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We chatting about the major implications of Spectre and Meltdown. Both of these vulnerabilities in computer security are critical to understand, both from a technical side and a user security side. Spectre and Meltdown tear at the fundamental core of how we build and operate our computing systems over the past twenty years. Amazon Go opened in Seattle with much praise and excitement, showing that a grocery store can function without checkout lines and workers. Microsoft is attempting to capitalize in the classroom by introducing new laptops for educators and students. The question remains – why are they so late and why are they so behind. Montana introduces the first ever state based net neutrality regulations for ISPs to follow, a first major step in protecting equal access to information, data, and services.
Why Spectre and Meltdown Are Critical to Understand
Google’s Project Zero found one of the largest vulnerabilities in central processing units (CPUs), a vulnerability that tears at the foundation of the basics of computing and computer security. With the ability to attack CPUs, every chip in every device over the past 20 years is susceptible to attack. Check out the four links provides below in Resources for additional details and readings. As news continues to roll in, this is what we know at the moment.
- Spectre targets process memory and Meltdown targets kernel memory
- Spectre breeches branch prediction; Meltdown intercepts speculative execution
- Such CPU design standards (i.e. prediction) are manufactured into every chip today
- JavaScript can be tricked into giving hacker user/password information
- Update your mobile devices, tablets, desktops, and browsers for security patches
Get In Line at Amazon Go – Sounds Funny
In December 2016, Amazon tested the waters by using technologies such as computer vision, sensor fusion, and more to open a store without workers and without checkout lines. After working on the concept and technology a bit more, Amazon Go is now officially open for business in Seattle.
- The 1,800 square foot store offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snack items
- Customers enter store, scan in their Amazon account, choose their items, and leave
- Amazon is beginning to redefine the shopping experience with this store concept
- The storefront is ideal in highly populated, highly dense regions of the United States
Microsoft Playing Check Up in Education
Ten years ago, Microsoft was so well positioned to dominate the classroom and educational spaces across the country. Their presence was felt in institutions, libraries, and classrooms. After failing to capitalize on introduce quality laptops and products, they are fighting to get back in the game with new Windows 10 laptops.
- The price point of $189 (100e) and $279 (300e) is attractive in the industry
- Microsoft struggles to keep future generations within a system of software and services
- Google Chromebooks and Google Classroom dominate with over 50% covered
- There’s always a place for Microsoft in the classroom but to what extent is the question
State-Based Net Neutrality Regulations Coming to Montana
The Democratic Governor of Montana, Steve Bullock, signed an executive order requiring Internet Service Providers (ISPs) under state contracts to adhere to net neutrality regulations moving forward. It’s a great start to a major movement across the tech industry to save equal access to information and data.
- The FCC’s decision to roll back Federal regulations prompted this move in Montana
- Montana has hundreds of contracts in place with ISP delivery service to state agencies
- This move protects rural schools, hospitals, universities, care centers, and more
- New York, Rhode Island, Washington, and other states are drafting new regulations too
Resources
Spectre and Meltdown Explained
Tech Giants Scramble for Patches
The Average Guy Podcast – Technical Breakdown
Intel Tells Users to Stop Deploying Spectre Patch
Microsoft challenges Chromebooks
Montana Introduces First State Specific Net Neutrality Rules
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WWDC 2017 And Pollution Data Collection
We kickoff the podcast by sharing some of the exciting announcements from WWDC, which includes a new iMac Pro, HomePod, and ARKit. Following up that discussion, we debate as to whether the lack of diversity in the top 5 tech firms is something to be bothered and worried about and whether it spells trouble in the near future. Next, we breakdown a case heading to the Supreme Court as they will decide how law enforcement may collect location data associated with criminal activity from a person’s smartphone. And finally, we share some cool details about collection air pollution data using Google Street View cars and how that approach is changing data and decisions.
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IT Stories And Windows 7 Nag
We share some personal IT stories that have shaped the beginning of our weeks and proudly support the men and women behind the scenes getting things up and running. Microsoft is attempting to modernize the voting system around the world with their new open source and free software called ElectionGuard. The art and enjoyment of magazines is fading away quickly and share why their place in today’s world still matters. Microsoft is also pushing out prompt messages letting users now to migrate to Windows 10 as support for Windows 7 support nears the end of life in January 2020. With Mother’s Day right around the corner, we share some technology related gift ideas that will surely bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones.
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DirecTV Now and Cyber Monday Issues
We dive into the inner working of AT&T’s newest streaming TV subscription service called DirecTV Now. DirecTV Now will offer traditional media content to new subscribers at a reasonable cost with fewer programming options. Black Friday and Cyber Monday are gone but the holiday season is still upon us. We share tips and tricks to stay safe online this shopping season. In addition, we share the story of Macy’s Black Friday fiasco. And finally, a transit authority in the Bay Area was hit by a ransomware attack that allowed riders to ride free for nearly one day and costs the authority $73,000.