AllYouCanTech

Man Receives 10-Year Sentence for Defrauding 400 U.S. Homebuyers of $20 Million in Retirement Savings

# US Homebuyers Targeted in $20 Million Phishing Scheme

In an unfortunate twist of fate, numerous US homebuyers have become victims of an elaborate phishing scheme, losing substantial amounts of their savings, including down payments for their homes. Rather than rejoicing in the acquisition of their dream properties, these purchasers are now facing financial devastation. The scheme, masterminded by a ring of cybercriminals, focused on real estate transactions, leading to over $20 million being swindled.

## The Phishing Scheme Exposed

The US Department of Justice recently announced the sentencing of Babatunde Francis Ayeni, a 33-year-old Nigerian individual residing in the United Kingdom, to 10 years in prison due to his involvement in the scheme. Ayeni and his accomplices carried out a business email compromise (BEC) operation that targeted real estate transactions across the US. The group sent deceptive emails to title companies, real estate professionals, and lawyers, deceiving them into disclosing confidential login details.

After breaching the email accounts of these professionals, the hackers kept a close watch on ongoing deals. When a buyer was ready to make a payment, the hackers intervened, sending fake wiring instructions to redirect the funds to their own accounts. To further conceal their activities, the stolen money was swiftly converted into Bitcoin through services like Coinbase.

### The Toll on Victims

The scam wreaked havoc, impacting over 400 prospective homebuyers. Some individuals lost their entire life savings, including down payments intended for their new residences. The emotional burden was significant, with victims expressing feelings of humiliation, hopelessness, and despondency. One individual, who lost over $114,000, had been attempting to buy a home for his aging father, who had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s.

More than half of the victims were unable to recover the fraudulent wire transfers, leaving them with minimal options. The fraudulent scheme was discovered after a real estate title firm in Gulf Shores, Alabama, was targeted, leading to an investigation by the FBI and other law enforcement entities.

### An Escalating Menace

Regrettably, such instances of cybercrime are on the rise in the US. According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Report, losses from online fraud surged by 22 percent from 2022 to 2023, with criminals stealing over $12.5 billion from Americans in the last year alone. Business email compromise scams, similar to the one executed by Ayeni and his partners, accounted for nearly $3 billion of that figure.

The FBI has been encouraging victims of these scams to come forward, stressing that cybercriminals will face consequences. Paul Brown, a special agent in charge of the FBI’s Mobile Division, shared his approval of Ayeni’s sentencing, stating, “After hearing our citizens discuss how the loss of funds affected their lives and the subsequent loss of what they believed were down payments for their future homes, I am glad to see Ayeni receive a significant sentence for these crimes.”

### Global Ramifications

Though Ayeni has been convicted, two of his co-defendants, Feyisayo Ogunsanwo and Yusuf Lasisi, remain at large and are suspected to be outside the United States. The international aspect of the scam underscores the global reach of cybercrime and the challenges faced by law enforcement in apprehending criminals across different regions.

### Safeguarding Against Real Estate Scams

As real estate dealings increasingly shift online, homebuyers and industry professionals must stay alert to prevent falling victim to similar scams. Here are some strategies to protect yourself:

1. **Confirm Wiring Instructions**: Always confirm wiring instructions by contacting the title firm or real estate agent directly using a verified phone number. Avoid relying solely on email for such crucial information.

2. **Utilize Secure Communication**: Refrain from transmitting sensitive information, such as banking details, via email. Instead, opt for secure communication channels or encrypted email services.

3. **Stay Alert for Phishing Emails**: Be cautious of unexpected emails requesting login information or containing dubious attachments or links. Always verify the sender’s email address and look for signs of phishing, like typos or odd requests.

4. **Activate Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)**: Whenever feasible, enable two-factor authentication for your email and financial accounts for added protection.

5. **Closely Monitor Transactions**: Keep a vigilant eye on your real estate transactions and promptly report any suspicious activities to your bank and law enforcement.

### Final Thoughts

The phishing scheme aimed at US homebuyers serves as a glaring reminder of the threats posed by cybercriminals in the current digital landscape. While Ayeni’s sentencing provides some measure of justice for the victims, the emotional and financial impact on those affected is profound. As online fraud continues to grow, it is vital for both individuals and businesses to remain alert and take preemptive actions to safeguard themselves against falling victim to such schemes.

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Russia Unveils Grasshopper Rocket Project Development

# Russia’s Reusable Rocket Initiative: A Decade Behind SpaceX

Throughout the history of the global space race, Russia has consistently been a formidable force, tracing back to the Soviet Union’s historic launch of Sputnik in 1957. Yet, over the past several years, the nation has notably lagged in one of the most crucial aspects of contemporary space exploration: the development of reusable rockets. As of 2023, Russia is nearly 15 years behind SpaceX, the American private space firm that has transformed the industry with its reusable Falcon 9 rocket.

## The Emergence of Reusability in Space Exploration

For many years, space agencies across the globe depended on expendable rockets—ones that were used once and then discarded after each mission. Although this method proved effective, it was also expensive and inefficient. The concept of reusable rockets—those capable of being launched, recovered, and reused—was often deemed economically impractical. As recently as 2016, high-ranking Russian officials supported this view. A representative from Roscosmos, the state space corporation of Russia, remarked, “The economic viability of reusable launch systems isn’t evident.”

Nevertheless, SpaceX shifted the paradigm. In 2017, the company successfully relaunched a Falcon 9 rocket, demonstrating that reusability was indeed feasible and could significantly lower the costs associated with space missions. This breakthrough compelled space agencies worldwide to reassess their positions on reusable rockets, including Roscosmos.

## Russia’s Initiative: The Amur Rocket

In 2020, Roscosmos introduced plans for the “Amur” rocket, a reusable launch vehicle aimed at competing with SpaceX’s Falcon 9. The Amur rocket was designed to incorporate a reusable first stage, engines powered by methane, and a vertical landing system akin to SpaceX’s design. Initially, the rocket’s debut was scheduled for 2026. However, the project has faced numerous delays, pushing the first launch to now be anticipated no sooner than 2030.

The Amur rocket signifies Russia’s effort to stay competitive in the reusable rocket sector, yet the timeline indicates that the nation is still considerably behind. SpaceX embarked on its reusable rocket journey in 2011 and had already achieved successful landings of Falcon 9 boosters by 2015. By the projected launch of the Amur rocket, SpaceX will have amassed nearly 20 years of hands-on experience with reusable rockets.

## The “Grasshopper” Test Prototype

In a fresh development, Roscosmos has outlined intentions to construct a prototype vehicle aimed at assessing the Amur rocket’s capabilities for vertical landings. A report from the state-controlled news outlet TASS states that the assembly of this test vehicle, named “Grasshopper,” will commence in 2024. The designation “Grasshopper” directly references SpaceX’s earlier test vehicle of the same name, which played a key role in advancing the Falcon 9’s landing technology.

The Russian Grasshopper will act as a testing ground to address vital challenges related to vertical landings. However, the fact that Russia is only starting to develop such a test vehicle now emphasizes the extent of the nation’s lag in reusable rocket advancements. SpaceX’s Grasshopper began its flights in 2012, over a decade ago, and was pivotal to the company’s later success with the Falcon 9.

## Lagging Behind: A Global Context

Russia is not the sole nation grappling with the pace of progress relative to SpaceX. Other significant space agencies, including those in Europe and Japan, have also been slow to embrace reusable rocket technology. The European Space Agency (ESA) initiated funding for a “hopper” program in 2020, yet a low-altitude trial flight of the Themis project is not anticipated until 2025. Japan and other space-faring countries have yet to make considerable advancements in this domain.

However, certain rivals are making headway. Multiple Chinese enterprises are vigorously pursuing the development of reusable rockets, with some expected to achieve landing of the first stage of an orbital rocket in the coming years. In the United States, Blue Origin, established by Amazon’s Jeff Bezos, has successfully recovered its suborbital New Shepard rocket on several occasions. The company is also gearing up to launch its much larger, orbital New Glenn rocket, which aims to land its first stage on a drone ship, similarly to SpaceX’s Falcon 9.

## The Path Forward for Russia

While Russia’s reusable rocket initiatives are progressing, it is evident that the nation faces a considerable journey to catch up with SpaceX and other emerging competitors. The setbacks in the Amur rocket’s development and the belated initiation of the Grasshopper test vehicle highlight the obstacles that Roscosmos must overcome to reclaim its status as a leader in the international space landscape.

Nonetheless, Russia’s space program still possesses notable capabilities and continues to be an important player in global space exploration. The advancements of the Amur rocket and the Grasshopper test vehicle could ultimately enable Russia to narrow the disparity with SpaceX, but this will require time, investment,

The Unintentional Catalyst: How a Tenacious Computer Scientist Ignited the Deep Learning Revolution

# The Unlikely Tale of ImageNet: How Fei-Fei Li’s Vision Transformed AI

In the autumn of 2008, neural networks were deemed a cul-de-sac in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI). After their initial promise in the late 1980s and early 1990s, advancement had stalled, prompting many researchers to pivot to other machine learning methodologies like support vector machines. Nevertheless, within a computer science facility at Princeton University, a team led by Professor Fei-Fei Li was quietly engaged in a project that would ultimately alter the course of AI forever. Instead of enhancing neural networks, they were constructing something that appeared far more ordinary—a vast image dataset.

This dataset would eventually be known as **ImageNet**, comprising 14 million images classified into nearly 22,000 unique categories. At the time, the concept seemed implausible. Numerous experts questioned the utility of such a large dataset, especially in light of the limitations of prevailing machine learning algorithms. Yet, Fei-Fei Li’s tenacity and foresight would ultimately validate their skepticism, instigating a revolution in AI that persists today.

## The Genesis of ImageNet

Fei-Fei Li’s venture commenced in 2007 when she assumed the role of a computer science professor at Princeton University. She had previously contributed to a smaller dataset called **Caltech 101**, which contained 9,000 images across 101 categories. Her work with Caltech 101 illuminated the fact that larger and more varied datasets resulted in superior performance for computer vision algorithms. Motivated by this insight, Li envisioned something vastly more ambitious—a dataset that could encapsulate the extensive diversity of objects in the real world.

Li’s aspiration was fueled by an estimate from vision scientist Irving Biederman, who proposed that the average individual could recognize approximately 30,000 distinct objects. Li contemplated whether it would be feasible to develop a dataset that could reflect this level of human recognition. She resolved to create a collection of images sufficiently expansive to train machine learning models to identify nearly every object a person might confront in everyday life.

To realize this goal, Li referred to **WordNet**, an expansive lexical database that organized words into categories. Utilizing WordNet as a reference, she chose 22,000 categories of objects, spanning from “ambulance” to “zucchini.” However, constructing such an extensive dataset was no trivial task. Li initially intended to leverage Google’s image search to locate candidate images and then recruit Princeton undergraduates to verify and label them. Yet, even with optimizations, the endeavor would have required over 18 years to finalize.

The turning point arrived when Li discovered **Amazon Mechanical Turk (AMT)**, a crowdsourcing platform enabling her to engage workers globally for image labeling. This significantly expedited the dataset creation, shrinking the project timeline to just two years. By 2009, ImageNet was complete, comprising 14 million labeled images.

## Doubts and Initial Hurdles

Despite the colossal effort invested in developing ImageNet, the initiative initially garnered scant attention. When Li showcased ImageNet at the **Conference on Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition (CVPR)** in 2009, it was consigned to a poster session—a relatively obscure format. Many researchers expressed skepticism regarding the notion that machine learning algorithms could gain from such an extensive dataset. At that time, the majority of AI research concentrated on utilizing small datasets and mathematically refined models like support vector machines.

Li’s team chose to spark interest by transforming ImageNet into a competitive event. In 2010, they introduced the **ImageNet Large Scale Visual Recognition Challenge (ILSVRC)**, which challenged participants to construct models capable of classifying images from a subset of the ImageNet dataset. The inaugural competition drew 11 teams, yet the results were disappointing. The triumphing model, utilizing support vector machines, demonstrated only marginal improvement over prior methods. The second year proved even more disheartening, with fewer participants and only minimal advancements in performance.

By 2011, Li started to contemplate whether ImageNet was overly ambitious. The machine learning algorithms of the time appeared ill-equipped to manage such a large and intricate dataset. However, everything shifted in 2012.

## The AlexNet Breakthrough

In 2012, a team from the University of Toronto, led by **Geoffrey Hinton** and his graduate students **Alex Krizhevsky** and **Ilya Sutskever**, entered the ImageNet competition with a model founded on a deep neural network. Their model, identified as **AlexNet**, attained a top-5 accuracy of 85%, an impressive 10 percentage points higher than the previous year’s victor. This marked a breakthrough that astonished the AI community.

The success of AlexNet was attributed to two crucial factors: the availability of the extensive ImageNet dataset and

Marvel Unveils Trailer for “Captain America: Brave New World”

# Marvel Studios Reveals Fresh Trailers for *Captain America: Brave New World* and *Thunderbolts*

Marvel Studios is broadening its cinematic universe with exhilarating new releases, treating fans to an electrifying weekend during the inaugural Brazil D23 fan event. The studio unveiled a full-length trailer for *Captain America: Brave New World*, showcasing Anthony Mackie’s debut as the new Captain America. In addition, a sneak peek at the forthcoming *Thunderbolts* film was shared, hinting at what lies ahead for the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

## *Captain America: Brave New World* – A Fresh Chapter for the Shield

*Captain America: Brave New World* marks the fifth installment in the MCU’s Phase Five and is helmed by Julius Onah, recognized for *The Cloverfield Paradox*. This film takes cues from the 2021 Disney+ series *The Falcon and the Winter Soldier* (F&WS) and the 2008 movie *The Incredible Hulk*. The storyline follows Sam Wilson, portrayed by Anthony Mackie, as he steps into the role of Captain America following the events of *F&WS*.

The official synopsis indicates that Sam becomes embroiled in an international crisis after meeting the newly elected US President, Thaddeus Ross, played by Harrison Ford in his MCU debut. Sam must unravel the truth behind a worldwide conspiracy before its architect throws the globe into upheaval.

The film features a host of returning characters from previous MCU entries, such as Liv Tyler as Betty Ross and Tim Blake Nelson as Samuel Sterns, both reprising their parts from *The Incredible Hulk*. Carl Lumbley returns as Isaiah Bradley, a veteran of the Korean War who underwent the Super Soldier Serum and faced years of experimentation. His complicated ties to the Captain America legacy enrich the storyline.

New faces in the cast include Rosa Salazar as Rachel Leighton, Danny Ramirez as Joaquin Torres, and Shira Haas as Ruth Bat-Seraph. Giancarlo Esposito also joins as Sidewinder, a comic book villain skilled in teleportation who leads the Serpent Society.

### The Rise of the Red Hulk

The initial teaser for *Brave New World* was released in July 2024, generating excitement over the appearance of Red Hulk, Thaddeus Ross’s alter ego. An exclusive excerpt displayed at San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) highlighted a White House gathering where Ross showcases a cache of adamantium, a precious and rare material unearthed after a “celestial mass” appeared in the Indian Ocean.

The new trailer kicks off with Sam visiting Isaiah Bradley in prison, where Isaiah cautions him to tread carefully as he delves into a terrorist event involving five shooters. The footage suggests a more intricate conspiracy, with Sam receiving an enigmatic phone call inquiring, “Do you ever ponder who’s controlling whom?” The trailer culminates in an intense confrontation between Sam and Ross, who has fully morphed into Red Hulk.

*Captain America: Brave New World* is slated for release on February 14, 2025, and is poised to be a crucial episode in the MCU’s Phase Five.

## *Thunderbolts* – A Coalition of Antiheroes

Marvel’s *Thunderbolts* is another eagerly awaited film in Phase Five, set to premiere on May 2, 2025. Directed by Jake Schreier, the movie assembles a band of antiheroes and outcasts, many of whom were first seen in *Black Widow* (2021) and *The Falcon and the Winter Soldier*.

The ensemble features Wyatt Russell as US Agent (John Walker), Julia Louis-Dreyfus as Contessa Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, Florence Pugh as Yelena Belova, Sebastian Stan as Bucky Barnes (Winter Soldier), David Harbour as Alexei Shostakov (Red Guardian), Hannah John-Kamen as Ava Starr (Ghost), Olga Kurylenko as Antonia Dreykov (Taskmaster), and Lewis Pullman as Bob (The Sentry).

The *Thunderbolts* represent a grimmer, more morally gray iteration of the Avengers, enlisted by Valentina for her own agenda. The film delves into the interactions of this unconventional group as they confront their personal struggles while embarking on perilous missions.

### A Teaser of *Thunderbolts*

An expanded teaser for *Thunderbolts* was presented at SDCC 2024, showcasing a comedic and action-filled reunion between Yelena and Alexei. Both characters are grappling with their own challenges but are quickly recruited by Valentina to assemble her new band of antiheroes.

The latest trailer, unveiled at the Brazil D23 event, depicts the team in action. In one segment, Yelena takes aim at a military convoy while Bucky Barnes navigates the debris on a motorcycle. Alexei, ever the admirer, can’t resist expressing his admiration for Bucky.

Review: A Thorough Examination of the Captivating Charm of “Agatha All Along”

# **Agatha All Along: A Fantastic Comeback for the MCU**

The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has experienced its share of highs and lows in the realm of streaming television. Yet, one remarkable hit was 2021’s *WandaVision*, a series that fused superhero drama with sitcom nostalgia, offering a refreshing and inventive experience. Now, its spinoff sequel, *Agatha All Along*, reintroduces that same quirky creativity, reminding us of the MCU’s potential for bold storytelling.

**(Spoilers ahead for *WandaVision*, *Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness*, and *Agatha All Along*.)**

## **Returning to Agatha Harkness**

In *WandaVision*, Kathryn Hahn’s depiction of Agnes, the inquisitive neighbor, quickly became a fan favorite. The significant revelation that Agnes was actually Agatha Harkness, a witch with centuries of history, stood out as one of the show’s unforgettable moments. Agatha’s catchy jingle, “Agatha All Along,” turned into a cultural sensation, securing her place among the MCU’s roster of iconic characters.

At the conclusion of *WandaVision*, Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen) left Agatha confined in her Agnes identity, dooming her to a life as an ordinary suburbanite. However, following Wanda’s presumed demise in *Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness*, viewers were left wondering: what happened to Agatha?

*Agatha All Along* continues the story, unveiling that the hex Wanda cast on Agatha still lingers, though it’s somewhat unstable. The show launches in a *Mare of Easttown*-inspired setting, with Agatha/Agnes stepping into the shoes of a tough, socially-awkward detective probing a mysterious death in the woods surrounding Westview. This whimsical premise is merely the start of an exhilarating, genre-defying adventure.

## **Traveling Down the Witches’ Path**

The narrative truly begins when a young teenager (played by Joe Locke) breaks the hex and enlists Agatha’s assistance to uncover the fabled Witches’ Road. This legendary path is rumored to fulfill witches’ most profound wishes, but only after they endure a set of trials. Naturally, Agatha aims to regain her abilities, while the teen’s intentions remain vague, obscured by a sigil that conceals his true self.

To navigate the Witches’ Road, Agatha must gather a coven. The diverse group consists of Lilia (Patti LuPone), a divination witch; Jennifer (Sasheer Zamata), a potions witch; Alice (Ali Ahn), a protection witch; and Sharon Davis (Debra Jo Rupp, reprising her *WandaVision* role), who acts as a green witch thanks to her gardening abilities. Together, they perform a spell in the form of a ballad—”Down the Witches’ Road”—a catchy melody that recurs throughout the series and has already inspired countless fan renditions.

As the coven ventures forth, they contend with not only the perils of the Witches’ Road but also Agatha’s vengeful former lover, Rio Vidal (Aubrey Plaza), a formidable green witch, along with the Salem Seven, the spirits of Agatha’s original coven she eliminated centuries earlier by siphoning their powers.

## **A Tribute to Witchy Pop Culture**

One of the most enjoyable elements of *WandaVision* was its tribute to various television eras. *Agatha All Along* adopts a similar concept, although this time, each challenge on the Witches’ Road references iconic witches from pop culture. One challenge evokes the New England charm of *Practical Magic* (1998), while another captures the free-spirited essence of Stevie Nicks during her “white witch” era, with nods to *Season of the Witch* (1972). There are also allusions to *The Wizard of Oz*, *Maleficent*, and *Snow White*’s Evil Queen.

The seventh episode, “Death’s Hand in Mine,” stands out by blending elements of tarot readings with lethal outcomes. Lilia’s trial involves maneuvering through a tarot reading where each incorrect card triggers one of many swords hanging above. Patti LuPone’s portrayal of Lilia, a witch living out her life out of chronological order, shines as a highlight, adding emotional richness to the series.

## **A Twist-Packed Conclusion**

As the coven advances, they lose some members on their journey. Sharon Davis is the first to go, quickly supplanted by Rio, while Alice meets her demise during a ouija board trial. Lilia ultimately sacrifices herself to conquer the Salem Seven, bringing her character’s journey to a poignant conclusion.

The most significant plot twist emerges when it’s unveiled that Rio/Death primarily seeks the teenager, who is none other

Escaped Research Monkeys Persist in Roaming Unhindered Days Following Lab Escape, Officials Indicate

**Free-Roaming Monkeys in South Carolina: Fun-Loving Primates Relishing Liberty**

If you’re seeking a bit of enjoyable motivation for relaxing this weekend, consider taking inspiration from a troop of playful monkeys in South Carolina. Recently, 43 young female rhesus macaques made their escape from a research facility in Yemassee, SC, and as of Friday, they were still reveling in their newfound liberty, cheerfully exploring the facility’s perimeter.

### The Grand Escape

The escape took place on Wednesday when a caretaker at the Alpha Genesis Primate Research Facility neglected to properly latch the doors, enabling the monkeys to break free. Despite their liberation, the monkeys have remained near the facility, seemingly happy to frolic around the perimeter fence. The Yemassee Police Department reported that the primates are demonstrating “calm and playful behavior,” indicating they are not stressed or upset by their escape.

In a Facebook update, the police reassured the community that the monkeys do not pose any health risks. The young rhesus macaques weigh only about 6 or 7 pounds each and have not participated in any testing. They are free of diseases, and there is no imminent danger to the public. However, locals have been advised to secure their doors and windows, in case the inquisitive monkeys opt to venture beyond the facility’s boundaries.

### A Joyful Expedition

Staff members at Alpha Genesis have been monitoring the escapees closely, attempting to coax them back with food. Yet, the monkeys appear to be enjoying themselves too much to return just yet. Greg Westergaard, CEO of Alpha Genesis, mentioned that the monkeys have been “jumping back and forth, playing with each other” and even calling to those still inside the facility. Westergaard compared the scenario to a “playground situation,” with the primates fully enjoying their brief experience of freedom.

### History of Escapes

This is not the first instance of Alpha Genesis facing difficulties in containing its monkeys. The facility has a record of monkey escapes. Between 2014 and 2016, there were four incidents in which a total of 30 monkeys got free, one of which was never recovered. Consequently, the U.S. Department of Agriculture fined Alpha Genesis $12,600 in 2018 for violations related to these escapes.

Despite these past occurrences, the current situation seems to be managed well. The monkeys are remaining close to the facility, and the staff is working hard to coax them back inside. For the moment, the spirited primates are simply relishing their freedom, much to the delight of the local residents.

### No Threat to Public Health

It’s crucial to emphasize that the monkeys present no risk to human health. According to the Yemassee Police Department, the rhesus macaques are healthy, disease-free, and have had no involvement in any testing. While spotting monkeys playing near a research facility might be peculiar, there is no reason for panic.

### Final Thoughts

As the weekend draws near, the lighthearted behaviors of the escaped rhesus macaques remind us that sometimes, it’s essential to let go and have a bit of fun. Although the monkeys will eventually be returned to the Alpha Genesis facility, for now, they are living their best lives, indulging in the simple joys of freedom and play. And who can blame them?

In the meantime, residents of Yemassee can feel assured knowing that the monkeys present no threat to their health or safety. With the staff closely monitoring the situation and working to bring the monkeys back, it’s just a matter of time before the playful primates return to their home. Until then, they serve as a delightful reminder of the happiness that can result from a little unexpected freedom.

“New Subscription Tier Aimed at SMBs Might Not Halt Continuing VMware Migrations”

# Broadcom Acquisition: A “Wake-Up Call” for SMBs Dependent on VMware

The purchase of VMware by Broadcom has reverberated across the IT sector, especially among small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) that are significantly reliant on VMware’s virtualization technologies. The modifications Broadcom has enacted post-acquisition have compelled numerous SMBs to rethink their IT approaches, with some even assessing alternatives to VMware. The launch of a new subscription level, VMware vSphere Enterprise Plus, intends to alleviate some concerns, but it might be inadequate for certain customers.

## The Transition from Perpetual Licenses to Subscriptions

A major adjustment that Broadcom made after acquiring VMware was the cessation of perpetual licenses. Consequently, the company moved VMware’s products to a subscription-based model. This decision has encountered pushback, particularly from SMBs that appreciated the flexibility and long-term savings associated with perpetual licenses.

Alongside the transition to subscriptions, Broadcom also streamlined VMware’s offerings into a reduced number of SKUs (Stock Keeping Units), leading to increased expenses for many customers. This bundling approach compelled some businesses to finance features and products that they did not require, adding to their frustrations.

### Effect on SMBs

For SMBs, which generally operate under stricter IT budgets compared to larger corporations, these alterations have posed considerable challenges. Many SMBs perceived that they were being coerced into acquiring more extensive and costly packages than necessary. As a result, some organizations began looking into alternative virtualization solutions or even contemplating leaving virtualization behind entirely.

Rick Vanover, Vice President of Product Strategy at Veeam, underscored this problem, stating, “The challenge with the majority of VMware by Broadcom changes thus far is that it has compelled many entities to adopt a significantly higher offering with more components than they had intended to implement.”

## The Launch of vSphere Enterprise Plus

In response to the escalating discontent, Broadcom unveiled a new subscription tier, VMware vSphere Enterprise Plus, on October 31. This tier aims to provide increased flexibility to customers who require only VMware’s essential virtualization functionalities without the extra features that come with higher-tier packages.

The new vSphere Enterprise Plus tier exists between the vSphere Standard and VMware Cloud Foundation tiers, offering SMBs an option that better matches their requirements. Prashanth Shenoy, Vice President of Product Marketing in the VMware Cloud Foundation division at Broadcom, clarified the reasoning behind the new tier: “For customers focused on compute virtualization, we will now present two options, VMware vSphere Enterprise Plus and VMware vSphere Standard.”

This initiative is perceived as a constructive advancement for SMBs that were previously obligated to purchase more than what they needed. Vanover commented, “This new option will resonate with many customers where they currently are—and in my view, prompt them to rethink any migration possibilities.”

## SMBs Seeking Alternatives

In spite of the introduction of the vSphere Enterprise Plus tier, numerous SMBs are still contemplating alternatives to VMware. Broadcom’s changes have urged businesses to reassess their reliance on a single vendor and consider broader IT ecosystems. Some are exploring rival virtualization solutions, like Microsoft Hyper-V, while others are thinking about abandoning virtualization entirely.

Tony Harvey, a Senior Director Analyst at Gartner, noted that Broadcom’s changes have ignited a wider movement of revirtualization and devirtualization. “Many clients view this as a wake-up call regarding their dependency on a single vendor and are seeking more diversity in their on-premises environments,” Harvey remarked.

## The Importance of Pricing

Ultimately, the viability of the vSphere Enterprise Plus subscription tier will hinge on its pricing. SMBs are recognized for their cost sensitivity, and any significant price hike could lead them to pursue other avenues. Vanover stressed this aspect, stating, “

“Claude AI to Manage Sensitive Government Information in New Collaboration with Palantir”

# Anthropic’s Defense Collaboration: Is It Undermining Its Ethical AI Principles?

Anthropic, a firm that has historically taken pride in its principled approach to artificial intelligence (AI), is encountering scrutiny following its announcement of a collaboration with Palantir and Amazon Web Services (AWS) to integrate its Claude AI models into U.S. intelligence and defense sectors. This arrangement, which entails embedding Claude into Palantir’s defense-accredited platform, has ignited worries about whether Anthropic is sacrificing its ethical commitments in exchange for profitable defense agreements.

## The Collaboration: Claude AI in Defense Applications

Anthropic’s Claude AI models, akin to OpenAI’s ChatGPT, will be deployed within Palantir’s platform, hosted by AWS, to manage and interpret data for U.S. intelligence and defense initiatives. This collaboration permits Claude to function in Palantir’s Impact Level 6 (IL6) environment, a secure system that processes data essential to national security, classified up to the “secret” level.

The organizations have delineated several primary functions for Claude in defense contexts, including:

1. **Managing extensive amounts of intricate data rapidly**
2. **Detecting patterns and trends in that data**
3. **Facilitating document examination and preparation**

While the alliance is poised to improve intelligence analysis, the companies have reiterated that human officials will maintain decision-making power. Nonetheless, critics are apprehensive that this collaboration marks a significant departure for Anthropic, which has established its reputation based on AI safety and ethical standards.

## Ethical Dilemmas and Public Outcry

Anthropic has promoted itself as a firm dedicated to the responsible advancement of AI. Since its inception in 2021, it has set itself apart from rivals by implementing voluntary ethical guidelines, including its “Constitutional AI” framework designed to steer AI behavior according to a defined set of ethical precepts.

However, the partnership with Palantir and AWS has sparked doubts about whether Anthropic is remaining faithful to its ethical objectives. Critics contend that collaborating with defense and intelligence entities contradicts the company’s publicly stated mission as a proponent of AI safety.

Former Google co-head of AI ethics, Timnit Gebru, voiced her worries on social media, sarcastically questioning Anthropic’s dedication to mitigating “existential risks to humanity.” Similarly, AI analyst Nabeel S. Qureshi pointed out the contradiction faced by Anthropic’s founders, formerly champions of AI safety, now engaging in agreements to deploy AI systems for military purposes.

### The Palantir Link

Compounding the issue is Anthropic’s association with Palantir, a firm that has faced backlash for its engagements with government entities, especially in surveillance and military AI contexts. Palantir recently secured a $480 million agreement with the U.S. Army to develop the Maven Smart System, an AI-driven target identification framework. Project Maven, aimed at employing AI for military applications, has created considerable debate within the technology realm, with many expressing ethical concerns regarding AI’s role in warfare.

Anthropic’s link to Palantir has prompted some to question whether the company is forsaking its ethical standards in pursuit of profit. As noted by Futurism’s Victor Tangermann, this partnership “establishes the AI industry’s expanding connections with the U.S. military-industrial complex,” a trend that warrants concern given the inherent risks and vulnerabilities associated with AI technology.

## Balancing Morality and Commerce

In spite of the criticism, Anthropic has sought to mitigate apprehensions by specifying particular regulations and restrictions regarding governmental utilization of its AI models. According to the company’s terms of service, Claude may be used for responsibilities such as foreign intelligence evaluation and recognizing covert influence campaigns, but it is explicitly prohibited from applications in disinformation, weapon development, censorship, or domestic surveillance.

Nonetheless, even with these protective measures in place, the partnership raises critical queries regarding AI’s function in defense and intelligence operations. While Claude may not directly engage in targeting individuals or creating weapons, the risks of misuse linger. Furthermore, like all large language models (LLMs), Claude has a propensity to “confabulate,” or produce erroneous information, which could lead to serious ramifications in high-stakes governmental operations.

## The Wider Movement: AI and Military Engagement

Anthropic’s partnership with Palantir exemplifies a broader trend of AI firms pursuing defense contracts. Meta, for instance, has made its Llama models accessible to defense collaborators, while OpenAI has sought closer relationships with the U.S. Department of Defense. As AI technology progresses, its possible uses in national security are broadening, prompting heightened interest from government entities.

However, this evolving connection between AI companies and the defense arena has generated concerns about the ethical ramifications of deploying AI in warfare and surveillance. Critics argue that the push to incorporate AI into defense operations could yield unforeseen consequences, particularly in light of the current limitations of AI technology.

## Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for Anthropic

“Matter 1.4 Unveils Exciting Innovations for Tomorrow’s Smart Homes—Yet, Will It Secure Industry Backing?”

# Is It Possible to Control One Speaker via Alexa, Google, and Apple’s Home Platforms Simultaneously?

In the constantly advancing realm of smart home technology, users frequently encounter the challenge of poor interoperability among various ecosystems. For years, individuals have had to pick from Amazon Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit when configuring their smart devices. But what if you could manage a single device, such as a smart speaker, on all three platforms without extensive effort? Introducing **Matter**, a groundbreaking smart home standard that aims to turn this possibility into a reality.

## What Exactly is Matter?

Matter is a consolidated smart home standard created by the **Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA)**. It was developed to deliver a seamless and interoperable smart home experience, with the intention of eliminating barriers between ecosystems like Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit. The vision with Matter is that you purchase a device, set it up once, and operate it across various platforms without the hassle of compatibility concerns.

### The Benefits of Matter 1.4

The newest iteration of the Matter protocol, **Matter 1.4**, introduces substantial enhancements to the smart home environment. One of its most notable features is **”Enhanced Multi-Admin”**, which enables devices to be managed by multiple platforms at the same time. In principle, this means you could configure a smart speaker with your iPhone via Apple Home, yet still control it using Google Home or Alexa without needing to reconfigure the setup.

This represents a significant leap forward in realizing Matter’s initial commitment to cross-platform compatibility. Previously, users faced burdensome procedures, such as generating “secondary codes” to integrate a device among various ecosystems. With Matter 1.4, this process should be much more user-friendly.

### Fabric Sync: The Secret to Multi-Platform Unity

An essential component of Matter 1.4 is **”Fabric Sync”**, which acts as the system that permits devices to be shared across different ecosystems. In the vocabulary of Matter, a “fabric” denotes a smart home system, such as Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit. Fabric Sync guarantees that once a device is incorporated into one fabric, it can be easily recognized and interacted with by other fabrics without needing a new setup.

For instance, if you add a smart light bulb to your Apple Home app, it would still be recognizable and controllable by Google Home or Alexa. This is especially beneficial in households where different individuals prefer different platforms. One person may use an iPhone and favor Apple Home, while another may rely on an Android phone and opt for Google Home. With Matter 1.4, both individuals can manage the same devices effortlessly.

However, it’s crucial to emphasize that **the effectiveness of Fabric Sync relies on the tech companies** themselves. While Matter 1.4 lays the groundwork for cross-platform compatibility, it is the responsibility of Amazon, Google, Apple, and other companies to incorporate it into their devices and applications. Currently, Amazon and Google have announced their intentions to implement Matter 1.4 updates for their devices soon, but Apple has yet to reveal its plans.

## Thread and Routers: Enhancing the Smart Home Network

Another noteworthy advancement with Matter 1.4 is the incorporation of **Thread** technology into more devices, especially home routers and access points. Thread is a low-power, mesh networking protocol specifically designed for smart home gadgets. It facilitates more efficient communication among devices, eliminating the reliance on a central hub.

With Matter 1.4, **Home Routers and Access Points (HRAP)** are now capable of supporting both Matter and Thread, effectively broadening the range and reliability of your smart home network. This marks a significant upgrade over the previous scenario where only select devices, like the HomePod Mini or Google Nest Hub, could function as Thread Border Routers.

By embedding Thread into routers and mesh networking systems, Matter 1.4 guarantees that your smart home devices can communicate more effectively, even in expansive homes where Wi-Fi coverage could be inconsistent. This also minimizes the necessity for multiple hubs or repeaters, simplifying the overall installation process.

## Energy Oversight and Vendor Dependency

Matter 1.4 also introduces new types of devices, including **solar panels, battery storage systems, heat pumps, and water heaters**. This is a pivotal advancement for anyone aiming to incorporate energy management into their smart home configuration. With Matter 1.4, these devices can be controlled and automated across various platforms, paving the way for enhanced energy efficiency and personalization.

For instance, you might configure your smart home to prioritize charging your electric vehicle (EV) during off-peak hours or to utilize stored solar energy to power your home during high-cost times. In the past, such automations were often constrained by specific platforms or apps, resulting in vendor dependency. With Matter 1.4, you should find it easier to manage

“Online Predator ‘Rabid’ Given 30-Year Sentence for Exploiting Minors on Discord”

# FBI Recognizes 764 Terror Network as a Critical Online Hazard to Youth

The FBI has recently designated the 764 terror network as a “tier one” threat, specifically aiming at children online. This concerning update follows the sentencing of a Michigan resident, Richard Densmore, to 30 years in prison due to his participation in the network. Densmore operated chat rooms and Discord servers, taking advantage of minors by pressuring them into self-harm, engaging in sexual activities, and even promoting suicide. His case highlights the increasing peril posed by violent online extremist factions like 764, which exploit susceptible youth via social media and gaming platforms.

## The Case of Richard Densmore

As per the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Densmore was a key player in the 764 network, infamously recognized for grooming young victims online. He pleaded guilty to charges involving child sexual exploitation, among various other crimes. Densmore’s misconduct encompassed blackmailing minors into recording acts of self-harm and violence, which he then utilized for further manipulation.

FBI Director Christopher Wray underscored the agency’s dedication to prosecuting such offenders, asserting, “If you exploit children online, you can’t conceal your actions behind a keyboard. The FBI will deploy all our assets and authority to arrest you and bring you to justice.”

### The 764 Network’s Methodology

The 764 network is far from being a mere assortment of online predators; it is a well-structured organization with a sinister agenda. Members of the network, including Densmore, strive for “fame” within their ranks by persuading victims to produce and disseminate media that illustrates self-mutilation, sexual behavior, harm to animals, and even random acts of violence. The network’s ultimate objective, according to the DOJ, is to “increase chaos” and undermine societal standards.

U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan, Mark Totten, characterized the 764 network as a “new and despicable threat” to children and communities. He called on parents to remain watchful, oversee their children’s online conduct, and foster open dialogues to thwart such abuses.

## Notoriety and Terror: The Motivation Fueling 764

Densmore, who operated online under the pseudonym “Rabid,” was deeply embedded in what are referred to as “Sewer” communities—shadowy sectors of the internet where violent and graphic content is commonplace. The FBI’s probe revealed that Densmore maintained a collection of child pornography and images of victims bearing “Rabid,” “Sewer,” and “764” etched into their flesh. In certain instances, razor blades and box cutters were discovered nearby, indicating the extent of coercion and violence involved.

Densmore’s conduct was not merely about exploitation; it was about seeking recognition within the 764 network. He would livestream encounters with victims, threatening to disseminate abusive images if they failed to acquiesce to his demands. In one particularly disturbing incident, he compelled a young girl to send a nude video with “Rabid” inscribed on her chest.

Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen described the 764 network as a terrorist entity that aims to “normalize and weaponize” the production and distribution of child sexual abuse materials. The group’s ultimate aspiration, Olsen remarked, is to “annihilate civil society” and “bring down the U.S. government.”

## The Responsibility of Parents and Caregivers

In response to the escalating threat posed by the 764 network and analogous groups, the FBI and DOJ are urging parents and caregivers to be more observant regarding their children’s online behavior. Changes in behavior, indicators of self-harm, or the receipt of suspicious packages—such as razor blades or other harmful items—are all potential warning signs.

Parents are encouraged to engage in candid discussions with their children about the risks posed by online predators and to monitor their social media interactions closely. The DOJ also advises parents to be vigilant for any indications that their children may be receiving unsolicited gifts or items from unknown individuals, as members of 764 have been known to send packages to their victims to facilitate the production of abusive content.

## Support Resources for Those in Distress

The DOJ and FBI have made it clear that they are committed to thwarting these offenses and bringing offenders to justice. However, they also emphasize the significance of timely intervention. If you or someone you know is in danger of self-harm or suicide, it is essential to seek help without delay.

The **Suicide Prevention Lifeline** is accessible 24/7 at **1-800-273-TALK (8255)**. This service connects individuals in crisis with local support centers offering assistance and resources.

## Conclusion

The 764 terror network symbolizes a new and alarming frontier in online exploitation, targeting vulnerable youth through social media and gaming outlets. The case of Richard Densmore underscores the lengths to which these factions will go to manipulate and harm their victims. As the FBI continues its initiatives