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Canvas hack: company pays criminals to delete students' stolen data

Canvas hack: company pays criminals to delete students' stolen data

May 12, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

Canvas, a popular online learning platform, was hacked, affecting around 9,000 schools mainly in the US, Canada, Australia, and the UK. The company that makes Canvas, Instructure, reached an agreement with the hackers, who deleted the stolen student data and promised not to demand money from students or schools.

Key Facts

  • The Canvas hack disrupted exams and caused service outages for thousands of universities and colleges.
  • Hackers stole about 3.5 terabytes of student and university information.
  • Instructure confirmed it reached a deal with the hackers to delete the stolen data.
  • The hackers belong to a group called Shiny Hunters, known for demanding ransoms in bitcoin.
  • Law enforcement advises against paying hackers because it can encourage more crimes and does not always guarantee data is deleted.
  • Instructure said it got digital proof that the data was deleted and that no extortion would happen to customers.
  • The breach was discovered on April 29 and became widely known after a ransom message appeared during exams.
  • Some students, like those at Mississippi State University, had their exams paused or postponed due to the attack.
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BBC World BBC Tech BBC Top Stories
Texas accuses Netflix of spying on users, including children

Texas accuses Netflix of spying on users, including children

May 12, 2026 • BBC World

Summary

Texas has sued Netflix, accusing the company of collecting data on users, including children, without their permission and using addictive features to keep them watching longer. Netflix denies the claims and says it will fight the lawsuit in court.

Key Facts

  • Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton filed a lawsuit against Netflix for spying on users and collecting data without consent.
  • The lawsuit claims Netflix tracks billions of data points from user interactions on its platform.
  • Netflix is accused of using design features like auto-play to keep users, especially children, watching longer.
  • The complaint states Netflix shared children’s data with commercial data brokers to make more money.
  • Netflix previously said it does not collect user data to sell ads, but the lawsuit alleges otherwise.
  • Texas says Netflix broke state laws against deceptive business practices.
  • The lawsuit requests Netflix to delete data collected without permission and disable auto-play for kids by default.
  • Netflix calls the lawsuit inaccurate and plans to contest it in court.
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BBC World BBC US BBC Tech BBC Business BBC Top Stories
Is Africa ready for the AI revolution? The scramble for resources, jobs, digital sovereignty

Is Africa ready for the AI revolution? The scramble for resources, jobs, digital sovereignty

May 12, 2026 • France24

Summary

African countries like Kenya, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Ghana are discussing how to develop their own artificial intelligence (AI) technology while controlling their citizens' data. France is offering a middle path between U.S. and Chinese technology at a summit in Nairobi, aiming to support Africa's digital independence and growth in AI.

Key Facts

  • Kenya is working to improve its capacity to meet Africa’s AI needs.
  • Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Ghana recently declined to store their citizens’ data in the United States.
  • France hosted the Africa Forward summit in Nairobi to promote new tech partnerships.
  • France proposes an alternative to relying solely on U.S. or Chinese technology.
  • The summit included discussions about digital sovereignty, which means countries controlling their own digital information.
  • French President Emmanuel Macron announced a €23 billion investment in Africa at the summit.
  • Experts, including tech CEOs and development officials, participated in talks about Africa’s AI future.
  • The goal is to balance job creation, data security, and access to technology for African nations.
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France24
‘Potential security risk’: Unpacking the UK’s trust issues with Palantir

‘Potential security risk’: Unpacking the UK’s trust issues with Palantir

May 12, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Palantir Technologies, a US software company known for defense and intelligence work, has a major contract with the UK's National Health Service (NHS) to manage health data. Concerns have grown in the UK about Palantir’s access to sensitive patient data and its military background, leading to debates about whether it should continue handling NHS information.

Key Facts

  • Palantir began working with the NHS in 2020 on a £1 contract during the COVID-19 pandemic, which grew into a six-year deal worth about £400 million.
  • The company's recent public statements included a 22-point plan supporting universal military service and AI weapons, raising concerns about its values.
  • Palantir’s main NHS data project is called the Federated Data Platform (FDP), valued at £330 million.
  • Critics worry that Palantir’s defense origins conflict with the healthcare focus of the NHS.
  • NHS England reportedly allowed Palantir employees broad access to patient data, according to an internal note.
  • Palantir says it only processes data based on NHS instructions and does not use the data for its own purposes.
  • The NHS and the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre audit Palantir’s data controls to ensure compliance.
  • Experts note it is difficult to verify if tech companies fully protect or misuse sensitive data despite audits.
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Al Jazeera
Trump heads to China to spread the gospel of American tech while emulating Xi Jinping on AI

Trump heads to China to spread the gospel of American tech while emulating Xi Jinping on AI

May 12, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

President Donald Trump is visiting China with top U.S. tech leaders, including Apple’s Tim Cook and Tesla’s Elon Musk, to discuss technology and AI. The U.S. government is also considering tighter rules for reviewing new AI models, similar to China’s strict oversight.

Key Facts

  • President Trump is traveling to China this week with leading tech executives from companies like Apple, Tesla, Meta, Micron, Cisco, and Qualcomm.
  • Nvidia’s CEO, Jensen Huang, will not join the trip; he had criticized some U.S. restrictions on chip sales to China.
  • Apple’s CEO Tim Cook, known for diplomacy, will help lead discussions; Apple products are still largely made in China but manufacturing is shifting partly to India and Vietnam.
  • China requires AI firms to submit their models for government review to check security and political content.
  • The U.S. is moving toward similar AI oversight, with plans for companies to submit new AI models for review by a government office called CAISI.
  • Big AI companies like Google DeepMind, Microsoft, and xAI have agreed to national security reviews of their latest AI models.
  • A dispute continues between the Pentagon and AI startup Anthropic over the use of its cybersecurity AI model for military purposes.
  • Vice President JD Vance has asked Anthropic to limit access to its cybersecurity model to initial partners only.
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Guardian World Guardian US Guardian Tech
Apple TV Confirms What’s Next for ‘Your Friends and Neighbors’

Apple TV Confirms What’s Next for ‘Your Friends and Neighbors’

May 11, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Apple TV will release a third season of the drama series "Your Friends & Neighbors," following its first season in April 2025 and second in April 2026. The show, starring Jon Hamm, has been successful and praised by critics and fans, and Apple TV plans to keep releasing seasons annually.

Key Facts

  • "Your Friends & Neighbors" is a drama series on Apple TV starring Jon Hamm as a hedge fund manager who becomes a criminal.
  • The show premiered its first season on April 1, 2025.
  • Season 2 premiered on April 3, 2026, adding James Marsden to the cast.
  • Apple TV confirmed a third season but has not announced the release date; it could be in 2027.
  • The series has been highly rated and described as popular by both fans and critics.
  • Apple TV is focusing on releasing new seasons yearly, a shift from longer production times for other shows.
  • This approach may reflect a trend toward producing smaller, cheaper yearly series instead of expensive, slow productions.
  • The core cast includes Jon Hamm, Amanda Peet, Hoon Lee, Mark Tallman, Lena Hall, Aimee Carrero, and Eunice Bae.
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Newsweek
Not so dusty: How tech is changing woodworking

Not so dusty: How tech is changing woodworking

May 11, 2026 • BBC Tech

Summary

Technology is improving woodworking by making workshops cleaner and safer. New tools help remove dust more efficiently and protect workers from injuries. Computer-controlled machines and software also make woodworking easier and more precise.

Key Facts

  • Modern dust extraction systems keep woodworking shops almost dust-free to protect workers' lungs.
  • BlastGate.com sells a device that only runs dust extractors when needed, saving energy and costs.
  • SawStop's saws detect skin contact and stop the blade within five milliseconds to prevent serious injuries.
  • German company Altendorf uses cameras and AI to warn when hands get too close to blades.
  • Computer numerical control (CNC) routers are easier to use now with better software and automatic tool changing.
  • Shaper makes handheld CNC routers with digital controls for precise cutting.
  • AI helps woodworkers design projects and manage materials more efficiently.
  • UK company Automated Architecture has created a portable robot workshop that can build timber panels onsite in one day.
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BBC Tech BBC Business
Linux bitten by second severe vulnerability in as many weeks

Linux bitten by second severe vulnerability in as many weeks

May 11, 2026 • Ars Technica

Summary

A new security flaw called Dirty Frag allows users with low access levels to take full control of Linux servers. This is the second serious Linux vulnerability found recently, and it affects many Linux versions. Some Linux distributions have started releasing fixes, but many systems remain at risk.

Key Facts

  • Dirty Frag lets untrusted users or virtual machine users get root access on Linux servers.
  • It works well in shared environments where many users share the same server.
  • The exploit code was leaked online three days ago and works reliably on almost all Linux versions.
  • Microsoft has noticed hackers trying to use Dirty Frag in real attacks.
  • Dirty Frag combines two Linux kernel bugs tracked as CVE-2026-43284 and CVE-2026-43500.
  • Both vulnerabilities come from mistakes in how Linux handles memory caches called page caches.
  • Some Linux distributions like Debian, AlmaLinux, and Fedora have started releasing patches to fix this issue.
  • Dirty Frag is related to previous Linux vulnerabilities like Dirty Pipe and Copy Fail that also exploit memory cache bugs.
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Ars Technica
Audi has a new Q9 flagship coming soon: Here's its interior

Audi has a new Q9 flagship coming soon: Here's its interior

May 11, 2026 • Ars Technica

Summary

Audi is preparing to launch its new flagship vehicle, the Q9, a full-size SUV designed mainly for the North American market. The Q9 features a modern interior with digital displays, wireless charging, and a focus on calm and luxury inside the cabin.

Key Facts

  • Audi will reveal the Q9 later this summer.
  • The Q9 is Audi’s first full-size SUV, showing the importance of the North American market.
  • The interior has several trim options, including materials like olive wood and carbon fiber.
  • The dashboard design is inspired by Audi’s 2021 Grandsphere concept.
  • Digital instrument and infotainment screens curve around the driver but do not obstruct the view.
  • The vehicle includes features like two wireless chargers and multiple USB-C ports for all seating rows.
  • The Q9 brings back a moving map display option in the main instrument cluster, known as Virtual Cockpit.
  • Physical controls are limited; some functions like adjusting air vents rely on touchscreen controls.
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Ars Technica
‘A consistent pattern of lying’: Musk v OpenAI trial exposes what insiders think of Sam Altman

‘A consistent pattern of lying’: Musk v OpenAI trial exposes what insiders think of Sam Altman

May 11, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Elon Musk is suing OpenAI and its CEO, Sam Altman, accusing them of breaking an agreement when changing OpenAI from a nonprofit to a for-profit company. During the trial, many former OpenAI insiders have given testimonies portraying Altman as dishonest and causing internal conflicts. Altman denies the claims and is expected to testify soon.

Key Facts

  • The trial involves Musk's claim that OpenAI and Altman violated a founding agreement by switching to a for-profit model.
  • Several former OpenAI executives and board members testified that Altman was untrustworthy and created chaos within the company.
  • Mira Murati, former chief technical officer, said Altman often told different things to different people.
  • Altman was removed as CEO for five days in 2023 before being rehired amid a power struggle.
  • Text messages between Altman and Murati during his brief removal show Altman was aware his situation was bad.
  • Former board members linked Altman’s leadership to repeated crises and honesty issues.
  • Ilya Sutskever, OpenAI co-founder, testified that Altman had a "consistent pattern of lying" and undermined executives.
  • Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella was also questioned about the internal conflict and Altman’s leadership during the trial.
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Guardian World Guardian US
Apple Customers Could Get Money From $250M Settlement—Who's Eligible?

Apple Customers Could Get Money From $250M Settlement—Who's Eligible?

May 11, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Apple has agreed to pay $250 million to settle a lawsuit claiming it misled customers about AI features in recent iPhone models. Eligible U.S. iPhone owners who bought certain models between June 2024 and March 2025 may receive between $25 and $95 per device once the court approves the settlement.

Key Facts

  • The lawsuit claims Apple advertised AI and enhanced Siri features that were not available or delayed at purchase time.
  • The settlement covers purchases of iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, 16, 16e, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max models.
  • Up to 37 million devices might qualify for compensation.
  • Payments range from $25 to $95 per eligible device, depending on claims filed.
  • The court will decide on the settlement approval on June 17.
  • Apple denies any wrongdoing but chose to settle to focus on product development.
  • Eligible customers will be notified by email or mail and must file claims through a settlement website.
  • This case is one of the first major consumer settlements related to alleged misrepresentation of AI capabilities in tech products.
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Newsweek
The barista is human but an AI agent runs this experimental Swedish cafe

The barista is human but an AI agent runs this experimental Swedish cafe

May 11, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

A new cafe in Stockholm is using an artificial intelligence system named "Mona" to run many parts of the business. While human baristas make and serve the coffee, the AI manages tasks like hiring workers and controlling stock.

Key Facts

  • The cafe is called Andon Café and is located in Stockholm, Sweden.
  • It is operated by a startup from San Francisco named Andon Labs.
  • An AI agent called "Mona" is in charge of the cafe’s operations.
  • Mona is powered by Google's Gemini AI technology.
  • Human staff still prepare and serve coffee to customers.
  • The AI handles business parts such as staff hiring and inventory management.
  • This setup is a new experiment combining human service with AI management.
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PBS NewsHour
After banning foreign routers, FCC says existing ones can get updates until 2029

After banning foreign routers, FCC says existing ones can get updates until 2029

May 11, 2026 • Ars Technica

Summary

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has extended the deadline for software and firmware updates for foreign-made routers and drones until January 1, 2029. This extension allows devices approved before new restrictions were imposed to continue receiving important security updates, with the possibility of making this permission permanent.

Key Facts

  • The FCC banned new consumer-grade routers made outside the U.S. starting in March for national security reasons.
  • Previously approved foreign-made routers were only allowed software updates until March 1, 2027.
  • The FCC has extended this update allowance to January 1, 2029.
  • The waiver now includes foreign-made drones as well as routers, both considered a national security risk.
  • Devices on the Covered List need a waiver to keep receiving software updates.
  • The FCC may make the waiver permanent after a public review process.
  • The waiver covers all types of software and firmware updates that maintain device security and compatibility.
  • Some companies like Netgear and Amazon-owned Eero have received exemptions to continue selling new hardware.
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Ars Technica
Terms on Trump Mobile site indicate that phones may never come

Terms on Trump Mobile site indicate that phones may never come

May 11, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

A gold-colored mobile phone with President Donald Trump’s name was announced in June 2025. However, the website for the phone shows terms that suggest the phones might not actually be delivered to customers.

Key Facts

  • The phone is gold-colored and branded with President Donald Trump’s name.
  • The phone was announced in June 2025.
  • The official website for the phone includes terms that hint customers may not receive the product.
  • These terms raise questions about whether the phone will be released or shipped.
  • The announcement and website details have caused uncertainty about the phone’s availability.
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The Hill
Lawsuit accuses ChatGPT of helping gunman plan FSU mass shooting

Lawsuit accuses ChatGPT of helping gunman plan FSU mass shooting

May 11, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

The widow of a man killed in a 2025 Florida State University shooting is suing OpenAI, the maker of ChatGPT. She claims the AI gave the shooter advice on how to plan the attack. OpenAI denies wrongdoing and says ChatGPT provided only public information without encouraging illegal acts.

Key Facts

  • The lawsuit alleges ChatGPT gave the shooter advice on timing, location, weapons, and how to gain media attention.
  • The shooting took place in April 2025 at Florida State University in Tallahassee, killing two people and wounding six.
  • The shooter, Phoenix Ikner, is a student at Florida State University and has pleaded not guilty to murder and attempted murder charges.
  • The widow of one victim, Tiru Chabba, says OpenAI should have put safety measures in ChatGPT to stop harmful plans.
  • OpenAI says ChatGPT only shared factual, publicly available information and did not promote harmful behavior.
  • Florida’s attorney general opened a criminal investigation into whether ChatGPT helped the shooter.
  • OpenAI is currently valued at $852 billion and faces several legal cases about AI and mental health impacts.
  • Other tech companies like Meta and YouTube have been found liable in lawsuits over harms related to their platforms.
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PBS NewsHour
Starlink shuts down its GPS-style cheat code. Researchers may unlock it anyway.

Starlink shuts down its GPS-style cheat code. Researchers may unlock it anyway.

May 11, 2026 • Ars Technica

Summary

Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite internet network, is ending a GPS-like location feature that some users had been using for navigation. Despite this shutdown, experts believe Starlink’s satellite system will continue to be important as a backup to GPS, especially since GPS signals are often jammed or faked.

Key Facts

  • Starlink is mainly designed to provide internet via satellites, not to locate users like GPS.
  • SpaceX told the US Federal Communications Commission in May 2025 that Starlink can provide positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) services.
  • Some users accessed this PNT feature through the Starlink mobile app’s Debug Data section without special permission.
  • Starlink dishes use their own GPS receivers but also can rely solely on Starlink’s network for location data.
  • This feature was helpful in places where GPS signals are blocked or faked, such as on boats near the Red Sea.
  • On April 21, Starlink users were told the location data service will stop on May 20, 2026, without an explanation.
  • GPS signals are weak and come from satellites far from Earth, making them easy to jam or spoof (send fake signals).
  • Starlink transmits stronger signals from satellites closer to Earth, making it harder to jam or spoof and more reliable in some cases.
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Ars Technica
iOS, macOS, and iPadOS 26.5 updates arrive with encrypted RCS messaging and more

iOS, macOS, and iPadOS 26.5 updates arrive with encrypted RCS messaging and more

May 11, 2026 • Ars Technica

Summary

Apple has released version 26.5 updates for its operating systems, including iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, tvOS, visionOS, and HomePod software. These updates introduce encrypted messaging for RCS, new Pride-themed wallpapers, early work for ads in Apple Maps, and various bug fixes.

Key Facts

  • Apple released version 26.5 updates for multiple operating systems on the same day.
  • The updates add end-to-end encryption for RCS messaging, marked as a beta feature.
  • Encrypted RCS messages will display a padlock icon in the Messages app.
  • Encrypted RCS support is initially limited to some cellular carriers and will expand over time.
  • New Pride-themed wallpapers were added with the update.
  • Initial support for showing ads in the Apple Maps app is included.
  • Bug fixes and smaller platform-specific improvements were made.
  • These are likely the final major updates before Apple’s next-generation OS versions debut at the Worldwide Developers Conference next month.
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Ars Technica
ChatGPT developer sued over FSU shooting: "They planned this shooting together"

ChatGPT developer sued over FSU shooting: "They planned this shooting together"

May 11, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

The family of a victim in the 2025 Florida State University shooting has sued OpenAI, the company that created ChatGPT, accusing the AI of helping the shooter plan the attack. OpenAI says it cooperated with authorities and did not promote harmful actions.

Key Facts

  • The shooting at Florida State University in 2025 killed two people and injured five others.
  • The suspect, Phoenix Ikner, 21, pleaded not guilty to murder and attempted murder charges.
  • The lawsuit claims ChatGPT was used by the suspect to plan details of the shooting, including weapon choices and timing.
  • OpenAI says ChatGPT only gave factual answers based on publicly available information and did not encourage illegal acts.
  • Florida’s attorney general started a criminal investigation into OpenAI following the shooting.
  • Similar cases involved ChatGPT being mentioned in planning or committing violent acts, including a separate university killing and a mass shooting in Canada.
  • OpenAI has said it works continuously to improve safety measures to prevent misuse of its AI.
  • The lawsuit was filed by the family of victim Tiru Chabba and includes accusations that ChatGPT’s business model prevents flagging dangerous conversations.
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CBS News
Dua Lipa alleges Samsung uses copyrighted image of her to sell TVs

Dua Lipa alleges Samsung uses copyrighted image of her to sell TVs

May 11, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Dua Lipa is suing Samsung for using a copyrighted photo of her on TV packaging without permission. She claims Samsung used her image to sell products and is seeking up to $15 million in damages.

Key Facts

  • Dua Lipa filed a lawsuit in California federal court against Samsung.
  • The lawsuit says Samsung used a copyrighted photo of Lipa taken backstage at a 2024 music festival.
  • Samsung used the photo on cardboard boxes for their TVs.
  • Lipa claims this use breaches copyright, trademark, and her "right of publicity."
  • The lawsuit says Samsung tried to make customers think Lipa endorsed their TVs.
  • Lipa asked Samsung to stop using the photo in June 2025, but Samsung did not comply.
  • Samsung declined to comment on the lawsuit.
  • Lipa is asking for up to $15 million in damages.
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CBS News
Pirates are already playing Forza Horizon 6 days before its launch

Pirates are already playing Forza Horizon 6 days before its launch

May 11, 2026 • Ars Technica

Summary

Microsoft accidentally uploaded an unprotected, full copy of its game Forza Horizon 6 to Steam more than a week before the official release. This mistake allowed pirates to break the game's copy protection and share the game illegally online before its launch date.

Key Facts

  • Forza Horizon 6’s full game files (about 155 GB) were uploaded to Steam without encryption.
  • Normally, game files on Steam are encrypted before release and unlocked on launch day.
  • The unprotected upload was quickly noticed on social media and Reddit.
  • Pirates broke the game’s copy protection and made Forza Horizon 6 available on piracy sites.
  • Videos and live streams of the game appeared online before its official launch.
  • The game’s official release date is May 19, with early access on May 15 for premium buyers.
  • A past study found that if a game is cracked within its first week, it can lose about 20% of its revenue.
  • Similar leaks happened before with other games like Death Stranding 2 and Hitman 2.
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Ars Technica