It’s been reported that iOS 17’s new NameDrop feature has prompted the Police to issue warnings to parents on social media (in the US) about its potential to be abused, possibly posing a risk to their children.

NameDrop, introduced with iOS 17.1 in November allows those with iPhones and Apple Watches running watchOS 10.1 to share their contact information, (plus photos and more with AirDrop) simply by holding their phones close together (within a few millimetres).

Police in several US states have issued warnings that this feature could, therefore, enable predators to use NameDrop to steal personal contact information from unsuspecting teens just by placing their phone next to the teen’s phone.

The Police also highlighted the fact that for protection, the feature can be turned off by going to settings, selecting AirDrop, selecting “Bringing Devices Together,” and then moving the toggle to off. There is also a ‘Contacts Ony’ option which means that only someone on the iPhone’s contact list can connect through AirDrop and NameDrop.

Researchers from cyber security firm Hunters have reported finding a Google Workspace design flaw that could allow attackers to steal emails from Gmail, data from Google Drive, and carry out other unauthorised actions within Google Workspace APIs on all of the identities in a target domain.

The design flaw (a fact reportedly disputed by Google), dubbed ‘DeleFriend,’ can be exploited by a process that involves attackers being able to leverage an existing domain-wide delegation permission to create their own fresh private key to perform API calls to Google Workspace on behalf of other identities in the domain.

It’s been reported that the Workspace domain-wide delegation feature’s potential “security risk” has been known to Google since June. Palo Alto Networks Unit 42 suggest that a way to mitigate the risk is to position service accounts with domain delegation permissions within a higher-level folder in the Google Cloud Platform (GCP) hierarchy.

Researchers at North Carolina State University in the US have developed a new dynamic window material that can tune out certain wavelengths of light and block heat to suit the conditions.

Three Modes Now Possible 

The Dynamic window glass can be used to switch windows between three modes: transparent, or “normal” windows, windows that block infrared light (helping to keep a building cool), and tinted windows that control glare while maintaining the view. This three-mode option is a step forward from existing dynamic windows based on electrochromism (using an electric stimulus to change opacity) which can only switch between clear or dark modes.

Water Is The Key

The researchers report that it’s the binding of water within the crystalline structure of tungsten oxide (forming tungsten oxide hydrate) that allows the window material to exhibit a previously unknown behaviour whereby it can be tuned to three modes.

How Does It Work? 

To summarise how and why it works:

Transparent tungsten oxides have long been used in dynamic windows by using an electrical signal and injecting lithium ions and electrons into the material to make it dark and block light.

The new research, however, showed that adding water to the crystalline structure of tungsten oxide hydrate (a substance related to tungsten oxide that can accommodate more lithium ions) makes its structure less dense. This makes it more resistant to deformation when lithium ions and electrons are injected into it, thereby enabling it to have two modes. The first is a “heat blocking” mode (the cool mode), allowing visible wavelengths of light to pass through, but blocking infrared light. The second, (which happens after more lithium ions and electrons are injected), is a dark mode, which blocks out both visible and infrared wavelengths of light.

Delia Milliron, co-corresponding author of the paper about the research said: “The discovery of dual-band (infrared and visible) light control in a single material that’s already well-known to the smart windows community may accelerate development of commercial products with enhanced features”. She also highlighted the potential wider implications of the discovery, saying: “The unforeseen role of structural water in producing distinctive electrochemical properties may inspire the research community beyond smart window developers, leading to innovation in energy storage and conversion materials.”

Why Have Dynamic / Smart Windows Anyway? 

Dynamic windows, or smart windows, offer several benefits. For example:

– Energy efficiency. They reduce energy consumption by controlling heat and light entry, leading to lower heating and cooling costs.

– Comfort and productivity. By managing glare and natural light, they create a more comfortable environment, enhancing productivity in workplaces and schools.

– UV protection. These windows block harmful UV rays, protecting interiors and occupants from sun damage.

– Privacy and security. Their adjustable opacity offers privacy and added security without the need for blinds or curtains.

– Aesthetic and design flexibility. They provide architects with more design options, allowing for large glass surfaces without excessive heat gain or loss.

– Environmental impact. By reducing reliance on artificial lighting and climate control, they help lower a building’s carbon footprint.

– Health benefits. Optimal natural light exposure improves mood and sleep patterns.

Overall, dynamic windows offer a combination of energy savings, comfort, aesthetic appeal, and environmental sustainability.

What Does This Mean For Your Organisation? 

This breakthrough in dynamic window technology may have significant implications for organisations across a spectrum of industries because it offers a dual benefit of enhanced building design and energy efficiency. Organisations may now leverage windows that automatically adjust to changing light and temperature, thereby optimising internal environments while reducing reliance on artificial climate control. This could not only improve energy efficiency, but also potentially lower operational costs related to heating, cooling, and lighting. What’s also special about this discovery is that it uses an already known technology, but dramatically improves it by using a cheap and abundant addition – water.

Environmentally, this technology aligns with sustainability objectives, i.e. contributing substantially to lowering energy consumption by reducing the need for artificial lighting and air conditioning. This innovation could, therefore, be a step forward for organisations aiming to reduce their carbon footprint and champion environmental stewardship.

The potential impact on occupants’ well-being is also worth noting. The ability of these windows to control glare while maintaining clear visibility could enhance comfort in workplaces and educational settings. Natural light is known to improve mood and productivity, suggesting that this innovation could lead to better work and learning environments.

From an architectural standpoint, this technology offers new creative possibilities. Designers can now incorporate large glass structures without compromising energy efficiency or internal comfort. This not only expands design options but may also enhance the aesthetic value of buildings.

The broader implications of this technology, as pointed out by researcher Delia Milliron, extend beyond smart windows to potentially influence areas like energy storage and conversion. This suggests that organisations within these sectors should be attentive to subsequent developments that might emerge.

Also, while the initial implementation of this technology might require investment, the long-term benefits are substantial. Lowered energy costs, increased property value, and alignment with sustainable trends present a strong economic and strategic case for the technology. For organisations looking to position themselves as progressive and environmentally conscious, this technology could significantly enhance their market presence and public perception.

This new dynamic window material may be more than just an advancement in smart windows, and could provide a gateway to greater energy efficiency, environmental responsibility, improved occupant comfort, architectural innovation, and a broader and beneficial technological impact.

A new report from ID Verification Company Onfido shows that the availability of cheap generative AI tools has led to Deepfake fraud attempts increasing by 3,000 per cent (specifically, a factor of 31) in 2023.

Free And Cheap AI Tools

Although deepfakes have now been around for several years, as the report points out, deepfake fraud has become significantly easier and more accessible due to the widespread availability of free and cheap generative AI tools. In simple terms, these tools have democratised the ability to create hyper-realistic fake images and videos, which were once only possible for those with advanced technical skills and access to expensive software.

Prior to the public availability of AI tools, for example, creating a convincing fake video or image required a deep understanding of computer graphics and access to high-end, often costly, software (a barrier to entry for would-be deep-fakers).

Document and Biometric Fraud – The New Frontier

The Onfido data reveals a worrying trend in that while physical counterfeits are still prevalent, there’s a notable shift towards digital manipulation of documents and biometrics, facilitated by the availability and sophistication of AI tools. Fraudsters are not only altering documents digitally but also exploiting biometric verification systems through deepfakes and other AI-assisted methods. The Onfido report highlights a dramatic rise in the rate of biometric fraud, which doubled from 2022 to 2023.

Deepfakes – A Growing Threat

As reinforced by the findings of the report, deepfakes pose an emerging and significant threat, particularly in biometric verification. The accessibility of generative AI and face-swap apps has made the creation of deepfakes easier and highly scalable, which is evidenced by a 31X increase in deepfake attempts in 2023 compared to the previous year!

Minimum Effort (And Cost) For Maximum Return

As the Onfido report points out, simple ‘face swapping’ apps (i.e. apps which leverage advanced AI algorithms to seamlessly superimpose one person’s face onto another in photos or videos) offer ease of use and effectiveness in creating convincing fake identities. They are part of an influx of readily available online AI assisted tools that are providing fraudsters with a new avenue into biometric fraud. For example, the Onfido data shows that Biometric fraud attempts are clearly higher this year than in previous years with fraudsters favouring tools like the face-swapping apps to target selfie biometric checks and create fake identities.

The kind of fakes these cheap, easy apps create have been dubbed “cheapfakes” and this conforms with something that’s long been known about online fraudsters and cyber criminals – they seek methods that require minimum effort, minimum expense and minimum personal risk, yet deliver maximum effect.

Sector-Specific Impact of Deepfakes

The Identity Fraud Report shows that (perhaps obviously) the gambling and financial sectors in particular are facing the brunt of these sophisticated fraud attempts. The lure of cash rewards and high-value transactions in these sectors makes them attractive targets for deepfake-driven frauds. In the gambling industry, for example, fraudsters may be particularly attracted to the sign-up and referral bonuses. In the financial industry, where frauds tend to be based around money laundering and loan theft, Onfido reports that digital attacks are easy to scale, especially when incorporating AI tools.

Implications For UK Businesses In The Age of (AI) Deepfake-Driven Fraud

The surge in deepfake-driven fraud highlighted by the somewhat startling statistics in Onfido’s 2024 Identity Fraud Report, suggest that UK businesses navigating this new landscape may require a multifaceted approach. This could be achieved by balancing the implementation of cutting-edge technologies with heightened awareness and strategic planning. In more detail, this could involve:

– UK businesses prioritising the reinforcement of their identity verification processes. The traditional methods may no longer suffice against the sophistication of deepfakes. Therefore, Adopting AI-powered solutions that are specifically designed to detect and counter deepfake attempts could be the way forward. This could work as long as such systems can keep up with the advancements in fraudulent techniques (more advanced techniques may emerge as more AI sophisticated AI tools emerge).

– The training of staff, i.e. educating them about the nature of deepfakes and how they can be used to perpetrate fraud. This could empower employees to better recognise potential threats and respond appropriately, particularly in sectors like customer service and security, where human judgment plays a key role.

– Maintaining customer trust. UK businesses must navigate the fine line between implementing robust security measures and ensuring a frictionless customer experience. Transparent communication about the security measures in place and how they protect customer data can help in maintaining and even enhancing customer trust.

– As the use of deepfakes in fraud rises, regulatory bodies may introduce new compliance requirements and UK businesses will need to ensure that they stay abreast of these changes both to protect customers and remain compliant with legal standards. This in turn could require more rigorous data protection protocols or mandatory reporting of deepfake-related breaches.

– Collaboration with industry peers and participation in broader discussions about combating deepfake fraud may also be a way to gain valuable insights. Sharing knowledge and strategies, for example, could help in developing industry-wide best practices. Also, partnerships with technology providers specialising in AI and fraud detection could offer access to the latest tools and expertise.

– Since deepfake fraud may be an ongoing threat, long-term strategic planning may be essential. This perspective could be integrated into long-term business strategies, thereby (hopefully) making sure that resources are available and allocated not just for immediate solutions but also for future-proofing against evolving digital threats.

What Else Can Businesses Do To Combat Threats Like AI-Generated Deepfakes?

Other ways that businesses can contribute to the necessary comprehensive approach to tackling the AI-generated deepfake threat may also include:

– Implementing biometric verification technologies that require live interactions (so-called ‘liveness solutions’), such as head movements, which are difficult for deepfakes to replicate.

– The use of SDKs (platform-specific building tools for developers) over APIs. For example, SDKs provide better protection against fraudulent submissions as they incorporate live capture and device integrity checks.

The Dual Nature Of Generative AI

Although, as you’d expect an ‘Identity Fraud Report’ to do, the Onfido report focuses solely on the threats posed by AI, it’s important to remember that AI tools can be used by all businesses to add value, save time, improve productivity, get more creative, and to defend against the AI threats. AI-driven verification tools, for example, are becoming more adept at detecting and preventing fraud, underscoring the technology’s dual nature as both a tool for fraudsters and a shield for businesses.

What Does This Mean For Your Business?

Tempering the reading of the startling stats in the report with the knowledge that Onfido is selling its own deepfake (liveness) detection solution and SDKs, it still paints a rather worrying picture for businesses. That said, The Onfido 2024 Identity Fraud Report’s findings, highlighting a 3000 per cent increase in deepfake fraud attempts due to readily available generative AI tools, signal a pivotal shift in the landscape of online fraud. This shift could pose new challenges for UK businesses but also open avenues for innovative solutions.

For businesses, the immediate response may involve upgrading identity verification processes with AI-powered solutions tailored to detect and counter deepfakes. However, it’s not just about deploying advanced technology. It’s also about ensuring these systems evolve with the fraudsters’ tactics. Equally crucial is the role of employee training in recognising and responding to these sophisticated fraud attempts.

As regulatory landscapes adjust to these emerging threats, staying informed and compliant is also likely to become essential. The goal is not only to counter current threats but to build resilience and innovation for future challenges.

With Microsoft’s Copilot AI assistant now embedded within the Microsoft 365 apps and services to help users save time and increase productivity, we look at a dozen things you can do with Copilot to help your business.

Microsoft 365 Copilot

Copilot fuses ChatGPT version 4 and Microsoft Graph. More specifically, Copilot is designed to integrate the capabilities of ChatGPT version 4 (a sophisticated language model developed by OpenAI), with the extensive data and connectivity provided by Microsoft Graph.

Microsoft Graph is an API platform that enables developers to access and integrate data and insights from various Microsoft services and applications, such as Office 365, Windows 10, and Enterprise Mobility + Security, facilitating the creation of rich, interconnected applications within the Microsoft ecosystem.

This integration allows Copilot to leverage the conversational AI capabilities of ChatGPT in conjunction with the rich data ecosystem of Microsoft 365, enhancing productivity and offering more advanced features within Microsoft’s suite of applications.

Microsoft says Copilot can increase an employee’s productivity by as much as 50 per cent and that it can unlock the other 90 per cent of things that its apps can do that most users never try.

A Dozen Ways Copilot Can Help

With this in mind, here are a dozen ways that you can use Copilot to help with your business:

1. Automating Customer Service Responses

Copilot can manage routine customer service queries by providing instant, accurate responses to FAQs. This helps by reducing wait times and improving customer satisfaction. It can also act as a way to identify and escalate the more complex issues to human representatives, ensuring a balance between efficiency and having a personal touch.

2. Generating Reports and Summaries

Microsoft 365 Copilot can also analyse large sets of data to generate detailed reports and executive summaries. This can be really helpful in identifying key metrics and trends, which are essential for strategic planning and decision-making, without the need for manual data crunching. This is an important way that Copilot can save time and effort and add more transparency to a business.

3. Drafting and Editing All Manner Of Business Documents

Copilot assists in creating professional business documents, emails, and presentations. It offers suggestions on content, structure, and style, ensuring that the documents are not only well-written but also tailored to their intended audience. Again, this can save time and improve productivity but also improve the quality of business communications.

4. Data Analysis and Insights

By analysing complex datasets, Copilot can uncover valuable insights, helping businesses understand customer behaviour, market trends, and operational efficiency. This leads to more informed decision-making and strategy development.

5. Scheduling and Calendar Management

It streamlines calendar management by scheduling meetings, appointments, and events based on your availability. It can also send automated reminders and updates, ensuring efficient time management and reducing scheduling conflicts.

6. Training and Educational Resources

Copilot can create custom training materials and educational content that are specifically tailored to a company’s processes and systems. This can help in onboarding new employees more efficiently and keeping the workforce updated on new tools and practices. This can, of course, also save money on training and potentially improve the efficiency of training (because it can be more targeted and customised).

7. Automating Routine Tasks

For tasks like data entry, inventory management, and basic accounting, Copilot can automate these processes, thereby reducing the risk of human error and allowing employees to focus on more strategic and creative tasks.

8. Language Translation and Localisation

Microsoft Copilot can also be used to facilitate global business operations by translating documents and communications into various languages, ensuring that businesses can effectively communicate with international clients and partners.

9. Market Research and Analysis

Copilot can scour the internet and various databases to conduct market research, analyse industry trends, and provide actionable insights, helping businesses stay ahead in their market.

10. Social Media Management

Copilot can also help with creating, scheduling, and analysing social media posts. Copilot can also track engagement metrics, thereby helping businesses understand their audience better and refine their social media strategies.

11. Project Management Assistance

Microsoft 365 Copilot can also help with tracking project milestones, resource allocation, and progress updates. This can ensure that projects stay on track, resources are efficiently used, and stakeholders are kept informed.

12. Legal and Compliance Documentation

One other really helpful aspect of Copilot is that it can assist in drafting legal documents and ensure that business operations comply with relevant laws and regulations. This is crucial for mitigating legal risks and maintaining a company’s reputation.

What Does This Mean For Your Business?

The integration of Microsoft’s Copilot AI into the Microsoft 365 suite is a significant advancement for 365 and for business technology generally. With Copilot embedded in popular 365 apps, businesses now have a powerful ‘always on’ tool at their disposal to help with productivity, efficiency, creativity, adding value, and more. As such, this integration goes beyond mere convenience, and it taps into the unrealised potential of Microsoft 365, unlocking functionalities that many users have yet to explore, i.e. it can help businesses to leverage (and get more out of) what they’re already paying for from Microsoft.

By being able to quickly and easily automate tasks, e.g. from customer service to complex data analysis, Copilot not only saves time but also enhances creativity and leaves employees free to focus on more strategic and innovative tasks, thereby elevating the quality of work and driving business growth. Also, Copilot’s intuitive, natural language capabilities, akin to those of ChatGPT version 4, make it a user-friendly assistant that can simplify complex tasks and make technology more accessible to everyone in the organisation.

Copilot, therefore, serves as a tool for upskilling employees. It exposes them to a broader range of Microsoft 365 capabilities, fostering a deeper understanding and more efficient use of the software. This aspect of Copilot is particularly valuable as it achieves upskilling organically, without the need for additional training resources. It could be said that Copilot is not just enhancing productivity, but it’s also expanding the technological proficiency of the entire workforce.

For businesses, in addition to streamlining operations, Copilot can also help deliver a competitive edge e.g., the insights gleaned from Copilot’s data analysis and market research capabilities can inform strategic decisions, offering a clearer view of market trends and customer behaviours. Its ability to handle language translations and ensure compliance with legal standards positions businesses for global reach and operational safety may also be of real use for many businesses.

Microsoft 365 Copilot, therefore, is more than an incremental update to business software, but could prove to a transformative tool that can significantly enhance how businesses operate (if businesses make sure they use it). The rewards for using what is a comprehensive, and relatively easy-to-use solution that unlocks the power of the 365 apps could be to propel your businesses into a new era of efficiency and innovation.