Ars Technica: A mysterious hacker gang is on a supply-chain hacking spree. “A software supply-chain attack represents one of the most insidious forms of hacking. By breaking into a developer’s network and hiding malicious code within apps and software updates that users trust, supply-chain hijackers can smuggle their malware onto hundreds of thousands—or millions—of computers in a single operation, without the slightest sign of foul play. Now what appears to be a single group of hackers has managed that trick repeatedly, going on a devastating supply-chain hacking spree—and the hackers have become more advanced and stealthy as they go.”
manufacturing
European Commission: New database for EU geographical indications aims to increase transparency and simplify search
European Commission: New database for EU geographical indications aims to increase transparency and simplify search. “Launched today 1 April 2019, the new public database ‘eAmbrosia – the EU Geographical Indications registers’ will give easy access to information on all EU Geographical Indications (GI), including their status (applied, published or registered), their product specification, and a direct link to the legal basis when they are officially protected.” I didn’t have a clear idea of what geographical indications were but WIPO helped me out: “A geographical indication (GI) is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.”
Ecotextile News: Online map of global apparel factories goes live
Ecotextile News: Online map of global apparel factories goes live. “The latest version of an ambitious textile sector-specific online transparency tool is now live. The launch of the Open Apparel Registry (OAR) comes after months of consultation and alterations following the digital platform’s beta release back in in October 2018.” I did mention this back in October but it’s nice to see it’s out of beta.
Saigon Times: Hawa launches database of legal wood
Saigon Times: Hawa launches database of legal wood. “The Handicraft and Wood Industry Association of HCMC (Hawa) rolled out a website on January 18… known as Vietnam’s Legal Wood Database, to support enterprises in searching for all varieties of wood in the country and assisting those selling wooden products.”
Ecotextile: World’s first free digital map of apparel factories
Ecotextile: World’s first free digital map of apparel factories. “The beta version of an ambitious new online tool aims to help consumers find out exactly where their clothes are made – by eventually identifying every apparel facility worldwide.”
ZDNet: Schneider Electric may have shipped USB drives infested with malware
ZDNet: Schneider Electric may have shipped USB drives infested with malware. WARNING: Loud auto-playing video. “USB flash drivers sent with Conext Combox and Conext Battery Monitor products, part of Schneider Electric’s solar power range, were “contaminated” during the manufacturing process, according to a security advisory released by the industrial equipment manufacturer.”
TechStory: Google Glass now comes with Artificial Intelligence
Techstory: Google Glass now comes with Artificial Intelligence . “On Tuesday, Israeli software company Plataine demonstrated a new app for the face-mounted gadget. Aimed at manufacturing workers, it understands spoken language and offers verbal responses. Think of an Amazon Alexa for the factory floor.”
