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Global corruption

Corruption is, without any words, one of the biggest villains in the economy world. Unfortunately, despite the fact that it’s already 21st century, corruption still has a great impact on our world. Different studies show, that regions with developed economies, such as North America, Western Europe and Australia, have a really low rate of corruption. On the other hand, regions with emerging economy, South America, Eastern Europe and Asia, have a strikingly high level of this economic disaster. Studies also show that the average income in countries with a high level of corruption is about a third of that of countries with a low level of corruption. It is also stated that the infant mortality rate in such countries is about three times higher and the literacy rate is 25% lower. There are some key factors, which tend to show up in high-corruption-level countries. They include:high prices for low quality; inefficiently allocated resources; uneven distribution of wealth; low stimulus for innovation; shadow economy; low foreign investment and trade; poor education and healthcare.

Corruption in Ukraine in general and during the war

Ukraine, unfortunately, is one of the most corrupted countries in the world. Since the day, when Ukraine became independent, it went through a lot of good changes, but corruption remained and even grew. Frankly speaking, one of the reasons of war in Ukraine is corruption. The government was led by money and couldn’t make reasonable decisions. Talking about war, even though Ukraine is on the open battlefield and government makes lots of changes to improve the country overall and make it real for Ukraine to enter the EU, corruption refuses to vanish. There are still plenty of people in the government, who talk a lot about how we need to be honest and work for the good of our motherland but at the same time they take bribes and steal not only the money, which is given by other countries to help us win, they also have the audacity to steal humanitarian help and goods for refugees and soldiers. Ukraine has to become really serious about removing corruption if it wants to make some reasonable changes.

Personal opinion

From my point of view, world should pay more attention to corruption and how to get rid of it as soon as possible. As you see, I am really prone to write about Ukraine, as it is my homeland. It became really interesting for me to read about Ukraine’s problems and to think about the ways of solving them. Ukraine needs to kick out all corrupted pigs and really become a free country in all meanings possible.

Sources

1. https://www.investopedia.com/articles/investing/012215/how-corruption-affects-emerging-economies.asp
2. https://www.transparency.org/en/cpi/2021

Reading Time: 4 minutes

The E-VTOL air cab network will debut in France in 2024. Unlike traditional aircraft, these small vehicles can land like a helicopter on any airstrip and do not require a runway. They will be cabs made by the German company Volocopter. As part of the VoloCity service, they will fly with one passenger for the time being on routes from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Le Bourget and from Paris to Sans-Cyr. The electric flying cabs are expected to replace the old technology because they are quieter, faster and definitely cheaper to operate. However, will there be enough qualified pilots? Will it be good for the environment? Is it a safe form of travel? We will find out from the advantages and disadvantages given.

What are flying taxis all about?

Flying taxis also known as electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft are a new mode of transportation that allows passengers to travel through the air in small autonomous and electric aircraft. It is poised to transport passengers between key transportation hubs like train stations and airports. These aircraft are designed to take off and land vertically like a helicopter but fly like a plane using wings and propellers. Flying taxis can carry up to 4 passengers and travel up to 60 miles per hour. They are designed to provide a fast, convenient and environmentally friendly mode of transportation in urban areas.  

How do flying cabs work?

The flying cabins are powered by electric motors and batteries, making them environmentally friendly and quiet. Fixed wings are used to operate them. The aircraft takes off and lands vertically using a series of rotor propellers. In the air, the aircraft transitions to fixed-wing flight, using wings to provide lift and propellers to propel it forward. The aircraft is designed for autonomous flight using advanced sensors and software to safely navigate through the air.

What are the benefits of flying cabs?

• provide a fast and efficient means of transportation 
• they reduce travel time and traffic jams on the roads
• they are environmentally friendly, using electricity and emitting no exhaust fumes 
• significantly reduce noise pollution in urban areas
• offer a new level of convenience and flexibility, allowing passengers to travel directly to their destination without having to use the runway.  

What are the downsides of flying cabs? 

• Tech and cost challenges – each of eVTOLs will cost an estimated $2.5 million and have an eight-year lifespan. The operating costs of piloted air cabs, along with the costs of maintaining their full life cycle, could exceed the price operators could charge for the service. This means that few people will be willing to pay such a large amount of money for an admittedly fairly short ride. In addition, there will be a need for special production of the parts needed to create flying cabs, which are not normally available on the aviation market 
• Safety issues – VTOLs don’t have a reliable means of passively generating lift in the event of a power system failure. And some eVTOLs rely exclusively on powered lift systems, meaning that if a software or hardware failure disables the entire power system, the vehicle would no longer be able to generate any lift. 
• Regulatory approval – many countries don’t have yet regulations in place for flying taxis
• Infrastructure required including charging stations, landing pats and air traffic control system 
• Public acceptance – many people may be hesitant to fly in autonomus aircraft 

Conclusion 

Flying cabs are a huge breakthrough in technology and transportation. Manufacturers assure us that this type of transportation can bring us many benefits such as reduced traffic jams on the streets and reduced noise especially in city centers. It is also a friendly form of transportation for our environment. The problem, however, is the extremely high cost of producing such a machine, which is associated with the high cost of the service fee. Most people will not be able to afford or will not want to spend so much money on this type of transportation, especially when there are cheaper options such as the subway. An additional factor influencing people’s reluctance to use this form of transport is the fear of maintaining safety. Such machines are not as strongly built as, for example, airplanes, which will not make it easier for them to travel in difficult weather conditions. Therefore, in my opinion, this is a very interesting option for the development of today’s transport, but I believe that it is unprofitable and unfavorable due to the large number of disadvantages and dangers.

REFERENCES:

https://insights.globalspec.com/article/18347/these-are-the-challenges-facing-air-taxis

https://www.bbc.com/news/business-66252187

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jun/24/your-electric-flying-taxi-is-just-around-the-corner

https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-next-normal/air-taxis

https://www.volocopter.com/en/solutions/volocity

Chat GPT

Reading Time: 2 minutes

“Seamless access to text, voice, and data for LTE phones across the globe”

SpaceX has launched a new website dedicated to promoting its upcoming Starlink service for mobile phones. Their tagline is “Seamless access to text, voice, and data for LTE phones across the globe” [1]. The system will tap the growing Starlink satellite network in Earth’s orbit to beam cellular connectivity to unmodified smartphones. Future Starlink satellites will be outfitted with an “advanced eNodeB modem.” Thanks to this invention, a Starlink satellite will basically become a “cellphone tower in space,” allowing for network integration like a typical roaming partner [2].

According to the new website, SpaceX plans to debut the service that will power text messaging via satellites in 2024, with plans to expand to voice and text support in 2025. Additionally, the service will offer cellular connectivity to IoT devices in 2025. It will work with existing LTE phones without the need for any hardware, firmware changes, or special apps. It promises seamless access to text, voice, and data [3].

Approval from the Federal Communications Commission

However, in order to do that SpaceX must first obtain approval from the Federal Communications Commission before its services will become public. The company has been pleading with the US government to grant their request to utilize the required radio channels as soon as possible.

Partnership with T-Mobile?

On the other hand, it is important to notice that a year ago, SpaceX was originally hoping to launch a service with T-Mobile [4], but the companies have been silent about the deal since its announcement.

SpaceTech is growing

In recent years, satellite connection for smartphones has become more and more popular. In an emergency, iPhone 14 models and above may transmit a limited number of messages and position data via satellite thanks to a function Apple implemented to its phones last year. The first satellite call over 5G was made last month from a smartphone that wasn’t altered, according to AT&T-backed AST SpaceMobile [5].

In my opinion, in 2019 Elon Musk and his SpaceX started a SpaceTech revolution in the private sector and showed companies that they were able to enter this industry. What is more interesting after 4 years he is still leading the innovation in the industry.

1. https://www.starlink.com/
2. https://www.tesmanian.com/blogs/tesmanian-blog/direct-to-cell
3. https://www.pcmag.com/news/spacex-debuts-new-website-for-cellular-starlink-service
4. https://www.pcmag.com/news/t-mobile-to-expand-coverage-with-the-help-of-spacexs-starlink-satellites
5. https://www.theverge.com/2023/10/12/23914081/spacex-starlink-direct-to-cell-satellite-internet-lte-connectivity

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Introduction

According to FICO, in Poland, fraud levels have increased by over 300%, posted as the fourth-highest loss percentage increase in Europe in 2021. In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, the digital realm has revolutionized the way we live, work, and connect. These digital platforms have brought us great convenience and opportunities, whether it is connecting with your loved ones or dealing with everyday responsibilities. While technology has enriched our lives in countless ways, it simultaneously offers fertile ground for individuals with malicious intent. These criminals have gained an upper hand in deceiving anyone into their trickery through their sophisticated tactics.

Types of Technology-Enabled Scams:

•          Online phishing attacks

•          Email and social engineering scams

•          Online shopping fraud

•          Identity theft

•          Cryptocurrency scams

What enables fraud to be carried out efficiently:

Social Engineering: Scammers would employ multiple persuasive and cognitive bias techniques. They can make you feel overwhelmed and unable to process your thoughts coherently and with a little bit of pushing you would just fall into their demands. This emotional factor is the foundation of falling prey to a scam.

Digital Identity App

In Singapore, they have an identity app called “Singpass” which could substitute our ID for official purposes. It provided its residents with great convenience as we were able to open bank accounts and settle governmental-level administrative stuff through this app. This had certainly improved efficiency on administrative matters but at what cost?

Scammers were able to convince their victims to hand over their accounts through emotional manipulation. With access to this app, they were able to access banking functions that enabled their fraudulent activities to be untraceable. They will launder money to one victim’s account and another and the cycle goes on. In case you are wondering, there are security measures in place but sometimes victims themselves willingly give their One-Time passwords away usually after some emotional manipulation.

Links: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/singpass-account-8000-launder-220000-scam-victims-court-3825921

E-wallet:

A digital wallet facilitates seamless financial transactions via a mobile device. The integration of digital wallets has been transformative. Personally, I love it! I do not have to deal with exorbitant bank transfer rates or unideal exchange rates at the money changer when travelling to another country. However,  it is a double-edged sword as now users are prone to phishing sites, malware that could steal your payment information Wi-Fi-snooping etc. This is one of the platforms where victims could set up an account easily and money to be transferred to the fraudulent party instantly. It is impossible to cancel it, leaving victims at a loss.

Links: https://news.yahoo.com/posts-target-indonesia-digital-payment-091427637.html

Which party should be responsible?

No one wishes to fall prey to scams, but what happens if you do? Recently, the Singapore government entities have proposed that financial institutions and telecommunication providers should share the responsibility for phishing scam losses. Although, it is still in its initial stages. I think it is a good strategy for organisations to take responsibility to a certain extent.

Link: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/financial-institutions-telcos-share-liability-consumers-scam-losses-mas-framework-3871356

Conclusion

These risks are inevitable when living in a world that relies on the Internet of Things so readily. Individuals, governments and organisations should be wary and alert of the consequences of enjoying such convenience. As technology advances, so do cybercriminal tactics. Safety in the digital world is a shared responsibility. Balancing convenience with security requires constant vigilance and collaboration among individuals, organizations, and governments

ChatGPT 3.5:  “What kind of sub-topics can I write for How technology empowers fraudulent schemes?”

Links: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/why-even-young-savvy-well-educated-fall-scams-stephen-le-hoang-chuong#:~:text=Scammers%20are%20successful%20because%20they,an%20effective%20and%20common%20one.

A Guide for Foreigners to setting up a Singpass account

Digital Wallet Fraud – What is it and how it’s prevented

Financial Institutions to Bear Full Losses in Phishing Scams: A Paradigm Shift in Accountability

https://www.fico.com/europeanfraud/poland

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Self-driving cars have been a recurring topic for many years. They hold the potential to revolutionize the entire automotive industry and create numerous new business opportunities. The concept is simple: create a car that doesn’t require a human driver. However, this innovation also comes with various risks and challenges. The question that remains is whether this idea will become a part of our daily lives.

What are autonomous vehicles?

Autonomous vehicles, or self-driving cars, rely on sensors, AI, and control systems to navigate without human intervention. These sensors collect data about the vehicle’s surroundings, and AI processes it to make navigation decisions, while control systems manage driving actions. Communication capabilities enhance safety and traffic flow. Autonomous vehicles vary in levels of autonomy, from basic assistance to full automation, aiming to improve safety, traffic, and accessibility.

Industries Embracing Self-Driving Cars

• Transportation services: Companies like Uber are investing in self-driving cars to reduce costs and efficiency.
• Public Transportation: Autonomous buses could revolutionize current and make transportation services more efficient and safer.
• Delivery services: Big companies like Amazon are exploring and testing new ways to reduce time and cost of delivery by autonomous vehicles.

Benefits of Self-Driving Cars

• Enhanced Safety: Self-driving cars have the potential to significantly reduce accidents caused by human error, such as distracted driving, drunk driving, and speeding. This could lead to a safer road environment.
• Increased Mobility: Self-driving cars can provide transportation solutions for those who are unable to drive due to age, disability, or other factors. This can enhance the mobility and independence of various demographic groups.
• Environmental Benefits: By optimizing driving patterns and potentially using electric power, self-driving cars can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to a more sustainable transportation system.
• Improved Efficiency: Autonomous vehicles can lead to more efficient use of road infrastructure, as they can drive closer together, thus potentially reducing the need for road expansion.
• Productivity and Comfort: Passengers in self-driving cars can use travel time more productively, working or relaxing during their commutes.

Concerns and possible dangers

• Safety Concerns: While autonomous technology holds the promise of increased safety, it is not flawless. High-profile accidents involving self-driving cars have raised concerns about their reliability, especially in complex and unpredictable driving scenarios.
• Job Displacement: The widespread adoption of self-driving cars could have a significant impact on the job market. Drivers in industries like trucking and ridesharing may face unemployment as automation takes over.
• Ethical Dilemmas: Self-driving cars may face situations where they must make ethical decisions, such as choosing between protecting the passengers or pedestrians in the event of an impending accident. Resolving these moral dilemmas is a significant challenge.
• Infrastructure and Technological Challenges: Self-driving cars rely on robust infrastructure and technology. Many regions may face difficulties in upgrading roads, implementing required sensors, and ensuring connectivity for a safe autonomous driving environment.

In summary, autonomous cars have a huge potential in the future industry and bring positive things like improved safety and efficiency. However, this is just in theory. Companies claim that self-driving cars are safe and road ready. I don’t agree with that, I think that with how things are looking right now the technology is not advanced and tested enough for it to be ready. Recent accidents involving driverless cars support my point of view. Nevertheless, this is an amazing idea it just requires more time and improvement.

To read more about the topic and recent events be sure to visit these articles:

https://www.techtarget.com/searchenterpriseai/definition/driverless-car

https://edition.cnn.com/2023/10/24/business/california-dmv-cruise-permit-revoke/index.html

https://www.wired.com/story/a-sneaky-shortcut-to-driverless-cars/

https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-67133409

Sources:

https://innovationatwork.ieee.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/iStock-829197466-1024×683.jpg

https://news.mit.edu/2023/autonomous-innovations-uncertain-world-jonathan-how-0830

AI:

ChatGPT 3.5

Prompts used:

“Risks and benefits of self-driving cars”

“Explain what an autonomous vehicle is and how it works”.

Reading Time: 3 minutes

The Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) revolution is significantly altering our everyday lives in a multitude of ways. These technologies have evolved dramatically, thanks to enhanced hardware and software capabilities, providing immersive experiences across various domains. From the transformation of the gaming industry to the innovative use of AR and VR in training, education, remote work, healthcare, and more, these technologies are influencing our lives in countless ways.

However, as AR and VR continue to advance, they bring along a set of challenges and risks that need careful consideration:

Opportunities and Advancements:

1. Technological Advancements: AR and VR technologies have made great strides, thanks to improved hardware and software capabilities, making them more accessible for a wide range of applications.

2. Enhanced Immersion: AR and VR can transport users to different worlds or overlay digital information onto the real world, creating highly engaging and enjoyable experiences.

3. Gaming Revolution: VR, in particular, offers unparalleled immersion and interactivity, providing players with the sensation of being inside the game environment, fostering excitement and escapism.

4. Training and Education Transformation: AR and VR have the potential to revolutionize training and education, offering invaluable practical experiences in professions like healthcare, aviation, and engineering.

5. Remote Work and Collaboration: The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of AR and VR technologies for remote work, enabling virtual meetings, collaborative workspaces, and immersive teamwork experiences.

6. Enhanced Customer Experiences: Businesses are using AR and VR to improve customer interactions, allowing virtual product trials and immersive demonstrations.

7. Healthcare and Therapy: The medical field is leveraging AR and VR for medical training, therapy, and surgical planning, enhancing healthcare outcomes.

8. Architectural and Engineering Applications: AR and VR are essential for architecture and engineering, allowing professionals to visualize and interact with 3D designs.

9. Entertainment and Sports: AR and VR are being adopted in live events, sports, and entertainment, offering unique experiences to fans and viewers.

10. Marketing and Retail: AR and VR are transforming marketing and retail, providing immersive and interactive experiences to shoppers, enhancing product visualization and shopping experiences.

Challenges and Risks:

1. Health Concerns: Prolonged use of VR headsets can lead to discomfort, motion sickness, and eye strain, with potential psychological health issues.

2. Privacy and Data Security: AR and VR devices collect extensive personal data, raising privacy concerns and data security issues.

3. Accessibility Issues: The high cost of AR and VR hardware can create a digital divide, excluding those with lower incomes and presenting accessibility challenges.

4. Content Quality and Ethical Issues: AR may facilitate misinformation, and VR can lead to addictive experiences.

5. Legal and Ethical Issues: AR can complicate liability issues and intellectual property disputes.

6. Social Isolation: Prolonged VR use can result in social isolation and hinder the development of real-world social skills.

7. Safety Concerns: VR immersion may compromise awareness of physical surroundings, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries.

8. Regulatory Challenges: Rapid development has outpaced regulatory frameworks, creating difficulties in addressing potential risks and setting safety standards.

9. Dependence and Addiction: The addictive nature of certain VR experiences can negatively impact daily life.

10. Content Censorship and Control: Centralized control raises concerns about censorship.

As these technologies continue to advance, it’s essential to address these risks through technological safeguards, industry standards, user education, and responsible development practices. Balancing the potential benefits with these risks is crucial as we navigate the ongoing evolution of AR and VR technologies, ensuring that they can be safely and ethically integrated into society.

Articles worth your time:

1. https://elearningindustry.com/ar-vr-technologies-in-elearning-opportunities-challenges-and-future-possibilities
2. https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2021/06/18/5-problems-and-solutions-of-adopting-extended-reality-technologies-like-vr-and-ar/amp/
3. https://www.jabil.com/blog/future-of-augmented-and-virtual-reality-technology.html
4. https://www.ediiie.com/blog/careers-in-ar-vr/
5. https://www.ludenso.com/blog/demystifying-ar-in-publishing-embracing-the-ar-revolution

Made with: ChatGPT

Key prompts:

Prompt 1: explain why using AR (Augmented Reality) and VR (Virtual Reality) technologies for gaming, training, and immersive experiences is a current trend in technology and why it plays such a big role 

Prompt 2: show the risks associated with the development of this technology

Reading Time: 3 minutes

The impact of AI and automation on employment is a topic of ongoing debate among experts and economists. AI has the potential to automate certain tasks and roles, which can lead to job displacement in some industries. However, it’s important to understand several key points:

1. Job Displacement vs. Job Transformation: AI is more likely to automate specific tasks within jobs rather than entire occupations. While certain tasks may be automated, new tasks and job roles may emerge as a result of AI implementation. This can lead to job transformation rather than complete job loss.
2. AI Augmentation: AI can also complement human workers, making them more efficient and effective in their roles. Many organizations are using AI to enhance productivity, decision-making, and customer service, rather than replacing human workers.
3. New Job Creation: Historically, technological advancements have led to the creation of new industries and job opportunities. While AI might displace some jobs, it can also lead to the creation of new positions in areas like AI development, data analysis, and AI system maintenance.
4. Skill Shift: AI adoption often requires workers to acquire new skills to operate and oversee AI systems. Employees who adapt and develop the necessary skills may remain in demand in the job market.
5. AI in Specific Industries: The impact of AI on jobs varies by industry. Some sectors, such as manufacturing and retail, may see more significant automation effects, while others, like healthcare and education, may experience less immediate disruption.
6. Ethical and Regulatory Considerations: The adoption of AI in the workplace is subject to ethical, legal, and regulatory considerations. There may be limits on how extensively AI can replace human workers in certain roles. 

Is there one answer to the question whether AI will take over people’s jobs?

No, there isn’t a single, universally applicable answer to the question of whether AI will take over people’s jobs. The impact of AI on employment is a complex and multifaceted issue that depends on various factors, including the industry, the specific job roles, and how individuals and organizations adapt to technological changes.

The impact of AI on jobs can vary widely. In some cases, AI can automate routine and repetitive tasks, leading to job displacement in certain industries. In other instances, AI can enhance job roles, improve productivity, and create new opportunities for human workers.

1. Nature of the Work: Jobs that involve routine, repetitive, or rule-based tasks are more susceptible to automation, while jobs that require creativity, empathy, complex decision-making, and human interaction are less likely to be fully automated.
2. Industry: Some industries are more AI-intensive and automation-prone than others. For example, manufacturing and certain administrative roles have seen more automation, while healthcare, education, and creative fields may be less impacted.
3. Adaptation and Skill Development: Individuals and organizations can adapt to the changing job landscape by acquiring new skills, reskilling, and upskilling. This can help mitigate the impact of AI on jobs.
4. Regulatory and Ethical Factors: Government policies and ethical considerations can influence how AI is integrated into the workforce. Regulations and ethical guidelines can impact the extent to which AI replaces or assists human workers.
5. Economic and Business Factors: Economic conditions, market demand, and business strategies can also shape the impact of AI on jobs. Companies may choose to automate certain tasks to reduce costs or increase efficiency.
6. Societal and Cultural Factors: Societal attitudes toward AI and technology can also influence the adoption and impact of AI in the workforce.

Given the complexity of this issue, it’s important to recognize that while AI will bring changes to the job market, it is not a uniform process, and the effects will vary from one job or sector to another. In many cases, it is not a question of AI “taking over” jobs but rather transforming them. Therefore, discussions about the impact of AI on jobs should be nuanced and consider the specific context and industry in question.

Conclusion:

In summary, while AI has the potential to automate certain tasks and change the nature of work, it is unlikely to take “most” people’s jobs. The impact of AI on employment will depend on various factors, including the industry, the rate of AI adoption, and the ability of the workforce to adapt to new skills and roles. It is crucial for governments, businesses, and individuals to plan for and manage the impact of AI on the labor market to ensure a smooth transition and job stability.

Articles worth reading:

https://decrypt.co/resources/will-artificial-intelligence-take-over-your-job-decryptu

https://www.forbes.com/sites/brianbushard/2023/07/11/will-ai-take-your-job-27-of-jobs-in-wealthy-countries-at-high-risk-report-says/?sh=526308211113

 

Sources:

https://therecursive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/ai_future_of_work.png

https://chat.openai.com/

https://images.app.goo.gl/jnKtqVYiSYPDNL2w7

https://decrypt.co/resources/will-artificial-intelligence-take-over-your-job-decryptu

https://www.forbes.com/sites/brianbushard/2023/07/11/will-ai-take-your-job-27-of-jobs-in-wealthy-countries-at-high-risk-report-says/?sh=526308211113