IT SPARC Cast - September 27 2024: Old-School Linux, AI Monetization, and Unpatched Linux Exploits

Brief Description:

In this week’s episode, John and Lou dive into the latest IT news with a nostalgic look at Linux running on a 1971 Intel processor, Cloudflare’s new AI bot marketplace, and an alarming unpatched vulnerability in the Linux kernel. They explore the implications of these stories for the enterprise, including hybrid work concerns, the evolving landscape of enterprise security, and key strategies for navigating IT challenges. Lou delivers a hot take on the future of remote work, and John addresses how enterprise IT can better adapt to changing workplace dynamics.

Episode Sections:

News Bytes

•Linux on Intel 4004 Processor: A tech enthusiast boots Linux on a vintage Intel 4004.

•Necro Trojan on Google Play: The Necro Trojan malware has infected millions of devices via the Google Play Store, posing a threat to enterprise networks through sideloading apps.

•Cloudflare’s AI Marketplace: Cloudflare introduces a marketplace allowing websites to charge AI bots for scraping data. This could open revenue streams for content-heavy enterprises.

•Smartsheet Goes Private: Smartsheet is set to go private in an $8.4 billion deal, reflecting a strategic pivot aimed at long-term growth.

CVE of the Week

•Unpatched Linux Exploit: A severe vulnerability (severity score of 9.9) affecting all modern Linux systems has been discovered, allowing full unauthenticated remote access. With no fix yet available, this exploit could have major implications for IoT devices and enterprise infrastructure.

Lou’s Hot Take

•Remote Work Backlash: Lou takes on the growing trend of companies, including Amazon, forcing employees back into the office. He explores the potential long-term consequences for retention, productivity, and employee satisfaction.

Wrap Up

•Format Feedback: John and Lou ask listeners for feedback on possibly breaking the show into shorter, more focused segments. They discuss upcoming tweaks to the show format based on listener suggestions.

Links:

•Linux Intel 4004 boot kit - https://www.tomshardware.com/pc-components/cpus/linux-takes-476-days-to-boot-on-an-ancient-intel-4004-cpu-cpu-precedes-the-os-by-20-years 

•Necro Trojan - https://www.securityweek.com/necro-trojan-infects-google-play-apps-with-millions-of-downloads/ 

•Cloudflare’s AI marketplace - https://techcrunch.com/2024/09/23/cloudflares-new-marketplace-will-let-websites-charge-ai-bots-for-scraping/

•Smartsheet’s $8.4 billion acquisition - https://www.geekwire.com/2024/smartsheet-acquisition-competing-bids-unlikely-8-4b-deal-could-fuel-other-private-equity-buyouts/

•Computer World article on Amazon’s return to office policy - https://www.computerworld.com/article/3532158/amazons-rto-mandate-likely-to-boomerang-other-companies-should-not-follow-suit.html

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