Good morning! Let’s play Connections, the NYT’s clever word game that challenges you to group answers in various categories. It can be tough, so read on if you need clues.
BLUE: CHURCH OF ENGLAND WEDDING VOW VERBS CHERISH, HAVE, HOLD, LOVE
PURPLE: MAGIC WORDS ABRACADABRA, PLEASE, PRESTO, THANK YOU
My rating: Moderate
My score: 1 hint
There’s no way that yellow today is the easiest one. Or if it is, it just points the way to this being a relatively tricky Connections to solve. The four AUDIO APPS here – AUDIBLE, PANDORA, SHAZAM and TIDAL – are all familiar to me, sure, but I’m a technology journalist and former music journalist. I sincerely doubt the average person will spot all four of these. It feels more like a blue group, or even purple.
To make matters worse, one of the words here – SHAZAM – could easily have gone with ABRACADABRA and PRESTO as part of MAGIC WORDS. Instead, the missing two were PLEASE and THANK YOU – which gave me a proper moment when I realized what the NYT had done here. Smart.
Yesterday’s NYT Connections answers (Sunday, 27 October, game #504)
YELLOW: SASSY CUTE, FRESH, SMART, WISE
GREEN: AMBIENCE AIR, FEELING, MOOD, QUALITY
BLUE: UNITS BAR, BEL, LUX, MOLE
PURPLE: THE LITTLE ___ MERMAID, PRINCE, RASCALS, TRAMP
What is NYT Connections?
NYT Connections is one of several increasingly popular word games made by the New York Times. It challenges you to find groups of four items that share something in common, and each group has a different difficulty level: green is easy, yellow a little harder, blue often quite tough and purple usually very difficult.
On the plus side, you don’t technically need to solve the final one, as you’ll be able to answer that one by a process of elimination. What’s more, you can make up to four mistakes, which gives you a little bit of breathing room.
It’s a little more involved than something like Wordle, however, and there are plenty of opportunities for the game to trip you up with tricks. For instance, watch out for homophones and other word games that could disguise the answers.
It’s playable for free via the NYT Games site on desktop or mobile.
It’s no secret that cyber-attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated, while simultaneously growing in number and volume. Research from the Business Continuity Institute reports that cyber threats have increased in severity over the past year, with 75% of respondents reporting a rise in attempted breaches and 39.4% falling victim to a successful cyber-attack.
And this worrying trend is only expected to rise. In fact, our own research shows that a staggering 70% of UK business leaders expect their organizations to be hit by a cyberattack within the next year.
But, despite these concerns for the near future, the same study shows that only 35% of those leaders believe they are adequately prepared to handle such an incident. Clearly, there is a significant disconnect between the perceived risk of cyber threats and the level of preparedness among the nation’s businesses.
So, as the digital threat landscape continues to evolve, UK businesses find themselves in an increasingly delicate position when it comes to cybersecurity. The growing number of incidents facing modern companies is well documented in today’s headlines, leaving organizations in no doubt that this is a serious issue that every business should have near the top of their agendas.
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In this landscape, how can companies become more confident in their ability to defend themselves against modern cyber threats?
Christian Reilly
CTO EMEA at connectivity cloud company, Cloudflare.
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Rising cyber threats: a reality for UK businesses
The gap between the anticipated risks of cyberattacks and the preparedness of businesses to address them speaks volumes about the current state of cybersecurity in the UK.
This discrepancy isn’t a question of ignorance but of confidence – or the lack thereof. With almost half (48%) of UK organizations reporting a cybersecurity incident in the past year according to our data, the threat is very real, and the same research reveals that the UK now holds the unfortunate title of being the most targeted country in Europe. And still, only one in three business leaders feel they have the necessary defenses in place. This points to a critical issue: while awareness is growing, true preparedness remains worryingly low.
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That’s despite the real-life ramifications that can be expected when a business suffers a breach.
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Not only could an incident have serious consequences for the business itself, but it could also have a negative impact on your employees and customers. Whether it’s financial losses, regulatory penalties or reputational damage, the stakes are high when it comes to having a lack of robust defense mechanisms. For example, in September 2023, MGM Resorts International suffered a devastating ransomware attack that cost the company an estimated $100 million – equivalent to roughly £76 million. A cyber-attack is a devastating blow to any company – but there are lessons to be learned when an incident like this makes the headlines.
Learning from experience
What stands out from the Cloudflare data is that sectors with higher attack frequencies, such as IT and technology, report feeling more prepared for future incidents. This is logical – experience breeds resilience. This confidence also likely stems from the sectors’ early adoption of advanced cybersecurity tools and practices, equipping them to handle the evolving threat landscape.
SolarWinds is a great example of a business that took significant steps to overhaul its security practices after a breach – and come out stronger. The company enhanced its software development process with its Secure by Design principle, adopted a Zero Trust architecture, and increased transparency by openly communicating with customers and regulators. SolarWinds also collaborated with cybersecurity experts to continuously improve their defences, while contributing to industry-wide efforts to bolster software supply chain security. These actions helped the company recover, educate the wider sector and become more resilient against future cyber threats.
But while the IT and tech sectors are more prepared for such an incident, others are lagging behind. Industries like education and healthcare, which have faced fewer attacks in the last 12 months, display a shocking level of complacency. With our data showing that only 19% and 18% of these sectors feeling prepared for an attack, one has to wonder: are they playing a dangerous waiting game?
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Just because businesses have been lucky enough to avoid an attack so far, it doesn’t make them immune in the future. And the industries that have yet to face a cyberattack are worryingly underprepared. A report from Microsoft and Goldsmiths, University of London has found that just 13% of UK businesses are resilient to cyberattacks, with 48% deemed vulnerable and the remaining 39% facing high risk. Given the sensitive nature of the data handled in industries like healthcare, a significant cyberattack could have devastating consequences. And as cyber threats become more sophisticated and frequent, hope is not a strategy.
Cybersecurity as a catalyst for business modernization
Despite the challenges posed by the growing threat of cyberattacks, there is a positive shift in how business leaders are approaching cybersecurity. Our research shows that over two-fifths (44%) see it as a driving force for modernization and the same amount consider it a key to getting boards to invest in essential projects.
According to a report by Aviva, attitudes towards cyber security are shifting, with more businesses recognizing the importance of robust defenses against potential threats. The company’s data shows that worries over cyber-attacks have risen from 40% to 57% since 2020.
This evolving perspective is encouraging, as it suggests organizations are recognizing the strategic value of strong cybersecurity measures. It highlights a recognition that robust defenses can offer more than just protection – driving innovation, streamlining operations and enhancing overall efficiency, as well as offering opportunities for operational improvements and data protection. This forward-thinking approach turns cybersecurity from a defensive necessity into a strategic advantage.
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By embedding cybersecurity into top-level decision-making rather than treating it as an afterthought, businesses are positioning themselves to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
The need for proactive cybersecurity measures
In an era where digital risks are evolving rapidly, businesses must invest not just in advanced technologies but in fostering a culture where cybersecurity is treated as a strategic priority. Simplified, consolidated solutions are key, but without the right mindset and a commitment to continuous improvement across the whole organization, they will fall short.
Every company, regardless of its industry, must recognize the evolving threat landscape and take proactive steps to mitigate the risks. It’s time for every business to acknowledge that preparedness is more than just a checklist; it’s a mission-critical element of modern business strategy. Instead of being a reactive measure dusted off after a breach occurs, cybersecurity should be considered a proactive, central part of every organisation’s future-proofing plan. UK businesses are waking up to the reality of cyber threats – now they must ensure they are ready to face them head-on.
This article was produced as part of TechRadarPro’s Expert Insights channel where we feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today. The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/news/submit-your-story-to-techradar-pro
As part of its initiative to improve transparency in using Artificial Intelligence tools, Google Photos will soon highlight whether its AI tools were used while editing an image. According to Google, the new feature will be rolled out in the Photos app from next week.
In a recent blog, Google said with the increasing use of AI for photo editing, especially with the use of its editing tools like magic editor and magic eraser in the Photos app, it will highlight the use of AI tools as part of its steps to improve transparency. If AI tools have been used to edit an image, it will be shown along with the file name, the tech giant said.
“As we bring these tools (Magic editor and magic eraser) to more people, we recognize the importance of doing so responsibly with our AI Principles as guidance. To further improve transparency, we’re making it easier to see when AI edits have been used in Google Photos. Starting next week, Google Photos will note when a photo has been edited with Google AI right in the Photos app,” John Fisher, the engineering director of Google Photos said in a blog.
Google noted that already photos edited with its tools like magic editor, magic eraser and zoom enhance include metadata based on technical standards from The International Press Telecommunications Council (IPTC) to indicate that they’ve been edited using generative AI. “Now we’re taking it a step further, making this information visible alongside information like the file name, location and backup status in the Photos app,” he said.
As fire hazards continue to pose a significant risk across diverse industries, the role of fire watch services is substantially transforming. Once an essential compliance requirement, fire watch services now integrate advanced technology with specialized expertise to enhance safety and preparedness. Leading companies like Fast Fire Watch Guards are shaping this shift, utilizing innovative tools and skilled teams to meet today’s rigorous safety standards. In a landscape where rapid response and proactive risk management are crucial, these trends redefine fire safety practices and elevate industry expectations.
Leveraging technology for enhanced fire watch services
Integrating technology in fire watch services has transformed how professionals monitor and prevent potential hazards. Many fire watch companies now utilize GPS tracking and geo-fencing, allowing for precise guard movement tracking and area coverage. This ensures a complete, real-time log of all activities, a critical feature in locations requiring continuous monitoring. Additional layers of safety are provided by remote sensors, thermal imaging, and AI-powered surveillance systems that can identify temperature changes or early fire indicators and sound alerts before security personnel get on the scene. In addition to improving overall safety, this proactive approach to fire prevention shows how technology is changing the business. Firewatch companies are increasingly adopting these innovations to stay ahead of potential dangers, ultimately providing clients with a higher standard of security.
Expertise in action – the role of skilled fire watch guards
Effective fire protection still relies heavily on the knowledge of fire watch guards, even though technology plays a vital role. After completing extensive training, fire watch guards are prepared to manage a variety of situations, from managing building sites to protecting important public gatherings. This expertise ensures that guards can quickly assess and respond to potential fire hazards, preventing incidents before they escalate. Companies like Fast Fire Watch Guards emphasize the importance of continuous training keeping their teams updated on the latest safety protocols and fire watch standards. Combining hands-on expertise with technology enables guards to operate confidently, providing clients a co mprehensive service beyond essential monitoring. Skilled fire watch guards are proficient in fire prevention and possess the interpersonal skills needed to manage situations calmly and efficiently.
Rapid response and nationwide coverage
One of the primary challenges in fire watch services is ensuring rapid deployment across diverse locations. Businesses in high-risk industries require reliable fire watch services on short notice, and nationwide companies have responded by establishing fast-response protocols. Companies like Fast Fire Watch Guards can dispatch teams within hours, a crucial capability in urgent situations where immediate fire watch coverage is mandatory. Rapid response times not only mitigate risks but also demonstrate the agility and preparedness of fire watch service providers. This nationwide reach means that businesses can access dependable fire watch services regardless of location, contributing to a safer environment across multiple sectors. The assurance of rapid, expert deployment elevates the value and reliability of fire watch companies.
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Ensuring compliance with safety regulations
Compliance with fire safety regulations is a primary driver behind the demand for professional fire watch services. Regulatory bodies impose strict safety standards on construction sites, commercial buildings, and event spaces to prevent fire-related incidents. A professional Fire Watch Services Company ensures businesses meet all fire safety requirements, avoiding potentially significant fines and reputational damage. In addition to supplying guards, fire watch firms also provide advice on upholding safety procedures, carrying out risk analyses, and being ready for inspections. Businesses may guarantee ongoing compliance and take advantage of the company’s proficiency in managing intricate fire safety standards by collaborating with seasoned fire watch services.
This compliance-focused approach makes fire watch services essential to operational safety for various industries.
The future of fire watch services and safety standards
As fire watch services evolve, the future holds promising advancements that will further improve safety standards. Incorporating AI in risk prediction, more sophisticated monitoring tools, and enhancement in guard training are expected to redefine the industry. Firewatch companies are at the forefront of these changes, adapting to new technologies and refining their practices to serve their clients better. Fast Fire Watch Guards and similar companies are committed to staying informed and agile, ensuring that their services meet the rising demands of safety compliance. We can expect fire watch services to become even more efficient in the future, providing clients with unparalleled peace of mind. The shift towards a technology-driven, expert-based service model reshapes fire watch services as a crucial component of modern safety strategies.
The fire watch services sector is expanding quickly as businesses invest in qualified staff and embrace state-of-the-art technology to satisfy rising safety regulations. Businesses like Fast Fire Watch Guards, who offer a dependable and competent service that meets the specific requirements of different sectors, are prime examples of striking a balance between technology innovation and human competence. Businesses should anticipate increasingly stronger assistance in protecting their operations, guaranteeing compliance, and improving general safety as fire watch services develop. Fire watch services are in a strong position to become an essential part of nationwide risk management plans as a result of these new developments.
Traders work on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on October 22, 2024 in New York City.
Spencer Platt | Getty Images
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This report is from today’s CNBC Daily Open, our international markets newsletter. CNBC Daily Open brings investors up to speed on everything they need to know, no matter where they are. Like what you see? You can subscribe here.
Steepest drop since pandemic China’s industrial profits in September slumped 27.1% from a year ago, according to the country’s National Bureau of Statistics. That’s the steepest drop since the start of the pandemic in March 2020, based on data from Wind Information – which excludes statistics from most of 2022 when China was under strict zero-Covid policies.
Oil prices dropped on ‘limited damage’ Prices for both Brent and West Texas Intermediate oil futures dropped more than 4% on Monday. This comes after Iranian media described Israel’s strikes over the weekend on its military installations as causing “limited damage.” Citi lowered its forecast for Brent oil prices by $4 to $70 per barrel over the next three months.
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Japan’s ruling coalition loses parliamentary majority Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party and its Komeito partner will lose their parliamentary majority, according to projections from public broadcaster NHK and publication Nikkei Asia, while the opposition camp made significant gains. The Japanese yen fell against the U.S. dollar on the political uncertainty.
[PRO] Very, very busy week for markets This week is jam-packed with important earnings and economic data. Five of the Magnificent Seven companies report earnings. The personal consumption expenditures index report for September and the key jobs report for October will also be released this week.
The Nasdaq Composite managed to log a seventh consecutive winning week.
After adding 0.56% on Friday, the index closed at an all-time high, ending the week 0.2% higher.
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Other major U.S. indexes, however, didn’t do so well. Both the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average shattered their six-week positive streak following their falls on Friday.
The tech-heavy Nasdaq was boosted by Tesla’s monster rally. Investors also looked ahead to Big Tech earnings coming out this week: shares of Meta, Amazon and Microsoft added as much as 1%.
Earnings season has been a mixed bag so far. Even though almost three-quarters of S&P companies have beaten expectations, according to FactSet data, the rate of profit growth has not met expectations, disappointing investors.
As those companies were mostly from sectors outside tech, their losses dragged down the S&P and the Dow, especially, since a good proportion were constituents of the 30-stock index. In fact, around 90% of Dow members ended the week in the red.
For instance, Coca-Cola surpassed Wall Street’s estimates of its earnings and revenue, but its shares still fell. Investors were perhaps disappointed by news that consumers are buying fewer packs of Coke products, as CEO James Quincey said during the post-earnings conference call, and troubled by the headwinds that the company thinks will hamper its growth in 2025.
With five of the Magnificent Seven companies reporting earnings and crucial economic data coming out this week, investors will hope all the numbers line up for a payout – if not of the jackpot magnitude, then at least one that jolts the S&P and Dow back into the green again.
— CNBC’s Brian Evans, Pia Singh and Alex Harring contributed to this report.
In iOS 18.2, Apple is adding a new feature that resurrects some of the intent behind its halted CSAM scanning plans — this time, without breaking end-to-end encryption or providing government backdoors. Rolling out first in Australia, the company’s expansion of its Communication Safety feature uses on-device machine learning to detect and blur nude content, adding warnings and requiring confirmation before users can proceed. If the child is under 13, they can’t continue without entering the device’s Screen Time passcode.
If the device’s onboard machine learning detects nude content, the feature automatically blurs the photo or video, displays a warning that the content may be sensitive and offers ways to get help. The choices include leaving the conversation or group thread, blocking the person and accessing online safety resources.
The feature also displays a message that reassures the child that it’s okay not to view the content or leave the chat. There’s also an option to message a parent or guardian. If the child is 13 or older, they can still confirm they want to continue after receiving those warnings — with a repeat of the reminders that it’s okay to opt out and that further help is available. According toThe Guardian, it also includes an option to report the images and videos to Apple.
The feature analyzes photos and videos on iPhone and iPad in Messages, AirDrop, Contact Posters (in the Phone or Contacts app) and FaceTime video messages. In addition, it will scan “some third-party apps” if the child selects a photo or video to share with them.
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The supported apps vary slightly on other devices. On Mac, it scans messages and some third-party apps if users choose content to share through them. On the Apple Watch, it covers Messages, Contact Posters and FaceTime video messages. Finally, on Vision Pro, the feature scans Messages, AirDrop and some third-party apps (under the same conditions mentioned above).
The feature requires iOS 18, iPadOS 18, macOS Sequoia or visionOS 2.
The Guardian reports that Apple plans to expand it globally after the Australia trial. The company likely chose the land Down Under for a specific reason: The country is set to roll out new regulations that require Big Tech to police child abuse and terror content. As part of the new rules, Australia agreed to add the clause that it was only mandated “where technically feasible,” omitting a requirement to break end-to-end encryption and compromise security. Companies will need to comply by the end of the year.
User privacy and security were at the heart of the controversy over Apple’s infamous attempt to police CSAM. In 2021, it prepared to adopt a system that would scan for images of online sexual abuse, which would then be sent to human reviewers. (It came as something of a shock after Apple’s history of standing up to the FBI over its attempts to unlock an iPhone belonging to a terrorist.) Privacy and security experts argued that the feature would open a backdoor for authoritarian regimes to spy on their citizens in situations without any exploitative material. The following year, Apple abandoned the feature, leading (indirectly) to the more balanced child-safety feature announced today.
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Once it rolls out globally, you can activate the feature under Settings > Screen Time > Communication Safety, and toggle the option on. That section has been activated by default since iOS 17.
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