If youve purchased a Wi-Fi router in the past year, theres a good chance it was made by TP-Link. That might not be possible in 2025.Investigators at the Commerce, Defense and Justice departments have all opened probes into the company due to its ties to Chinese cyberattacks and are weighing a potential ban on the sale of TP-Link routers, says a Wall Street Journal article published last week.TP-Link has become increasingly dominant in the US router market since the pandemic. According to the Journal report, it grew from 20% of total router sales in 2019 to around 65% this year. TP-Link disputed these numbers to CNET, and a separate analysis from the IT platform Lansweeper found that 12% of home routers in the US are TP-Link.While there have been high-profile cyberattacks involving TP-Link routers, this potential ban is more about the companys ties to China than specific security issues that have been publicly identified, according to cybersecurity researchers I spoke with.People expect there to be some smoking gun or something in these devices from Chinese manufacturers, and what you end up finding is the exact same problems in every device. It's not like the Chinese devices are glaringly insecure, Thomas Pace, the CEO of the cybersecurity firm NetRise and a former security contractor for the Department of Energy, told CNET. That's not the risk. The risk is in the corporate structure of every Chinese company.TP-Link was founded in 1996 by brothers Zhao Jianjun and Zhao Jiaxing in Shenzhen, China. In October, it moved its headquarters to Irvine, California, two months after the House announced an investigation into the company. The company told CNET it had previously operated dual headquarters in Singapore and Irvine. Its newly opened headquarters in Shenzhen won an architecture award in 2017. Watch this: Best Wi-Fi Routers for 2024: A Buying Guide 06:14 In my conversations with TP-Link representatives over the past few days, theyve repeatedly distanced themselves from ties to China.TP-Link has a secure, vertically-integrated, and US-owned international supply chain, a TP-Link representative told CNET. Nearly all products sold in the United States are manufactured in Vietnam.Even so, the US government appears to see TP-Link as a Chinese entity. In August, the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party urged an investigation into the company.TP-Links unusual degree of vulnerabilities and required compliance with [Chinese] law are in and of themselves disconcerting, the lawmakers wrote. When combined with the [Chinese] governments common use of [home office] routers like TP-Link to perpetrate extensive cyberattacks in the United States, it becomes significantly alarming.Asked for comment, a TP-Link representative told CNET, Like many consumer electronics brands, TP-Link Systems' routers have been identified as potential targets for hackers. However, there is no evidence to suggest our products are more vulnerable than those of other brands.CNET has several TP-Link models on our lists of the best Wi-Fi routers and will monitor this story closely to see if we need to reevaluate those choices. While our evaluation of the hardware hasn't changed, we're pausing our recommendations of TP-Link routers until we learn more. Chris Monroe/CNETA ban is more about TP-Links ties to China than a known technical issueThe cybersecurity experts I spoke with all agreed that TP-Link had security flaws -- but so do all router companies. Its unclear whether the government has found a new issue that would lead to a potential ban on TP-Link sales.The Wall Street Journal article cited federal contracting documents that show TP-Link routers purchased by agencies from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to the Defense Department and Drug Enforcement Administration.Vulnerabilities in embedded devices are not unique to any one manufacturer or country of origin. Nation-state actors frequently exploit weaknesses in devices from vendors worldwide, including those sold by American manufacturers. Sonu Shankar, Chief Product Officer Phosphorus Cybersecurity The potential ban comes at a time in Washington when there is growing bipartisan support for extracting Chinese products from US telecommunications. In an attack revealed in October dubbed Salt Typhoon, Chinese hackers reportedly broke into the networks of US internet providers like AT&T, Verizon and Lumen, which owns CenturyLink and Quantum Fiber.Brendan Carr, Trumps pick for Federal Communications Commission chairman, said in an interview with CNBC that a recent intelligence briefing on the Salt Typhoon attack made me want to basically smash my phone at the end of it.In many ways, the horse is out of the barn at this point, Carr said. And we need all hands on deck to try to address this and rein this in.TP-Link hasnt been linked to the Salt Typhoon attacks, but it does show the current temperature for perceived threats from China. Chris Monroe/CNETThe government may have identified a TP-Link vulnerability, but we dont know for sureSeveral of the cybersecurity experts I spoke with believe its likely that intelligence agencies have found something with TP-Link that warrants a ban.I think this comes from a deeper intelligence within the US government. Usually this happens before the information becomes public, Guido Patanella, senior vice president of engineering at Lansweeper, told CNET.I think it's beyond political. It could be either an intentionally set hardware flaw or it could be from a firmware point-of-view. This is usually a black box analysis and it usually doesn't get shared, as happened with Huawei. Guido Patanella, senior vice president of engineering at Lansweeper In 2019, then-President Donald Trump issued an executive order that effectively banned US companies from using network equipment from Huawei, another Chinese company that came under fire over national security concerns.Pace, the NetRise CEO, told me he thinks its likely that theres a zero-day vulnerability in TP-Link devices -- a term that refers to a hidden flaw in which there have been zero days to fix it -- but he was quick to point out that theres no evidence to back that up.But at least that claim is based in some sort of reality that we are aware of that exists, which is that the PRC (People's Republic of China) is involved in every Chinese corporation. And that's undeniable, Pace said. TP-LinkTP-Link has known security flaws, but so do all router companiesA TP-Link representative pointed us to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agencys (CISA) list of Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV). TP-Link has two of these events catalogued, compared to eight for Netgear and 20 for D-Link; other popular router brands like Asus, Linksys and Eero have none.By this measure, TP-Link isnt exceptional in either direction, but that might not be all that useful of a measure.We've analyzed an astonishing amount of TP-Link firmware. We find stuff, but we find stuff in everything. Thomas Pace, CEO of cybersecurity firm NetRise and former security contractor for the Department of Energy The problem with the CISA KEV [list] is, if everything's on the list, how good is that list? Pace said. Basically, every telecommunications device on the planet has at least one vulnerability on the CISA KEV. It's a big problem that there are not great answers to.There have also been several cybersecurity reports that have singled out TP-Link specifically. The most high-profile one came in October when Microsoft released details on a password spraying attack it had been tracking for over a year. In this type of attack, hackers use a single common password to access multiple accounts.Microsoft referred to the attack as nation-state threat actor activity and said TP-Link made up most of the routers used.In May 2023, Check Point Research also identified a firmware implant in TP-Link routers linked to a Chinese state-sponsored hacking group. In this case, the campaign targeted European foreign affairs entities. Still, the researchers emphasized that the attack was written in a firmware-agnostic manner and wasnt designed to exploit TP-Link specifically.While our analysis focused on its presence in modified TP-Link firmware, previous incidents show that similar implants and backdoors have been used on devices from diverse manufacturers, including US based, Itay Cohen, one of the authors of the Check Point Research report, told CNET.The broader implication is that this implant isnt about targeting a specific brand -- its part of a larger strategy to exploit systemic vulnerabilities in internet infrastructure.Cohen said he doesnt believe a TP-Link ban would improve security much. As I heard from other researchers, the security issues that have been identified are not unique to one company.The vulnerabilities and risks associated with routers are largely systemic and apply to a wide range of brands, including those manufactured in the US, Cohen said. We dont believe that the implant we found was known to TP-Link or was knowingly inserted as a backdoor to their products. Chris Monroe/CNETIs it safe to use a TP-Link router?There are real risks associated with using a TP-Link router, but some level of risk is present no matter what brand of router you use. In general, cyberattacks tied to Chinese actors have targeted think tanks, government organizations, nongovernment organizations and Defense Department suppliers, according to the Journals reporting.I don't think that the average person is going to have this massive target on their back, Pace told CNET. They tend to go after the things they want to go after.That said, these kinds of attacks are often indiscriminate, with the goal of creating a chain of nodes between infected routers and hackers.This means regular users are at risk of being targeted as part of a broader attack campaign, even if they are not individually targeted, said Cohen, the Check Point Security researcher.How to protect yourself if you have a TP-Link routerTo keep your network safe and secure, you should follow the same steps whether you have a TP-Link router or any other brand. Heres what experts recommend:Keep your firmware updated: One of the most common ways hackers access your network is through outdated firmware. TP-Link told us that customers with TP-Link Cloud accounts can simply click the Check for Updates button in their product's firmware menu when logged into the TP-Link app or website. You can also find the latest updates in TP-Links download center.Strengthen your credentials: If youve never changed the default login credentials on your router, nows the time to do it. Weak passwords are the culprit in many of the most common attacks. Devices using default or weak passwords are easy targets, Cohen told CNET. Default or simple passwords can be easily brute-forced or guessed. Most routers have an app that lets you update your login credentials from there, but you can also type your routers IP address into a URL. These credentials are different from your Wi-Fi name and password, which should also be changed every six months or so. The longer and more random the password, the better.Consider using a VPN service: For an added layer of protection, a virtual private network will encrypt all of your internet traffic and prevent your internet provider (or anyone else) from tracking the websites or apps youre using. You can find CNETs picks for the best VPN services here.

The age of social media has ushered in an abundance of annual food and drink trends, from tart cherry juice-based sleepy girl mocktails to cheese-covered pickles (known as wait for it "chickles"). While these are often creative, visually compelling and, yes, (sometimes) delicious, they're often concocted out of boredom or with the sole intention of going viral. And they succeed.As we bid adieu to another year and another arsenal of wacky flavor amalgamations, we chatted with six world-famous chefs to get their predictions of the type of cuisine we should expect beyond the Instagram feed and in restaurant kitchens. We also asked what cuisines and ingredients they hope to see more of, since trends tend to be short-lived and unpredictable (much like the fate of TikTok, but we digress). This story is part of The Year Ahead, CNET's look at how the world will continue to evolve starting in 2022 and beyond. Here are their responses, as well as a tip from us to get a head start and turn these predictions into realities.Carla Hall Carla Hall/Facebook2025 culinary trend prediction: Upgrade your inbox Get cnet insider From talking fridges to iPhones, our experts are here to help make the world a little less complicated. "If you're new to cooking, my advice is simple: Spice up your life. Experimentation can be your trend. Take what seems like a basic meal, like a perfectly roasted chicken, your favorite vegetable and rice pilaf, and then try different spice combinations. You'll be amazed at how it transforms a dish. And if you want to get really 'trendy,' try using AI to suggest spice blends from various places and cultures. It's a fun way to explore the world through your taste buds and build your pantry."2025 trend she hopes to see:"For 2025, I hope to see food as a bridge to cultural understanding, with a growing appreciation for the diversity and depth within African cuisines. It's time we delve into the distinct culinary traditions across the continent rather than viewing Africa itself as a monolith and certainly its cuisine. Each region offers unique ingredients, techniques and stories that deserve the spotlight."Pro tip: For custom, global spice blends, start with one of these 10 rubs that you can apply to proteins and vegetables before throwing them on the grill or into the oven.Marcus Samuelsson Marcus Samuelsson/Facebook2025 culinary trend prediction:"Climate change has an impact on all of us. I want to see us eat more grains and local vegetables in season. Maybe African grains like teff, fonio and millet that you now find in some sections of Whole Foods, but I want it to be more mainstream."2025 trend he hopes to see:"The next place exposed [or frequent] travelers, especially young people, will go is to a continent [instead of just a city]. Going to places like Senegal, Morocco, Ethiopia, Egypt, South Africa, Ghana you see more of it. Traveling changes and transforms, but what Africa has is an impact on pop culture. Food will be next. I've already started to see jollof rice battles."Pro tip: We can all do more to lessen our carbon imprint, especially when it comes to eating. Consider what everyday practices may be detrimental to the environment and how you can limit or eliminate them altogether.Maneet Chauhuan Maneet Chauhan/Facebook2025 culinary trend prediction:"I'm thinking the love for island and Caribbean food will continue in 2025, with dishes like conch salad, Bahamian fish stew, and Bahamian peas and rice!"2025 cooking trend she hopes to see:"I'm hoping island and Caribbean foods get some love in 2025 -- it's time! I really love the beautiful amalgamation of flavors that island cuisine brings. Each island uses its own local, fresh seafood and puts its own signature on it, and it's amazing."Pro tip: While amateur cooks can certainly invest in island-inspired hot sauces, curries and spices, a trip to the Caribbean will satisfy any sudden craving for these bold and unique flavors. Check out these money-saving summer travel tips (which can be applied year-round) to plan that dream trip to the Bahamas and beyond.Dominique Roy Eleven Madison Park2025 culinary trend prediction:"I anticipate a continued rise in the popularity of plant-based and vegetarian cuisine, as more diners seek healthier and sustainable options. I also think that specific ingredients like seaweed, ancient grains and fermented foods will likely keep gaining in popularity."2025 trend he hopes to see:"I hope to see a greater recognition of global plant-based cuisines, especially those from regions that deserve more attention. There is amazing plant-forward food around the world that is underrated. I feel strongly that dishes that celebrate bold spices and diverse cooking techniques can inspire chefs and home cooks alike."Pro tip: If the idea of preparing delicious vegan and vegetarian dishes intimidates you, rely on one one of our best vegan meal delivery services for 2024 to jump start your foray into plant-forward cooking and inspire future meals.Geoffrey Zakarian Geoffrey Zakarian/Facebook2025 culinary trend prediction:"I'm not a trend predictor because the word trend refers to things that will be around this year. What I see is a very deliberate march towards real food and nothing processed at all."2025 trend he hopes to see:"The Middle East has always played second fiddle to Italy. They are both tremendous cuisines and, together, the healthiest on the planet."Pro tip: A clay tagine makes a wonderful investment to low-and-slow cook stews, braises and soups. It's also one of seven cooking tools from around the world that our editors have tested and recommended.Daniel Boulud Born inSaint-Pierre-de-Chandieu, Daniel Boulud would love to see French country cooking trend in 2025. Restaurant Daniel2025 culinary trend prediction:"I think the big culinary trend in 2025 will be pickling."2025 trend he hopes to see:"I would love to see French country cooking trend in 2025."Pro tip: Pickling will require a jar of sorts to allow flavors to meld, transform and preserve. Check out our complete guide to canning to enjoy farm-fresh produce, with or without tang, year-round.

Operation: Big Boy The quest to save the worlds largest CRT TV from destruction 440-pound 1980s behemoth rescued from an Osaka restaurant days before demolition. Kyle Orland Dec 23, 2024 2:48 pm | 99 Credit: Reddit Story textSizeSmallStandardLargeWidth *StandardWideLinksStandardOrange* Subscribers only Learn moreAt this point, any serious retro gamer knows that a bulky cathode ray tube (CRT) TV provides the most authentic, lag-free experience for game consoles that predate the era of flat-panel HDTVs (i.e,. before the Xbox 360/PlayStation 3 era). But modern gamers used to massive flat panel HD displays might balk at the display size of the most common CRTs, which tend to average in the 20- to 30-inch range (depending on the era they were made).For those who want the absolute largest CRT experience possible, Sony's KX-45ED1 model (aka PVM-4300) has become the stuff of legends. The massive 45-inch CRT was sold in the late '80s for a whopping $40,000 (over $100,000 in today's dollars), according to contemporary reports.That price means it wasn't exactly a mass-market product, and the limited supply has made it something of a white whale for CRT enthusiasts to this day. While a few pictures have emerged of the PVM-4300 in the wild and in marketing materials, no collector has stepped forward with detailed footage of a working unit. The PVM-4300, seen dwarfing the tables and chairs at an Osaka noodle restaurant. Credit: Shank Mods Enter Shank Mods, a retro gaming enthusiast and renowned maker of portable versions of non-portable consoles. In a fascinating 35-minute video posted this weekend, he details his years-long effort to find and secure a PVM-4300 from a soon-to-be-demolished restaurant in Japan and preserve it for years to come.A confirmed white whale sightingShank Mods' quest started in earnest in October 2022, when the moderator of the Console Modding wiki, Derf, reached out with a tip on a PVM-4300 sighting in the wild. A 7-year-old Japanese blog post included a photo of the massive TV that could be sourced to a waiting room of the Chikuma Soba noodle restaurant and factory in Osaka, Japan.The find came just in time, as Chikuma Soba's website said the restaurant was scheduled to move to a new location in mere days, after which the old location would be demolished. Shank Mods took to Twitter looking to recruit an Osaka local in a last-ditch effort to save the TV from destruction. Local game developer Bebe Tinari responded to the call and managed to visit the site, confirming that the TV still existed and even turned on. Quite possibly the world's largest game of Duck Hunt (which doesn't work on stock flat-panel TVs). Credit: Shank Mods After a nerve-wracking quest to contact the restaurant's owner, Shank Mods confirmed that he could take possession of the TV if he could manage to handle the shipping himself. That left Shank Mods with two weeks to figure out how to get a 440-pound TV (and its specially designed, reinforced 171-pound stand) down from the second floor of an Osaka restaurant and to a safe location.Luckily, Tinari had a friend who worked for a company that regularly shipped large-scale industrial equipment internationally that would be able to help. Shank Mods wouldn't detail the precise cost they quoted to get the TV down the stairs, to a warehouse, crated up for air shipment to the US, and then shipped via truck to the garage of his (very tolerant) parents. But he did say that the "used car amount of money" that he was quoted was fronted by a video sponsor, helping him save this piece of television history from the bottom of a Japanese landfill. Shank Mods' full video detailing the PVM-4300 rescue process. It belongs in a museumThe full video includes lots of footage and details of the shipping and unboxing process, and confirmation that the TV still works after its incredible journey. Shank Mods also includes a breakdown of the internal design and processing hardware that went into such a uniquely large CRT and an extended discussion of the intricate process of calibrating and tuning the tube to deliver a sharp, color-corrected picture after years of magnetic and electron beam drift.Shank Mods mentions multiple times in the video that this gigantic CRT looks much better in person than on a YouTube video. We can only hope he can raise the funds to turn his parents' garage into a public museum for classic gaming enthusiasts eager to make a pilgrimage to see the one-of-a-kind find for themselves. Or maybe an old-fashioned whistle-stop tour of the countryside can be arranged, hopefully on a specially designed train car with a reinforced floor. Let's make it happen, people!Kyle OrlandSenior Gaming EditorKyle OrlandSenior Gaming Editor Kyle Orland has been the Senior Gaming Editor at Ars Technica since 2012, writing primarily about the business, tech, and culture behind video games. He has journalism and computer science degrees from University of Maryland. He once wrote a whole book about Minesweeper. 99 Comments

Image: SEGA, ParamountSonic the Hedgehog's third movie outing is now in cinemas and while there are some new faces in this latest live-action entry like Shadow, a few other fan favourites have missed out (again).This includes (spoiler alert) Big the Cat and Rouge the Bat. According to the writers Pat Casey and Josh Miller, there was a cameo planned for Big in the second movie - where he was going to show up in skeleton form on the snowy mountains as a reference to Indiana Jones, but it was a little too grim.Pat Casey: "Indiana Jones, it's a trope that at some point a skeleton pops out at you and scares you. So we were going to do that, but with a skeleton of a, I would say, a Big the Cat, not necessarily- [Big the Cat]"As for Rouge, the duo has apparently been "unsuccessful" in finding a way to incorporate her for three films straight. Fortunately, not all hope is lost - with a fourth movie reportedly confirmed to be on the way! It will apparently be aiming for a Spring 2027 release - so it's still a while away. Is anyone surprised?Here's what the critics had to say...Guns, motorbikes, and some crucial backstoryApart from these two characters, who else from the Sonic universe would you like to see in the live-action movies? Let us know in the comments.[source ign.com]Share:00 Liam is a news writer and reviewer for Nintendo Life and Pure Xbox. He's been writing about games for more than 15 years and is a lifelong fan of Mario and Master Chief. Hold on there, you need to login to post a comment...Related ArticlesRound Up: The Reviews Are In For The Sonic The Hedgehog 3 MovieHere's what the critics had to say...Sonic The Hedgehog Will Be Back For A Fourth MovieIs anyone surprised?PSA: Watch Out, Sonic 3 Movie Spoilers Are Already Cropping Up OnlineIncluding the all-important post-credits sceneSonic Racing: CrossWorlds Speeds Onto Nintendo Switch "Soon"Update: New info has surfaced

Merry Christmas!Following Sega's removal of certain digital titles earlier this month, multiple Cartoon Network Games under the Warner Bros. Discovery label have now been removed from digital stores including Nintendo's Switch eShop.There's no word if they'll ever return but according to reports, "at least five games" under the Warner Bros. label have been delisted.Read the full article on nintendolife.com

Screws | Dan Cristian Padure via UnsplashFasteners might not be the first thing you think about when considering durable construction or DIY projects, but they play a vital role in the longevity and stability of your work. Among the various types of screws available, galvanized screws stand out for their superior resistance to corrosion and their versatility in a wide range of applications. In this comprehensive guide, well explore what makes these screws special, their key advantages, common uses, and tips for selecting the perfect type for your needs.What Are Galvanized Screws?Galvanized screws are fasteners treated with a protective zinc coating that shields them from rust and corrosion. This unique property makes them an excellent choice for projects exposed to harsh weather conditions, high humidity, or chemically aggressive environments.There are two primary methods for galvanizing screws, each providing specific advantages depending on the intended use:Hot-Dip Galvanizing: The screw is dipped into molten zinc, creating a thick and rugged coating. This method is commonly used for heavy-duty applications that require maximum durability.Electro-Galvanizing: Zinc is applied using an electrochemical process, resulting in a thinner but smoother finish. These screws are often used for light-duty tasks where aesthetics and precision are important.Zinc is a highly effective material for preventing corrosion. It acts as a sacrificial layer, meaning it corrodes in place of the steel or iron beneath, prolonging the lifespan of the screw.Benefits of Galvanized ScrewsGalvanized screws offer a range of advantages that make them a preferred choice for both professional builders and DIY enthusiasts.Exceptional Corrosion ResistanceOne of the standout benefits of galvanized screws is their ability to resist rust. The zinc coating forms a barrier against moisture, oxygen, and other elements that accelerate corrosion. This makes them ideal for outdoor and marine environments.Extended LongevityGalvanized screws are built to last. The zinc coating not only prevents rust but also ensures the screw retains its structural integrity for years, even under challenging conditions. This reduces maintenance and replacement costs over time.Cost-EffectivenessWhile stainless steel screws offer similar rust resistance, they are significantly more expensive. Galvanized screws provide a budget-friendly alternative without compromising durability, making them a popular choice for both large-scale and small-scale projects.Versatility Across ApplicationsFrom carpentry to industrial construction, galvanized screws can be used with wood, metal, concrete, and plastic. Their versatility means you can rely on them for almost any project that requires fastening.Environmentally FriendlyZinc is a recyclable material, and galvanized screws can often be reused. By choosing these screws, you contribute to sustainability efforts while still getting a high-performing product.Common Uses of Galvanized Screws Chris Yates via Unsplash Haupes via UnsplashGalvanized screws are a cornerstone of outdoor projects such as:Deck Building: Their rust resistance makes them perfect for securing decking boards, ensuring the structure remains strong and visually appealing.Fencing and Gates: They provide a durable connection that withstands exposure to rain, wind, and UV rays.Roofing: Often used to attach metal or shingle roofing, they help protect homes from leaks and structural damage.Marine ApplicationsIn coastal or marine environments, where saltwater accelerates rust, galvanized screws are a go-to choice. They are used in:Building docks and piers.Securing boat components.Constructing seawalls and other waterfront structures.Furniture and CarpentryCrafting outdoor furniture or assembling wooden structures exposed to the elements? Galvanized screws ensure your creations maintain their stability and appearance over time.Industrial and Commercial ProjectsIn industrial applications, galvanized screws are essential for fastening machinery, metal frameworks, and HVAC systems. Their strength and resistance to harsh conditions make them indispensable in high-stakes environments.Landscaping and GardeningGalvanized screws are commonly used in the construction of:Raised garden beds.Trellises and pergolas.Retaining walls.How to Choose the Right Galvanized ScrewsConsider the conditions where the screws will be used. For outdoor or marine environments, hot-dip galvanized screws are more suitable due to their thicker zinc coating.Match the Screw to the MaterialUse wood screws for timber projects.Choose sheet metal screws for thin metals or plastics.Opt for lag screws when structural integrity is critical.Ensure the screw length is appropriate for the materials being fastened. Too short, and the connection may fail; too long, and it may damage the material.Choose coarse threads for soft materials like wood and fine threads for harder materials like metal.When using galvanized screws with other metals, ensure compatibility to prevent galvanic corrosion, which can occur when different metals react with each other.Maintenance and Installation TipsRegularly check for signs of wear, especially in structures exposed to extreme conditions. Replace any screws showing visible damage or rust to maintain safety and stability.Use screwdrivers or drills that match the screw head to prevent stripping. A properly seated screw not only looks better but also performs better over time.Over-tightening can strip the threads or damage the zinc coating, reducing the screws effectiveness. Tighten just enough to secure the materials without compromising the coating.Store galvanized screws in a dry, cool place to prevent premature corrosion or damage to the zinc coating before use.ConclusionGalvanized screws are a reliable, versatile, and cost-effective solution for projects that demand durability and resistance to the elements. Whether youre constructing a deck, building furniture, or working on an industrial installation, these screws offer the performance and longevity needed to ensure your project stands the test of time.By understanding their benefits, applications, and the criteria for choosing the right type, you can confidently select galvanized screws for your next project. Theyre more than just fastenerstheyre an investment in the strength and durability of your work.Construction Leave a comment

Mini CrosswordNYTIn case you missed Mondays NYT Mini, you can find the answers here:The NYT Mini is a quick and dirty version of the newspaper's larger and long-running crossword. Most days, there are between three and five clues in each direction on a five by five grid, but the puzzles are sometimes larger, especially on Saturdays.Unlike its larger sibling, the NYT Mini crossword is free to play on the New York Times website or NYT Games app. However, youll need an NYT Games subscription to access previous puzzles in the archives.The NYT Mini is a fun daily distraction that usually takes no time at all. I try to beat the standard weekday grid in less than a minute. But sometimes I can't quite figure out one or two clues and need to reveal the answer.To help you avoid doing that, here are the NYT Mini Crossword answers (spoilers lie ahead, of course):MORE FOR YOUNYT Mini Crossword Clues And AnswersACROSS1) Christmas ___ - EVE4) Hanker for, as Christmas cookies - CRAVE6) Instrument heard in many a Christmas hymn - ORGAN7) Rounded heap - MOUND8) Vintner's device - PRESSDOWN1) Proofreader's catch - ERROR2) Like a Christmas wish list that just says "toys" - VAGUE3) Chris of "Knives Out" - EVANS4) Provide free of charge - COMP5) Comes to a close - ENDSNYT MiniNYTWell, in the Chris clue it was either going to be Evans, Pine or Hemsworth, and only one fit that spot. They also tried to jam in a bunch of Christmas-related items in here including what day it is. I imagine the entire puzzle was based around that starter word. I am not sure if they are going to have one of these for Christmas Day, but I suppose you do need something to do on your phone after you open presents.Follow me on Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram.Pick up my sci-fi novels the Herokiller series and The Earthborn Trilogy.

Robotics specialist Boston Dynamics has posted a holiday message wishing everyone a season full of light and laughter as we flip over into the new year!The flip reference becomes apparent when you watch the accompanying video featuring its Atlas robot performing a flawless back somersault dressed in a Santa suit.You can watch it below:Happy Holidays | 2024 | Boston DynamicsNow, assuming that its not a human dressed as Santa, then youll surely agree that its a pretty amazing move for a robot. But truth be told, Atlas or a much earlier version of it has been performing backflips since at least 2017.Recommended VideosBoston Dynamics unveiled its bipedal Atlas robot in 2013 and over the years its engineers have brought a slew of remarkable improvements to its stability and range of movements. A major update to the robot came last spring when Boston Dynamics announced it was retiring the hydraulic-powered version of Atlas and replacing it with a fully electric version. The Massachussetts-based robotics company proudly described it as one of the most advanced humanoid robots ever built, adding that it was now stronger, more dexterous, and more agile, and able to move in ways that exceed human capabilities.Its also added new AI and machine learning tools, such as reinforcement learning and computer vision, to ensure they can operate and adapt efficiently to complex real-world situations.Just a couple of months ago, Boston Dynamics posted a video showing Atlas in a workplace environment, performing tasks that utilized its new, more advanced capabilities. The Hyundai-owned company also revealed that it wants to commercialize Atlas in a similar way to Spot, its impressive dog-like robot thats long been tested in a range of industrial settings.Its certainly a fascinating time for everyone whos working on Atlas as well as those of us following its progress and were already looking forward to seeing how the robot advances in 2025.Editors Recommendations

DEAR PATIENT: WE GOT HACKED Health care giant Ascension says 5.6 million patients affected in cyberattack Intrusion caused medical errors and diversion of emergency services. Dan Goodin Dec 23, 2024 12:21 pm | 33 Credit: iStock / Getty Images Plus Credit: iStock / Getty Images Plus Story textSizeSmallStandardLargeWidth *StandardWideLinksStandardOrange* Subscribers only Learn moreHealth care company Ascension lost sensitive data for nearly 5.6 million individuals in a cyberattack that was attributed to a notorious ransomware gang, according to documents filed with the attorney general of Maine.Ascension owns 140 hospitals and scores of assisted living facilities. In May, the organization was hit with an attack that caused mass disruptions as staff was forced to move to manual processes that caused errors, delayed or lost lab results, and diversions of ambulances to other hospitals. Ascension managed to restore most services by mid-June. At the time, the company said the attackers had stolen protected health information and personally identifiable information for an undisclosed number of people.Investigation concludedA filing Ascension made earlier in December revealed that nearly 5.6 million people were affected by the breach. Data stolen depended on the particular person but included individuals' names and medical information (e.g., medical record numbers, dates of service, types of lab tests, or procedure codes), payment information (e.g., credit card information or bank account numbers), insurance information (e.g., Medicaid/Medicare ID, policy number, or insurance claim), governmentidentification (e.g., Social Security numbers, tax identification numbers, drivers license numbers, or passport numbers), and other personal information (such as date of birth or address).Ascension is now in the process of notifying affected individuals. The organization is also offering two years of credit and fraud monitoring, a $1 million insurance reimbursement policy, and managed ID theft recovery services. The services became effective last Thursday.According to CNN, the attack on Ascension was the work of Black Basta. The ransomware group never took credit for the breach, and neither did any other group, an indication Ascension may have paid a ransom in exchange for the attackers not releasing stolen data publicly. The US Department of Health and Human Services has ranked the breach as the third-largest health care-related breach of this year."Since the May ransomware attack, we have been working with third-party experts to investigate what individuals data may have been involved in this incident," Ascension said in a post on its website. "That review of the data is now complete, and starting today Ascension will begin the process of notifying individuals whose personal information was involved in this incident and providing them with complimentary credit monitoring and identity protection services."Dan GoodinSenior Security EditorDan GoodinSenior Security Editor Dan Goodin is Senior Security Editor at Ars Technica, where he oversees coverage of malware, computer espionage, botnets, hardware hacking, encryption, and passwords. In his spare time, he enjoys gardening, cooking, and following the independent music scene. Dan is based in San Francisco. Follow him at here on Mastodon and here on Bluesky. Contact him on Signal at DanArs.82. 33 Comments

The UK said it has live-fired its new anti-drone radio weapon that costs only about 10 pence to fire.It's been heralding such weapons as a cheap alternative to missile-based systems for killing drones.This weapon, the RFDEW, is said to kill drones from 1,000 meters away in land, air, and sea environments.The UK Defense Ministry said on Monday that it's successfully live-tested its new radio frequency weapon that can take down drone swarms for "less than the cost of a pack of mince pies.""A live firing trial was recently completed by the Army's Royal Artillery Trials and Development Unit and 7 Air Defence Group at a range in West Wales," it said in a statement. "Where they successfully targeted and engaged Uncrewed Aerial Systems, in a first for the British Armed Forces."The system is called the Radio Frequency Directed Energy Weapon, or RFDEW. The UK says it has a range of up to 1,000 meters, or about 1,093 yards, at an estimated cost of 10 pence, or about $0.13, per shot.The RFDEW uses high-frequency radio waves to detect, track, and then disable critical electronic components in the drones so that they become immobilized or fall out of the sky.It's meant to be versatile. The UK says the RFDEW can be deployed in land, air, and sea environments.Development of the weapon was announced in May, when officials described it as a cheaper alternative to traditional missile-based systems for fighting drones. The defense ministry said at the time that tests would be carried out over the summer.The UK said the RFDEW is mostly automated, meaning it can be operated by a single person and mounted onto a military vehicle.It's one of London's answers to the growing prominence of drone warfare, brought to the fore by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, where cheap drones have become a primary killing tool in the protracted conflict.The UK is also developing a vehicle-mounted laser beam weapon that fires shots costing 10 pence each, which it said has a range of 1,000 meters as well.That weapon was successfully tested too, the ministry said on December 11.Both systems were developed under a government program that partners with private firms such as Raytheon and Teledyne e2v.The UK also spent about $126 million developing DragonFire, another laser weapon system that uses high-concentrated energy beams to kill drones at less than $13 a shot.If these systems can be deployed at scale, their advertised low per-shot cost could be a major advantage for the UK. Traditional anti-drone tech that's already considered to be in the lower-cost range, such as the expendable Raytheon Coyote, can be priced at about $100,000 per munition.Militaries want to go far cheaper, amid a heightened awareness that any armed force from Russian and Ukrainian troops to Yemeni rebels can deliver deadly payloads at less than $1,000 through commercial drone parts.The US is developing a weapon similar to the RFDEW that uses microwaves to fry drone parts and disable swarms. It looks like a container with a satellite dish and is called the Tactical High-power Operational Responder, or THOR.In April 2023, the US Air Force said it had successfully tested THOR against a drone swarm.Such technologies are also becoming more mainstream in Ukraine. Kvertus, a company based in Kyiv, sells a handheld "anti-drone gun" that it says can knock out drones with radio frequencies.