Author: Next

  • The Dangers of AI Washing: What It Is and How to Avoid It

    The term AI Washing refers to the practice of some companies exaggerating or falsifying their use of artificial intelligence (AI) in their products and services to capitalize on its popularity and attract consumers and investors. According to a study by MMC Ventures, around 40% of startups claiming to use AI do not actually use this technology. This practice has become common as AI has gained notoriety and prestige in the market.

    Companies use the term AI as a marketing tool without having the real technology to back up their claims. This deception can be difficult for consumers and investors to detect, as they rely on technological promises to make informed decisions.

    Why is it important?

    AI Washing presents multiple risks for both consumers and the market in general:

    1. Consumer distrust: When companies make false claims about their products, consumers can become skeptical and distrust genuine AI. This can slow the adoption of truly innovative and useful technologies.
    2. Incorrect investment decisions: Investors can be misled into funding companies that are not developing advanced technology, which could divert funds from companies that are genuinely driving innovation.
    3. Unfair competition: Companies practicing AI Washing can gain an unfair advantage over competitors that are truly investing in AI development and application.
    4. Environmental impact: The irresponsible implementation of AI can lead to unnecessarily high energy consumption, contributing to climate change. AI technologies require large amounts of data and processing, resulting in high energy consumption.
    5. Inflated expectations: Consumers may expect more than what the technology can currently offer, leading to frustration and disappointment.

    Additionally, the negative perception of AI due to AI Washing can lead to stricter regulation, hindering the development and deployment of genuine and useful technologies.

    To protect yourself from AI Washing, it is essential to adopt a critical approach and stay well-informed about the products and services marketed as AI-driven.

    Guide to Recognizing if a Service Truly Uses AI

    1. Transparency in descriptions: Companies that genuinely use AI provide clear details on how and where this technology is applied in their products.
    2. Evidence and verifiable results: Look for case studies, user testimonials, and verifiable data that demonstrate the effectiveness of AI in the product or service.
    3. Human intervention: If a service requires significant human intervention, it is likely not heavily dependent on AI.
    4. Reputation and expert opinions: Consult expert opinions and check the company’s industry reputation. Truly innovative companies often have a good reputation and receive recognition for their technological developments.
    5. Certifications and awards: Verify if the company has received certifications or awards for its AI developments. These recognitions are usually an indication that the company is effectively and authentically using AI.
    6. Transparency in data usage: Genuine companies explain how data is collected, processed, and used to train their AI models.

    To avoid falling victim to AI Washing, stay informed and critical. Ensure that technological promises are backed by concrete evidence and transparency in their applications.

    Other Types of Washing

    Greenwashing

    Definition: When a company exaggerates or lies about its environmental efforts to appear more eco-friendly than it really is.

    Example: Volkswagen promoted its diesel vehicles as eco-friendly but manipulated emissions tests to appear less polluting than they were​ (Green Hive)​.

    Pinkwashing (LGBT Washing)

    Definition: The practice of using support for the LGBTQ+ community as a marketing tool without a real commitment to the rights and well-being of this community.

    Example: Companies that donate to anti-LGBTQ+ politicians while using pride symbols in their campaigns​ (FairPlanet)​​ (2030.Builders)​.

    Social Washing

    Definition: When companies promote their image of social responsibility without meaningful actions to support their claims.

    Example: Companies claiming to support racial equality while funding politicians who back discriminatory policies​ (Morningstar)​.

  • What Qualities Does the Toto Website Offer?

    Online sports betting has become more and more popular worldwide in recent years. Technology has advanced quickly in the twenty-first century, leaving online gambling platforms as the only option for gamblers. If you’re looking for a reliable online sports betting site, go no further than Toto Site. The most secure and safest website to wager on sports is Toto Site. To give gamers a seamless gaming experience, it has successfully integrated its service with other Login Koitoto betting platforms. It is an overview of every feature of the toto site.

    Enhancing the website with verification

    I want to confirm the website gets validated before placing a wager on any sport so that users may feel secure using it. Because they safeguard their gaming accounts, users tend to trust applications that provide the edge when placing bets. Users may use this app to determine if an app is certified; the website also offers this service. Users can rely on the website, which is reliable. 

     

    There are a few fundamentals that individuals must grasp to comprehend the verification process. However, they will have to wait till the verification process is complete. In addition, the Toto website’s infrastructure offers smooth betting, allowing wagering on any sport, and is safe and secure. The most important thing to remember is to concentrate on online sports betting, read the instructions on placing a bet, and notice methods offered on the website. The website also provides a brief description of these tactics.  

    Dietary analysis 

    You must first comprehend the idea of food safety and adhere to the guidelines on the Toto website to confirm you do so. But remember that product verification could be the first step in the authentication procedure. All Toto players profit from this, and with the help of Toto sites, users may steer clear of some of the worst and most scammy websites on the Internet. In addition to being a pleasant way for people to make a lot of money, playing straight on the site allows you to gamble without wondering if you’re playing on a guaranteed site. 

    The notion of site confirmation

    When using this website, we prioritise the most features to gain our customers’ trust when they bet on sports. Because individuals are always curious about how safe and secure their gaming accounts are, websites that continually give the odds get the cause of this. 

    Security and shielding

    Most people look for a legitimate Login Koitoto website to assess other online casinos’ reliability due to the elevated chances of falling victim to fraud. As a result, you must visit a website. Gamblers use this platform because they are concerned about stability and security. Betters must safeguard against internet criminals and scammers with their money or personal information. Those websites provide gamblers with excellent security and reliability. 

    Fraud confirmation on the TOTO website

    Fraud confirmation is just one more essential security measure. As such, players get barred from accessing unauthorised websites on the network. There are no frauds or con artists on the sports betting platform. The ability to utilise a safe and secure platform is dependent on passing the subsequent verification procedure.  

    Absent viruses

    Virus attacks on toto gaming systems are uncommon. Therefore, you don’t need to download any software to your device to utilise the certification services and gaming options presented here. One of the things about such a website is that its administrators provide anti-virus software, which improves security walls and keeps viruses out of your machine. 

    Fastest returns

    Reputable websites like this will ensure wagers and money withdrawals are processed quickly. Again, if you’re considering using this platform, this is the perfect time to swiftly and conveniently place your bet. It is a typical occurrence for sports betting providers to take bets on athletic events. 

    In conclusion

    Once you’re at ease with the game, the goal is to make more money. You may look at the several games that are a part of it. Experience the major site by playing the toto games; this will assist you in comprehending the necessary gaming strategies and tactics. They have different qualities and values for playing to continue with the game. Finally, because it is a reliable internet platform where users can engage in activities like betting on websites and playing any game on this website, it is used to test different software linked to online gambling. Thus, by utilising these services, anyone may wager on it and potentially earn large sums.

  • The Rise of AI-Driven Disinformation Attacks in 2024

    In 2024, AI-driven disinformation attacks are becoming nearly daily occurrences, marking a significant escalation. According to a study published in the scientific journal PNAS Nexus, AI is already being used to manipulate public opinion. This surge in disinformation comes in a critical election year with major elections in the United States, France, the United Kingdom, and India, raising serious concerns about electoral integrity and democratic stability.

    The Impact of AI-Driven Disinformation

    AI-powered disinformation is not a minor issue. With the ability to generate and distribute false content on a massive and convincing scale, these attacks can influence public opinion, polarize societies, and alter election outcomes. Advanced language models enable the creation of realistic texts and multimedia that are difficult to distinguish from genuine content. Moreover, the interconnected nature of digital platforms amplifies the reach of this content, potentially reaching billions.

    Key Operations and Actors

    A study from George Washington University maps the dynamics between malicious communities on digital platforms. While major platforms like Facebook and Twitter are significant battlegrounds, smaller, specialized platforms like Telegram, Rumble, Bitchute, Gab, and Minds play crucial roles in spreading disinformation. These sites allow extremist groups to form and persist due to lax moderation.

    The actors behind these operations vary, including extremist groups and nation-states aiming to influence international politics. Notable operations include Russia’s Bad Grammar, China’s Spamouflage, and campaigns linked to Iran and commercial operators in Israel, showcasing how AI is used to create and spread disinformation.

    Election Year Impact

    The use of AI in disinformation has particularly concerning implications in a year with multiple critical elections. These attacks’ ability to manipulate public opinion could significantly impact electoral outcomes in key countries. The PNAS Nexus study warns that generative AI could escalate beyond the levels seen during the pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, using techniques like astroturfing and click farms to create the appearance of genuine social movements.

    Evolving Threats

    The Red Queen hypothesis suggests that these malicious groups are constantly evolving to avoid detection and elimination by content moderation tools. This cycle of continuous improvement means that attacks will not only become more frequent but also more sophisticated and harder to detect.

    Real-World Examples

    Recent reports from the European External Action Service (EEAS) and OpenAI confirm that AI-driven disinformation is already a reality. Examples include altered videos for political destabilization, fake politician audios, and AI avatars used to enhance the image of controversial figures. In the 2023 European Parliament elections, an analysis by the Maldita Foundation found that AI-generated content represented 2.2% of the disinformation on platforms like TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram.

    Addressing the Challenge

    Tackling the rise of AI-driven disinformation is a significant challenge that requires urgent attention and action. Effective content moderation, increased algorithm transparency, and international collaboration are essential to combat these threats. Digital platforms must invest in advanced detection mechanisms and be accountable for quickly removing false content and malicious accounts. Additionally, users need to be better informed and more critical of the content they consume and share.

    The threat of AI-driven disinformation is real and growing. Only through coordinated and proactive efforts can we protect the integrity of our democratic systems and societal stability.

  • Brazil Prohibits Meta from Using Local Data to Train AI

    The National Data Protection Authority (ANPD) of Brazil has prohibited Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, from using personal data of Brazilian users to train its artificial intelligence (AI) systems. This decision came after Meta updated its privacy policies in a non-transparent manner, raising alarms among authorities.

    Importance of AI regulation

    The measure responds to concerns about user privacy and security. The ANPD argues that Meta’s policy changes were not adequately communicated and that using personal data to train AI could pose significant risks, especially for minors. With 102 million active users in Brazil, the implications of this decision are vast. Data protection is crucial in a world where personal information is constantly used to enhance technologies, and this case underscores the importance of transparency and informed consent.

    Transparency and user rights protection should be priorities

    Brazil’s action against Meta highlights the growing global concern over how big tech companies handle personal data. This case might encourage other countries to implement similar measures to protect their citizens. Transparency and user rights protection should be priorities in the development of advanced technologies.

    Related Cases

    • European Union (EU): Implemented the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), challenging Meta’s data use policies in 11 countries​ (euronews)​​ (MIT Technology Review)​.
    • United States: California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) grants residents control over their personal data.
    • China: Developing a comprehensive AI law to unify its fragmented regulations​ (MIT Technology Review)​.
    • Canada: Bill C-27 aims to modernize privacy regulations, including AI data use​ (euronews)​.
    • Australia: Revising the Privacy Act to address AI challenges​ (MIT Technology Review)​.
  • How Does OCR and Scanning Work? 4 Points

    OCR (Optical Character Recognition) and scanning technology play a crucial role in digitizing printed and handwritten text. Scanning captures physical documents, while OCR processes the scanned data to extract text, making it editable and searchable. In this article, we will explore how scanning and OCR work, their benefits, and common applications.

    What is Scanning?

    Scanning is the process of capturing images or text from physical documents and converting them into a digital format. This process is commonly done using:

    • Flatbed Scanners: Place a document on a glass surface for high-quality scans.
    • Handheld Scanners: Portable devices used for quick document scanning.
    • Overhead Scanners: Camera-based scanners that capture book pages without damage.
    • Smartphone Scanning Apps: Apps like Adobe Scan and CamScanner allow mobile scanning.

    What is OCR (Optical Character Recognition)?

    OCR is a technology that analyzes scanned images and extracts text, converting it into machine-readable content. This allows digital documents to be searchable, editable, and usable for various applications.

    How Does OCR Work?

    1. Image Preprocessing

    Before recognizing text, OCR software enhances scanned images by:

    • Removing noise and blurring.
    • Adjusting contrast and brightness.
    • Deskewing tilted images for better accuracy.

    2. Text Detection

    OCR software identifies text areas within an image and separates characters, words, and paragraphs.

    3. Character Recognition

    OCR algorithms compare detected characters with a database of fonts and handwriting patterns to match and extract text.

    4. Post-Processing

    OCR refines the extracted text using:

    • Spell-checking to correct recognition errors.
    • Contextual analysis to improve accuracy.

    Benefits of OCR and Scanning

    • Digitization: Converts physical documents into digital files.
    • Searchability: Enables text search within scanned documents.
    • Accessibility: Helps visually impaired individuals access text through screen readers.
    • Data Extraction: Automates document processing for businesses.
    • Storage Efficiency: Reduces the need for physical storage.

    Common Applications of OCR

    • Document Management: Organizing scanned paperwork efficiently.
    • Banking & Finance: Processing checks and invoices.
    • Legal & Government: Digitizing contracts and official documents.
    • Healthcare: Managing patient records electronically.
    • Retail & Logistics: Automating invoice and receipt processing.

    FAQs About OCR and Scanning

    ❓ Can OCR recognize handwriting?
    ✅ Yes, but accuracy varies depending on handwriting clarity and OCR software capability.

    ❓ What file formats support OCR?
    ✅ OCR works with PDFs, JPEGs, PNGs, and TIFF files, among others.

    ❓ Is OCR 100% accurate?
    ✅ OCR accuracy depends on scan quality, font type, and image clarity. Advanced AI-based OCR improves recognition rates.

    Conclusion

    OCR and scanning technologies revolutionize the way we store, access, and process information. From digitizing books to automating business workflows, these tools enhance efficiency and accessibility. If you’re looking to implement OCR, consider high-quality scanning and reliable software for optimal results.

  • Israel’s Military Strikes Hamas Stronghold in Gaza Offensive

    In a recent development, Israel’s military launched a successful attack on a significant Hamas stronghold during their second ground offensive in Gaza. This stronghold was a key operational center utilized by Hamas operatives, planners, and masterminds. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have pledged to present evidence demonstrating that the terrorist group is using civilian locations to carry out their attacks.

    Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, the spokesperson for the IDF, stated during a press briefing that Israel continued its offensive across land, air, and sea, with a particular focus on the Shejaiya neighborhood. This area is identified as one of Hamas’s major terrorist strongholds. The IDF’s actions resulted in the elimination of Hamas operatives and the destruction of rocket launch sites.

    Admiral Hagari emphasized, “In the coming hours, we will reveal evidence that shows Hamas’s use of humanitarian facilities for terrorist infrastructures, endangering the citizens of Gaza. I repeat, we will expose these materials that connect Hamas to the cynical use it makes of humanitarian facilities.”

    Additionally, Admiral Hagari provided an update on the situation, reporting that the number of deceased IDF soldiers stands at 310, and the number of hostages is currently 229. He emphasized that every possible effort, encompassing civilian, operational, and intelligence endeavors, is being made to prioritize the safe return of the hostages.

    This offensive marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict, shedding light on the intricate challenges faced by both sides. The IDF’s commitment to revealing evidence of Hamas’s tactics aims to bring attention to the exploitation of civilian locations for military purposes. The situation continues to evolve, and further updates are anticipated in the coming days.

  • This war is not about the liberation of Palestine: Temoris Grecko

    It’s important to note that this is not a war representing all Palestinians or the inhabitants of Gaza in general; it is an initiative of Hamas. Unfortunately, there are expected to be numerous civilian casualties, with the majority being Palestinian, but there will also be Israeli victims.

    It’s crucial to understand that the goal of this war is not the liberation of Palestine. The parties belonging to the Palestine Liberation Organization, founded by Yasir Arafat, are declared enemies of Hamas.

    This is because Hamas is a militia made up of extremist religious individuals who have established an oppressive regime in Gaza. They did not consult the population before launching this offensive, and unfortunately, it will be the inhabitants of Gaza who will suffer the most direct consequences.

    When I was covering the war in 2014 from inside Gaza, Israeli propaganda accused us of not showing Hamas members launching rockets. However, this accusation was baseless, as we couldn’t actually observe them. Hamas had built an extensive underground network that included barracks and dormitories from which they carried out their actions. Israeli drones had complete control of the airspace and as soon as they located a Hamas member, they would eliminate them. To avoid confusion, we wore blue vests with the inscription “PRESS.”

    Civilians are the ones who remain on the surface and bear the brunt of Israeli airstrikes. These civilians do not have the power to vote and are obliged to follow the decisions of the Islamist leaders.

    So far, the immediate objectives of the war initiated by Hamas are not entirely clear. Its level of planning and execution is unprecedented and has caught the Israelis by surprise. This suggests that they are following a plan with concrete goals that they believe they can achieve.

    However, it’s important to emphasize that the well-being of the Gaza population is not a priority for Hamas in any case. Their goal is to impose their religious dictatorship on the entire region.

    Israel is responding with considerable force. In 2014, in just 15 days, they managed to eliminate all of their military targets. They then spent the next 40 days destroying civilian infrastructure, including residential buildings and UN schools that served as shelters, as they couldn’t show weakness by decreasing the intensity of their attacks. The human cost was immense.

    Now, Netanyahu and the generals have been challenged by an offensive they couldn’t anticipate, despite their advanced technology and espionage networks. It has been decades since they suffered such severe damage, and they are likely seeking revenge.

    It’s plausible that Hamas may be calculating that taking hostages could force negotiations in which they have an advantage. However, it’s uncertain. In 2011, Israel exchanged soldier Gilad Shalit for 1027 Palestinian prisoners, so they may now seek to restore their image of absolute superiority, reaffirm the sense of security of their population, and strengthen the image of Netanyahu’s far-right government, which is already quite contested.

  • Strategies to Increase Your Google Review Rating and Enhance Online Reputation

    A high Google review rating can significantly impact your business’s online reputation and influence potential customers’ decisions. Earning positive reviews is not only a testament to your product or service quality but also a valuable marketing tool. In this article, we’ll explore effective strategies to increase your Google review rating and enhance your online presence. If you think to Buy Google Reviews for your business click on Link.  

    1. Provide Outstanding Service:

    The foundation of positive reviews is exceptional service or high-quality products. Ensure that you consistently deliver on your promises, meet customer expectations, and exceed them whenever possible.

    1. Ask Satisfied Customers for Reviews:

    Actively encourage happy customers to leave reviews on Google. You can do this through email follow-ups, social media posts, or even in-person requests. Make it easy for them by providing direct links to your Google review page.

    1. Timing Matters:

    Request reviews from customers when they are most satisfied with your product or service. This might be immediately after a successful transaction or once they’ve experienced the full benefits of what you offer.

    1. Create a Google Review Link:

    Generate a customized Google Review link using the Google Maps “Place ID” feature. Share this link with your customers, making it convenient for them to leave reviews directly on your Google listing. If You Find 7 Best Websites to Buy Google Review in 2023 check. 

    1. Optimize Your Google My Business Profile:

    Ensure your Google My Business profile is complete and up-to-date with accurate information, including your business hours, location, contact details, and high-quality images. A well-maintained profile invites trust and engagement.

    1. Engage with Existing Reviews:

    Respond to all reviews, both positive and negative, in a professional and timely manner. Acknowledge and thank customers for positive feedback and address concerns in a respectful and constructive way.

    1. Implement a Review Generation Strategy:

    Develop a systematic approach to collecting reviews. This might include setting review goals, designating a team member responsible for reviews, and regularly monitoring progress.

    1. Offer Incentives (Carefully):

    While incentivizing reviews can be effective, be cautious. Google’s policies prohibit offering incentives in exchange for positive reviews. Instead, you can encourage reviews without directly rewarding customers for positive feedback.

    1. Leverage Customer Feedback:

    Pay attention to customer feedback, both positive and negative. Use it as an opportunity to improve your business and address any recurring issues that may be affecting your review rating.

    1. Promote Your Google Reviews:

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    1. Consistency is Key:

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    Maintain a consistent approach to requesting, managing, and responding to reviews. Building and maintaining a strong online reputation is an ongoing effort.

     

    If you will find the best website for Buy Google review check 7 Best Websites to Buy Google Review.

    Conclusion:

    Increasing your Google review rating is not about manipulating feedback but about delivering exceptional service and encouraging satisfied customers to share their experiences. Building trust, addressing concerns, and actively engaging with your audience can help you steadily improve your Google review rating and enhance your online reputation. Remember, authenticity and transparency are fundamental to building trust with your customers and the online community.

     

  • Google’s Manipulation of Search Queries: Unraveling the Deception

    In the ongoing antitrust case against Google, revelations show the company’s secret efforts to boost profits. This includes an internal slide detailing changes to its search algorithm, particularly a “semantic matching” overhaul that alters queries to generate more commercial results. Google’s manipulation of queries benefits the company financially but harms users and advertisers. The practice is largely imperceptible, contributing to Google’s over 90% market share dominance. The deceptive tactic undermines search engine quality and drives up advertising costs.

    Dont be evil Google motto

    1/ 💡 Startling revelations in the antitrust case against Google expose the company’s profit-driven tactics. An internal slide revealed alterations to its search algorithm, prioritizing commercial results. #GoogleAntitrust

    2/ 🔄 Google’s manipulation of search queries redirects users, generating more revenue for the company. This practice, largely unnoticed, impacts both users and advertisers negatively. #SearchEngineManipulation

    3/ 🕵️‍♂️ The deceptive tactic gives Google a market share of over 90%, cementing its dominance. Users are unknowingly subject to skewed search results, undermining the integrity of the search engine. #GoogleDominance

    4/ 💸 While Google benefits financially, users and advertisers bear the brunt of this manipulation. Advertising costs rise, and search quality deteriorates. The need for transparency and fair competition is evident. #FairSearchPractices

    5/ 🌐 It’s crucial to scrutinize Google’s practices and advocate for a level playing field in the search engine market. Transparency and accountability are essential for a healthy digital ecosystem. #SearchEngineFairness #TechEthics

    See more at Wired

  • Apple Addresses iPhone 15 Pro Overheating Issues

    Apple has acknowledged overheating problems with the iPhone 15 Pro. They will release an iOS 17 update soon to fix the bug causing the issue. Apple identified conditions leading to the overheating, especially during initial setup or restoration due to increased background activity. Another bug in iOS 17 affecting some users will also be addressed. Third-party apps’ recent updates are overloading the system, but Apple is collaborating with developers to resolve it. The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus seem unaffected, likely due to different hardware. Apple didn’t specify the update’s exact release date, but assured it’s coming soon. This move is seen positively as it addresses a significant concern for iPhone 15 Pro users.

    1/ 📱 Apple has acknowledged overheating issues with the iPhone 15 Pro and is set to release an iOS 17 update to fix the bug causing the problem.

    2/ 🔧 The update will address conditions leading to overheating, especially during initial setup or restoration due to increased background activity, according to Apple.

    3/ 🐞 Additionally, Apple has identified another bug in iOS 17 impacting some users, which will be resolved in a forthcoming software update.

    4/ 📲 Some third-party apps’ recent updates are overloading the system, contributing to the overheating problem. Apple is actively working with app developers to find a solution.

    5/ 🔄 It’s reassuring to see Apple taking steps to address these issues, which have caused inconvenience for iPhone 15 Pro users.

    6/ 📅 While an exact release date for the update hasn’t been provided, Apple has stated that it’s coming soon. Let’s hope this means in the coming days, not weeks.

    7/ 🤞 iPhone 15 Pro series users are likely eager to receive this update, and it’s a positive move towards enhancing their experience.

    See more at Android Head Lines