Microsoft Outage Again, Deepfake Defense, Perplexity Pays + more!
Aug 1, 2024
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Microsoft faced a major DDoS attack, impacting services like Minecraft and Xbox Live. The episode dives into the scrutiny surrounding AI deepfakes and Google's legislative efforts. Perplexity is shaking things up with a new revenue sharing model. In tech news, the Ryzen 9 5900XT launch is covered along with Amazon's recall of 400,000 products. Meta is settling a massive lawsuit over privacy, while a controversial Google ad utilizes AI for emotional storytelling. Lastly, a quirky AI wearable called 'Friend' is discussed for socially awkward situations.
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Quick takeaways
Microsoft faced a major global outage caused by a DDoS attack, highlighting vulnerabilities in its Azure cloud infrastructure and response mechanisms.
Recent U.S. legislation aims to combat AI deepfakes, introducing protections for artists and enhancing penalties for malicious content producers.
Deep dives
Microsoft Outage and DDoS Attack Response
Microsoft recently faced a significant global outage impacting its Microsoft 365 services, including platforms like Minecraft and Xbox Live, due to a DDoS attack on its Azure cloud service. The company's response involved activating its DDoS protection mechanisms, which unfortunately backfired and exacerbated the situation. This incident raises critical questions about Microsoft's infrastructure and response strategies, especially in light of a previous outage caused by a software update from CrowdStrike that also affected many businesses. Delta Airlines' CEO is reportedly seeking $500 million in damages due to the disruptions, highlighting the severe repercussions of these technical failures for major companies relying on Microsoft's services.
Legislation and Response to AI Deepfakes
Recent developments in legislation aim to address the rising concerns around AI deepfakes, with the U.S. Senate introducing the No Fakes Act designed to protect artists from unauthorized uses of their likenesses. In parallel, Google is enhancing its search algorithm to remove explicit deepfakes and penalize hosting sites, a move seen as essential given the prevalence of non-consensual imagery online. Meanwhile, the Senate passed the Defiance Act, which allows victims to take legal action against producers of malicious deepfakes. This legislative momentum underscores the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to combat the misuse of deepfake technology amid calls from companies like Microsoft for stricter regulations to prevent fraud and manipulation.