Consumer protection

Meta’s Hypernova smart glasses promise cutting-edge features and advanced display technology

Meta is preparing to launch an advanced pair of smart glasses under the codename Hypernova, featuring a built-in display and gesture control capabilities.

The new device, developed in partnership with Ray-Ban, aims to enhance user convenience by offering features such as media viewing, map navigation, and app notifications.

Unlike previous models, the Hypernova glasses will have a display located in the lower right corner of the right lens, allowing users to maintain a clear view through the left lens.

The glasses will be powered by Qualcomm silicon and run on a customised version of Android. Meta is also developing a wristband, codenamed Ceres, which will provide gesture-based controls, including pinch-to-zoom and wrist rotation.

The wristband is expected to be bundled with the glasses, offering users a more seamless and intuitive experience.

Retail pricing for the Hypernova smart glasses is expected to range between $1,000 and $1,400, significantly higher than current VR-ready smart glasses like the Viture Pro and Xreal One.

However, Meta aims to differentiate its product through enhanced functionality and fashionable design, making it an appealing option for consumers looking for both style and utility.

The Hypernova glasses are projected to hit the market by the end of 2025. Meta is also developing additional augmented reality products, including the Orion holographic glasses and research-focused Aria Gen 2 AR glasses.

Competitors like Samsung are expected to launch similar Android-based smart glasses around the same time, setting the stage for an exciting year in the wearable tech market.

For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu.

Hackers exploit AI: The hidden dangers of open-source models

As AI adoption grows, security experts warn that malicious actors are finding new ways to exploit vulnerabilities in open-source models.

Yuval Fernbach, CTO of machine learning operations at JFrog, notes that hackers are increasingly embedding harmful code within AI models, making it easier to steal information, manipulate outputs, or disrupt services.

A recent study by JFrog and Hugging Face found that of over one million AI models analyzed, 400 contained malicious code—roughly a 1% chance of encountering a tainted model.

However, the risk has escalated: while the number of available AI models has tripled, attacks have increased sevenfold.

The widespread use of open-source models, often chosen over costly proprietary alternatives, exacerbates security concerns.

Many companies lack proper oversight, with 58% of surveyed firms admitting to having no formal policy for vetting AI models. Meanwhile, banks and other industries worry that AI’s rapid evolution outpaces their ability to implement safeguards.

With agentic AI poised to automate decision-making, businesses face an urgent need to strengthen AI security measures before vulnerabilities lead to significant financial and operational consequences.

For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu.

ChatGPT adds one million users per hour with AI image tool

OpenAI’s ChatGPT is experiencing unprecedented growth following the release of its new AI image generation feature. According to CEO Sam Altman, the AI tool has been attracting one million new users per hour, spurred by what he described as ‘biblical demand.’

The GPT-4o model, now available to free users, has quickly become a sensation, drawing comparisons to the app’s initial launch 26 months ago.

The latest update allows users to generate highly detailed visuals, including logos, diagrams, and imagery with precise meaning. OpenAI has touted GPT-4o’s ability to accurately render text, follow prompts closely, and draw from its extensive knowledge base to produce tailored visuals.

Popular uses include crafting images in the style of Studio Ghibli, which has led to a flood of creative outputs shared across social media platforms.

However, the overwhelming popularity has strained OpenAI’s resources. Sam Altman acknowledged the situation by noting that their GPUs were ‘melting’ under the pressure.

To manage the surge, OpenAI implemented temporary rate limits to enhance efficiency and maintain service quality.

The company’s success has also attracted significant investment, with OpenAI securing $40 billion in funding, bringing its valuation to $300 billion.

Since launching in November 2022, ChatGPT has amassed 500 million users, solidifying its position as one of the most influential AI platforms globally.

For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu.

Dutch police struggle with cyberattacks and underfunding

A leaked report has revealed serious financial and digital failings within the Dutch police, including unchecked spending on IT and cybersecurity.

Auditors from Ernst & Young found that the force must cut €160 million, raising concerns over national security and officer safety.

The Dutch Police Union warns that chronic understaffing, daily cyberattacks and a lack of digital resilience have pushed the system to breaking point.

A September data breach affected nearly all officers, and experts say over €300 million is needed to restore proper infrastructure.

Police Chief Janny Knol acknowledged the force underestimated the costs of digital transformation.

Merged systems from 24 regional departments have caused spiralling maintenance issues, while key tech projects run over budget and behind schedule. Urgent reforms are now planned.

For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu.

TikTok Shop launches in France, Germany and Italy

TikTok is expanding its e-commerce push by launching TikTok Shop in France, Germany and Italy. Already active in Spain and Ireland, the feature allows users to buy products directly within the app via videos, livestreams and a dedicated shop tab.

Customers can now browse, order, and get personalised product suggestions without leaving TikTok. However, users under 18 won’t be able to access content linked to TikTok Shop, with the platform promising stricter moderation.

The move has sparked concern among French retailers, with trade groups calling on the government to act against what they see as unfair competition from platforms like TikTok, Shein and Temu. Lawmakers are also investigating TikTok’s impact on young users.

For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu.

Ukrzaliznytsia reopens online ticket sales amid ongoing disruptions

Ukraine’s state-owned railway, Ukrzaliznytsia, has partially restored its online services following a large-scale cyber attack that disrupted passenger and freight transport systems. The attack, first reported on Sunday, forced passengers to buy tickets in person as the IT system went offline.

Ukrzaliznytsia announced that online ticket sales and refunds are now available in a backup format. However, due to high demand, technical interruptions may still occur, and passengers are advised to use the service only for urgent travel.

Despite ongoing challenges, the company reported that 12,000 tickets were successfully purchased through its online system after the restoration. The railway operator continues to monitor the situation and work towards fully stabilising its services in Ukraine.

For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu.

Commission seeks simpler, harmonised telecom rules

EU Tech Commissioner Henna Virkkunen has voiced support for using a Regulation, rather than a Directive, in the upcoming Digital Networks Act.

She says this would ensure consistent implementation across all member states, avoiding the patchwork seen under current telecom rules.

Virkkunen also hinted at easing merger rules and reducing ex-ante regulation within the existing framework, the European Electronic Communications Code.

These changes, she noted, could encourage investment and help the EU meet its goal of full 5G and fibre coverage by 2030.

She criticised slow national efforts to phase out high-risk Chinese components from 5G networks, calling for stronger action.

Her stance follows pressure from MEPs concerned about ongoing cybersecurity risks and lack of enforcement.

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NHS contractor fined after ransomware attack

The tech firm Advanced, which provides services to the NHS, has been fined over £3 million by the UK data watchdog following a major ransomware attack in 2022.

The breach disrupted NHS systems and exposed personal data from tens of thousands across the country.

Originally facing a £6 million penalty, Advanced saw the fine halved after settling with the Information Commissioner’s Office.

Regulators said the firm failed to implement multi-factor authentication, allowing hackers to access systems using stolen login details.

The LockBit attack caused widespread outages, including access to UK patient data. While Advanced acknowledged the resolution, it declined to offer further comment or name a spokesperson when contacted.

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How to protect your business from infostealer malware and credential theft

Cybercriminals stole billions of login credentials last year using infostealer malware, putting businesses worldwide at serious risk.

These malicious tools quietly harvest passwords and session tokens from infected devices, often within minutes.

To fight back, companies must use strong multi-factor authentication, store passwords in dedicated managers, and protect devices with advanced endpoint security.

Simple browser-stored logins are no longer safe, and attackers are getting better at bypassing weak defences.

Reducing session lifespans, using hardware-backed logins, and training staff to spot phishing threats are all key to staying secure.

By combining tech with human vigilance, organisations can stay ahead of attackers and safeguard their systems and data.

For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu.

Ransomware spreads through online conversion tools

The FBI’s Denver Field Office has issued a national warning over a rising cyber threat involving fake file converter websites. These sites, posing as free tools for tasks like converting documents or media formats, are secretly distributing ransomware and malware while appearing to perform legitimate functions.

According to the FBI, users are lured by services that convert files such as ‘.doc’ to ‘.pdf’ or combine image files, but the downloaded output often contains hidden malware.

A recent case revealed that a site impersonating Convertio delivered RedLine Stealer, a dangerous strain that harvests sensitive data from browsers, crypto wallets, and applications like Telegram and Discord.

Security experts have identified multiple malicious domains involved, with active incidents reported in the US, Denver area, just weeks ago.

The FBI urges the public to avoid unknown converter sites, keep antivirus software updated, and use built-in conversion features within trusted apps.

For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu.