Embracing Digital Transformation

Exploring Cyber Identity with Jeff Reich

This week on Embracing Digital Transformation, Darren discusses identity with his guest Jeff Reich. They delve into the complex topic of identity in the cyber realm, addressing questions such as: how many identities we have, how can we trust someone or something's identity, and who can verify a person's true identity. In addition, don't forget to check out the new features on our website and YouTube channel. We are having a bit of fun this week, as we introduce ED-T the fish, our podcast mascot.

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Artificial Intelligence

Generative AI: Revolutionizing Work and Creativity

Generative AI, popularized by ChatGPT, has hundreds of millions of weekly users and a multi-trillion-dollar projected economic impact. Filtered Technologies' research found 100 real-world applications including technical assistance, content creation, personal support, learning, creativity, and research. Despite challenges, users appreciate AI for generating ideas, problem-solving, and streamlined workflows. Concerns remain about reliability and widespread utilization.

DHS's AI Initiatives: Balancing Innovation and Risks

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has started implementing AI initiatives, which include three test projects. One of these projects involves training immigration officers with generative AI to improve training and decision-making accuracy. However, there are concerns about potential inaccuracies and biases inherent in AI models. Despite assurances of responsible use, challenges remain in ensuring privacy, transparency, and bias mitigation. The DHS's comprehensive AI roadmap highlights both the opportunities and risks of deploying AI across its operations.

AI Copilots Transform Enterprise Automation

Chatbots using genAI automate tasks in enterprise systems like customer record updates and code creation. IDC calls these AI assistants "copilots" and envisages them as standard software interfaces. While Microsoft dominates with its Copilot, other vendors like Slack and Salesforce are entering the market. Amazon's CodeWhisperer leads in software code generation. These copilots augment software development and offer guidance in enterprise applications.

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Cybersecurity

Five Eyes Warn of Volt Typhoon Threat

Five Eyes agencies, comprising the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, issue a joint warning urging critical infrastructure operators to prioritize defense against the Volt Typhoon cyber threat. This China-backed campaign poses serious risks to national security. Enhanced cybersecurity measures are recommended to mitigate potential disruptions. Collaboration between government and private sectors is crucial in safeguarding critical infrastructure against emerging cyber threats.

China's Cyber Threats to US Infrastructure

At a Billington State and Local Cybersecurity Summit, CISA's Andrew Scott revealed that China-backed cyber actors have infiltrated US critical infrastructure networks for up to five years, posing potential disruption threats. CISA's advisory warns of China's Volt Typhoon compromising IT systems across sectors. Despite skepticism, experts stress vigilance among state and local governments. Tabletop exercises and incident response training are recommended to enhance cybersecurity resilience.

Increased Cyberattacks Threaten Critical Infrastructure

State-backed hackers from Iran and China have increased cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, prompting a warning from the US government. Cybersecurity agencies have investigated Iranian attacks on water facilities, while China's Volt Typhoon group is suspected of probing various infrastructure sectors. These attacks threaten safe drinking water and could disrupt essential services. The Biden Administration urges private enterprises to take proactive steps to improve cybersecurity and mitigate risks.

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Ubiquitous Computing

Beware: Cloud Providers' Sneaky Egress Fees

Watch out for those sneaky cloud service providers!! Google, AWS, and Microsoft have waived egress fees for a few weeks to reduce data migration costs and encourage multi-cloud adoption. But these waivers come with conditions such as data transfer limits and approval requirements. Google offers credits, AWS provides one terabyte of free data transfer per month, and Azure requires approval for transfers exceeding 100GB/month. To avoid unexpected costs, review the terms carefully.

Snowflake and Reka Integrate AI Solutions

Snowflake and Reka have teamed up to integrate multimodal large language models into Snowflake's data cloud platform, enabling users to develop generative AI apps handling text, images, and videos. The collaboration will incorporate Reka's Flash and Core models into Snowflake's Cortex, designed for LLM apps. Snowflake aims to democratize AI, and this move aligns with its commitment to innovation and accessibility. With more than 400 enterprises using Cortex, this partnership will speed up the delivery of business value.

AI Tool to Combat Food Waste

Hellmann's, a company known for its mayonnaise, has introduced a new tool called Meal Reveal that uses AI and cloud technology to help reduce household food waste. By scanning the contents of a fridge with a phone, the AI analyzes the ingredients and suggests recipes in real-time using Google Cloud's Vertex AI platform. This tool aims to tackle food waste and was launched during WRAP UK's Food Waste Action Week. It showcases the potential of generative AI in improving food systems.

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Embracing Digital Transformation

#60 2024-03-24