From Australia: The latest in tech and innovation
In recent news, ransomware attacks remain a top concern, Aussie businesses lag in sustainability, and new research reveals leaders may be out of touch with their workforce.
Acer reportedly lobbed with $50M ransomware attack
Hardware vendor Acer is the latest company to be targeted with a ransomware attack. The attack is reportedly linked to the Microsoft Exchange exploit that took place in early March 2021. According to Microsoft, these chain of attacks begin with a bad actor gaining access to an Exchange server, either with stolen passwords or via the vulnerabilities, to appear as someone with appropriate access.
Telstra to make its international business a fourth subsidiary
After announcing its restructure late last year, Telstra is now set to expand on this by turning its international division into a fourth subsidiary. As stated in an ASX filing, the four subsidiaries of the Australian telecom giant will now sit under the umbrella of a new holding company called Telstra HoldCo.
‘Missing opportunities’: Australia ranks dead last among the top 50 economies for green spending in its pandemic recovery, new report reveals
According to a new report, Australia has been one of the top spenders on pandemic recovery initiatives, however, there has been minimal allocation of funds to green projects. The Oxford University Economic Recovery Project revealed Australia is “missing opportunities” and lagging behind other major economies.
NSW Artificial Intelligence Advisory Committee inaugural members named
The NSW Government has appointed 11 individuals to form the NSW Artificial Intelligence Advisory Committee that will play a role in the state’s use of the technology. Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello said the committee will advise on the use of AI for decision-making and service delivery, as well as provide counsel on AI ethics policies.
‘Urgent trends’ emerging in hybrid work
Major research into workplace trends one year on from COVID-19 reveals productivity has remained the same or increased for many employees, but it comes at a cost. Microsoft’s Work Trends Index shows 54 per cent of employees globally feel overworked, with the time they spend in meetings more than doubling. In contrast, 61 per cent of leaders say they’re “thriving” right now, compared to just 38 per cent of employees without decision-making authority.