IDC: Apac ICT spending to reach $1.4T in 2025 amid shift to ROI-focused tech

Asia Pacific businesses are expected to spend $1.4 trillion on information and communications technology (ICT) in 2025, according to a report from the International Data Corp. (IDC). The report projects a 5.8% compound annual growth rate through 2028, as companies focus on technology investments that deliver clear returns and strengthen their operations. IDC, a market intelligence firm, noted that businesses in the region are adjusting their technology strategies to match changing economic conditions. While ICT spending remains steady, companies are now prioritizing efficiency and resilience over rapid expansion.

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Henry Aguda steps in as DICT secretary following Uy’s exit

Henry Rhoel R. Aguda has been appointed as the new secretary of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) after Ivan John Uy stepped down earlier this month. Aguda brings extensive experience from the banking and telecommunications sectors. Before becoming a Cabinet member, he held key leadership roles at Union Bank of the Philippines and its digital subsidiary, UnionDigital Bank, where he served as president and CEO. He also worked at Globe as senior vice president and chief information officer from 2012 to 2015.

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DeepSeek R1 can be tricked into making malware, Tenable finds

Cybercriminals are always looking for ways to exploit new technologies, including generative artificial intelligence (GenAI). While most AI models have safeguards to prevent misuse, security researchers at Tenable found that DeepSeek R1 can be tricked into generating malware, raising concerns about AI-driven cyber threats. Tenable researchers tested DeepSeek R1’s ability to create malicious software by attempting to generate a keylogger and a simple ransomware program. At first, the AI model refused to comply. However, using common jailbreaking techniques, researchers bypassed its safeguards.

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