NewzIntel.com

Category: Europe

  • MIL-OSI Russia: New Year’s working hours of Polytechnic University dormitories

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    During their studies at the university, the dormitory becomes a second home for many students. Many stay here for holidays and vacations, so it is so important to create a joyful New Year mood for the kids. In all the dormitory buildings, they decorate Christmas trees, halls, buildings and courtyards.

    The administration has prepared a gift for the residents. On New Year’s Eve, admission to all SPbPU dormitories will be free for university students. This will allow the guys to celebrate 2025 in the company of friends!

    Let all the doors of our dormitories be open on New Year’s Eve to meet your classmates and fellow students. New Year is a bright holiday that you want to celebrate with your loved ones and friends. Let your New Year’s Eve be cheerful, bright and memorable, – said the director of the Student City Vyacheslav Olshevsky.

    Well, what New Year would be complete without tangerines! “Tangerine Boom” is a real fun event where kids are treated to tangerines and congratulated on the holiday. It is organized by the administration of the Student City, the Directorate of Cultural Programs and Youth Creativity, PROF and the United Student Council of Dormitories.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko will fulfill the dreams of three children as part of the New Year’s campaign “Yolka Zhelaniy”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko took part in the All-Russian campaign “Yolka zhelaniy”

    Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko took part in the all-Russian campaign “Yolka Zhelaniy”, organized by the “Movement of the First” with the support of “Rosmolodezh.Dobro”.

    The Deputy Prime Minister pulled out three childhood dreams at once.

    7-year-old Alexander from Azov, Rostov region, dreams of meeting gymnast Nikita Nagorny.

    “An excellent wish. We all know Nikita, we love him. He is an Olympic champion in artistic gymnastics, and also the president of the All-Russian Federation of Phygital Sports. And he will tell about the first Games of the Future in the history of mankind, which, on the instructions of President Vladimir Putin, were held this year in Kazan,” said Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    10-year-old Dmitry from Yaroslavl asked to meet with HC Lokomotiv.

    “In the Rostov region, there are, I believe, more than 70 hockey palaces, and about 7.5 thousand children play hockey. We will definitely help organize your meeting,” the Deputy Prime Minister noted.

    12-year-old Mikhail from Volgograd wants a basketball as a gift.

    “I know a great company, ours, Russian, which makes international-class balls, certified by the international federation. And these are the most environmentally friendly balls in the world. We will definitely make you a gift. I want to congratulate everyone on the upcoming New Year and Christmas. I wish that your dreams come true and that only good things happen to you, your family and friends,” the Deputy Prime Minister added.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Major General Patrick Gauchat appointed acting head of United Nations peace support mission UNDOF in the Golan Heights

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport

    At its meeting on 20 December, the Federal Council approved the temporary appointment of Major General Patrick Gauchat as head of the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in the Golan Heights. He will carry out this task ad interim and in addition to his role as head of the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: President Meloni greets Italian contingent in Lithuania and contingents connected via video link

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    22 Dicembre 2024

    The President of the Council of Ministers, Giorgia Meloni, delivered a festive message to the Italian military contingent serving at the airbase in Šiauliai, Lithuania, today, as well as to all the Italian contingents present in operational theatres around the world, who joined via video link.

    [Introduction by Commander Massarotto and President Meloni’s greetings message]

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Serious Fraud Office launches 2025 Trainee Investigator Programme

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has opened applications for its 2025 Trainee Investigators Programme.

    Launched in 2018, the programme has run successfully for over six years, equipping trainees with the core skills necessary for a career investigating major crime.

    Trainees receive hands-on investigation training and gain valuable, first-hand experience working alongside the SFO’s operational teams to tackle the largest and most complex economic crime cases in the UK. Successful applicants will work with and be offered guidance from some of the country’s most experienced investigators and lawyers.

    The programme is open to anyone with an interest in the law, with applications accepted from 20 December 2024 to 12 January 2025. Since its creation, the scheme has welcomed over 100 trainees from all walks of life, including university graduates, career changers and individuals with a long-held interest in the law and criminal justice.

    Serious Fraud Office Chief Investigator Mick Gallagher said: “Our Trainee Investigator Programme offers applicants the chance to work on the largest and most high-profile economic crime cases here in the UK.

    “It allows people from all walks of life the opportunity to immerse themselves in fraud investigation training, equipping them with the core operational skills needed as they’re guided through the stages of an investigation.

    “The feedback we receive from those who have completed the Programme in previous years has been overwhelmingly positive and we’re very proud of our training investigators.”

    Applicants will be notified this Spring if they have been successful applying to the Programme. Graduates who successfully complete the 15-month Programme will be promoted to the role of Investigator.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 December 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Eight-year ban for former footballer who ran London sports academy

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Kieron Minto-St.Aimie received a director’s disqualification for claiming a £25,000 Covid loan his company was not entitled to.

    • Kieron Minto-St.Aimie is a former professional footballer who went on to run a sports academy in Brent. 
    • His company received the £25,000 Covid Bounce Back Loan after he overstated its turnover. 
    • He was disqualified as a company director for eight years at London’s Royal Courts of Justice.  

    A former professional footballer has been banned from being a company director for eight years.  

    Kieron Minto-St.Aimie claimed a £25,000 Covid Bounce Back Loan for the St Aimie’s Sports Academy Community Interest Company in Brent, when it was entitled to much less. 

    Elizabeth Pigney, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said: “Kieron Minto-St.Aimie successfully applied for a Covid Bounce Back loan by overstating his company’s turnover. 

    His eight-year disqualification should serve as a warning to others that the justice system will not allow business owners to make false declarations to obtain funds that were so crucially needed by other small and medium-sized businesses during the pandemic.

    The former footballer, aged 35, of Pound Lane in London, began his career at Queens Park Rangers before spells at clubs including Oxford United and Barnet. 

    He opened St.Aimie’s Sports Academy, on Harlesden Road in Brent, as its sole director in 2016.  

    Before its closure in January 2023, the academy was known in the local community for providing football coaching and mentoring to children and young people.  

    In May 2020, Minto-St.Aimie applied for a Covid Bounce Back loan of £25,000.  

    However, in order to obtain the £25,000 he overstated the company’s turnover by £60,000 as it should have only been entitled to around £10,000 under the scheme based on its actual turnover.  

    On 6 December 2024, the judge at London’s Royal Courts of Justice disqualified Minto-St.Aimie as a company director for eight years.

    Further information 

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 December 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Should young voters be able to use TfL travelcards for voter ID?

    Source: Mayor of London

    In its wide-ranging review of the 2024 Mayor of London and London Assembly Elections, the London Assembly Elections Review Working Group wants Transport for London (TfL) to provide the Greater London Authority (GLA) with details of how many people hold each of its photo ID cards. As government reviews the list of eligible photo ID, the Working Group has also asked how secure TfL considers the application processes for these cards to be, and the GLA should use this information to advocate for Londoners.

    The Working Group found that while photo ID requirements introduced before the elections did not create a “London-wide problem”:

    • 5,621 voters were recorded by polling station staff in London as being initially turned away due to lack of photo ID. Of these, 4,103 returned to vote and 1,518 did not.
    • Some Londoners believe that the list of acceptable ID is exclusionary for certain demographics, which has the potential to cause damage to people’s engagement in democracy.

    The Group welcomed the Government’s review of the list of eligible photo ID and recommends that this should include consideration of groups particularly impacted – including young people, ethnic minority groups and disabled people – and how this policy will interact with government manifesto commitments, such as lowering the voting age to 16.

    In its report, the Group also noted that the Government’s Devolution White Paper did not give any detail on plans for the future of the Mayoral voting system. The report urges the government to provide clarity on its position before May 2025 to help election planning for 2028, and to ensure that any changes are lasting and take into account the views of Londoners.

    The GLA elections in May 2024 were the first to take place in London since the Elections Act 2022 brought in several changes, including the requirement for voters to bring photo ID to polling stations, the move to a manual count, and introduction of a first past the post system in the Mayoral vote.

    Further recommendations include:

    • The GLA and Metropolitan Police should conduct a review of abuse and intimidation of candidates at the GLA Elections, setting out how these issues were dealt with and what further lessons it can learn from national and local government.
    • The Government should remove the ‘mixing requirement’ for a manual count in GLA Elections legislation to allow for more granular data to be published. 

    Chair of the Elections Review Working Group, Len Duvall OBE AM, said:

    “The GLA elections are of a different magnitude to all other regional elections in the UK in their size and complexity: nearly 7.5 million ballots were counted in the May 2024 elections, with two different voting systems for administrators to manage across all 32 London Boroughs.

    “Considering the extent of the changes made before these elections, it is a huge achievement that they were run as smoothly and as effectively for Londoners as we have found.

    “There remain some issues that must be addressed before the next elections are held. The Working Group is concerned by the evidence that Voter ID requirements are having a disproportionate impact on certain groups, and we urge the government to address this in its upcoming review of acceptable forms of ID.

    “Londoners also need clarity on the voting system to be used for the next Mayoral elections. The government should swiftly set out its intentions and – crucially – ensure that the public’s views on the proposals are taken into account.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: BLOG: How we’re tackling rogue landlords

    Source: City of Liverpool

    One year ago, Liverpool City Council launched a Private Sector Housing Intelligence and Enforcement Task Force, and the results have made a real difference in our city. Tom Mullan from the team reflects on the last year...

    This anniversary gives us a chance to celebrate the team’s achievements in disrupting rogue landlords, improving housing conditions and creating safer communities. Through multi-agency collaboration, intelligence sharing and enforcement, the Task Force has delivered significant outcomes that benefit our city and its residents.

    The Task Force, established with funding from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government’s (MHCLG) Pathfinders Programme, was tasked with establishing new and innovative ways to combat landlords who:

    • Ignore their legal obligation to license properties
    • Fail to meet safety standards for tenants
    • Use properties for illegal activities, like drug-related crime or human trafficking

    Cllr Sam East, Cabinet Member for Housing, emphasised the importance of the initiative: “This Task Force was established to proactively target and disrupt rogue and criminal landlords and managing agents operating in the private sector in Liverpool and the threats they pose to our city’s vulnerable residents, safe neighbourhoods and community cohesion. The team’s collaborative, intelligence-led, multi-agency approach is a real success.”

    Some of our achievements so far…

    Improved housing safety
    Over 129 serious hazards were identified in private rental properties, with 139 enforcement notices issued, including 21 Housing Act Improvement Notices and a further 8 Emergency Prohibition Orders.

    Disrupting criminal activity
    Joint operations with Merseyside Police and the Home Office resulting in the seizure of £13 million (street value) of cannabis and the emergency closure of eight properties.

    Creating trusting relationships
    Established service level data sharing agreements with the other local authorities in the Liverpool City Region and our external partners to foster joint working in tackling rogue and criminal landlords.

    Safeguarding vulnerable residents
    Investigated over 20 properties linked to human trafficking and sexual exploitation, working with our third sector partner, Changing Lives, to provide support for victims.

    Investigating Trading Standards
    Proactively investigated and enforced trading standards compliance on over 40 managing and letting agents operating in Liverpool.

    Making an impact across the country
    Submitted 586 intelligence reports to a national database, helping disrupt criminal operations locally and nationwide, and partnered with Shelter to develop e-learning modules for agents on tenant rights, deposit security and consumer protections.

    Cllr Laura Robertson-Collins, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, Communities & Streetscene, said: “The targeted work across the city has had a real impact, improving housing conditions and creating safer neighbourhoods for our residents. Their proactive partnership working with Merseyside Police, housing providers and local voluntary organisations is helping to restore pride in our communities and make a real difference in people’s lives.”

    Making a difference in our communities

    Beyond the numbers, the Task Force’s work is creating safer, more stable communities:

    In Norris Green, operations reduced drug-related crime and anti-social behaviour by targeting rogue landlords and unsafe properties.

    Cllr Kevin Pilnick reflects on the work in his ward: “The team’s targeted operations in the Norris Green area have made a real difference.  Their work with the Council’s community co-ordinators and neighbourhood managers, alongside other stakeholder agencies, is helping to reduce anti-social behaviour and drug-related crime.”

    Working together to make an impact

    This progress is the result of teamwork across the council and partnerships with external agencies. Here’s what some of our partners had to say:

    Sarah Clarke, from Changing Lives, said: “The collaborative working that we undertake with the Task Force in Liverpool provides us with critical opportunities to offer safeguarding to victims of adult sexual exploitation and human trafficking who face significant harm from organised crime groups.  We cannot safeguard in silo and the joint working has evidenced this.”

    Peter Yoh, Head of Liverpool City Region Housing at Riverside: “The partnership working and intelligence sharing is proving vital to the success in making a real difference to customers of the private rented sector living within our communities.  Our collaborative approach with the Council’s Task Force is resulting in enforcement action being taken against irresponsible landlords, which is stabilising communities and sustaining tenancies.”

    Merseyside Police said: “Merseyside Police works in close partnership with the Task Force and other partner agencies from the voluntary and community sector, establishing a multi-agency approach to engaging the local community and gathering intelligence for detecting and disrupting sexual exploitation and supporting victims.”

    Looking Ahead

    With three months left in its current phase, the Task Force is already embedding its strategies into Liverpool City Council’s long-term private sector housing operations. The aim is to make our proactive, intelligence-led approach a standard for how we handle housing enforcement.

    If you have any concerns about rogue and criminal landlords, please contact privatesectorhousing.intel@liverpool.gov.uk or use our freephone number 0800 707 6245.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council staff seize fake goods from St Johns

    Source: City of Liverpool

    High-end clothing deals have turned out to be too good to be true at St John’s Precinct, as bags of counterfeit products are seized by Liverpool City Council. 

    The Council’s Trading Standards team, working in partnership with Merseyside Police, has removed hundreds of fake goods after receiving a report from a member of the public.  

    An inspection of five stores in St Johns resulted in 280 counterfeit items of clothing being seized, including fake versions of White Fox, Prada and Diesel. Although the items were being sold at bargain prices, the haul would be worth approximately £25,000 if they were real. 

    In a previous operation earlier this year, the team seized over 1,500 fake products, believed to be worth roughly £15,000 in total. Items included a haul of fake Apple, Samsung and Sony items, which could have posed a serious safety risk to potential buyers. 

    As well as counterfeit goods, the Council has recently cracked down on the selling of illegal vapes. Since January 2024, over 18,000 vapes have been seized, estimated to be worth around £220,000. The vapes were found to have exceeded the legal limit of nicotine and could be harmful to people using them. 

    To help remove any health and safety risk to the public, all reported counterfeit or illegal goods are investigated and seized. Where possible, any branding will be taken off the items before they are recycled or donated. In cases where items are unsafe, they will be destroyed.

    Cllr Laura Robertson-Collins, Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, Neighbourhoods and Streetscene said: “Everyone loves a good bargain, especially in the lead up to Christmas, but we want everyone to be vigilant about counterfeit goods. 

    “Thanks to keen-eyed shoppers, we were alerted to a number of shops selling fake items to the public. Our Trading Standards team, along with Merseyside Police, acted quickly to inspect these items and take them off the shelves for good. 

    “While they might look like the real thing, counterfeit clothing is usually made from poor quality materials and may be easily flammable or otherwise unsafe. It might seem like a good deal now, but it could cost you dearly in the long run.” 

    Anyone concerned about fake goods can report them on the Council website or by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.  

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Import of poultry meat and products from areas in US and UK suspended

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Import of poultry meat and products from areas in US and UK suspended
    Import of poultry meat and products from areas in US and UK suspended
    *********************************************************************

         The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (December 23) that in view of notifications from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) about outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in areas in the United States (US) and the United Kingdom (UK), the CFS has instructed the trade to suspend the import of poultry meat and products (including poultry eggs) from the relevant areas with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.     The relevant areas are as follows:UK—-Norfolk County(1) King’s Lynn & West Norfolk DistrictUS—-State of California(2) Marin County(3) San Joaquin CountyState of South Dakota(4) Beadle County(5) Charles Mix County(6) Faulk County(7) Hutchinson County(8) McPherson County(9) Moody County(10) Spink CountyState of Iowa(11) Sioux County(12) Palo Alto CountyState of North Dakota(13) Bottineau County(14) McHenry County(15) Ransom CountyState of Tennessee(16) Gibson CountyState of Utah(17) Piute County(18) Sanpete County     A CFS spokesman said that according to the Census and Statistics Department, Hong Kong imported about 63 470 tonnes of chilled and frozen poultry meat, and about 17.2 million poultry eggs from the US, and about 900 tonnes of chilled and frozen poultry meat and about 990 000 poultry eggs from the UK in the first nine months of this year.     “The CFS has contacted the American and British authorities over the issues and will closely monitor information issued by the WOAH and the relevant authorities on the avian influenza outbreaks. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation,” the spokesman said.

     
    Ends/Monday, December 23, 2024Issued at HKT 17:47

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Cloud Atlas seen using a new tool in its attacks

    Source: Securelist – Kaspersky

    Headline: Cloud Atlas seen using a new tool in its attacks

    Introduction

    Known since 2014, Cloud Atlas targets Eastern Europe and Central Asia. We’re shedding light on a previously undocumented toolset, which the group used heavily in 2024. Victims get infected via phishing emails containing a malicious document that exploits a vulnerability in the formula editor (CVE-2018-0802) to download and execute malware code. See below for the infection pattern.

    Typical Cloud Atlas infection pattern

    When opened, the document downloads a malicious template formatted as an RTF file from a remote server controlled by the attackers. It contains a formula editor exploit that downloads and runs an HTML Application (HTA) file hosted on the same C2 server. The RTF and HTA downloads are restricted to certain time slots and victim IP addresses: requests are only allowed from target regions.

    The malicious HTA file extracts and writes several files to disk that are parts of the VBShower backdoor. VBShower then downloads and installs another backdoor: PowerShower. This infection scheme was originally described back in 2019 and has changed only slightly from year to year.

    Previously, Cloud Atlas employed PowerShower to download and run an executable file: a DLL library. This DLL would then fetch additional executable modules (plug-ins) from the C2 server and execute these in memory. Among these plug-ins was one specifically designed to exfiltrate files with extensions of interest to the attackers: DOC, DOCX, XLS, XLSX, PDF, RTF, JPG and JPEG. The plugins were downloaded and their output was uploaded via the WebDAV protocol over public cloud services. Interestingly, after a plug-in was successfully downloaded, the DLL would delete the file from the cloud.

    The VBCloud backdoor now replicates the executable file’s original capabilities, such as downloading and executing malicious plug-ins, communicating with a cloud server, and performing other tasks. We first detected attacks using this implant in August of last year. Since then, we’ve observed numerous variations of the backdoor which have helped it to stay under the radar. This new campaign loads VBCloud via VBShower, which also downloads the PowerShower module. PowerShower probes the local network and facilitates further infiltration, while VBCloud collects information about the system and steals files. Below, we use a sample seen in September 2024 as a case study to examine each stage of a Cloud Atlas attack that employs the new toolkit.

    Technical details

    HTA

    The exploit downloads the HTA file via the RTF template and runs it. It leverages the alternate data streams (NTFS ADS) feature to extract and create several files at %APPDATA%RoamingMicrosoftWindows. These files make up the VBShower backdoor.

    Sample HTA content

    Below are the VBShower components loaded by the HTA dropper.

    File name Description
    AppCache028732611605321388.log:AppCache02873261160532138892.vbs VBShower Launcher (copy)
    AppCache028732611605321388.log:AppCache028732611605321388.vbs VBShower Launcher
    AppCache028732611605321388.log:AppCache028732611605321388.dat Encrypted VBShower backdoor
    AppCache028732611605321388.log:AppCache0287326116053213889292.vbs VBShower Cleaner

    After the download is complete, the malware adds a registry key to auto-run the VBShower Launcher script.

    The backdoor also launches further scripts: VBShower Launcher (copy) and VBShower Cleaner.

    The attackers create custom HTA files for each victim, so the names of the scripts and registry keys are mostly unique. For example, we have seen intertwine used as a name template, while the file names themselves looked as follows.

    • “intertwine.ini:intertwineing.vbs”;
    • “intertwine.ini:intertwineinit.vbs”;
    • “intertwine.ini:intertwine.vbs”;
    • “intertwine.ini:intertwine.con”.

    VBShower

    VBShower::Launcher

    This script acts as a loader, responsible for reading and decrypting the contents of AppCache028732611605321388.log:AppCache028732611605321388.dat, before using the Execute() function to pass control to that file.

    Sample VBShower Launcher content

    VBShower::Cleaner

    This script is designed to clear the contents of all files inside the LocalMicrosoftWindowsTemporary Internet FilesContent.Word folder by opening each in write mode. While the files persist, their contents are erased. This is how the Trojan covers its tracks, removing malicious documents and templates it downloaded from the web during the attack.

    The script uses the same method to erase both its own contents and the contents of the VBShower Launcher copy, which is used solely for the malware’s first run.

    Sample VBShower Cleaner content

    VBShower::Backdoor

    The backdoor’s payload is contained encrypted within a DAT file.

    Encrypted VBShower backdoor

    VBShower::Launcher goes through several stages to decrypt the backdoor.

    First decrypted layer of VBShower Backdoor

    Fully decrypted and deobfuscated VBShower Backdoor content

    The VBShower backdoor then runs in memory, subsequently performing several operations in a loop.

    • Check for the autorun registry key and restore it if missing.
    • Attempt to download additional encrypted VB scripts from the C2 server and run these. If the downloaded data is larger than 1 MB, the module saves the script to disk inside alternate data streams (NTFS ADS) and runs it with the help of the “wscript” utility. Otherwise, it runs the script in the current context.
    • If an alternate data stream contains a TMP file, the backdoor sends it to the C2 server with a POST request. The additional scripts downloaded from the C2 use the TMP file to store their output.

    VBShower::Payload

    We were able to detect and analyze a number of scripts downloaded and executed by the VBShower backdoor.

    VBShower::Payload (1)

    The first script we found does the following.

    • Gets the domain, username and computer.
    • Gets the names and values of the registry keys in the SOFTWAREMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionRun branch.
    • Gets information about the file names and sizes in the following folders:
      • %AppData%;
      • %AllUsersProfile%;
      • %AllUsersProfile%Canon;
      • %AllUsersProfile%Intel;
      • %AllUsersProfile%Control;
      • %AllUsersProfile%libs;
      • %AllUsersProfile%Adobe;
      • %AllUsersProfile%Yandex;
      • %AllUsersProfile%Firefox;
      • %AllUsersProfile%Edge;
      • %AllUsersProfile%Chrome;
      • %AllUsersProfile%avp.
    • Gets the names of running processes, their start dates and the commands that started them.
    • Gets a list of scheduler tasks by running cmd.exe /c schtasks /query /v /fo LIST.

    All data collected this way is saved in a TMP alternate data stream and forwarded to the C2 server by the VBShower::Backdoor component.

    The paths listed above (%AllUsersProfile%) are used for installing the VBCloud backdoor. The steps performed by the script are most likely needed to check if the backdoor is present and installed correctly.

    Decrypted and deobfuscated contents of script 1

    VBShower::Payload (2)

    The second script reboots the system.

    Decrypted and deobfuscated contents of script 2

    VBShower::Payload (3)

    A further script downloads a ZIP archive, extracts it into the %TMP% directory, and collects the names and sizes of downloaded files to then send an extraction report to the C2. This is done to verify that the files were received and unpacked.

    Decrypted and deobfuscated contents of script 3

    VBShower::Payload (4) and (5)

    VBShower downloads two similar scripts that are designed for installing the VBCloud and PowerShower backdoors. These scripts first download an archive from a hardcoded link and then unpack it into the %ALLUSERSPROFILE% folder. In the case of VBCloud, the script changes the extension of the unpacked file from TXT to VBS and creates a scheduler task to run VBCloud. In the case of PowerShower, the extension of the unpacked file is changed from TXT to PS1, whereupon the script adds the file to the Run registry branch.

    Unlike VBShower’s own scripts, downloadable scripts with a payload are present on disk as files, rather than hidden inside alternate data streams.

    Besides installing backdoors, these scripts build a report that consists of the names of running processes, their start dates and the commands that started them, registry keys and values in the Run branch, and a list of files and directories at the path where the archive was unpacked. This report is then sent to the C2 server.

    Decrypted and deobfuscated contents of the scripts for downloading and installing VBCloud and PowerShower

    PowerShower

    PowerShower is nearly identical to VBShower in terms of functionality.

    Sample PowerShower script installed with VBShower

    PowerShower downloads additional PowerShell scripts from the C2 and executes these. If the downloaded data begins with the character “P”, PowerShower interprets the data as a ZIP archive, rather than a PowerShell script, and saves the archive to disk as “%TMP%Firefox.zip”. PowerShower does not unpack the archive, serving as a downloader only.

    Decoded PowerShower script

    The downloaded PowerShell scripts run in memory, without being saved to disk. Most of the scripts save their output to sapp.xtx, which PowerShower then sends as a report to the C2.

    The PowerShower scripts use the same C2 domains as VBShower.

    PowerShower::Payload (1)

    The script gets a list of local groups and their members on remote computers via Active Directory Service Interfaces (ADSI). The script is most often used on domain controllers.

    Sample script to get a local groups and members list, downloaded and executed by PowerShower

    PowerShower::Payload (2)

    Script for dictionary attacks on user accounts.

    Sample password bruteforcing script, downloaded and executed by PowerShower

    PowerShower::Payload (3)

    The script unpacks the Firefox.zip archive previously downloaded by the PowerShower backdoor, and executes the keb.ps1 script contained in the archive as a separate PowerShell process with a hidden window. The keb.ps1 script belongs to the popular PowerSploit framework for penetration testing and kicks off a Kerberoasting attack.

    Sample script that launches a Kerberoasting attack, downloaded and executed by PowerShower

    PowerShower::Payload (4)

    This script gets a list of administrator groups.

    Sample script to get a list of administrator groups, downloaded and executed by PowerShower

    PowerShower::Payload (5)

    This script gets a list of domain controllers.

    Sample script to get a list of domain controllers, downloaded and executed by PowerShower

    PowerShower::Payload (6)

    This script gets information about files inside the ProgramData directory.

    Sample script to get information about files inside the ProgramData directory, downloaded and executed by PowerShower

    PowerShower::Payload (7)

    This script gets the account policy and password policy settings on the local computer.

    Sample script to get policy settings, downloaded and executed by PowerShower

    PowerShower::Payload:: Inveigh

    We also observed the use of PowerShell Inveigh, a machine-in-the-middle attack utility used in penetration testing. Inveigh is used for data packet spoofing attacks, and collecting hashes and credentials both by intercepting packets and by using protocol-specific sockets.

    The Inveigh script is extracted from the ZIP archive downloaded by PowerShower and runs as described under PowerShower::Payload (3).

    Sample Inveigh script, downloaded and executed by PowerShower

    VBCloud

    As described above, VBCloud is installed via VBShower. We found the following module installation paths.

    Sample VBCloud main module paths

    The core functionality of the VBCloud module duplicates that of VBShower: both download and run PowerShell scripts with a payload, and then send the output to the C2. Unlike VBShower, however, VBCloud uses public cloud storage as the C2.

    Sample VBCloud script

    The VBCloud script does not contain any loops, and it is designed to execute only once. However, it gets triggered by a scheduled task every time the user logs into the system, which means it will run frequently. We’ve also seen variants of the backdoor that executed their core functionality in a loop with a thirty-minute delay between repetitions. These variants ran the script once via the Run registry branch when the system booted up for the first time after being infected.

    Decrypted and deobfuscated VBCloud script

    VBCloud does the following:

    • Check the availability of the kim.nl.tab.digital WebDav server by sending an HTTP MKCOL request to create the directories named “kmsobuqjquut” and “rwqdmpaohxns” with the credentials hardcoded in the script. If the server is unavailable, the script switches to the backup address “webdav.mydrive.ch”.
    • If the WebDav server is available, create a file in the “kmsobuqjquut” directory on that server via an HTTP PUT The file name follows the pattern ddmmyy_HHMMSS, and the extension is randomly selected from among TXT, RTF, DOC, PPT, MDS, PNG and JPEG. We have seen files named “070824_001919.txt” and “250724_002919.doc”. Files like these contain the username and MAC addresses of network adapters, effectively confirming that the script is active on the infected system.
    • The Trojan then attempts to download one of three files from the “rwqdmpaohxns” directory: “criclyqnduv.txt”, “jhflenoqelp.txt” or “avnwiabihik.txt”. If VBCloud successfully downloads the file, it immediately deletes it from the cloud with an HTTP DELETE request, and then executes it in the current process via the Execute() function after decrypting the contents. As in the case of PowerShower, the payload can be made up of various scripts.

    VBCloud::Payload (1)

    This script is designed to send information about disks to the C2.

    VBCloud::Payload (2)

    This script is designed to exfiltrate files and documents. It iterates through local drives and removable media in search of files with the extensions DOC, DOCX, XLS, XLSX, PDF, TXT, RTF and RAR. The script checks the size of any files it finds to match this condition and collects those between 1000 and 3,000,000 bytes to exfiltrate. The files must have been modified no more than 72 hours before the current date. The script then copies matching files to a ZIP archive it creates, named “mapping.zip”. It also adds a file with metadata such as the created time, modified time, last opened time, and full path to the file. Upon exceeding 4,000,000 bytes, an archive is uploaded to cloud storage and deleted from the system. It is replaced with a new one, and the file harvesting process continues. The archive is uploaded in RC4-encrypted form, with a name that follows the template “%d_13134” and one of the following extensions chosen at random: MP3, AAC, MP2, FLAC, WAV, ALAC, MQA, OGG, DSD, WMA, and MP4.

    Part of the file exfiltration script

    VBCloud::Payload (3)

    This script gets various system information such as the OS version, RAM size, manufacturer, computer name, username and domain name.

    VBCloud::Payload (4)

    Script to exfiltrate Telegram files:

    • The file D877F783D5D3EF8Cs contains the user ID and encryption key used for interaction between the desktop client and Telegram servers.
    • The file key_datas contains local encryption keys.

    Part of the file exfiltration script

    Geography of attacked users

    Several dozen users were attacked in 2024, 82% of these in Russia. Isolated attacks were recorded in Belarus, Canada, Moldova, Israel, Kyrgyzstan, Vietnam and Turkey.

    Conclusion

    We continue to monitor activity linked to Cloud Atlas. In a new campaign that began in August 2023, the attackers made changes to their familiar toolkit. This time, instead of an executable library to load malware modules, the group relied on the VBShower backdoor as the loader. Besides, they are now using a new module in their attacks: VBCloud. This collects and uploads system information and other data. These actions employ a variety of PowerShell scripts that enable the attackers to perform a range of tasks on the victim’s system. VBCloud uses public cloud storage as a C2 server.

    The infection chain consists of several stages and ultimately aims to steal data from victims’ devices. We’ve observed that, similar to past Cloud Atlas campaigns, phishing emails continue to be the initial access point. This underscores the still-pressing need for organizations to strengthen their infrastructure defenses and improve employee awareness to ward off these kinds of attacks.

    Indicators of compromise

    HTA file download domains
    content-protect[.]net
    control-issue[.]net
    office-confirm[.]com
    onesoftware[.]info
    serverop-parametrs[.]com
    web-privacy[.]net
    net-plugin[.]org
    triger-working[.]com

    VBShower C2
    yandesks[.]net
    yandisk[.]info
    mirconnect[.]info
    sber-cloud[.]info
    gosportal[.]net
    riamir[.]net
    web-wathapp[.]com

    PowerShower C2
    yandisk[.]info
    yandesktop[.]com
    web-wathapp[.]com

    Cloud repositories used ​by VBCloud
    webdav.opendrive.com
    webdav.mydrive.ch
    webdav.yandex.ru
    kim.nl.tab.digital

    HTA MD5
    9D3557CC5C444FE5D73E4C7FE1872414
    CBA05E11CB9D1D71F0FA70ECD1AF2480
    CBFB691E95EE34A324F94ED1FF91BC23
    2D24044C0A5B9EBE4E01DED2BFC2B3A4
    88BE01F8C4A9F335D33FA7C384CA4666
    A30319545FDA9E2DA0532746C09130EB

    PowerShower MD5
    15FD46AC775A30B1963281A037A771B1
    31B01387CA60A1771349653A3C6AD8CA
    389BC3B9417D893F3324221141EDEA00

    VBShower::Launcher MD5
    AA8DA99D5623FAFED356A14E59ACBB90
    016B6A035B44C1AD10D070ABCDFE2F66
    160A65E830EB97AAE6E1305019213558
    184CF8660AF7538CD1CD2559A10B6622
    1AF1F9434E4623B7046CF6360E0A520E
    1BFB9CBA8AA23A401925D356B2F6E7ED
    21585D5881CC11ED1F615FDB2D7ACC11
    242E86E658FE6AB6E4C81B68162B3001
    2FE7E75BC599B1C68B87CF2A3E7AA51F
    36DD0FBD19899F0B23ADE5A1DE3C2FEC
    389F6E6FD9DCC84C6E944DC387087A56
    3A54ACD967DD104522BA7D66F4D86544
    3F12BF4A8D82654861B5B5993C012BFA
    49F8ED13A8A13799A34CC999B195BF16
    4B96DC735B622A94D3C74C0BE9858853
    F45008BF1889A8655D32A0EB93B8ACDD

    VBCloud MD5
    0139F32A523D453BC338A67CA45C224D
    01DB58A1D0EC85ADC13290A6290AD9D6
    0F37E1298E4C82098DC9318C7E65F9D2
    6FCEE9878216019C8DFA887075C5E68E
    D445D443ACE329FB244EDC3E5146313B
    F3F28018FB5108B516D802A038F90BDE

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: London set to be undisputed global capital for women’s sport in 2025 as city plays host to the world’s biggest events

    Source: Mayor of London

    • The Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 final at Twickenham set to have world-record attendance for a one-day women’s rugby event
    • Women’s tennis will return to the Queen’s Club for first time in more than 50 years
    • World class women’s cricket, football, netball, hockey, basketball and athletics also feature on packed sporting events calendar in London next year

     

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan has today declared that London is set to be the undisputed global capital for women’s sport in 2025, with some of the world’s biggest sporting events to be hosted in the capital next year.

    The final in London is set to have a world-record attendance for a one-day women’s rugby event, with demand outstripping the supply of tickets for the Twickenham showpiece. Attendance is expected to top both the 58,498 who watched England beat France at the same venue in 2023 and the 66,000 at the Stade de France for the women’s Olympic sevens at Paris 2024. In total, more than 220,000 tickets have already been sold for the tournament, ensuring it will be the best attended in history.

    Ahead of the Women’s Rugby World Cup, Twickenham will host one of the biggest matches in the 2025 Guinness Women’s Six Nations Rugby as England face France on 26 April, in a clash of the two highest ranked teams in the tournament.

    Another major milestone for women’s sport next year will be the return of a women’s tennis tournament to the iconic Queen’s Club for the first time in more than 50 years. The new Women’s WTA 500 event begins on 9 June, with former British No.1 and Olympic Silver medallist Laura Robson appointed as Tournament Director. The tournament will be held shortly ahead of the prestigious 2025 Wimbledon Championships at the All England Lawn Tennis Club, where the world’s best women’s and men’s tennis players will compete for the for the biggest prize in the sport.

    In cricket, England Women face India in a highly anticipated clash between two of the world’s best sides. They will compete in a T20 International at The Kia Oval on 4 July, ahead of a One Day International (ODI) on 19 July at Lord’s, the Home of Cricket. The first ever Vitality Blast Women’s Finals Day will take place at The Kia Oval on 27 July while The Hundred competition is scheduled to take place across August, where London has two women’s teams – the Oval Invincibles (based at The Kia Oval) and London Spirit (based at Lord’s).

    The summer will also see the return of world class athletics to London Stadium as the 2025 London Athletics Meet is staged on 19 July as part of the Wanda Diamond League series. The 2024 event was a sell out for a second year in a row and featured international superstars including Dina Asher-Smith, Keely Hodgkinson and Femke Bol, with a world class line up expected again this year.

    London remains the world’s top destination for women’s football. On 26 February the England Lionesses, the current European Champions, will host reigning World Champions Spain at Wembley Stadium in a repeat of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup final. The Adobe Women’s FA Cup final will take place at the same venue on 18 May.

    London teams also make up almost half of the Barclays Women’s Super League (WSL). Arsenal, Chelsea, Crystal Palace, Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United are all currently competing in the 24/25 WSL, with the season running until May 2025. After a summer break, the 25/26 WSL season will begin in September.

    The capital is also the best city to watch netball, with the Copper Box on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park the home of Netball Super League (NSL) team London Pulse. The new NSL season will run from March to July 2025, with the NSL Grand Final taking place at the O2 Arena on 6 July.

    In basketball, the Playoff Finals will also return to the O2 Arena on May 18, where the top teams from the Women’s and Men’s Super League’s will compete for the coveted title.

    Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan said: “I’m so excited that London is set to be the undisputed global capital for women’s sport in 2025, with some of the world’s biggest events coming to our city next year.

    “I am delighted that we will be playing host to the Women’s Rugby World Cup, while we will also see the historic return of women’s tennis to the Queen’s Club. This is in addition to world class women’s cricket, football, netball, hockey, basketball and athletics in the capital.

    “I would urge Londoners to take up the opportunity to attend some of these amazing events, cheering on our top athletes and sports women. Ensuring London hosts many of the world’s leading sporting events is an important part of our work building a better London for everyone.”

    An estimated six million people attended sporting events across the capital this summer, including the UEFA Champions League Final and European Professional Club Rugby Finals, cementing London’s position as the undisputed sporting capital of the world.*

    Polling from YouGov found that 62 per cent of Londoners feel proud of living in London when major sporting events are hosted, with 72 per cent of 18 to 24-year-olds feeling proud. More than two-thirds (69 per cent) of Londoners think that hosting major sporting events impacts positively on London’s economy.**

    The capital was also crowned the world’s leading sporting events host in the 2024 Global Cities Report as well as the best cultural experience destination.***

    Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 Managing Director, Sarah Massey said: “With the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 set to capture hearts and headlines globally, the anticipation for the tournament is reaching new heights.

    “We’ve seen unprecedented demand for tickets across the tournament and with the iconic Twickenham Stadium hosting the final, fans can expect an unmissable experience and an incredible celebration of women’s rugby on its biggest stage.”

    The FA’s Women’s Technical Director, Kay Cossington said: “2025 is shaping up to be another momentous year for the women’s game and the Lionesses as we look forward to an unmissable EURO in the summer. Before then, the European champions will take on the world champions Spain at Wembley Stadium in February with another bumper crowd expected through the turnstiles.

    “The Lionesses’ fixtures at Wembley are always so special and reminiscent of that memorable July day in 2022 when the team made history by lifting our first major trophy. Away from England, Wembley Stadium will once again play host to the landmark event in the domestic women’s calendar – the Adobe Women’s FA Cup Final. With the final selling out Wembley for the last two seasons in a row, we’re expecting the May 2025 final to be another unmissable showpiece.”

    The FA’s Women’s Technical Director, Kay Cossington said: “2025 is shaping up to be another momentous year for the women’s game and the Lionesses as we look forward to an unmissable EURO in the summer. Before then, the European champions will take on the world champions Spain at Wembley Stadium in February with another bumper crowd expected through the turnstiles.

    “The Lionesses’ fixtures at Wembley are always so special and reminiscent of that memorable July day in 2022 when the team made history by lifting our first major trophy. Away from England, Wembley Stadium will once again play host to the landmark event in the domestic women’s calendar – the Adobe Women’s FA Cup Final. With the final selling out Wembley for the last two seasons in a row, we’re expecting the May 2025 final to be another unmissable showpiece.”

    The All England Lawn Tennis Club Chief Executive, Sally Bolton said: “There is no doubt that London is a sporting powerhouse and 2025 is set to be a year of fantastic women’s sport for the capital. We look forward to playing our part as we welcome the world to Wimbledon for the 138th staging of The Championship with the world’s best tennis players going head to head on the lawns of SW19.”

    The ECB Director of Women’s Professional Game, Beth Barrett-Wild said: “Off the back of another year of extraordinary growth in 2024, we are set for an unmissable summer of women’s cricket in London in 2025.

    “In June, England Women take on India with two huge games here in the capital; in July, the first ever Vitality T20 Blast Women’s Finals Day is coming to the Kia Oval; and across August, The Hundred will be front and centre with The Final at Lord’s.

    “Last year The Hundred once again broke the global record for total attendance at a women’s cricket competition, with 320,000 fans in attendance, we’ll be hoping to see even more fans this year.

    “All this sets the scene for a huge 2026 when we host the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup here in England, with women’s cricket here in London at the centre of a global competition.”

    Netball Super League Managing Director, Claire Nelson said: “We are incredibly excited to bring the Netball Super League Grand Final to The O2 for the very first time in 2025.

    “The O2 is one of the most prestigious arenas in the world and will provide the perfect backdrop to a world class event and an unforgettable experience for fans, players and everyone involved. As we enter a new professional era for League, this event will be a major moment for our sport that will see us continue to push the boundaries to make our events bigger and better than ever before.”

    UK Sport CEO, Sally Munday said: “2025 is going to be a spectacular year for women’s sport in the UK. In particular,  we are incredibly excited about the Women’s Rugby World Cup, which is set to be a big celebration of Women’s sport with huge potential to unite and inspire people right across the UK. The final at Twickenham Stadium promises to be one of the iconic sporting moments of next year.

    “We know that live sport has a unique place in the hearts of the British public. As our nation’s capital, London is a crucial partner in making live sport matter and maintaining the UK’s world-leading reputation for hosting major sporting events. 

    “We look forward to working together with the Mayor and his team to bring more of the biggest and best sporting events in the world to our shores in 2025 and beyond.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: How to have a pet-safe Christmas

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Chief Veterinary Officer shares advice on helping pets stay safe over Christmas

    The Chief Veterinary Officer has reminded families of some of the ways to exercise caution with their pets around Christmas to ensure a safe festive period for the whole family.

    It is particularly important to remain vigilant about what your pet is consuming as harmful foods can often be more accessible around the house during this time of year.

    It is best to check with your vet regarding any specific diets, but here are some general reminders which can help:

    • Chocolate is poisonous for dogs and if consumed requires urgent vet attention, so be wary about leaving boxes of chocolates exposed to dogs.
    • If you are sharing your Christmas dinners with pets, certain elements should not under any circumstances be given to them: Turkey bones can cause blockages in their airways, while onions, garlic, shallots and leeks should also not be shared with dogs as these ingredients are all toxic to them.
    • Sweet items should also be shared with caution as mincemeat, currants, raisins and sultanas are also toxic. Vets will be best placed to advise on the entire list, as diets can also vary depending on the pets.

    Pets should also be supervised around Christmas decorations: keep tinsel and decorations such as Christmas lights at a safe distance to avoid animals eating or chewing them, and regularly hoover to avoid pets eating fallen pine needles. Be mindful of other festive hazards including poinsettias, holly berries and mistletoe which can also be harmful if eaten.

    Keep your pets safe in the cold weather by making sure their bedding is kept away from cold draughts and keep dogs away from frozen ponds and lakes when out on a walk.

    UK Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss said:

    Whilst Christmas is not the best time to introduce a new pet to your household, there are precautions you can take over the festive period to make sure you are taking steps to keep them safe and happy.

    There are some increased risks around this time – from potential hazards such as toxic foods to making sure your animals are kept warm – and being aware of these will help you and your pets have a safe and enjoyable Christmas.

    If you are buying a new dog for Christmas, make sure you check the animal is microchipped and that the keeper’s details are registered to a compliant database. Deceitful pet sellers use a range of tactics to ‘Petfish’ unsuspecting buyers. These unscrupulous sellers pretend that the puppy or kitten they’re selling you comes from a happy home. In reality, the animal may have been bred or kept in poor conditions.

    Bringing pets to the UK from overseas has increased animal health and welfare risks. If rescuing a pet from abroad, families should check who the rescue organisation is, that the pet will be transported by an authorised transporter and that the animal has received a vet check before travel. Prospective owners should also check that the pet has been tested for any relevant disease before moving them to the UK. 

    It’s important to do your research so you know your new pet has come from a responsible seller.

    If you have any concerns or queries regarding your pets over Christmas, it is best to get in touch with your vet. Further information on our Petfished campaign is available on GOV.UK.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 December 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Report 13/2024: Collision between a passenger train and a fallen tree at Broughty Ferry

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    RAIB has today released its report into a collision between a passenger train and a fallen tree at Broughty Ferry, Dundee, 27 December 2023.

    Damage to the driving cab sustained in the collision (images courtesy of ScotRail).

    R132024_241223_Broughty Ferry

    PDF, 12.4 MB, 49 pages

    This file may not be suitable for users of assistive technology.

    Request an accessible format.
    If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need a version of this document in a more accessible format, please email enquiries@raib.gov.uk. Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.

    Summary

    At around 13:09 on 27 December 2023, the 10:46 Perth to Aberdeen passenger service collided with a fallen tree approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) east of Broughty Ferry, Dundee. The train was travelling at around 84 mph (135 km/h) when the collision occurred. The train suffered significant damage to the leading driving cab. There were no physical injuries to the 37 passengers and three staff members on board the train.

    The tree had fallen from Barnhill Rock Gardens, a public park owned by Dundee City Council, and was brought down by winds during Storm Gerrit. This storm had been subjecting the area to high winds and heavy rain for several hours preceding the accident. RAIB’s investigation found that the soil in which the tree was rooted had characteristics which limited the tree’s ability to resist the wind forces acting on it. In addition, three other trees at this location had been felled before May 2023, increasing the exposure of the tree which fell to winds from the Firth of Tay.

    Around 12 minutes before the collision, a member of the public became aware that a tree had fallen across the railway and contacted Network Rail using the public helpline. The helpline call handler attempted to pass this information on to Network Rail’s Scotland route control on a number of occasions, but the call from the helpline call handler was not answered until after the accident. This meant that a warning about the fallen tree did not reach the driver of the train in time to prevent the accident.

    The risk of trees in Barnhill Rock Gardens falling onto the railway not being effectively controlled was the factor underlying the accident. Network Rail is reliant on neighbouring landowners controlling the risk associated with visually healthy trees falling onto the railway lines from outside of the railway boundary. However, Dundee City Council did not effectively manage the risk of trees falling from its land onto the adjacent railway lines.

    As a consequence of the accident, the survival space in the cab was considerably reduced. The driver only escaped serious injury by crouching behind the driving seat once they had made an emergency brake application on realising the collision was inevitable. RAIB also observed that the telephone equipment used at Scotland integrated control centre did not display missed call information.

    Since this accident, Network Rail has provided helpline staff with an additional contact telephone number for use in emergencies.

    Recommendations

    RAIB has made three recommendations as a result of its investigation. The first of these is to Network Rail to consider how technology could assist in the detection of trees subject to altered exposure, including those trees on third-party land. The second recommendation is that Dundee City Council should review its management of the trees for which it is responsible to ensure that it is effectively controlling the risk of them falling onto the railway.

    RAIB has also recommended that the Rail Safety and Standards Board’s Carmont recommendations steering group should review its response to recommendation 19 made within RAIB report 02/2022, following the investigation into the derailment of a passenger train at Carmont, Aberdeenshire on 12 August 2020.

    Notes to editors

    1. The sole purpose of RAIB investigations is to prevent future accidents and incidents and improve railway safety. RAIB does not establish blame, liability or carry out prosecutions.

    2. RAIB operates, as far as possible, in an open and transparent manner. While our investigations are completely independent of the railway industry, we do maintain close liaison with railway companies and if we discover matters that may affect the safety of the railway, we make sure that information about them is circulated to the right people as soon as possible, and certainly long before publication of our final report.

    3. For media enquiries, please call 01932 440015.

    Newsdate: 23 December 2024

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 December 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Scientific Library of the State University of Management: Review of the Results of the “Department Weeks”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    Last year, on the initiative of the rector’s advisor Sergey Chuev, for the 105th anniversary of the State University of Management, the Scientific Library of the State University of Management launched the project “Department Weeks in the Scientific Library”. Every two weeks, the departments, replacing each other, organized conferences, round tables, discussions, quests, book presentations in their areas of activity and other events.

    “Department Weeks” attracted the attention of both the staff and students of the State University of Management, as well as guests of the Scientific Library, creating an atmosphere of lively exchange of knowledge and ideas. This happened, among other things, thanks to the work of the head of the information and bibliographic department Olga Fomakina and the chief bibliographer Olga Korshunova, who with special attention and care selected literature for exhibitions of the works of the department scientists. Their professionalism and creative approach made the project not only popular, but also a real scientific event. In total, 1,180 books were presented at the exhibitions. Each exhibit was not just a book, but a window into the world of scientific discoveries and achievements, arousing genuine interest and inspiration in all visitors.

    This academic year, the following departments presented their achievements:

    Department of Philosophy (September 9–22); Department of Mathematical Methods in Economics and Management (September 23–October 6); Department of Economics and Management in Construction (October 7–20); Department of Physical Education (October 21–November 3); Department of Public and Municipal Administration (November 4–17); Department of Environmental Management (November 18–December 1); Department of Management in International Business and Tourism Industry (December 2–15).

    The Department of Philosophy participated in the project twice. In September, a tour of the Scientific Library was organized for students of the Institute of Personnel Management, Social and Business Communications. Candidate of Cultural Studies, senior lecturer of the department Liana Popova introduced them to the teaching aids, monographs and other publications of the department.

    The Department of Mathematical Methods in Economics and Management held a tour for first-year students of the educational program “Business Mathematics and Data Analysis”. Deputy Head of the Department, PhD in Economics, Associate Professor Inna Kramarenko introduced them to the works of the department’s scientists, including the works of the head of the department Olga Pisareva and the founder of the department Vasily Dudorin.

    The Department of Economics and Management in Construction organized a round table for its employees and students studying in the educational programs implemented by the department, “Scientific and educational potential of the department as a basis for developing competencies.” The head of the department, candidate of economic sciences, associate professor, corresponding member of the REA Olga Astafieva gave a welcoming speech, outlining the development trajectories of the implemented educational programs in the bachelor’s and master’s programs. Senior lecturer Yuri Tikhonov introduced the participants to the history of the department, famous scientists and important textbooks that have become the main ones in their disciplines. Professor of the department, candidate of economic sciences, professor Tatyana Shemyakina discussed with students the importance of books in the modern educational process.

    Teachers of the Department of Physical Education Ekaterina Gracheva, Denis Kokorev and Dmitry Savchenko organized a lecture for first-year students on the topic of “Physical Activity in a Student’s Life”, discussed in detail the basics of a healthy lifestyle and its components and talked about the physiological processes that occur in the human body under the influence of various types of physical activity. The participants of the event talked about why physical activity is important, how it affects a person’s mental health and mental performance and what consequences a sedentary lifestyle leads to. For students of the 1st-3rd years, a lecture “Stress and Health” was held on the possible consequences of stress on human health and the necessary skills to increase stress resistance in a student’s daily routine. The lecture was given by Associate Professor of the Department, Candidate of Pedagogical Sciences, Associate Professor Irina Merkulova. The event was prepared and organized by Associate Professor of the Department, Candidate of Pedagogical Sciences, Associate Professor Tatyana Siverkina and Senior Lecturer Tatyana Vedishcheva.

    The Department of Public and Municipal Administration participated in the project for the third time. As part of the “Department Weeks” in November, senior lecturer of the department Elena Yamchuk held a round table on the specifics of managing joint-stock companies with state participation. An open lesson with 2nd-year students of the “Public and Municipal Administration” program on working with the “ConsultantPlus” system as part of studying the discipline “State Regulation of the Economy” was held with the participation of professor of the department, doctor of economic sciences, associate professor Nadezhda Matveeva. The head of the department, adviser to the rector’s office, candidate of historical sciences, associate professor Sergey Chuev and deputy head of the department, associate professor of the department, candidate of economic sciences Mikhail Polyakov organized an open assessment of the knowledge of 4th-year students of the “Public and Municipal Administration” program, accompanied by experts from the National Accreditation Council for Business and Management Education. Mikhail Polyakov also held a foresight session with 4th year students on the topic: “Increasing the level of investment attractiveness of small towns” and a strategic session on the topic: “The role of public organizations in the interaction of civil society and politics in the social sphere”.

    The Department of Nature Management, with the active participation of Candidate of Technical Sciences, Associate Professor Ekaterina Shamaeva, enthusiastically prepared an exhibition of scientific works of its employees and books devoted to issues of nature management. Of particular interest was the series of publications on national security issues “Russia’s Security. Legal, Socio-Economic and Scientific-Technical Aspects”, presented by Doctor of Technical Sciences, Professor, Honored Scientist of the Russian Federation Yakov Vishnyakov.

    The project ended with events of the Department of Management in International Business and Tourism Industry.

    On December 6, in the Scientific Library, Associate Professor of the Department, Candidate of Psychological Sciences, Associate Professor Svetlana Grishaeva held a Discussion Club “Doing Russian Business with Chinese Partners” with 3rd-year students of the Management program of the International Business educational program. The participants discussed effective communication strategies with partners and China, including existing barriers and stereotypes about the specifics of working with Chinese businessmen, worked out cases of various situations of interaction between Chinese and Russian partners and considered typical mistakes in building Russian-Chinese business.

    On December 7, at the Boiling Point of the State University of Management, senior lecturer of the department Anna Firsova organized a business game “Creating Inclusive Tourist Routes” for 4th-year students majoring in “Hotel Business” of the educational program “Hotel and Restaurant Business”. Students, divided into teams, developed a tourist route for a certain category of tourists (for example, for people with limited mobility, vision, hearing, cognitive impairment) based on a study of the needs of the selected category of tourists and determining the main points of the route that should be accessible and interesting for them. As a result of the presentation of the developed routes, student teams selected the best tourist routes that can be implemented in real inclusive tourism projects.

    On December 11, in the Scientific Library, senior lecturer of the department Anna Zbarskaya held a seminar in English “Cross-cultural aspects in the hospitality industry”, which was dedicated to the importance of studying the cultures of different countries and the formation of cultural intelligence for successful business communications. Third-year students of the “Hotel Business” program of the “Hotel and Restaurant Business” discussed the main theoretical issues related to cross-cultural communications, including such concepts as culture, models and types of cultures, culture shock, etc., presented their results of the analysis of different countries and their cultures, considered strategies for effective intercultural communication and ways to overcome cross-cultural problems during negotiations and doing business in the hotel industry.

    The Scientific Library of the State University of Management congratulates everyone on the upcoming holidays and looks forward to seeing everyone at its events in the New Year!

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 23.12.2024

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Half a Century of Warranty: Dormitory No. 6 Receives New Fire Safety System

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    Good pre-New Year news for students of the State University of Management living in Dormitory No. 6 – work on the installation of the internal fire-fighting water supply system and the input unit of the building’s water supply system has been completed.

    The work was carried out from August to December 2024. The technical condition of the pipelines and shut-off valves of the internal fire-fighting water supply (IFW) before the work was carried out was assessed as unsatisfactory, the IFW was not in operation and was in a pre-emergency condition.

    As a result of the work performed, all six VPV risers, as well as the upper and lower spills of the building, were replaced, a Modular Fire Extinguishing Pumping Station and a Modular Water Supply Pumping Station were installed.

    The internal fire water supply system is installed using modern BLOCKFIRE plastic pipelines, the service life of which is more than 50 years.

    All work was carried out in accordance with the requirements of regulatory documents in the field of fire safety.

    The installed and commissioned internal fire water supply system ensures the safety of residents and staff in the event of a fire, which is a priority for the State University of Management.

    However, we strongly recommend that you follow all fire safety rules during the New Year holidays and beyond.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 23.12.2024

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: WisdomTree Issuer ICAV – Q4 2024 Distributions Announcement

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    For Immediate Release:                                                        23-Dec-24

    WisdomTree Issuer ICAV
    Re: Dividend Payment

    The Directors of WisdomTree Issuer ICAV (the “Fund”) wish to announce the following dividend(s)
    paid by the Fund for the quarter to December 2024.

    Announcement Date: 23-Dec-24
    Ex-Date: 03-Jan-25
    Record Date: 06-Jan-25
    Payment Date: 17-Jan-25

    Sub-Fund/Share Class ISIN Currency Amount per Share
    WisdomTree Emerging Markets Equity Income UCITS ETF IE00BQQ3Q067 USD 0.0686
    WisdomTree Emerging Markets Small Cap Dividend UCITS ETF IE00BQZJBM26 USD 0.0695
    WisdomTree US Equity Income UCITS ETF IE00BQZJBQ63 USD 0.1799
    WisdomTree Europe Equity Income UCITS ETF IE00BQZJBX31 EUR 0.1255
    WisdomTree Europe Equity UCITS ETF – USD Hedged IE00BVXBH163 USD 0.1116
    WisdomTree Europe Equity UCITS ETF – GBP Hedged IE00BYQCZQ89 GBP 0.0807*
    WisdomTree Europe Small Cap Dividend UCITS ETF IE00BQZJC527 EUR 0.1629
    WisdomTree Japan Equity UCITS ETF – USD Hedged IE00BVXC4854 USD 0.3179
    WisdomTree Japan Equity UCITS ETF – GBP Hedged IE00BYQCZF74 GBP 0.2058*
    WisdomTree Enhanced Commodity UCITS ETF – USD IE00BZ1GHD37 USD 0.6187
    WisdomTree Eurozone Quality Dividend Growth UCITS ETF – EUR IE00BZ56SY76 EUR 0.0893
    WisdomTree US Quality Dividend Growth UCITS ETF – USD IE00BZ56RD98 USD 0.1338
    WisdomTree US Quality Dividend Growth UCITS ETF – GBP Hedged IE000IGMB3E1 GBP 0.0594*
    WisdomTree Global Quality Dividend Growth UCITS ETF – USD IE00BZ56RN96 USD 0.0856
    WisdomTree Global Quality Dividend Growth UCITS ETF – GBP Hedged IE000LRRPK60 GBP 0.0463*
    WisdomTree Global Quality Dividend Growth UCITS ETF – USD (Inst) IE00030Y2P41 USD 26.8226
    WisdomTree AT1 CoCo Bond UCITS ETF – USD IE00BZ0XVF52 USD 1.2227
    WisdomTree AT1 CoCo Bond UCITS ETF – USD Hedged IE00BFNNN012 USD 1.3689
    WisdomTree AT1 CoCo Bond UCITS ETF – EUR Hedged IE00BFNNN236 EUR 1.2808*
    WisdomTree AT1 CoCo Bond UCITS ETF – GBP Hedged IE00BFNNN459 GBP 1.3311*
    WisdomTree USD Floating Rate Treasury Bond UCITS ETF – USD IE00BJFN5P63 USD 0.5603
    WisdomTree New Economy Real Estate UCITS ETF – USD IE000X9TLGN8 USD 0.1963
    WisdomTree UK Quality Dividend Growth UCITS ETF – GBP IE0003UH9270 GBP 0.1654
           
    * Amount has been converted to share class currency using the WMR 4pm rate on 20 December.    

    Enquiries to:

    State Street Fund Services (Ireland) Limited        Karen Campion                            +353 1 776 0406
    IQ EQ Fund Management (Ireland) Limited        Paul Boland                        +353 1 697 1684

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Himax to Unveil State-of-the-Art WiseEye Module Solutions at CES 2025 Empowering Seamless AIoT Integration

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TAINAN, Taiwan, Dec. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Himax Technologies, Inc. (“Himax” or “Company”) (Nasdaq: HIMX), an industry leader in fabless display driver ICs and other semiconductors, today announced that the Company and its AI ecosystem partners will unveil a suite of innovative, production-ready AIoT applications at CES 2025, powered by Himax’s groundbreaking ultralow power WiseEye Module solutions. These designs will showcase intuitive, user-friendly AI capabilities set to transform multiple industries by improving productivity, scalability, automation, and efficiency, all while delivering better performance and lower power consumption. Himax’s ultralow power WiseEye Module solutions are leading the AIoT revolution with their advanced, efficient, and scalable AI-driven technologies.

    The Himax WiseEye Module seamlessly integrates ultralow power WiseEye AI processors and proprietary always-on CMOS sensors, designed with compact form factors, high integration, and plug-and-play functionality. Characterized by remarkably low power consumption at just single-digit milliwatts, it is ideal for battery-powered endpoint devices that cater to everyday life. The WiseEye Module incorporates versatile AI models from in-house or third-party partners, enabling no-code/low-code AI development for use cases like people counting, gesture recognition, human detection, face recognition, and audio command classification. This simplifies the AI development process, reducing cost and time, allowing AI developers, even those with limited AI expertise, to easily integrate advanced AI features into their systems and applications. Given their versatility, WiseEye Modules are poised to become foundational technology for a wide range of IoT applications.

    At the event, a visionary and innovative lineup of ultralow power WiseEye Module solutions will be on display, showcasing their potential to revolutionize AI-powered applications across industries.

    • WiseEye PalmVein Module: Offers secure, reliable contactless biometric authentication by utilizing unique vein patterns, ensuring robust security and privacy through on-device inferencing
    • AI Baby Cry Detection Module: Accurately detects infant and child crying even in noisy environments, enhancing child safety and enabling timely, automated caregiving
    • Dynamic Gesture Module: Enables intuitive human-machine interaction, supporting a wide range of static and dynamic gestures for seamless control, enhancing accessibility and convenience without the need for traditional input methods
    • Human Sensing Module: Provides precise and energy-efficient human presence detection, creating more responsive and convenient environments in smart homes and offices
    • People Flow Management Solution: Improves space optimization and operational efficiency by analyzing human movement patterns, enabling better resource planning and allocation

    More compelling joint demonstrations with ecosystem partners will also be showcased at the event, including the world-first AI agent SenseCAP Watcher developed with Seeed Studio, mixed reality eye-tracking solutions with Ganzin, and AI-enabled thermal sensing modules in collaboration with leading thermal sensor partners, among others.

    “Our WiseEye™ Modules are designed to drive innovation and enhance lives through advanced, seamless AI integration, all while consuming ultralow power,” said Mark Chen, Vice President of Smart Sensing Business at Himax. “At Himax, we are dedicated to advancing the future of AI vision with innovative, ultralow power, easy-to-adopt AI solutions, enabling seamless integration of advanced vision AI into diverse IoT applications that power the next generation of intelligent, connected devices, enhancing everyday life,” concluded Mark.

    Himax invites all interested parties to stop by our exhibition booth at The Venetian Las Vegas Hotel (3355 Las Vegas Boulevard S, Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.A.) Venetian Tower Suite 34-208 to experience the Company and partners’ cutting-edge WiseEye Module solutions. To schedule a meeting or booth tour, please contact Himax at: Himax_CES2025@himax.com.tw.

    About Himax Technologies, Inc.

    Himax Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: HIMX) is a leading global fabless semiconductor solution provider dedicated to display imaging processing technologies. The Company’s display driver ICs and timing controllers have been adopted at scale across multiple industries worldwide including TVs, PC monitors, laptops, mobile phones, tablets, automotive, ePaper devices, industrial displays, among others. As the global market share leader in automotive display technology, the Company offers innovative and comprehensive automotive IC solutions, including traditional driver ICs, advanced in-cell Touch and Display Driver Integration (TDDI), local dimming timing controllers (Local Dimming Tcon), Large Touch and Display Driver Integration (LTDI) and OLED display technologies. Himax is also a pioneer in tinyML visual-AI and optical technology related fields. The Company’s industry-leading WiseEyeTM Ultralow Power AI Sensing technology which incorporates Himax proprietary ultralow power AI processor, always-on CMOS image sensor, and CNN-based AI algorithm has been widely deployed in consumer electronics and AIoT related applications. Himax optics technologies, such as diffractive wafer level optics, LCoS microdisplays and 3D sensing solutions, are critical for facilitating emerging AR/VR/metaverse technologies. Additionally, Himax designs and provides touch controllers, OLED ICs, LED ICs, EPD ICs, power management ICs, and CMOS image sensors for diverse display application coverage. Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Tainan, Taiwan, Himax currently employs around 2,200 people from three Taiwan-based offices in Tainan, Hsinchu and Taipei and country offices in China, Korea, Japan, Germany, and the US. Himax has 2,683 patents granted and 390 patents pending approval worldwide as of September 30, 2024.

    http://www.himax.com.tw

    Forward Looking Statements

    Factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those described in this conference call include, but are not limited to, the effect of the Covid-19 pandemic on the Company’s business; general business and economic conditions and the state of the semiconductor industry; market acceptance and competitiveness of the driver and non-driver products developed by the Company; demand for end-use applications products; reliance on a small group of principal customers; the uncertainty of continued success in technological innovations; our ability to develop and protect our intellectual property; pricing pressures including declines in average selling prices; changes in customer order patterns; changes in estimated full-year effective tax rate; shortage in supply of key components; changes in environmental laws and regulations; changes in export license regulated by Export Administration Regulations (EAR); exchange rate fluctuations; regulatory approvals for further investments in our subsidiaries; our ability to collect accounts receivable and manage inventory and other risks described from time to time in the Company’s SEC filings, including those risks identified in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in its Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2023 filed with the SEC, as may be amended.

    Company Contacts:

    Eric Li, Chief IR/PR Officer
    Himax Technologies, Inc.
    Tel: +886-6-505-0880
    Fax: +886-2-2314-0877
    Email: hx_ir@himax.com.tw
    www.himax.com.tw

    Karen Tiao, Investor Relations
    Himax Technologies, Inc.
    Tel: +886-2-2370-3999
    Fax: +886-2-2314-0877
    Email: hx_ir@himax.com.tw
    www.himax.com.tw

    Mark Schwalenberg, Director
    Investor Relations – US Representative
    MZ North America
    Tel: +1-312-261-6430
    Email: HIMX@mzgroup.us
    www.mzgroup.us

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Repression of climate and environmental protest is intensifying across the world

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Oscar Berglund, Senior Lecturer in International Public and Social Policy, University of Bristol

    Climate and environmental protest is being criminalised and repressed around the world. The criminalisation of such protest has received a lot of attention in certain countries, including the UK and Australia. But there have not been any attempts to capture the global trend – until now.

    We recently published a report, with three University of Bristol colleagues, which shows this repression is indeed a global trend – and that it is becoming more difficult around the world to stand up for climate justice.

    This criminalisation and repression spans the global north and south, and includes more and less democratic countries. It does, however, take different forms.

    Our report distinguishes between climate and environmental protest. The latter are campaigns against specific environmentally destructive projects – most commonly oil and gas extraction and pipelines, deforestation, dam building and mining. They take place all around the world.

    Climate protests are aimed at mitigating climate change by decreasing carbon emissions, and tend to make bigger policy or political demands (“cut global emissions now” rather than “don’t build this power plant”). They often take place in urban areas and are more common in the global north.

    Four ways to repress activism

    The intensifying criminalisation and repression is taking four main forms.

    1. Anti-protest laws are introduced

    Anti-protest laws may give the police more powers to stop protest, introduce new criminal offences, increase sentence lengths for existing offences, or give policy impunity when harming protesters. In the 14 countries we looked at, we found 22 such pieces of legislation introduced since 2019.

    2. Protest is criminalised through prosecution and courts

    This can mean using laws against climate and environmental activists that were designed to be used against terrorism or organised crime. In Germany, members of Letzte Generation (Last Generation), a direct action group in the mould of Just Stop Oil, were charged in May 2024 with “forming a criminal organisation”. This section of the law is typically used against mafia organisations and had never been applied to a non-violent group.

    In the Philippines, anti-terrorism laws have been used against environmentalists who have found themselves unable to return to their home islands.

    Criminalising protest can also mean lowering the threshold for prosecution, preventing climate activists from mentioning climate change in court, and changing other court processes to make guilty verdicts more likely. Another example is injunctions that can be taken out by corporations against activists who protest against them.

    3. Harsher policing

    This stretches from stopping and searching to surveillance, arrests, violence, infiltration and threatening activists. The policing of activists is carried out not just by state actors like police and armed forces, but also private actors including private security, organised crime and corporations.

    In Germany, regional police have been accused of collaborating with an energy giant (and its private fire brigade) to evict coal mine protesters, while private security was used extensively in policing anti-mining activists in Peru.

    4. Killings and disappearances

    Lastly, in the most extreme cases, environmental activists are murdered. This is an extension of the trend for harsher policing, as it typically follows threats by the same range of actors. We used data from the NGO Global Witness to show this is increasingly common in countries including Brazil, Philippines, Peru and India. In Brazil, most murders are carried out by organised crime groups while in Peru, it is the police force.

    Protests are increasing

    To look more closely at the global picture of climate and environmental protest – and the repression of it – we used the Armed Conflicts Location Event database. This showed us that climate protests increased dramatically in 2018-2019 and have not declined since. They make up on average about 4% of all protest in the 81 countries that had more than 1,000 protests recorded in the 2012-2023 period:

    Climate protests increased sharply in the late 2010s in the 14 countries studied. (Data is smoothed over five months; number of protests is per country per month.)
    Berglund et al; Data: ACLED, CC BY-SA

    This second graph shows that environmental protest has increased more gradually:

    Environmental protests in the same 14 countries.
    Data: ACLED, CC BY-SA

    We used this data to see what kind of repression activists face. By looking for keywords in the reporting of protest events, we found that on average 3% of climate and environmental protests face police violence, and 6.3% involve arrests. But behind these averages are large differences in the nature of protest and its policing.

    A combination of the presence of protest groups like Extinction Rebellion, who often actively seek arrests, and police forces that are more likely to make arrests, mean countries such as Australia and the UK have very high levels of arrest. Some 20% of Australian climate and environmental protests involve arrests, against 17% in the UK – with the highest in the world being Canada on 27%.

    Meanwhile, police violence is high in countries such as Peru (6.5%) and Uganda (4.4%). France stands out as a European country with relatively high levels of police violence (3.2%) and low levels of arrests (also 3.2%).

    In summary, while criminalisation and repression does not look the same across the world, there are remarkable similarities. It is increasing in a lot of countries, it involves both state and corporate actors, and it takes many forms.

    This repression is taking place in a context where states are not taking adequate action on climate change. By criminalising activists, states depoliticise them. This conceals the fact these activists are ultimately right about the state of the climate and environment – and the lack of positive government action in these areas.

    Oscar Berglund is a member of the Green Party. The report this article is based on was written with Christina Pantazis, Chris Rossdale and Roxana Pessoa Cavalcanti.

    Tie Franco Brotto does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Repression of climate and environmental protest is intensifying across the world – https://theconversation.com/repression-of-climate-and-environmental-protest-is-intensifying-across-the-world-246379

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Europe’s microstates: the medieval monarchies that survive in our midst

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Elisa Bertolini, Associate Professor of Comparative Public Law, Bocconi University

    San Marino is one of four microstates with very distinct constitutional arrangements. Shutterstock/kavalenkava

    Continental Europe is home to four microstates with populations of between 30,000 and 80,000 people: Andorra, on the border between France and Spain; Liechtenstein, nestled between Switzerland and Austria; Monaco, which sits on the French Riviera; and San Marino, which is surrounded by northern Italy.

    These states have existed since the medieval period and their tiny size has enabled them to develop and maintain singular constitutional arrangements. They have all developed original solutions to the problems of state architecture, many of which survive today.

    All four of these microstates participate in the Council of Europe (Europe’s human rights organisation) and have therefore had to modernise to meet international standards of governance. This includes the independence of the judiciary.

    However, all four have also implemented these reforms without altering their institutional identity. Their commitment to preserving their distinctiveness from other countries prevents wider reform to their institutions. For them, the protection of national tradition and identity is a form of self-preservation rather than a mere expression of ideology.

    The distinctiveness of the four microstates lies in the survival of institutional arrangements that can no longer to be found practically anywhere else in the world. In the principalities of Liechtenstein and Monaco, for example, the monarchy still has a central role in the constitution.

    Unlike in most European states with a monarchy, in Liechtenstein and Monaco, the royal head of state continues to exercise meaningful power. Andorra and San Marino, meanwhile, operate under a dual head of state arrangement. They effectively have two monarchs.

    The populations of Europe’s medieval microstates.
    World Bank/ Data Commons, CC BY-ND

    Institutional arrangements in these principalities has been shaped by their diminutive size, both in terms of territory and population, and their geographical location. And these arrangements have survived since the middle ages because they have become their identity. While national tradition is an ideological debate in other nations, in these, preserving the past is a survival mechanism.

    Liechtenstein and Monaco

    Liechtenstein and Monaco are constitutional monarchies of the kind that offer substantial power to the royal family. Everything is organised around a prince, who exercises the executive power. Contemporary monarchies in the western legal tradition generally have a ceremonial king or queen but the executive power is held by an elected government. Liechtenstein and Monaco have maintained their historical organisation of government, centred on a very powerful monarch.

    Although his powers are not unlimited, in Monaco, the prince is not even accountable to the parliament for the powers he does hold. Liechtenstein’s prince enjoys even more powers, including the right to appoint half of the members of the constitutional court.

    However, the prince of Liechtenstein’s sovereign power is held in partnership with the people of Liechtenstein. The institutional architecture is built as to allow a system of checks and balances between the prince and the people.

    Since a 2003 constitutional amendment, for example, the people can table a motion of no-confidence in the prince if more than 1,500 citizens are in agreement to do so, which triggers a referendum on confidence in him. The same number of citizens can mount an initiative to abolish the monarchy entirely, should they choose to do so.

    Andorra and San Marino

    The principality of Andorra should more properly be called co-principality, because of its co-princes arrangement. One of the princes is the bishop of Urgell – from Catalonia – and the other is the president of the French Republic (and previously the French king or emperor). So another Andorran peculiarity is that neither of the princes are Andorran nationals.

    Following a 1993 reform that established a fully fledged constitution, neither prince holds sovereign power. Their present constitutional role is almost entirely ceremonial. However, concerns remain over the fact that they are not nationals of the state and that the heads of state are selected neither by the Andorran people nor by their representatives. The historical reason for a foreign head of state is the geographical location of Andorra – wedged between Catalonia and France. Allowing itself to be put under this double sovereignty was a guarantee of survival.

    San Marino also has a two-headed state but both leaders, called the Captains Regent, are Sammarinese nationals. They are elected by the Grand and General Council (the Sammarinese legislative body) and their distinctive trait is that they serve only a six-month term of office.

    The reason for such a short tenure is that San Marino has a population of just under 34,000 people. Everyone knows everyone else, which is a situation that can be detrimental to the independence of elective offices.

    Captains Regent can’t shore up enough power in their short time in office to be able to overthrow the republic. The Captains Regent were first established in 1243, shortly before a number of Italian republics were overthrown by wealthy families. One of the reasons why San Marino has been able to survive is because it has prevented one family from being more powerful than the others for centuries.

    Microstates are, therefore, not like Europe’s regular-sized states. They have distinctive institutional architectures – and often for understandable reasons.

    Elisa Bertolini does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Europe’s microstates: the medieval monarchies that survive in our midst – https://theconversation.com/europes-microstates-the-medieval-monarchies-that-survive-in-our-midst-245328

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Slavic universities discussed the development of youth policy and educational activities

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    The international congress of Russian-national (Slavic) universities on youth policy and educational activities has concluded in Moscow.

    The event was organized by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation and MIREA – Russian Technological University (the basic organization of the CIS member states for work with youth).

    The congress was held for the first time. It brought together rectors and vice-rectors of universities, heads of educational work departments, and leaders of student public associations. The participants represented the Belarusian-Russian University, the Kyrgyz-Russian Slavic University, the Russian-Armenian (Slavic) University, the Russian-Tajik (Slavic) University, and Russian partner universities – Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University and the Siberian Federal University. The SPbPU delegation included Vice-Rector for Youth Policy and Communication Technologies Maxim Pasholikov, Head of the Youth Policy Department Ivan Khlamov, Deputy Director of the SPbPU History Museum Tatyana Novitskaya, specialist of the Center for Youth Trajectories Sofia Romanova, and head of the public institute “Adapters” Elizaveta Zhak.

    At the strategic session, experts discussed existing experience, practices and projects, as well as modern challenges faced by Slavic universities in implementing youth policy and educational activities. The plenary discussion, which was held in the format of an open dialogue, was attended by Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation Olga Petrova and Deputy Head of the Presidential Administration for Cross-Border Cooperation Sergei Malenko.

    The congress also included a presentation of the educational work system and youth policy areas of RTU MIREA, a training seminar, and the opening of the All-Russian Congress on Youth Policy and Educational Activities. Participants learned about the educational work system and youth policy areas of the Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, the possibilities of including Slavic universities in the activities of student scientific societies, and projects of the Rosmolodezh ecosystem, the Russian Society “Knowledge”, and the ANO “Russia – Country of Opportunities”.

    On the final day, the experts were presented with the system of educational work and youth policy areas of RUDN named after Patrice Lumumba, the activities of the psychological service of the university using the example of MIPT, and projects of the Association of Volunteer Centers, in which Slavic universities can participate.

    Head of the Department of Assessment and Methodology of the ANO “Russia – Country of Opportunities” Alexandra Vaza noted that the Kyrgyz-Russian Slavic University became the first foreign university to begin systematic work with the presidential platform of the RSV. KRSU students received the same opportunities for self-realization as millions of young people in Russia.

    The Competence Center opened at the university has become a provider of assessment and development of “soft skills” of students and teachers. The Polytechnic University in St. Petersburg, which has unique experience of working with ambassadors and in the field of graduate employment, has been very helpful in this activity. In addition, the center has become a single entry point to the projects of the presidential platform. KRSU students are active participants in the competitions “TopBLOG”, “Profrazvitie” and “Drugoe Delo”. In 2025, work in this direction will continue, because we strive for each student to be able to realize their potential and become a sought-after specialist in the labor market, – said Alexandra Vaza.

    The final meeting was chaired by Artem Fomin, Head of the Department of International Youth Cooperation and Tourism of the Department of State Youth Policy and Educational Activities of the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia. Representatives of Slavic universities presented draft roadmaps for the further development of youth policy and educational activities in their universities in 2025-2026. Russian partners — representatives of Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University and the Siberian Federal University — presented proposals for joint projects. On behalf of MIREA — Russian Technological University, Vice-Rector Grigory Petushkov voiced proposals for cooperation.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Renewed appeal in connection with murder of Fiona Holm

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    The Met is renewing its reward of up to £20,000 for help finding the remains of a murdered woman, as her family face their second Christmas without her.

    The reward is on offer for information leading to the recovery of the remains of 48-year-old Fiona Holm.

    Fiona was last seen alive leaving a residential address in Verdant Lane, Catford, on 20 June, 2023. She was reported missing nine days later.

    Her partner, Carl Cooper, was jailed for life in July for her murder which took place in the living room of his flat in Broadfield Road, Catford. Cooper lied to Fiona’s family and police, and took extensive steps to cover up the killing. Fiona’s body has never been recovered.

    Cooper was also convicted of murdering another girlfriend, 41-year-old Naomi Hunte, who was found dead at her home in Woolwich in 2022.

    Detective Chief Inspector Kate Blackburn, who leads the investigation, said: “My team has carried out a huge amount of work to try to find Fiona, using specialist teams to search areas she was known to frequent, open spaces, bodies of water, houses, cars and lockups. Thousands of hours of CCTV has been seized and viewed, substantial mobile phone enquiries have been reviewed and hundreds of witness statements have been taken, including interviews with Fiona’s family and friends. Those efforts have continued since Cooper’s conviction.

    “This Christmas, our thoughts are with Fiona’s family, who are still waiting for answers almost two years after her tragic murder. Our thoughts are also with Naomi’s family at this difficult time.

    “I am appealing to anybody who may be able to assist the ongoing search for Fiona’s remains to come forward, no matter how insignificant you think your information could be. Perhaps now Cooper has been convicted, you feel able to come forward and tell us what you know or have heard.”

    Fiona’s family have described her as a kind and loving person, and say they are tormented by the lack of closure.

    Fiona’s daughter Savannah said: “This year is the second Christmas without my beloved mother. As the heartache still continues, the restless nights go on knowing that she has been out there this long, and no-one has come forward with any information, which I find disturbing.

    “The thought of us finding her remains is sickening to think about, but this would also bring my whole family peace.

    “My Nan has not been the same since. The only thing she worries about is where her daughter is, as she wants her to be found. Nan misses her daughter’s big heart and kind ways the most.”

    If you have any information, please contact the incident room on 020 8721 4005, or 999 if you need urgent police attendance. If you want to give your information anonymously, you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: sante-Itd.com.co: BaFin investigates Sante Limited

    Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English

    The Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) warns consumers about the company Sante Limited and the services it is offering. BaFin has information that the company is offering banking business and/or financial services on its website sante-Itd.com.co without the required authorisation. The company is not supervised by BaFin.

    Banking business and financial services may only be offered in Germany with authorisation from BaFin. However, some companies offer these services without the required authorisation. Information on whether particular companies have been authorised by BaFin can be found in BaFin’s database of companies.

    The information provided by BaFin is based on section 37 (4) of the German Banking Act (Kreditwesengesetz – KWG).

    Please be aware:

    BaFin, the German Federal Criminal Police Office (Bundeskriminalamt – BKA) and the German state criminal police offices (Landeskriminalämter) recommend that consumers seeking to invest money online should exercise the utmost caution and do the necessary research beforehand in order to identify fraud attempts at an early stage.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Five ways to beat loneliness this winter

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Dorothy Yen, Professor in Marketing and Lead on the Happy to Chat project, Brunel University of London

    Tricky_Shark/Shutterstock

    For some people, loneliness can feel overwhelming, especially during winter, but small steps toward connection can make a significant difference. Research shows that micro conversations with strangers can help improve wellbeing and reduce feelings of loneliness.

    This explains why in the UK, the new charity Happy to Chat is trying to encourage people to talk to each other when out and about. In Sweden, a similar scheme – the Say Hi campaign – was also launched in winter 2023 to promote small talks among people in their neighbourhoods.

    Most studies on the benefits of talking to strangers have focused on younger people, leaving a big question mark over how older adults experience these everyday interactions. Yet, this is a group that could stand to benefit the most. The World Health Organization estimates that one in four older adults face social isolation, which can seriously affect their health, happiness, and even how long they live.

    Our research shows that most older people in the UK have a positive attitude towards the idea of small talk when out and about. They see it as being neighbourly, an act of kindness, a way to brighten someone else’s day. Popular spots for these chats include bright, public spaces, like shopping centres, garden centres, libraries, community events, university campuses, or even while waiting for public transport.

    Feeling confident is important; it’s not just about starting a conversation or keeping it going. It’s also about feeling safe and in control. That confidence isn’t the same for everyone, though. Older women, in particular, were more concerned about potential challenges such as personal safety or dealing with an awkward or uncomfortable chat.

    A safe and secure environment can make all the difference in their choice of whether to engage in small talk when out and about. So, it is important that we all make an effort in creating a friendly environment, combating loneliness together through small and meaningful conversations. With that in mind, here are five ways to beat loneliness this winter and build those much needed connections.

    1. Join the ‘happy to chat’ movement

    A simple conversation can go a long way in making both you and others feel more connected. The “happy to chat” initiative in the UK encourages people to sit at designated benches or wear ‘happy to chat’ badges that signal their openness to friendly talks with those passing by. Our research shows that these badges work wonders as ice breakers, making it easier to strike up a conversation. Whether you’re at a park, garden centre, café, or on public transport, a little small talk can brighten your day and build a sense of community.

    2. Volunteer for a local charity

    Giving back not only benefits others but can also create a sense of purpose and connection. Many organisations seek extra hands during the winter, especially for holiday drives, food banks or programmes supporting older people. Volunteering is a great way to meet like-minded people while spreading warmth and joy.

    3. Take part in community activities

    From Christmas carol singing to craft workshops and winter walks, your local area is probably buzzing with events this season. Joining in these activities is a natural way to socialise and meet new people. Have a look at your community centre or local general practitioners notice boards. Neighbourhood gatherings or shared hobbies make connecting with others feel effortless and fun.

    4. Stay active and embrace the outdoors

    Exercise has proven mental health benefits, including reducing feelings of loneliness. Bundle up and take a brisk walk in the park, or join a local fitness class or walking group, where you can enjoy the fresh air while having small talks with others. Outdoor winter activities like ice skating may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but having a visit to seasonal markets can also provide opportunities to interact with others.

    5. Reconnect with friends and family

    The holiday season is a perfect time to reach out to loved ones or people you may have lost in touch with. But don’t forget that loneliness can be all year around. Drop a postcard to say hello, schedule a call or meet-ups, even if it’s just for a quick coffee. If you can’t meet in person, virtual gatherings can still help you feel connected and cared for.

    What is not recommended?

    Although pets can provide companionship, they require long-term commitment, time and care. Getting a pet solely to combat loneliness during the winter isn’t a good idea.

    Pets are for life, not just for the holiday season, and taking on this responsibility without careful thought can lead to challenges for both you and the animal. Instead, consider alternative ways to connect, like volunteering at an animal shelter or spending time with friends who have pets.

    Loneliness can feel overwhelming, especially during winter, but small steps toward connection can make a significant difference. By reaching out to others and engaging in your community, you can transform this season into one of warmth, companionship and joy. Sometimes, all it takes is a simple smile or a friendly conversation to turn someone’s day around – including your own.

    Christina Victor receives funding from ESRC, Dunhill Medical Trust, Wellcome Trust, Alzheimer’s Society, NIHR

    Dorothy Yen does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Five ways to beat loneliness this winter – https://theconversation.com/five-ways-to-beat-loneliness-this-winter-245630

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why there’s no such thing as normal in child development

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Samuel Forbes, Associate Professor in Psychology, Durham University

    Hasnuddin/Shutterstock

    For parents, carers and teachers, it’s often tempting to base our thinking on a child’s development around what we understand as “normal”. Much of the time we do this without thinking, describing a child as “doing well” in one subject and “behind” in another.

    Whenever we make this sort of comparison, we have some sort of mental benchmark or yardstick in our head: for example, a toddler should be able to climb on furniture by age two. Increasingly, child development researchers are arguing that the same thing happens in child development research — the study of how behaviours and abilities such as language develop.

    Many of the studies that claim to research child development either implicitly, or explicitly, claim that their findings are universal.

    There could be many reasons for this. Sometimes there’s a temptation to oversell conclusions, sometimes it might be the way findings are interpreted by readers or the media. The upshot is that what’s been found in one group of children is then taken as the standard — the yardstick against which future research is compared.

    Most of the research into how children develop comes from wealthier, western countries, in particular the US, the UK, the Netherlands, Germany and France. Chances are, if you’ve heard of milestones in child development, they were developed in one of these countries.

    This is so much so that it can be challenging to do basic research on child development in developing countries, as peers and reviewers will ask for or demand comparisons to western populations to put findings from these regions in context. Of course without realising it, these peers and reviewers have set up western children as a norm.

    Most of the existing academic research on child development comes from western countries.
    Olesia Bilkei/Shutterstock

    But is it fair to make these comparisons? One of the tricky things about researching child development is that it occurs within a cultural and social context it can’t be removed from. But this context is often messy. Differences in physical environment, parenting styles, location, climate and so on all interact to shape how children grow.

    Besides these differences, there is individual variation as well. These could be, for instance, curiosity, shyness and neurodiversity, which can all frame how a child shapes their own learning environment.

    Take for example the field of motor development in infancy – the study of
    how children learn to move. Many parents in particular might be familiar with charts showing when they can expect their child to sit, crawl, stand and run. The existence of these charts make it seem pretty universal, and often a child’s motor development is judged accordingly.

    This makes sense. Early research was preoccupied with finding out what was normal, and it makes sense to try to support children who might be at risk of falling behind. The timing and order investigated back then led to the norms and scales we still use today.

    Is something like motor development timing universal? It’s easy to imagine that it might be. When there are no physical or cognitive barriers we all learn to sit and stand, so on the surface it seems fair to say this could be.

    But it turns out that the context that children develop in plays a huge role even
    in something as seemingly universal as this. In countries and
    cultures where babies routinely receive firm massages from caregivers, such as in Jamaica, motor development is accelerated. It’s clear that a norm developed in one culture might not translate well to another.

    Beyond norms

    It’s clear to see that the problems highlighted above are not unique to motor development. In areas like language development or social development the cultural component is even more compelling.

    There is simply no way of understanding these elements of child development without also understanding the context in which they take place. Every child is developing within a context and however normal our own culture feels to us, there is no objective context-free norm that we can compare other children to. That is, to say, we should embrace the mess.

    If we think of normal child development as being something that just happens, researchers miss out on understanding the dynamics of development itself. But worse, educators and caregivers might not realise development is something we can act upon, and miss an opportunity to enact change.

    An important part of seeing child development as being intertwined with culture is that it doesn’t just mean collecting data from other cultures, but involving local communities and research perspectives. Understanding communities means listening to them, empowering them and making space for them to have a voice.

    Moving beyond a western-centric understanding of child development won’t just benefit researchers and lead to more accurate science, but hopefully benefit everyone working with children around the world.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Why there’s no such thing as normal in child development – https://theconversation.com/why-theres-no-such-thing-as-normal-in-child-development-244681

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: BTCC Exchange Celebrates OG Week 2 with Exclusive FLOKI AMA on X Spaces

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VILNIUS, Lithuania, Dec. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BTCC, one of the longest-standing cryptocurrency exchanges, recently hosted an engaging AMA (Ask Me Anything) session on X Spaces featuring FLOKI, one of the original meme coins in crypto.

    The AMA was part of BTCC’s “OG Week” campaign, where iconic long-term meme coins are spotlighted and celebrated. Pedro Vidal, Community Relations Officer for Floki and TokenFi Blockchain, joined the session to discuss FLOKI’s vision for 2024 and beyond.

    The AMA was a resounding success, with over 1,500 crypto enthusiasts tuning in to explore FLOKI’s journey, and check out some big developments landing this coming year. Anyone interested in listening back can check out the AMA here

    Highlights of the Discussion

    The AMA covered many points, and gave a deep insight into FLOKI’s history, position in the crypto market, and some exciting points for 2025:

    Topic 1 – FLOKI’s Inception

    Topic 1 covered FLOKI’s inception, and discussed how FLOKI was born from a tweet from Elon Musk in 2021. Though the coin initially suffered rug pulls from the team who initially launched the project, it has now become a community-led project.

    FLOKI is now governed by a DAO, leaving the ownership and direction of the token in the hands of the community. The DAO is important as it aligns closely with the current team’s focus on community feedback, utility and transparency, and dedication to the success of the project – and also to avoid the pitfalls from the initial launch of the coin.

    Topic 2 – FLOKIs Blockchain Gaming Platform

    Topic 2 focused on the big ticket success on FLOKI – Valhalla. The crypto household name game took the market by storm and features all the hallmarks of a global superstar – from an easy-to access, browser-based design, and global accessibility, everyone inside the FLOKI community is excited about the future of Valhalla.

    “The idea is to continue to improve and leave blockchain forever changed.”

    – Pedro Vidal, on Floki’s Valhalla Metaverse game

    Topic 3 – FLOKI Debit Card and Trading Bot

    Another hot topic on the agenda was the FLOKI debit card, which now offers crypto enthusiasts a way to spend their crypto across 8 different chains, with 0% transaction fees. The cards are available in both physical and virtual forms, which is another step toward FLOKI’s vision of a more financially enabled world, powered by memecoins.

    FLOKI have also released their Telegram trading bot, aiming to streamline the trading experience, all from inside users’ telegram accounts. The bot supports multiple chains and is live now!

    Topic 4 – 2025 and Beyond

    For 2025, Pedro emphasized the importance of staying true to the project’s values of transparency and utility, and managing and promoting growth were emphasized – however 2025 shapes up for FLOKI, the ecosystem looks set for a rapid expansion.

    FLOKI is available on BTCC for spot and futures trading. Up to 50x leverage is supported, and as one of the hottest meme coins on the platform, interest looks set to build for the coming season.

    BTCC OG Week

    To celebrate the OG meme coins that laid the foundations for the current cycle’s top gainers like DOGE, FLOKI, and PEPE, BTCC Exchange has announced the BTCC OG Week campaign, where meme fanatics can undertake social and trading tasks to win USDT rewards, with a prize pool of 300 USDT and 300 USDT in withdrawable rewards each week.

    Week 1, which saw BTC in the limelight has already concluded, and winners of the trading competition have already been announced on BTCC’s X page.

    BTCC continues its OG Week campaign with the featuring DOGE, and there’s plenty more amazing content to come.

    Going forward, BTCC have scheduled more AMAs and special features on other long-term meme coins. To stay updated on future campaigns and win exclusive rewards, follow BTCC’s X account.

    For additional information, visit BTCC’s website or follow BTCC and Floki on X.

    Media Contact Details
    Contact Name: Aaryn Ling
    Contact Email: press@btcc.com

    About BTCC

    BTCC is a long-standing crypto exchange with over 13 years experience in the crypto space, and 0 security breaches. BTCC makes crypto trading easier with user-centric features that are sure to suit the needs of novice and advanced traders alike, wherever they are in the world.

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BTCC. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/634ab0fe-7ecb-48c0-bc9d-f8c188a3fb50

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Christmas booze ban for record number of offenders

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Around 3,800 offenders either released from prison or serving a community sentence will wear an alcohol tag over Christmas and New Year.

    • Around 3,800 offenders forced to wear alcohol tags to keep streets safe over Christmas and New Year
    • Technology monitors alcohol in their sweat so offenders can’t enjoy a festive tipple
    • Tags help tackle drink-fuelled crime such as domestic abuse and drunken disorder

    A record number of offenders will be forced to stay sober this Christmas as part of the government’s Plan for Change, keeping streets safe and cutting alcohol-fuelled crime.

    Statistics published today (23 December) show around 3,800 offenders either released from prison or serving a community sentence will wear an alcohol tag over Christmas and New Year.

    The tags work around the clock and quickly detect if an offender has been drinking by analysing their sweat, meaning festive favourites such as mulled wine and prosecco will be strictly off the menu.

    If an offender dares to have a drink, an alert is sent to their probation officer who can take action to punish them, such as an order to return to court or even prison.

    Minister for Prisons, Probation and Reducing Reoffending, James Timpson, said:

    The sad reality is alcohol-fuelled crime such as domestic abuse and public disorder spikes at Christmas and has a devastating impact in our homes and town centres.

    Technology like this is playing a key role in the government’s mission to take back our streets by monitoring offenders and cutting crime.

    The tags are accurate enough to distinguish between foods that contain low-levels of alcohol – such as mince pies or Christmas pudding – and boozier drinks that could lead to offenders getting drunk.

    The technology is playing a significant role in the government’s mission to take back our streets from alcohol-fuelled harm, which costs the taxpayer billions of pounds each year. 

    Offenders who are banned from consuming alcohol by the courts have remained sober for 97% of the days they have been tagged since the technology was first rolled out in 2020.

    They monitor alcohol bans for offenders on community sentences handed down by judges or magistrates and can also be used as a licence condition for prison leavers. Roughly 20% of those supervised by probation are classified as having a drinking problem.

    These statistics come as the government is conducting a landmark review of sentencing, which will further explore the range of tougher punishments that can be served outside of prison. This will explore the technology we can use to limit the liberties of offenders in the community and support the administration of sentences outside of prison.

    Further information

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 December 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “Best in Law”: prestigious legal award ceremony held in Moscow

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    On December 19, the award ceremony for the winners of the annual HSE Faculty of Law “Best in Law” competition took place. This year, one of the main events of the country’s legal community was held in an unusual format, combining jurisprudence and art.

    Faculty of Law, National Research University Higher School of Economics

    This year’s winners of the competition include Deputy Speaker of the State Duma Boris Chernyshov (nominated for “Best Strategic Partnership”), writer Alexander Tsypkin (nominated for “Law in Art” – for creating a lyrical female image of a lawyer in the TV series “What Should a Woman Do If…”), First Vice President of Gazprombank Ekaterina Salugina-Sorokova (nominated for “Best in the Alumni Community”), retired Chairman of the Supreme Arbitration Court of the Russian Federation Anton Ivanov, as well as representatives of the teaching staff and students.

    “I have warm student memories of HSE University – it is my alma mater. We all remain a big family, so receiving such an award from the faculty is especially valuable. Developing strategic partnerships with educational institutions continues to be one of the key tasks of the state: in this way, we not only attract the best young personnel, but also strengthen the training of lawyers, and the HSE Law Faculty is the undisputed leader in the quality of education,” said Deputy Speaker of Parliament Boris Chernyshov.

    The winners and guests were treated not only to the ceremony itself, but also to excursions into the history of painting. Paintings from the collection of the Pushkin Museum, a partner of the HSE Faculty of Law, emphasized the theme of each nomination.

    The awards were presented by the Dean of the Faculty of the National Research University Higher School of Economics Vadim Vinogradov, Vice-Rectors of the HSE Irina Martusevich and Alexey Koshel, First Deputy Chairman of the Council of the Federation of the Russian Federation Andrey Yatskin, Deputy Chairman of VEB.RF Daniil Algulyan, Deputy Head of the Federal Service for Supervision in Education and Science Sergey Rukavishnikov, Managing Director of the Legal Department of Sberbank PJSC Nadezhda Tretyakova and others.

    “It is always a pleasure to reward the best, especially since the competition for the honorary title of “Best in Law” is high. Over the past few years, we have managed to build strong partnerships with representatives of government institutions, businesses, and cultural institutions at the faculty: this way, we not only enrich our own expertise, but also demonstrate in practice what impressive results can be achieved through joint work,” added Vadim Vinogradov, Dean of the HSE Faculty of Law.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: What did Yellowstone look like before it became Wonderland?

    Source: US Geological Survey

    Yellowstone Caldera Chronicles is a weekly column written by scientists and collaborators of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory. This week’s contribution is from Michael Poland, geophysicist with the U.S. Geological Survey and Scientist-in-Charge of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory.

    The Yellowstone region today is Wonderland.  It is full of spectacular geysers and colorful hot springs, home to lakes and meadows and mountains and valleys, and covered by both forests and grasslands.  What we see today is a result of volcanic activity that has shaped the landscape over the past 2 million years.

    But what did Yellowstone look like before volcanic activity blew several large holes in the region and covered huge swaths of land with thick lava and ash flows?  What was Yellowstone like before it became Wonderland?

    To understand the answer to this question, geologists have looked at the characteristics of the areas bordering the Yellowstone region—at the mountain ranges, rock types, and faults that make up areas like the Tetons and Jackson Hole, and like the Gallatins and Paradise Valley.

    Interpretive reconstruction of the Yellowstone Plateau region before initial plateau volcanism (a little before 2 million years ago). The region was entirely an elevated and faulted mountainous terrain with no basin in the present plateau area. Gray areas are underlain by ash flow deposits from calderas of the eastern Snake River Plain area that predate the Yellowstone volcanic system.  Figure 6 from Christiansen (2001) (https://pubs.usgs.gov/pp/pp729g/).

    During about 4–7  million years ago, the Yellowstone hotspot was located under southeastern Idaho, feeding eruptions occurring from the Heise volcanic field.  That sequence included multiple large calderas that formed via major explosions, spreading ash across the landscape—including Jackson Hole and the area that is now Yellowstone.

    Map of Yellowstone earthquakes that were located during 1973-2023. Red circles are earthquakes located in the Yellowstone region, and blue circles indicate swarm seismicity.  The size of the circle scales with the magnitude of the earthquake.  In the south part of Yellowstone National Park are a series of earthquake bands that trend north-northwest to south-southeast.  These alignments may reflect faults associated with mountain ranges that were destroyed when Yellowstone Caldera formed 631,000 years ago.

    The pre-volcanic Yellowstone landscape was mostly made of high-elevation areas—there was no basin present like there is today.  Instead, mountain ranges that ran mostly north-northwest to south-southeast extended across the region.  Today’s Gallatin and Madison ranges in the north were probably connected to the Tetons and other mountains to the south, forming sets of continuous ranges that were all bounded by large faults.  Fault-bounded ranges like these are common throughout the western USA today—part of the Basin and Range province, which extends from eastern California to western Wyoming and Montana.

    We can see the evidence for these formerly continuous mountain ranges in patterns of earthquakes and eruptive vents.  Seismicity maps show several north-northwest to south-southeast bands of earthquakes beneath Yellowstone Caldera, possibly delineating the still-existing faults that controlled the mountain ranges that were blown apart when large explosive eruptions began in the Yellowstone region.  There are also several roughly north-northwest to south-southeast alignments of vents for rhyolite lava flows that erupted after Yellowstone Caldera formed, especially during about 160,000 to 70,000 years ago.  Just like patterns of earthquakes, the vent alignments might also have been controlled by the preexisting faults associated with the destroyed mountain ranges.

    And because there were mountains throughout the Yellowstone region before the big explosions, erosion was an important process.  The high mountain ranges were gradually being ground down, and sediments eroded from these peaks accumulated in valleys at the bases of the ranges.  Some of these sediments still exist today, capped by thick blankets of ash from caldera-forming eruptions of the Yellowstone system.

    The first volcanic eruptions from the Yellowstone region began at least 2.2 million years ago, and the first of three great caldera-forming eruptions—that which deposited the Huckleberry Ridge Tuff—occurred 2.08 million years ago, spreading thick ash over an area larger than the state of Connecticut and dramatically altering the landscape.

    Today, many visitors to Yellowstone National Park approach the area from the north, south, or west. In driving through the mountains and valleys that lead to Wonderland, take a moment to appreciate the landscape you are traversing.  Those areas today exemplify what Yellowstone used to look like a few million years ago.

    Map of Yellowstone caldera showing the locations and ages of the most recent rhyolite eruptions at Yellowstone, the Central Plateau Member rhyolites. Unit boundaries are from Christiansen (2001). Two sets of vent alignments run north-northwest to south-southeast and might reflect underlying fault orientations associated with mountain ranges that were obliterated during the formation of Yellowstone Caldera about 631,000 years ago.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Tower Semiconductor Releases 300mm 65nm 3.3V-Based BCD Power Management Platform

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Delivering high-efficiency power, high-performance analog, and high-density digital in a single power management platform for mobile, AI, and data center applications 

    MIGDAL HAEMEK, Israel, December 23, 2024 – Tower Semiconductor (NASDAQ/TASE: TSEM), a leading foundry of high-value analog semiconductor solutions, today announced its new 300mm 65nm 3.3V-based BCD Power management platform, PML, in addition to its successful 5V-based offering already in high-volume production in Japan and that which is being qualified in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA, manufacturing site. This new, cutting-edge platform addresses the stringent low-voltage requirements of mobile devices and meets the growing demands for high power efficiency and power density in AI and data center applications.

    The advanced 300mm BCD PML offering comprises LDMOS devices with ultra-low on-resistance and best-in-class figure-of-merit, achieving highest power conversion efficiency for fast switching converters. In addition, it features power devices with wide voltage range and a nominal 3.3V gate voltage that can be substantially overdriven and underdriven addressing products such as PMIC, Audio IC, and high-power voltage regulators for GPU and CPU. These advantages enable users to achieve outstanding performance in power consumption and extend battery life in battery operated applications.

    “Our new PML platform exemplifies Tower Semiconductor’s continuous success in providing cutting-edge power management technology solutions,” said Shimon Greenberg, General Manager of Power Management Business Unit. “Specifically designed for advanced power management applications, this innovation empowers our customers to develop industry-leading products with a competitive edge that address the evolving demands of the strategic mobile, AI, and data center markets”.

    For additional information on Tower’s PM technology platform, please visit here.

    About Tower Semiconductor         

    Tower Semiconductor Ltd. (NASDAQ/TASE: TSEM), the leading foundry of high-value analog semiconductor solutions, provides technology, development, and process platforms for its customers in growing markets such as consumer, industrial, automotive, mobile, infrastructure, medical and aerospace and defense. Tower Semiconductor focuses on creating a positive and sustainable impact on the world through long-term partnerships and its advanced and innovative analog technology offering, comprised of a broad range of customizable process platforms such as SiGe, BiCMOS, mixed-signal/CMOS, RF CMOS, CMOS image sensor, non-imaging sensors, displays, integrated power management (BCD and 700V), photonics, and MEMS. Tower Semiconductor also provides world-class design enablement for a quick and accurate design cycle as well as process transfer services including development, transfer, and optimization, to IDMs and fabless companies. To provide multi-fab sourcing and extended capacity for its customers, Tower Semiconductor owns two facilities in Israel (150mm and 200mm), two in the U.S. (200mm), two in Japan (200mm and 300mm) which it owns through its 51% holdings in TPSCo, shares a 300mm facility in Agrate, Italy, with ST as well as has access to a 300mm capacity corridor in Intel’s New Mexico factory. For more information, please visit: www.towersemi.com.

    Safe Harbor Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release includes forward-looking statements, which are subject to risks and uncertainties. Actual results may vary from those projected or implied by such forward-looking statements. A complete discussion of risks and uncertainties that may affect the accuracy of forward-looking statements included in this press release or which may otherwise affect Tower’s business is included under the heading “Risk Factors” in Tower’s most recent filings on Forms 20-F and 6-K, as were filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and the Israel Securities Authority. Tower does not intend to update, and expressly disclaim any obligation to update, the information contained in this release.

    Tower Semiconductor Investor Relations Contact: Noit Levy | +972-4-604-7066 | noitle@towersemi.com
    Tower Semiconductor Company Contact: Orit Shahar | +972-74-7377440 | oritsha@towersemi.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –