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Wednesday: Spyware-Laced Ads Targeting Starlink Users, Amazon's Globalstar Acquisition

Security1 min read

This is a roundup of tech news from one Wednesday. It covers spyware spread through online ads, Amazon's approved takeover of satellite firm Globalstar, and a new Infineon chip factory in Austria.

Spyware hidden in online ads

Researchers say that the online ad system used for personalized ads is being used to spread spyware. The Israeli firm Discover-Tech is named as a key link between the ad industry and makers of government spy tools. The firm bought a lot of ads aimed at Starlink users. It also targeted countries that are under sanctions.

Key facts about the ad campaign

  • Discover-Tech is the second-largest buyer of ads aimed at Starlink users worldwide.
  • In 105 countries, it is the largest buyer of these Starlink ads.
  • In 49 countries, it is the largest buyer of online ad space overall.
  • Sanctioned places on its list include Yemen, Libya, South Sudan, Syria and Venezuela.

US approves Amazon's Globalstar deal

The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved Amazon's takeover of the satellite company Globalstar. The FCC said the deal serves the public and will improve services for people. The deal is worth 11.5 billion US dollars. Only one objection was filed, by Yippy, a company that Globalstar partly owns. The objection was rejected. Yippy had once compressed data for Globalstar's satellites, but it stopped five years ago.

Infineon builds a new chip factory in Austria

Infineon plans the world's first large factory for gallium nitride power chips on 300-millimeter wafers. The factory will be in Villach, in southern Austria. Production should start at the end of 2027. The plan costs about 1.1 billion euros, and up to 319 million euros may come from an EU subsidy.

Why this matters

Ad systems can be misused to hack phones and computers, which puts ordinary users at risk. The Amazon deal shows how big companies are buying up satellite networks. The Infineon factory could help make devices smaller and lighter.

Glossary

Globalstar
A satellite company that provides phone and data links, now being bought by Amazon.
Infineon
A German chipmaker with factories in several countries, including Austria.

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