It’s time we kicked up our awareness of security issues 3 or 4 notches.
It’s Not Paranoia If They Really Are Out To Get You | Fortinet Blog
Wednesday, December 31, 2014
XBox and PSN attacks were just an advert for hackers' DDoS service
The attack which “stole Christmas” for millions of video games players by knocking offline the PlayStation Network (PSN) and Xbox Live appears to have been a publicity stunt, designed to gain notoriety and draw attention to the hacking group which has claimed responsibility – Lizard Squad.
The Lizard Squad gang has now launched a new service, LizardStresser, through which anyone can launch a distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attack against the website or internet service of their choice.
XBox and PSN attacks were just an advert for hackers' DDoS service
Tuesday, December 30, 2014
Accenture Survey Shows That Mobile Access to Human Services Can Benefit Recipients
From Accenture:
ARLINGTON, VA; Dec. 30, 2014 – Nearly half (46 percent) of the recipients of assistance from human services agencies surveyed by Accenture (NYSE: ACN) across the United States say they would likely download and use a mobile application for obtaining services. This finding suggests that significant benefits in time savings for both citizens and caseworkers may be achievable through the greater use of mobile applications. When survey respondents were asked if they would be interested in mobile access to such day-to-day activities as checking their benefits, applying for assistance or submitting questions to caseworkers, the number of those who said they would likely use a mobile app jumped to 64 percent.
According to the survey, the most common means of citizen interaction with social services agencies currently is via telephone (32 percent), followed by in-person office visits (23 percent). When they do make office visits, nearly half the respondents (49 percent) said they are able to get the answers they need in a reasonable amount of time, while 46 percent said they experience long wait times. Only 9 percent of respondents, on average, say they make use of websites for dealing with their human services-related activities.
“The benefits of convenience and time savings associated with mobile applications address the biggest pain points people associate with visiting human services offices,” said Debora Morris, managing director, Accenture Integrated Social Services. “Mobile applications also can provide potential benefits to agencies to reduce costs to serve citizens while freeing up caseworkers for higher value-added activities. We estimate that an average-sized U.S. state human services agency could save around $14 million annually by deploying mobile apps for citizens.”
Interestingly, the survey found that the likelihood of middle-aged respondents (35-49 years old) using human services mobile apps is on par with Millennials (18-34 years old). When presented with a variety of potential possibilities for handling specific human services-related activities, 78 percent of middle-aged respondents and 82 percent of Millennials said they would likely use mobile apps.
Learn more about the survey, Accenture and Delivering Public Service for the Future.
Methodology
Accenture surveyed 500 citizens receiving social services in the U.S. states of California, Georgia, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, and North Carolina and Ohio during mid-2014, via telephone interviews. The research was fielded by Penn Schoen Berland (PSB) to gauge interest in mobile applications by individuals currently receiving social services. The overall margin of error for the study is ±4.38 percentage points.
About Accenture
Accenture is a global management consulting, technology services and outsourcing company, with approximately 319,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries. Combining unparalleled experience, comprehensive capabilities across all industries and business functions, and extensive research on the world’s most successful companies, Accenture collaborates with clients to help them become high-performance businesses and governments. The company generated net revenues of US$30.0 billion for the fiscal year ended Aug. 31, 2014. Its home page is www.accenture.com.
December 30, 2014
Accenture Survey Shows That Mobile Access to Human Services Can Benefit Recipients
Mobile apps could save time for citizens and caseworkers, and reduce agencies’ cost to serve
Mobile apps could save time for citizens and caseworkers, and reduce agencies’ cost to serve
ARLINGTON, VA; Dec. 30, 2014 – Nearly half (46 percent) of the recipients of assistance from human services agencies surveyed by Accenture (NYSE: ACN) across the United States say they would likely download and use a mobile application for obtaining services. This finding suggests that significant benefits in time savings for both citizens and caseworkers may be achievable through the greater use of mobile applications. When survey respondents were asked if they would be interested in mobile access to such day-to-day activities as checking their benefits, applying for assistance or submitting questions to caseworkers, the number of those who said they would likely use a mobile app jumped to 64 percent.
According to the survey, the most common means of citizen interaction with social services agencies currently is via telephone (32 percent), followed by in-person office visits (23 percent). When they do make office visits, nearly half the respondents (49 percent) said they are able to get the answers they need in a reasonable amount of time, while 46 percent said they experience long wait times. Only 9 percent of respondents, on average, say they make use of websites for dealing with their human services-related activities.
“The benefits of convenience and time savings associated with mobile applications address the biggest pain points people associate with visiting human services offices,” said Debora Morris, managing director, Accenture Integrated Social Services. “Mobile applications also can provide potential benefits to agencies to reduce costs to serve citizens while freeing up caseworkers for higher value-added activities. We estimate that an average-sized U.S. state human services agency could save around $14 million annually by deploying mobile apps for citizens.”
Interestingly, the survey found that the likelihood of middle-aged respondents (35-49 years old) using human services mobile apps is on par with Millennials (18-34 years old). When presented with a variety of potential possibilities for handling specific human services-related activities, 78 percent of middle-aged respondents and 82 percent of Millennials said they would likely use mobile apps.
Learn more about the survey, Accenture and Delivering Public Service for the Future.
Methodology
Accenture surveyed 500 citizens receiving social services in the U.S. states of California, Georgia, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, and North Carolina and Ohio during mid-2014, via telephone interviews. The research was fielded by Penn Schoen Berland (PSB) to gauge interest in mobile applications by individuals currently receiving social services. The overall margin of error for the study is ±4.38 percentage points.
About Accenture
Accenture is a global management consulting, technology services and outsourcing company, with approximately 319,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries. Combining unparalleled experience, comprehensive capabilities across all industries and business functions, and extensive research on the world’s most successful companies, Accenture collaborates with clients to help them become high-performance businesses and governments. The company generated net revenues of US$30.0 billion for the fiscal year ended Aug. 31, 2014. Its home page is www.accenture.com.
# # #
BovControl is a Cow-Tracking App for Farmers
Brazil has 200 million cattle. That means there are actually more cows than humans. And because of that, the country is the world’s largest exporter of beef.
Clearly, beef is a huge industry in Brazil. But with so many cows, how are ranchers and food producers supposed to keep track of them? Well, there’s now an app called BovControl that aims to help farmers, food companies and even consumers track and gather information about cattle.
BovControl is a Cow-Tracking App for Farmers
Sony attack forced employees to use phone tree - Dec. 30, 2014
The cyberattack on Sony was so bad, employees there were forced to resort to an ancient technology -- the BlackBerry.
Executives also used the tried-and-true tactic for relaying messages: a phone tree.
Sony attack forced employees to use phone tree - Dec. 30, 2014
What Caused the Declining Popularity of Daily Deals Online?
There was a time when group buying virtually snatched the popularity away from all other e-commerce models. But that day is long gone. Today, group buying is anything but sought after.
The falling popularity of group buying as an e-commerce model both saddens and surprises me and I never stop wondering what actually went wrong.
What Caused the Declining Popularity of Daily Deals Online?
How to Choose the Right ERP Software for Your Business
QuickBooks is renowned the world over as an outstanding small business accounting package. It’s no wonder that QuickBooks is the #1 best-selling small business financial software, recommended by three out of four accountants. Even so, no matter how capable a software package QuickBooks may be, it’s primarily aimed at small businesses and at some point, you’re going to outgrow the software and exchange it for a full-fledged ERP system. So what should you look for? What factors should you consider?
How to Choose the Right ERP Software for Your Business
How to Choose the Right ERP Software for Your Business
AVT-PR-Avnet Electronics Marketing Americas Celebrates 30-Year Anniversary with Micron Technology
PHOENIX – 1985 was a pivotal year for the memory market in the Americas. Seven of the nation's leading semiconductor makers exited the DRAM business due to a drastic decline in prices for memory, leaving just a handful of competitors, including the relatively young Micron Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ: MU). That same year, the stalwart Micron signed a distribution agreement with Avnet Electronics Marketing Americas, a business region of Avnet, Inc. (NYSE: AVT). Today, Avnet and Micron, a leading provider of advanced memory solutions, are celebrating the 30th anniversary of that agreement.
AVT-PR-Avnet Electronics Marketing Americas Celebrates 30-Year Anniversary with Micron Technology
AVT-PR-Avnet Electronics Marketing Americas Celebrates 30-Year Anniversary with Micron Technology
The Great Firewall of China is nearly complete - Dec. 30, 2014
Beijing has added yet another brick to its Great Firewall, tightening access to Google's email service in the latest phase of a censorship campaign that has left Chinese citizens unable to access huge swaths of the Internet.
Other Google (GOOG) products, including Search, Sites and Picasa, have been similarly targeted by Chinese government agencies that govern Internet and social media content.
The Great Firewall of China is nearly complete - Dec. 30, 2014
NetSuite Demonstrates How its Unified Cloud Platform Drives Omnichannel Commerce Success for Retailers at NRF 2015
Industry Leader to Spotlight How NetSuite SuiteCommerce Helps Retailers Build Engaging Customer Experiences Across Multiple Channels at Booth 4209
NetSuite Demonstrates How its Unified Cloud Platform Drives Omnichannel Commerce Success for Retailers at NRF 2015
NetSuite Demonstrates How its Unified Cloud Platform Drives Omnichannel Commerce Success for Retailers at NRF 2015
Facebook privacy - network faces court for 'reading user messages'
Facebook is to face a class action lawsuit over ‘reading’ its user’s messages, a U.S. judge has ruled.
CNBC reports that the social network is accused of violating user privacy by scanning messages for URL links – which then counted towards the number of times a link has been ‘shared’ by the site.
Facebook privacy - network faces court for 'reading user messages'
Monday, December 29, 2014
Accenture Awarded Five-year Contract to Continue Successful HealthCare.gov Work
From Accenture:
ARLINGTON, Va.; Dec. 29, 2014 – The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced that it has selected Accenture Federal Services for a five-year, $563 million contract to continue Accenture’s successful work on the Federally Facilitated Marketplace (FFM) in support of the overall Health Insurance Marketplace website HealthCare.gov.
“We appreciate CMS’ recognition of our hard work and solid results we delivered over the last year to improve HealthCare.gov. We see this new contract as a strong vote of confidence in Accenture’s ability to continue assisting CMS in building and maintaining the site that has allowed millions of Americans to gain access to healthcare insurance,” David Moskovitz, Chief Executive, Accenture Federal Services said.
“Accenture has been an essential member of our team as we focused on delivering a positive consumer experience through HealthCare.gov. We are pleased that Accenture will continue to support HealthCare.gov, as we work together to help millions of Americans sign up for quality, affordable health insurance,” said Marilyn Tavenner, Administrator, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
Accenture delivered technology solutions and systems to support this year’s enrollment, expand outreach to issuers and support the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP), including:
As the 2014 enrollment period closed successfully with Accenture’s support, work began to prepare for the 2015 enrollment. Accenture focused on simplifying the process for issuers to update plans, and implemented tools and processes to expedite the resolution of citizen inquiries. At the same time, Accenture worked with CMS to find new ways to streamline and improve the customer experience. CMS later expanded Accenture’s scope of work to include enhancements and additional functionality of the FFM, the SHOP and state-based exchange transitions. All of these efforts helped create a successful launch of the 2015 Open Enrollment season that continues through February 15, 2015.
“Our work in all of these areas will continue under the new contract, as we continuously enhance the capability supporting citizens, issuers and CMS – focused on simplifying and streamlining the customer experience,” said Matt Tait, the senior managing director who leads Accenture’s work on the project.
Accenture Federal Services is a U.S. company, with offices in Arlington, Va., and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Accenture LLP. Accenture’s federal business has served every cabinet-level department and 30 of the largest federal organizations with clients at defense, intelligence, public safety and civilian agencies.
Learn more about Accenture’s work with federal agencies and Delivering Public Service for the Future.
Accenture is a global management consulting, technology services and outsourcing company, with more than 319,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries. Combining unparalleled experience, comprehensive capabilities across all industries and business functions, and extensive research on the world’s most successful companies, Accenture collaborates with clients to help them become high-performance businesses and governments. The company generated net revenues of US$30.0 billion for the fiscal year ended Aug. 31, 2014. Its home page is www.accenture.com.
December 29, 2014
Accenture Awarded Five-year Contract to Continue Successful HealthCare.gov Work
ARLINGTON, Va.; Dec. 29, 2014 – The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced that it has selected Accenture Federal Services for a five-year, $563 million contract to continue Accenture’s successful work on the Federally Facilitated Marketplace (FFM) in support of the overall Health Insurance Marketplace website HealthCare.gov.
“We appreciate CMS’ recognition of our hard work and solid results we delivered over the last year to improve HealthCare.gov. We see this new contract as a strong vote of confidence in Accenture’s ability to continue assisting CMS in building and maintaining the site that has allowed millions of Americans to gain access to healthcare insurance,” David Moskovitz, Chief Executive, Accenture Federal Services said.
“Accenture has been an essential member of our team as we focused on delivering a positive consumer experience through HealthCare.gov. We are pleased that Accenture will continue to support HealthCare.gov, as we work together to help millions of Americans sign up for quality, affordable health insurance,” said Marilyn Tavenner, Administrator, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
Accenture delivered technology solutions and systems to support this year’s enrollment, expand outreach to issuers and support the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP), including:
- Completing all transition activities in an accelerated timeline
- Executing architecture changes to increase capacity
- Implementing usability improvements and re-enrollment capability to support the 2015 enrollment period
As the 2014 enrollment period closed successfully with Accenture’s support, work began to prepare for the 2015 enrollment. Accenture focused on simplifying the process for issuers to update plans, and implemented tools and processes to expedite the resolution of citizen inquiries. At the same time, Accenture worked with CMS to find new ways to streamline and improve the customer experience. CMS later expanded Accenture’s scope of work to include enhancements and additional functionality of the FFM, the SHOP and state-based exchange transitions. All of these efforts helped create a successful launch of the 2015 Open Enrollment season that continues through February 15, 2015.
“Our work in all of these areas will continue under the new contract, as we continuously enhance the capability supporting citizens, issuers and CMS – focused on simplifying and streamlining the customer experience,” said Matt Tait, the senior managing director who leads Accenture’s work on the project.
Accenture Federal Services is a U.S. company, with offices in Arlington, Va., and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Accenture LLP. Accenture’s federal business has served every cabinet-level department and 30 of the largest federal organizations with clients at defense, intelligence, public safety and civilian agencies.
Learn more about Accenture’s work with federal agencies and Delivering Public Service for the Future.
# # #
About AccentureAccenture is a global management consulting, technology services and outsourcing company, with more than 319,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries. Combining unparalleled experience, comprehensive capabilities across all industries and business functions, and extensive research on the world’s most successful companies, Accenture collaborates with clients to help them become high-performance businesses and governments. The company generated net revenues of US$30.0 billion for the fiscal year ended Aug. 31, 2014. Its home page is www.accenture.com.
Why E-commerce Businesses Still Want a Physical Presence
For years, businesses have been focusing on boosting their online presence to sell and market their products and services. But now, some businesses are starting to do the opposite, looking for a physical presence to boost their brand and support online sales. Saddleback Leather and Love 41 are two such companies.
Run by entrepreneurs Dave and Suzette Munson, both companies already have thriving e-commerce sites where they sell their goods. But they are now working on opening a 10,000 square foot retail location in Fort Worth, Texas.
Why E-commerce Businesses Still Want a Physical Presence
This Hobbit-inspired sword uncovers unsecured WiFi hotspots
Like many others, I was enchanted by The Hobbit (and later Lord of the Rings) at a young age – long before Peter Jackson turned J R R Tolkien’s middle-earth fantasy books into a series of blockbuster movies.
So you can just imagine my whoop of delight when I read that fellow nerds at Spark IO have taken some Hobbit-related merchandise and modified it to give it a security spin on things.
This Hobbit-inspired sword uncovers unsecured WiFi hotspots
Balance Engagement and Customer Service on Twitter
It’s no surprise that companies of all sizes flock to Twitter’s 271 million monthly active users to get closer to their customers. But while 30 percent of brands have a dedicated customer support handle, only 10 percent of brands address more than 70 percent of their mentions.
That’s a lot of opportunity left on the table.
Balance Engagement and Customer Service on Twitter
Crowdsourcing Meets Cutting Edge Security Research in FortiGuard Labs | Fortinet Blog
IDC is reporting again that Fortinet has the top market share in security appliances - This is great news for Fortinet researchers and customers alike.
Here at Fortinet, we’ve been talking a lot about handoffs recently. Handoffs of data between modules in next gen firewalls, handoffs from advanced threat protection/detection tools like sandboxes to traditional firewalls, handoffs of threat intelligence between applications; you get the idea. When the parts of a security ecosystem can communicate intelligently, it’s no surprise that threats are more likely to be stopped in their tracks before they ever reach their targets.
Crowdsourcing Meets Cutting Edge Security Research in FortiGuard Labs | Fortinet Blog
Smartphone maker you never heard of valued at $45 billion - Dec. 29, 2014
OK, we all know Samsung is the biggest smartphone maker in the world, and Apple is No. 2. But do you have any idea who the third largest is?
Lenovo? LG? Nokia? Sony (SNE)? No, no, no and no. It's a Chinese company called Xiaomi.
Smartphone maker you never heard of valued at $45 billion - Dec. 29, 2014
Biometrics - can your fingerprint be ‘copied’ from a normal photo?
Fingerprint biometrics are entering the mainstream as a security measure, with both Apple and Samsung relying on biometrics to secure their flagship phones – but they may not be as secure as many believe, according to a German researcher.
Ubergizmo reports that a speaker at Germany’s Chaos Computer Club, Jan Krissler, claims to have ‘copied’ the thumbprint of Germany’s Defense Minister from standard photos, in machine-readable form.
Biometrics - can your fingerprint be ‘copied’ from a normal photo?
Cicret Could Turn Your Skin Into a Smartphone Display
The Cicret Bracelet may turn out to be the latest evolution in a rapidly growing wearable market — if the device ever sees the light of day. And what’s most interesting about this new gadget in particular, is that you already own half of it.
Cicret is a bracelet that projects a fully-functioning Android tablet on your skin. That’s right: on your skin.
Cicret Could Turn Your Skin Into a Smartphone Display
7 Easy Ways To Boost Social Engagement Today
Social media doesn’t have to be the big, scary monster in the room that business owners are afraid to utilize. Just because you aren’t a big Yelp or Facebook fan in your personal life doesn’t mean that you should feel intimidated when it comes to taking advantage of these online platforms for your business.
By utilizing the knowledge and messaging you already have, taking advantage of the available free (and affordable) options out there, and thinking of your social audience as a resource instead of a hungry crowd, you can definitely boost your social engagement.
7 Easy Ways To Boost Social Engagement Today
Sunday, December 28, 2014
25 Free WordPress Plugins for Google Integration
Are you looking to enhance your website? Or do you just want to make your site more easy to find? Either way you’ll want to check out these free WordPress plugins for Google integration.
Far from its search engine roots, the Goggle of today offers a wide array of tools for both businesses and individuals. From website metrics to interactive maps, calendars, advertising, reviews and more, Google’s toolbox is bursting. Consider the features and functionality.
25 Free WordPress Plugins for Google Integration
Ditch Advertising, Craft Real Stories to Create Marketing "Fizz"
The book Fizz: Harness the Power of Word of Mouth Marketing to Drive Brand Growth helps employees & managers learn strategies behind effective word of mouth marketing.
Ditch Advertising, Craft Real Stories to Create Marketing "Fizz"
Ditch Advertising, Craft Real Stories to Create Marketing "Fizz"
Amazon, Xbox Live, PSN and more: Hackers leak 13,000 passwords
13,000 login details including payment card numbers an expiry dates have leaked from online services including Amazon, Xbox Live, Playstation Network and more, according to Tech Crunch.
The hackers posted a document with details of username and passwords, along with some credit card numbers and expiry dates to Ghostbin – a text storage website.
Amazon, Xbox Live, PSN and more: Hackers leak 13,000 passwords
30 eBay Apps for Business To Help You Operate Efficiently
Have you tapped into the potential eBay apps can offer your store? There are apps to manage everything from shipping to finances. And you can use these apps to lift some of your burden in these areas, increase sales and keep your customers happy. These apps can save you time and effort that can take away from the central focus of growing your eBay business.
Below is a list of 30 eBay apps that have gotten some good reviews.
30 eBay Apps for Business To Help You Operate Efficiently
The nine biggest tech flubs of 2014
From massive data breaches to company scandal, there was no shortage of tech failures in 2014. Check out some of the biggest blunders in tech below.
The nine biggest tech flubs of 2014
The nine biggest tech flubs of 2014
PlayStation Network back up after a cyberattack - Dec. 28, 2014
Sony said Sunday its PlayStation Network for online gaming is back after a multi-day outage on some of the busiest days of the year.
"PlayStation Network and some other gaming services were attacked over the holidays with artificially high levels of traffic designed to disrupt connectivity and online gameplay," wrote Catherine Jensen, a vice president at Sony Entertainment, in an online post.
PlayStation Network back up after a cyberattack - Dec. 28, 2014
Friday, December 26, 2014
'The Interview' illegally downloaded 750,000 times on Christmas - Dec. 26, 2014
"The Interview" was a big hit with pirates on Christmas.
There are thousands of people currently sharing the movie illegally on BitTorrent. On Christmas, about 750,000 people stole digital copies of "The Interview" by using the file-sharing software, according to piracy blog TorrentFreak.
'The Interview' illegally downloaded 750,000 times on Christmas - Dec. 26, 2014
Videos Your Small Business Must Have in the Coming Year
Video is so important. Unfortunately, there are many business owners who feel that video is not for them or they simply haven’t taken the time to create them.
You can use your smartphone to do a simple video, buy a cheap video camera or invest in a professional one that might cost about $1,000 or so.
Videos Your Small Business Must Have in the Coming Year
Hackers damage German factory
An online attack on a German steelworks caused massive damage to the infrastructure, according to reports.
The incident marks “one of the rare instances in which a digital attack actually caused physical damage”, reported IT World.
Hackers damage German factory
Thursday, December 25, 2014
Google fights Marriott's plan to block Wi-Fi hotspots - Dec. 25, 2014
Google and Microsoft have joined a growing chorus of businesses that oppose Marriott's attempt to block guests' Wi-Fi hotspots in their hotel rooms.
Marriott (MAR) and the hotel lobby American Hospitality & Lodging Association asked the FCC this summer to allow hotels to deploy equipment that prevents people from turning their phones into Wi-Fi hotspots.
Google fights Marriott's plan to block Wi-Fi hotspots - Dec. 25, 2014
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
Rackspace knocked offline by huge DDoS attack
Hosting and managed cloud provider Rackspace has been taken offline for more than 12 hours by a massive DDoS attack.
Rackspace posted a warning on its official Google+ page stating: “On December 21st, at approximately 23:54 CST, backbone engineers identified a UDP DDoS attack targeting the DNS servers in our IAD, ORD, and LON data centers. As a result of this issue, authoritative DNS resolution for any new request to the DNS servers began to fail in the affected data centres….a portion of legitimate traffic to our DNS infrastructure may be inadvertently blocked. Our teams are actively working to mitigate the attack and provide service stability.”
Rackspace knocked offline by huge DDoS attack
Uber CEO charged with operating illegal taxi service in South Korea - Dec. 24, 2014
The latest city to give Uber a chilly reception: Seoul, where Uber CEO Travis Kalanick is facing criminal charges.
Prosecutors told local media they charged Kalanick and the head of Uber's local business partner with operating without the proper license.
Uber CEO charged with operating illegal taxi service in South Korea - Dec. 24, 2014
T-Mobile is the tech company of the year - Dec. 24, 2014
T-Mobile had a more remarkable 2014 than any other American tech company.
Sure, Apple (AAPL, Tech30) unveiled the iWatch and Apple Pay. Microsoft (MSFT,Tech30) has been on an absolute tear since new CEO Satya Nadella took over in February.Netflix (NFLX, Tech30) solved its speed issues. And Facebook (FB, Tech30) dominated the social landscape with its WhatsApp purchase. It has been a great year for tech.
T-Mobile is the tech company of the year - Dec. 24, 2014
Tuesday, December 23, 2014
BBC News - North Korea struggles to stay online
North Korea appears to have suffered a second internet blackout, according to internet performance measuring firm Dyn Research.
BBC News - North Korea struggles to stay online
BBC News - North Korea struggles to stay online
Ten Fun and Useful Apps for Winter Playtime and Travels
The news for the middle months of 2014 was mixed. Chinese hackers gained access to U.S. employee data bases. A passenger plane was shot down over the Ukraine. Germany won the World Cup in Soccer. And actor James Garner passed away.
But the news for mobile apps is good — they just keep getting better and better.
Ten Fun and Useful Apps for Winter Playtime and Travels
Tor Network warns of potential attack
According to a blog post, the Tor project has learned of an upcoming attempt to compromise the anonymous network by knocking out specific key servers called directory authorities. As these servers manage the series of relays that make up the Tor Network, if enough of them were knocked offline the network could fail. However, Project leader Roger Dingledine – or “arma” as he is known – said: “We are taking steps now to ensure the safety of our users, and our system is already built to be redundant so that users maintain anonymity even if the network is attacked.”
Tor Network warns of potential attack
Tor Network warns of potential attack
Yik Yak - what security-conscious users need to know
Anonymous local messaging app Yik Yak has gone from being a tiny start-up founded by two American frat house brothers to being described as the ‘hottest messaging app in the world’ in just over a year, according to The Guardian.
The app, which allows users to post and browse a selection of GPS-located, anonymous comments within a few miles of their position, raised $62 million in funding in November – having hit 100,000 users in February 2014, according to GigaOm.
Yik Yak - what security-conscious users need to know
8 Great SEO Tools Every Startup Should Learn How To Use
No matter what specific industry you may be in, most likely you’re going to have a website. Websites are crucial in having a professional online presence. However, just because most professionals realize that a website is important, many lack the background in search engine optimization (SEO) to make it easier to find by search engines and target audiences alike.
Below are some great SEO tools that can make the learning process a lot easier by automating part of the process to give insight on what needs to be done next.
8 Great SEO Tools Every Startup Should Learn How To Use
Apple Pay Now Supports Most U.S. Credit Cards
Soon customers will be able to make most major credit card payments using nothing but their smartphone — specifically the latest iteration of the iPhone. Apple recently announced that most major credit cards in the U.S. and numerous well-known retailers and other businesses have now begun accepting Apple Pay.
With so many more banks and retailers getting behind the company’s new mobile payment system, it may not be long before your customers are asking you about the payment option too.
Apple Pay Now Supports Most U.S. Credit Cards
Russian iPhone prices soar 35% as Apple Store comes back online - Dec. 23, 2014
Apple's Russian store is back online. But iGizmo prices have gotten a lot more expensive.
The store was taken offline last week as as a dramatic drop in the value of the Russian ruble forced Apple and other western companies to adjust their prices in response.
Russian iPhone prices soar 35% as Apple Store comes back online - Dec. 23, 2014
Monday, December 22, 2014
Accenture Selected by Air Liquide to Implement Oracle-based ERP System for its North American Operations
From Accenture:
NEW YORK, Dec. 22, 2014 – Accenture (NYSE: ACN) has been selected by Air Liquide, the world leader in gases, technologies and services for industry and health, to implement a new Oracle enterprise resource planning (ERP) system for the company’s operations throughout North America.
The new system will support the transformation of Air Liquide’s business operations model and help drive strategic growth across the company’s industrial merchant, large industries, electronics and healthcare lines of business in North America, including Canada, the United States, Mexico and the Caribbean.
The Accenture project team will leverage Accenture Enterprise Services for industrial gases to help drive the IT implementation of Oracle E-Business Suite Release 12, including Financials, Procurement, Order Management, Manufacturing, and Advanced Supply Chain Planning, as well as Oracle Fusion Middleware. Accenture will provide system integration, project management and change management services for Air Liquide.
“A consolidated ERP landscape can enable higher performance via greater efficiency and effectiveness,” said Brian Botwinski, managing director in Accenture’s chemical industry group. “The result is a business system that is scalable and integrated across the region, which will provide greater access to tools and data to support strategic decision-making.”
About Accenture
Accenture is a global management consulting, technology services and outsourcing company, with approximately 319,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries. Combining unparalleled experience, comprehensive capabilities across all industries and business functions, and extensive research on the world’s most successful companies, Accenture collaborates with clients to help them become high-performance businesses and governments. The company generated net revenues of US$30.0 billion for the fiscal year ended Aug. 31, 2014. Its home page is www.accenture.com.
December 22, 2014
Accenture Selected by Air Liquide to Implement Oracle-based ERP System for its North American Operations
NEW YORK, Dec. 22, 2014 – Accenture (NYSE: ACN) has been selected by Air Liquide, the world leader in gases, technologies and services for industry and health, to implement a new Oracle enterprise resource planning (ERP) system for the company’s operations throughout North America.
The new system will support the transformation of Air Liquide’s business operations model and help drive strategic growth across the company’s industrial merchant, large industries, electronics and healthcare lines of business in North America, including Canada, the United States, Mexico and the Caribbean.
The Accenture project team will leverage Accenture Enterprise Services for industrial gases to help drive the IT implementation of Oracle E-Business Suite Release 12, including Financials, Procurement, Order Management, Manufacturing, and Advanced Supply Chain Planning, as well as Oracle Fusion Middleware. Accenture will provide system integration, project management and change management services for Air Liquide.
“A consolidated ERP landscape can enable higher performance via greater efficiency and effectiveness,” said Brian Botwinski, managing director in Accenture’s chemical industry group. “The result is a business system that is scalable and integrated across the region, which will provide greater access to tools and data to support strategic decision-making.”
About Accenture
Accenture is a global management consulting, technology services and outsourcing company, with approximately 319,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries. Combining unparalleled experience, comprehensive capabilities across all industries and business functions, and extensive research on the world’s most successful companies, Accenture collaborates with clients to help them become high-performance businesses and governments. The company generated net revenues of US$30.0 billion for the fiscal year ended Aug. 31, 2014. Its home page is www.accenture.com.
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Accenture Names Omar Abbosh Chief Strategy Officer, Succeeding Shawn Collinson
From Accenture:
NEW YORK; Dec. 22, 2014 – Accenture (NYSE: ACN) today announced the appointment of Omar Abbosh as chief strategy officer. He succeeds Shawn Collinson, who will retire from the company. These changes are effective March 1, 2015.
Mr. Abbosh, 48, is currently senior managing director – Growth & Strategy for the company’s Resources operating group, with responsibility for shaping the operating group’s strategy, including acquisition activities as well as joint ventures with clients in the smart grid space. He is also responsible for several of Accenture’s industry business services, including Accenture Smart Grid Services and Accenture Energy Consumer Services. As chief strategy officer, Mr. Abbosh will oversee all aspects of the company’s strategy and lead its Growth & Strategy organization. He will join Accenture’s Global Management Committee.
“I am delighted that Omar Abbosh will become our new chief strategy officer,” said chairman and CEO Pierre Nanterme. “He has been with Accenture for 25 years and held a variety of leadership roles serving many of our largest client relationships. Omar brings to his new role deep strategy expertise and broad, international experience, as well as a unique understanding of industry trends and dynamics. I look forward to working with Omar – and with our entire leadership team – as we continue to execute our growth strategy.
“I want to recognize and thank Shawn Collinson for his significant contributions to Accenture during his 25-year career with our company,” said Mr. Nanterme. “Most recently, Shawn has been instrumental in defining and executing Accenture’s growth strategy, driving our investment agenda and leading our industry programs, as well as the significant transformation of our business. It has been my pleasure to work closely with Shawn over the years, and on behalf of our senior leadership team and everyone at Accenture, I wish Shawn all the best in the future.”
About Accenture
Accenture is a global management consulting, technology services and outsourcing company, with approximately 319,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries. Combining unparalleled experience, comprehensive capabilities across all industries and business functions, and extensive research on the world’s most successful companies, Accenture collaborates with clients to help them become high-performance businesses and governments. The company generated net revenues of US$30.0 billion for the fiscal year ended Aug. 31, 2014. Its home page is www.accenture.com.
December 22, 2014
Accenture Names Omar Abbosh Chief Strategy Officer, Succeeding Shawn Collinson
NEW YORK; Dec. 22, 2014 – Accenture (NYSE: ACN) today announced the appointment of Omar Abbosh as chief strategy officer. He succeeds Shawn Collinson, who will retire from the company. These changes are effective March 1, 2015.
Mr. Abbosh, 48, is currently senior managing director – Growth & Strategy for the company’s Resources operating group, with responsibility for shaping the operating group’s strategy, including acquisition activities as well as joint ventures with clients in the smart grid space. He is also responsible for several of Accenture’s industry business services, including Accenture Smart Grid Services and Accenture Energy Consumer Services. As chief strategy officer, Mr. Abbosh will oversee all aspects of the company’s strategy and lead its Growth & Strategy organization. He will join Accenture’s Global Management Committee.
“I am delighted that Omar Abbosh will become our new chief strategy officer,” said chairman and CEO Pierre Nanterme. “He has been with Accenture for 25 years and held a variety of leadership roles serving many of our largest client relationships. Omar brings to his new role deep strategy expertise and broad, international experience, as well as a unique understanding of industry trends and dynamics. I look forward to working with Omar – and with our entire leadership team – as we continue to execute our growth strategy.
“I want to recognize and thank Shawn Collinson for his significant contributions to Accenture during his 25-year career with our company,” said Mr. Nanterme. “Most recently, Shawn has been instrumental in defining and executing Accenture’s growth strategy, driving our investment agenda and leading our industry programs, as well as the significant transformation of our business. It has been my pleasure to work closely with Shawn over the years, and on behalf of our senior leadership team and everyone at Accenture, I wish Shawn all the best in the future.”
About Accenture
Accenture is a global management consulting, technology services and outsourcing company, with approximately 319,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries. Combining unparalleled experience, comprehensive capabilities across all industries and business functions, and extensive research on the world’s most successful companies, Accenture collaborates with clients to help them become high-performance businesses and governments. The company generated net revenues of US$30.0 billion for the fiscal year ended Aug. 31, 2014. Its home page is www.accenture.com.
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Accenture Awarded $19.8 Million Contract to Enhance Navy Enterprise Resource Planning System
From Accenture:
ARLINGTON, Va.; Dec. 22, 2014 – The U.S. Department of the Navy has awarded Accenture Federal Services five task orders under an indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract to provide information technology support and training for the Navy Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. Each task order has a one-year period of performance. The total value of all five task orders is $19.8 million.
Accenture is helping support, maintain and improve the Navy ERP system, built on the SAP® ERP application, for the Naval Supply Systems Command’s (NAVSUP) Business Systems Center (BSC) in Mechanicsburg, Pa. NAVSUP delivers information technology solutions with specific emphasis on logistics and financial-related products and services for the Navy, U.S. Department of Defense, Military Services and other federal agencies.
Work under the task orders includes supporting the financial and supply chain systems, providing technical system development and enhancements, and delivering functional training support to system users.
Navy ERP is an integrated financial and business management system that manages more than 50 percent of the Navy’s total obligation authority, with more than 68,000 users worldwide. The system is integral to achieving the Navy’s goal of producing auditable financial statements in compliance with U.S. Department of Defense and Navy audit guidance.
“Navy ERP is an important system in the Navy’s business systems portfolio. It meets critical fleet supply needs, provides financial visibility and improved auditability, and delivers more accurate information for better decision-making. We are proud to be selected to help the Navy sustain the system,” said Vince Vlasho, who leads Accenture’s work with the Navy.
Accenture also supports the Navy with comprehensive audit readiness services and IT effectiveness evaluations for the Navy as well as program management and engineering services for the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Pacific.
Accenture Federal Services is a U.S. company, with offices in Arlington, Va., and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Accenture LLP. Accenture’s federal business has served every cabinet-level department and 30 of the largest federal organizations with clients at defense, intelligence, public safety and civilian agencies.
Learn more about Accenture’s work with federal agencies, its global defense work, andDelivering Public Service for the Future.
About Accenture
Accenture is a global management consulting, technology services and outsourcing company, with more than 319,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries. Combining unparalleled experience, comprehensive capabilities across all industries and business functions, and extensive research on the world’s most successful companies, Accenture collaborates with clients to help them become high-performance businesses and governments. The company generated net revenues of US$30.0 billion for the fiscal year ended Aug. 31, 2014. Its home page is www.accenture.com.
SAP and other SAP products and services mentioned herein as well as their respective logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of SAP SE (or an SAP affiliate company) in Germany and other countries. See http://www.sap.com/corporate-en/legal/copyright/index.epx for additional trademark information and notices. All other product and service names mentioned are the trademarks of their respective companies.
December 22, 2014
Accenture Awarded $19.8 Million Contract to Enhance Navy Enterprise Resource Planning System
ARLINGTON, Va.; Dec. 22, 2014 – The U.S. Department of the Navy has awarded Accenture Federal Services five task orders under an indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract to provide information technology support and training for the Navy Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. Each task order has a one-year period of performance. The total value of all five task orders is $19.8 million.
Accenture is helping support, maintain and improve the Navy ERP system, built on the SAP® ERP application, for the Naval Supply Systems Command’s (NAVSUP) Business Systems Center (BSC) in Mechanicsburg, Pa. NAVSUP delivers information technology solutions with specific emphasis on logistics and financial-related products and services for the Navy, U.S. Department of Defense, Military Services and other federal agencies.
Work under the task orders includes supporting the financial and supply chain systems, providing technical system development and enhancements, and delivering functional training support to system users.
Navy ERP is an integrated financial and business management system that manages more than 50 percent of the Navy’s total obligation authority, with more than 68,000 users worldwide. The system is integral to achieving the Navy’s goal of producing auditable financial statements in compliance with U.S. Department of Defense and Navy audit guidance.
“Navy ERP is an important system in the Navy’s business systems portfolio. It meets critical fleet supply needs, provides financial visibility and improved auditability, and delivers more accurate information for better decision-making. We are proud to be selected to help the Navy sustain the system,” said Vince Vlasho, who leads Accenture’s work with the Navy.
Accenture also supports the Navy with comprehensive audit readiness services and IT effectiveness evaluations for the Navy as well as program management and engineering services for the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Pacific.
Accenture Federal Services is a U.S. company, with offices in Arlington, Va., and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Accenture LLP. Accenture’s federal business has served every cabinet-level department and 30 of the largest federal organizations with clients at defense, intelligence, public safety and civilian agencies.
Learn more about Accenture’s work with federal agencies, its global defense work, andDelivering Public Service for the Future.
About Accenture
Accenture is a global management consulting, technology services and outsourcing company, with more than 319,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries. Combining unparalleled experience, comprehensive capabilities across all industries and business functions, and extensive research on the world’s most successful companies, Accenture collaborates with clients to help them become high-performance businesses and governments. The company generated net revenues of US$30.0 billion for the fiscal year ended Aug. 31, 2014. Its home page is www.accenture.com.
SAP and other SAP products and services mentioned herein as well as their respective logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of SAP SE (or an SAP affiliate company) in Germany and other countries. See http://www.sap.com/corporate-en/legal/copyright/index.epx for additional trademark information and notices. All other product and service names mentioned are the trademarks of their respective companies.
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AVT-PR-Avnet Opens Global Development Center in China
State-of-the-art facility enhances Avnet's enterprise effectiveness capabilities
AVT-PR-Avnet Opens Global Development Center in China
North Korea falls off the internet - is the United States to blame?
On Friday, US President Barack Obama made headlines around the world, confirming that the White House believed that North Korea engaged in the hacking attack against Sony Pictures.
North Korea falls off the internet - is the United States to blame?
North Korea falls off the internet - is the United States to blame?
Two Business Video Trends for 2015
If you look at data related to video and business, you will see that video is exploding. In the new year, that trend will continue. Especially among business owners who are frustrated with social media. And apparently — there are quite a few.
A Manta Research Study of small business owners revealed that 61 percent said they were getting “no results” from their social media efforts. Regardless of the reasons they claimed “no results”, 61 percent is a significant number. In new year, those business owners will be asking the question, “What now?”
Two Business Video Trends for 2015
DDoS & Security Reports » North Korea Goes Offline
It was reported earlier today that North Korea was having Internet connectivity issues.
Now obviously given recent events with Sony, this sort of report is far more fascinating than it normally would be. The first question when you see this type of report is whether it’s purely a connectivity issue or whether an attack is behind it. While visibility into North Korean Internet is quite difficult, we are able to see quite a few attacks over the last few days.
DDoS & Security Reports » North Korea Goes Offline
The Sony Pictures Hack: 5 short sharp lessons we all can learn
The recent hacking of Sony Pictures offers valuable lessons in cybersecurity from which every company and consumer can learn. When you set aside the politics and gossip about nation states and Hollywood celebs, some practical implications are clear:
The Sony Pictures Hack: 5 short sharp lessons we all can learn
The Sony Pictures Hack: 5 short sharp lessons we all can learn
EMC Helps Preserve the World’s Culture through Digitization of Historical Artifacts
From EMC:
EMC Helps Preserve the World’s Culture through Digitization of Historical Artifacts
Projects from the UK, Canada and India recognized as 2014 EMC Information Heritage Trust Grant recipients
HOPKINTON, MASS, DECEMBER 22, 2014 -
EMC Corporation (NYSE: EMC) today announced three organizations as grant recipients of the 2014 EMC Heritage Trust Project. The grants will support projects that practice and encourage the stewardship of cultural information in local communities in the UK, Canada and India.
Founded in 2007, EMC's Information Heritage Initiative program helps advance the conservation of information heritage through digitization around the world, allowing readily accessible online research and education. In conjunction with the program, the EMC Heritage Trust Project recognizes and supports local people and local projects that practice and inspire the digital stewardship of the world's information heritage. To date, EMC has recognized more than 40 projects with Heritage Trust grants and, through the broader EMC Information Heritage Initiative program, has donated more than $35 million.
To learn more about the Information Heritage Trust Project, read about past recipients and watch videos on current projects, including one of the 2014 winners – Digitizing the Christmas Lectures – visit EMC's new Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/emccorp/app_1416254715287343
2014 GRANT RECIPIENTS
- Digitizing the Christmas Lectures, United Kingdom – Since 1825, the Royal Institution's Christmas Lectures have provided children and young adults engaging talks on scientific topics from leading British scientists, inspiring generations of young people on the magic of scientific discovery. In 1966, the lectures began broadcasting on national television, and are now considered a priceless part of modern Britain's heritage. The Royal Institution's Heritage Trust Grant will be used to digitize all Christmas Lecture recordings from 1966 on, making them available to audiences around the world.
- The Nikkei National Museum's Internment Project, Canada – The Nikkei National Museum is dedicated to preserving and making accessible photographs and artifacts that tell the difficult history of the Japanese Canadian internment camps during World War II. The Museum has the largest collection of artifacts, and through digitization, would be able to make the collection available to researchers around the world. Through its EMC Heritage Trust Grant, the Museum plans to add 2,000-4,000 new items to its online database.
- The Merasi Legacy Project, U.S./India – US-based non-profit, Folk Arts Rajasthan (FAR) and India-based NGO, Lok Kala Sagar Sansthan (LKSS) are two organizations working to preserve the cultural heritage of the Mesari of northwestern India as storytellers. Through educational programming, the organizations are working to perpetuate the Merasi cultural legacy while balancing the opportunities and challenges of modernization. EMC's Heritage Trust Grant will work towards adding recordings, files, and objects to a growing archive that will soon be available online.
The EMC Heritage Trust Project grant recipients were selected based on the following criteria: potential size of the audience that would benefit from access to the information they are seeking to protect; the at-risk status of the information and why it is urgent to digitize; and how beneficial the EMC grant would be to the overall success of the project.
Nominations for the 2015 Heritage Trust Project will open in May 2015. For more information on the EMC Heritage Trust Project, visit: https://www.facebook.com/emccorp/app_222471081145150
EMC QUOTE
Jessica Anderson, Director, Community Involvement, EMC Corporation
“Preserving cultural artifacts and making them accessible to people around the world is so important. It allows information to be seen by a much wider audience, and provides historic background for future generations to build on. Thanks to modern technology and digitization efforts, more communities around the world are sharing their stories. EMC is proud to help global communities with their efforts. Congratulations to our 2014 grant recipients.”
ABOUT EMC
EMC Corporation is a global leader in enabling businesses and service providers to transform their operations and deliver IT as a service. Fundamental to this transformation is cloud computing. Through innovative products and services, EMC accelerates the journey to cloud computing, helping IT departments to store, manage, protect and analyze their most valuable asset — information — in a more agile, trusted and cost-efficient way. Additional information about EMC can be found at www.EMC.com.
DSTRUX: Self-destruct what you share
Nathan Hecht, DSTRUX, discusses his email platform which allows users to set a self-destruct timer for pictures or documents shared through email or social media.
Video (2:40)
http://video.cnbc.com/gallery/?video=3000340957
Video (2:40)
http://video.cnbc.com/gallery/?video=3000340957
Instagram and others battle anti-cop posts - Dec. 22, 2014
On Instagram, #shootthepolice is no longer searchable. On Twitter, a hashtag is still visible that groups posts together inciting violence against cops.
Here's one post from Twitter: An image of a gun with the message, "Speak to cops in a language they understand." There are also videos of police altercations with civilians.
Instagram and others battle anti-cop posts - Dec. 22, 2014
Uber seeking patent on surge pricing - Dec. 22, 2014
Uber is seeking a patent for its "surge pricing," in which riders are sometimes charged exorbitant amounts at times of high demand.
The company submitted a patent application in September 2013. Uber initially had that application rejected by the U.S. Patent Office, but it is appealing that decision.
Uber seeking patent on surge pricing - Dec. 22, 2014
AVT-PR-Memory Market Sourcing Challenges to Continue According to Market & Technology Trends Report from Avnet Electronics Marketing
PHOENIX – With no near-term end in sight for rising prices and extended lead times in a variety of DDR memory form factors, customers who do not proactively build backlog for these devices could find themselves facing the dreaded "A-word" – allocation – according to the latest Market & Technology Trends report now available from Avnet Electronics Marketing, an operating group of Avnet, Inc. (NYSE: AVT). In a video released today, Alex Iuorio, senior vice president, supplier marketing for Avnet Electronics Marketing Americas, presents highlights of the most recent Market and Technology Trends Report, including commentary on memory market sourcing challenges as well information on exciting new product introductions supporting high-performance, high-functionality embedded and wireless systems for the ever-expanding connected device market. The video is available here: http://bit.ly/1Aq5Tai.
AVT-PR-Memory Market Sourcing Challenges to Continue According to Market & Technology Trends Report from Avnet Electronics Marketing
AVT-PR-Memory Market Sourcing Challenges to Continue According to Market & Technology Trends Report from Avnet Electronics Marketing
BitTorrent to release 'The Interview'? - Dec. 22, 2014
BitTorrent, the same file-sharing network used to distribute hacked Sony documents and emails, says it's the perfect candidate for Sony to release "The Interview."
Hackers succeeded in getting Sony to pull "The Interview." A combination of extortion and physical threats scared Sony Pictures enough that the company gave theater chains the choice to drop out from distributing the movie. They all did.
BitTorrent to release 'The Interview'? - Dec. 22, 2014
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