WannaCry ransomware attack affects millions

The first ever global worm-based ransomware attack – WannaCry –crippled close to 150 countries in May 2017. Ransomware usually spreads via email, relying on human intervention to initiate infection.

In a matter of hours, WannaCry spread to Internet-connected computers infecting many that were unpatched and exposed to the Internet.

In particular, the ransomware exploited older Windows operating systems, including Windows XP.

The attack was a stark reminder about keeping antivirus, firewall and operating systems up-to-date.

The IT security industry is exploiting machine learning to enhanced preparedness and threat response speeds.

Can Machine Learning help mitigate ransomware attacks?

https://www.spireresearch.com/newsroom/spirethoughts/wannacry-ransomware-attack-affects-millions/

Comments

FIFA World Cup 2018 holds lessons for successful team building

The FIFA World Cup 2018 is widely seen as one of the best World Cups in recent memory, with many surprises and goals aplenty. One talking point was the role of teamwork as opposed to just superstar talent. What lessons can businesses learn from the beautiful game? Leon Perera, CEO of Spire Research and Consulting, shared his thoughts in The Business Times – Views from the Top section on 23 July 2018. As World Cup fever draws to an end, the game lived up to its hype with breath-taking goals and outstanding performances. Perera highlighted the role of 'team effort' over mere individual talent, which was evident in the early failure of teams with world-class superstars like Argentina and Portugal. Perera also pointed out the importance of investing in new talent pipeline development, which paid rich dividends for France, the winning team and also one of the youngest teams in the World Cup. The game also highlighted the role of risk-taking. A relentless approach t...

Spirethoughts: No show for Wal-Mart in India

The highly anticipated re-entry of one of the biggest names in retail, Wal-Mart, into India was a huge disappointment. It has recently dissolved a six-year joint venture with Bharti Enterprises, and eagerly awaits the upcoming general elections; which could mean easing up of restriction on foreign retailers. At present, the laws required foreign retailers to source 30 per cent of their goods from small and medium-sized suppliers; making it harder for them to compete against domestic supermarkets which are not saddled with such restrictions. Besides, foreign investors are obligated to partner a domestic player so as to enter the India market, with up to 51 percent ownership in local operations. This has resulted in rising investors’ concerns with regards to having no control over the domestic business. Besides, the brand’s reputation could be tarnished if the local player engages in unethical acts, such as corruption and tax battles. Other global retailers are keeping a cl...

Zapping away viruses

A new germ-zapping robot manufactured by Xenex in the U.S. could emerge as a saviour against deadly viruses like Ebola. It uses pulses of high-intensity, high-energy ultra-violet rays to crack bacterial cell walls and kill virus-afflicting pathogens. It has been successfully tested on 22 different microorganisms – destroying viruses similar to Ebola. Standing at 5 feet and bearing the nickname “Saul”, the ultra-violet rays it emits are 25,000 times brighter than fluorescent lights and can kill pathogens that are generally missed by the naked eye. A few surgical teams in the United States have been trained to use this technology on Ebola patients. According to research, hospitals with access to this technology have been able to bring down general infection rates by 60%. It is already being used in 250 hospitals. Can such technology breakthroughs arrest global pandemics in the 21st century? https://www.spireresearch.com/newsroom/spirethoughts/zapping-away-viruses/

Amazon has entered the healthcare sector.

Amazon is eyeing the healthcare sector. It has rolled out a line of private label, over-the-counter medicines along with medical supplies for hospitals, doctors and dentists. Whether it is selling prescription or generic drugs, Amazon seems poised to disrupt the healthcare industry. However, Amazon faces its own share of hurdles. It will need licenses from each state to be able to sell medical supplies. Medical practitioners may prefer to stay loyal existing sales channels. Waiting 24 to 48 hours for a pain or cold medicine means that customers may still run to the nearest pharmacy. Will Amazon disrupt the healthcare industry? For more information, click here.

Korea needs to focus on developing service robots

The Korean robotics industry grew by 60% a year between 2005 and 2011. Korea has a strong position in industrial robots. Now, the government’s focus should now be on developing service robots to sustain growth. Spire Research and Consulting shared its insights, published on the Business Korea news portal. Korea’s industrial robot sector is larger than any country’s, except for Japan, China and the U.S. However, the service robot sector is emerging as a new growth hotbed, thanks to the accelerated use of artificial intelligence. However, Korea does not have any companies that specialize in the development of service robots. It will take time to further develop Korea’s service robotics technology which is where the government and Korean enterprises need to step in and focus so as to claim early global leadership. https://www.spireresearch.com/newsroom/media/korea-needs-to-focus-on-developing-service-robots/

The Knowledge to Decide

Search This Blog