Meet Your New Storyteller

Hey, It's Hailey here.

Today, I want to share an incredible adventure that combines the thrill of sailing with the magic of discovery.

So, grab a cup of coffee and let’s dive into this tale of exploration and camaraderie.

Picture this: arriving by inflatable dinghy at the stone steps of a wild and remote bay on the enchanting island of Sark.

That moment was the highlight of our journey, where the real adventure began.

We set sail from Hamble on a beautiful evening, with calm seas and gentle winds.

The crew was buzzing with excitement as we hoisted the sails and navigated past the Needles into the Channel.

Our watches were set—three hours on, three hours off—guided by starlight on a cool, wonderful night.

Sailing south at a steady seven knots felt like heaven, and I was rocked to sleep until the morning light.

As we approached the Cherbourg Peninsula, our focus was on three essentials: lighthouses, cardinals, and, of course, bacon sandwiches with coffee.

Our all-male crew of six, a mix of seasoned sailors and eager novices like myself, worked seamlessly together.

Under Martin’s guidance, we unfurled the spinnaker, and our bright pink sail propelled us towards Guernsey, reaching speeds of 13 knots at one point.

Arriving in St. Peter Port was another unforgettable moment.

The sunshine, yachts, and good company made for a perfect mix, enhanced by the shared stories from our flotilla of three boats.

As Pure Magic joined us, the party truly began.

Fast forward through our evening in Guernsey, with hot showers, delicious meals, and a glimpse of the island’s impressive tidal range.

But it was Sark that truly captured our hearts.

This tiny, brooding island seemed to exist in a time warp.

We moored in a sheltered bay beneath dramatic cliffs, enjoying smoked salmon, fine wine, and Mediterranean-esque scenery.

We left behind emails, meetings, and the hustle of daily life as we prepared to explore the island.

Our walk across Sark, with its lack of roads and traffic, felt like stepping back in time.

Elizabeth, our delightful host at La Sablonnerie restaurant, welcomed us warmly, inviting us for sloe gin after our meal.

Lobster, crab, and prawns were devoured before we returned to our boats, navigating the dark with laughter and camaraderie.

We loved Sark so much that we decided to stay an extra day, free from the constraints of schedules and costs.

The island, with its 400 inhabitants, sandy tracks, and spring flowers, felt like a charming, simple world locked in time.

It’s a place you must experience, right up there with Petra, the Grand Canyon, and Angkor Wat.

Our journey back was equally thrilling, with an evening departure over flat seas and light winds.

A black night threatened storms but spared us, and we raced against Pure Magic towards Christchurch Bay.

Clever tactics and teamwork brought us close, but Magic managed to stay just out of reach.

After logging 280 miles, we returned with a treasure trove of memories and a longing for more adventures.

So, where to next? Perhaps the West Coast of Ireland? Stay tuned for more stories and insights, and remember, the world is full of magic waiting to be discovered.

Until next time, keep dreaming big and sailing towards your goals!

Hey there, tech enthusiasts! It's Hailey here, your go-to guide for all things tech and startup wisdom.

Today, I stumbled upon an insightful blog post by Mike Polatsek, that I just had to share with you all.

Mike, the CEO at CybeReady, dives into the world of cyber threats, specifically focusing on the differences between smishing and phishing.

So, let's unravel this together and arm ourselves with the knowledge to stay safe in our digital journeys.

First off, Mike introduces us to the concept of smishing.

If you've ever received a mysterious text from an unknown number simply saying "Hello," you might have encountered a smishing attempt.

These are SMS phishing attacks that trick mobile users into visiting fake websites, where their personal information can be stolen.

Shockingly, less than 35 percent of people are aware of what smishing even is.

But fear not, because by the end of this discussion, you'll be well-equipped to identify and avoid these sneaky attacks.

Now, let's talk about phishing.

Mike explains that phishing is a broader cyber attack strategy where attackers use fraudulent tactics to manipulate individuals into revealing sensitive information.

These attacks often mimic trusted organizations to gain the victim's trust.

There are several types of phishing attacks, including email phishing, spear phishing, whaling, and vishing.

Each type targets victims in unique ways, from sending deceptive emails to impersonating trusted contacts over the phone.

The objectives of phishing attacks are clear: attackers aim to exploit sensitive information for personal gain.

This can include stealing personal identifiable information, financial credentials, corporate data, or account login details.

It's a serious threat that can lead to identity theft, financial fraud, and unauthorized access to personal or corporate accounts.

Smishing, on the other hand, specifically targets individuals through text messages.

These attacks use social engineering techniques to exploit human vulnerabilities, often appearing to come from trusted sources like banks or government agencies.

The messages are crafted to create a sense of urgency, prompting recipients to act quickly, which can lead to disastrous consequences.

Mike outlines several types of smishing attacks, such as malicious link messages, prize or lottery scams, financial scams, and urgent or emergency messages.

Each type is designed to deceive victims into revealing sensitive information or clicking on harmful links.

Despite their different delivery methods, smishing and phishing share similar objectives and tactics.

Both rely heavily on social engineering to manipulate victims into divulging information.

They exploit human trust and urgency, often impersonating trusted entities to achieve their goals.

Whether targeting individuals or organizations, the ultimate aim is to gain unauthorized access to valuable data.

So, how can we protect ourselves and our organizations from these threats? Mike suggests several preventive measures.

First, always be vigilant and skeptical of messages requesting personal information or urging immediate action.

Verify the sender's identity before responding or clicking on any links.

Enabling two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts.

Educating yourself and your employees about these threats is crucial, and investing in comprehensive cybersecurity awareness training can make a significant difference.

Keeping your devices and software updated is another essential step, as it ensures you have the latest security measures in place.

Installing reputable antivirus and anti-malware software can help detect and block malicious software, including those distributed through smishing and phishing attacks.

In a world where cyber threats are constantly evolving, staying informed and proactive is key.

By understanding the risks and implementing preventive measures, we can significantly enhance our defenses against these malicious tactics.

Mike's insights remind us of the importance of fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness within our organizations.

So, let's take action today! Equip yourself and your team with the tools and knowledge needed to counter smishing and phishing attacks.

Remember, staying one step ahead of cyber threats is crucial for protecting your security and reputation.

Thanks to Mike Polatsek for shedding light on this important topic.

Until next time, stay curious and stay safe in the digital world!

Welcome to the surge of new subscribers that joined us this week. I am very honoured to have you here. In my Sunday essay, I study the way that humans interact with each other. I am an investor and an entrepreneur. However, I have learned that trying to understand trends in money flow and markets before understanding human nature puts the cart before the horse. Human nature is the cause of macroeconomics, geopolitics, and finance. All of this occurs as a consequence of how humans are with each other. So, every Sunday, we spend some time discussing our behaviour. If I have a secondary mission with this letter, it is to challenge any and all absolute truths and dispute all common narratives. I lean on history, culture, philosophy and psychology for lessons on the past and present. I love writing it. Let's jump in. Last week, a headline about a youth arrested for a hit and run accident caught my eye. Allegedly, he had hit a bicyclist while driving a car and sped away. The bicyclist died from his injuries. The incident was caught on camera. After apprehension, the youth in question made some callous statements and demonstrated an offensive lack of remorse. He was allegedly goading the police officers who detained him; he shrugged off the victim's death and stated that because he was a minor, a hit and run would get him a 'slap on the wrist.' He would be back on the street in no time. His statements in the context of an innocent man losing his life were vile,no question about it. The conversation and comments surrounding the story were filled with outrage, justifiably. Many called for a Hamurabi's Code punishment an eye for an eye. I am no saint. I can be quick to judge and am often blind to my own biases. But I looked at the picture of this 16 year old kid and tried to ask myself some questions.

The concept of artificial intelligence has evolved significantly over the decades, transforming from a mere scientific curiosity into a fundamental force reshaping our world. In its early days, AI was primarily confined to academic research and theoretical discussions. However, as computing power increased and algorithms became more sophisticated, practical applications began to emerge. Today, AI systems can perform complex tasks ranging from natural language processing to image recognition with remarkable accuracy. These advances have led to widespread implementation across various sectors, including healthcare, finance, and transportation. Machine learning, a subset of AI, has proven particularly revolutionary, enabling systems to improve their performance through experience without explicit programming. Deep learning networks, inspired by the human brain's neural architecture, have achieved breakthrough results in pattern recognition and data analysis. The impact of AI extends beyond technical achievements, raising important questions about ethics, privacy, and the future of human work. As AI continues to advance, society must grapple with both its tremendous potential and significant challenges. The technology's ability to process vast amounts of data and identify patterns beyond human capability has opened new frontiers in scientific research and innovation. However, concerns about algorithmic bias, data privacy, and the potential displacement of human workers remain important considerations. Looking ahead, the integration of AI into daily life seems certain to accelerate, making it crucial for individuals and organizations to understand and adapt to this technological revolution. The development of responsible AI frameworks and ethical guidelines will play a vital role in ensuring that these powerful tools benefit society as a whole. As we move forward, the challenge lies not just in advancing AI capabilities, but in doing so in a way that enhances human potential while addressing legitimate concerns about its implementation and impact.

In recent years, digital technology impact has become increasingly important in shaping our world's future. Experts and researchers worldwide are dedicating significant resources to understanding and advancing this field. The implications of these developments extend far beyond their immediate applications, affecting various aspects of society and human life. As we continue to make progress in this area, new challenges and opportunities emerge that require innovative solutions and collaborative efforts. The rapid pace of advancement in this domain has led to breakthrough discoveries and implementations that were previously thought impossible. These developments have sparked important discussions about their potential impact on society, economy, and human progress. Looking ahead, it's clear that digital technology impact will play a crucial role in determining how we address global challenges and shape our collective future. The integration of new technologies and methodologies in this field has opened up unprecedented possibilities for innovation and growth. As we move forward, it becomes increasingly important to consider both the benefits and potential implications of these advancements. The coming decades will likely see even more dramatic developments in this area, requiring careful consideration of ethical implications and societal impact. Through continued research and development, we can expect to see significant improvements in how we approach and solve complex problems related to digital technology impact.

On Monday, Doug Ford, the premier of Ontario, one of Canada’s most populous provinces, announced on X that the province’s government would be “ripping up” its $68 million ($100 million CAD) contract with Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service. The news came soon after President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on nearly all Canadian imported goods, causing Canada to impose a 25% tariff on U.S. goods in response. But Ford reportedly decided to put a pin in that plan later on Monday after President Trump chose to delay imposing tariffs on all Canadian imports for 30 days. The stay came after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada announced several concessions, including plans to station 10,000 “frontline personnel” at the 5,500-mile-long Canada-U.S. border. Musk has become a close confidant of President Trump, and now oversees the so-called Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, a team within the Trump administration tasked with conducting massive cost-cutting to government spending and widescale deregulation. At the same time, Musk’s Starlink has been looking to strike deals with local and national governments to provide satellite internet. The Ontario government’s Starlink contract was signed in November 2024 and is supposed to provide fast internet to remote parts of the province.  Earlier on Monday — before Canada was able to delay the imposition of those U.S. tariffs — Ford also said in a press conference that other U.S. companies will also be banned from future provincial contracts in Ontario until the U.S. government removes the tariffs. Ford said Musk was “part of the Trump team that wants to destroy families, incomes, destroy businesses.” “[Musk] wants to take food off the table of people, hard-working people, and I’m not going to tolerate it,” said Ford. “U.S.-based businesses will now lose out on tens of billions of dollars in new revenues. They only have President Trump to blame.” Starlink did not immediately respond to our request for comment. Correction: This story initially stated the ripped-up Starlink contract was worth $100 million instead of $100 million CAD. This piece was also updated to reflect the events of Monday, including the late-day deal that successfully delayed Trump’s announced tariffs. Topics Senior Reporter, Venture Dominic-Madori Davis is a senior venture capital and startup reporter at TechCrunch. She is based in New York City. You can contact her on Signal at +1 (646)-831-7565. Meta says it may stop development of AI systems it deems too risky Hot Tub, the first native iPhone porn app, arrives in EU Hero’s all-in-one, AI productivity app takes on Google’s Calendar and others DeepSeek founder Liang Wenfeng receives a hero’s welcome back home OpenAI unveils a new ChatGPT agent for ‘deep research’ Dub: The copy trading app that has teens talking X expands lawsuit over advertiser ‘boycott’ to include Lego, Nestlé, Pinterest, and others Subscribe for the industry’s biggest tech news Every weekday and Sunday, you can get the best of TechCrunch’s coverage. TechCrunch's AI experts cover the latest news in the fast-moving field. Every Monday, gets you up to speed on the latest advances in aerospace. Startups are the core of TechCrunch, so get our best coverage delivered weekly. By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice.

Join our daily and weekly newsletters for the latest updates and exclusive content on industry-leading AI coverage. Learn More Thomson Reuters is bringing AI to tax professionals in a big way. The company has partnered with Anthropic to use its Claude AI technology in its tax tools, marking one of the largest AI rollouts in the tax and accounting industry. At the heart of this initiative is CoCounsel, Thomson Reuters’ AI platform for legal and tax professionals. The system runs on Amazon’s secure cloud infrastructure, ensuring that sensitive client information remains protected while delivering AI-powered insights. “We combine real expert human knowledge with advanced technology,” Joel Hron, CTO at Thomson Reuters, said in an exclusive interview with VentureBeat. “We have experts across many different domains generating content and workflows. For us, AI is a tool to facilitate the distribution of that expertise through our software.” The company has built a comprehensive retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) architecture that connects Claude to Thomson Reuters’ vast knowledge base, including content from more than 3,000 subject matter experts and 150 years of professional publications. Rob Greenlee, head of industries at Anthropic, explained the technical approach in an exclusive interview: “Claude’s foundation in understanding complex professional domains like law and tax comes from comprehensive training on a diverse range of high-quality texts, including professional and academic content. For work with Thomson Reuters, we’ve taken several additional steps… We then work closely with Thomson Reuters to optimize Claude’s performance through advanced prompting strategies and carefully designed workflows that leverage their authoritative content and domain expertise.” Thomson Reuters is strategically deploying different versions of Claude based on task complexity. The company uses Claude 3 Haiku for rapid processing tasks and Claude 3.5 Sonnet for deeper analyses requiring detailed insights. Early results show significant efficiency gains. “Customers are reporting transformative efficiency gains with CoCounsel,” said Hron. “Professionals are not only saving time but, also elevating the level of work they focus on, maintaining quality while delivering more strategic value to their clients.” Security remains paramount in the implementation. Amazon Bedrock provides what Hron called “a robust and battle-tested cloud infrastructure that adheres to our enterprise-grade security standards throughout the entire life cycle.” The collaboration between Thomson Reuters and Anthropic represents a new model for enterprise AI deployment, combining advanced AI capabilities with domain expertise and secure infrastructure. “What makes this partnership particularly valuable is the combination of Anthropic’s advanced AI capabilities with Thomson Reuters’ deep domain expertise and authoritative content,” said Greenlee. Looking ahead, Thomson Reuters plans to expand its use of Claude, exploring agent frameworks for complex tax workflows and computer vision capabilities to help editorial teams curate content more efficiently. “We’ve been vocal about our AI investment as a strategic part of our products going forward,” said Hron. “Our editorial workforce spends significant time building and curating content — we see tremendous potential to accelerate these processes with Anthropic’s computer vision and tool use capabilities.” The implementation comes as tax and accounting professionals increasingly adopt AI tools to streamline their work. Thomson Reuters’ approach could serve as a blueprint for other enterprises looking to deploy AI while maintaining professional standards and data security. Correction: Feb. 11, 2025: An earlier version of this article misstated Thomson Reuters’ use of Claude AI. The technology is implemented specifically for tax services within CoCounsel, not for legal services. If you want to impress your boss, VB Daily has you covered. We give you the inside scoop on what companies are doing with generative AI, from regulatory shifts to practical deployments, so you can share insights for maximum ROI. Read our Privacy Policy Thanks for subscribing. Check out more VB newsletters here. An error occured.

CloudTech is part of the TechForge Publications series TechForge Artificial Intelligence, Chatbots Muhammad Zulhusni February 3, 2025 Share this story: Tags: Categories:: OpenAI offers two versions of its chatbot, ChatGPT-4 and ChatGPT-3.5, each catering to different needs. ChatGPT-4 is the more advanced option, providing improved accuracy and reasoning, while ChatGPT-3.5 remains a solid choice, especially for those looking for a free AI tool. The right model depends on user needs – whether it’s a more powerful AI for complex tasks or a simple, accessible chatbot for everyday use. Both models are built on the same foundational AI concepts, but they have notable differences. ChatGPT-4 offers more advanced reasoning, a larger context window, and multimodal capabilities, making it better suited for complex problem-solving and content generation. In contrast, ChatGPT-3.5 is designed for general-purpose tasks and is easier to access since it’s free. While ChatGPT-4 requires a subscription, ChatGPT-3.5 is available at no cost, making it a practical option for casual users who don’t need advanced features. ChatGPT-4 is designed for users who need a more powerful AI model that can handle both text and image inputs. It can handle longer conversations, making it helpful for users who want thorough, context-rich interactions. It also supports internet browsing in specific plans, allowing for limited real-time information retrieval. However, this model is only available with subscription plans, which begin at $20 per month for individual users and progress to higher-tier options for teams and enterprises. While these plans offer extra features like a larger context window and better performance, they also require a financial commitment that may be unnecessary for users with basic AI needs. ChatGPT-3.5 remains a viable alternative for users looking for a free AI chatbot that does not require a subscription. It can perform a variety of general tasks, including answering questions, drafting text, and offering conversational support. While it lacks multimodal capabilities and has a smaller context window than ChatGPT-4, it is still a reliable tool for many common uses. The setup process is straightforward – users simply need to create an OpenAI account to start using the model via the web or through mobile apps. It supports voice interactions on mobile devices, making it more convenient for hands-free use. Businesses and professionals looking for a scalable AI solution will likely prefer ChatGPT-4, which provides more sophisticated responses, advanced reasoning, and additional enterprise features. Its ability to process multimodal inputs, evaluate data, and manage longer conversations makes it a more effective tool for professional and research-based tasks. For those deciding between the two, the choice largely depends on the intended use. ChatGPT-4 is the better option for users who require higher accuracy and enhanced reasoning. It is well-suited for professionals, researchers, and businesses seeking a more powerful AI tool. In comparison, ChatGPT-3.5 is ideal for users who need a simple and user-friendly AI model capable of handling a wide range of tasks. While ChatGPT-4 and ChatGPT-3.5 are both capable AI tools, they may not be everyone’s cup of tea. Users looking for a free, multimodal AI tool with extensive real-time web search capabilities may find other models more suitable. Similarly, people who need AI specifically for coding and development may prefer a model optimised for those tasks. OpenAI’s models are designed to be general-purpose, but they may not meet the needs of users requiring highly specialised AI applications. For those exploring alternatives, Google Gemini, Anthropic Claude, and Microsoft Copilot are among the top competitors in the AI chatbot space. Google Gemini, previously known as Bard, integrates deeply with Google Search and offers strong multimodal capabilities. Many users appreciate its accessibility and free-tier offerings. Anthropic’s Claude is another option, particularly for those focused on ethical AI development and security. It features one of the largest context windows available, making it suitable for long-form content generation. Meanwhile, Microsoft Copilot integrates with Microsoft 365 applications and Bing, providing an AI assistant that seamlessly fits into productivity and development workflows. (Photo by Unsplash) See also: Microsoft and OpenAI probe alleged data theft by DeepSeek Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including Intelligent Automation Conference, BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo. Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here. Muhammad Zulhusni Journalist February 3, 2025 February 3, 2025 January 31, 2025 January 29, 2025 Subscribe now to get all our premium content and latest tech news delivered straight to your inbox AGI, Applications, Artificial Intelligence, Chatbots, Companies Artificial Intelligence, Sponsored Content Artificial Intelligence, Chatbots, Companies, Development Artificial Intelligence Artificial Intelligence, Enterprise, Ethics & Society, Legislation & Government, Privacy January 31, 2025 Artificial Intelligence, Companies, Development, Ethics & Society, Security January 29, 2025 Artificial Intelligence, Chatbots, Companies, Development January 29, 2025 All our premium content and latest tech news delivered straight to your inbox AI News is part of TechForge  All our premium content and latest tech news delivered straight to your inbox

CloudTech is part of the TechForge Publications series TechForge Artificial Intelligence, Enterprise, Ethics & Society, Legislation & Government, Privacy Ryan Daws January 31, 2025 Share this story: Tags: Categories:: Next week marks the beginning of a new era for AI regulations as the first obligations of the EU AI Act take effect. While the full compliance requirements won’t come into force until mid-2025, the initial phase of the EU AI Act begins February 2nd and includes significant prohibitions on specific AI applications. Businesses across the globe that operate in the EU must now navigate a regulatory landscape with strict rules and high stakes. The new regulations prohibit the deployment or use of several high-risk AI systems. These include applications such as social scoring, emotion recognition, real-time remote biometric identification in public spaces, and other scenarios deemed unacceptable under the Act. Companies found in violation of the rules could face penalties of up to 7% of their global annual turnover, making it imperative for organisations to understand and comply with the restrictions.   “It’s finally here,” says Levent Ergin, Chief Strategist for Climate, Sustainability, and AI at Informatica. “While we’re still in a phased approach, businesses’ hard-earned preparations for the EU AI Act will now face the ultimate test.” Ergin highlights that even though most compliance requirements will not take effect until mid-2025, the early prohibitions set a decisive tone. “For businesses, the pressure in 2025 is twofold. They must demonstrate tangible ROI from AI investments while navigating challenges around data quality and regulatory uncertainty. It’s already the perfect storm, with 89% of large businesses in the EU reporting conflicting expectations for their generative AI initiatives. At the same time, 48% say technology limitations are a major barrier to moving AI pilots into production,” he remarks. Ergin believes the key to compliance and success lies in data governance. “Without robust data foundations, organisations risk stagnation, limiting their ability to unlock AI’s full potential. After all, isn’t ensuring strong data governance a core principle that the EU AI Act is built upon?” To adapt, companies must prioritise strengthening their approach to data quality. “Strengthening data quality and governance is no longer optional, it’s critical. To ensure both compliance and prove the value of AI, businesses must invest in making sure data is accurate, holistic, integrated, up-to-date and well-governed,” says Ergin. “This isn’t just about meeting regulatory demands; it’s about enabling AI to deliver real business outcomes. As 82% of EU companies plan to increase their GenAI investments in 2025, ensuring their data is AI-ready will be the difference between those who succeed and those who remain in the starting blocks.” The extraterritorial scope of the EU AI Act means non-EU organisations are assuredly not off the hook. As Marcus Evans, a partner at Norton Rose Fulbright, explains, the Act applies far beyond the EU’s borders. “The AI Act will have a truly global application,” says Evans. “That’s because it applies not only to organisations in the EU using AI or those providing, importing, or distributing AI to the EU market, but also AI provision and use where the output is used in the EU. So, for instance, a company using AI for recruitment in the EU – even if it is based elsewhere – would still be captured by these new rules.”   Evans advises businesses to start by auditing their AI use. “At this stage, businesses must first understand where AI is being used in their organisation so that they can then assess whether any use cases may trigger the prohibitions. Building on that initial inventory, a wider governance process can then be introduced to ensure AI use is assessed, remains outside the prohibitions, and complies with the AI Act.”   While organisations work to align their AI practices with the new regulations, additional challenges remain. Compliance requires addressing other legal complexities such as data protection, intellectual property (IP), and discrimination risks.   Evans emphasises that raising AI literacy within organisations is also a critical step. “Any organisations in scope must also take measures to ensure their staff – and anyone else dealing with the operation and use of their AI systems on their behalf – have a sufficient level of AI literacy,” he states. “AI literacy will play a vital role in AI Act compliance, as those involved in governing and using AI must understand the risks they are managing.” The EU AI Act is being hailed as a milestone for responsible AI development. By prohibiting harmful practices and requiring transparency and accountability, the regulation seeks to balance innovation with ethical considerations. “This framework is a pivotal step towards building a more responsible and sustainable future for artificial intelligence,” says Beatriz Sanz Sáiz, AI Sector Leader at EY Global. Sanz Sáiz believes the legislation fosters trust while providing a foundation for transformative technological progress. “It has the potential to foster further trust, accountability, and innovation in AI development, as well as strengthen the foundations upon which the technology continues to be built,” Sanz Sáiz asserts. “It is critical that we focus on eliminating bias and prioritising fundamental rights like fairness, equity, and privacy. Responsible AI development is a crucial step in the quest to further accelerate innovation.” To ensure compliance, businesses need to be crystal-clear on which activities fall under the EU AI Act’s strict prohibitions. The current list of prohibited activities includes:   The Commission’s forthcoming guidance on which “AI systems” fall under these categories will be critical for businesses seeking to ensure compliance and reduce legal risks. Additionally, companies should anticipate further clarification and resources at the national and EU levels, such as the upcoming webinar hosted by the AI Office. The early implementation of the EU AI Act represents just the beginning of what is a remarkably complex and ambitious regulatory endeavour. As AI continues to play an increasingly pivotal role in business strategy, organisations must learn to navigate new rules and continuously adapt to future changes.   For now, businesses should focus on understanding the scope of their AI use, enhancing data governance, educating staff to build AI literacy, and adopting a proactive approach to compliance. By doing so, they can position themselves as leaders in a fast-evolving AI landscape and unlock the technology’s full potential while upholding ethical and legal standards. (Photo by Guillaume Périgois) See also: ChatGPT Gov aims to modernise US government agencies Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including Intelligent Automation Conference, BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo. Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here. Ryan Daws Senior Editor February 3, 2025 February 3, 2025 February 3, 2025 January 29, 2025 Subscribe now to get all our premium content and latest tech news delivered straight to your inbox AGI, Applications, Artificial Intelligence, Chatbots, Companies Artificial Intelligence, Sponsored Content Artificial Intelligence, Chatbots, Companies, Development Artificial Intelligence Artificial Intelligence, Enterprise, Ethics & Society, Legislation & Government, Privacy January 31, 2025 Artificial Intelligence, Companies, Development, Ethics & Society, Security January 29, 2025 Artificial Intelligence, Chatbots, Companies, Development January 29, 2025 All our premium content and latest tech news delivered straight to your inbox AI News is part of TechForge  All our premium content and latest tech news delivered straight to your inbox

Welcome to the surge of new subscribers that joined us this week. I am very honoured to have you here. In my Sunday essay, I study the way that humans interact with each other. I am an investor and an entrepreneur. However, I have learned that trying to understand trends in money flow and markets before understanding human nature puts the cart before the horse. Human nature is the cause of macroeconomics, geopolitics, and finance. All of this occurs as a consequence of how humans are with each other. So, every Sunday, we spend some time discussing our behaviour. If I have a secondary mission with this letter, it is to challenge any and all absolute truths and dispute all common narratives. I lean on history, culture, philosophy and psychology for lessons on the past and present. I love writing it. Let's jump in. Last week, a headline about a youth arrested for a hit and run accident caught my eye. Allegedly, he had hit a bicyclist while driving a car and sped away. The bicyclist died from his injuries. The incident was caught on camera. After apprehension, the youth in question made some callous statements and demonstrated an offensive lack of remorse. He was allegedly goading the police officers who detained him; he shrugged off the victim's death and stated that because he was a minor, a hit and run would get him a "slap on the wrist." He would be back on the street in no time. His statements in the context of an innocent man losing his life were vile,no question about it. The conversation and comments surrounding the story were filled with outrage, justifiably. Many called for a Hamurabi's Code punishment an eye for an eye. I am no saint. I can be quick to judge and am often blind to my own biases. But I looked at the picture of this 16 year old kid and tried to ask myself some questions.