Thu. 06/10 – Another Payoff To Ransomware Hackers · Tech Brew Ride Home summary

Key takeaways

JBS's experience emphasizes the dire need for robust cybersecurity measures as ransomware attacks become increasingly common.
Facebook's smartwatch could reshape the wearable tech market, offering features that encourage independence from smartphones.
Microsoft's game streaming strategy could revolutionize gaming accessibility, potentially attracting non-console users.
Samsung’s new camera sensor technology reflects the company’s commitment to innovation in mobile photography.
Stripe Tax's launch could significantly ease the burden of sales tax compliance for e-commerce businesses.
The ongoing fight against Apple's App Store fees raises critical questions about the sustainability of the creator economy.

Summary

Ransomware Attack on JBS

In a significant incident, JBS, the largest meat company in North America, paid an $11 million ransom in Bitcoin following a cyberattack orchestrated by the Reval ransomware gang. JBS's CEO, Andre Nogueria, discussed the difficult decision to pay the hackers, emphasizing the importance of protecting their operations and customer trust. The cooperation between the company and federal authorities, including the FBI, exemplifies the seriousness of cybersecurity threats faced by large corporations.

Facebook's Upcoming Smartwatch

Facebook is set to launch its first smartwatch, expected in summer 2022. The device will feature a detachable display, dual cameras, and a heart rate monitor. It aims to provide video calling capabilities and the flexibility to capture photos when detached. This move is part of Facebook's broader strategy to establish its ecosystem and reduce reliance on competitors like Apple and Google. They’re working with wireless carriers for LTE connectivity, indicating their ambition in the consumer hardware space.

Microsoft Enters Game Streaming Space

Microsoft revealed plans to launch a dedicated game streaming device and collaborate with TV manufacturers to integrate Xbox Game Pass into smart TVs, enhancing accessibility for gamers. By focusing on cloud gaming, Microsoft aims to revolutionize the gaming experience, allowing games to be played without the need for a console, which could appeal to a broader audience. This strategic shift marks a departure from traditional gaming models seen with competitors.

Samsung’s Innovative Camera Sensor

Samsung has introduced a cutting-edge 50-megapixel camera sensor with significantly smaller pixel sizes. This innovation aims to enable ultra-wide and telephoto applications, pushing the boundaries of smartphone photography. The company claims enhanced light sensitivity through pixel-bending technology, demonstrating its commitment to advancing mobile photography while addressing size constraints.

Stripe Tax and E-Commerce Challenges

Stripe has launched a new service called Stripe Tax, designed to simplify sales tax calculations for online businesses across multiple countries. This initiative addresses a prevalent pain point for digital retailers, especially as e-commerce grows rapidly. The new tool aims to alleviate compliance issues that have plagued online sellers, underlining Stripe's effort to expand its services beyond basic payment processing.

The Creator Economy vs. App Store Fees

The ongoing debate about Apple's 30% App Store cut has intensified, with platforms like Fanhouse rallying against these fees, which they argue are detrimental to creators. The show's discussion highlighted the tension between the creator economy and traditional app distribution models, questioning the fairness and sustainability of such fees in a digital-first economy. The implications for creators’ earnings and the future of platforms catering to them were examined.

Show notes

Another payoff to Ransomware hackers. Facebook to launch a smartwatch? Microsoft to launch a dedicated game streaming device? Samsung unveils a tiny, tiny camera sensor. Stripe wants to handle your sales tax headache. And can the creator economy take off in a world of App Stores with 30% rakes?
Sponsors:

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Cybereason.com

Links:

JBS Paid $11 Million to Resolve Ransomware Attack (Wall Street Journal)

Facebook plans first smartwatch for next summer with two cameras, heart rate monitor (The Verge)

Microsoft is building its own streaming devices as part of a major Xbox Game Pass expansion (Protocol)

Samsung pushes pixel size even further with new camera sensor (The Verge)

Payments giant Stripe launches Stripe Tax to integrate sales tax calculations for 30+ countries (Tech Crunch)

The creator economy is running into the Apple Tax — this startup is fighting back (The Verge)

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