submitted by /u/decaffeinatedcool [link] [comments]

ExoFebruaryExoborne, the exollent-looking exosuit extraction shooter, is hosting a playtest soon - and you can sign up right nowSharkmob's next big shooter, Exoborne, will be opening its doors to players in February, giving many their first chance at going hands-on with the game.Image credit: Sharkmob News by Sherif Saed Contributing Editor Published on Jan. 17, 2025 You know that 2025 is well and truly underway because were starting to get news and updates about games we expect to play this year. Exoborne is one such game, and itll be letting some lucky few play it for the first time next month.Exoborne is the new game from Sharkmob, the team behind the ill-fated (but beloved) Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodhunt, and its already generated a lot of positive buzz from the few times its been shown to the public last year.To see this content please enable targeting cookies. Exoborne is an extraction, PvPvE shooter whose main mechanic revolves around the use of the Exo-Rigs, which not only help you navigate the world of the game and pull off stunts measly non-exod humans cannot, they also act as platforms that factor into your loadout and play style.As is pretty much the standard in extraction games, youll be inserting into a highly-contested zone where AI factions fight each other - and you. Other players, often vying for same loot, will be dropping in all across the map. Another major element in Exobornes gameplay is its chaotic weather system, which effectively creates another element of danger you also have to contend with.This next playtest will be available on PC through Steam. It kicks off Wednesday, February 12 at 5am PT, 8am ET, 1pm UK. Youll be able to play until Monday, February 17 - which should be long enough for most to get a few hours of gameplay in. All you need to do is hit the Request Access button on Exobornes Steam page, and youll be notified by Steam if youre chosen. To see this content please enable targeting cookies.We played Exoborne in August last year, when Connor also talked to members of the Sharkmob team about how the studio plans to avoid another Bloodhunt situation. The live service space has gotten even more brutal since the end of Bloodhunts service. Were now seeing games that spent years in development get shuttered before they even have a chance to make a case for themselves, so the odds are certainly not in anyones favour there - but you cant ever bet against great gameplay.

Slice to killSwitch eShop - New ReleasesArcade Archives VS. FAMILY TENNIS (HAMSTER, 9th Jan, $7.99) - "VS. FAMILY TENNIS" is a sports game released by NAMCO (Bandai Namco Entertainment) in 1987. Choose yourself and your opponent from 16 unique characters and start the match. Toy with your opponent by hitting shots of different speeds and heights.BACKROOMS INSIDE THE ESCAPE (RandomSpin Games, 16th Jan, $9.99) - Venture through a labyrinth of seemingly endless, creepily familiar corridors based on popular Creepypasta lore. Experience the terror with high-quality graphics that bring the eerie environment to life, and envelop yourself in a soundscape of detailed 3D audio that enhances every haunting whisper and distant footstep. The atmosphere is thick with dread, filled with puzzles that challenge the mind and screamers that test your resolve, ensuring a pulse-pounding journey into the unknown.Bonk! (Folkert Hoogenraad, 10th Jan, $8.99) - You and your friends are invited to Bonks private island to play a simple game: the last one still on the island, wins! Play as one of many adorable characters to push your friends to the brink - and past it. Choose from several different environments and challenges. Be aware that your world may change, tremble or even fall apart as you play! Find fun items and tools to better beat your furry friends, such as branches and acorns. From snowballs to blow darts, blast away!Cavern Adventurers (Kairosoft, 16th Jan, $10.80) - In a faraway fantasy kingdom, everything was peaceful. . . Until monsters started pouring out of a hole in the ground! Put together a team of adventurers to secure, explore, and develop a vast underground network of caves in this cavern management simulator. Your adventurers will face all kinds of challenges in the underground, but there's no obstacle you can't deal with if you know how. Place torches to light up the darkness, build bridges to traverse gorges, and use explosives to clear away large rocks!Critical Strike Shooter: SWAT Rescue Missions (16BIT, 4th Jan, $1.99) - Prepare for an adrenaline-pumping experience as you step into the shoes of an elite SWAT operative in "Critical Strike Shooter: SWAT Rescue Missions". Immerse yourself in heart-pounding first-person action and lead your squad to victory in intense hostage rescue scenarios. Are you ready to become the ultimate savior in this thrilling shooter game?Decoration Rush (NOSTRA GAMES, 16th Jan, $4.99) - Grab your team and start the race to become the best decorator. You can combine sport and beauty. Be careful because your opponents have the same goals! The gameplay is so easy and addictive that you will never want to stop. Run away! Save yourselves, while you still can!District: Evolution (TROOOZE, 16th Jan, $19.99) - With hyper-realistic environments and character modeling, along with intricate lighting effects, you'll feel like you're actually on the battlefield. Join the resistance group District to fight against the powerful CrispBio Corporation, using three characters - Assault, Support and Sniper - each with unique weapon characteristics for strategic gameplay and to showcase your exceptional combat skills in battles against enemies.Dragons vs. Balloons TD (Kanuni Games, 9th Jan, $12.00) - Prepare yourself for an epic battle in Dragons vs. Balloons TD, where strategy, power, and mythical beasts meet in an exciting tower defense showdown! Take control of a legion of powerful dragons as you defend your territory from waves of mischievous and dangerous balloons.DreadOut Remastered Collection (SOFT SOURCE, 16th Jan, $29.99) - A collectors dream !! A compilation consisting of the original DreadOut and DreadOut : Keepers of the Dark About DreadOut: DreadOut is a third person supernatural horror game where you play as Linda, a high school student trapped in an old abandoned town.EGGCONSOLE CRIMSON PC-8801mkIISR (D4 Enterprise, 16th Jan, $6.49) - This game was released in 1987 in Japan as a role-playing game. The player learns from their bedridden mother that their father, who had gone missing, actually fell in battle against Crimson, leading them to vow to defeat Crimson.EGGCONSOLE Ys II MSX2 (D4 Enterprise, 9th Jan, $6.49) - "Ys II," an action RPG released by Nihon Falcom in 1988, with its catchphrase "From kindness to excitement." Known for its well-crafted storyline, user-friendly game system, and refined sound, the game became a major hit. Even today, with new releases, the name "Ys" is familiar to many gaming enthusiasts.ENDER MAGNOLIA-Bloom in the mist- (Binary Haze Interactive, 22nd Jan, $22.49) - STORYSet in the Land of Fumes, this prosperous magical superpower is home to vast quantities of magical resources lurking underneath the surface. In hopes of advancing their kingdom's development, artificial life forms known as Homunculi came into being. Regrettably, toxic Fumes from the underground drove the Homunculi to madness, turning them into feral monsters.Fables Mosaic: Little Red Riding Hood (Ocean Media, 9th Jan, $6.99) - Fables Mosaic: Little Red Riding Hood features a collection of colorful puzzles that can be solved by logic alone! Follow the story of Little Red Riding Hood while you solve captivating nonogram challenges! - 100 unique nonogram levels - Follow the story of Little Red Riding Hood - View a gallery of completed nonograms - Use logic to solve puzzlesGodsvivors (Afil Games, 16th Jan, $4.99) - Prepare to descend into the depths of the Underworld in Godsvivors! As a powerful god of Olympus, your mission is to challenge the ruler of the Underworld, Hades, and restore the balance of power. Battle through waves of demonic foes in this roguelite bullet-hell adventure, where every second counts. Survive 15 intense minutes to reach the final confrontation with Hades himself!Hand-Drawn Epic Adventures (COWCAT, 20th Jan, $26.99) - - BROK the InvestiGator: An innovative "Punch & Click" adventure mixed with beat 'em up and RPG elements. In a grim world where animals have replaced mankind, what kind of detective will you be? - Demetrios: A quirky adventure game inspired by classics, packed with humor! Both games are very friendly to newcomers in the genre, with in-game hints, hotspots viewer and accessibility.HYNPYTOL (base0, 16th Jan, $14.99) - HYNPYTOL (meaning "white blood cell" in Korean) is a retro-themed puzzle action adventure game. Embark on a journey to save a crumbling immune system as a chosen "Killer T", guided by a rather grumpy "Dendritic".Isolation Instinct: Farming, Craft, Survival (404 Games, 18th Jan, $9.99) - Step into the untamed wilderness of Isolation Instinct, a captivating open-world survival game where you are the architect of your own destiny. Carve a path through a vast forest teeming with life, danger, and opportunity. Every decision you make will impact your journey as you fight to survive and build a haven in the heart of nature.Jewel Match Solitaire 2 Collectors Edition (Ocean Media, 9th Jan, $9.99) - Travel the lands and collect resources to rebuild majestic monuments. Over 300 levels, plus 18 Solitaire variants including Klondike, Baker's Dozen, or Freecell!Lets Aim! Ring Toss (SAT-BOX, 16th Jan, $5.99) - Gear up for a carnival game classic: ring toss! Win as many prizes as you can and become a ring toss master! Let's enjoy playing ring toss on the Nintendo Switch! Share Joy-Con and play with up to 4 players! Aim for a new high score!Need for Race Street King (Yellow Ink, 17th Jan, $7.99) - Do you have what it takes to dominate the streets and become the ultimate racing legend? Start your journey as an ambitious street racer from a small town, chasing the dream to challenge the fiercest competitors in the bustling megapolises. Earn your reputation, customize your ride, and prove your skills on the most adrenaline-pumping tracks in the country!Once Again (AMATA, 8th Jan, $5.99) - If you could cross time and space, who would you like to see the most? In the usual boring summer, when the boy Natsu blows out the candles on his birthday cake, something unexpected happens. He crosses time and space and meets the person he has most wanted to meet in his life, but has never met. In that time-space, not only did Natsu meet that person, but that person taught him how to take photographs and capture lost time in the frame.Overdungeon (Pocketpair, 9th Jan, $7.49) - Overdungeon is a real-time action card game that combines roguelike, tower defense, and card games! It's easy to play with simple controls, is very replayable and a high degree of freedom! Conquer dungeons by combining cards selected from hundreds of cards! Is your trump card an alpaca? Or a dog or a cat? Or maybe a chicken? Build the strongest deck and challenge the dungeon!Pocket Puzzle (Penguin Pop Games, 8th Jan, $5.99) - In Pocket Puzzle, you'll position and align conveyor belt blocks in order to assemble the pieces of a handheld game device. Make sure the conveyor belts are placed and rotated so that the pieces are assembled in order, and dont bump into each other when they shouldnt. Pieces can also move through switches, which activate other conveyor belts in the level. Figure out the correct placements of the conveyor belts to solve each level!Princesses Lylop: Royal Puzzle Challenge (Cooking & Publishing, 9th Jan, $2.99) - Explore a magical world with 60 captivating images of beautiful princesses! From elegant and sophisticated portraits to enchanted landscapes and fantasy scenes, each puzzle offers a unique experience as you assemble the pieces, revealing details and vibrant colours that capture the grace and charm of these regal figures.Professor Doctor Jetpack (Roflcopter Ink, 16th Jan, $9.99) - Professor Doctor Jetpack is a physics based, pixel art, precision platformer, in which you embark on a dangerous journey to. . . control your jetpack. Join Albert Einstein's digital remains on his whacky quest to save the world from hidden threats, like The Internet.Puzzle Adventures Forest Animals (winterworks, 6th Jan, $6.99) - Easy to use puzzles for ages two and up. Featuring funny and cute animal motifs with 30 unique puzzles. 100% frustration free and child-safe. Welcome to the world of puzzle adventures! Today we're going on a journey to the animals of the forest!Puzzle Adventures Sea Animals (winterworks, 6th Jan, $6.99) -Easy to use puzzles for ages two and up. Featuring funny and cute animal motifs with 30 unique puzzles. 100% frustration free and child-safe. Welcome to the world of puzzle adventures! Today we're taking a dive to the animals of the sea!Rodgerbints: Romance and Scandal in High Society (Cooking & Publishing, 9th Jan, $4.99) - Step into a visual novel full of glamour, intrigue and romance. Live the life of a powerful family caught in a whirlwind of rivalries, forbidden loves and dark secrets. Meet key characters, form complex relationships and make decisions that will affect everyone's destiny. From passionate love triangles to life-changing scandals, every choice counts.Roller-Skating (GAME NACIONAL, 4th Jan, $0.99) - This is a pixel art roller-skating game where you must showcase your skills by dodging and jumping over various obstacles along the way. A tribute to retro games from the golden age of video games.Runny Bunny (eastasiasoft, 15th Jan, $3.99) - Play as a frantic little bunny as you dash between floors, walls and ceilings collecting power dots and yummy carrots. Mazelike stages will take you from grassy wilds to twisted caverns and deadly laboratories. The bunny moves in lightning quick straight lines and clings to walls and ceilings, but youll still need to strategically maneuver him around traps and enemies to keep him safe from harm.Shadows of Steam (Ultimate Games, 16th Jan, $7.99) - In Shadows of Steam, step into the shoes of private detective Alex Mercer as you navigate the labyrinthine streets of Brassfall, a steampunk city brimming with danger and intrigue. Investigate a chilling murder that spirals into a web of conspiracy and hidden truths. Every choice you make uncovers new layers of mystery in this gripping visual novel, where nothing is as it seems.Shalnor: Silverwind Saga (Johnny Ostad, 22nd Jan, $9.99) - Rynna has arrived on one of Shalnor's most dangerous islands. Once a haven for tourism, now the island is abandoned due to the presence of the Slime Queen. To prove her worth, our young Elven hero has to overcome the challenges of the island by finding powerful weapons and items to use against the hordes of monsters in challenging gauntlet-style combat encounters.Sokorobot (Afil Games, 15th Jan, $4.99) - Sokorobot is a dynamic puzzle game where you guide a resourceful robot through 30 challenging levels. Clear debris, solve intricate puzzles, and unlock new stages as you navigate a sleek futuristic world. Think smart, act precise. Every move counts as you tackle complex layouts and interactive elements that test your strategy!Starlair (Dynamic Voltage Games, 16th Jan, $19.99) - Starlair is a never-ending adventure game where you'll take on an entire galaxy's worth of planets. Fly your ship through an infinite galaxy finding new challenges along the way. Every planet in the galaxy was created by a player. When you land on a planet, the game turns into a side-scrolling adventure filled with puzzles, bosses, and power-ups. Each world houses a secret relic which can be used to unravel the mystery surrounding the ever-expanding universe. You can play or create - or both! Build massive worlds, write music, create bosses, and share them with the world.The Golden Eagle (Pix Arts, 17th Jan, $7.99) Embark on a thrilling, action-packed adventure in The Golden Eagle, a roguelike experience where danger lurks around every corner. In this unforgiving world, you'll face off against terrifying ogres and navigate treacherous landscapes filled with deadly trapsall in pursuit of the legendary Golden Eagle and its ancient power.The Last Light (EpiXR Games, 16th Jan, $11.99) - It all takes place in a dark, abandoned hospital. The hospital is enclosed in darkness. All you have to light your way, is a flashlight, and the dim glow of candles... Who awaits Lumi in the darkness? Those who conceal themselves in the dark... Those who sense your presence by catching the faintest of sounds... Being ambushed by a demon completely out of the blue, or out of the dark, rather? That is the kind of experience this game will deliver.The Tale of Bistun (IMGN.PRO, 21st Jan, $17.99) - The Tale of Bistun follows an amnesiac stone carver on his journey up the slopes of the intimidating Mount Bistun. Hell have to battle legions of monstrous foes using fast-paced, melee combat and powerful magical abilities as he explores the real world and the mysterious place of forgotten memories, known as the Revelations Realm, in search of answers. A mysterious voice encourages him to keep going, recounting his every step and keeping close tabs on his quest through these beautiful but blight-infested lands.Things Too Ugly (Baltoro Games, 16th Jan, $7.99) - Clock in for the night shift at TEREBRO INC., 1986. As a newly promoted Risk Assessment Data Processor, your job is simple: safeguard the companys future. But the deeper you dig into the archives, the stranger and more unsettling the details become.Titanigods (Nerd Games, 3rd Jan, $1.99) - Join our gods: Poseidon, Dionysius, and Aphrodite. On a journey to defeat the 12 Titans. It will be a journey of great battles. A war awaits you!Ultimate Rock Climbing Challenge (MultiversalME, 17th Jan, $9.99) - Challenge yourself to new heights in Ultimate Rock Climbing Challenge! This immersive game puts you in the shoes of a daring climber, scaling breathtaking cliffs and conquering challenging routes. Master the art of climbing, explore diverse locations, and customise your climber to become a legend of the rocks!Unsolved Case: The Scarlet Hyacinth CE (Legacy Games, 10th Jan, $12.99) - A whole series of crimes happens right before your eyes: a murder in an alley, your boss getting shot, abductions in broad daylight, and so on Can you deal with it all? A man was murdered with a red hyacinth left on his body the sign of a notorious serial killer from many years ago. But this particular killer has been dormant for a long time is it a copycat? Or a killer come back from beyond? The story only gets more complicated as it gets more personal.Valhalla Mountain (AGE Zero, 16th Jan, $7.99) - Embark on a mesmerizing journey through the surreal landscapes of Yggdrasil, a puzzle-adventure inspired by Norse mythology. Navigate intricate pathways, twist impossible geometry, and experience the story of a lost warrior striving to reach Valhalla. As a lone traveler ascending the sacred mountain, you must manipulate the environment to solve mind-bending puzzles, uncover hidden realms, and awaken the spirits of the gods.What will you be downloading this week? (65 votes)Donkey Kong Country Returns HD26%Tales of Graces f Remastered17%Blade Chimera22%Arcade Archives VS. FAMILY TENNIS2%Backrooms Inside The Escape 0%Bonk! 0%Cavern Adventurers 0%Critical Strike Shooter: SWAT Rescue Missions 0%Decoration Rush 0%District: Evolution 0%Dragons vs. Balloons TD 0%DreadOut Remastered Collection2%EGGCONSOLE CRIMSON PC-8801mkIISR 0%EGGCONSOLE Ys II MSX22%ENDER MAGNOLIA-Bloom in the mist-11%Fables Mosaic: Little Red Riding Hood 0%Godsvivors 0%Hand-Drawn Epic Adventures 0%Hynpytol2%Isolation Instinct: Farming, Craft, Survival 0%Jewel Match Solitaire 2 Collector's Edition 0%Let's Aim! Ring Toss 0%Need For Race - Street King 0%Once Again2%Overdungeon2%Pocket Puzzle 0%Princesses Lylop: Royal Puzzle Challenge 0%Professor Doctor Jetpack 0%Puzzle Adventures - Forest Animals 0%Puzzle Adventures - Sea Animals 0%Rodgerbints: Romance and Scandal in High Society 0%Roller-Skating 0%Runny Bunny 0%Shadows of Steam 0%Shalnor: Silverwind Saga2%Sokorobot 0%Starlair2%The Golden Eagle 0%Last Light 0%The Tale of Bistun 0%Things Too Ugly 0%Titanigods 0%Ultimate Rock Climbing Challenge 0%Unsolved Case: The Scarlet Hyacinth CE 0%Valhalla Mountain 0%Nothing for me this week12%So that's your lot for this week's North American Nintendo Download. Go on, be a sport and drop a vote in the poll above, and comment below with your hot picks!Related GamesSee Also

The Supreme Court has upheld a ban on TikTok. Before the app goes dark on Sunday, youre probably wondering how to back up the dozens, hundreds, or even thousands of videos you may have on the platform.Whether you want to save your favorite videos or videos you posted yourself, heres how to do it.And weve rounded up some TikTok alternatives in case you were starting to panic.If you want to save a few of your favorite TikTok videos or photos to your device, its quite simple.To download a video on an iOS or Android device, go to your TikTok profile page, select the video you want, and tap the Share button on the right side of the screen. Then, choose Save video. You can download photos in the same way.However, be aware that creators can control whether others can download their content. This means that some videos from your Likes, Reposts, or Bookmark tabs may not have a download option available.If you have many videos to download, this process can be time-consuming, as youll need to repeat these steps for each one. There are various third-party apps available that allow for bulk downloads, but their reliability can vary, so proceed with caution.How to obtain your TikTok dataYou can also request a copy of your TikTok data, which may consist of your username, viewing history, comment logs, and privacy configurations. However, TikTok warns that not all data may be available for download, especially if it impacts others privacy, the company writes on its support page.To request your TikTok information, navigate to your profile, tap the Menu button at the top to access Settings, and go to Account. Choose Download your data to select which data you wish to include in your downloadable file and pick a file format: TXT or JSON. Finally, tap Request data.Once you submit your request, TikTok compiles a data file that you can download from the app. Keep in mind that it might take a few days to prepare the file, but TikTok will notify you once its ready for download. Given the potential ban coming this Sunday, we advise you to do this as soon as possible.When your file is prepared, tap download in the app. Itll be available for up to four days.

Breakdown & ShowreelsSecret Level: The Company We Keep by Goodbye Kansas StudiosBy Vincent Frei - 17/01/2025 Discover the artistry of Goodbye Kansas Studios in this excellent clip from Episode 9 of Secret Level! Tim Millers animated anthology continues to amaze with its breathtaking visuals and storytelling!WANT TO KNOW MORE?Goodbye Kansas Studios: Dedicated page about Secret Level: The Company We Keep on Goodbye Kansas Studios website. Vincent Frei The Art of VFX 2025

Fayetteville, Arkansas, is known for lots of things. Among them the University of Arkansas, the first home of Bill and Hillary Clinton, walkable (and bikeable) streets, and great civic buildings like Walton Arts Center. There, residents now have a new public amenity to enjoy: a gleaming public park designed by Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architecture (NBW). The Ramble opened in phases over five years. It consists of two parts the Upper and Lower Ramble. The latter completed in 2022 and the former opened this year. Combined, the Upper and Lower Ramble comprise 50 acres of public outdoor space.The Ramble has meandering trails for all to enjoy. (Nick Hubbard)The Upper Ramble is bordered by Dickson Street, West Avenue, Spring Street, and the Razorback Greenway. Parallel to West Avenue is a 20-foot wide pedestrian promenade lined by shading trees. The landscape architects designed the greenspace with integrated lighting and seating.The Upper Ramble is bordered by Dickson Street, West Avenue, Spring Street, and the Razorback Greenway. (Nick Hubbard)The promenade will host a variety of uses, including tents for markets and festival circuits. Meanwhile, the portion West Avenue between Dickson Avenue and Spring Street is closed off to traffic. The Ramble is a celebration of Fayettevilles unique natural and cultural heritage, Thomas Woltz, a senior principal at NBW, said in a statement.Rock outcroppings double as informal seating. (Nick Hubbard)Working closely with the city and the community, Woltz added, weve created a space where people can gather, explore, and connect both with one another and with the environment in meaningful ways. Its a privilege to contribute to a project that not only enhances the citys landscape but also inspires a deeper appreciation for its natural beauty. The natural and constructed blend into one in the park. (Nick Hubbard)The new park links a handful of Fayettevilles key cultural buildings, including the Walton Arts Center, TheatreSquare, Fayetteville Public Library, and University of Arkansass Art and Design District. Community engagement activities, entertainment, and other happenings will take place in the park year-round.Walking paths can also be activated by the community. (Nick Hubbard)One of the Rambles defining features is its 20,000-square-foot gathering lawn, which is big enough to host 3,000 people. Shaded seating lines the lawn.An event stage on the lawn is expected to open in 2026. That space will accommodate performances, events, and more. In Fayetteville, the Ramble is ready for just about anything.

The digital landscape is evolving rapidly, presenting security leaders with unprecedented challenges. As threats increase in volume and complexity, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions and cyber warfare, a proactive and strategic approach to anticipate and mitigate potential attacks is crucial.At the same time, the regulatory environment is expanding in response to these growing threats. Initiatives like the Cyber Resilience Act, Network and Information Security 2 (NIS2) Directive and the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) are pushing organisations to meet higher security standards. However, the complexity of these regulations makes compliance a significant challenge.The current threat landscape, coupled with new regulatory measures, underscores the need for robust data protection strategies. Emerging technologies such as quantum computing further heighten the urgency. Although still in its experimental stages, advancements like Googles Willow chip highlight quantums potential to render traditional encryption obsolete. This makes the adoption of quantum-resilient security measures essential for protecting sensitive data against future vulnerabilities.Data privacy and security should be approached with the same mindset as insurance policies. Both protect against potential risks before they occur. Just as insurance mitigates financial loss in unforeseen events, data privacy measures defend against breaches, misuse, and cyber risks. The objective is not just reacting to incidents after they occur but ensuring safeguards are in place to minimise impact and maintain control over how data is used.The Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA), which came into effect this month, was introduced to formalise and strengthen the EUs financial services sector and ensure a unified approach to managing ICT risks. Although cyber security technologies have advanced considerably over recent years, so too have the volume and sophistication of cyber attacks. The traditional security measures that financial institutions have deployed are no longer sufficient to protect and mitigate against these attacks.Traditionally, cyber security measures have focused on protecting data at rest or in transit. However, DORA emphasises the importance of securing data in use when sensitive information is actively processed, such as customer data in banking systems. Current solutions, no matter the budget that has been spent, are not entirely bullet proof and thats why the adoption of emerging privacy-enhancing technologies (PETs) should always be under consideration. PETs are at varying levels of maturity, with some requiring significantly more technical expertise than others to integrate with existing operational systems.One such example is Fully Homomorphic Encryption (FHE) a technology that enables secure computing with always-encrypted data that can be used alongside PETs like federated learning or differential privacy, to enhance the protection of data in use. FHE allows encrypted data to be processed without decryption which means that even if a breach of data were to occur, the value of the compromised data is severely limited in value to an attacker.If deployed in silos, PETs will not be silver bullet solutions to rising threats and ever-changing regulations. However, security leaders can deploy a combination of these emerging technologies.The Computer Weekly Security Think Tank on regulation and complianceMandy Andress, Elastic:Why CISOs should build stronger bonds with the legal function in 2025.Adam Stringer, PA Consulting: Why we need better cyber regulation to protect the UK from disruption.Security leaders can best navigate the multitude of new national and multinational regulations by adopting a proactive and adaptive approach to both compliance and protection. This involves integrating advanced privacy-enhancing technologies into their security frameworks to address evolving threats and meet regulatory requirements. Collaboration with regulators, peers, and technology providers is also crucial to align strategies with emerging standards and best practices.Adopting next-generation security technologies and compliance measures is still in its early stages, but the direction is clear. As organisations face an increasingly interconnected and volatile landscape, adopting methods to secure data and systems is becoming an operational necessity. Anticipating threats, embracing innovation, and fostering collaboration will empower organisations to remain compliant, resilient, and ahead of the curve in an unpredictable world.Dr Nick New is CEO at Optalysys, With a PhD in Optical Pattern Recognition from Cambridge, Nick has a strong foundation in optical technology. At Optalysys, he is pioneering advancements in silicon photonics and FHE.

Use the popular tax preparation software TurboTax at a big discount, for a limited time only.

The Supreme Court ruled against TikTok on Friday morning, rejecting TikTok's challenge to ban.Cherie LuoThis morning, in a landmark decision, the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously upheld a federal law mandating that ByteDance, TikTok's Chinese parent company, divest its ownership of the app by January 19, 2025, or face a nationwide TikTok ban.The ruling follows weeks of uncertainty, during which debates intensified over whether the ban would truly take effect. In an effort to delay the deadline, Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), and Representative Ro Khanna (CA-17) introduced the Extend the TikTok Deadline Act. The bill seeks to grant ByteDance an additional 270 days to divest TikTok, and the associated petition has already garnered over 700,000 signatures: I believe we will get to one million, said Congressman Khanna. This comes down to protecting free speech, supporting small businesses, and listening to the voices of millions of Americans. However, as it stands, the ban is still on track to take effect on January 19.What Does A TikTok Ban Mean for Users?If the ban proceeds as scheduled, TikTok's availability in the U.S. could be impacted in several ways:Removal from App Stores: TikTok will likely be removed from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, preventing new users from downloading the app. Existing users would no longer be able to receive updates, leaving the app vulnerable to bugs, security risks, and compatibility issues with newer operating systems. Users could still watch and download videos, but over time, this lack of updates could cause significant degradation of the apps performance. For example, videos may take longer to load, or certain features could stop working altogether.Potential Network and Server Restrictions: Beyond app store removal, the U.S. government could choose to implement network-level restrictions. In this case, internet service providers (ISPs) could be directed to block access to TikToks servers, effectively rendering the app inaccessible. This approach would align with Indias 2020 ban on TikTok, where the government swiftly implemented network interventions, cutting off functionality for over 200 million users.Impact on Creators and Businesses: The ban would undoubtedly disrupt the digital ecosystem built around TikTok. Content creators and businesses that rely on the platform for engagement, income, or marketing would face abrupt challenges. While some creators pivot to platforms like Instagram Reels or YouTube Shorts, others are already exploring other alternatives like RedNote, a Chinese-owned, short-form video app rapidly gaining traction as a haven for TikTok refugees.Lessons from Indias TikTok BanIndias ban on TikTok in 2020 offers a glimpse into what might unfold in the U.S.:Rapid Implementation: The Indian government acted swiftly, cutting off TikTok access overnight, citing national security concerns.Disruption of Livelihoods: The ban impacted creators and small businesses reliant on TikTok. While some successfully transitioned to other platforms, rebuilding audiences was a slow and difficult process.Emergence of Alternatives: Domestic social media apps such as Moj and Josh, quickly gained popularity, attempting to fill the void left by TikTok.TikTok users in India see a pop-up screen due to the ban in 2020.Cherie LuoMORE FOR YOUA Fluid Situation with Broader ImplicationsAs the January 19 deadline looms, significant uncertainty remains. The U.S. government has yet to outline the precise mechanism for enforcing the ban, leaving open the possibility of app store removals, network restrictions, or a combination of both. Meanwhile, legislative efforts like the Extend the TikTok Deadline Act offer a glimmer of hope for ByteDance and TikToks millions of U.S. users: I plan to send the petition to President Biden this evening and am hopeful that he will take these concerns seriously and act to pause this ban and make sure the app does not go dark on Sunday, said Congressman Khanna (CA-17) on Friday, January 17, 2025.Looking ahead, the TikTok ban marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate over national security, data privacy, and the regulation of technology companies with foreign ties. While the potential absence of TikTok leaves many creators and businesses in limbo, it also opens the door for new opportunities. The U.S. could see a wave of innovation from startups eager to capture the attention of TikToks massive user base. Alternatively, dominant platforms like Instagram Reels and YouTube Shortsowned by U.S. tech giants Meta and Googlecould absorb TikTok's market share, given their strong foothold in the United States.For creators, businesses, and users, the coming days will determine whether TikTok can surviveor whether it becomes the latest casualty in a growing wave of decoupling between the U.S. and China. Whatever the outcome, the evolving landscape of social media presents a unique opportunity for innovation, reinvention, and growth.The situation is further complicated by the impending transition to President-elect Donald Trump's administration, which begins on January 20, exactly one day after the ban takes effect. While the Biden administration passed this ban and SCOTUS upheld it this morning, it's possible that the incoming Trump administration could choose not to enforce it and possibly reverse the decision. President-elect Trump has previously expressed support for TikTok, stating he has a warm spot in his heart for TikTok. Additionally, TikTok CEO Shou Chew is set to attend Trump's inauguration as a guest of honor, sitting alongside tech moguls like Mark Zuckerberg, Tim Cook, and Jeff Bezos. This indicates a potential policy shift that could influence TikTok's future in the U.S.Follow me on Instagram or LinkedIn. Check out my website.

In a nutshell: Paris-based startup Robeaut has secured nearly $28 million in venture capital funding to help bring its tiny surgery-assisting robot to operating rooms around the globe. The company, founded in 2017, has created a self-propelled microrobot that could assist neurosurgeons when operating on the human brain. Existing solutions often involve stiff, invasive tools that can cause major damage to sensitive brain tissue. Robeaut's bot, which is roughly the size of a grain of rice, is small and nimble enough to burrow its way deep into the brain without leaving a trail of destruction.The bot is designed to follow a set path laid out by a neurosurgeon, and can be tracked in real time. Robeaut initially plans to use its bots to collect tissue samples for biopsies. Later, the tech could be used to deliver targeted drugs to specific parts of the brain or implant electrodes to treat conditions like Parkinson's.Robeaut was founded by Bertrand Duplat and Joana Cartocci. Duplat, a veteran in the fields of robotics and computer science, had worked for decades on robots meant to operate in extreme environments like on the ocean floor and at radioactive sites. But when his mother was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor, he shifted his focus.The idea really came out of the pain and frustration at the inability to reach any of these meaningful areas of the brain, Duplat said.The co-founder, who also serves as CEO, said it was no easy task to get to where they are today. Several advances in electronics, robotics, and microfrabrication were necessary to build the tiny bot. "It required multiple building blocks, and it took five years to get all these initial building blocks put together, working with different labs," he added. // Related StoriesThe team successfully trialed the technology in animal cadavers in late 2021 before moving to human cadavers and live animals. Robeaut hopes to start testing in humans as early as 2026, but must first gain approval from the US Food and Drug Administration.Cartocci told Fortune that neurosurgeons have been among their biggest supporters, adding that the medical community response was overwhelming. "They recognized the need for this solution and they recognized the intellectual challenge of trying to achieve it," Cartocci said.