Creative Commons image by user Chs87
Today’s Tech Sightings:
Hollywood Hospital Held to Ransom by Hackers
Hackers have taken control of computer systems at the Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center and are now demanding $3.6 million in ransom. The hospital has been crippled by the attack, with staff having to revert to pen and paper for their records. The attackers are demanding the ransom in bitcoins, the virtual currency of choice among cyber criminals.
Android Malware Used Remotely to Erase Devices
Researchers at Heimdal Security discovered a malware strain identified as ‘Mazar Android BOT’ that allows hackers to take control of remote devices. The hackers send out a new MMS message that includes a link. Once triggered with a lick on that link, the malware installs the TOR browser through a legitimate URL on the target device.
Microsoft Wants to Make Building a PC a Breeze
Modular computing is in the conversation again. A Microsoft patent spied online hopes to turn PCs into modular computing devices that fit together, sort of like LEGO bricks. The devices could range from powerful PCs to low-end devices. A number of other companies have also been researching modular computing.
More:
- Your Smartphone Can Now Detect Earthquakes and Help You Survive
- Russian Cyberspy Group Uses Simple Yet Effective Linux Trojan
- Humanoid Robots Being Developed for Aircraft Manufacturing
- Apple Pay to Go Live in China on Feb 18
- Vaio, Fujitsu, Toshiba May Join Forces as PC Supergroup
- What to Expect From Mobile World Congress 2016
