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What Are the Benefits of ID Protection Services?

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We live in a digital age whereby personal information is shared and stored online more than ever, leaving the chances of theft at an all-time high. Identity theft can result in serious financial costs and emotional distress as well as far-reaching effects on your credit standing and reputation. The good news is that many people — and enterprises as well today are availing the popularly known ID protection services to battle this threat. But what do these services entail and how does one benefit from them?

Understanding ID Protection Services

ID protection services are designed to monitor, protect, and restore your personal information in case it’s compromised. These services typically include features such as identity theft monitoring, credit monitoring, identity recovery, and insurance against losses resulting from identity theft.

  1. Proactive Monitoring

ID protection services provide an effective solution to this problem with its primary benefit being proactive monitoring. These services will closely monitor the web, databases, and other places where your personal information might appear without permission. This type of service would normally involve actively scraping social media platforms, the dark web, or public records for potential data that may have been leaked on a person in order to commit identity theft. This means that by detecting the likelihood of hostile acts before any destruction has been caused, individuals may act preemptively instead.

  1. Credit Monitoring

Many ID protection services offer credit monitoring that alerts you of any changes to your credit report. Those would be notifications that new accounts have been opened in your name, changes to your credit score and inquiries by lenders. Checking your credit report periodically will allow you to identify potential identity theft and discrepancies early on before they can have a major affect against financial health.

  1. Identity Recovery Services

In the unfortunate event that your identity is stolen, ID protection services provide recovery assistance. This may include guidance on how to report identity theft to the authorities, help with filing police reports, and assistance in disputing fraudulent charges. Many services also offer dedicated recovery specialists who work with you to restore your identity, ensuring that you have support during this stressful time.

  1. Insurance Against Losses

Most ID protection services offer insurance to cover financial losses incurred due to identity theft. This insurance typically includes coverage for expenses related to identity recovery, such as legal fees, lost wages, and costs associated with restoring your credit. Having this safety net can provide peace of mind, knowing that you won’t be left to bear the financial burden alone.

  1. Peace of Mind

Perhaps one of the most significant benefits of ID protection services is the peace of mind they provide. Knowing that your personal information is being monitored and protected can alleviate anxiety about the risks of identity theft. This reassurance allows individuals and families to focus on their daily lives without constantly worrying about the security of their identities.

  1. Enhanced Security Features

Many ID protection services come with additional security features to enhance your overall online safety. These may include password managers, two-factor authentication, and secure browsing tools. By using these features, you can strengthen your defenses against identity theft and other cyber threats.

  1. Family Protection

Many ID protection services offer family plans that extend coverage to your loved ones. This means that you can protect not just your own identity but also that of your spouse, children, or other family members. Given that children are often targets of identity theft due to their clean credit histories, family coverage can provide a crucial layer of protection.

  1. Alerts and Notifications

ID protection services typically include alerts and notifications that keep you informed about any suspicious activity related to your identity. These real-time alerts can prompt you to take immediate action if necessary, such as freezing your credit or notifying your bank. Being informed helps you stay one step ahead of potential threats.

In a world where identity theft is a pervasive and evolving threat, ID protection services offer essential benefits for safeguarding your personal information. From proactive monitoring and credit oversight to recovery assistance and insurance, these services provide a comprehensive approach to identity security.

Investing in ID protection services not only protects your financial well-being but also grants you the peace of mind necessary to navigate today’s digital landscape confidently. With the right ID protection service, you can feel secure knowing that your identity is being monitored and protected against the growing risks of identity theft. Whether for individuals or families, the benefits of these services are clear, making them a valuable addition to your personal security strategy.

Modern Enterprise Tech Business Model And How Cisco Can Rise

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Cisco confirmed it is planning to cut thousands of jobs, totaling 7% of its global workforce, after reporting declining revenue for the third quarter in a row. The company’s results were better than expected, however, and shares jumped on the news. Cisco already cut 5% of its workforce earlier this year as part of a restructuring. It had about 85,000 employees at the end of 2023, before the layoffs began. The router maker has struggled with weak demand and supply chain issues but lately tried to diversify, acquiring cybersecurity firm Splunk in a $28 billion buyout. – LinkedIn News

Things happen and this world transforms. Many years ago, Cisco was at its peak. Yes, a CV with CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) was a blessed one, because suitors of employers would come along. Move it higher in the certification hierarchy, you may be going to America, from any city in Africa. In banking, three of my colleagues left within  weeks (Aha…, Uwa…, Gbe…), and they left in big ways: American recruiters sent them visas via FEDEX! 

But that Cisco has faded. Yes, software ate Cisco. Buying networking equipment is the old-stuff business model. You can only earn new revenue on existing deals when the customer returns to replace the equipment. Today, Wall Street likes recurring revenue where provided the customer is using that product, you would be earning money via subscriptions or licensing in perpetuity.

That perpetuity revenue was not the business model which Cisco ran on. It was like the Nokia feature phone where you pay and own, unlike the Apple iPhone where besides the hardware, Apple will still make money via the App Store apps. That is why Cisco is bleeding: “Cisco has announced plans to slash thousands of jobs as part of its strategic shift towards AI and cybersecurity. The move comes as the tech giant refocuses its efforts on emerging technologies, aligning its workforce with its new priorities. The proposed second round of layoff is coming after the company in February this year, laid off 5% of its global workforce.”

But it does seem like Cisco is modulating: “Notably, Cisco has also been working to establish itself as an Al networking vendor…the company announced a series of hardware and software platforms developed in collaboration with Nvidia designed to peddle its Ethernet kit to enterprises deploying GPU clusters …” Possibly, upon that business model, it can make money via how modern enterprise tech companies make money: perpetual licensing where you keep sending them money in seasons and out of seasons.

Re-invent that business model – and thrive.

Cisco to Cut Thousands of Jobs as it Shifts Focus to AI And Cybersecurity

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Technology company Cisco has announced plans to slash thousands of jobs as part of its strategic shift towards AI and cybersecurity.

The move comes as the tech giant refocuses its efforts on emerging technologies, aligning its workforce with its new priorities. The proposed second round of layoff is coming after the company in February this year, laid off 5% of its global workforce.

According to Reuters, the second round of layoffs, is expected to be similar in scope, or potentially slightly larger than the last round six months ago, that saw about 4,000 jobs cut. The official announcement could be disclosed on Wednesday when Cisco is due to share its fourth-quarter results.

The networking hardware and software maker is taking the difficult decision as it prepares for another challenging quarter. Cisco previously forecasted Q4 revenues of $13.4-$13.6 billion, down about 11 percent year-over-year. In addition to declining revenues, the firm has also grappled with falling profits. In Q3, it saw its net income plunge 41 percent YoY from $3.2 billion to $1.9 billion.

Cisco is heading into earnings week following several months of slow demand for its network equipment, as well as reduced demand and revenue decline that the company experienced which may be the driving factor behind its decision to cut thousands of jobs. In February, Cisco Chief Executive Officer Chuck Robbins attributed the decreased in demand to two main factors. He noted that there was a “greater degree of caution and scrutiny of deals” because of macroeconomic uncertainty.

Additionally, he disclosed that many customers still had unused network equipment left over from previous purchases. Cisco disclosed at the time that some customers had more than 20 weeks’ worth of excess inventory. Despite the layoffs, the company remains committed to investing in areas that are critical for its future growth, particularly in AI-driven solutions and enhanced cybersecurity measures. This restructuring underscores the company’s intent to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Notably, Cisco has also been working to establish itself as an Al networking vendor. At Cisco Live EU in February, the company announced a series of hardware and software platforms developed in collaboration with Nvidia designed to peddle its Ethernet kit to enterprises deploying GPU clusters or Al inference and training.

As the world continues to grapple with macroeconomic challenges, the tech industry, which was shaken by mass layoffs at the start of 2023, has continued to experience rounds of smaller layoffs as part of restructuring efforts throughout 2024. So far, more than 130,000 IT professionals have reportedly lost their jobs this year. The trend of job cuts however shows no signs of slowing down, as the industry continues to face economic challenges, competitive pressures, and the need to adapt to new market realities.

According to data from Layoffs.fyi, a staggering 130,482 employees across 397 companies have been laid off so far this year. As Cisco is reportedly preparing for another round of significant job cuts, several other tech companies have downsized their workforce.

Earlier in July, Intel announced plans to reduce its workforce significantly. The chipmaker is reportedly planning to lay off more than 15,000 employees, representing over 15 percent of its total workforce. Also, last month, tech giant Microsoft reduced its workforce by around 1,000 employees over primarily in its mixed reality and Azure ‘moonshots’ divisions.

African Union Endorses AI Adoption Across Member States

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The African Union (AU) recently greenlighted the adoption of Artificial intelligence (AI) across its member states, signaling a major shift in the continent’s approach to technology and innovation.

This decision was announced in a document published on the AU website titled “Continental Artificial Intelligence Strategy”. The AU executive council endorsed the Continental AI strategy during its 45th Ordinary Session in Accra, Ghana, on July 18-19, 2024. According to the Union, this endorsement underscores Africa’s commitment to an Africa-centric, development-focused approach to AI, promoting ethical, responsible, and equitable practices.

The AU wrote,

“Artificial Intelligence (Al) is more than a technological leap; it’s a transformative force reshaping our world. With far-reaching impacts across economics, society, and geopolitics, Al is driving revolutionary changes in healthcare, agriculture, finance, and education.

For Africa, Al is a strategic asset pivotal to achieving the aspirations of Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It promises to ignite new industries, fuel innovation, and create high-value jobs while preserving and advancing African culture and integration. In a landmark decision, the African Union Executive Council endorsed the Continental Al Strategy during its 45th Ordinary Session in Accra, Ghana, on July 18-19, 2024.

“This strategy underscores Africa’s commitment to an Africa-centric, development-focused approach to Al, promoting ethical, responsible, and equitable practices. The Continental Al Strategy calls for unified national approaches among AU Member States to navigate the complexities of Al-driven change, aiming to strengthen regional and global cooperation and position Africa as a leader in inclusive and responsible Al development.”

The AU’s Continental Artificial Intelligence Strategy outlines a five-year implementation period from 2025 to 2030, divided into two phases.  The initial phase, which covers from 2025-2026, prioritizes laying the groundwork by establishing governance frameworks, developing national Al strategies, mobilizing resources, and enhancing capacities within the African Union, Regional Economic Communities, specialized agencies, and member states.

The subsequent phase, from 2027 to 2030, focuses on the practical implementation of critical projects and initiatives outlined in the continental Al strategy. It is worth noting that the AU endorsement of AI adoption across member states aligns with its Agenda 2063, which envisions a prosperous Africa based on inclusive growth and sustainable development. AI is seen no doubt as a catalyst for achieving these goals by improving productivity and creating new opportunities across various sectors.

Notably, AI adoption will have a significant impact on economies across the African continent, where it will play a pivotal role in increasing efficiency in industries such as agriculture, mining, and manufacturing.

On the future outlook, the AU’s Al adoption marks a significant step forward for the continent. If successfully implemented, it could position Africa as a leader in the global Al landscape, driving innovation and sustainable development across its member states. However, the success of this initiative will largely depend on the commitment of individual countries to invest in the necessary infrastructure, education, and regulatory frameworks to support Al technologies.

Exploring Celsius’s Legal Battle Against Tether

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In the volatile world of cryptocurrency, legal disputes can emerge as swiftly as the markets fluctuate. A recent case that has captured the attention of the crypto community involves Celsius, a digital asset lender that has filed a lawsuit against Tether, the issuer of the world’s largest stablecoin, USDT. The lawsuit seeks to recover approximately $2.4 billion, which Celsius claims is due to the improper liquidation of 39,000 Bitcoin.

The origins of the dispute date back to an agreement in 2022, where Celsius borrowed USDT from Tether, providing Bitcoin as collateral. As the market took a downturn and the value of Bitcoin plummeted, Tether, adhering to the terms of the agreement, liquidated the collateral. Celsius, however, contends that the liquidation was mishandled and is now seeking restitution for the Bitcoin, which at the time of the lawsuit amounts to a staggering $2.4 billion.

Tether’s Stance on the Matter

Tether has responded to the lawsuit with a firm stance, labeling it a ‘meritless shakedown’ and attributing the legal action to financial mismanagement on the part of Celsius. Tether’s CEO, Paolo Ardoino, has been vocal about the company’s position, asserting that the lawsuit misunderstands the principles of risk management and liquidation processes. Ardoino reassures that Tether’s financial position is robust, with nearly $12 billion in equity, ensuring that USDT holders will not be affected, even if the lawsuit progresses.

This lawsuit is more than just a legal battle between two companies; it is indicative of the broader challenges facing the cryptocurrency industry. The case highlights the complexities of managing digital assets and the importance of clear, enforceable contracts. It also underscores the need for transparency and sound risk management practices in an industry that is still in its formative years.

One of the primary implications of this lawsuit is the potential for setting a legal precedent. The outcome could influence how similar disputes are resolved in the future, especially those involving collateral liquidation during market downturns. It may also prompt crypto firms to reassess their risk management strategies and the terms of their lending agreements to avoid similar conflicts.

Moreover, the case underscores the need for clearer regulatory frameworks to govern cryptocurrency transactions. As the industry matures, the establishment of standardized practices and legal guidelines becomes increasingly important to protect all parties involved in crypto lending and borrowing.

Another implication is the impact on the reputation and stability of stablecoins, particularly Tether, which is a central player in the crypto market. The resolution of this lawsuit could affect investor confidence in stablecoins and their issuing companies, potentially leading to increased scrutiny and calls for transparency.

Furthermore, the lawsuit brings to light the importance of contractual clarity and the adherence to agreed terms. It serves as a reminder that in the volatile world of cryptocurrencies, the fine print of agreements can have significant consequences when market conditions change.

As the case unfolds, the crypto community will be watching closely to see how the courts interpret the agreements and actions of both parties. The resolution of this lawsuit could have far-reaching consequences, potentially influencing the regulatory landscape and the operational practices of crypto firms worldwide.