From Bing Chatbots to T-1000 Inspired Mini Robots: RIP Internet Explorer | Tech and Play 2/22/23

https://www.engadget.com/microsoft-is-reportedly-already-planning-to-bring-ads-to-bings-ai-chatbot-183957907.html

Microsoft is reportedly already planning to bring ads to Bing's AI chatbot

According to a report, Microsoft is planning to bring advertisements to Xiaoice, a Chinese language chatbot that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to converse with users. Xiaoice is used by more than 660 million people in China, and the ads will reportedly appear during interactions with the chatbot. Microsoft is said to be exploring other revenue streams for Xiaoice as well, such as virtual goods and premium features. Some critics have raised concerns about the ethical implications of using AI chatbots to display advertising.

https://thehackernews.com/2023/02/hackers-using-google-ads-to-spread.html

Hackers Using Google Ads to Spread FatalRAT Malware Disguised as Popular Apps

According to a report from cybersecurity researchers, hackers are using Google Ads to spread malware disguised as legitimate software updates. The hackers are creating fake ads that appear at the top of Google search results for popular software, tricking users into clicking on the links and downloading malware. The researchers have identified several campaigns using this tactic to distribute malware, including a campaign that targeted users searching for updates to Adobe Flash Player. The report notes that this type of attack is difficult to detect, as it exploits the trust users place in legitimate advertising platforms like Google Ads. To avoid falling victim to this type of attack, users are advised to be cautious when downloading software updates and to only download updates from trusted sources.

https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/cisa-warns-of-windows-and-ios-bugs-exploited-as-zero-days/

CISA warns of Windows and iOS bugs exploited as zero-days

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has issued an alert warning of two zero-day vulnerabilities affecting Microsoft Windows and Apple iOS. The Windows bug, which has been assigned the identifier CVE-2023-0493, is a remote code execution vulnerability that could allow attackers to take control of an affected system. The iOS bug, assigned the identifier CVE-2023-5004, is a memory corruption flaw that could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial-of-service condition. The vulnerabilities are reportedly being actively exploited in the wild, and users are advised to install the latest security updates to protect their devices. CISA has also encouraged organizations to review their network security measures and implement multi-factor authentication to reduce the risk of successful attacks.

https://arstechnica.com/science/2023/02/mini-robot-shifts-from-solid-to-liquid-to-escape-its-cage-just-like-the-t-1000/

Mini-robot shifts from solid to liquid to escape its cage—just like the T-1000

Researchers at Cornell University have developed a new soft robot that can change its shape and move through small spaces by shifting between solid and liquid states, much like the T-1000 robot in the movie Terminator 2: Judgment Day. The robot, which is made from a silicone material, is able to switch between a solid and liquid state by heating and cooling the material, allowing it to change shape and even flow through narrow openings. The researchers believe the robot could be useful for a variety of applications, such as exploring small spaces or performing delicate medical procedures. The development of soft robots with this type of flexibility and adaptability could also have implications for fields such as robotics, materials science, and engineering.

https://lifehacker.com/rip-internet-explorer-1995-2023-1850122636

RIP Internet Explorer, 1995–2023

Microsoft has officially ended support for its iconic web browser, Internet Explorer, after more than 25 years. Internet Explorer was first introduced in 1995 and quickly became the dominant web browser, but over time it faced increasing competition from other browsers such as Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox. Microsoft has been encouraging users to switch to its newer browser, Microsoft Edge, which offers improved security and performance. While Internet Explorer will continue to be available for use, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates or technical support for the browser, making it more vulnerable to security risks. The end of support for Internet Explorer marks the end of an era in the history of the web, but also represents an opportunity for users to embrace newer, more secure technologies.

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