"Feels surreal to be homeless after living in so much abundance and beauty."Foundation ModelKieth Wasserman, a wealthy Los Angeles-based real estate mogul and Elon Musk fanboy, became the target of widespread mockery after begging for "private firefighters" to come protect his home as the city was being ravaged by wildfires last week.Netizens accused the real estate investment company cofounder and CEO of becoming the poster child of late-stage capitalism, pointing out he had previously called for cutting taxes something that would put additional strain on publicly-funded firefighters.Unfortunately for Wasserman, his pleas were to no avail. His home in the Palisades neighborhood burned down to the ground, according to online records examined by the New York Post."I feel like I lost a part of my soul losing our home that [my wife] spent so much time meticulously creating for our family," he wrote in a Facebook post. "I miss the Palisades so much. Feels surreal to be homeless after living in so much abundance and beauty."Now, Wasserman is looking for housing."If you know of any available for rent in Santa Monica, Brentwood, Beverly Hills, Holmby Hills, or Cheviot Hills that is 4br+ please let us know as it is a feeding frenzy to try to find alternative housing," he wrote.Feeding FrenzyOf course, thousands of less privileged residents are in a far more dire situation, with experts predicting an even worse housing crisis in the area following the fires.Worst of all, housing in the LA areawas already notoriously expensive. Now that thousands of homes have been burned down, residents are worried about skyrocketing rents and home prices."Dozens and dozens of people are going after the same properties," Compass real estate agent David Berg told the LA Times. "Since Tuesday afternoon, our phones have rung hundreds of times."Fortunately,California forbids landlords from raising rents by more than ten percent following an emergency like this month's fires.But whether that actually stops profiteering remains to be seen, with many arguing that those rules aren't being effectively enforced."Some of the properties, they add up almost 50 percent to the rent," real estate agent Heidi Jensen told the LA Times. "I think its just so unethical and not nice to do this with people that are in need."Share This Article

All products featured on Architectural Digest are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.In our search for the best shower curtains, we found theres more to consider than just how it will prevent water from splashing onto your floor. Taking up a significant amount of visual real estate in your bathroom, they can define the entire style of the space.The bathroom may not be the first space in your home youd think to decorate, but it is one youll spend a lot of time in. Finding a shower curtain that marries together style and functionality can quickly take the space from dingy to spa-like. Going for a minimalist look? Amp up neutral hues by playing with texture, like a waffle weave or sleek vinyl shower curtain. If bright colors are more your vibe, opt for a vibrant shower curtain to serve as the focal point for your bathroom.No matter your interior design style, a high-quality shower curtain is a must. Feeling refreshed after a shower isnt quite as relaxing if youre worried about mildew buildup or water dripping everywhere. Between fabric, plastic, and water-resistant picks, weve collected a lineup of effective shower curtains that are also a breezy way to revamp your bathroom decor.Top Picks:Best Overall: Boll & Branch Organic Cotton Waffle Shower Curtain, $109 at Boll & BranchBest Printed: Henri Matisse The Pink Studio Shower Curtain by Jon Baran, $47 at Society6Best Linen: Quince European Linen Shower Curtain, $50 at QuinceBest Modern: Quiet Town Sun Shower Curtain, $42 at West ElmBest Budget: West Lake Blue White Vertical Stripe Shower Curtain, $17 at AmazonBest Abstract: CB2 Abstract Shower Curtain, $70 at CB2Boll & Branch Waffle Shower CurtainRachel FletcherRachel Fletcher1/31Boll & Branch Organic Cotton Waffle Shower CurtainThis waffle weave shower curtain feels substantial and adds texture while still sticking to neutral tones. Our commerce director Rachel Fletcher calls it her Tried and true, perfectly perfect, classic white shower curtain. Its available in both white and a very light gray, both of which would make a space feel open and airy. Plus, Boll & Branch makes some of the best bath towels weve come across, so you can outfit your whole space in one go. And if you're looking to keep your curtain looking fresh, follow this tip from Rachel: I pair it with a washable liner and bleach every few months to keep it looking good as new.Material: CottonDimensions: 73x73.5"Machine washable? YesHenri Matisse The Pink Studio Shower Curtain2/31Henri Matisse The Pink Studio Shower Curtain by Jon Baran Art history buffs and museum dwellers alike will appreciate this design. The vibrant option pays homage to Henri Matisses 1911 oil painting The Pink Studio.Material: PolyesterDimensions: 71x74"Machine washable? YesQuince European Linen Shower Curtain3/31Quince European Linen Shower CurtainLinen makes any room feel a little more natural and beachy, but it can also get pricey. Quinces lower-priced (but still high-quality) linen shower curtain is substantial and prewashed for optimal softness.Material: Flax linenDimensions: 72" squareMachine washable? NoBoho Pom Pom Tassel Shower Curtain4/31Boho Pom Pom Tassel Shower CurtainHow do you add flair to a solid color curtain? Pom-poms, of course. Seen here in dark linen, the cotton-blend curtain is also available in light gray and off-white. (The pom-poms are removable, so you can throw the curtain itself into the wash.)Material: CottonDimensions: 72" squareMachine washable? Yes, with pom poms removed before washCrate & Barrel Merrow Stitch Shower Curtain5/31Crate & Barrel Merrow Stitch Black & White Shower CurtainThis organic cotton shower curtain is a minimalist dream. The stitched edges add a striking contrast to make the white feel anything but boring.Material: Cotton and polyesterDimensions: 72" squareMachine washable? YesQuiet Town Sun Shower Curtain6/31Quiet Town Sun Shower CurtainSimple yet eye-catching, this water-resistant Quiet Town pick will add a burst of color to your bathroom. It can be used by itself or as a shower liner if you want more privacy with an opaque shower curtain.Material: EVA PlasticDimensions: 72" squareMachine washable? NoWest Lake Stripe Shower Curtain7/31West Lake Blue White Vertical Stripe Shower CurtainThis water-resistant shower curtain features vertical stripes and comes in four different colorways so that you can match it to your taste. The bright blue adds a bright pop of color while maintaining a subdued nautical feel.Material: PolyesterDimensions: 70x72"Machine washable? YesCB2 Abstract Shower Curtain8/31CB2 Falazo Abstract Shower CurtainThe abstract line design on this shower curtain creates a sense of movement for any minimalist bathroom. Made of 100% organic cotton, its also built to last.Material: CottonDimensions: 72" squareMachine washable? YesBirch Lane Houston Scallop Shower Curtain9/31Birch Lane Houston Shower CurtainScalloped edges invoke a coastal feel, and who wouldnt want their shower to feel as peaceful as lounging by the ocean? Contrast stitching highlights the scalloped detail in four available colors reminiscent of the sea, sky, and sand.Material: Polyster, cotton, viscose, nylonDimensions: 72" squareMachine washable? YesBrooklinen Micro Waffle Shower Curtain10/31Brooklinen Micro Waffle Shower CurtainMirroring their best-selling bath towels, Brooklinens shower curtain features a waffle weave. This texture makes for a fast-drying, lightweight, and durable fabric that will last shower after shower (particularly if you pair it with a shower liner).Material: CottonDimensions: 72" squareMachine washable? YesAnthropologie Lucretia Shower Curtain11/31Anthropologie Lucretia Shower CurtainThis botanical-printed jacquard shower curtain adds a touch of traditional luxury to any bathroom, but we love the contrast with a dark wall. Pair it with a plastic shower curtain liner and itll hang in there the long haul.Material: Cotton jacquardDimensions: 72" squareMachine washable? YesDusen Dusen Curtina Reversible Shower Curtain12/31Dusen Dusen Curtina Shower CurtainConsistently switching up your decor? This bright fabric shower curtain from Dusen Dusen is reversible, so you get two eye-catching designs in one. Plus, you can toss it in the washing machine before youre planning on switching sides.Material: CottonDimensions: 70" squareMachine washable? YesRhode Thistle Shower Curtain13/31RHODE Thistle Shower CurtainCreated in collaboration with lifestyle brand Rhode, this vintage-inspired cotton shower curtain provides both color and texture with its thistle print and ruffled hem. The built-in buttonholes make it a breeze to attach with a set of shower hooks.Material: CottonDimensions: 72x74"Machine washable? YesDakota Fields Suna Linen Shower Curtain14/31Dakota Fields Suna Linen Shower CurtainThis linen shower curtain is another water-repellent pick on this list, meaning itll keep your bathroom dry while adding a touch of bohemian flair. Plus, it comes with 12 hooks, so its ready to hang straight out of the box.Material: LinenDimensions: 84x72", 96x72"Machine washable? YesGeometric Watercolor Shower Curtain15/31Geometric Watercolor Shower CurtainThis polyester shower curtainfrom Etsy is fast-drying, and has many five-star reviews, with satisfied buyers agreeing that the highly photogenic ombre is a handsome choice to brighten up your washroom routine.Material: PolyesterDimensions: 71x74"Machine Washable?: YesPeri Home Panama Shower Curtain16/31Peri Home Panama Shower CurtainStripes and tassles? Yes, please. This Amazon find has racked up more than 250 glowing reviews, like this one: I love the look, the tassels, and the length. The tassels allowed me to hang the curtains higher. The color is exactly what I expected. These curtains brighten up my bathroom. Turns out were not the only ones who appreciate a great shower curtain!Material: CottonDimensions: 72" squareMachine washable? YesTititex Green Eucalyptus Shower Curtain17/31Tititex Green Eucalyptus Shower CurtainIf your bathroom doesnt quite have room for a collection of eucalyptus plants, you can still integrate them into your design with this fresh floral shower curtain. Though you can still pair it with a liner, the curtain itself is completely waterproof so that you dont have to worry about mildew.Material: PolyesterDimensions: 72x72", 36x72", 60x72", 72x78", 72x84"Machine washable? YesAnthropologie Astrid Ruffled Shower Curtain

Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube792kIn case you missed it, the famous video game mascot Lara Croft returns in Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered next month on Valentine's Day.In the lead up, Aspyr has been showcasing certain aspects of the game, and the latest trailer showcases the many boss battles Lara will encounter across this trilogy of games. Pre-orders for the collection have also gone live on Nintendo's eShop.There's currently a sale as well in selection regions, reducing the game from $29.99 / 26.99 or $26.99 / 24.29 (that's 10% off).Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube792kWatch on YouTube This remastered collection will include not only the original graphics but also the new remastered graphics, which you can once again swap between on the fly. Here's a bit more about each game (via Nintendo.com):Tomb Raider: The Last Revelation Lara Croft discovers the lost tomb of the Egyptian God Set, unwittingly unleashing him and fulfilling an ancient prophecyone that plunges mankind into darkness.Tomb Raider: Chronicles Following the events of The Last Revelation, Lara Croft is buried in an Egyptian tomb and is presumed dead. At her memorial, those closest to her reminisce about secrets from her past.Tomb Raider: The Angel of Darkness Accused of murder, Lara becomes a fugitive on the run, while uncovering a sinister conspiracy involving alchemical experiments and the search for ancient artifacts.In some related news, Aspyr is also releasing Star Wars: Episode I: Jedi Power Battles next week on 23rd January 2025. Smile, LaraFixes, changes, improvements and much moreI've got a bad feeling about thisWill you be grabbing this next Lara Croft collection? Let us know in the comments.Related GamesSee AlsoShare: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 ArticlesReview: Donkey Kong Country Returns HD (Switch) - Aping A Retro ClassicThat's what you get for not hailing to the chimpTalking Point: Everyone Else Is Busy Revealing Switch 2 - What Gives, Nintendo?It's the notes you don't play

Nvidia has been doubling down on the opportunity to build robotics and other industrial AI applications, with the launch of its Omniverse platform, and most recently Mega, an Omniverse Blueprint framework to create digital twins to operate these applications. Its also investing in digital twin startups to get the effort off the ground. Taiwans MetAI has developed a model that can quickly generate SimReady (simulation-ready) digital twins using AI and 3D technology, by converting CAD files into functional 3D environments within minutes. Now Nvidia is backing MetAI in its first round of funding, a $4 million seed round that becomes the chip giants first investment into a Taiwanese startup. Others in the round are a mix of other strategic and financial investors, including Kenmec Mechanical Engineering, Solomon Technology, SparkLabs Taiwan, Addin Ventures, and Upstream Ventures.The next wave of AI,known asgenerative physical AI, relies on physically accurate simulated environments to train and validate robots used in autonomous systems, to build operational AI before deployment. MetAI contends that the digital twins that it helps create will be central to that effort. Digital twins have long been seen as a barrier to entry for physical AI due to the months or even years of effort required for development, said Daniel Yu, CEO and co-founder of MetAI, in an interview.MetAI focuses on AI-powered digital twins tailored to advanced semiconductor fabs, smart warehousesand automation. It also generates synthetic data within AI-enabled digital twin environments.Renton Hsu, Yus co-founder and the CTO of MetAI, has a background in 3D engineering and AI, and he first got to working with digital twins while building enterprise AI software applications: they were used as a practical workaround in situations where clients lacked enough data to train their systems. He then realised he could apply the same to 3D systems, integrating 3D technology with AI to develop synthetic AI and 3D solutions, joining forces with Yu (who comes to the startup with experience in digital transformation projects) and a third co-founder, Dave Liu (COO), to start MetAI. The breakthrough was enough to win first place in a a competition run by Nvidia, making Hsu a Jetson AI ambassador for the country. MetAIs competitors are the range of large and small companies that have built digital twin technologies for manufacturing. They include Siemens Digital Industries, Dassault Systemes, Hexagon AB, Duality AI, and Intagles. In the synthetic data sector, there are scores of companies, including Sky Engine and Scale AI.MetAI believes that it has a unique approach compared to all of these. Unlike competitorsthat prioritizeoperational efficiencies or IoT integrations, MetAI leverages generative models and AI-driven layouts to create digital twins designed for physical AI training and implementation in real-world operations, Yu said. This approach not only accelerates the creation of digital twins but also ensures their direct usability for advanced automation systems like robotics, bridging the gap between simulation and reality.MetAI differentiates itself by producing artificial data within its AI-enabled digital twin environments. Yu noted that it enables users to generate synthetic data customized for specific operational requirements, facilitating AI training and validation. Instead of creating isolated datasets, MetAI builds dynamic virtual worlds (i.e., world simulators) realistic virtual environments that operate exactly like the real world, he said.Collabs with Nvidia and KenmecThe two-year-old startup whose products range from vertical AI agents through to digital twins has a handful of customers and is already generating revenues by partnering with enterprises in the manufacturing and automation industries, and this year it expects to bring in $3 million from a single project, Yu said.Revenueis derivedfrom project-based income, product subscriptions, and licensing fees from ongoing developments, he added.MetAIs integration with NVIDIA Omniverse represents a transformative step forward for industrial digital twins and physical AI in simulations,Nico Caprez, corporate development manager at Nvidia, said in a statement. Their ability to create scalable environments for AI training will potentially set a new standard for industries ranging from manufacturing to robotics.In 2023, MetAI collaborated with Kenmec to create digital twins for automated warehouses. MetAIs technology claims to have drastically reduced the time needed for warehouse digital twin simulations from thousands of hours to just 3 minutes, resulting in significant savings in operational and verification tasks.With the latest funding, MetAI plans to expand its R&D team for faster development and execution of its go-to-market strategies to meet growing demand. On top of that, the Taiwan-based startup intends to establish a U.S. office and relocate its headquarters in the second half of 2025, Yu told TechCrunch.Taiwan serves as our testing ground, where we collaborate with Taiwanese industry leaders to integrate deep vertical knowledge into our models, ensuring our solutions are both robust and scalable, Liu said.Given its size and the demand for simulation-driven solutions, we are expanding the U.S. market due to high labor costs and operational complexities. Our expansion strategy focuses on providing both pointsolutionsand end-to-end solutions, including SaaS offerings and vertical AI agents designed for rapid implementation in real-world scenarios within these industries.

At next week's event, we're looking forward to Samsung's Galaxy S25 lineup, new AI features, perhaps a Galaxy Ring 2, smart glasses - and more. See what's coming.

CHICAGO, IL - JUNE 13: Patricio Pitbull (Photo by Amy Kaplan/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)Icon Sportswire via Getty ImagesOn Tuesday, Donn Davis, the owner of the Professional Fighters League, made a statement. He granted Patricio Pitbull what appears to be his unconditional release.How Did Pitbull Wind Up Getting His Release From the PFL?On the same day the PFL issued a statement about their removal of the Bellator brand from its main rotation of events and title designations, Pitbull took to social media with his latest anti-PFL rant.Pitbull used the UFCs recent release of Holly Holm as an example of how an organization should treat a legend of the sport. Pitbull did what was best for him, and he got what he wanted. It was smart for him to put pressure on the PFL, and it was subsequently wise for the PFL to rid themselves of the negative element Pitbull had become.Pitbull is Expected to Sign With the UFCAs it stands, most expect Pitbull to land with the UFC. He has made it clear thats where he would like to be. Dana White was asked about the potential of Pitbull joining his organization, and he seemed open to the concept, though he didnt speak specifically about the Brazilian legend.MORE FOR YOUAt 37 years old, it seems unlikely Pitbull will go on a tear that would lead to him becoming a UFC world champion. However, he is as tough and respected as they come in mixed martial arts.Based on his reputation and aura, he could have some fun fights with the UFC over the next three years.5 Ideal Opponents for Pitbull in His UFC DebutMichael ChandlerNEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 16: Michael Chandler of the United States of America looks on during a ... [+] lightweight fight against Charles Oliveira of Brazil during the UFC 309 event at Madison Square Garden on November 16, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)Getty ImagesLike Pitbull, Chandler is a former Bellator champion and legend with the promotion. They never fought while both were with the organization, mostly because Pitbull is a featherweight and Chandler a lightweight.That said, is it out of the realm of possibility for Pitbull to fight at 155 pounds? If not, this fight would have a special vibe because of the Bellator history, and both men bring an all-action style.Jose AldoSALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - OCTOBER 05: Jose Aldo of Brazil is seen in his locker room prior to his fight ... [+] during the UFC 307 event at Delta Center on October 05, 2024 in Salt Lake City, Utah. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Zuffa LLC)Zuffa LLCBoth Aldo and Pitbull are Brazilian legends. At one point, this was a dream fight we thought wed never see because Aldo was a UFC champion and Pitbull a champ in Bellator.Aldo would have to come back up to featherweight, but that wouldnt seem like a major issue for him. If Pitbull lands with the UFC, this fight seems like a no-brainer.Max HollowayABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - OCTOBER 25: Max Holloway poses on the scale during the UFC 308 ... [+] ceremonial weigh-in at Etihad Arena on October 25, 2024 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)Zuffa LLCHolloways next fight will be his debut as a full-time lightweight. Again, Pitbull would have to come up in weight, but in this instance, hed be doing it against a fellow legend who has spent the majority of his career at 145 pounds.Pitbulls team has suggested he would covet the BMF title. How good of a BMF Title fight would this be?Alexander VolkanovskiSYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - OCTOBER 17: Alex Volkanovski poses during a UFC media opportunity at Hickson ... [+] Road Reserve, on October 17, 2024 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Zuffa LLC)Zuffa LLCPitbull has already called Volkanovski out.Volk has a championship on his mind, and it feels like he is in line to get another crack at Ilia Topuria when he returns. However, if Volk doesnt get the rematch with Topuria, he might be the perfect guy to welcome Pitbull to the UFC.Cub SwansonTAMPA, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 14: Cub Swanson reacts after a knockout victory against Billy Quarantillo ... [+] in a featherweight fight during the UFC Fight Night event at Amalie Arena on December 14, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)Zuffa LLCSwanson flirted with retirement after his highlight-reel KO of Billy Quarantillo in December 2024, but he seemed open to another fight if it was against an intriguing opponent.Pitbull would seemingly qualify. If Pitbull comes in and handles Swanson impressively, it might be enough to land a spot in the featherweight rankings. If he loses to Swanson, itll tell the UFC something about where he is at this stage of his career. In any case, this fight could be epic.Bonus - Josh EmmettPHILADELPHIA, PA - MARCH 30: Josh Emmett reacts after knocking out Michael Johnson in their ... [+] featherweight bout during the UFC Fight Night event at Wells Fargo Center on March 30, 2019 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)Zuffa LLC via Getty ImagesI decided to add Emmett as the last and perhaps most practical option. Emmett is looking to make a statement so he can restart his ascent up the featherweight rankings, and Im sure Pitbull would like to start his UFC career off as a ranked fighter.A win would put Pitbull a win or two away from a title shot, and thats got to be an attractive concept for him.

TL;DR: USB-C support on the latest iPhones gives users one less proprietary cable to worry about, however, it could also pave the way for future security vulnerabilities. Although no hacking incidents targeting the device's USB-C controller have been reported yet, early research suggests that accessing the controller's firmware and executing code is technically feasible. Security researcher Thomas Roth recently uncovered several vulnerabilities in Apple's ACE3 USB-C controller for the iPhone 15 and 16. Although no immediate action is required from users, and these vulnerabilities don't affect Android devices, Roth's findings underscore the possibility of future attack methods being developed.At the 38th Chaos Communication Congress in Hamburg last month, Roth demonstrated two advanced techniques side-channel analysis and electromagnetic fault injection on Apple's USB-C controller. Notably, he successfully dumped the firmware.While extracting the firmware alone won't directly enable cyberattacks, it provides malicious actors with an opportunity to analyze the code, identify vulnerabilities, and potentially develop malware to exploit them. Apple has opted not to take action at this time, citing the complexity of Roth's methods. However, if attackers use the dumped firmware as a foundation for discovering security flaws, the company may be forced to respond.One potential response could involve revising the hardware in future iPhone models. Any emerging issues would likely impact iPhones expected in the next few years, including the rumored iPhone SE 4, which is expected to debut this March, and the iPhone 17 family anticipated later this year. More radical hardware revisions, such as the long-rumored foldable iPhone, could include enhanced security measures to address such risks.Apple was forced to add USB-C support on the iPhone to comply with recent European regulations mandating all mobile devices to include USB-C charging ports. Formal standardization benefits consumers by eliminating the need for proprietary cables, though in this instance it could be argued it's opened the door to new security challenges for Apple to pay attention to.New X-ray scanning techniques have revealed that USB-C cables could contain a surprising amount of hidden hardware. Cables produced by disreputable manufacturers could be used to distribute malware or steal data, and distinguishing these from legitimate cables might require advanced tools that average consumers do not have. Exposing the firmware for Apple's USB-C controller could facilitate similar attacks in the future. // Related StoriesHowever, there is a silver lining. Dumping the firmware has also produced positive outcomes. Independent repair specialists have already used Roth's research to gain valuable insights into diagnosing and repairing Macs.Apple and other tech companies have faced criticism in the past for obstructing user or third-party repair efforts, often requiring customers to pay exorbitant fees for authorized service. Roth's findings could help shift the balance toward greater repairability and transparency.

Digital TrendsA malware originating from China has now been contained after the FBI gained a court order to have the harmful code deleted from thousands of Windows PCs.The agency has successfully put an end to the reign of the PlugX malware in the U.S., which has affected over 2.5 million devices globally by infiltrating infected USB drives, PCMag noted.Recommended VideosWorking with the FBI, the Justice Department has confirmed that it has been granted court sanction to remove the malware from nearly 4,260 computers and networks in the U.S. as of Tuesday. With the resolution announced, the FBI is set to notify owners of infected machines via their internet service providers. This is just one instance of federal departments getting control of a serious cybersecurity risk. However, its resolution notes the importance of ongoing cybersecurity research. The Justice Department detailed that the actors behind the attack are a private group of Chinese state-sponsored hackers called Mustang Panda that developed a unique version of PlugX malware for the ongoing mission.PlugX first surfaced in 2008 when it was used as a backdoor vulnerability for bad actors to secretly control Windows machines. By 2020, the malware had been updated to allow it to infiltrate USB drives as well as connected PCs. This is described as a wormable malware that can transfer between computers via infected peripherals.French cybersecurity vendor Sekoia observed that Mustang Panda eventually lacked the resources to support the number of machines it had infected with the PlugX malware and ultimately abandoned the project.Similarly, antivirus provider Sophos observed several PlugX infections originating from a single IP address source. In September 2023, collaborating with Sekoia, the cybersecurity vendor paid just $7 to gain access to the IP address and the infected machines. Further research uncovered a self-delete command within the PlugX code.In July 2024, law enforcement in France allowed the self-deleting mechanism to be used to remedy the infected machines. Since then, 22 other countries have also followed suit.While it is not clear how the U.S. entities plan to remove the malware from domestic PCs, the FBI testified in an affidavit that it has tested this self-delete command, confirming that it only removes the malware and does not affect any other device functions or transfer any other unwarranted code.

Jharrel Jerome and Jennifer Lopez star in a formula-bound biopic that depicts the rise of wrestler Anthony Robles, who despite being born with one leg became a Division I champion.

Cleaning house After CEO exit, Sonos gets rid of its chief product officer, too Sonos won't replace Maxime Bouvat-Merlin in "redundant" role. Scharon Harding Jan 14, 2025 5:37 pm | 26 Credit: Sonos Credit: Sonos Story textSizeSmallStandardLargeWidth *StandardWideLinksStandardOrange* Subscribers only Learn moreA day after announcing that CEO Patrick Spence is departing the company, Sonos revealed that chief product officer Maxime Bouvat-Merlin is also leaving. Bouvat-Merlin had the role since 2023.As first reported by Bloomberg, Sonos will not fill the chief product officer role. Instead, Tom Conrad, the interim CEO Sonos announced yesterday, will take on the role's responsibilities. In an email to staff cited by Bloomberg (you can read the letter in its entirety at The Verge), Conrad explained:With my stepping in as CEO, the board, Max, and I have agreed that my background makes the chief product officer role redundant. Therefore, Maxs role is being eliminated and the product organization will report directly to me. Ive asked Max to advise me over the next period to ensure a smooth transition and I am grateful that hes agreed to do that.In May, Sonos released an update to its app that led to customers, many of them long-time users, revolting over broken features, like accessibility capabilities and the ability to set timers. Sonos expects that remedying the app and Sonos' reputation will cost it at least $20 million to $30 million.As head of the company, Spence received a lot of blame and has also been criticized for not apologizing for the problems until July. However, numerous reports have also attributed blame to Bouvat-Merlin.Today, The Verge noted that "some employees" have told it that Bouvat-Merlin is largely responsible for the reputation loss associated with the app and for the decision to rush the app's release. Former and current employees have said that the app was pushed out prematurely so that it could be available for Sonos' first wireless headphones, which came out in June. Spence admitted in August that after Sonos released the app "it became evident that there were stubborn bugs we had not discovered in our testing."In September, two former employees told Bloomberg that ahead of what would be a disastrous app launch, Bouvat-Merlin forced chaotic reorganizations that separated people who had worked together for years.Bouvat-Merlin also failed to assuage customer frustrations when he responded to customer complaints in May by telling The Verge that it "takes courage to rebuild a brands core product from the ground up and to do so knowing it may require taking a few steps back to ultimately leap into the future."With Sonos committed to using the new app and expanding its products, including mobile audio devices that rely on the cloud, more changes are expected for the brand. So far, that has meant removing two company leaders from their positions.Scharon HardingSenior Technology ReporterScharon HardingSenior Technology Reporter Scharon is a Senior Technology Reporter at Ars Technica writing news, reviews, and analysis on consumer gadgets and services. She's been reporting on technology for over 10 years, with bylines at Toms Hardware, Channelnomics, and CRN UK. 26 Comments