Andrew Harris, a cybersecurity expert hired by Microsoft, discovered a significant flaw in Microsoft’s cloud login product in 2016, revealing a vulnerability that allowed attackers to impersonate legitimate users without raising alarms. Despite Harris’s repeated warnings, Microsoft delayed fixing the issue due to potential financial risks and concerns about losing a lucrative federal contract. The flaw was eventually exploited in the SolarWinds hack by Russian operatives, affecting federal agencies and other entities. Harris, frustrated by the company's inaction, left Microsoft and later publicly criticized the company’s handling of the flaw. Microsoft's security culture and business priorities were later scrutinized in light of these events, culminating in congressional testimony and delayed security measures.

Microsoft Refused to Fix Flaw Years Before SolarWinds Hack ProPublica

The article covers the most common passwords used by individuals in 2024, such as "123456" and "password," highlighting their vulnerability to hacking due to their simplicity. It provides a list of the top 50 frequently used passwords, explaining why such choices are insecure. The article also discusses the importance of creating strong, complex passwords and the role of password managers in safeguarding online accounts. To enhance password security, it suggests using a combination of letters, numbers, and special symbols. Additionally, it touches on the process of resetting passwords and the general risks associated with using easy-to-guess passwords.

50 Most Common Passwords List in 2024 publication

The article from The Mercury News reports on the decrease in tech sector salaries in Silicon Valley, which have fallen by 15%, representing the largest drop in the nation despite still being the highest in any metro area. Many workers, including Krista DeWeese, who has experienced multiple layoffs, struggle to meet the high cost of living. The job market has tightened, with about 40,000 positions cut since 2022, and salaries not keeping pace with inflation. This situation disproportionately affects women due to the persistent gender pay gap. Meanwhile, new graduates like Genevieve Richards find it challenging to secure jobs with adequate pay, leading some to seek opportunities abroad or in locations with lower living costs. The article notes a shift towards lower compensation packages in exchange for remote work flexibility, but this comes with increased competition. Despite these challenges, tech employment opportunities continue to grow across various industries.

Silicon Valley salaries are shrinking, leaving workers in the lurch The Mercury News

A proposed bill in California, AB 3129, could significantly impact the digital health sector, particularly for companies backed by private equity and venture capital. The legislation seeks to introduce a new review process by the Attorney General for transactions involving PE, hedge funds, and health facilities. Additionally, it aims to alter the investor relationship with medical practices by challenging the "captive PC" or "friendly PC" model, a long-standing structure that allows non-doctors to indirectly own medical practices via management companies. If passed, this bill could dismantle this model in California, affecting digital health investments and operations there, with potential implications for other states as well.

This proposed bill in California could have a big impact on digital health Second Opinion Media