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TECHNOLOGY

Kaspersky predicts key cybersecurity threats targeting children in 2024

January 18, 2024 5:06 p.m.

With most children able to access or own a smartphone or tablet, the age at which they begin their acquaintance with the digital world and technology keeps decreasing.

Therefore, it’s crucial for parents to stay informed about the latest cybersecurity threats targeting kids to better protect them from potential harm. In this post, Kaspersky experts explore some of the key cybersecurity trends parents should be aware of, and provide tips on how to safeguard their children’s online activities.

  1. Children will increasingly use AI tools that, so far, are not ready to provide the necessary level of cybersecurity and age-appropriate content

    According to a UN research, about 80 percent of young people claimed they interact with AI multiple times a day. With the development of AI, numerous little-known applications have emerged with seemingly harmless features, such as uploading a photo to receive a modified version. However, when children upload their images to such applications, they never know which databases their photos will ultimately remain, and whether they will be used further.

    Moreover, AI apps, specifically, chatbots can easily provide age-inappropriate content when prompted. For instance, there is a multitude of AI chatbots that are specifically designed to provide an “erotic” experience. Even though some require a form of age verification, this is dangerous since some children might opt to lie about their age and the prevention of such cases is insufficient.
  2. The growth of malicious actors’ attacks on young gamers

    According to the latest online statistics, 91 percent of children aged 3-15 play games on any device. For some games, unmoderated voice and text chat is a large part of the experience. With more young people online, criminals can virtually build trust in the same way they would in person. Firstly, cybercriminals gain the trust of young players by luring them with gifts or promises of friendship. Once they have the confidence of a young gamer, they then obtain their personal information by suggesting that they click on a phishing link, which downloads a malicious file onto their device disguised as a game mod for Minecraft or Fortnite, or even grooming them.
  3. The development of FinTech industry for kids marks the appearance of new threats

    An increasing number of banks are providing specialized products and services tailored for children, including banking cards designed for kids as young as 12. Yet, with the introduction of banking cards for children, the latter also become susceptible to financially motivated threat actors and vulnerable to conventional scams, like promises of a free PlayStation 5 or other valuable assets after entering card details on a phishing site. Using social engineering techniques, cybercriminals might exploit children’s trust by posing as peers and requesting the sharing of card details or money transfers to their accounts.
  4. The number of smart home threat cases with children being potential targets, will increase

    Despite the increasing number of cases of threats to smart home devices, manufacturers are not rushing to create cyber-immune tech that preemptively prevents potential exploits of vulnerabilities. However, this also means children can become tools for cybercriminals in an attack. For instance, if a smart device becomes a fully functional surveillance tool and a child is home alone, cybercriminals can contact them through the device and request sensitive information such as their name, address and time, when their parents are not at home — or even their parents’ credit card number. In such a scenario, beyond just device hacking, there is also a risk of financial data loss or even a physical attack.
  5. Children will demand their personal online space is respected

    As children mature, they develop greater self-awareness, encompassing an understanding of their personal space, privacy, and sensitive data, both offline and in their online activities. Consequently, when a parent firmly communicates the intent to install a parenting digital app on a device, not all kids will take it calmly. This is why parents now require the skill to discuss their offspring’s online experience and the importance of parenting digital apps for online safety while respecting personal space. This involves establishing clear boundaries and expectations and discussing the reasons for using the app with any child.
  6. Children are eager to download apps that are unavailable in their country, but stumble upon malicious copies

    If an app is unavailable in your region, young users will look for alternatives, which is often a malicious copy. Even if they turn to official app stores like Google Play, they still run the risk of falling prey to cybercriminals. From 2020 to 2022, Kaspersky researchers have found more than 190 apps infected with Harly Trojan on Google Play, which signed up users for paid services without their knowledge. A conservative estimate of the number of downloads of these apps is 4.8 million, but the actual figure of victims may be even higher. 

“As we can see, many of the trends that are playing out in society are also affecting children, making them potential targets for attackers. This includes both the development and popularity of AI and smart homes, as well as the expansion of the world of gaming and FinTech industry. Therefore, it is crucial to teach children the basics of cybersecurity from an early age, how not to fall into the trap of cybercriminals, what cyberthreats can occur during gaming, and how to properly protect your personal data. All this is now a must-have knowledge not only for adults, but also for the youngest users,” comments Andrey Sidenko, security and privacy expert at Kaspersky.

To learn more about cybersecurity threats targeting kids in 2024, read the full post on KDaily.

Kaspersky experts are convinced that protecting children from cybersecurity threats in 2024 requires proactive measures from parents: 

  • By staying informed about the latest threats and actively monitoring their children’s online activities, parents can create a safer online environment for their kids. 
  • It’s crucial for parents to have open communication with their children about the potential risks they may encounter online and to enforce strict guidelines to ensure their safety.
  • To help parents introduce their children to cybersecurity amidst the evolving threat landscape, Kaspersky experts have developed the Kaspersky Cybersecurity Alphabet with key concepts from the cybersecurity industry. In this book, your kid will get to know new technologies, learn the main cyber hygiene rules, find out how to avoid online threats, and recognize fraudsters’ tricks. After reading this book together, you’ll be sure that your kid knows how to distinguish phishing websites, how VPN and QR-codes work, and even what honeypots and encryption are and what role they play in modern cybersecurity. You can download the pdf version of the book for free and go through the basics of cybersecurity with your child, building their cybersafe future. 
  • To secure your child from downloading any malicious files during their gaming experience, we advise to install a trusted security solution on their device. 
  • With the right tools such as Kaspersky’s digital parenting app Safe Kids, parents can effectively safeguard their children against cyber threats in the digital age.
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TECHNOLOGY

Pre-order vivo V50 Lite until April 25 to enjoy exclusive perks

1:30 p.m. April 18, 2025

There’s a new must-have phone in town and it’s Maine Mendoza-approved. Meet the all-new vivo V50 Lite with features that are perfect for go-getters, creatives, and trendsetters.

Whether you’re a heavy user or someone who’s always on the go like Maine, the massive 6500mAh BlueVolt battery will keep you powered all day. And when it’s finally time to recharge, vivo’s 90W FlashCharge ensures you’re back to full power in a flash. It’s no wonder this is Maine’s latest favorite!

But the vivo V50 Lite isn’t just about battery life. It’s built to impress from the inside out.

What makes the vivo V50 Lite a game-changer?

  • SGS Five-Star Drop Resistance – Engineered for durability so you can stay worry-free even during accidental drops.
  • IP65 Dust and Water Resistance – Ready for unpredictable weather and everyday mishaps.
  • 60-Month Smooth Experience – Enjoy reliable performance that lasts for five years.
  • AI SuperLink – Stay connected even in weak signal areas with this smart, always-on connectivity solution.
  • 50MP Sony IMX882 Camera with Aura Light – Capture vibrant, clear, and well-lit photos even in low light.
  • 120Hz Ultra Vision AMOLED Display – See and scroll with incredible clarity and smoothness.
  • Dual Stereo Speakers with up to 400% Volume – Experience rich, immersive audio whether you’re watching or listening.

Choose the right vibe for you

The vivo V50 Lite comes in three powerful variants to match your lifestyle:

  • 8GB RAM + 256GB ROM (4G) – Php 13,999
  • 8GB RAM + 256GB ROM (5G) – Php 16,999
  • 12GB RAM + 512GB ROM (5G) – Php 19,999

Until April 25, vivo fans who pre-order the V50 Lite will enjoy exclusive perks:

  • Php 1,000 Off
  • Limited Edition vivo Buds
  • vivo VIP Card with 5-year battery warranty and 6 months extended warranty

Visit any vivo store nationwide and secure your vivo V50 Lite today. Don’t miss out as this is your chance to own the phone that’s not only smart and stylish, but also Maine Mendoza’s top pick for 2025.

The vivo V50 Lite: power meets beauty. Pre-order yours now!

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TECHNOLOGY

Samsung unveils epic screens for the ultimate gaming experience

5:19 p.m. April 8, 2025

As the Philippine gaming community continues expanding rapidly, the urge for top-tier gaming displays has never been greater. Samsung stands at the forefront, unlocking a new phase of gaming for Filipinos through its Odyssey lineup that is set to take users beyond reality.

Samsung’s gaming monitors deliver unparalleled speed, precision, and immersion from the revolutionary glasses-free Odyssey 3D to the ultrawide Odyssey G9 and the industry-first 4K, 240Hz OLED G8. 

A New Dimension in Gaming with the Odyssey 3D

The 27-inch Odyssey 3D (G90XF model) monitor introduces a next-level 3D experience, without the need for special glasses. By combining advanced eye-tracking with a lenticular lens, it delivers vibrant, lifelike 3D visuals through Samsung’s Reality Hub app. 

Samsung has collaborated with top developers like Nexon (The First Berserker: Khazan) and Neowiz (Lies of P, Overture DLC) to ensure seamless 3D optimization. The built-in AI-powered 3D conversion enhances both gaming and video content, supported by a 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms Gray-to-Gray (GtG) response time for fluid, responsive performance on its 4K screen. AMD FreeSync™ Premium and NVIDIA G-SYNC compatibility eliminate choppiness and lag, even during fast-paced action.

For deeper immersion, Edge Lighting adapts to in-game visuals, illuminating the gaming space with synchronized ambient colors that amplify the 3D visuals and bring game environments to life. 

Stunning OLED Brilliance with the Odyssey OLED G8

Available in 27” and 32”, the Odyssey OLED G8 sets a new standard for gaming displays. It features the industry’s highest pixel density for a 27” display, paired with the world’s first 4K resolution monitor with 240Hz refresh rate, delivering unmatched fluidity and responsiveness. 

Its quantum dot technology and VESA DisplayHDR™ TrueBlack 400 ensure vivid colors and deep contrasts. Built for long-term durability, it features dynamic Cooling Safety and Samsung OLED Safeguard+ to prevent burn-in and ensure prolonged performance. 

Other standout features include AI image upscaling, customizable Core Lighting+, and a sleek metal design, making this monitor as stylish as it is functional. Glare-free technology, certified by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), reduces screen reflections, while the AI processor optimizes lower-resolution content for the full 4K experience.

Expanding Horizons with the Odyssey G9

With its expansive 49” Dual QHD curved display and Picture-in-Picture features, the Odyssey G9 (G91F model) is ideal for immersive gameplay and multitasking. The HDR10+ GAMING supports optimized brightness and color range for a dynamic picture. A 144Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro guarantee smooth, vibrant gameplay. The Odyssey G9 also streamlines gaming access with Auto Source Switch+, automatically detecting connected devices and displaying them as soon as they are powered on, making gaming setups more effortless.

Unleash Victory with your Next Phase of Gaming

The advanced features and seamless connectivity ensure Filipino gamers stay ahead in the rapidly evolving gaming landscape. Each movement is presented with accuracy, giving players a clear competitive advantage, because when it comes to gaming, second best is never an option.

Pre-order Samsung’s Odyssey monitors until April 19, 2025 and enjoy exclusive discounts and perks. Early bird customers receive PHP 3,000 worth of e-vouchers, along with special deals such as up to Php 27,600 on the 32” Odyssey OLED G8,  Php 19,800 off on the 49” Odyssey G9, and Php 45,850 off on the 27” Odyssey 3D. Elevate your gaming setup and seize the victory you’ve been striving for.

To know more about Samsung’s latest gaming technology, visit https://www.samsung.com/ph/monitors/odyssey-gaming-monitor/.

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TECHNOLOGY

DigiPlus bags 7 wins at 2025 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards

3:56 p.m. April 4, 2025

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. (DigiPlus), the pioneer in digital sports and entertainment in the Philippines and the company behind leading gaming brands such as BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone, won seven honors –  including five coveted gold awards – at the 2025 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards. 

This milestone places DigiPlus among the most awarded companies in the region this year, spotlighting its strategic growth and transformative impact across digital entertainment, social development, and investor relations. 

The Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards are the only business awards program that recognizes innovation across all 29 markets in the region. Widely regarded as the world’s premier business awards, the Stevie Awards represent a prestigious recognition of business excellence. 

DigiPlus bagged five Gold Stevies for ‘Innovative Achievement in Growth’, ‘Innovation in Investor Relations’, ‘Excellence in Social Impact Companies’, ‘Innovation in Annual Reports’, and ‘Innovation in Corporate Websites’. The company also clinched Silver and Bronze Stevies for ‘Achievement in Product Innovation’ and ‘Innovation in Brand Renovation’ respectively. 

At the core of these wins is DigiPlus’ commitment to innovation and digital transformation. From redefining the player experience through localized and immersive content, to launching a refreshed brand identity that resonates with a more connected and tech-savvy user base, DigiPlus has embraced a future-forward mindset. The company’s calculated investments in big data, cutting-edge technologies, and stakeholder engagement have not only fueled business growth, but also opened inclusive pathways to digital participation through its social development arm, BingoPlus Foundation. 

“This momentous victory at the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards affirms DigiPlus’ emergence as a true powerhouse of innovation and progress, reshaping industry boundaries and redefining digital consumer engagement on a global scale,” said DigiPlus Chairman Eusebio Tanco. “Through consistent growth and business performance, DigiPlus reaffirms its unwavering commitment to creating long-term value.”

Winning entries in the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards undergo a rigorous, multi-layered evaluation by an esteemed panel of judges composed of business and industry leaders across the region. “The 12th Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards received an impressive array of outstanding entries,” said Maggie Miller, President of the Stevie Awards. “This year’s winners have clearly shown their dedication to innovation, and we commend their resilience and imaginative efforts.”

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