When you reconnect with Sciel in the Gestral Village, she’s been champion at their local arena tournament for a while, and absolutely dominant at that, like a sexy, French Roman Reigns or something. It’s not till you finally get around to using her in your party that you really figure out why. She obviously took it easy on you in your arena fight. If Sciel wanted to, she could turn your ass into mirepoix faster than she puts up her ponytail. Suggested ReadingThe 3 Best And 3 Worst Korok Challenges In Tears Of The Kingdom Share SubtitlesOffEnglishview videoSuggested ReadingThe 3 Best And 3 Worst Korok Challenges In Tears Of The Kingdom Share SubtitlesOffEnglishRead More: That might not be totally obvious at the outset though, because my girl’s combat mechanics are the most unique and complex in the game; and it’s so easy to blow so many turns doing chip damage to low level grunts when you could and should be an unstoppable death dealer. Let’s show you how. 1. Basic kit2. Special mechanic: Foretell and Twilight3. Recommended builds and synergiesThere’s not too much to say here since even compared to the rest of her Team, Sciel’s entire loadout is inextricable from the Twilight mechanics. But, just to keep it real simple, Sciel uses a double-sided scythe for a melee weapon. There are actually really heartbreaking reasons for that, but in context, it does mean that despite everything else, she’s still got some powerful melee capabilities you can and should take advantage of. In particular, though, one of her bread-and-butter abilities, Sealed Fate, will depend on what element and what weapon you’ve got equipped, so more than some of the others, you still wanna choose her main weapon wisely, and not just for max Attack power.The main reason for that is because the vast majority of her abilities cast some form of Dark energy. She and, later, Monoco are the only ones who have consistent access to Dark skills, and given how rare it is for enemies to have a defense against it, that makes her innately pretty useful. But, of course, that’s the tip of the iceberg.Screenshot: Sandfall Interactive / Justin Clark / KotakuAnd now, the feature presentation: Sciel’s tutorial technically tells players all they need to know to use the Foretell system, but it sucks at telling you how to use it effectively. And you can see why, given how easy it is for Sciel to become Death, Destroyer of Worlds with the right loadout. So, there’s actually two special mechanics going on here. The first is Foretell. Think of Sciel’s Foretell cards like they’re little sticky bombs. You can stick a maximum of 10 onto an enemy, and whenever you’re ready, you can Consume them, which detonates some or all of them for additional damage. Obviously, you want a full payload of 10, and to hopefully not waste too many turns getting there. The second is the Twilight mechanic. Each of Sciel’s skills is coded as either a Light or Dark skill, noted by the little sun and moon icons in the upper right of the descriptions in the menus. Using a skill generates a card with either a Sun or Moon on it. Once you’ve generated at least one Sun card and one Moon card, Sciel enters Twilight mode, which increases damage by 50%, but also doubles the amount of Foretell you can slap onto an enemy from 10 to 20. That damage increase actually goes up by 25% for every card of one type you generate before generating the opposite card to enter Twilight (i.e. adding multiple Sun cards before generating a Moon and vice versa). It’s not a hard mechanic to grasp, but the trickiness mostly comes in the fact that the skill descriptions get very Magic the Gathering real fast, and especially when you’re just getting acclimated, they’re throwing a LOT at you. Screenshot: Sandfall Interactive / Justin Clark / KotakuWe could honestly be here all day with this one. Synergizing means spending some considerable time in your skill menu optimizing your personal easiest path to a strong Twilight. But oh, believe us, it’s worth it. It’s kind of a shame you can’t actually pin Skills in the menus, because Focused Foretell (applying 5 Foretell to enemies with no other Foretell) is going to be the way you say hello to every enemy 99% of the time. Searing Bond is the closest you get to a replacement later on, but the four-AP cost upfront can put you at a disadvantage a bit too early. That said, Searing Bond is still a pretty excellent second skill to have in your arsenal to get an enemy you hit with Focused Foretell to 10 Foretell in a hurry, and it pairs nicely with Maelle and Lune’s multi-enemy Fire skills and Sciel’s own Firing Shadow for clearing out group fights in a hurry. Screenshot: Sandfall Interactive / Justin Clark / KotakuSealed Fate is Sciel’s Ace maneuver, though. It’s the best go-to trigger for Twilight once you’ve got your cards stacked. It’s right next to Phantom Blade on the Skills tree, so you can grab it early on; it does a pretty absurd amount of damage for only a fourAP cost. Pair it with the Critical Burn or Critical Break Picto/Lumina, and you’ve basically taken a chainsaw to a massive chunk of every enemy’s lifebar.The main thing to remember is that it does attack using your weapon’s element, so be aware if your opponent’s immune so you don’t wind up healing your enemy for thousands of points like a dumbass. And oh yeah, if you think that Skill hurts enemies now, once you’re actually in Twilight, Sealed Fate can be an absolute wrecking ball, especially once you’ve got the enemy up to 20 Foretell. Once you’ve unlocked Gradient Attacks, drop this right after Shadow Bringer, and watch enemies melt away. While this is just a guide to get you started, it is worth noting just how much the game can and will change once you’ve got stuff like Fortune’s Fate in your back pocket. Also, when you’re finally brave enough to take down the colossal Sprong enemy hanging out in the southwestern part of the map, he’ll drop the Cheater Picto, allowing you to take two turns in a row, and putting that thing on Sciel makes her an absolute monster in terms of building up high Twilight percentages fast. If you go that route—and should—just make sure she has a skill that can trigger a Break, because she can get an enemy there fast. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is available now on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows PCs. . Source: https://kotaku.com/clair-obscur-expedition-33-sciel-foretell-twilight-1851780506 #beginner039s #guide #mastering #sciel #clair #obscur #expedition

Prime Video has renewed its hit series Fallout for a third season, ahead its Season 2 premiere slated for December of this year. The upcoming season will pick up in the aftermath of the Season 1 finale, and travel into the post-apocalyptic city of New Vegas. “We are absolutely thrilled that our global Prime Video customers will be able to delve deeper into the wonderfully surreal and captivating world of Fallout,” said Vernon Sanders, global head of television, Amazon MGM Studios. “Jonah, Lisa, Geneva, and Graham have done an exceptional job bringing this beloved video game franchise to vivid life on Prime Video. Together with our amazing partners at Bethesda Games and Bethesda Softworks, we are delighted to announce a third season of Fallout, well ahead of the much-anticipated debut of Season 2.” “The holidays came a little early this year - we are thrilled to be ending the world all over again for a third season of Fallout,” said executive producers Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy. “On behalf of our brilliant cast and crew, our showrunners Geneva and Graham, and our partners at Bethesda, we’re grateful to our incredible collaborators at Amazon MGM Studios and to the amazing fans as we continue our adventures in the wasteland together.” Based on Bethesda’s beloved video game series, Fallout tells the story of haves and have-nots in a world in which there’s almost nothing left to have. 200 years after the apocalypse, the gentle denizens of luxury fallout shelters are forced to return to the irradiated hellscape their ancestors left behind - and are shocked to discover an incredibly complex, gleefully weird, and highly violent universe waiting for them. The series stars Ella Purnell (Yellowjackets, Sweetpea), Aaron Moten (Emancipation, Father Stu), Walton Goggins (The White Lotus, The Righteous Gemstones), Kyle MacLachlan (Twin Peaks), Moisés Arias (The King of Staten Island), and Frances Turner (The Boys). Fallout is produced by Kilter Films, with executive producers Nolan, Joy and Athena Wickham. Geneva Robertson-Dworet and Graham Wagner also serve as executive producers, creators, and showrunners. Todd Howard, Bethesda Game Studios, executive produces along with James Altman for Bethesda Softworks. Amazon MGM Studios and Kilter Films produce in association with Bethesda Game Studios and Bethesda Softworks. BlackGinger, CoSA VFX, Framestore, FutureWorks Media Ltd., Important Looking Pirates, Magnopus, Mavericks, One of Us, Refuge, and Yafka collaborated to create the VFX for Season 1. Grant Everett served as visual effects supervisor, with Brannek Gaudet as visual effects supervisor for Mavericks, Fred Ruff for Refuge, and Antonis Kotzias for Yafka. No word yet on Season 2 work. Fallout Season 1 is now streaming on Prime Video. Source: Prime Video Journalist, antique shop owner, aspiring gemologist—L'Wren brings a diverse perspective to animation, where every frame reflects her varied passions. Source: https://www.awn.com/news/fallout-renewed-third-season-ahead-season-2-december-premiere #fallout #renewed #for #third #season #ahead #december #premiere

Templo has created designs inspired by tectonic plates for the British Pavilion at this year’s Venice Biennale. The London-based studio worked on the visual identity, exhibition graphics, global marketing campaign and digital content for the pavilion, which has been commissioned by the British Council since 1937. It’s the third pavilion Templo has worked on, after they came through what Joanne Jolley, the British Council’s head of marketing, arts, called a “robust procurement process,” which included a paid creative pitch. “Templo stood out from the very beginning for their clear understanding of, and sensitivity to, the issues around the 2023 pavilion, which explored the everyday rituals of diaspora communities,” she says. “They know how to communicate these complicated subjects, but also bring joy into them through their designs.” Each year’s identity is treated as a new project, because the themes of each pavilion are very different, as is the level of input each curatorial team wants and expects into the process. For this year’s pavilion, commissioner Sevra Davis wanted to bring the British Council’s overarching mission – to foster ”cross cultural connection and collaboration”– into its Venice presence. “It struck me that this was a way to use the pavilion to celebrate what the British Council does in every other way, which is to connect across cultures to build trust, build connection, and build understanding,” Davis says. “I got a lot of flack for it, because people thought I had narrowed it down too much. But I think it’s incredibly exciting, the process of working together with the team in Kenya and other people all around the world. That’s what the British Council is all about, and so this becomes an exemplar of that.” Templo’s identity for this year’s British pavilion at the Venice Biennale Produced as part of the British Council’s UK/Kenya season of culture, this year’s exhibition looks “to examine the relationship between architecture and colonisation as parallel, interconnected systems.” GBR – Geology of Britannic Repair takes inspiration from the pavilion’s location on an axis that links the UK to Kenya and the Rift Valley, raising questions about power, politics, and identity. Installations include maps of the night sky above London and Nairobi the day Kenya gained independence from Britain in 1963, a bronze cast of the Rift Valley, and a room that explores how salvage materials could be used to rebuild war-torn Gaza. For Templo’s Pali Palavathanan and Anoushka Rodda, the approach spoke to many of their personal and professional interests. “Myself being Sri Lankan, and Anoushka’s family coming from Lebanon, which is the start of the Rift Valley, there were a lot of connections to who we are as a studio, and what we’re drawn to,” Palavathanan explains. This year’s British pavilion with its veil of beads This year’s British pavilion with its veil of beads The design approach was inspired by the veil of beads, made from agricultural waste and clay, which covers the angular British pavilion. The covering “softens and curves out this harsh imperial building,” Palavathanan says. They took a similar approach to the typeface, choosing Lithic for its angular, imperial sensibility and then using a “bevel effect to round off its harsh edges.” The secondary font is Flexa, chosen for its practical legibility. The red, green and black colour palette is taken from the Kenyan flag – despite Palavathanan’s initial misgivings that it would look “chaotic” – and the motion design is built on geological references. “Originally it was quite linear, but then we made it more like tectonic plates, like a rock formation converging with one another, or pulling apart. It all ties back to those themes of rift and repair.” The result is a thrillingly unusual combination of rhythms and patterns that feels very organic. And it speaks to one of Templo’s biggest challenges – to reflect the weighty subject matter of this year’s pavilion without making it feel too sombre. https://d3faj0w6aqatyx.cloudfront.net/uploads/2025/05/02-Geology-of-Britannic-Repair-teaser.mp4 “It’s an incredibly serious exhibition,” Palavathanan says. “It’s dealing with difficult things, but we want to be optimistic and playful in some ways, and the visual identity helps us to do that.” For Rodda, the fact that they know the British Council team so well gives them the confidence to push the creative direction. “The nice thing about these ongoing relationships is that you get a really good feel for what they prioritise, and what they find significant.” “That trust helps us push the boundaries more,” Jolley agrees. Exhibition graphics at this year’s British pavilion. Photo by Chris Lane. While around 80% of visitors to the Biennale will attend the UK exhibition, for Jolley and her team, a major focus is on the much bigger audience who won’t see the pavilion in person. Templo created a flythrough video so people can get a sense of how the exhibition unfolds, and they are also working with Kenyan influencers to create content that responds to this year’s themes. “We have to think a bit differently about how we can enrich the experience for people who won’t go to the exhibition,” Rodda says. “I think this the first time the British Council has done this, handing over control of part of the campaign.” Templo’s identity for this year’s British pavilion at the Venice Biennale Templo’s identity for this year’s British pavilion at the Venice Biennale Templo’s identity for this year’s British pavilion at the Venice Biennale Templo’s identity for this year’s British pavilion at the Venice Biennale Source: https://www.designweek.co.uk/templos-tectonic-identity-for-the-british-pavilion-at-the-venice-biennale/ #templos #tectonic #identity #for #the #british #pavilion #venice #biennale

Japanese-inspired architecture has long captivated design enthusiasts with its delicate balance of simplicity, harmony with nature, and ingenious use of space. Whether nestled in bustling metropolises or tranquil natural settings, these structures reveal the timeless wisdom and innovative spirit of Japanese design philosophy. We have curated a collection of ten amazing projects from around the world that showcase the enduring influence and adaptability of Japanese aesthetics in modern architecture. These ten Japanese-inspired architectural designs embody the principles that have made Japanese design admired worldwide—mindful minimalism, deep respect for nature, ingenious use of space, and an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and innovation. These stunning designs offer a window into the timeless and transformative power of Japanese aesthetics. 1. The Small House on a Corner Lot In the heart of Tokyo’s dense urban fabric, KOMINORU Design’s Small House on a Corner Lot is a testament to the Japanese principle of making the most out of every inch. Occupying just 30 square meters, this three-story wooden home embodies “Ma”—the concept of negative space—by transforming constraints into opportunities for ingenuity. The architects skillfully navigated Tokyo’s stringent building regulations, leveraging the unique characteristics of a corner lot and maximizing the building’s footprint to create a surprisingly airy and spacious environment. Exposed timber columns and beams, a nod to traditional Japanese craftsmanship, merge with modern fire safety requirements, resulting in interiors that exude both warmth and structural clarity. What we like Exceptionally efficient use of limited urban space, making it ideal for cities with high population density. Beautiful interplay of exposed timber and modern design, delivering warmth and architectural character. What we dislike Limited outdoor space due to the compact footprint, which may not appeal to families or those who desire a garden. The vertical layout may pose accessibility challenges for residents with mobility issues. 2. eONE XL The eONE XL by Escape elevates micro-living to new heights with its Japanese-inspired design and thoughtful layout. Built on a double-axle trailer, this tiny home reinterprets the Japanese tradition of maximizing natural light and space within modest dimensions. The exterior features charred wood cladding—a nod to the ancient Japanese technique of shou sugi ban—that not only protects the structure but also lends a timeless elegance. Expansive windows bathe the interior in daylight, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels much larger than its footprint. Inside, the open-plan kitchen is both spacious and highly functional, equipped with modern, all-electric appliances and generous cabinetry. The emphasis on clean lines, minimal clutter, and efficient storage solutions reflects Japanese design’s focus on harmony, utility, and serenity. The eONE XL is a compelling example of how traditional Japanese principles can be reimagined for contemporary, sustainable living. What we like Bright, light-filled interiors create a sense of spaciousness uncommon in tiny homes. Durable, low-maintenance charred wood exterior enhances longevity and aesthetic appeal. What we dislike Trailer-based design may not suit those seeking a permanent foundation home. Limited customization options for buyers who desire unique layouts or features. 3. Bonzai French firm Baluchon’s Bonzai tiny home distills Japanese space-saving ingenuity into a charming, ultra-compact dwelling. At just 4.5 meters long, Bonzai is even smaller than most tiny homes but manages to feel inviting and functional through clever design choices inspired by Japanese minimalism. The warm red cedar exterior harmonizes with nature, while the aluminum roof and spruce interior create a cozy, yet modern ambiance. Natural materials and efficient insulation, blending linen, hemp, and cotton, ensure comfort throughout the seasons. The compact rooftop deck is accessible via an exterior ladder, providing a peaceful retreat that echoes the Japanese appreciation for blending indoor and outdoor living. Despite its diminutive size, every corner is thoughtfully utilized, demonstrating how Japanese design values efficiency without sacrificing beauty or comfort. What we like Highly portable and space-efficient, ideal for individuals or couples seeking minimal, flexible living. Uses eco-friendly, natural insulation materials for year-round comfort. What we dislike Extremely limited interior space may be challenging for long-term living or entertaining guests. Minimal storage options could be a drawback for those with more belongings. 4. Blue Ocean Dome Shigeru Ban’s Blue Ocean Dome Pavilion for Expo 2025 Osaka is an inspiring showcase of sustainability and Japanese design philosophy. Constructed from cardboard tubes, laminated bamboo, and carbon-fiber reinforced plastics, the pavilion exemplifies the innovative use of renewable materials—a key tenet of Japanese architecture. The domed structure, with its translucent polycarbonate skin, creates a light-filled, welcoming environment while highlighting the importance of ocean conservation. Ban’s approach emphasizes adaptability, with the lightweight design allowing for easy disassembly and minimal waste post-expo. The use of laminated bamboo and cardboard tubes addresses Japanese building codes and also pays homage to traditional materials in a modern, environmentally responsible context. What we like Exemplary use of sustainable, renewable building materials. Modular and lightweight design allows for easy relocation and minimal environmental impact. What we dislike Temporary nature means it may not provide long-term utility or permanence. Cardboard and bamboo materials may offer less durability compared to conventional construction methods. 5. 45° TAKUYAHOSOKAI’s 45° Cake Shop & Café in Niigata is a striking example of Japanese architecture’s integration with nature and innovative spatial concepts. Set within an ancient, sprawling forest, the café’s unique layout features rotating spaces oriented at 45-degree angles, creating a dynamic and unexpected experience. Elevated above the ground, the structure takes full advantage of the gentle terrain and dappled sunlight, blurring the boundaries between the built and natural environments. The café’s open design and panoramic views invite visitors to engage with the changing seasons, fostering a deep connection to the landscape. This project encapsulates the Japanese reverence for nature, subtlety in design, and the embrace of non-traditional forms to create memorable, emotionally resonant spaces. What we like Unmatched integration with natural surroundings provides a tranquil, immersive experience. Innovative spatial orientation creates a unique and memorable visit. What we dislike The unconventional layout may challenge accessibility or wayfinding for some guests. Elevated design could complicate construction and increase maintenance needs. 6. Cs Somme Cafe The Cs Somme Cafe in Fukuoka, designed by Kengo Kuma and Associates, is a masterful fusion of safety, beauty, and environmental consciousness. Its star feature is a shimmering web-like mesh canopy, constructed from interlocking steel components that form an earthquake-resistant shell—a vital consideration in Japan’s seismic landscape. The canopy acts as both a protective structure and a design statement, filtering sunlight and reducing solar gain to create a comfortable, energy-efficient interior. Expansive glazing on one side offers panoramic views of lush gardens, while the integration of arches and mesh creates a modern reinterpretation of traditional Japanese forms. What we like Earthquake-resistant design enhances safety in a region prone to seismic activity. Mesh canopy reduces energy consumption and provides stunning visual appeal. What we dislike Complex steel structure may increase initial construction costs. Open mesh design may offer less protection from harsh weather conditions. 7. Yuputira House On the shores of Miyako Island, Mariko Mori’s Yuputira House stands as a sculptural tribute to the ocean and the Japanese spirit of minimalism. The coral-shaped, pure white concrete form echoes the curves and organic shapes found in nature, embodying the concept of “wabi-sabi”—the beauty of imperfection and transience. Circular skylights and sweeping curves fill the interior with daylight, creating a serene, almost ethereal atmosphere that connects residents to the sea. The absence of straight lines and the seamless merging of rooms reflect the Japanese preference for fluidity and harmony. By collaborating with local craftsmen, Mori honors traditional techniques while pushing the boundaries of modern design. What we like Unique, sculptural form creates an inspiring and peaceful living environment. Abundant natural light and ocean views enhance well-being and relaxation. What we dislike Custom, organic shapes may complicate construction and increase costs. The ultra-minimalist layout might not suit those who prefer defined, functional spaces. 8. Ephemeral Bubble MAD’s Ephemeral Bubble installation in Murono Village is a poetic dialogue between the old and the new, merging a century-old wooden house with a futuristic, translucent bubble. Crafted from a lightweight PVC membrane, the bubble seems to breathe alongside the historic structure, offering a temporary, flexible space for performances and ceremonies. The design draws inspiration from nature, mimicking the lightness and impermanence of air, and invites visitors to contemplate the passage of time and the boundaries between inside and out. At night, the installation glows softly, transforming into a lantern and creating an atmosphere of gentle illumination—an effect reminiscent of Japanese paper lanterns. The Ephemeral Bubble exemplifies the Japanese appreciation for temporality, adaptability, and the seamless fusion of tradition with innovation. What we like Striking juxtaposition of historical and contemporary elements encourages cultural reflection. Lightweight, flexible design allows for creative and temporary uses. What we dislike Temporary structure offers limited durability and functional lifespan. PVC material may not align with sustainability goals for long-term projects. 9. Godai Pavilion The Godai Pavilion by Baldó Arquitectura in northern Spain demonstrates the global reach of Japanese design philosophy. Inspired by the five elements of godai—fire, earth, water, wind, and space—the pool house features an overhanging bamboo roof and transparent facades that frame the rural landscape. The use of bamboo slats, arranged according to the Fibonacci sequence, not only references traditional tatami rooms but also modulates privacy and natural light. The design’s gradual transition from solid to void mirrors the Japanese understanding of space as a continuum, not a fixed boundary. Ceilings inspired by origami further enrich the spatial experience, adding layers of texture and meaning. What we like Harmonious blend of privacy, light control, and landscape connectivity. Use of sustainable bamboo and innovative geometries for environmental and visual impact. What we dislike Open, transparent design may reduce insulation and climate control efficiency. Custom bamboo work might require specialized maintenance and care. 10. Ishigaki Earth Ishigaki Earth, designed by Sou Fujimoto, is a visionary retreat that reimagines the relationship between architecture and landscape. Located on Ishigaki Island’s lush coast, the villa’s circular form and undulating green roof dissolve the conventional division between inside and outside. Large roof openings frame expansive views of the sky and sea, fostering a sense of unity with the environment—a hallmark of Japanese design. Fujimoto’s approach draws on the concept of “engawa,” the traditional Japanese idea of a threshold space that connects the built and natural worlds. The villa’s organic curves and green roof enhance aesthetics and also contribute to sustainability by improving insulation and supporting local biodiversity. What we like Seamless integration with the landscape enhances both ecological and emotional well-being. Green roof provides natural insulation and supports local flora. What we dislike Large, custom property may require significant resources and maintenance. Island location could limit access to urban amenities and services. The post 10 Best Japanese-Inspired Designs That Are Redefining Modern Architecture first appeared on Yanko Design. Source: https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/05/13/10-best-japanese-inspired-designs-that-are-redefining-modern-architecture/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=10-best-japanese-inspired-designs-that-are-redefining-modern-architecture #best #japaneseinspired #designs #that #are #redefining #modern #architecture

Accessibility leader accused of employee abuse and waste of charity's funds AbleGamers founder Mark Barlet denies claims. Image credit: AbleGamers News by Tom Phillips Editor-in-Chief Published on May 13, 2025 Mark Barlet, founder of high-profile gaming accessibility charity AbleGamers, has been accused of fostering abuse at the non-profit for more than two decades. In a wide-ranging report published today by IGN, former colleagues claim Barlet used sexist, racist and misogynistic language in the workplace, including about other employees, and made comments offensive to other disabled people. One source claimed Barlet repeatedly referred to her as the company's HR representative, as she was the only woman in the business. The source claimed Barlet would then also make offensive remarks regarding her breasts in front of colleagues. Barlet, who left the charity last September following an investigation by an external law firm, denies all claims of abuse and harassment. "After thoroughly being investigated by an independent third-party, it was determined that none of that was true," Barlet said in a statement. Other claims involve wasteful spending of the charity's funds by Barlet, involving first class air travel and extended hotel stays following business trips, and an expensive office charger for his Tesla. In response, Barlet said his travel was justified by company policies, his extended trips were to cover additional business meetings, and his Tesla charger was just a "plug". Regardless, it's claimed that an April 2024 investigation by external payroll and HR firm ADP advised AbleGamers' board to part ways with Barlet, after concerns over his spending. This advice was reportedly ignored, prompting multiple employees to file Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) complaints, prompting the latter invesigation that did then result in Barlet leaving the charity in September 2024 - albeit reportedly with a severance package. Since his departure, Barlet has started a new accessibility firm, AccessForge, while employees who spoke out about him claim they were subsequently forced out of AbleGamers by its board in retaliation. Meanwhile, employees still at AbleGamers claim they have been repeatedly dissuaded from sharing their experiences for IGN's report. It's alleged that the charity's Steven Spohn has told staff not to speak out, for fear of "ruining the charity's reputation". Neither Spohn or AbleGamers responded to IGN's requests for comment. Source: https://www.eurogamer.net/accessibility-leader-accused-of-employee-abuse-and-waste-of-charitys-funds #accessibility #leader #accused #employee #abuse #and #waste #charity039s #funds

May 13, 2025Ravie LakshmananVulnerability / Threat Intelligence A recently disclosed critical security flaw impacting SAP NetWeaver is being exploited by multiple China-nexus nation-state actors to target critical infrastructure networks. "Actors leveraged CVE-2025-31324, an unauthenticated file upload vulnerability that enables remote code execution (RCE)," EclecticIQ researcher Arda Büyükkaya said in an analysis published today. Targets of the campaign include natural gas distribution networks, water and integrated waste management utilities in the United Kingdom, medical device manufacturing plants oil and gas exploration and production companies in the United States, and government ministries in Saudi Arabia that are responsible for investment strategy and financial regulation. The findings are based on a publicly exposed directory uncovered on attacker-controlled infrastructure ("15.204.56[.]106") that contained event logs capturing the activities across multiple compromised systems. The Dutch cybersecurity company has attributed the intrusions to Chinese threat activity clusters tracked as UNC5221, UNC5174, and CL-STA-0048, the last of which was linked to attacks targeting high-value targets in South Asia by exploiting known vulnerabilities in public-facing IIS, Apache Tomcat, and MS-SQL servers to drop web shells, reverse shells, and the PlugX backdoor. It also noted that an uncategorized China-nexus threat actor is conducting a widespread internet scanning and exploitation campaign against SAP NetWeaver systems. The server hosted at the IP address "15.204.56[.]106" has been found to contain multiple files, including - "CVE-2025-31324-results.txt," which has recorded 581 SAP NetWeaver instances compromised and backdoored with a web shell "服务数据_20250427_212229.txt," which lists 800 domains running SAP NetWeaver likely for future targeting "The exposed open-dir infrastructure reveals confirmed breaches and highlights the group's planned targets, offering clear insight into both past and future operations," Büyükkaya noted. The exploitation of CVE-2025-31324 is followed by the threat actor deploying two web shells that are designed to maintain persistent remote access to the infected systems and execute arbitrary commands. In addition, three different Chinese hacking groups have been observed exploiting the SAP NetWeaver vulnerability as part of efforts to maintain remote access, conduct reconnaissance, and drop malicious programs - CL-STA-0048, which has attempted to establish an interactive reverse shell to "43.247.135[.]53," an IP address previously identified as used by the threat actor UNC5221, which has leveraged a web shell to deploy KrustyLoader, a Rust-based malware that can used to serve second-stage payloads like Sliver, set up persistence, and execute shell commands UNC5174, which has leveraged a web shell to download SNOWLIGHT, a loader that initiates a connection with a hard-coded server to fetch a Go-based remote access trojan named VShell and a backdoor known as GOREVERSE "China-linked APTs are highly likely to continue targeting internet-exposed enterprise applications and edge devices to establish long-term strategic and persistence access to critical infrastructure networks globally," Büyükkaya said. "Their focus on widely used platforms like SAP NetWeaver is a strategic move, as these systems are deeply integrated into enterprise environments and often host unpatched vulnerabilities." SAP Patches New NetWeaver Flaw in May 2025 Patch The disclosure comes days after another China-linked unnamed threat actor dubbed Chaya_004 has also been attributed to the exploitation of CVE-2025-31324 to deploy a Go-based reverse shell called SuperShell. SAP security firm Onapsis said it is "seeing significant activity from attackers who are using public information to trigger exploitation and abuse web shells placed by the original attackers, who have currently gone dark." Further analysis of these attacks has led to the discovery of another critical defect in NetWeaver's Visual Composer Metadata Uploader component. Tracked as CVE-2025-42999 (CVSS score: 9.1), it has been described as a deserialization vulnerability that could be exploited by a privileged user to upload untrusted or malicious content. In light of ongoing active exploitation, customers of SAP NetWeaver are recommended to update their instances to the latest version as soon as possible. Found this article interesting? Follow us on Twitter  and LinkedIn to read more exclusive content we post. SHARE     Source: https://thehackernews.com/2025/05/china-linked-apts-exploit-sap-cve-2025.html #chinalinked #apts #exploit #sap #cve202531324 #breach #critical #systems #worldwide