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Korean researchers employ air as refrigerant to cut global warming

Naushad K. Cherrayil
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Korean researchers employ air as refrigerant to cut global warming
  • The ability to replace high-GWP refrigerants with air not only addresses the immediate environmental concerns associated with traditional cooling systems but also aligns with global efforts to combat climate change.
  • New refrigeration technology not only mitigates harmful effects of global warming but also sets a precedent for future innovations in energy efficiency and sustainability.

Global warming represents one of the most pressing challenges of our time, driven primarily by the accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

Among the various contributors to this phenomenon, refrigerants—particularly those with high global warming potential (GWP)—have emerged as significant culprits.

The conventional refrigeration and air conditioning systems that utilise these harmful substances have come under increasing scrutiny as the world grapples with the urgent need for sustainable practices.

In a groundbreaking development, researchers from the Korea Institute of Energy Research (KIER) have pioneered a new refrigeration technology that utilises air as a refrigerant, offering a promising alternative to traditional high-GWP refrigerants such as hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and Freon.

Eco-friendly refrigerants

The traditional approach to refrigeration has predominantly relied on the vapour compression cycle, a method that has served industries for decades due to its simplicity and effectiveness.

In this cycle, a liquid refrigerant evapourates, absorbing heat and thereby cooling the surrounding environment. While this method has been widely adopted across various sectors, it comes with a significant drawback: its reliance on fluorinated greenhouse gases, which are known to have a devastating impact on global warming.

The urgency to transition away from these harmful substances has been underscored by recent regulatory changes, particularly the European Union’s revised regulation on fluorinated greenhouse gases that took effect in March 2024.

The regulation mandates the gradual phase-out of products containing F-gases, starting in 2025, and anticipates stricter controls on processes that utilise these substances. As a result, there is an escalating need for innovative technologies that can replace conventional refrigerants without compromising efficiency.

Dr. Beom Joon Lee, the lead researcher at KIER, has emphasised the importance of this transition.

“Due to environmental regulations, refrigeration systems that primarily use refrigerants with a high global warming potential are rapidly transitioning to the use of eco-friendly refrigerants,” he said.

Eliminating environmental risks

The research team at KIER has focused on developing a cooling system based on the reverse-Brayton cycle, which employs air as the refrigerant.

The innovative approach diverges from traditional methods by compressing a gas, which then undergoes heat exchange and expansion to produce a low-temperature gas.

The process enables cooling without the need for liquid refrigerants, thereby eliminating the environmental risks associated with high-GWP substances.

Despite the potential advantages of the reverse-Brayton cycle, the design and construction of such systems have posed significant challenges. The complexity of the technology requires precision engineering, particularly in the design of the compander—a critical component that connects the compressor, expander, and motor on a single shaft.

The ultra-high-speed rotation during the cooling process necessitates extremely tight tolerances, with gaps between components and shaft displacement requiring precision within 0.1 millimetres.

The level of accuracy is essential to ensure the stable operation of the system at high rotational speeds, which enhances both the reliability and performance of the refrigeration technology.

The results achieved by the KIER research team are promising. They have successfully cooled air to below -60 degrees Celsius within just one hour, demonstrating higher refrigeration efficiency compared to traditional vapor compression systems when generating cold temperatures below -50 degrees Celsius.

Theoretically, this innovative system is capable of achieving temperatures as low as -100 degrees Celsius, with expectations that refrigeration efficiency could improve by more than 50 per cent compared to conventional methods at that temperature.

We are currently working on improving the system’s performance to enable the production of cold temperatures below -100 degrees Celsius. We anticipate that this technology will be applied in fields that require ultra-low temperatures, such as semiconductor processes, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology,” Lee said.

The implications of this research extend far beyond the laboratory. As industries worldwide face increasing pressure to reduce their carbon footprints and comply with stringent environmental regulations, the development of air-based refrigeration technology represents a critical step toward sustainable practices.

BYD to use Huawei’s autonomous driving system on its EVs

Mohammed Fahad
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BYD to use Huawei’s autonomous driving system on its EVs
  • Collaboration with Huawei is a strategic response to the dual challenges of differentiating its product offerings and enhancing its technological capabilities.
  • BYD’s dependence on third-party providers for essential intelligent functionalities emphasises BYD’s current challenges in building a comprehensive in-house solution.

In an era marked by rapid technological advancements and an unwavering commitment to sustainability, the electric vehicle (EV) market has emerged as a battleground for automotive giants across the globe.

The recent collaboration between BYD, a leading manufacturer of electric vehicles in China, and Huawei, a preeminent tech conglomerate, signifies a pivotal development.

The strategic partnership, involving the incorporation of Huawei’s advanced autonomous driving system into BYD’s off-road Fangchengbao EVs, is not merely a business arrangement; it represents a fundamental shift in the competitive dynamics of the Chinese electric vehicle sector.

BYD has established itself as a formidable player in the global EV market. The company has thrived through a vertical integration strategy, enabling it to manufacture critical components, such as batteries, in-house.

The approach has granted BYD a substantial cost advantage over its competitors, allowing it to maintain market leadership despite the burgeoning competition.

Facing pressure

However, as the industry increasingly prioritises autonomous technologies and smart driving features, BYD faces a pressing need to evolve. The collaboration with Huawei is a strategic response to the dual challenges of differentiating its product offerings and enhancing its technological capabilities.

The Bao 8 SUV, the first model from the Fangchengbao lineup to feature Huawei’s Qiankun intelligent driving system, is a testament to this evolving approach. Scheduled for release later this year, the Bao 8 exemplifies BYD’s intent to position itself within the premium segment of the market.

However, despite the ambitious goal of augmenting the sales of its premium brands—Denza, Fangchengbao, and Yangwang—these models collectively represented a mere  five per cent of BYD’s total sales in the first half of the year, as indicated by data from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers.

This stark statistic underscores the urgency for BYD to elevate its product attractiveness to capture a larger share of the upscale market.

Competitive pressures

The partnership with Huawei also highlights the increasing pressures on BYD to enhance its technological competencies in response to a rapidly evolving competitive landscape. While BYD has made significant investments in developing its own advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS), the company has relied on external suppliers, such as Momenta, for critical features in its more luxurious models like the Denza.

The dependence on third-party providers for essential intelligent functionalities emphasises BYD’s current challenges in building a comprehensive in-house solution.

By adopting Huawei’s sophisticated technology, BYD not only gains access to cutting-edge smart driving capabilities but also fortifies its position against domestic and international competitors who are investing heavily in similar innovations.

Huawei’s burgeoning reputation as a key player in the EV sector, particularly in providing ADAS solutions, further complicates the competitive landscape. Notably, the decision by Volkswagen’s Audi to integrate Huawei’s ADAS into its EV offerings for the Chinese market illustrates the duality of the partnership.

While it serves as a critical lifeline for BYD’s technological ambitions, it also enshrines Huawei’s role as a dominant supplier within the automotive sphere, further intensifying the competitive rivalry within the EV industry.

A crucial differentiator

The integration of Huawei’s technologies into BYD vehicles may not only enhance the functionality and safety of its electric offerings but also instill greater consumer confidence in the brand’s ability to innovate.

As consumers increasingly prioritise advanced technological features—such as autonomous driving capabilities—the partnership with Huawei could serve as a crucial differentiator for BYD amid escalating competition.

Looking ahead, the implications of this collaboration transcend immediate product offerings; they signify a broader trend within the automotive industry. As traditional automotive manufacturers pivot towards electrification and smart technologies, strategic alliances—such as that between BYD and Huawei—will likely become commonplace.

These partnerships could reshape conventional paradigms, driving a wave of innovation while ensuring that companies remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market.

Moreover, as BYD seeks to bolster its presence in high-end segments, it will need to effectively communicate and articulate the value added by Huawei’s technology to potential consumers. Marketing strategies will play a crucial role in positioning the Bao 8 SUV and its successors as desirable options within the premium vehicle market, which is increasingly characterised by discerning buyers keen on technological prowess and sustainability.

Paris court details why it arrested Pavel Durov

Naushad K. Cherrayil
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Paris court details why it arrested Pavel Durov
  • Durov’s arrest is a complex convergence of legal proceedings grounded in criminal investigation rather than political oppression or regulatory enforcement.
  • The intersection of privacy, security, and responsibility in the digital realm is increasingly becoming a focal point for governments, legal entities, and tech companies alike.

On August 24, 2024, Pavel Durov, the founder and CEO of the widely used messaging app Telegram, was arrested in France, drawing significant international attention and raising critical issues surrounding digital privacy, regulatory compliance and the responsibilities of social media platforms.

The French authorities, adhering to the principle of secrecy that governs pre-trial investigations, have remained relatively tight-lipped about the circumstances surrounding Durov’s arrest.

However, preliminary reports indicate that the Paris criminal court is investigating Telegram for its allegedly inadequate moderation processes and its perceived unwillingness to cooperate with law enforcement on serious issues such as drug trafficking, money laundering, and the circulation of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

The orchestration of this high-profile arrest, coupled with the ensuing media frenzy, has sparked a flurry of responses from prominent figures in technology and activism. Elon Musk, the billionaire owner of X, publicly advocated for Durov’s release, posting “#FreePavel” on his platform.

Equally compelling was the implication put forth by Edward Snowden, the renowned privacy advocate and NSA whistleblower, suggesting that Durov’s arrest might have been influenced by political motives from the French government, particularly President Emmanuel Macron.

Regulatory scrutiny

Given Telegram’s prominence, especially within Russia and Ukraine—two countries facing complex socio-political challenges—the implications of Durov’s arrest extend beyond mere legal considerations.

The platform, with approximately 950 million monthly active users, serves as a vital communication tool for activists, journalists, and everyday users seeking secure messaging free from governmental oversight.

Telegram’s popularity and its role as a lifeline for freedom of expression have consequently placed it in the crosshairs of law enforcement and regulatory scrutiny.

In light of the outcry and speculations regarding Durov’s arrest, the Paris criminal court has released a press statement to clarify the situation.

According to the statement, the Paris Public Prosecutor’s Office initiated a preliminary investigation against Durov on July 8, 2024, in response to concerns regarding cybercrime and associated activities on Telegram.

Collaboration between the Centre for the Fight against Cybercrime (C3N) and the Anti-Fraud National Office (ONAF) has ensued, resulting in twelve charges against an unnamed individual—a legal term in France signifying the entity in charge of Telegram.

Four charges

The charges against Durov encompass four principal categories, each intricately woven with both legal and technical nuances.

First and foremost, Durov faces accusations of facilitating the storage and distribution of CSAM, enabling drug trafficking, and participating in organized fraud and other illicit transactions through the platform.

These charges underscore the persistent challenges that digital communication tools face in managing harmful content while respecting user privacy.

Second, Durov has been cited for Telegram’s alleged failure to cooperate with law enforcement authorities in response to official requests for information or documentation. This raises essential questions regarding the balance between user confidentiality and the necessity for platforms to aid legal investigations, especially when confronted with serious crimes.

Thirdly, several charges are linked to the cryptographic features inherent to Telegram, which have not been formally certified by French regulatory bodies. Professor Florence G’sell has indicated that these particular allegations may be seen as relatively minor in the grand scope of the investigation; nonetheless, they reflect broader concerns about regulatory oversight in the digital space.

The fourth category of charges posits that Durov is implicated in a “criminal association with a view to committing a crime or an offense punishable by 5 or more years of imprisonment,” which includes allegations of money laundering. This charge is particularly noteworthy given the recent introduction of Stars—a digital currency within the Telegram ecosystem—allowing users to purchase content and enabling conversions to Toncoin, Telegram’s designated cryptocurrency.

Telegram’s built-in crypto wallet and the tradable nature of Toncoin exacerbate potential vulnerabilities related to monetary regulation, especially concerning “know your customer” requirements which, if unmet, could facilitate money laundering activities.

The complexity and breadth of these allegations raise significant questions about the accountability of digital platforms in addressing illicit activities and fostering user safety.

Criminal investigation

Within this context, one particular charge stands out for its ambiguity: the claim of “complicity—offering, selling or making available, without legitimate reason, equipment, tools, programs or data designed for or adapted to get access to and to damage the operation of an automated data processing system.”

The charge underscores the evolving nature of cybercrime and reflects the difficulties authorities face when attempting to regulate rapidly advancing technology.

The intersection of privacy, security, and responsibility in the digital realm is increasingly becoming a focal point for governments, legal entities, and tech companies alike.

His arrest arises from an active criminal investigation rather than any regulatory crackdown stemming from the European Union’s Digital Services Act (DSA) or other similar tech-specific regulations.

As outlined by French President Emmanuel Macron, Durov’s apprehension is firmly rooted in the judiciary’s autonomous function, devoid of any political motivations.

Macron emphasised the foundation of judicial independence by stating, “It is up to the judiciary, in full independence, to enforce the law.”

His remarks serve to reassure both the public and the tech community that Durov’s legal challenges stem from alleged criminal activities, not from a campaign against technological innovation or free expression.

Looking ahead, the legal proceedings against Durov are poised to unfold rapidly. French authorities possess the authority to detain and interrogate him for a maximum of 96 hours, a deadline that looms considerably. Post-interrogation, the judiciary will determine whether sufficient grounds exist for formal charges.

The decision will also address whether Durov should be held in custody as a preventive measure. Given his tendency to reside in Dubai, along with his multiple passports and access to a private jet, there exists a legitimate concern regarding his potential flight risk, which might influence the court’s decision on custody.

How to safeguard your WhatsApp account from cyber threats

Contributor
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How to safeguard your WhatsApp account from cyber threats

In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, instant messaging applications have transcended their primary function of communication, emerging as pivotal tools in both personal and professional domains.

Among these platforms, WhatsApp stands out with its extensive user base and versatile functionality. Its convenience and accessibility, however, also render it an attractive target for cybercriminals.

With a plethora of online threats and social engineering tactics, users must remain vigilant to protect themselves against the twin perils of financial fraud and the unauthorised access of confidential information.

The allure of WhatsApp

WhatsApp has revolutionised the way people interact, offering features such as end-to-end encryption, voice and video calling, and file-sharing capabilities.

These functionalities not only enhance personal connections but also facilitate professional collaboration. For businesses, WhatsApp serves as a critical communication tool, enabling real-time discussions, efficient information sharing, and seamless engagement with clients.

However, as the platform’s popularity has soared, so too has the sophistication of cyber threats targeting its users.

Cybercriminals often exploit social engineering tactics to manipulate individuals into divulging sensitive information or transferring funds.

Irina Zinovkina.

The manipulation may involve phishing attacks masquerading as legitimate communication or the creation of fraudulent accounts that mirror real users.

Understanding these risks is essential for all WhatsApp users, as the repercussions of falling victim to such tactics can be severe—ranging from financial loss to identity theft.

Essential safeguards for WhatsApp users

To bolster the security of their accounts and ward off potential hacking attempts, users can adopt a series of strategic measures. Implementing these practices not only enhances individual protection but also promotes a safer community overall.

  1. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): The first line of defense against unauthorized account access is two-factor authentication. This feature requires not only a password but also a second form of verification, such as a code sent to the user’s phone, adding an additional layer of security.
  2. Guard the Verification Code: Users must exercise caution and never share confirmation codes with others or input them on unverified websites. Cybercriminals often employ tactics designed to elicit this sensitive information, and users must remain wary of such requests.
  3. Disable Automatic Downloads: By default, many messaging apps, including WhatsApp, may automatically download media files sent from other users. This functionality can be exploited to deliver malicious files. Therefore, disabling automatic downloading is a prudent step to avoid inadvertently compromising the device.
  4. Limit Profile Visibility: Users should restrict the visibility of their personal data, such as profile photos, statuses, and information, to contacts only. By doing so, they mitigate the risk of exposure to individuals who could misuse this information.
  5. Exercise Caution with Links and Files: Avoid following links from unknown or suspicious accounts or downloading files from untrustworthy sources. Implementing a healthy skepticism regarding unsolicited messages can prevent many potential threats.
  6. Verify Suspicious Messages from Contacts: Fraudsters often hijack accounts and communicate with victims as if they are trusted contacts. Users should be prepared to verify any unusual requests from friends or colleagues through alternative communication methods, thereby confirming the legitimacy of the message.

Responding to compromised account

Despite proactive measures, there remains a possibility that a user’s WhatsApp account could be compromised. In such an unfortunate event, swift action is essential to mitigate damage and restore security.

  1. Notify Contacts: The first step upon discovering unauthorized access is to inform all contacts about the breach. By alerting them to potential fraudulent messages, users can prevent further scams and protect their acquaintances.
  2. Terminate Unauthorized Sessions: WhatsApp allows users to check and monitor active sessions on their accounts. Immediately terminating any unauthorized sessions can help regain control over the account.
  3. Report to WhatsApp Support: Users should report the incident to WhatsApp technical support, providing details about the hack. Such reports not only assist in the restoration of the user’s account but also provide valuable data to improve overarching security measures.
  4. Reinstall WhatsApp: As a final safeguard, deleting and reinstalling the app can help remove any malicious software that could have been installed during the unauthorized access. After reinstalling, users must log in again and verify their phone number to restore full functionality.

As the use of messaging applications like WhatsApp continues to grow, so too does the necessity for robust cybersecurity practices. While the convenience of these platforms cannot be overstated, users must remain proactive in protecting their information from escalating cyber threats.

By implementing security measures such as two-factor authentication, cautious management of personal data, and diligent verification of communications, users can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to online fraud.

Additionally, understanding the steps to take in the event of a breach ensures users can act quickly and effectively, minimising potential damage. Ultimately, a collective commitment to cybersecurity through awareness and vigilance is vital in fostering a safer digital environment for all.

  • Irina Zinovkina is the Head of the Analytical Research Unit at Positive Technologies.

AI-driven cybercrimes soar amid clampdown in first half of 2024

Ana Mary Joseph
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AI-driven cybercrimes soar amid clampdown in first half of 2024
  • Banking institutions were hit hardest by ransomware attacks in the first half of 2024, followed closely by technology sector.
  • Trend Micro’s report highlights resilience of threat actors.

Trend Micro warned that threat actors have bounced back from recent law enforcement efforts to unleash a new wave of attacks leveraging AI and other techniques.

As per Trend Micro’s first half report, malicious actors remains acute despite successful law enforcement actions against LockBit (Operation Cronos), dropper malware networks (Operation Endgame), and unsanctioned use of Cobalt Strike (Operation Morpheus).

LockBit is widely recognised as the world’s most prolific and harmful ransomware, causing billions of euros worth of damage and has even developed a new variant, LockBit-NG-Dev.

The Department of Justice joined the United Kingdom and international law enforcement partners in February this year and announced the disruption of the LockBit ransomware group.

No time for complacency

The partners disrupted LockBit’s operations by seizing numerous public-facing websites used by LockBit to connect to the organisation’s infrastructure and seizing control of servers used by LockBit administrators, thereby disrupting the ability of LockBit actors to attack and encrypt networks and extort victims by threatening to publish stolen data.

In addition to the seizing of technical infrastructure, the law enforcement operations around LockBit also include arrests in Poland, Ukraine, and the US, as well as sanctions for two alleged members of the group who are based in Russia. The group has members spread around the world, the officials said.

Tony Lee, Head of Consulting at Trend Micro Hong Kong and Macau, said that Trend Micro blocked over 75.9 billion threats for customers in the first half of the year, but there’s no time for complacency.

“As malicious actors begin to embrace AI as a tool, industry must respond in kind, by designing security strategies to take account of evolving threats. This is an arms race we can’t afford to lose.”

A big cause of concern, he said is criminal use and abuse of AI.

Deepfake offerings rise

During Operation Cronos, Trend Micro analysed an in-development LockBit sample with a completely new code base – LockBit-NG-Dev (where NG stands for “new generation”). Based on Trend Micro’s analysis, LockBit-NG-Dev is written in .NET, is compiled using CoreRT, and is believed to be platform-agnostic.

Trend Micro has observed threat actors hiding malware in legitimate AI software, operating criminal LLMs, and even selling jailbreak-as-a-service offerings.

The latter enable cybercriminals to trick generative AI bots into answering questions that go against their own policies—primarily for developing malware and social engineering lures.

Also in the first half, cybercriminals have been ramping up deepfake offerings to carry out virtual kidnapping scams, conduct targeted BEC-type impersonation fraud, and bypass KYC checks. Trojan malware has been developed to harvest biometric data to help with the latter.

myco secures $10m funding to spread wings further

TCN Bureau
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myco secures $10m funding to spread wings further
  • New funding values the UAE-based startup at $80m.
  • myco’s live streaming division secures major rights until 2025, including ICC and PSL Cricket Rights for Pakistan, all major cricketing rights for North America via Willow TV, and rights for the World Squash Federation and Egypt Squash Federation.

UAE-based Web3 streaming platform – myco – has closed its $10 million Series A funding from prominent investors from MENA, North America and Europe to spread wings into newer markets.

Key participants include Daman Investments, Aptos Labs, B Digital, Mocha Ventures, Art3 Foundation, Ghaf Capital Partners, Mix Media Network, Factor6 Capital Partners, and Enjinstarter, along with several prominent strategic angel investors. 88 accredited investors also participated in the round through Republic.com.

The startup aims to conclude its second closing of their Series A by early 2025.

The capital was raised at a post-money valuation of $80 million, supported by Daman Investments as an Advisory Partner and Seed Investor, and Republic Crypto as a Web3 Advisor.

Last month, myco reported its first profitable year, with an EBITDA of $1 million and revenue of $7.5 million for the 2023-24 fiscal year. 

“myco has already demonstrated its ability to scale in key markets, achieving exceptional metrics in user growth, retention, revenue, and community building. With this new capital, we plan to replicate our success by expanding into markets with similar demographics and strong regional partnerships.” Umair Masoom, Founder and Managing Director of myco, said.

myco’s live streaming division has secured major rights until 2025, including ICC and PSL Cricket Rights for Pakistan, all major cricketing rights for North America via Willow TV, and rights for the World Squash Federation and Egypt Squash Federation.

Additionally, myco holds English Premier League Rights for Pakistan and various sports rights like the Asian Hockey Championship and Brave MMA, along with leading e-sports streaming rights for games such as Counter-Strike 2, PUBG, and Valorant in the MENA region.

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