The UK has recently implemented new cybersecurity laws that prohibit the use of easily-guessed password combinations. The Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure rules now ban common access phrases such as ‘admin’, ‘12345’, ‘chelsea’, and ‘arsenal’. This password update is aimed at ensuring that manufacturers of internet-connected devices adhere to minimum security standards to prevent hacking attacks.
In other news, tragedy struck in central US states as tornadoes caused the deaths of at least five individuals, including a four-month-old baby. Oklahoma has declared a state of emergency in response to the devastation caused by the tornadoes.
Pope Francis has encouraged young people to put down their smartphones and spend more time outdoors interacting with others. Speaking to a large crowd in Venice, the pontiff expressed concerns about the negative impact of video games and social media on young minds.
A sports tech start-up called Hit has developed a new helmet sensor aimed at improving concussion outcomes from mountain biking accidents. The sensor measures head impact force and communicates with a connected app to provide real-time data. Former world champion mountain biker Reece Wilson shared insights on this new technology with Tech & Science Daily.
Scientists at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh have made a breakthrough discovery of a new porous material that can help capture greenhouse gases. Researchers at Oregon State University have reported findings about a giant salmon species that may have used its tusk-like teeth for combat in the Pacific Ocean millions of years ago.
In addition, Britain is reportedly working on deploying a hypersonic cruise missile by 2030, capable of flying at five times the speed of sound. The public is also invited to share their memories and memorabilia from London Zoo for an upcoming exhibition celebrating the institution’s 200th anniversary.
