Tech Rundown: Hacker's paradise

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Here’s today's tech rundown — everything you need to know from the world of tech in 3 minutes!

In today’s email:

• Genetic company sees major hack

• JPMorgan already benefiting from AI

• Top 100 photos this year

The Lead Story

Genetic testing giant 23andMe recently disclosed a data breach affecting 0.1% of its users, approximately 14,000 individuals. At first glance, while unfortunate, this seemed like a containable concern.

But the true impact was much larger: Hackers accessed files containing ancestral information affecting a staggering 6.9 million users.

The breach compromised data from 5.5 million individuals who had opted into the DNA Relatives feature, exposing sensitive information like names, birth years, relationship details, and ancestry reports.

Another 1.4 million users had their family tree profile information accessed. The company reports no DNA records were taken.

The hack, which impacted nearly half of 23andMe's reported 14 million customers, highlights the need for greater transparency in such incidents and reinforces the importance of robust cybersecurity measures in managing sensitive genetic information.

This incident follows an October hacker claim, where DNA data of 23andMe users was allegedly offered for sale on an online forum. (Analysis found that leaked data matched genetic records that were digitally published.) 23andMe attributed the breach to customers reusing passwords.

This breach likely sits different than most. When online criminals steal peoples’ financial details, commit identity fraud, or hack an enterprise — it’s a recoverable event. Despite the challenges involved, money can be reimbursed, and identities can be regained.

However, genetic and ancestral information is inherently personal and unchangeable. It constitutes an integral part of one's identity, and the compromise of this information may be perceived by many as a more profound violation than the loss of a credit card.

This incident also prompts an exploration of the delicate ethical considerations tied to genetic data.

Companies like 23andMe play a pivotal role in not only advancing scientific knowledge but also in responsibly managing the expectations and trust of their user base.

As genetic data becomes increasingly integral to individuals' identities and healthcare decisions, companies must prioritize proactive cybersecurity measures and transparent communication.

More Tech News

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AI Payoff: JPMorgan claims to be seeing revenue from AI tools already; expects greater benefits from future advancements (more)

Remote Write Off: Hybrid working may erode $800 billion in commercial property value by the end of 2030, according to a recent report (more)

Decades Work: Nvidia CEO estimates it will take 20 years for the US to achieve chip building independence (more)

Startup Funding

Letterhead helps companies streamline the newsletter creation process by using AI to automate tasks. Raised $5m (more)

Together is building an open source GenAI to help companies incorporate AI into existing solutions. Raised $102m (more)

Runna is a running app that offers personalised conditioning plans. Raised $6m (more)

Fantuan is a food delivery startup that focuses on authentic Chinese meals. Raised $40m (more)

Vendelux uses AI to tell marketers which important people will be at events, and if they should attend. Raised $14m (more)

Paysend aims to reduce the cost of cross border payments for small and medium businesses. Raised $65m (more)

Hololight is an extended reality platform that helps companies build immersive solutions. Raised $12m (more)

Chart of the Day

Industries most and least exposed to AI

Distractions

Top 100 photos of 2023

Vegan vs normal diet — a short comparison

Villains falling to their death

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