Technology

McQuiston: What Is A Smart Alarm System And Should I Consider One?

By ALLEN MCQUISTON
Jemez Insurance Agency
Serving Los Alamos Since 1963

As recently as 10 years ago, consumers did not have access to technology that let them manage their own home security systems. Smart alarm systems changed that. Originally, traditional security systems were hardwired into the home and monitored by a central station, usually a home alarm company. The customer paid monthly fees.

Fast forward and today, consumers have smartphones, home networks and wireless technology—all of which the smart alarm system can utilize. People can buy door sensors to detect if someone is outside Read More

Using AI To Develop Enhanced Cybersecurity Measures

A new, innovative method using AI is paving the way for enhanced cybersecurity measures. By Maksim Eren/image created in DALL-E

LANL News:

A research team at Los Alamos National Laboratory is using artificial intelligence to address several critical shortcomings in large-scale malware analysis, making significant advancements in the classification of Microsoft Windows malware and paving the way for enhanced cybersecurity measures.

Using their approach, the team set a new world record in classifying malware families.

“Artificial intelligence methods developed for cyber-defense Read More

DOE Announces More Than $17 Million For Three Projects As Part Of Biden’s Investing In America Agenda

U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm

DOE News:

WASHINGTON, D.C. — As part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced today more than $17 million for three projects that will support the design and construction of facilities that produce rare earth elements and other critical minerals and materials from coal-based resources.

The projects, funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, may strengthen domestic supply chains, helping to meet the growing demand for critical minerals and materials and reduce reliance on unreliable Read More

National Museum Of Nuclear Science & History To Celebrate 26th Annual Einstein Gala

Student demonstrations. Courtesy/The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History

2023 National Award recipient Maria Korsnick. Courtesy/The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History

NMNHS News:

ALBUQUERQUE — The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History (NMNHS) will host the 26th Annual Einstein Gala, New Mexico’s biggest science party of the year, at 5 p.m. Saturday, March 16, 2024, at Sandia Resort and Casino.

All proceeds from the museum’s Einstein Gala fundraising event will help support the Museum’s STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) Read More

New Mexico House of Representatives Passes Bill To Require Identification Of AI-Generated Campaign Materials

Majority Leader Gail Chasey

NMDP News:

SANTA FE — Monday night, the New Mexico House of Representatives passed HB 182 by a vote of 38-28, which would improve transparency and regulate the use of artificial intelligence in election campaigns. 

House Bill 182 would require a disclaimer for materially-deceptive media generated by artificial intelligence (AI), often referred to as a “deep fake”  when it is used in campaign or election-related material.

The notice must be clearly and conspicuously displayed to indicate any manipulated media used in web, print, radio, or televised political Read More

Catch Of The Week: 3 Million ‘Hacked’ Toothbrushes?

By BECKY RUTHERFORD
Los Alamos
For the Los Alamos Daily Post

Who knew the internet might contain false information?? Lessons learned last week after false reports that 3 million smart toothbrushes were compromised and used in a DDoS attack went viral!

The story of 3 million “hacked” smart toothbrushes used in a DDoS attack quickly went viral last week, only to be proven false.

What is a DDoS attack? DDoS Attack stands for “Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) Attack” and it is a cyber attack in which the attacker floods a server with internet traffic to stop users from accessing online services Read More

Keeping Children Safe From Negative Online Experiences

CONNECT New Mexico News:

SANTA FE — In recognition of Safer Internet Day on Feb. 6, Common Sense Media is raising awareness about the challenges and opportunities children face on social media platforms.

The organization’s new research report, based on interviews with girls using popular social media platforms, sheds light on their experiences and provides valuable insights for parents and caregivers.

As a parent or caregiver, understanding the impact of social media on girls’ mental health is crucial. Common Sense Media’s report emphasizes the need for open conversations and proactive

Read More

Luján, Kelly Support FCC Ruling To Enforce Regulations To Prevent Robocalls

U.S. Sen. Ben Ray Luján

U.S. SENATE News:

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) wrote a letter to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel in support of the proposed Declaratory Ruling acknowledging telemarketing calls (robocalls) violate the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA).

The TCPA places restrictions on unsolicited advertisements, autodialers, and prerecorded or artificial voice messages.

In their letter, the Senators encourage the Commission to move ahead with the Declaratory Ruling to ensure Read More

Students Speak Up At 2024 STEAM Day At The Legislature

LANL Foundation News:

SANTA FE — Hundreds of students flocked to the Roundhouse Thursday to advocate for STEAM education across New Mexico at this year’s STEAM Day at the Legislature, hosted by LANL Foundation.

STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education is a vital part of getting our state ready for the future. Every student in New Mexico should have access to STEAM education so they can developthe knowledge, skills, and practices demanded by the 21st Century.

Student speakers joined legislators Rep. Susan Herrera, Rep. Joseph Sanchez, and Sen. Leo Jaramillo Read More

Martinez: National Identity Theft Awareness Week

By LIDDE MARTINEZ
President, Los Alamos Region
Enterprise Bank & Trust, Member FDIC

This week is National Identity Theft Awareness week. Millions of consumers’ personal information is stolen each year, especially during tax season, according to the U.S. Department of Treasury. Thankfully, there are simple steps that can help protect you and your finances from scammers. 

A very common form of tax identity theft is when someone files a fraudulent tax return using personal information, like a Social Security number, to get a tax refund. Once tax identity thieves have your personal information, Read More