrating the firm’s ongoing dedication to privacy. The company wants to reassure its customers that NordVPN will always uphold a strict no-logs policy by working with a reputable and impartial Big Four firm.

As part of their ongoing efforts to guarantee openness to their customers, NordVPN is proud to be examined for the third time, according to product strategist Vykintas Maknickas. The Deloitte seal of approval shows that the company takes privacy seriously and the company is thrilled to have it.

The company spokesperson added that customers of NordVPN need to be confident in the company’s reliability. People should be aware that a VPN provider won’t monitor their data before using one. They must have faith in the safety and efficiency of its infrastructure and features. That is the main goal of the auditing procedure.

Here are some of the key take-aways from the audit:

  • An in-depth review. The engagement process involved interviews with NordVPN employees as well as inspections of server configuration, technical logs, and other servers in our infrastructure. The tests covered our obfuscated, Double VPN, standard VPN, Onion Over VPN, and P2P servers.
  • A point-in-time assessment. The practitioners can only report on what they saw when they were given access to our services. The assurance engagement was performed from November 21 to December 10, 2022.
  • The results. During that point in time, the practitioners saw no signs that we violated our no-logs promise. Just like the last assurance engagement (and the one before that), these results underline NordVPN’s unwavering commitment to user privacy.

The full no-logs assurance engagement report is available on NordVPN’s website.

A Bit About NordVPN

Millions of internet users utilise NordVPN, the most cutting-edge VPN service provider in the world. In addition to offering Onion Over VPN and double VPN encryption, NordVPN ensures anonymity with no tracking. Threat Protection, which filters harmful websites, malware, trackers, and advertisements, is one of the product’s primary features. Over 5,000 servers are located in 60 different locations around the world, and NordVPN has one of the best pricing on the market.

Read more VPN and cybersecurity here at Get Hitch



source https://www.gethitch.com/nordvpn-confirms-its-no-log-policy-for-the-third-time/

Apple launches new iPhone technology that could potentially save your life

  Apple launches satellite emergency SOS service in Australia and New Zealand Apple has launched groundbreaking technology in Australia w...