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US bolsters digital security with the ROUTERS Act to counter foreign cyber threats

The United States is making a pivotal move to bolster its digital security by introducing the ROUTERS Act, a bill specifically designed to address vulnerabilities in consumer internet routers and wireless infrastructure. Since these devices are crucial in connecting users to the internet, they have increasingly become prime targets for cyberattacks, particularly by foreign adversaries such as China.

Consequently, the legislation, which has already passed the House of Representatives, focuses on hardware developed or manufactured by companies based in countries of concern, including China, Iran, Russia, North Korea, and Venezuela. Notably, Chinese-made routers, such as those from TP-Link, are widely used in American households and even government agencies, presenting significant security risks.

To counter these threats, the ROUTERS Act mandates that the Department of Commerce conduct a study to assess the national security dangers posed by these devices. This crucial step could pave the way for future legislative actions to mitigate the vulnerabilities that threaten the US’s digital infrastructure.

Furthermore, the United States has already experienced the damaging effects of cyberattacks, particularly from Chinese-backed hacker groups exploiting router vulnerabilities to infiltrate networks and conduct espionage. Various reports and investigations have consistently highlighted the dangers posed by outdated and insecure routers, particularly those from manufacturers like TP-Link, which remain used by consumers and critical government agencies, including the Department of Defense.

As a result, the ROUTERS Act seeks to address these threats by requiring a comprehensive study of the national security risks posed by such devices, particularly those originating from adversarial nations. As the Senate prepares to review the bill, there is bipartisan support to strengthen it further by designating the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) as the lead agency overseeing the study.

Given its expertise in managing digital infrastructure and cybersecurity threats, the NTIA is well-positioned to ensure a thorough evaluation of the risks. Ultimately, this would enable the United States to coordinate better efforts across federal agencies to secure its digital infrastructure and safeguard against foreign cyber threats.

Dell to launch AI initiative for communications service providers

Dell has launched the Dell AI for Telecom Program, a strategic initiative to streamline the integration of AI solutions for communications service providers (CSPs). The program addresses the rising demand for advanced technologies in the telecommunications sector, empowering CSPs to optimise operations and meet evolving customer needs.

A cornerstone of this initiative is the expanded partnership with NVIDIA, which focuses on co-developing customised AI solutions through the Dell AI Factory. The program aims to enhance network performance and customer service, offering solutions such as advanced customer care platforms, operational automation, and robust network troubleshooting capabilities.

Dell is forging strategic partnerships with key industry players to drive innovation and expedite AI adoption. For example, its collaboration with Lintasarta, an Indonesian ICT solutions provider, aims to offer GPU-as-a-Service to national businesses, granting them access to high-performance AI infrastructure.

Furthermore, Dell is working with SK Telecom to develop an AI chat agent and the Mobile Network Operator (MNO) AI Platform, seamlessly integrating AI into existing business support systems to streamline telecom operations. To bolster these initiatives, Dell Professional Services will assist CSPs in strategising, implementing, and managing AI solutions tailored explicitly for the telecommunications sector. Overall, these concerted efforts position Dell’s initiatives as pivotal in driving network cloud transformation, reducing operational costs, and unlocking new revenue streams through innovative AI applications.

Kajeet and Mission Telecom partner to enhance digital inclusion for underserved communities

Kajeet, a leading provider of managed IoT connectivity solutions, and Mission Telecom, a non-profit organisation dedicated to providing affordable and reliable broadband and investing in a movement of systemic change, collaborate to deliver transformative connectivity solutions that empower underserved communities nationwide. By harnessing the innovative capabilities of Kajeet’s Sentinel platform alongside Mission Telecom’s unlimited broadband access services, the partnership aims to bridge the digital divide and ensure that essential internet access reaches those who need it most.

Furthermore, Kajeet will soon equip Mission Telecom with mobile device management, policy enforcement, wireless data usage control, network security, and advanced analytics. As a result, this will enable increased access to educational resources, job-seeking tools, and opportunities for economic growth, ultimately enhancing the vital services provided to nonprofits, libraries, and academic institutions.

In addition to improving connectivity, Kajeet and Mission Telecom collaborate to enrich educational opportunities for individuals and families. By delivering reliable internet access, they seek to provide essential learning and personal development tools, including online educational resources and job-seeking platforms. Moreover, Kajeet’s advanced mobile device management and analytics capabilities will empower Mission Telecom to foster a supportive environment for students and learners, equipping them for success in today’s digital landscape.

Furthermore, Kajeet and Mission Telecom collaborate to champion equitable access to broadband services, promoting digital inclusion across communities. That partnership embodies a shared vision for a more inclusive society where technology catalyses positive change. By addressing systemic challenges and leveraging their combined strengths, they are dedicated to cultivating a culture of empowerment through connectivity, ensuring everyone can thrive in the digital economy.

The British High Commission to strengthen digital communities in Kenya

The British High Commission in Kenya has announced a significant funding allocation of Sh390 million for the ‘Strengthening Digital Communities’ project, which will be implemented in Busia and Mandera counties. The initiative is designed to close the digital divide by improving access to digital skills and technology for marginalised groups, including women, youth, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities (PWDs).

By investing in digital inclusion, the project aims to empower these communities and enhance their overall quality of life. Furthermore, with plans to reach over 190,000 individuals, the British High Commission supports Kenya’s ambitious goal of achieving 20 million digitally literate citizens by 2027.

To ensure the project’s success, the British High Commission collaborates with KICTANet and several local institutions, including the National Council of Persons with Disabilities and the Kenya Society for the Blind. That partnership reflects a shared commitment to fostering inclusivity and tackling the challenges faced by underserved populations in these counties.

By harnessing the strengths of these organisations, the initiative aims to cultivate a supportive environment that promotes digital literacy and access to technology. In addition, recognising digital employability as a crucial aspect of this effort, the project will provide training, mentorship, and resources to help young women and youth secure meaningful employment opportunities.

Moreover, community engagement campaigns will focus on raising awareness about cyber hygiene, digital safety, and the advantages of digital inclusion, ensuring that all community members have the knowledge and skills to navigate the digital landscape safely.

Israel to promote competition in cellular market

The Israeli Communications Ministry is taking decisive steps to stimulate competition in the cellular infrastructure market by welcoming new entrants. That initiative aims to diversify a landscape dominated by a few major players, foster innovation, and attract investment in cellular services.

By opening the market to fresh competition, the ministry intends to accelerate the rollout of 5G networks nationwide, benefiting consumers with improved service quality and more choices. Ultimately, this effort is critical as Israel strives to bolster its technological infrastructure and meet the increasing demand for faster, more reliable communication services.

However, the Israeli Communications Ministry needs help balancing these changes with the concerns of existing industry stakeholders. The market currently comprises three primary cellular networks – Pelephone, Cellcom, and Partner (including Hot Mobile), each operating its infrastructure independently. Consequently, introducing new players may disrupt the established order, raising questions about potential impacts on service quality and competition.

Moreover, the ministry has encountered resistance from the workers’ union of Pelephone, which contends that the proposed changes could undermine competition and jeopardise national security. The union argues that this initiative prioritises financial interests over the integrity of communication services. In this context, they express concern that instead of addressing fundamental infrastructure issues, the ministry opts for a superficial solution that may lead to long-term negative consequences for the industry and consumers.

US unveils 2024 draft federal FHIR action plan to enhance healthcare interoperability

The United States Assistant Secretary for Technology Policy and the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT recently introduced the 2024 Draft Federal Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources(FHIR) Action Plan, a pivotal document aimed at enhancing the use of the Health Level Seven International(HL7) interoperability standard across the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). That plan is designed to address existing data silos in the healthcare system, thereby facilitating seamless communication and collaboration among patients, providers, payers, public health agencies, and research institutions.

By promoting the consistent application of FHIR, the US assistant secretary envisions a more integrated healthcare ecosystem that can ultimately improve patient outcomes and care coordination. The draft plan focuses on six critical components of core specifications – Network Specifications, Payment and Health Quality, Care Delivery and Engagement, Public Health and Emergency Response, and Research.

Each component is tailored to address specific challenges within the healthcare system. For instance, the Care Delivery and Engagement specifications are designed to enhance patient access to their health data while reducing administrative burdens on providers. This targeted approach aims to foster more effective healthcare delivery and support the overarching goal of a fully interoperable health system.

Emphasising the need for a curated resource, the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT details how federal agencies leverage FHIR to address diverse healthcare needs. The ‘curated catalogue’ serves as a roadmap for the future application of FHIR and aims to clarify the standards that federal agencies will adopt.

Furthermore, stakeholders in the health IT community are encouraged to provide feedback on the draft action plan by the 25 November deadline. By inviting year-round public comments, the goal is to ensure the plan remains relevant and responsive to the evolving needs of healthcare providers and their communities.

Volkswagen drivers get AI assistant powered by Google

Google has partnered with Volkswagen to provide key artificial intelligence capabilities for a new in-app assistant designed to assist drivers. The AI-powered assistant, available through a smartphone app, allows users to ask questions or point their cameras at vehicle dashboards for immediate, relevant information.

The assistant uses Google’s Gemini large language models, which are capable of processing and generating predictive responses based on human language. The tool was developed by incorporating Volkswagen manuals and YouTube videos related to vehicle maintenance into the AI’s database.

Google Cloud CEO Thomas Kurian highlighted the complexity of the project, explaining that it goes beyond simple speech-to-text translation. The AI’s multimodal capabilities, which process text, images, and videos, were essential to its development.

Currently available to around 120,000 Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport owners, the assistant will roll out to more models by next year. Google aims to expand its enterprise AI solutions through ventures like this, particularly as cloud computing continues to grow as a key segment of its business.

Indian Telecom Ministry pushes for better services and stricter rules

The Indian Telecommunication Ministry is ramping up efforts to boost domestic manufacturing in the telecom sector while improving service quality. In a recent meeting with the Stakeholders Advisory Committee (SAC), which included telecom equipment manufacturers, service providers, and representatives from the broader telecom ecosystem, the minister discussed the potential for creating a dedicated telecom manufacturing zone. That initiative supports the broader ‘Make in India, Make for the World’ vision.

In a separate meeting with telecom service providers (TSPs), Scindia emphasised the importance of enhancing the quality of services (QoS) provided to consumers. He stressed that telecom services in India must align with global standards, especially as the country increasingly adopts advanced technologies like 5G and high-speed fibre broadband. The push for improved service comes at a critical time when the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is pressing companies to comply with new QoS norms that aim to ensure reliable and high-performing networks.

The updated QoS standards, introduced by TRAI on 2 August after nearly a decade, focus on specific performance metrics such as network availability, call drop rates, and voice packet drops in uplink and downlink. Telecom companies must publish their performance data on their websites, including mobile coverage maps and network outages.

To enforce compliance, TRAI has increased penalties for violations, with fines ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh. The new reporting framework will be effective from 1 October, with companies required to submit quarterly QoS reports within 15 days of each quarter’s end.

Vietnam considers SpaceX’s $1.5 billion investment proposal

SpaceX is set to invest $1.5 billion in Vietnam, boosting Starlink’s satellite internet services in the country. The government has restarted discussions after talks paused at the end of 2023. Officials are now working closely with SpaceX to finalise plans.

The investment could improve internet access in mountainous regions and strengthen infrastructure for activities such as education and disaster response. SpaceX is particularly interested in supporting the country’s development and improving connectivity.

Disputes over strict regulations on foreign ownership of internet service firms previously stalled discussions. Vietnam limits foreign control to 50%, whereas SpaceX had sought a controlling stake, which may still pose challenges.

Vietnam is becoming an important market for major US companies like SpaceX and Apple, both looking to expand their operations. SpaceX’s Starlink service could also help this country maintain a stronger presence in the contested South China Sea.

Somalia to boost emergency telecoms with NCA-ITU plan

Somalia’s National Communications Authority (NCA) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) have taken pivotal steps toward enhancing Somalia’s emergency telecommunications landscape. Their recent collaboration aims to implement the National Emergency Telecommunications Plan (NETP), a comprehensive strategy to ensure efficient communication during crises.

By convening a four-day engagement meeting that brought together diverse stakeholders, including government officials, mobile network operators, and representatives from international organisations, these organisations foster a cohesive understanding of roles and responsibilities in emergency telecommunications. The inclusive approach is essential for aligning efforts across multiple sectors, creating a unified response framework that can adapt to the evolving challenges faced by Somalia.

Recognising that the success of the NETP hinges on the active participation of telecom operators, the NCA’s Director General, Mr Mustafa Yasin Sheikh, emphasised the crucial role of their infrastructure and technical expertise in establishing a dependable emergency communications system. By harnessing the capabilities of these operators, Somalia can build a resilient network that remains operational during crises, safeguarding the well-being of its citizens.

Furthermore, the NCA and ITU are focused on the long-term sustainability of Somalia’s telecommunications infrastructure, prioritising the establishment of robust disaster management and critical communication networks. That proactive approach aims to enhance the overall safety and preparedness of the Somali population, ensuring that essential services can be accessed when needed most.