Google to destroy billions of records of data as part of lawsuit settlement
Google is set to destroy billions of records of data as part of lawsuit settlement that accused it of tracking users browsing the internet using Google Chrome despite them being in private mode. According to reports, the lawsuit alleged that Google’s parent company, Alphabet, was able to track people using the Chrome browser’s “incognito” and “private” browsing modes through cookies, analytics and other applications.
Hardening Australia’s northern air bases
Australia urgently needs to fortify its northern air force bases to withstand missile attacks and ensure quick recovery. This involves dispersing aircraft to civil airfields and enhancing base infrastructure like fuel storage and security. While awaiting protective systems, prioritizing cost-effective measures like hardening and dispersal is crucial for preserving the modestly sized air force during conflicts.
Chinese innovation, regulation and AI
This interview delves into China's tech crackdown, highlighting its impact on market dynamics, investor confidence, and investment patterns. It suggests earlier intervention to address monopoly concerns and warns of risks associated with a lenient approach to AI regulation. Additionally, it discusses the role of Chinese tech firms in self-regulation and examines the unintended consequences of government policies aimed at addressing inequality. Finally, it explores how regulatory trends in the US and EU may influence tech governance in China.
Emerging Technology and Risk Analysis: Artificial Intelligence and Critical Infrastructure
This report is one in a series of analyses on the effects of emerging technologies on U.S. Department of Homeland Security missions and capabilities. In this report, authors use their technology and risk assessment methodology to assess the risks that artificial intelligence–enabled critical infrastructure will face in the next ten years, drawing on literature on smart cities.
ASEAN: Annual Survey Shows Turn in Favor of China
The 2024 State of Southeast Asia Survey reveals that slightly over half of respondents now prefer to partner with China over the United States, marking an 11.6% increase since 2023. Despite this shift, 50.1% of respondents still express skepticism toward China, citing concerns about its potential economic and military coercion. This sentiment shift is attributed to discontent over U.S. policy in the Middle East, particularly among Muslim-majority countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam, and Laos, amid the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Australian digital ID bill finally passes the Senate
The Australian Senate passed a Digital ID Bill on March 28 aiming to establish Australia’s first digital identity scheme. The scheme, voluntary in nature, is set to enhance privacy, consumer protection, and governance by enabling individuals to verify their identity across various entities without repeatedly sharing personal information.