Chinese Hackers Target Taiwan's Semiconductor Sector with Cobalt Strike, Custom Backdoors

Robert Keele Resigns from xAI Robert Keele has stepped down as head of legal at xAI after over a year, citing a desire to spend more time with his children. He noted a difference in worldviews with CEO Elon Musk, who has not commented on Keele's departure. Want More Context? 🔎

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman informed employees via Slack about a special one-time bonus for select researchers and engineers ahead of the GPT-5 launch, with payouts varying based on role. Approximately one-third of OpenAI's workforce is eligible, as the company faces intensified competition for AI talent, including poaching by Meta and xAI, amidst expectations of a significant increase in company valuation. Want More Context? 🔎

On Thursday, the Trump administration issued an executive order asserting political control over federal grant funding, requiring that funding announcements and individual grants be approved by political appointees, who may lack relevant expertise. This order allows for the cancellation of grants and halts new funding programs until agencies comply, effectively undermining the independence of scientific research in the U.S. Want More Context? 🔎

Researchers in the Netherlands discovered a backdoor in an encryption algorithm used in radios for critical infrastructure, making communications vulnerable to eavesdropping. Their 2023 findings revealed that an end-to-end encryption solution recommended by ETSI also has vulnerabilities, as it compresses a 128-bit key to 56 bits, raising security concerns, particularly for law enforcement and national security users. Want More Context? 🔎

The Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid, priced at $239,000, is the most powerful variant yet, boasting a 591 hp 4.0 L V8 engine with enhanced turbochargers and advanced valve timing for improved efficiency. This car exemplifies the ongoing competition among German automakers to create the ultimate high-performance sedan suited for the unrestricted Autobahn. Want More Context? 🔎

China's leading solar companies, including Longi Green Energy and Jinko Solar, collectively reduced their workforces by 31% last year, shedding around 87,000 jobs due to falling prices and losses amid intense competition and overcapacity. The solar industry faces challenges as it produces twice the number of panels needed globally, contributing to the economic strain. Want More Context? 🔎