Microsoft has released updates to address 90 security vulnerabilities in Windows and associated software, including six actively exploited zero-day flaws. These updates impact several Microsoft products such as Office, .NET, Visual Studio, Azure, Teams, and Windows itself. Notably, the zero-day flaws involve local privilege escalation and remote code execution vulnerabilities in components like the Windows Kernel, Edge browser's Internet Explorer Mode, and Microsoft Project. Although complex, these flaws are being actively exploited, underscoring the importance of timely updates. Additionally, Adobe released security updates for 71 vulnerabilities across multiple products. Users are advised to update their systems but may consider waiting a few days post-release and backing up data to prevent potential disruptions. For detailed insights, resources like the SANS Internet Storm Center and Askwoody.com are recommended.

Six 0-Days Lead Microsoft’s August 2024 Patch Push krebsonsecurity

In this article, Jonny Evans discusses the potential for Apple to monetize its AI technologies, particularly in the realm of health and fitness. Analysts Neil Shah and Ben Wood suggest that advanced AI features might eventually be incorporated into Apple’s subscription services, like Apple One. Given Apple’s focus on user privacy and its extensive research and development in digital health tools—such as those found in the Apple Watch—there is significant potential for fee-based AI-augmented health and fitness services. Evans argues that AI’s ability to provide personalized and preventative health insights could be a major future revenue stream for Apple, supported by its robust ecosystem and privacy-centric approach.

Why health might be Apple’s AI profit center Computerworld

Walgreens is considering fully selling its stake in the unprofitable primary care chain VillageMD, reversing its previous commitment to expanding healthcare services. The company had invested over $6 billion in VillageMD, but persistent unprofitability and significant cash requirements prompted Walgreens to explore various strategic options, including a full divestiture. Despite efforts to restructure and close some VillageMD centers, the chain has not repaid its debts, leading to a forbearance agreement. This move aligns with Walgreens' broader strategy to streamline operations, which includes shedding other healthcare assets and closing underperforming stores amid a significant decline in stock value.

Walgreens considering full sale of VillageMD Healthcare Dive

In a recent HealthLeaders podcast, Dane Hudelson from Sanford Health discussed the health system's enterprise data and analytics department, established in 2015, and its AI strategy for improving revenue cycle and financial operations. Over the past 18 months, Sanford Health has implemented around 20 AI programs, saving approximately 7,500 hours of manual labor. These AI applications, although non-clinical, significantly streamline workflows, allowing clinical staff more time to focus on patient care. Hudelson highlighted the integral role of his diverse team of data analysts, whose work indirectly enhances patient care by optimizing operational efficiencies.

HealthLeaders Podcast: How Math Makes a Health System Run Smoothly HealthLeaders Media