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The latest software update for PS5 and PSVR 2 won't improve your console's performance, but it does add an important learning app

TechRadar News - Thu, 06/19/2025 - 05:51
  • A new software update for PS5 and PSVR 2 adds a free educational app all about climate change
  • The Climate Station app is now available and lets users explore the story of climate change through three acts
  • The app is part of Sony's commitment to the United Nations' Playing for the Planet Alliance campaign

Sony has released a new software update for the PlayStation 5 and PSVR 2, which introduces a new educational app.

Today, the company launched Climate Station, a free app for both consoles that raises awareness about climate change. It uses the latest gaming tech, including virtual reality, to allow users to view, interact with, and understand complex climate data to learn more about climate change.

This app is the latest project in Sony's commitment to the United Nations' Playing for the Planet Alliance campaign, which aims to bring gaming industry leaders together to work towards their sustainability goals.

"Whether you’re a curious explorer, a data detective, or just looking for something totally unique to dive into, this free app available today on PS5 and PSVR 2 is your gateway to understanding the forces shaping our world," said Dan Bardino Senior Director, Strategic Development and Operations, PlayStation Studios on PlayStation Blog.

Those with a 4K TV can view Climate Station with high-quality 4K visuals from the PlayStation 5, while PSVR 2 adds immersion by allowing users to view information in a first-person view.

The app tells the story of climate change through three acts: Weather Year, Observations, and Projections, and also offers an Explainer Library, which features 90 minutes of multi-media content for users to explore.

"Bringing climate awareness into the homes of millions through gaming will help build both knowledge and action to address the triple planetary crisis of climate change, nature and biodiversity loss, and pollution and waste," said Susan Gardner, Director of the Ecosystems Division, United Nations Environment Programme, in a press release.

"The approach to adapt the science into a game format has been impressive. We look forward to seeing how players react to this new tool and also recognise the leadership of Sony Interactive Entertainment in bringing climate science to consoles across the planet."

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Categories: Technology

Photos: How torn pictures and trusted herbs create healing in Colombia

NPR News Headlines - Thu, 06/19/2025 - 05:40

Conflict has sewn trauma in the western region of Colombia. Doctors Without Borders is working with local healers and health care professionals to come up with ways to help heal the psychic wounds.

(Image credit: Fernanda Pineda)

Categories: News

Israel vows to intensify attacks after Iranian missile hits major hospital

NPR News Headlines - Thu, 06/19/2025 - 05:32

Officials said they were still assessing "extensive damage" at a major hospital in southern Israel after it was struck by an Iranian missile early Thursday.

(Image credit: Leo Correa)

Categories: News

“$1,700 for a camera that’s not weather sealed?” Fujifilm fans lambast the new X-E5, but I think it’s a decent deal – here’s why

TechRadar News - Thu, 06/19/2025 - 05:30
  • In the US, the X-E5 costs twice the price of the X-E4 when it launched in 2021
  • X-E5 offers a number of improvements over its predecessor
  • The X-E4 remains on sale, if you can find it

It’s fair to say that the official reveal of the Fujifilm X-E5 has caused some consternation among fans of the brand. Starting at $1,699 / £1,299 body only, this compact mirrorless camera is a lot pricier than its predecessor, the Fujifilm X-E4, which cost just $850 / £799 when it arrived in 2021.

I’ll admit that it does seem a hefty sum to pay for a camera with no weather sealing and a dated, minuscule viewfinder. But as someone who reviews cameras day in, day out, I think the Fujifilm X-E5 represents pretty good value for money – at least on paper.

I’ve yet to actually get my hands on a Fujifilm X-E5 review sample (it’s coming though, so stay tuned for an in-depth review here very soon) but even from afar it’s clear that this camera is more expensive than the X-E4 for very justifiable reasons. And TechRadar's Cameras Editor Tim Coleman has his own take following a three day trip with the camera ahead of its launch – check out his X-E5 first thoughts.

First, the specs and features on offer in Fujifilm’s new camera far surpass those of the X-E4. To pick out the most obvious two upgrades: the X-E5 is built around a new-gen 40.2MP X-Trans CMOS 5 HR back-illuminated sensor that offers almost twice the resolution of the X-E4’s 26.1MP sensor; and it now comes with in-body five-axis sensor shift image stabilization (IBIS).

These enhancements, particularly the IBIS, should result in big improvements to image detail and sharpness, especially for handheld shooting. It can now also record 6.2K video, while the X-E4 topped out at 4K.

More metal, more money

The X-E5's all-metal top plate is naturally going to drive up its asking price. Trust me, it's lovely. (Image credit: Future / Tim Coleman)

The X-E5 is also the first camera in the X-E series to come with an all-metal top plate. Machined from a single block of aluminium, I’m certain this will make the X-E5 feel tougher and more luxurious than its predecessor. Yes – even if it’s not technically weather-sealed – which I’ll admit is a bit of a disappointment, particularly as Fujifilm is selling the camera in a kit with a new XF23mm f/2.8 pancake lens, which IS weather resistant.

I’ll also say that the tiny viewfinder could really have used an update. Incredibly, it actually appears to be the very same 0.39-inch, 2.36-million dot one as seen on the very first X-E series camera, the Fujifilm X-E1, which launched 13 years ago. It’s functional, yes – but as a photographer who much prefers composing shots with my eye pressed up against a viewfinder rather than looking at a screen, the bigger, brighter and crisper the viewfinder the better.

The LCD screen also appears to be a downgrade from other recent models – it's a 1.04m-dot unit rather than the 1.84m-dot utir lized by the the X-T50 and X100VI.

When talking about the price of the X-E5, particularly in the US, we must also acknowledge the impact of the Trump administration's tariffs, which has led to a situation where non-US manufacturers are naturally going to raise prices on their products. It's no secret that the X-E5 costs $200 more than it otherwise would have.

The X-E5 is available in black or silver and in a more cost effective bundle with the new XF 23mm f/2.8 WR lens. (Image credit: Future / Tim Coleman)

Even setting aside this tariff confusion, inflation has also bitten hard since 2021 – so it’s really not that surprising to see the X-E5 priced this way.

Finally, it seems that Fujifilm is set to keep the X-E4 in its current X Series line-up, if you can find it in stock, which means the company is still giving consumer the option to pick up an affordable rangefinder-style mirrorless camera if that’s what they need. While the X-E4 is certainly not without its drawbacks, it’s still a very serviceable interchangeable lens camera. It just now has a more advanced, better-constructed sibling for anyone who wants it.

Disagree with me and still think the X-E5 is far too pricey compared to its predecessor? Feel free to sound off in the comments below – but do remember to check back soon for a full and definitive review of Fujifilm's latest release.

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Categories: Technology

How Juneteenth and Black America helped shape U.S. cuisine

NPR News Headlines - Thu, 06/19/2025 - 05:30

Food and cooking play a big role in Juneteenth celebrations. The barbecues and fish fries woven into Black culture helped shape American cuisine.

(Image credit: Ben Abrams)

Categories: News

Starting a business? New study shows you really need to get on board with AI

TechRadar News - Thu, 06/19/2025 - 05:09
  • TeamViewer study finds SMBs already missing out from AI-driven productivity boosts
  • Most SMB leaders say they need more training
  • But AI investments are rising across the board

New research has revealed just how much prospective SMBs must get on board with artificial intelligence to grow and stand out in a highly competitive market.

A new TeamViewer study found more than one in four (28%) say rising operational costs from missed automation opportunities are already taking a toll.

Nearly half (47%) of the SMBs surveyed admitted they lack the infrastructure needed to scale AI tools, and almost all (95%) say they still require more training.

SMBs need AI to grow, but they're still unsure about it

Despite growing enthusiasm, confidence in managing AI remains poor, the study found

More than three-quarters (77%) of SMB leaders say they wouldn't even bet a week's salary on their organisation's ability to handle the risks associated with AI, such as data misuse or unauthorized tool access. Yet somehow, nearly the same number (72%) consider themselves AI experts.

As it stands, two in three (65%) say AI tools are only deployed in tightly controlled environments, with three in four (74%) feeling uneasy about data management vulnerabilities. Although AI plays a role in heightened risks, AI isn't entirely to blame – two in five (38%) agree that a lack of training is their main obstacle.

"SMBs are clearly motivated to embrace AI, but many are still searching for the right way to turn early adoption into lasting impact,” TeamViewer Director of Product Management Artus Rupalla explained.

The research also revealed SMBs are leading the way in terms of AI adoption across their workforces – but that doesn't always translate into frequent or mature use. Larger enterprises are generally seen to be using AI more frequently when it comes to daily and weekly measurements.

But despite current limitations, SMBs are betting on AI to drive future growth. Three in four plan to ramp up AI investments in the next 6-12 months, with 72% foreseeing major productivity boosts and 76% believing AI is essential for improving overall business performance.

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Categories: Technology

iOS 26 Finally Lets Us Get Rid of the Abomination That Is the 9-Minute Snooze

CNET News - Thu, 06/19/2025 - 05:00
Commentary: The alarm's nine-minute snooze is antiquated and belongs in the past.
Categories: Technology

Everything You Should Know About Enhanced Visual Search on Your iPhone

CNET News - Thu, 06/19/2025 - 05:00
I'll also show you how to disable this feature if you have privacy concerns.
Categories: Technology

Nooo! Samsung confirms it's 'considering' following Garmin by adding a premium subscription tier to its Health app

TechRadar News - Thu, 06/19/2025 - 04:34
  • Yes, Samsung is considering a premium subscription tier for Samsung Health
  • This is no rumor – it was confirmed in an interview with Samsung's Head of Digital Health
  • Advanced coaching features would be included free in new watches, while being locked behind a paywall for older models

In these cash-strapped times, none of us enjoy paying more than we have to. When our best streaming service prices go up, we grumble, even though more films and TV are added all the time.

Likewise, if we buy a device such as one of the best smartwatches, and previously we've been able to use all its features for free, we don't like being charged a monthly subscription for future ones.

Just ask Garmin users. There was an enormous outcry of vitriol and outrage from the brand's highly engaged userbase when Garmin introduced its premium tier, Garmin Connect+. Despite promising AI training insights, new LiveTrack abilities for endurance athletes and advanced ways to view your training metrics, the new tier was deemed not good enough for the cost – and especially given the best Garmin watches are sold at premium prices in the first place. The community was in uproar, but Garmin has not wavered, continuing with its plans.

Now, Samsung is in on the act. In an interview with CNet, Samsung's Head of Digital Health, Dr Hon Pak, confirmed it's "exploring a premium subscription model similar to Fitbit Premium or Garmin's new Connect Plus that requires a monthly subscription to unlock advanced coaching features."

This is bad news for Samsung Galaxy Watch owners, and even owners of the best Samsung phones or the Samsung Galaxy Ring. Any changes Samsung makes here will likely affect the Samsung Health app, so if you want any extra features Samsung decides to bring forward behind a paywall, you'll need to fork out for a premium tier.

Samsung hasn't yet revealed whether it's definitely going ahead, or how much it will cost: these kind of mid-interview slips are likely testing the waters, to see if an outcry as loud as Garmin's userbase will follow.

The writer of the original article goes on to suggest that Samsung might offer the features for free with its new watch, and make them available owners of older models for a fee, but there are no direct quotes from Pak or anyone at Samsung addressing that particular idea.

Just like Garmin Connect+, it's likely if this premium tier launches, many of the new features that would have come to your watches for free will land behind a paywall instead. This means there's a risk of 'feature creep' so that in a few years' time, all the features Samsung fans really want will be behind a paywall, forcing users to subscribe to avoid missing out.

To paraphrase Dune, it's the slow blade that penetrates the shield. Premium tiers are a way for companies to extract long-term revenue from users and subscribers, unlike launching a soon-to-be-obsolete tech product, which creates a temporary revenue spike.

Of course, no-one's saying you shouldn't pay a fair price for the features you use, and having your data sat around in a server, ready to be recalled at a moment's notice, costs companies money in the long term. Many of our best fitness apps require subscription costs, and we rate them highly.

However, when a wearables company offers a subscription tier, that money is recouped as long as you subscribe, as it's recurring revenue in addition to the one-time purchase of a watch. I can't shake the feeling that I'm paying twice: once for the privilege of having the watch collect my data, and once to have the data sold back to me in graph form. And however you choose to pay, be it one-off or recurring, I think you should only pay the once.

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Categories: Technology

Microsoft reportedly set to cut thousands of jobs, with sales roles particularly at risk

TechRadar News - Thu, 06/19/2025 - 04:28
  • Microsoft reportedly set to lay off thousands in its new fiscal year
  • Over 6,000 workers have already lost their jobs this calendar year
  • Revenue is up, and Microsoft's worth more than $3.5 trillion

Microsoft is preparing to cut thousands of jobs as part of its ongoing cost-cutting shakeup as the company continues to spend big on AI.

A new Bloomberg report says if confirmed, the layoffs could be announced in early July after the company's fourth quarter and fiscal year end on June 30, 2025.

Sales teams could be the worst affected, but the redundancies could span other departments as Microsoft looks to reduce employment-related expenses.

Microsoft set for more layoffs

The company has already cut thousands of workers off in these post-pandemic years.

In May 2025, it cut 6,000 of its workers, equating to around 3% of its roughly 228,000 headcount, in an effort to reduce inefficiencies by removing middle management tiers. A further 305 workers lost their jobs this month, with 14,000 roles affected in 2023 and 2024.

In April 2025, Microsoft said it would outsource sales to small and mid-sized customers to third-party firms – an indication of the changes believed to be coming as soon as next month.

Despite widespread job losses, Microsoft continues to perform well financially. Last quarter, it reported a 13% increase in revenue to $70.1 billion. It currently holds the title of the world's most valuable company, with a market cap of $3.569 trillion.

At the time, CFO Amy Hood stated that overall company headcount was 2% up year-over-year, but slightly down quarter-over-quarter, suggesting constant fluctuations.

TechRadar Pro has asked Microsoft to confirm plans to lay off workers after the current quarter draws to a close, but we did not receive an immediate response.

While highly disappointing for the company's workers, Microsoft employees aren't alone in facing job uncertainty. Key rivals like Amazon and Google have also been making regular adjustments to their headcounts to optimize costs and output.

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Categories: Technology

Planning to be outside on a hot day? Take these precautions

NPR News Headlines - Thu, 06/19/2025 - 04:00

People spend a lot of time outside during hot weather. Whether you're going to the beach, walking your dog or working your shift as a lifeguard, try these 7 proven ways to stay cool and prevent heat-related illness while outside.

(Image credit: Dajah Callen for NPR)

Categories: News

Despite new challenges, Juneteenth event organizers are unbowed

NPR News Headlines - Thu, 06/19/2025 - 04:00

Organizers of Juneteenth celebrations across the U.S. tell NPR how they're feeling this year. And NPR presents a reading of the Emancipation Proclamation.

(Image credit: Kayla Oaddams)

Categories: News

Inside a school that's working to fix the U.S. shortage of air traffic controllers

NPR News Headlines - Thu, 06/19/2025 - 04:00

Facing a severe shortage, the FAA is racing to hire thousands of air traffic controllers. But training them can take years. We visit a school in Florida that's trying to get them on the job faster.

(Image credit: Joel Rose)

Categories: News

Trump's VA cut a program that's saving vets' homes. Even Republicans have questions

NPR News Headlines - Thu, 06/19/2025 - 04:00

NPR has heard from more than 50 veterans around the country who are upset about the VA cutting a program that was helping vets avoid foreclosure. Veterans now have worse options than most Americans.

(Image credit: Brenda Bazán for NPR)

Categories: News

I am an AI expert and here's why quantum artificial intelligence is the next big thing in tech

TechRadar News - Thu, 06/19/2025 - 03:58

Quantum artificial intelligence is the fusion of quantum computing and artificial intelligence. It is poised to redefine what’s computationally possible and it’s closer to reality than many think.

The quantum technology market is rapidly expanding. Today, it's valued at around $35 billion, but forecasts estimate it could reach $1 trillion by 2030. That kind of explosive growth reflects not only the financial interest in quantum tech, but also its much anticipated capability.

In fact, a recent global survey by SAS of 500 business leaders across industries reinforces these projections as it found that interest in Quantum AI is very high, with more than 60% of respondents indicating they are actively investing or exploring opportunities in the technology.

Yet these business leaders also cited crucial barriers to adoption of Quantum AI. Among their top concerns were high cost (38%), lack of understanding or knowledge (35%), and uncertainty around practical, real-world uses (31%).

The survey results indicate that while interest in Quantum AI is on the rise, organizations need a clear roadmap and guide to better leverage this technology.

What is Quantum AI?

Quantum AI combines the power of quantum computing with artificial intelligence, leveraging the unique strengths of both fields to solve problems beyond the reach of classical systems.

At the heart of quantum computing are quantum bits, or qubits, which can exist in multiple states at once, known as superposition. This allows quantum computers to process vast amounts of information simultaneously, offering parallelism far beyond the capabilities of traditional, sequential computing.

When integrated with AI, which excels at data analysis, pattern recognition, and predictive modelling, the result is a powerful system capable of breakthroughs across industries. AI has already transformed fields like healthcare and finance, but its progress is limited by the constraints of classical computing.

Quantum AI also uses quantum algorithms to improve machine learning models. Quantum machine learning models, including quantum-enhanced support vector machines and neural networks, use quantum circuits to perform computations. These circuits form the foundations of quantum computing, representing a universal method for executing further operations.

In these neural networks, classical data is encoded into quantum states. Parameterized rotations, entanglements, and measurements allow the quantum circuit to explore complex relationships simultaneously. The resulting outputs are optimized classically and then cycled back into the quantum system, mimicking the iterative weight adjustment process seen in traditional neural networks.

A hybrid approach

Due to the current limitations of quantum hardware, Quantum AI is typically implemented as a hybrid process, combining quantum and classical computing. In some systems, quantum computation precedes classical post-processing, and in others, it's the reverse.

Many emerging approaches involve a cyclical interaction between the two. This hybrid architecture enables researchers to take advantage of quantum parallelism while relying on classical systems for stability, scalability, and optimization.

As quantum processors evolve, we are witnessing early stages of co-located quantum processing units (QPUs) and AI-specific units (AIUs) on shared platforms. This tighter integration signals a future where quantum and AI co-develop in increasingly intertwined ways, offering unprecedented performance and efficiency.

Real-world applications and opportunities

Researchers in healthcare are exploring the use of Quantum AI to streamline drug design and make the discovery of life-saving treatments faster and more cost-effective. In the financial services industry, quantum algorithms can process extremely complex financial data in unique ways and identify patterns that traditional computers might miss.

Quantum-enhanced AI systems can also manage supply chains with unmatched efficiency, or revolutionize the logistics industry by optimizing routes and inventory in ways that aren't computationally feasible today. Cybersecurity may experience one of the most dramatic shifts, as Quantum AI brings both risk and reward. For example, it could crack current encryption standards, but also create far more secure systems in their place.

This powerful convergence of quantum computing and artificial intelligence is not just convenient, but is a transformative leap that could fundamentally alter how we process data, solve problems, and envision the future.

At its core, Quantum AI draws from the very fabric of quantum mechanics, merging it with the adaptive learning and decision-making capabilities of AI.

Challenges ahead

The road to a Quantum AI future is far from smooth. In fact, one of the greatest challenges lies in the hardware itself, particularly as quantum computers are incredibly delicate.

Qubits are prone to decoherence, a process where their quantum state collapses due to interference from their environment. To maintain their integrity, these systems must be kept at temperatures near absolute zero, shielded from even the slightest vibrations or electromagnetic interference. This makes them not only expensive but also highly complex to maintain and operate.

On the software side, things are equally challenging as developing algorithms that can run on quantum systems while taking advantage of AI’s learning capabilities is an intricate task. It demands expertise across two highly specialized fields, quantum physics and machine learning, which are not often found together.

New programming languages, compilers, and development frameworks are being built from scratch, but we are still in the early stages of that journey.

Beyond the technical obstacles, there are also profound ethical questions to consider. As with AI, Quantum AI demands thoughtful deployment to prevent bias or misuse. Given its scale, responsible governance must be built in, not bolted on.

The sheer power that Quantum AI promises means it could become a tool of extraordinary benefit, or risk, depending on how it's governed, and important concerns should start to be addressed now and not after the technology is widely deployed.

A look ahead

What is clear, though, is that we are standing on the precipice of a technological revolution.

Quantum AI has the potential to reshape entire industries, challenge our current understanding of computation, and offer solutions to problems once thought insurmountable. But for all its promise, its success depends not just on innovation, but on collaboration between scientists, businesses, policymakers, and the public.

As quantum processors become more robust and AI algorithms more adaptable to quantum platforms, we will start to see the first wave of truly transformative applications.

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This article was produced as part of TechRadarPro's Expert Insights channel where we feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today. The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/news/submit-your-story-to-techradar-pro

Categories: Technology

Will the iPhone 17 Be Released This Fall? We're Tracking the Rumors

CNET News - Thu, 06/19/2025 - 03:55
Apple typically releases the new iPhone in September, but change may be in the air.
Categories: Technology

TikTok's Not Getting Banned, but These Apps Give It a Run for Its Money

CNET News - Thu, 06/19/2025 - 03:15
If the ban does go into effect, you still have options like Instagram Reels and Lemon8.
Categories: Technology

SpaceX rocket being tested in Texas explodes, but no injuries reported

NPR News Headlines - Thu, 06/19/2025 - 03:11

A SpaceX rocket being tested in Texas exploded Wednesday night, sending a dramatic fireball high into the sky. The company said the Starship "experienced a major anomaly."

(Image credit: Susan Walsh)

Categories: News

I am a cybersecurity expert and I predict UK retailers face a brutal summer of coordinated attacks—here's why

TechRadar News - Thu, 06/19/2025 - 02:51

The recent spate of cyberattacks targeting major UK retailers has sent shockwaves through the industry, exposing critical vulnerabilities in the sector's IT infrastructure. In just two weeks, high-profile brands including Marks & Spencer, Co-op, and Harrods have fallen victim to sophisticated attacks that have disrupted operations and potentially compromised sensitive data.

These incidents highlight a troubling pattern—threat actors are increasingly setting their sights on retail organizations, which represent lucrative targets due to their vast customer databases and the devastating operational impact of even brief outages. With millions in revenue lost and consumer trust at stake, these attacks serve as a stark warning that the retail sector must fundamentally rethink its approach to cybersecurity.

Security Nightmare Unfolds Across British High Street

The attack sequence began with Marks & Spencer falling victim to what appears to be a ransomware incident attributed to the notorious Scattered Spider group. The timing—over the busy Easter weekend—appeared deliberate, maximizing disruption when the retailer was least prepared to respond.

The consequences were immediate and severe—online ordering systems collapsed, click-and-collect services failed, and contactless payment gateways went offline. Some locations reported empty shelves as inventory management systems faltered, creating a visible manifestation of the digital chaos unfolding behind the scenes.

Within days, Co-op and Harrods reported similar security incidents, suggesting a coordinated campaign or the exploitation of common vulnerabilities across the sector. Co-op took the precautionary step of shutting down significant portions of its IT infrastructure, while Harrods restricted internet access across its operations. Though neither has confirmed the full extent of the breaches, the proximity of these incidents has raised alarms about a potentially systemic vulnerability being exploited.

The financial impact has already proven substantial, with M&S alone facing millions in lost revenue. Yet the long-term consequences—including potential exposure of customer data—may prove far more damaging to brand reputation and consumer trust.

The Industry & Community Responds

The severity of these attacks has prompted a coordinated response. The UK National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has emerged as the central coordinating body, working directly with security teams at M&S, Co-op, and Harrods to contain the damage and investigate attack vectors. The agency has simultaneously issued urgent, updated guidance to all retailers, emphasizing that these incidents likely represent a sector-wide threat rather than isolated cases.

Information sharing has become particularly important, with the NCSC working closely with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) and law enforcement to establish a unified response framework. Parliamentary committees have also stepped in, seeking assurances that adequate support is reaching affected businesses and that key lessons are being shared throughout the sector.

Industry experts have been blunt in their assessment—the retail sector can no longer afford complacency in cybersecurity matters. Legal and security professionals point to these incidents as evidence that modern attacks involve sophisticated reconnaissance, with threat actors often probing systems for months before launching their primary assault. The sector now faces pressure to fundamentally reconsider its approach to data governance, incident response, and customer transparency.

What Retailers Must Do—Strengthening Defenses Against Cyber Threats

With retail organizations clearly in the crosshairs of sophisticated threat actors, immediate action is essential. Based on security best practices and lessons from these incidents, retailers should implement the following protective measures:

Focus on external attack surfaces. The vast majority of breaches involve external actors exploiting internet-facing assets. Retailers must prioritize continuous monitoring of external systems, particularly ecommerce platforms, payment processing endpoints, and customer-facing applications that represent prime targets.

Implement comprehensive discovery. Security teams can't protect what they don't know exists. Discovery must span all business units, subsidiaries, and acquisitions, including cloud services, on-premise systems, and third-party integrations. Many retailers operate complex technological ecosystems with legacy systems and modern cloud computing infrastructure operating in parallel—each representing potential vulnerability points.

Test continuously, not periodically. The traditional approach of annual penetration testing is insufficient. Implement ongoing security testing across all exposed assets, including regular application security assessments and retail-specific security evaluations that account for the unique threats facing the sector.

Adopt risk-based prioritization. Not all vulnerabilities carry equal weight. Evaluate threats based on potential business impact rather than technical severity alone. Factors like customer data exposure, operational dependencies, and regulatory implications should guide remediation priorities.

Share intelligence broadly. Security isn't just an IT department concern. Integrate exposure management into existing business processes through automation and clear communication channels. Ensure findings reach relevant stakeholders from operations to customer service, creating a culture of security awareness.

These recent attacks are certainly a wake-up call for UK retailers, and other industries. Security can no longer be treated as an afterthought or compliance exercise, especially when sophisticated threat actors stand ready to capitalize on every vulnerability. With proper preparation and a proactive security posture, retailers can significantly reduce their risk profile and protect both operations and customer trust.

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This article was produced as part of TechRadarPro's Expert Insights channel where we feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today. The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/news/submit-your-story-to-techradar-pro

Categories: Technology

Erick is an 'extremely dangerous' Category 4 hurricane near Mexico's Pacific coast

NPR News Headlines - Thu, 06/19/2025 - 02:18

The major storm threatens to unleash destructive winds near where the eye crashes ashore, flash floods and a dangerous storm surge, forecasters said.

(Image credit: Fernando Llano)

Categories: News

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