Today’s Tech Sightings:
Attackers using ransomware encrypt files on mobile devices or PCs and lock out their users until they comply with a demand to pay ransom. (Ted Benson for VOA)
40 Percent of Businesses Attacked by Ransomware
A survey of businesses by the computer security firm Malwarebytes reveals that nearly 40 percent of businesses have been the victims of ransomware attacks in the past year. The attacks take over a computer or device and requires the user to pay to regain access. Ransomware is one of the fastest growing methods of attack, the report states.
Alphabet Gets Clearance to Begin Testing Delivery Drones in US
Google’s parent company, Alphabet, has gotten clearance to test drones, according to the White House. The tests are part of a U.S. government initiative to spend $35 million to advance unmanned aerial vehicle research. Alphabet has said it would like to use drones for deliveries. Amazon has been testing similar technology.
Olympics to Test Rio’s Fragile Mobile Phone Network
When spectators and athletes attempt to text, tweet or Facebook their Olympic experiences, they may have a hard time given Rio’s notoriously weak mobile phone infrastructure. One provider, Claro, added to its network capacity, but some worry it might not be enough.
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