Review – The Gatekeeper Halberd token. #GateKeeper #Security

The Gatekeeper Halberd token is a proximity-based 2FA technology which is a combination of the security key and password manager. This works on the principle that for a computer that is left unlocked with weak passwords ( in violation of many corporate policies on IT security ) the GateKeeper Halberd token use proximity-based authentication sensors via Bluetooth to Lock or unlock the Computer. This allows the automation of security taking the risk out of the individual user been automated. The Gatekeeper can be configured to one computer or the option to be configured to numbers as per the individual or corporate policies. Web accounts are similar in the passwords are stored on the gatekeeper centralised password manager removing the need to remember numerous passwords for 100’s of sites. The option of one time passwords is available.

Features:

The Gatekeeper can come as an individual service, as a once-off purchase for the hardware/software etc or an enterprise version:

Setup:

The setup involved using 2 different software, one for Proximity and one for the password manager, For individual use – https://gkaccess.com/downloads/ (Mac also available )

The  software is installed  with the dashboard configured,

The token option is ticked, add

Add a new device, which connects to the Bluetooth device and the Halberd token ( no need to manually enter and details )

 

 

 

This can be configured to be set up for a new user via the dashboard,  the user can be given a four to 8 digit code to use the gatekeeper. IT departments have full access to set up individuals to a computer or allow multiple staff to access one computer.

 

In the event of loss / forget a Token,  this can be configured as a loan token or factory reset of the lost token removing the option to access the computer. Additional security can be set up to include proximity & a unique pin code for a user.

 

 

GateKeeper Password Manager

This is set up via the GateKeeper desktop application to provide proximity-based access to web passwords.  This is set up as a new  extension  on the chrome browser to allow OTP to your website,

 

 

A challenge for an individual user is where they use example Facebook,  LinkedIn and require to access this, this may involve info from an OTP which would not be accessible from a temporary computer which is not connected via a Token.

An optional additional USB Bluetooth Proximity Sensor can be supplied to allow proximity set up where the PC USB is inaccessible allowing for extended coverage set up.   

The individual user data is stored locally on the Laptop, in the event of loss of the token, the enterprise is stored on the network with a cloud version expected in the next few months.

 

Company:

Untethered Labs, Inc Gatekeeper is a USA company set up in 2015. They develop advanced wireless proximity access control solutions that act as the first line of defence for preventing unauthorized access to enterprise computers and websites.

They provide automated privileged access management solutions for a wide range of industries including healthcare, MSP/MSSPs, law enforcement, manufacturing, and finance. Their technology increases security and reduces support costs with touchless, proximity-based two-factor computer authentication, centralized enterprise password management, and auditing. They have partners in a variety of countries UK, France, Germany, and  Australia, the individual option can be purchased directly from GateKeeper,  the enterprise option is available directly or via their partner network.

 

 Overall:

The Gatekeeper Halberd token is ideal for those in a highly regulated environment while can be used in any environment which requires good security practice.  ISO27001 requires on leaving a laptop, the laptop should be locked, the proximity sensor is ideal for this as automating the process. Staff should be focussed on the day to day job not focussing on the IT department requirements for security. The ability to configure multiple workstations from one Halberd token is great allowing supervisor access to multiple systems in a controlled environment. Many articles on the web flag passwords are dead,  this product is another nail in the coffin for the traditional password allowing flexibility to use and multiple sites without the need for multiple passwords.  This is a dual-purpose device,  security to lock your PC and password protection for your websites.  Any technology that automates the cybersecurity process improves compliance, reduces support costs,  enhancing security and removing the weaker link of the human intervention is a winner.

 

https://gkaccess.com/store/

Review – The Jabra Evolve2 65. #Jabra #JabraEvolve2 #Office #Home #WFM #Tech

The Jabra Evolve2 65 came in the standard colours with their marketing giving clear details of the features of the earphones.  The packaging as with the product looks professional with the packing also defined as crafted with 100% recyclable material. The internal packing was set up as a quick user guide on the features of the individual buttons.

The headset is made of ultra-soft foam cushion covered in colour-matched silicone, ear cushion soft audio foam covered in colour-matched leatherette,  with an aluminium slider arm. The headset connects to multiple devices wirelessly simultaneous, e.g. laptop and phone,

 

Contents:

  •         Headset,
  •         Desk stand
  •         Jabra Link 380 BT adapter, 1.2m/3.9ft
  •         USB-C to USB-A cable,
  •         soft pouch for the headset (not for the stand)
  •         Warranty and warning (safety leaflets)
  • Weight – Stereo 176.4g/6.22ozThe weight is important in terms of wearing for hours, which is comfortable.

 

 

 Key features

  •         Noise-isolating design for ideal concentration: Keeps external sounds out for better work collaboration and listening experience in any environment
  •         Long battery life and improved busy light: Keep interruptions to a minimum with up to 37 hours of battery life – the integrated red LED light shows ongoing conversations
  •         Be heard and understood, wherever you are: 3 microphones, an enhanced digital chipset and the boom arm offer you the best possible audio quality
  •         This Evolve2 65 headset is MS Teams-certified with a dedicated Teams button and meets MS Teams open office requirements
  •         Warranty 2-year warranty

 

The plug-and-play experience includes these benefits:

  •         Automatic selection as the default audio device.
  •         A dedicated Microsoft Teams button to Notifications of Microsoft Teams LED flashes purple when. Microsoft Teams meeting ready to join. Microsoft Teams missed call. …
  •         Voice prompt when the user is wearing the headset.

 

Battery, Charging

The unit came with a Desk stand charger USB A which can be plugged in a standard USB charger or direct to a Laptop.  The headset has 2  gold contacts for the desk stand, alternatively, a USB C charging lead  ( as supplied with most modern Android phones ) can be used. A full charge can provide 37 hours of battery life in 90 minutes. A fast charge of 15 minutes can provide 8 hours of battery life.  While the Desk stand charger is ideal to store and charge the headset, this is an item not used as on the few occasions when the battery was getting low ( as advised on the phone app ) connecting to a power brick with a standard USB C charger cable meant the headset did not need to be removed from its primary purpose. The battery life of 37 hours is great with the option to shut down if not used within the app functionality.

 

Setup:

On the Jabra Evolve2 65, slide and hold (3 seconds) the on/Off/Pairing switch in the “Pairing” position until the LED flashes blue and the Jabra Evolve2 65 announces pairing mode. On your Android device, go to Apps, Settings, Connections, Bluetooth. Ensure Bluetooth is turned On. Your Android device will automatically search for available devices. When the name of your product appears on-screen, tap it to start pairing. When pairing is complete, your Jabra Evolve2 65 is ready to use with your mobile device. If you need to pair a second device, or if the initial pairing fails, restart the pairing process from the beginning.

 LED colours and behaviours.

 

App

Download the Jabra Sound + app for the phone as the setup in the standard for android,

 

Laptop / PC

The Jabra Link Bluetooth adapter can be plugged directly into the USB port as Jabra device is pre-paired in the box. The Jabra Link Bluetooth adapter supports plug-and-play functionality, without needing to install separate software drivers on the computer.

 

Teams calls

The Evolve2 models that are certified for Microsoft Teams support Microsoft Teams as a plug-and-play experience. The plug-and-play experience includes these benefits:

  •         Automatic selection as the default audio device.

A dedicated Microsoft Teams button to:

  •         Notifications of Microsoft Teams LED flashes purple when
  •         Microsoft Teams meeting ready to join
  •         Microsoft Teams missed call
  •         Microsoft Teams voicemails
  •         Microsoft Teams LED flashes green with an incoming Microsoft Teams call
  •         Invocations
  •         Answering incoming Microsoft Teams calls
  •         Opening the meeting “pre-join” screen
  •         Open missed calls screen
  •         Open Microsoft Teams voicemail screen
  •         Bring up Microsoft Teams client from the background
  •         Voice prompt when the user is wearing the headset

 

 

Niggles

Slight niggles were noticed on the boom mic which can be obtrusive when not in use listening to music, the boom mic cannot be disconnected or removed. On receipt of 2 calls e.g. from a laptop teams call and mobile call, the answering can be confusing in terms of the buttons to press, this takes practice to become familiar with the buttons like any other new product I guess.Most modern products as such are the same be it on one side or the other and no removable or detachable. 

 

Overall:

The Jabra Evolve2 65 is quality in the physical feel of the headset, the software is tried and tested from previous models and works well. The core function of making and receiving calls via your phone or Laptop worked easily, The added featured of mute, physically moving the mic to mute or unmute, other standard features we typically expect worked well. It is also a viable product for personal music but Jabra excell here in other areas with the 85H Evolve 2 85  which Jim is testing right now and so far has been more than impressed with these as a hybrid answer or their latest True Wireless the elite active 75t which is tough to beat, with Jabra products they both suit our needs in the environments we both work in which sees different scenarios and some similar and Jabra products fit the bill perfectly and fulfil our needs and more when it comes to quality and features. 

The software provides options for bass depth and clear treble for music, the office functionality in terms of  Microsoft Teams and the consistency in call quality and connection provides a  seamless experience. The Jabra does the simple thing right, connection to multiple devices simultaneously, provided clear call quality and audio experience,  another quality product from a quality company,  A pearl of audio communication experience.

 https://www.amazon.co.uk/Jabra-Evolve2-Wireless-Headset-USB/dp/B086KBXB3G

The Jabra Evolve2 65 was supplied to us by Jabra with no preview or copy approval and no compensation was provided. You see our reviews the same time the brands we work with do. Additional text and unboxing video by Jim O Brien.

SHURE Partners with Adobe to provide mobile creators with two month Adobe premiere rush subscription Motiv purchases. #Shure #Adobe

Shure has partnered with Adobe to offer a two-month subscription of Adobe Premiere Rush for customers who purchase a Shure MOTIV ™ Microphone starting July 1, 2020 through December 31, 2020. Specifically designed for mobile creators, Adobe Premiere Rush is a premium video editing software that gives users the flexibility to record and edit pro-quality video content on their mobile devices wherever they are. When used together with MOTIV microphones, content creators can record professional quality audio right out of the box.

“By partnering with Adobe, MOTIV customers now have full video editing capabilities at their fingertips,” said Paul Crognale, Senior Marketing Manager of Musician and Consumer Audio, at Shure. “They can easily create a professional production on the go while also saving valuable time with the intuitive Adobe Premiere Rush software.”

To inspire content creators, Shure enlisted professional videographer Paul Hüttemann to produce the cinematic short film, "The Sounds Of India & Sri Lanka," using only his mobile device, the Shure MV88+ Video Kit, and Adobe Premiere Rush. Watch the film here and learn how he created the film with behind-the-scenes footage here.

“The MOTIV x Rush combination is a perfect set up for filmmakers,” said Hüttemann of huettehuette. “You can record great sounds, customize the file names in ShurePlus MOTIV app, and sync shots to accelerate and finalize footage on the go with Adobe Premiere Rush.”

Shure’s award-winning MOTIV line of microphones enables creators to produce high-quality audio with ease. Now users can take their professional-grade content captured with MOTIV, edit the footage directly in Adobe Rush Premiere, and share to all social channels on the go. Available on both mobile and desktop, the software syncs all content to the cloud, making it easy to work across mobile and desktop platforms. The microphones that are part of the promotion include:

MV88+ Video Kit – Portable audio and video recording kit features a digital stereo condenser microphone, a Manfrotto ® PIXI tripod, phone clamp, and mount as well as Lightning and USB-C cables for next-level compatibility and connectivity. Just add phone to capture content wherever.
MV88 Digital Stereo Condenser Microphone – Connected via the Lightning port on iOS, the MV88 records video with crystal clear sound and captures the performance of a lifetime. This multi-directional masterpiece tilts, rotates, and is made to withstand demanding conditions, producing best-in-class stereo audio.
MV51 Digital Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone – The MV51 offers unparalleled audio in all- metal construction with simple touch panel controls. Deny distortion and enjoy sound excellence in every environment, from demo sessions to field recordings.
MV5 Digital Condenser Microphone – The MV5 delivers pristine sound recording via Lightning or USB directly to your mobile or desktop, without sound distortion. Use vocal, instrument, or flat settings to customize recordings.

MVL Lavalier Microphone – Compatible with smartphones and tablets, this omnidirectional condenser microphone connects to portable devices for interviews, videography, and more with superior acoustic clarity.

This limited-time offer gives customers an added value of $28 USD with every purchase and is available worldwide in all countries where Adobe is permitted. Customers can sign up and register for their Premiere Rush subscription at: www.shure.com/adobe.

Health tech company Neurovalens raises more than £5 million for R&D and growth. #HealthTech #Belfast #Neurovalens

Neurovalens, a global healthtech company headquartered in Belfast and San Diego, has raised £5.1 million in funding, which will be used to expand on the success of its initial clinical trials and develop its technology’s application for other medical conditions.

The funding round was led by IQ Capital and also included investment from Wharton Asset Management Company, The Angel CoFund (ACF), Techstart Ventures, Co-Fund II managed by Clarendon Fund Managers and the UK Government’s Future Fund.

Neurovalens’ technology was created in collaboration with world renowned research facilities at the University of California San Diego. The vision of the company is to use technology that can influence the brainstem and hypothalamus in a non-invasive way to cure or treat neurological diseases, without the need for implanted electrodes.

 

CEO and co-founder of Neurovalens, Dr Jason McKeown said: “We are delighted to receive this investment and support at such a critical time for our business. Our work in the US and the success of the trials we have run to date have demonstrated the potential of our technology and encouraged us to pursue other applications. With this financing and the backing of our investors we can accelerate our mission of delivering effective and non-invasive solutions for some of the most common and debilitating medical conditions.”

The funding will be used for clinical trial research and development in the UK and abroad, as well as hiring additional staff. This will facilitate the development of Neurovalens’ technology – which is going through FDA and EU regulatory approvals – towards use as an approved medical treatment around the world. Neurovalens is already in the final phase of trials for obesity and aims to have approval for insomnia and anxiety devices in the next 12 months, with diabetes trials slated for 2021.

Kerry Baldwin, Managing Partner of IQ Capital commented: “IQ Capital is delighted to further support Neurovalens on their mission to deliver medical technology that can transform the lives of those who suffer from metabolic or neurological diseases. This funding will allow Neurovalens to accelerate their entry into the US healthcare system and to establish the technology as doctor-prescribed treatments for four of the biggest global health epidemics.”

Gaby Salem, Managing Director of Wharton Asset Management Company said: “This is a very exciting time for Neurovalens as they approach their first medical device approvals. This round of funding will enable Neurovalens to primarily focus on gaining traction within the US reimbursement sector while also continuing to develop the technology for further US FDA approvals.”

Tim Mills, Managing Partner of the Angel CoFund said: “The Neurovalens team have developed a truly innovative technique to help people combat an array of health challenges. As such, they are a rare example of a startup that really has the potential to fundamentally affect the sector they are in, changing how clinicians treat certain conditions. It is exciting to see the team at Neurovalens continue to grow and the success of their clinical trials, and we look forward to seeing the team continue to push boundaries in health tech.”

Techstart NI and Co-Fund II are part of Invest Northern Ireland’s Access to Finance portfolio and part funded by European Regional Development Fund under the EU Investment for Growth and Jobs Programme 2014-2020.

Brian Cummings from Clarendon Fund Managers, which manages Co-Fund II, added: “Neurovalens is a highly innovative company and it is testament to the interest the company’s technology has generated that they have been able to close this significant funding round. The business has scaled rapidly since launching in 2017 and we are excited that this investment will help Jason and his team to apply their technology to the treatment of additional health conditions and make a real difference.”

Jamie Andrews, Investor at Techstart Ventures said: “At Techstart Ventures we want to back really exciting early stage technology companies with expert founding teams. Over time some of these companies and teams can prove themselves to have true world class potential and persuade other more specialist funders to come alongside us. This financing round, led by IQ Capital, demonstrates Neurovalens are doing just that. We are again delighted to support the Neurovalens team as they enter an exciting new growth phase.”

AI and the reverse arc of digitalisation. #AI #ComtradeDigital

By Boris Cergol, Head of AI at Comtrade Digital Services

Over the past few years, digitalisation has been a buzzword for many companies, as they try to take advantage of new technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), cloud environments, and machine learning, to improve operations, centralise data, and enhance customer engagement. If you are interested in the last one, be sure to check out the best online machine learning courses around”.

However, in reality, this transition into the virtual or digital world isn’t without its challenges. One common problem for organisations is bridging the gap between the implementation of AI or data science and the delivery of a real business value.

In fact, when the data scientist role emerged, it was a sort of “unicorn” role because these individuals were expected to not only manage the technology infrastructure and build AI models, but also translate data into actionable predictions and communicate effectively with more business-minded colleagues. 

Mixed results in the beginning

Of course, some companies had more success than others in terms of the AI application. Typically, larger companies with the economies of scale have done better, as have technology companies and those working in ecommerce or finance where the use and value of AI is more straightforward.

Many small businesses, who decided to embrace such technologies, have probably been disappointed with what they got out of it, especially considering the amount of hype surrounding it. 

Boris Cergol, Head of AI, Comtrade Digital Services

Therefore, the question became: how can AI have a bigger impact in the real world, spreading beyond the confines of the digital, to provide greater value to a wider circle of businesses and people?

Key enablers of AI

There are a number of enablers that are having an impact on the success rate of AI, the first of which is computing power. To date, it has already enabled a Deep Learning revolution and, since 2012, computing power has increased 300,000 times. Taking the ImageNet dataset as an example, the time needed to train a network to perform image classification has gone from 10 hours in 2017 to 88 seconds in 2019! 

As well as having more compute available and this process being more cost-effective, the efficiency of algorithms is also increasing exponentially. Again, compared to a model in 2012, computing the same task today with the newer algorithms takes 44 times less compute.

Data is another strong enabler of AI and significant progress is being made in relation to overcoming the issue of data labelling within Deep Learning – because there’s so much data and not that much of it labelled, supervised models have been unable to make use of it, resulting in the need for data labellers. However, self-supervised models are addressing this as they are now able, in circumstances where there is a large amount of data and one data point is removed, to guess what has been removed based on the remaining data. 

Auto Machine Learning (Auto ML) methods are also on the rise, helping to automate classic data science research and acting as a strong driver in terms of a real-world AI application. In fact, in some circumstances, end users are already directly interacting with Auto ML models. The delivery of ML on the edge devices is another exciting area of development which supports AI implementation: for example, WeWalk′s canes for visually impaired people, designed to give users more independence.

Ethical considerations will inevitably arise

Ethics can often be an obstacle to AI ad ML implementation. What happens with all the data? If different users are accessing the same model, what is the impact on privacy? Does the payoff of using AI for health purposes justify the use of data? How can we combat AI being intentionally used for deception? And so on…

Take Generative Adversarial Networks (GAN) as an example. These networks can generate images that are representative of training set data and then a second network tries to determine if the image is from the set or fake. By competing against each other, in the end, the generator learns how to create images that look like they were from the training set. While it has the potential to be used in retail and cosmetics to digitally show consumers what an outfit or makeup product might look like on them – a sort of virtual “try-on” experience – it could also be used in advertising to deceive the audience. Another instance is using digital avatars or deep fakes to build a fake persona on social networks. 

For the most part though, AI is being used for the right reasons and is generating some impressive results. One area in particular is natural language processing, which has led to the next generation of chatbots that are much more receptive and customer-friendly than before. 

So, what comes next?

In the future, there’s a strong possibility that each of us could have a digital companion which would have a large amount of data on us, but use it to watch over us and be the ultimate example of a supportive AI (which, to date, includes creations such as the shoe that monitors sports performance).

There are also signs that we aren’t far away from unsupervised reinforcement learning or imitation within robotics. In the not-too-distant future, there is potential for robots to learn like children do – by witnessing their behaviours, playing around with them and, accordingly, adapting how they act. 

Undoubtedly, there’s a great deal of research and development needed in the area of the real-world application of AI, but progress is certainly being made and models are being put to good use in a range of industries, including healthcare. 

As the well-known researcher Jürgen Schmidhuber recently said: “Although the real world is much more complex than virtual worlds, and less forgiving, the coming wave of real world AI or simple real AI will be much bigger than the previous AI wave, because it will affect all of production, and thus a much bigger part of the economy”.

Sony. Wireless Handy TV Speaker SRS-LSR200 is a fitting solution to fully enjoy TV audio even when away from the TV #Sony #Tv #Tech

Sony has announced the launch of a wireless handy TV speaker, the SRS-LSR200 in Europe, available to purchase from July in the United Kingdom, Germany, Austria and Switzerland and from September in the rest of Sony’s European markets.

With SRS-LSR200 you can take the sound of the TV with you to virtually anywhere in the house*1. With three integrated speakers that deliver clear, crisp and natural sound, and innovative Voice Zoom technology that makes dialogue clearer and easier to hear, you’ll not miss a moment with the Wireless Handy TV Speaker. The device takes the sound from the TV and plays it back to you in crystal clear clarity, so whether the TV is difficult to hear, or you want to enjoy watching TV with your family or friends without needing to turn the TV volume up to a high level, the SRS-LSR200 will help you hear better the action and dialogue on screen.

The new handy speaker from Sony is sturdy and portable. It has a convenient handle to carry it around the house so that you can enjoy crystal-clear sound in your place of choice. For extra comfort, it has an integrated remote control, allowing easy changing of channels and inputs, and works with major TV brands. SRS-LSR200 is also drip-proof, so if you plan on cooking and watching your favourite show, you don’t have to worry about damaging the speaker by splashing water on it.

Main features

 

Voice speaker that clearly reproduces a person’s voice

SRS-LSR200 has a dedicated centre voice speaker positioned between the left and right stereo speakers. It mainly outputs the sound frequencies of the voice and suppresses the influence from the left and right speakers

which minimizes distortion and allows the reproduction of a crisp and clear voice.

 

“Voice Zoom” function to reproduce a person’s voice clearly

SRS-LSR200 is equipped with a “Voice Zoom” function that detects the components of the human voice and makes it stand out. In addition to the normal stereo playback mode, it offers “Voice Zoom 1”, which brings voice to the front, and “Voice Zoom 2”, which emphasises high frequencies. You can switch between the modes easily using a designated button.

 

Passive radiators, realistically reproducing the lower register of the voice, mounted on the left and right sides of the device

By outputting the lower register of the voice from the left and right speakers and passive radiators, the voice sounds naturally and realistically.

Easy-to-use integrated TV remote control

SRS-LSR200 comes with an integrated remote to control the TV from a distance. In addition, Sony’s new handy speaker features a big volume dial and easy-to-read buttons and is drip-proof.

Easy charging

You can charge the speaker conveniently by simply placing it on the charging dock. A 3-hour charge allows a continuous use of the speaker for about 13 hours*4.

Intuitive and easy-to-understand set-up

Both the charging dock and the connecting cables are labelled with colour-coded numbers making the set-up truly effortless even if you’re not great with electronic equipment.

Stable wireless connectivity

The transmitter and speaker units are connected by 2.4 GHz wireless transmission one-to-one, for a low latency connection with high resistance to interference. Hear sound from the TV and the speaker simultaneously for a natural listening experience.

 

Pricing and availability

Sony’s wireless handy TV speaker SRS-LSR200 will go on sale in the UK and Ireland from July priced at £159 and €189.

How to Start Trading Cryptocurrency Online.

Even though the digital landscape as we currently know it is only a few decades old, the world of digital currency that is based on it is constantly changing. This is especially clear with the recent influx of popular cryptocurrencies that have debuted on the market, much to the delight of investors operating at different levels of expertise. Trading cryptocurrency online offers a unique set of advantages to those seeking their investment’s growth, thus explaining its increasing popularity. If you are interested in understanding more about how to trade cryptocurrency online, then the following primer should be of assistance.

Research

To begin exploring the vagaries of this particular market, you need to become more familiar with the different order types. While apps offered by broker services might help, you still need to understand the lingo and get the difference between what a limit order or market order is. If you trade on an exchange, you should also be well acquainted with the idea of slippage since, if done improperly, you run the risk of losing quite a bit of money.

Finally, remember that crypto markets lack the traditional liquidity in the same sense we apply it to other investments, so you will need to be careful when placing big orders on the market.

Tech Savvy

We should get this out of the way: trading cryptocurrency requires a degree of fluency with technology that is not for the faint of heart. So, if you are not familiar enough with technical know-how, then make sure to brush up on it now since it will take time. However, if you are excited about the prospect and already identify as something of a computer nerd, then the rest should be easy for you.

Managing Technology Risk

Much of the technology used to support the trading of cryptocurrency is new and thus retains a great deal of risk. If you live in Australia, for instance, and are interested to find out more, then research is necessary. Experts will tell you that you should first search for the best crypto exchange Australia based platform that will protect your online investment. There are still a few unknowns when trading at such a large scale, and both brokers and the software can be reactive in a shaky market. So, be mindful when securing the assistance of a broker and technological tool when trying to trade cryptocurrencies, and only seek out those that are vetted and have a track record of reliability.

The Blockchain

Cryptocurrencies are based on blockchain technology. However, there are major differences between quite a few. Some notes to consider when deciding on how to trade is the transaction processing speed, the supply currently available, and, perhaps most importantly, if there is a use for this currency in the real world, which will secure its value.

Not to put too fine a point on it, but make sure that the backers have a good reputation, and that the software or the currency itself is viable and makes sense.

While it is all based on fairly new technology, it engenders a great deal of hope. There are many benefits, provided that you do the proper research first, and look only at the reputable and verified avenues before settling in on the trading strategy.

 

Learn How to Improve Your Apple Watch Security. #AppleWatch #Security

In case you have an iPhone and still do not wear an Apple Watch, then it is almost true this gadget is at the top of your wish list. First released back in 2015, Apple Watch evolved from a gadget that deeply relied on pairing with your iPhone to an intelligent and autonomous IoT device.

The latest version of Apple Watch is widely used to stay informed of social messages, pay for goods, manage a smart home, track your workout, monitor your health, and do plenty of other awesome things. It delivers really a seamless user experience. 

At the same, it stores a lot of your private data. It is in your best interest to safeguard it from evil eyes. Your text messages, your credit card details for Apple Pay, and your emails are just a few examples of what needs to be protected.

Although most people do know that they need to protect this sensitive data, the overall awareness of the watchOS built-in security mechanisms is not as high. 

This post will bridge the gap by providing you important tips to be sure your personal data stays safe even in a worst-case scenario.

Passcode Lock

Setting up a passcode is the most effective way to avoid unauthorized access to your device and its data.

If you do not implement this mechanism from the start, you may do it at any later point:

  1. Open the Apple Watch app on your paired smartphone
  2. Go to My Watch
  3. Press Passcode

Your passcode must be at least four digits long. You can also set a much more secure variant by entering up to 10 digits.

This process can also be done on the Apple Watch:

  1. Click Settings
  2. Tap Passcode
  3. Click Turn Passcode On
  4. Enter your code

It is important that the Apple Watch passcode does not match the passcode set on your iPhone. This way you will steer away from a single point of failure.

You are not obliged to enter the passcode every time you unlock the Watch (as opposed to the Passcode Lock feature on iPhones.) Your watch comes with a Wrist Detection function that automatically locks it once you take it off. The device will ask for the passcode when you put it on or restart the gadget.

To make things even easier, there is also the Unlock with iPhone feature. It is available from the Watch app on your iPhone. Once this feature is enabled, the watch will unlock whenever you unlock the smartphone.

Data Self-Destruction

To give your security an extra boost, you may set the number of unsuccessful unlock attempts after which personal data gets deleted from the device. By default, there is a one-minute delay after incorrect passcodes are entered six times in a row.

Although setting the device to erase all data may be like a scorched-earth tactic, it can really save you if an evil-minded person puts his on your device. 

On the other hand, this could be a serious problem. You may forget the passcode and quickly exceed the limit of wrong login attempts. Only having a backup to restore your data can save you in this scenario. It is recommended to use the Erase Data function only after weighing up all the pros and cons.

Activation Lock

Sometimes Apple Watches get stolen, sometimes people simply misplace it. Any security mechanism enabled beforehand is really a cold comfort as you may never see your digital pal again. However, you can always prevent your data from being obtained by third parties. Activation Lock does the trick. It makes the smartwatch completely useless for anybody who finds or steals it. Please mind it requires watchOS 2 or above.

Once enabled, Activation Lock just “bricks” the device. No malefactor will be able to unpair it from your iPhone or pair it with his phone or deactivate the geolocation function (unless he knows your Apple ID and password.)

In case the Find My feature is enabled, Activation Lock turns on automatically. Just check it one more time to be sure it is up and running:

  1. Open the Watch app on your iPhone
  2. Go to My Watch
  3. Tap the “i” icon
  4. In case Find My is listed there – it means the feature enabled

The good side of this function is that it does not require an Internet connection.

Lost Mode

As mentioned above, the Find My iPhone option has got your Apple Watch covered so that you can find your lost device. It is strange now, but the first generation of Apple Watch did not have the GPS module. So, its whereabouts could not be determined this way.

Starting with Apple Watch Series 2, the gadget was equipped with the GPS module but still relied on its paired iPhone to be found.

Beginning with Series 3, Apple Watch boasts LTE connectivity and so users can benefit from Find My feature to locate it based on signals from nearby cell towers. You do not even need to use the iPhone to find the Apple Watch. This option is available on iCloud.com.

Find My option provides another feature called Lost Mode. It permits to specify a short message to be displayed on the screen of the Apple Watch. In case some kind people find it, they may read your email address or phone number and contact you. Lost Mode is also good as it blocks Apple Pay on your smartwatch.

Screen Notifications

With so much of our data being collected by online services these days, and so many phishing attacks, privacy becomes our top priority. Many of you may want to hide personal messages and notifications from curious friends or snoops. Thankfully, Notification Privacy is one more remarkable feature available on watchOS. To turn it on:

  • Go to the Watch app on your iPhone
  • Click My Watch
  • Go to Notifications
  • Slide the Notification Privacy toggle to the right

From now on, the Apple Watch will still let you know there is a new message, but no actual details will be shown on the screen. To see the actual message, just tap the alert.

Conclusion

Not only does Apple Watch help you be well-organized and stay connected at all times, but it also goes with quite a few security features that protect your personal data and privacy from various attacks targeting Apple devices. Although some people fail to apply these simple security mechanisms, it is never too late to do it and enjoy both security and convenience.

David Balaban is a computer security researcher with over 17 years of experience in malware analysis and antivirus software evaluation. David runs Privacy-PC.com and MacSecurity.net projects that present expert opinions on contemporary information security matters, including social engineering, malware, penetration testing, threat intelligence, online privacy, and white hat hacking. David has a strong malware troubleshooting background, with the recent focus on ransomware countermeasures. https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-balaban/

Audi is number one in terms of patents for electric drives. #Audi #Motoring #VorsprungdurchTechnik

Technical Development – internally referred to at Audi as “TE” – is the place where the brand’s heart beats. It is the place where “Vorsprung durch Technik” becomes a reality. The engineers develop innovations from the initial idea to market level. The new “Audi TechFocus” online newsletter provides detailed insights behind the scenes of TE. The topic of the premier issue: patents. Or: this is how we document “Vorsprung durch Technik.”

In 1970 – exactly 50 years ago – the “Technical Development” department moved into the first new facilities on the northern periphery of Ingolstadt. The complex has continuously been expanded ever since. By now, nearly 10,000 technicians and engineers are engaged in research and development just at the Ingolstadt location. Together with the nearly 2,000 TE employees in Neckarsulm and the developers in Győr, Beijing and San José Chiapa they form the innovation laboratory of Audi– and very successfully so. The number of patent applications filed is one of the benchmarks for the brand’s strong innovative prowess.

How many patent applications does Audi file per year?

In 2019, there were more than 1,200 patent applications filed, more than three on each day of the year. The subject matter and focus of patents change in line with shifts in social awareness. In earlier years, the main emphasis was put on ideas and inventions from the areas of chassis, conventional engine technology and transmission. At the moment, digitalisation and electric mobility are at the top of the list. In total, the company currently holds some 13,000 patent families worldwide, which equates to approximately  23,000 individual patents and patent applications. For the complex procedures involved, Audi employs specialised patent attorneys. “We protect the ideas and inventions of our engineers and thus our ‘Vorsprung durch Technik,’” says Jama Askaryar, the patent attorney responsible for electric and hybrid drives.

AUDI AG is the leader in patent applications filed for electric drives in Germany

Whereas many competitors purchase electric drive technology, Audi develops it in-house in many areas. As the most innovative premium brand, Audi is the leader in patent applications filed for electric powertrains in Germany. The statistics prove this, too: According to an analysis of the German Patent and Trade Mark Office and the European Patent Office (EPO), in 2019, a total of 660 patents were filed with effectiveness just in Germany. These applications refer only to vehicles with electric powertrains. Compared to 2017, this corresponds to an increase of 42 percent. With 57 patent applications filed for the plug-in hybrids and the models of the all-electric Audi e-tron, Audi occupied the top spot. “This is ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ and shows the great innovative spirit of our developers,” says Roman Straßer, Head of Development, Power Electronics and Charging Systems. But not just the Patent Office documents Audi’s top ranking in the area of ideas and inventions. In 2020, the renowned Center of Automotive Management (CAM) recognises Audi as the winner in the area of alternative drives with the Automotive INNOVATIONS Award.

What are examples of patent applications?

Two Audi engineers have invented a new method of operating the electric machines of the Audi e-tron. Their function for predictive energisation of the e-machines via smart and innovative power electronics enhances driving dynamics. At the same time, it minimises electric power consumption by “anticipating” the desired driving commands and predictively initiating them.

Audi patents are also found in the field of fluid mechanics – the utilisation of the physical flow behaviour of fluids. For instance, to efficiently cool the rotor in an electric motor. Traditionally, the heat is dissipated from the outside. Audi does this additionally via a coolant fluid and smart cooling ducts directly in the rotor core, from the inside. The complex technological feat of assembling the individual rotor sheets results in particularly effective rotor cooling.

Another example of e-mobility ingenuity at Audi is a patent on a solution enabling the absorption of hectic accelerator pedal actuations, which makes it possible to avoid load alterations from acceleration to deceleration mode. This is achieved by complex filtering of driving behaviour, which considers and optimises all parameters from the driver’s wish to the current torque distribution on the two axles and on all four wheels. Similar technology is now being adapted to the newer models of high-end kids electric cars.

Technology highlights from Audi’s history

The fast-running permanent quattro all-wheel drive has been and will remain a shining beacon of “Vorsprung durch Technik.” With the all-wheel drive technology unveiled in the original quattro at the 1980 Geneva Motor Show following a three-year development period, Audi revolutionised not only the automotive industry but motorsport, too.

A large number of other Audi innovations and patents have decisively shaped the automobile as well. For instance, the Audi Space Frame (short: ASF) unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show IAA in 1993, on which aluminum replaced the previously used steel as the material for the unibody in the Audi A8. To this day, this lightweight engineering know-how has seen consistent further development. The current Audi A8 in its structural components even combines a material mix of four different lightweight materials: aluminium, steel, magnesium and carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) – for a new level of multi-material design.