What is IT maintenance? Prevention is better than cure
19/04/2021Keeping our IT equipment in good condition is essential for the smooth running of the business. The main goal of a good IT maintenance is to ensure the proper functioning of the hardware and software of our network and IT equipment and thus contribute to the overall efficiency of our business. What is the purpose of computer maintenance services? Computer maintenance services try to anticipate failures and offer us solutions to manage our computers and computer network, optimize their operation and secure all the information contained in our machines. In case of incidents, a good computer and systems technician will solve them and also find the cause of the error to prevent it from happening again. Benefits of hiring a computer maintenance and web maintenance service Common computers, servers, hard drives, networks, connections and antivirus problems can be avoided or prevented if we carry out all their preventive maintenance needs. Advance failure detection. Incidents can occur at any time, nipping them in the bud can save us a lot of headaches throughout the life of equipment. Improve the performance and reliability of your computers and network. This ensures our software is always up to date, thus improving the efficiency, speed and machines operation and other connected equipment. Prevents data loss. Data loss can wreak havoc. Keeping the equipment in good condition reduces the chances of these accidents that are completely neutralized if, in addition, our computer maintenance services include backups and contingency and recovery plans in case of disaster. Improve our protection against cyber-attacks. Regular maintenance means that our systems have the latest and, potentially, most effective security software installed to prevent any problem with malware, viruses, spyware or other unwanted attacks. Reduce our costs. With up-to-date computers we will always maximize their useful life and minimize the risk of loss due to unplanned downtime caused by computer problems. It helps us to keep the website properly updated and backed up. The most complete IT services include additional high-value services such as web maintenance for companies and backups of the entire project so nothing is lost in case of problems. What are the functions of a computer maintenance technician? Periodic reviews of computers, equipment and networks. To ensure from day one that everything is working properly, the software is up to date and the hardware is adequate. Server management with activity monitoring. To anticipate incidents or react immediately if they occur. Backup copies. To prevent data loss both on physical equipment and in the cloud. IT security. To keep machines protected and minimize the risks of viruses, computer attacks and improper intrusions. User management. To guarantee exhaustive control of how and who can access the data stored on the company's computers and servers. Remote and on-site technical assistance. Telephone support. To ensure quick resolution for major incidents and restore the service in the shortest possible time.
[ ... ]
Digital insurance with AI sets the trend in the Insurtech market
12/04/2024Digital insurance, connected and driven by generative Artificial Intelligence (AI), is making a milestone in the Insurtech market, according to a report prepared by the technology consultancy NTT Data. The report, 'Insurtech Global Outlook 2024,' delves into the three waves of innovation that are reshaping the insurance sector and also offers recommendations derived from its main findings. NTT Data experts detail that, after reaching record investment figures in previous years, the sector experienced an adjustment in 2023, reflecting both the bursting of a bubble and a strategic adaptation to new global economic and political realities. Three waves of innovation in digital insurance The NTT Data report identifies "three waves of innovation" in the insurance industry: digital insurance, connected insurance, and generative insurance. The first ones, they explain, mark the entry of Insurtech companies into the market, while connected insurance leads the shift towards proactive prevention strategies and personalized approaches for the client. The latter, generative insurance linked to AI, they add, are helping insurance companies to generate high-impact models in society, while also complying with ethical regulations. In fact, according to this work, cybersecurity and AI emerge as fundamental pillars for the transformation of the sector. The report highlights, for example, an investment of 640 million dollars in cybersecurity, with a growth in the number of transactions and an increasing focus on protection against cyber risks. In addition, artificial intelligence, with investments of over 50 billion dollars, is consolidating, according to the NTT Data report, as a disruptive force, paving the way for revolutionary solutions and business models.
[ ... ]
Cookies
A cookie is a file that is downloaded to your computer to access certain web pages. Cookies allow a website, among other things, to store and retrieve information about the browsing habits of a user or their equipment and, depending on the information they contain and how you use your computer, they can be used to recognize the user. However, this only means obtaining information related to the number of pages visited, the city assigned the IP address from which you accessed, the number of new users, frequency and recurrence of visits, time of visit, the browser or the operator or terminal type from which the visit takes place. In no event will data be obtained about the full name or address from which the user is connected. The cookies used on this website and the specific purpose of each one are: UTMA Cookie: We use this cookie to count how many times a unique user visits the site. UTMB Cookie: We use this cookie to calculate how long a user stays on a page. UTMZ Cookie: This cookie stores the visitor's origin, the path followed to access the web, either the direct access from a link on another website, from an email link using certain keywords in a search engine, through a display campaign, or through an AdWords ad. UTMC Cookie: The current JavaScript code that Google Analytics uses does not require this cookie. This cookie is used, along with the utmb cookie, to determine if after more than 30 minutes on the same page a new session should or should not be established for the user. This cookie is still written to ensure compatibility with the websites where you installed the old urchin.js tracking code. PHPSESSID Cookie: We use this cookie to identify the relevant user. You can allow, block or delete cookies installed on your computer by setting your browser options. You can find information about how, in relation to the most common browsers, on the links listed below: Explorer: http://windows.microsoft.com/es-es/windows7/how-to-manage-cookies-in-internet-explorer-9 Firefox: http://support.mozilla.org/es/products/firefox/cookies Chrome: http://support.google.com/chrome/bin/answer.py?hl=es&answer=95647 Safari: http://support.apple.com/kb/ph5042 Please note, however, that there is the possibility that disabling any cookie may prevent or hinder navigation or the provision of services offered on this website.
[ ... ]
WiFi Security: Assessment of threats in wireless networks
08/03/2024Wifi connectivity has gone from being limited to restricted environments to becoming omnipresent in virtually every aspect of our daily lives. The ability to connect to the Internet from anywhere, be it at home, in a café, at work, in public spaces, or even in-flight, has enhanced the convenience in our daily lives. Moreover, the expansion of Wifi networks and the use of new manufacturing technologies now allow the interconnection of devices, leading to the significant rise of the Internet of Things (IoT) and providing users with more comprehensive control over their digital environments. However, this proliferation of Wifi networks has also given rise to new threats that require careful evaluation and effective security strategies to ensure secure and risk-free Wifi connections for our data and information. Common Wifi security threats include data interception Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) attacks One of the fundamental challenges in Wifi security is preventing MITM attacks, where an intruder inserts themselves into the communication between two parties, compromising the integrity and confidentiality of sensitive data such as passwords and financial information. Spoofing of access points Hackers can create fake Wifi networks that mimic legitimate ones to attract unsuspecting users. Once connected to these malicious networks, our data can be captured by cybercriminals who may sell or misuse it for illicit purposes. Tips for achieving a secure Wifi connection: Strengthen authentication and use security protocols Prioritize strong encryption for networks to protect confidential information transmitted through it. WPA (Wifi Protected Access) encryption uses stronger algorithms than its predecessor, WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy), making it more difficult for hackers to intercept and decipher data. Advanced security protocols like WPA3 provide individualized data encryption and advanced two-factor authentication (2FA) methods, adding an extra layer of security by requiring additional verification. Device management Properly manage and monitor devices connected to Wifi networks to minimize risks associated with the large number of connected devices in homes and businesses. Regularly update the router firmware and all connected devices to address potential vulnerabilities. Segmentation of the network to separate critical devices from less secure ones also helps mitigate the risk of threat propagation. Secure Router Configuration The router secure configuration is what will ensure the robustness and overall security of a wireless network. The router, being the first point of contact for devices connected to the Internet, acts as the first line of defence against potential attacks. For this reason, it is important to understand that the proper configuration of the router not only guarantees a stable and efficient connection but also establishes a protected environment that safeguards the integrity and privacy of our data. How to configure the router securely? To ensure a correct and secure configuration of the router, it is recommended to: Change the default username and password of the router, as these are easily accessible to attackers. Use strong passwords containing a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters. Disable remote administration to prevent cybercriminals from accessing the router externally. Enable WPA2 or WPA3 encryption instead of the outdated WEP for enhanced network security. Optionally, disable SSID broadcast to make the network less visible and harder to detect by hackers. Keep the router firmware updated to address vulnerabilities and improve overall device security. By following these steps, you will strengthen the security of your wireless network and reduce the chances of experiencing unwanted attacks or intrusions.
[ ... ]
How can I hide my IP?
Accessing the Internet involves connecting our computer, smartphone, tablet, etc. to a communications server that is responsible for providing access to the network. This connection involves the identification and exchange of data about our identity, IP address, and online activities that are recorded forever as a trace of our navigation. Can I be tracked through my IP address? Yes, it is possible to trace an IP address and for those who consider privacy a priority, this is a major problem because, in addition to being exposed throughout the network, the increasingly intensive use of the Internet has led to this type of data becoming an object of interest for cybercriminals seeking personal or confidential information that can be used for their benefit. To safeguard against all this, there are several methods to hide the IP address, ensure our online privacy, improve our security on the Internet, and prevent anyone from knowing what pages we visit, the time we have spent on every connection, or what we are downloading. What are the advantages of hiding my IP? Apart from everything related to privacy and security already mentioned, hiding the IP offers different advantages for users in multiple circumstances: There are IP hiding services that prevent IP geolocation when we travel and allow us to connect to the network as if we were doing it from our own country, overcoming, for example, any network access limitations that may exist in the place where we are. We will be able to download files anonymously avoiding that the rest of the users can see our IP location. If our IP is not "in sight", the possible limitations and blockages of the Wi-Fi network and even of our ISP (Internet Service Provider) disappear. Thanks to the data encryption system of the most advanced IP hiding services, our vulnerability in connections to public Wi-Fi networks is minimized. When the system detects a location different from the real one, this can give us advantages to buy in online stores with different offers according to the country or to avoid the blocking of games, maps, and online game add-ons that may have restrictions on our location. How can I hide my IP? IP hiding is achieved through the use of specific services and tools to hide the IP and encrypt our traffic, those services allow us to hide the real communications we make during our navigation. Besides those techniques that are based on the modification of network protocols and require certain skills to carry them out, there are several technologies within the reach of all users: VPN or Virtual Private Network Proxy or Web proxy Tor Public Wifi How to hide the IP address with a VPN? VPNs are services that connect us to the Internet through intermediate servers, in which our original IP address is " masked " by the IP address of that secure server. This concealment ensures that anyone tracing our connection will only see the IP address and location of the VPN server, but not our own. In addition, to safeguard our activity on the network, VPNs use tunneling and data encryption, encrypting the information we exchange with the VPN server, hiding it, and preventing third parties from being able to read it during its transit. The security of VPN connections is determined by proprietary VPN protocols, based on different standards and encryption and authentication methods, which depend on each developer. The range of options is wide and this allows us to choose between, for example, options that prioritize speed over security, options that do the opposite, options with a greater or lesser degree of reliability, etc. VPN applications always run in the background and do not hinder browsing. How to use a proxy server to hide the IP address? Unlike VPN services, proxy servers focus their activity solely on hiding the IP, without performing any type of concealment on our network traffic or any other data that could reveal our identity. Proxy servers act as intermediaries between our device and the destination server to which they transmit our requests on our behalf. Therefore, our IP will be hidden and the only one they will see will be the proxy one. There are different types of proxy services, from the simplest ones that only help us to hide the IP to others with extra functionalities such as blocking cookies, scripts, and other files hosted on websites and sent to the user. Browsers or applications based on the HTTP protocol offer the manual proxy configuration function so that we can indicate the proxy web address and port to which we want to connect before browsing. In this way, any activity that we perform through that browser will always be routed to the proxy. Alternatively, you can also opt for the automatic proxy format that searches through DNS or DHCP for the URL from which to download the wpad.dat file that runs and allows the proxy connection with automatic authentication on your computer. How to hide your IP with Tor? Tor is a free software developed to ensure anonymous browsing of users on the Internet. To mask the IP Tor uses a network of volunteer computers or nodes through which it redirects our traffic and encrypts it before it reaches its destination. At least this redirection goes through three of these nodes, achieving repetitive re-encryptions so that any possible clue about our identity disappears. In this process, Tor assigns a random and geographically different IP to our connection so that the location by third parties is impossible (if you are curious to know the IP you have been assigned you can check it through our tool). This system allows different configurations depending on whether we are using a firewall, if our ISP is blocking Tor connections or if we navigate through proxy for example. Can I hide my IP with a public Wi-Fi connection? The answer is yes. A public Wi-Fi network can also be used to hide our IP address, although if we do not have it constantly at our disposal, the IP hiding is limited to the time we have access to a public network. As this type of network is a connection shared by many other people, this makes it impossible to trace a particular user or identify them on the destination server. However, it is precisely this general access that also makes us more vulnerable. And although through a connection to a public Wi-Fi we will solve the issue of IP hiding, security will never be total, because being an open network, we can be exposed to the will of hackers and other threats, including malware and viruses. And if I want to hide my IP address, how can I change it? It may also be the case that instead of masking the IP all we need to do is change our IP address at a given moment. Then, the solution is as simple as disconnecting the modem from the power supply and restarting it after a few minutes. In that time, if your IP address is dynamic (you can check it through the network connections tab on your computer), it will be deleted and your Internet provider will give you a new one. To make sure that everything went well, we recommend doing something as simple as writing down the IP address before turning off the router and checking it again once it is up and running again. Another possible way to achieve the same result if you have a smartphone with a data plan is to turn this device into a wireless access point to which you can connect your computer, thus hiding your usual connection. There are many options to hide the IP or to change it and now that you know how each of them works you will be able to decide which one suits you best.
[ ... ]
Orange transforms the gaming experience with AI and the 5G+ Stand Alone Network
29/02/2024Orange has harnessed the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the advanced architecture of the 5G+ Stand Alone network, leveraging its fragmentation capabilities, to reinvent a Virtual Reality (VR) athletics video game from the 1980s. In this revamped version, users have the opportunity to become exceptionally realistic avatars, competing with other players located in various places. The game employs Artificial Intelligence (AI) to accurately identify the user's anatomy and textures, creating the avatar. This process involves a three-dimensional volumetric scan of the subject, performed with a total of 21 cameras. Based on this detailed information, the avatar is created, allowing the player to participate in thrilling athletics races, competing against virtual opponents physically located in different locations. Fragmentation technology for efficient virtual networks During the game's usage, it leverages the capacity of network fragmentation technology to establish various virtual networks on the same physical infrastructure. This is achieved through efficient resource allocation tailored to the specific needs of the service, considering key aspects such as quality, availability, privacy, and security. In the case of Orange's VR game, it achieves this by prioritizing a fast and secure connection with minimal latency for an enhanced gaming experience. Immersive Now by Orange The presentation of Orange's athletics game took place at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, where the orange mobile telecommunications operator also showcased a virtual reproduction of its booth using the Immersive Now 360 platform for entertainment and events.
[ ... ]
What is Bitcoin Halving and how does it affect the cryptocurrency?
25/02/2024The term "Halving" in the context of Bitcoin refers to a scheduled event in the cryptocurrency protocol, in which the reward for mining blocks is reduced by half. This event occurs approximately every four years and has a significant impact on the supply and demand of Bitcoin. During Halving, the number of new Bitcoins created per block is halved. This implies a decrease in the issuance rate of the cryptocurrency, which in turn can have an effect on the price and volatility of Bitcoin. Many analysts and experts are speculating about the long-term implications of the Halving and its influence on the cryptocurrency markets. Services related to Bitcoin Halving There are various types of services and tools related to Bitcoin Halving that can be beneficial for different actors in the cryptocurrency ecosystem. These services include: 1. Halving analysis and forecast This type of service provides detailed information about the past, present and future of the Bitcoin Halving. Through analysis and forecasting, it helps investors and cryptocurrency enthusiasts make informed decisions on how to position themselves before and after the event. 2. Bitcoin Mining As the reward in Bitcoin decreases, mining this cryptocurrency becomes more challenging. Bitcoin mining services offer solutions and advice to maximize mining efficiency and profitability, even in a low reward environment. 3. Financial advice related to Halving As the issuance rate of Bitcoin slows, investors may need to adapt their investment strategies. Financial advisory services specialized in cryptocurrencies and Bitcoin provide personalized recommendations and analysis to optimize investment performance in this context. 4. Development of tools for cryptocurrencies The Bitcoin Halving may generate changes in the cryptocurrency ecosystem, which may require the creation of new tools and solutions. Companies specialized in software development and applications related to cryptocurrencies can provide development and consulting services to adapt to these new demands. Bitcoin: Reward Reduction and Its Implications on the Cryptocurrency Ecosystem Bitcoin, the most famous and valuable cryptocurrency in the world, has periodically experienced an event known as a "reward reduction" or "Halving", which has significant implications on the cryptocurrency ecosystem. In this article, we will explore in depth what Bitcoin reward reduction is and how it affects both miners and investors. What is Bitcoin reward reduction? Bitcoin reward reduction is a scheduled event integrated into the cryptocurrency protocol. It occurs approximately every four years and consists of a halving of the reward miners receive for validating transactions and adding new blocks to the Bitcoin blockchain. Originally, when Bitcoin was launched in 2009, miners received a reward of 50 Bitcoins for each block mined. However, due to the reward reduction process, this amount has decreased over time. In 2012, it was reduced to 25 Bitcoins per block, in 2016 to 12.5 Bitcoins per block, and in 2020 it was reduced again to 6.25 Bitcoins per block. Implications for Bitcoin miners Bitcoin's reward reduction has a significant impact on mining the cryptocurrency. With each reduction, miners receive fewer Bitcoins for their work, which means less direct monetary reward. This may result in some miners leaving the Bitcoin network, especially those with higher electricity and mining equipment costs. On the other hand, those miners who manage to adapt and remain profitable even with a lower reward are rewarded with a larger share of the Bitcoin supply generated through mining. This concentration of Bitcoins in the hands of fewer miners can have effects on the decentralization and security of the network, since the number of active participants in the transaction validation process is reduced. Implications for investors and the price of Bitcoin Bitcoin's reward reduction also has implications for the price and supply of the cryptocurrency. As the issuance of new Bitcoins decreases, the supply in the market reduces. This may lead to higher relative demand if Bitcoin demand continues to grow or remains stable. In previous reward reduction events, a long-term increase in Bitcoin price has been observed. This is because the decrease in the supply of new Bitcoins can lead to greater perceived scarcity and therefore an increase in their value. However, it is important to note that the price of Bitcoin is highly volatile and can be influenced by a variety of external factors, so a continued increase after reward reduction cannot be guaranteed. Bitcoin's reward reduction is a key event in the life of the cryptocurrency and has implications for both miners and investors. As the number of new Bitcoins generated is halved, miners must adapt to remain profitable and the supply of Bitcoin on the market may decrease. However, this event can also have a positive impact on the price of Bitcoin in the long term. It is important to understand and take these factors into account when evaluating investment potential in Bitcoin and the cryptocurrency market in general. Bitcoin and limited supply: a unique combination Bitcoin has captured the attention of the financial world like no other cryptocurrency. One of its most notable features is its limited supply, meaning that only a finite number of bitcoins will be created in the world. This contrasts with traditional fiat currencies, which can be printed at the discretion of governments. How does Bitcoin limited supply work? Bitcoin was designed to have a total supply of 21 million coins. As new blocks are mined by users and added to the Bitcoin blockchain, new coins are generated and distributed as rewards to miners. However, this reward is halved in an event known as "Halving", which occurs approximately every four years. Halving ensures that the rate of issuance of new bitcoins decreases over time, following a predictable mathematical function. Currently, the reward per mined block is 6.25 bitcoins, but this number is expected to reduce further in the future. This controlled scarcity mechanism is a central part of Bitcoin's monetary policy. Advantages of Bitcoin Limited Supply Bitcoin's limited supply has several significant advantages: Sense of scarcity: The limitation in the supply of Bitcoin makes it a scarce and valuable asset. As it approaches its maximum supply, demand and price are expected to increase. Inflation Protection: Unlike fiat currencies, Bitcoin cannot be inflated or devalued at the discretion of governments. Its limited supply protects it from inflation and makes it a safe store of value. Monetary stability: With carefully controlled supply, Bitcoin offers greater monetary stability compared to national currencies, which can be affected by political and economic decisions. Challenges and debates surrounding the limited supply of Bitcoin Despite the advantages, Bitcoin's limited supply has also generated debates and challenges. Some argue that the scarcity of bitcoins could hinder its mass adoption as an everyday currency. Price volatility is also an issue of concern. Furthermore, the fact that only about 80% of all existing bitcoins have been mined raises questions about how the latest bitcoins will be distributed and how this will affect the network and its sustainability in the future. Bitcoin has revolutionized the financial world with its limited supply and unique monetary policy. Controlled and predictable scarcity is an essential part of its design, providing a solid alternative to traditional fiat currencies. Although limited supply can pose challenges and debates, it also offers significant benefits, such as a sense of scarcity, protection against inflation, and monetary stability. As Bitcoin continues to mature and its supply approaches its maximum limit, its value and relevance in the financial world continues to grow, leaving investors and enthusiasts with great anticipation about its future.
[ ... ]
Meta warns about the vulnerability in password recovery linked to the recycling of phone numbers
22/02/2024Meta, a leader in social media, has announced that it will not assume responsibility for personal account theft on Instagram and Facebook related to password recovery through the use of recycled phone numbers. The company argues that it lacks control over telecommunications providers and users involved in this practice. Phone number recycling: an overlooked risk in a recent statement Meta revealed its inability to manage personal account thefts that occur when phone numbers are recycled by telecommunications carriers. This common practice among mobile phone companies involves reassigning discarded numbers to new customers, making them owners of a number previously used by another user. In countries like Spain, carriers wait for a period of 30 days before reassigning a number, but the risk persists if users do not unlink the number from digital services or associated platforms, such as social networks and emails. The danger of not unlinking phone numbers from digital accounts When users deactivate a phone number, whether due to a change of carrier or any other reason, carriers must wait before reassigning the number. However, failure to unlink this number from digital services can result in unauthorized access to personal accounts. In many services, linking the phone number is allowed for actions such as resetting passwords. Users, upon receiving a verification code on their number, can complete the login without the need for email validation or a password. This process, though accepted, can lead to unintentional unauthorized access. Meta warns users about the importance of unlinking phone numbers from digital accounts when deactivating them, insisting on the need to update associated information to prevent account theft.
[ ... ]
Europe will have its own satellites constellation to guarantee secure communications
13/12/2022With the sights set on 2027, the EU has closed a provisional agreement about the regulation of secure connectivity throughout its territory, which will include the deployment of a constellation of satellites that will ensure communications, especially in the event of cyberattacks or natural disasters that affect critical infrastructure. The plan, linked with the 'Global Gateway' strategy from the UE, that will allow the provision of affordable Internet access throughout Europe, will provide, also, secure connectivity in geographical areas of strategic interest, such the Arctic region and Africa, and services to protect the critical infrastructures of the Member states, too. The objective, according to the EU, is to ensure improvements in people's daily lives, identifying reliable and secure communications as the cornerstone of the EU's strategic autonomy.
[ ... ]
Google launches ChromeOS Flex to give a second life to outdated computers
21/07/2022Google has just introduced ChromeOS Flex, a new version of their cloud-based operating system that will allow "rejuvenating" Windows and Mac computers that have become available. The system must be downloaded directly from the web and can be installed on the computer via USB or the company network. ChromeOS Flex is now ready to give outdated Windows and Mac computers a second life. At the moment, Google has already certified nearly 300 devices compatible with ChromeOS Flex, from leading brands on the market such as Apple, Acer, Dell or Microsoft. Although Google has advanced that not having the certification does not prevent the installation of the operating system on our old computer. Some of the services offered by this operating system are, the protection against ransomware and malware; background updates; remote management of applications and, of course, the possibility of giving a new life to an outdated computer. “By installing ChromeOS Flex on an older computer, you're not only getting a great experience, you're also contributing to an important cause. Every year 40 million tons of electronic waste is generated worldwide, which is equivalent to throwing away 800 laptops every second. Updating devices to ChromeOS Flex instead of completely replacing them is one way to reduce this waste.
[ ... ]
Vodafone tests a new technology to identify the activity of their users on Internet
03/06/2022Vodafone has begin to test a new way of tracking the activity of their users on the network. This is an advertising identification system called TrustPid, which works by creating a fixed ID for each customer at the Internet Service Provider (ISP) level. After that, this ID will associates all user activity with it. The objective is to use the data obtained for the distribution of publicity and personalized advertising and to prevent publishers from losing revenue. According to the company, there is no way to circumvent the system at the browser level, blocking cookies or masking the IP address and they assure that it is a simple toll if people want to continue consuming high-quality content on the Internet without paying. “Consumers appreciate the idea of the free internet, but this needs a trade-off: publishers need a sustainable revenue model, which means adding subscription paywalls or relying on advertising to keep free access and ensure high-quality content”, they justify. At the moment, Vodafone is testing advertising identification in Germany with some of the country's largest websites, Bild.de and Deutsche Telekom, the parent company of T-Mobile.
[ ... ]
Island Browser for Business Reaches $1.3 Billion Value
06/04/2022Just some weeks after its launch, Island, the webbrowser focused in enterprise and security, has just reached a $1.3 billion valuation. Island browser is based on chromium and has been developed by two former Symantec executives, who were looking for an option configured to the web security needs of companies and not conventional users. The new browser, in addition to limiting the add-ons that many often some people install on company computers and that sometimes cause significant security breaches, incorporates specific tools to prevent this type of actions, protect SaaS applications, identify incidents and prevent data theft. Depending on the level of security required by each company, Island Browser allows, for example, to download content or not, disable or enable the copy and paste option or deny access to certain domains, among other options. From Island, also insist that their project is based on the utility and not on the consumer, so that the characterization level of Island browser it offers the minimum.
[ ... ]
Apple chooses March 8 to present their new products
07/03/2022Apple starts tomorrow, March 8, its 2022 presentation program. The company has advanced an invitation to "take a look at the performance" of its new products, and Bloomberg analyst Mark Gurman predicts that the event could host the presentation of the new iPhone SE. The first news placed this launch next April, but the fact that Apple will have this event tomorrow, suggests that the new iPhone SE will see the light before. This smartphone, explains Mark Gurman, will have support for 5G networks, a better camera and a better processor. In addition to this presentation, there is also speculation about a new iPad Air model, with a faster processor and 5G connectivity, and even a new Mac computer with the Apple Silicon processor.
[ ... ]
US Defense is working on an AI assistant to help pilots react in emergency situations
14/02/2022The US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is working on a prototype of artificial intelligence (AI) assistant that will helps pilots solve unforeseen events during flights. This AI assistant would be integrated into an Augmented Reality viewer that would train the pilots in these situations. "This tool will help teach pilots new tasks, assist in error recognition, improve task completion time, and most importantly, help prevent catastrophic events," had said the manager statement senior of the program led by Northrop Grumman, Erin Cherry. As Cherry has explained, they have focused their work on the development of an intuitive context-adaptive reasoning assistant. With its help, pilots will be able to obtain precise information and orientation of the situation, place and the context through. For this they will have an interface with graphics in augmented reality capable, among of giving indications such as turning off the engine or resuming the march.
[ ... ]
Mozilla allows the simultaneity of accounts in their VPN service
09/02/2022Mozilla has expanded the functionalities of the VPN function in Firefox, and from from now, will allow users to protect their browsing from different accounts. This function will prevent users from having to open new windows or applications to access their digital work tools and will not mix them with those for personal use. The new functionality allows is prepare to create containers with specific tabs that can be related to different environments, such as personal, work, shopping, banks and social networks, and even customize them with a different color and logo. Once this is done, the browsing histories and the 'cookies' of the pages, for example, will remain isolated from each other, offering an additional layer of privacy by protecting the browsing activity and allowing a different exit server to be set in a different location for each one of the containers. In addition, from now it will becomes possible for the same person to be register in two accounts in the same service. This new functionality of Mozilla VPN is first launched for the version for Android and iOS mobiles, and in September it will be available for desktop computers.
[ ... ]
Spain at the head of the countries that receive most "spam"
18/11/2021Once againt, the latest Kaspersky report points Spain, for the seventh consecutive quarter, as the country where users receive more malicious email. According to the report by the IT security company, Spain has received 9.55% of the world's total of this type of attack during the months of July, August and September, which means an increase of one point compared to the previous quarter. In the ranking of countries that receive most “spam”, Spain is followed by Russia, with 6.52% of attacks, Italy with 5.47%, Brazil with 5.37% and Mexico with 4. 69%. According to this same report, the main origin of these malicious emails is Russia, 24.9%, followed by Germany, 14.19% and China, 10.31%.The large amount of these “spam” emails during this last quarter have been related to “phishing” pages
[ ... ]
Google introduces its new translation features
17/11/2021In the recent Google event, Inventors @ Google, this IT company has made an exhaustive review of their progress in different projects that are currently underway. Among these developments, Google's new real-time translation function stands out. This new function will sent the user translation suggestions related to the messages they receive in a different language. In addition, this function will allow the users to dictate messages with voice, and these messages will be automatically translated into another language. Google has also advanced the novelties of its "language interpreter mode" of its Assistant, which uses the Pixel 6's Tensor processor to automatically translate the voice into different languages, acting as an interpreter in real life.
[ ... ]
Apple will allow reporting scams in applications from the App Store
08/10/2021Apple allows again to report problems with the applications of the App Store through a button that had been withdrawn years ago. This new functionality will prevent users to make a long and tedious circuit of forms and logins to make the report. The recovery of this function arrives as part of the iOS 15 update and includes as one of its main novelties, the scam incorporation into the list of options offered by the problem’s reporting.
[ ... ]
What is web hosting and why do you need it?
09/09/2021If you are thinking of creating your own website or if, on the contrary, you already have one and are looking for a better web hosting service, you probably have many doubts concerning web hosting: what exactly is it, what are its different types, why do I need it, etc. For this reason, here we offer you a clear and simple guide to web hosting. What is web hosting? Web hosting is a service that allows organizations and individuals to post a website or web page onto the Internet so that it can be consulted at any time and from any place and device. The content of the websites is stored, therefore, in web servers. These servers allow the content to be accessible via the World Wide Web. For all those who do not know the term, a web server is a piece of computer equipment that is much more powerful than any conventional computer and that is connected to the Internet 24 hours a day to enable access to the contents it stores. Different types of web hosting are offered based on the web server: shared hosting, VPS, cloud hosting, WordPress hosting, elastic hosting, etc. These services are offered by web hosts such as Webempresa, which provide space on a server for use by clients. Why do you need web hosting? Web hosting allows your website to be always online and available worldwide and for everyone. Therefore, even if you can afford to buy your own server and have a fast internet connection, it is advisable to hire a web hosting service, as it will be much cheaper. Web hosts have their own servers to host their clients' websites. These servers are located in a Data Processing Center (DPC): an infrastructure that has the most advanced security systems and stable and secure internet connections, which prevent errors in the services. What are the different types of web hosting? Although there are different types of web hosting in the market, the most common are the following: shared hosting, dedicated hosting, VPS (Virtual Private Server) hosting, cloud hosting, reseller hosting, and WordPress hosting. Each of them meets the needs of a particular group of customers. Shared hosting is the most basic type of web hosting. The provider rents small spaces on a single server to different websites. In this way, all customers have their own space to host their content, while sharing server resources such as CPU, processor, RAM, bandwidth, or IP address. In contrast, a dedicated hosting service is a type of web hosting in which the client leases an entire server and does not share it with anyone else. Although shared hosting works very well, a dedicated server stands out because it is never affected by existing traffic and because it has a higher level of security. A virtual private server (VPS) is basically a server running within a server. One physical server hosts multiple virtual servers, each isolated from the others. Each VPS runs its own operating system, independent of the others. The features offered by a virtual private server are very similar to those of shared hosting. At the same time, it offers all the benefits of a dedicated server. Cloud hosting works in a very similar way to the "cloud" where we store all kinds of documents. This is because all the resources that are used to collect the information of a website are executed from a cloud server. The main difference between cloud hosting and other web hosting types is that, in this case, you only pay for the services you use. Reseller hosting is another type of web hosting. It is basically white-label web hosting. A person buys hosting from a provider and then resells those services to his/her clients. This allows the creation of hosting plans and external domains or subdomains. The last type of web hosting we will talk about here is email hosting, which allows you to register a domain name and therefore have a professional email service. This type of web hosting is highly recommended for businesses or individuals that intend to convey an image of seriousness and trust. Thus, thanks to email hosting, you will be able to have a personalized email address, more storage space, and a higher level of security.
[ ... ]
Macro cyber-attack affects more than 350 companies worldwide
07/07/2021The number of companies that have suffered from the REvil macro cyberattack now exceeds 350 organizations worldwide from which the cybercriminals are demanding 70 million in bitcoins to provide them with a universal decryptor to restore their data. The attack was conducted through the update system of IT services software company Kaseya, which REvil exploited to spread and hide ransomware. The virus was leaked to TI Kaseya resellers and from there has reached all end customers using their software. The official data provided by TI Kaseya sets the number of affected companies at 350, although other sources such as the cybersecurity company ESET talk about more than 1,000, including some Spanish organizations, although no names have been disclosed. It has been made public that one of the companies most affected by the cyberattack has been the Swedish supermarket chain Coop, which has had to close its more than 800 points of sale for a few days due to the impossibility of using its cash registers or charging customers. Based on Sophos threat intelligence, REvil has been active in recent weeks and is currently the dominant ransomware gang involved in Sophos' defensively managed threat response cases. Prior to this latest attack, they were also responsible for the one suffered by meat company JBS, which forced the cancellation of all work shifts at the company's slaughterhouses in the US. JBS paid up to 11 million to restore normal operations. These macro cyber-attacks are in addition to other recent and highly significant ones, such as the one perpetrated by the hacker group DarkSide, which forced the preventive shutdown of the largest oil pipeline network in the United States, Colonial Pipeline, endangering the supply of fuel in a large part of the country, or the one suffered by the SEPE and the Ministry of Labor in Spain a few weeks ago.
[ ... ]
How to keep your Mac safe?
28/06/20215 things you should do to protect your Mac How many times have we heard that Mac is a more than secure and unbreakable system? For years, Apple has made its security through obscurity, or in other words, its proprietary software, flagship and brand guarantee. Today, however, just when Mac is no longer a minority option, Steve Jobs' system has become another favorite target for hackers and cybercriminals. The market has responded to this with the development of specific protection tools for Mac, while Apple works on optimizing its system in each version. Knowing what kind of tools exist for Mac and which ones are already included in our computer will help us to stay safe and choose the best strategy that fits our needs and use of the equipment. 1. Use computer security tools Cybersecurity is a universal and necessary practice in all operating systems today. The objective is to ensure protection against attacks and theft by cybercriminals who are looking for personal or confidential information stored on our computers or that enters or leaves them, in order to use it for their own benefit. What is VPN security? Cybersecurity tools help us to minimize our footprint on the Internet and thus increase our privacy and security. In this regard, VPN services for Mac stand out, as they incorporate advanced protection technologies capable of connecting to the Internet through intermediate servers, so that our IP address - our identification on the network - is replaced by the IP address of this secure server, without anyone being able to trace our connection. This type of VPN service also encrypts any information leaving our computer, thus preventing it from being accessed on its journey to its destination. This is essential, for example, when using public Wi-Fi networks to connect to the Internet. 2. Keep the operating system and software up to date As simple as it may seem, one of the best and easiest ways to protect a Mac is to always have the latest version of the operating system installed and to work with updated software downloaded from the Mac App Store. System updates usually include security patches, among other things. How do I update my Mac? Through the System Preferences Panel of our computer we can set that when there are available updates we receive a notice from MacOs warning us of it or that these updates, whether system data files, security updates or official software are installed automatically. To check if we are working with the latest versions available and our Mac is up to date we can do it by checking through this same panel if there are updates available at that time. If we have checked the automatic updates option, Mac will do this task for us routinely. 3. Use secure settings Mac's default security settings can be greatly enhanced by manually configuring the security and privacy terms of our computer. How to change the Privacy and Security preferences on the Mac? By accessing the "Privacy" tab of the "Security and Privacy" option of the Control Panel we will have the option to manage what information we allow our computer to make available to others over the Internet or on a network and what applications we allow access to our data and files. In the same way, but through the "Security" tab, we will be able to incorporate passwords for the access to different tasks and operations of the computer and through the "FileVault" tool we will be able to ensure the encryption, for example, of our personal information or certain documents for which a password will be required to unblock them. 4. Use an Antivirus for Mac There are antivirus programs developed specifically for Mac. Some of them are special for certain threats, although in general most of them offer a wide range of services to help us keep our computers safe. Which is the best antivirus for Mac? The range of antivirus for Mac, free and paid, is nowadays much wider than a few years ago, highlighting among the most complete and advanced, antivirus with malware protection functions in real time, tools against digital identity theft, protection against spyware or advanced detection and removal of blackmail programs. 5. Make regular backups Apple has a native function, Time Machine, which makes backup copies of our hard disk on a separate secondary disk, so that if for any reason we suffer an attack or a breakdown we can recover all the information. Many antiviruses offer a backup service, backup or backup similar but in the cloud, as a preventive measure against writing errors on the disk, theft of devices or even against data hijacking or ransomware.
[ ... ]
What is the value of a Bitcoin?
11/06/2021Since Bitcoin first appeared in 2009, this digital currency not issued by any government or company, nor, under the umbrella of any kind of economic policy, has gained a foothold in the market and has already started to fit into existing legal frameworks. What gives Bitcoin its value? The great value of Bitcoin is that it is a decentralized and global currency, an alternative to fiat currencies (those issued by governments). All transactions with Bitcoins are public and each of these crypto currencies belongs exclusively to its owner, therefore, it is a currency that cannot be intervened by anyone. What can I do with Bitcoins? To date, with this cryptocurrency, it is possible to monetize all kinds of services, in addition to making investments, free or practically free of commissions, which in the medium to long term are proving attractive. This has made Bitcoin an asset in which to invest and an increasingly popular means of payment through which to transfer value from one user to another without losing friction along the way, going through an intermediary or paying a commission. What is the price of a Bitcoin? Like any other good, the price of a Bitcoin varies according to market demand, although the fact that it has been designed to behave as a deflationary asset and that its supply is limited to 21 million coins, facilitates that by the law of supply and demand itself, the Bitcoin exchange rate tends to rise continuously. As of June 9, at the time of writing this article, the Bitcoin value today is 30,007.86 euros, 3.4 times its price a year ago, when the Bitcoin to Euro conversion rate was 8,629.5 Bitcoins for 1 euro. In 2010 Bitcoin price was less than one Euro cent. What does the value of Bitcoin depend on? The value of Bitcoin depends on the trust and acceptance of users to use it, hence why Bitcoin is rising in value some days and not others. As Bitcoin has been implemented as a means of payment in multiple transactions and its popularity has grown, its value has grown in parallel. Likewise, when there have been news or events that have questioned, for example, the suitability of this crypto currency, its price has fallen. Like any other currency, the price of Bitcoin fluctuates and it is the users themselves who set it at the time of the purchase and sale transaction, which prevents the existence of a single price for Bitcoin, since it is not operated through a single platform as is the case with other currencies. Even so, buying and selling prices of Bitcoins tend to be quite similar. To know how much Bitcoin costs, there are several online platforms, known as "Bitcoin trading platforms" that report live the evolution of the value of the cryptocurrency. Is it safe and profitable to invest in Bitcoin? As with any other asset, investing in Bitcoins is profitable if we know how to do it at the right time. On the other hand, the Blockchain technology on which Bitcoin is based is reliable and difficult to manipulate, with no risk of being counterfeited, although some experts believe that the perfect, 100% inviolable system has not yet been created. In the cryptocurrency segment, convertibility is contemplated, so that Bitcoins can be exchanged for fiat currencies. What can I buy with Bitcoins? Over the last few years, a large number of companies have incorporated Bitcoin as an official method of payment for their goods and services From travel companies to ticket sales platforms for all kinds of shows, through gaming platforms, digital bookstores, software stores or even non-profit organizations already accept this digital currency. That is, Destinia, 13tickets, Gear Best, Shopify, Wordpress, Hostinger, Greenpeace,... among many other companies. eBay is currently considering adding Bitcoin as a method of payment. What is Bitcoin mining and how are Bitcoins generated? The users themselves through a totally decentralized system create Bitcoins. To become a bitcoin creator, computers with high computational capacity are needed to process and verify transactions and quickly solve the complex digital processes of generating the currency. This work is called mining and one of its best attractions is that the system offers "miners" rewards in Bitcoins in exchange for these services, which has made this activity very appealing for certain users. Is it profitable to mine Bitcoins in Spain? Bitcoin mining requires very powerful equipment, with high calculation capacities to solve operations, being nowadays totally inoperative for this operation the PCs of domestic or office use. The investment to mine Bitcoins requires, in addition, to assume the large power consumption required by this more powerful equipment, which makes Spain, at this time due to the high price of KW/h, an uninteresting market for mining Bitcoins. On the contrary, other locations such as China, Iceland, Iran or Georgia, where the Bitcoin mining business is in full expansion, are very interesting.
[ ... ]
What can I do if my computer runs very slow?
22/05/2021If your computer is running slow, do not despair. The use of a computer like any other machine needs proper maintenance and the performance of our PC can be severely affected by the lack of attention to this task. But, don't worry, if you want your computer to work as it did on the first day, we explain how to get it back. Why is my computer so slow? Computer slowness can be due to hardware, software, connectivity and even tidiness and cleanliness problems! Every computer needs a minimum maintenance so these failures can be avoided and only if we pay this kind of attention we can ensure an always-optimal performance for our computer, prolong its life and work or enjoy our PC, without despairing. I have tried everything, but my computer is still very slow. What can I do? If your computer is slow and you have already tried the typical things like closing secondary tasks, disabling the automatic execution of programs, you have verified that you have free space on the hard disk and restarted the PC, and everything is still the same, it is clear that something is wrong with your machine and you should consider resorting to a professional computer repair service, so that they can fix it. You can search a thousand videos on the Internet, but... do you really know why your computer is slow? Why does your computer start up very slowly? Or why has your computer become slow after a while of working with it? Are you sure that what you want to do will not end up causing another error or, even worse, another more serious problem? Is it necessary to go to a professional Computer Repair Service to fix the slow computer problem? The answer is yes, if what we are looking for is to really fix the problem and prevent it from happening again. You can save a lot of time and money by using a professional computer repair service. The best computer repair services work with specialized technicians who have the necessary knowledge to make a quick and accurate diagnosis that will allow you to give your computer a new lease of life. In addition, professional computer repair services have the right tools and all the licensed software to be able to intervene. What will a Computer Repair Service do to speed up my slow PC? The first and foremost thing that a professional computer maintenance service can offer you is a maintenance plan for your computer, tailored to your needs. With this alone, you will most likely avoid many problems related to the performance of your machine, including speed problems, right from the start. They will be able to, among other things, repair or replace any part of your computer causing any problem, they will perform a deep search for viruses to eliminate them; and if necessary, they can clean the cooling system of your computer to remove internal dust, one of the most common causes of slow computer performance - dust accumulated in the internal fans can reduce their efficiency and cause overheating of the machine and its mechanical components -. Sometimes we think about replacing the machine when a simple repair and a good maintenance can bring our PC back to life. When was the last time you had your computer serviced?
[ ... ]
Microclaudia, the Spanish antivirus that makes the attacker think the system is already infected
28/01/2021The National Cryptologic Center (CCN-CERT) and the cyber security company S2 Grup have created "Microclaudia", a tool designed as a vaccine against malware that makes the attacking agent to believe the computer is already infected. "Microclaudia", which can work in parallel to any other protection system already installed on the computer, runs on the system and prevents the attacking of several malwares that are currently in circulation. According to the creators of "Microclaudia", this new antivirus is an important step forward to put an end to the damage caused daily by cybercrime in Spain, the second most common crime, only after theft.
[ ... ]