US

Biden administration uses Reddit for hurricane updates

The White House has surprised many by using Reddit to communicate its response to Hurricanes Helene and Milton, with posts appearing in subreddits like r/NorthCarolina and r/Georgia. Although government updates are more commonly shared on platforms like Instagram and X, the Biden administration has taken a new approach with Reddit to reach a broader and more engaged audience.

The US White House’s Reddit account, ‘whitehouse,’ was confirmed to be legitimate by Reddit’s Gina Antonini, who also mentioned the account’s “Official” badge as part of Reddit’s Pro program. Interestingly, the account’s creation date was 7 January 2021, raising questions about whether it had been used before. While some posts initially faced moderation issues, they were later restored as the federal government continues to explore innovative ways to engage with the public.

Deputy Director of Platforms Megan Coyne shared on X that the Reddit account was launched for this purpose. This marks a shift in how the government communicates with citisens, using more unconventional platforms to provide real-time updates on emergencies.

Google terminates Kaspersky developer account

Kaspersky has announced that its developer account on the Google Play store has been terminated, resulting in the removal of all its apps. This decision follows recent US government actions that restrict the distribution and sales of Kaspersky products within the United States after September 29. While these restrictions have no legal impact outside the country, Google has preemptively removed Kaspersky’s products, limiting global access to its cybersecurity solutions.

Kaspersky believes Google’s decision stems from a misinterpretation of US restrictions, which are not confirmed by the US Department of Commerce. The company asserts that these measures do not prohibit the sale or distribution of its products and services beyond US borders. Kaspersky has communicated this understanding to the Department of Commerce and is awaiting further guidance.

For users with already-installed Kaspersky apps on Android, the apps will continue to function normally and receive database updates via Kaspersky’s cloud infrastructure. All paid features will remain operational. However, users will no longer be able to update or reinstall the apps directly from the Google Play store.

TikTok faces legal challenges from 13 US states over youth safety concerns

TikTok is facing multiple lawsuits from 13 US states and the District of Columbia, accusing the platform of harming and failing to protect young users. The lawsuits, filed in New York, California, and other states, allege that TikTok uses intentionally addictive software to maximise user engagement and profits, particularly targeting children who lack the ability to set healthy boundaries around screen time.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta condemned TikTok for fostering social media addiction to boost corporate profits, while New York Attorney General Letitia James connected the platform to mental health issues among young users. Washington D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb further accused TikTok of operating an unlicensed money transmission service through its live streaming and virtual currency features and claimed that the platform enables the sexual exploitation of minors.

TikTok, in response, denied the allegations and expressed disappointment in the legal action taken, arguing that the states should collaborate on solutions instead. The company pointed to safety measures, such as screen time limits and privacy settings for users under 16.

These lawsuits are part of a broader set of legal challenges TikTok is facing, including a prior lawsuit from the U.S. Justice Department over children’s privacy violations. The company is also dealing with efforts to ban the app in the US due to concerns about its Chinese ownership.

US DoJ aims to break Google’s search engine monopoly

The US government is considering drastic measures to break up Google’s dominance in the online search industry, which could lead to the company divesting critical parts of its business, such as its Chrome browser and Android operating system. The potential legal move follows a judge’s August ruling that declared Google had illegally established a monopoly in online search. With the tech giant controlling about 90% of internet searches in the US, the Justice Department is pushing for remedies that could transform how Americans access information and shrink Google’s revenue while creating more opportunities for competitors.

One of the government’s proposals involves halting Google’s massive payments to ensure its search engine remains the default on new devices. In 2021 alone, Google paid $26.3 billion to companies like Apple to keep its search engine pre-installed on smartphones and browsers. The Justice Department argues that ending these agreements is necessary to prevent Google from maintaining its dominant position in search distribution today and in the future, particularly as the market expands into AI.

Prosecutors are also eyeing Google’s role in the growing AI sector. They propose opening up Google’s vast indexes, data, and models to its rivals to prevent the company from monopolising AI-driven search technologies. Additional suggestions include limiting Google’s ability to make deals, restricting competitors’ access to web content and allowing websites to opt out of having their data used for AI training. Google, however, has pushed back, arguing that such interventions could distort the rapidly developing AI industry and stifle innovation at a crucial moment.

The stakes are high for Google, which plans to appeal the proposed remedies, calling them ‘radical’ and far beyond the scope of the legal case. Google maintains that its search engine’s popularity is due to its superior quality and points to competition from companies like Amazon as proof of a competitive market. Meanwhile, the company faces mounting legal battles, including a separate ruling forcing it to open its Play app store to greater competition.

The Justice Department is expected to submit more detailed proposals by 20 November, with Google having until 20 December to respond with its suggestions.

Why does it matter?

The antitrust case is seen as a significant victory for regulators seeking to rein in the power of Big Tech, with similar lawsuits already filed against Meta, Amazon, and Apple. Smaller competitors, like Yelp and DuckDuckGo, have voiced support for breaking up Google’s assets, advocating for changes that could level the playing field in both search and AI.

Major US telecoms reportedly hit by Chinese cyberattack on wiretap systems

Chinese hackers reportedly accessed US broadband networks, compromising systems used for government-authorised wiretapping. The Wall Street Journal revealed that major telecom providers, including Verizon, AT&T, and Lumen Technologies, were affected by the breach.

Hackers are believed to have maintained access for months, enabling them to intercept internet traffic and sensitive communications data. US investigators, who labelled the hacking group ‘Salt Typhoon’, indicated that the breach was intelligence-focused.

China’s foreign ministry responded to the accusations, denying knowledge of the incident and condemning the US for what they called ‘a false narrative’. Beijing had previously denied involvement in similar cyber-espionage claims.

Lumen Technologies declined to comment, while Verizon and AT&T did not respond immediately. The breach follows the exposure of another Chinese hacking group earlier this year, as part of a broader campaign by US law enforcement.

Meta revamps Facebook to engage young adults

Facebook, once the go-to platform for connecting with family and friends, is shifting its focus to attract younger users, according to Tom Alison, head of Facebook at Meta. With younger generations favouring apps like Instagram and TikTok, Meta aims to revitalise Facebook by helping users expand their networks and make new connections, aligning with how young adults use the platform today.

To achieve this, Facebook is testing two new tabs, Local and Explore, aimed at helping users find nearby events, community groups, and content tailored to their interests. This initiative aligns with Meta’s efforts to compete with TikTok, which has 150 million US users, by introducing its short-form video feature, Reels, in 2021. Data reveals that young adults on Facebook spend 60% of their time watching videos, with over half engaging with Reels daily.

Facebook also reported a 24% increase in conversations initiated through its dating feature among young adults in the US and Canada. At a recent event in Austin, Texas, the platform promoted its new direction with the slogan ‘Not your mom’s Facebook,’ emphasising its push to attract a younger audience.

Rising fears of foreign interference in US election

Concerns are rising ahead of the US presidential election, with the latest intelligence suggesting interference from foreign nations like Russia, Iran, and China. The annual threat assessment released by the Department of Homeland Security highlights the use of AI by these countries to spread misinformation and create fake websites.

Russian actors have focused on amplifying divisive narratives, particularly around immigration. Iran has adopted a more aggressive approach, posing as activists online to encourage protests related to the conflict in Gaza. China is also seen as a potential player in efforts to undermine confidence in US democratic institutions.

The upcoming election, expected to be highly contested between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, presents further opportunities for foreign interference. Tensions within the US could be exacerbated by these external efforts, along with potential threats from domestic extremists.

Domestic violent extremism also remains a serious concern. The report warns of the risk posed by lone actors or small cells driven by grievances related to race, religion, or anti-government views. These groups may attempt violent actions to instill fear or disrupt the electoral process.

Biden accelerates US chip manufacturing with new legislation

President Joe Biden has signed legislation that will exempt certain United States semiconductor manufacturing facilities from additional federal environmental reviews, helping to accelerate projects funded by the $52.7 billion CHIPS Act. The move is aimed at preventing potential delays that could arise from lengthy environmental assessments required under the National Environmental Policy Act.

While proponents argue that these projects have already complied with various environmental regulations at federal, state, and local levels, environmental groups like the Sierra Club caution that the reviews are essential to protect communities and workers from hazardous materials used in chip production. Critics are concerned about the risks of bypassing such safeguards.

The legislation is seen as a critical step to bolster the US semiconductor industry, with companies like Samsung, Intel, and Taiwan‘s TSMC set to benefit from billions in government subsidies. These funds are intended to strengthen supply chains, create jobs, and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers like China.

Despite the bipartisan support, some lawmakers, including Representative Zoe Lofgren, voiced opposition, citing past instances of semiconductor-related pollution. Lofgren argued that the reviews are a necessary tool to prevent similar environmental harm in the future.

Equinix partners with GIC and CPP Investments for major data centre expansion

Equinix has announced a joint venture with Singapore’s GIC and the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board, aiming to raise over $15 billion to expand its hyperscale data centres in the US. This initiative comes at a time when the demand for data centres is surging due to the increasing deployment of AI technologies across various industries. Hyperscale data centres are crucial for major tech companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google, providing the extensive computing power and storage necessary for their operations.

The newly formed joint venture will greatly expand Equinix’s hyperscale data centre program by enabling the purchase of land for new facilities and adding more than 1.5 gigawatts of capacity. GIC and the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board will each hold a 37.5% equity stake in the venture, while Equinix will retain a 25% share. Additionally, the partnership plans to leverage debt to increase the total available investment capital.

Equinix has experienced robust growth recently, prompting the company to raise its annual core earnings forecast. With a keen eye on expansion, particularly in Southeast Asia, Equinix has already acquired three data centres in the Philippines this year and continues to explore opportunities in the high-growth region. The new partnership with GIC underscores Equinix’s commitment to scaling its operations in response to the rising demand for data centre services.

Britain targets Evil Corp in new cybercrime sanctions

Britain has imposed sanctions on 16 members of the Russian cyber-crime group Evil Corp, accusing the group of conducting cyber-attacks on NATO allies under orders from Russian intelligence. The National Crime Agency (NCA) said the move is part of a coordinated effort with the US and Australia to combat significant cyber threats. Evil Corp’s leader, Maksim Yakubets, has been linked to Russia’s intelligence agencies, and a $5 million bounty was placed on him by the US in 2019.

The Russian cyber-crime group Evil Corp has been linked to numerous illegal activities, including ransomware attacks through its affiliate, LockBit. Major organisations like Boeing and Britain’s Royal Mail have been among their targets. Evil Corp’s deep connections with Russian intelligence agencies, such as the Federal Security Service (FSB), Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR), and military intelligence (GRU), underscore the increasing worries about cybercrime with state sponsorship. These links point to the potential use of cyber-criminals for espionage and cyber-attacks against global entities.

Alongside asset freezes and travel bans on the designated individuals, British officials disclosed that Maksim Yakubets’ father-in-law, a former FSB official, contributed to protecting Evil Corp. Additionally, the US Department of Justice has indicted Yakubets’ associate, Aleksandr Ryzhenkov, for conducting ransomware attacks throughout Texas and beyond. This coordinated global action highlights an ongoing commitment to combating cybercrime and safeguarding international security.