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Malware Disguised as Billie Eilish Attacks UAE Users

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Cybercriminals are actively abusing the names of artists and songs nominated for a Grammy 2020 award, in order to spread malware. Kaspersky protection technologies detected a 39% rise in attacks (attempts to download or run malicious files) under the guise of nominees’ work in 2019, compared to 2018. Ariana Grande, Taylor Swift, and Post Malone were attackers’ favorites, with these nominees’ names used most often in 2019 as a disguise for malware.

Music has universal appeal – it is not just entertainment, but a form of therapy and education, as well as providing an atmosphere and message platform. Its popularity and widespread availability is the reason why, even in the age of streaming services, music is not free from the malicious activity: criminals use popular artists’ names to spread malware hidden in music tracks or video clips.

In light of the biggest music awards of the year, to show the extent of the problem, Kaspersky researchers analyzed Grammy 2020 nominated artists’ names and song titles for malware1. As a result, Kaspersky found 30,982 malicious files that used the names of artists or their tracks in order to spread malware, with 41,096 Kaspersky product users having encountered them. Analysis of the nominated artists showed that the names of Ariana Grande, Taylor Swift and Post Malone were used most to disguise malicious files, with over half (55%) of detected malicious files named after them.

Unique malicious files using selected Grammy nominees’ names detected by Kaspersky products The connection between the rise in popularity and malicious activity is very evident in the case of newer artists such as Billie Eilish. The teenage singer became hugely popular in 2019, and the number of users who downloaded malicious files with her name has risen almost tenfold compared to 2018 – from 254 to 2171, the number of unique distributed malicious files – from 221 to 1,556.

For instance, while the number of users attacked by Malware disguised as Billie Eilish songs in The United Arab Emirates accounted for only 139 in 2018, 2019 saw this number increased to 31,782. Overall, United Arab Emirates saw 61 of such malicious files distributed in this region in 2019, with 100,961 attacks. However, while nomination for a prestigious award and recognition connected to it affects users’ interest in specific artists and, as a result, a growth in malicious activity, this is not necessarily the case for more established artists such as Lady Gaga, whose name use also experienced a rise in attacks in the past year.

Kaspersky also analyzed which records and songs, nominated for a Grammy in 2019, received the most attention from cybercriminals. Post Malone’s ‘Sunflower’, Khalid’s ‘Talk’ and Lil Nas X’s ‘Old Town Road’, led the way for songs with the most malware attacks. “Cybercriminals understand what is popular and always strive to capitalize on that. Music, alongside TV shows, is one of the most popular types of entertainment and, as a result, an attractive means to spread malware, which criminals readily use. However, as we see more and more users subscribe to streaming platforms, which do not require file download in order to listen to music, we expect that malicious activity related to this type of content will decrease,” comments Anton Ivanov, Kaspersky’s security analyst.

To avoid falling victim to malicious programs pretending to be popular music files, Kaspersky recommends taking the following steps:

  • If you want to listen or download famous artists’ songs, use reputable services like Apple Music, Spotify Premium, and Amazon Music. Or try to find a recognized free music site that allows you to download songs legally.
  • Try to avoid suspicious links, promising exclusive music content. Check musicians’ official social media accounts or read reputable music blogs like Pitchfork, to make sure that such content exists.
  • Look at the downloaded file extension. Even if you are going to download an audio or video file from a source you consider trusted and legitimate, the file should have an mp3, .avi, .mkv or .mp4 extension among other music and video formats, definitely not .exe or .lnk.
  • Use a reliable security solution for comprehensive protection from a wide range of threats.
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Apple’s Beats Unveils Powerbeats Pro 2 with Heart-Rate Monitoring

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Apple Inc.’s Beats division has unveiled the long-awaited Powerbeats Pro 2, which features noise cancellation, a heart-rate monitor, and a revamped design aimed at athletes. This new model incorporates capabilities seen in Apple’s AirPods, such as transparency mode for better external noise awareness and the H2 chip for enhanced sound quality. Additionally, it offers improved spatial audio for a 3D listening experience and comes with a smaller, wireless charging case.

The heart-rate monitor is a notable first for Apple-designed earbuds, expanding the company’s health-related features, and utilizes technology found in the Apple Watch. Despite a slow holiday season for Apple’s wearables business—with sales in the division falling nearly 2% to about $11.8 billion—the introduction of these new earbuds is anticipated to drive interest and sales.

Priced at $250, the same as the previous model, the new Powerbeats Pro 2 will be available in black, orange, purple, and a color called quicksand. This price point matches the AirPods Pro 2, although the Powerbeats may be more appealing to athletes due to their secure ear hooks.

Apple Vice President Oliver Schusser, who oversees Beats as well as the company’s sports, TV+, and music initiatives, hailed the new Powerbeats as “the most impressive product in Beats’ history.” Acquired by Apple in 2014 for $3 billion, Beats remains the company’s largest acquisition to date.

The heart-rate monitor will be compatible with fitness apps like Peloton, Nike Run Club, Ladder, and Slopes, with data integration into the Apple Health app. The earbuds will also be compatible with Android devices. Apple is reportedly working on AirPods with heart-rate monitoring, though they are still many months away from release.

In terms of battery life, the Powerbeats Pro 2 holds an advantage over AirPods, with 10 hours of usage on their own and 45 hours with the charging case, compared to six hours for AirPods alone and up to 30 hours with the case. However, AirPods continue to offer unique features, such as a new hearing aid functionality.

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Huawei to Launch HUAWEI Mate XT Tri-Fold Smartphone Globally in Kuala Lumpur

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HUAWEI is set to debut the Mate XT, the first commercial tri-fold smartphone, globally in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on February 18, 2025. Previously available only in China, this innovation combines a tablet-sized screen with a smartphone form factor, potentially creating a new category of handheld devices. The Mate XT offers single, dual, and triple-screen modes, enhancing productivity and leisure.

At the same event, Huawei is expected to unveil the HUAWEI MatePad Pro 13.2”, featuring a complete office suite and detachable HUAWEI Smart Magnetic Keyboard, aimed at setting a new standard for tablet productivity. The launch may also include the HUAWEI Band 10 and HUAWEI FreeArc, a new open-ear earbud with an earhook design.

With these new releases, Huawei aims to revolutionize consumer gadgets, integrating digital and real-world experiences. The event promises to showcase groundbreaking devices and mark a significant step in tech innovation.

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Gadgets

Dyson Launches Special Edition Red Velvet and Gold Haircare Range

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Dyson has launched a new colourway for its iconic haircare products: Red Velvet and Gold. This luxurious design perfectly marries sophistication with innovation, making it the ultimate gift for your loved ones this Valentine’s Day and beyond. When it comes to engineering products, Dyson doesn’t choose between style and substance, it delivers both. This special edition draws on velvet textures and ceramic finishes, to create a signature richness and saturation, which makes it every bit delicious as it sounds.

Red velvet is a timeless colour for all ages and hair types, according to celebrity stylists. Whilst it’s set to be big in 2025, it’s one that’s certainly stood the test of time, having inspired the fashion and beauty world for years. Burgundy is the new neutral and crimson is a timeless choice for makeup and nails year on year.

Dyson recognizes that certain colours can be deeply tied to culture, while specific shades carry unique meanings, emotions, and associations in different regions. Dyson teams conduct research and collaborate with regional experts to ensure that colour choices align with local traditions, aesthetics, and preferences.

Recently, Dyson unveiled the Red Velvet and Gold range, celebrating both Lunar New Year and Valentine’s Day. Red symbolises luck, prosperity, and love, making it a popular choice during festive seasons. Luxe shades of gold were incorporated as they represent success and in Cantonese, ‘mandarin – 柑’ and ‘gold – 金’ sound similar.

Dyson Airwrap i.d. multi-styler and dryer
The globally awarded multi-styler and dryer now features Bluetooth technology for optimised styling. Users can personalise their hair profile and automatically style curls with the push of a button. The Dyson Airwrap i.d. features three new attachments: a Conical barrel for tighter, defined curls, a Wave+Curl diffuser for enhance waves and curls, and a Blade concentrator for precise air flow for smoother, aligned hair. The Dyson Airwrap multi-styler in Red Velvet and gold is priced at AED 2999 or SAR 2999.

Dyson Supersonic Nural hair dryer

Dyson’s most intelligent hair dryer uses Nural sensor technology to measure the distance between the machine and scalp, maintaining a consistent temperature to protect scalp health and enhance hair’s natural shine. It also features attachment learning technology, simplifying styling by remembering the last setting used with different attachments.

The Dyson Supersonic Nural hair dryer in Red Velvet and gold is priced at AED 1899 or SAR 1899.

Dyson Airstrait straightener
The Dyson Airstrait straightener lets you stretch and straighten hair from wet to dry using only air. By eliminating hot plates, it helps prevent both heat and mechanical damage. The device works with multiple hair types to create naturally straight styles with body and movement, while preserving hair’s health, leaving it strong with a natural feel.

The Dyson Airstrait straightener in Red Velvet and gold is priced at AED 1999 or SAR 1999.

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