In a recent announcement, Microsoft has taken a significant step in bolstering the security of its cloud services, including OneDrive and SharePoint. The tech giant revealed that it will now scan password-protected Zip files uploaded or shared by users. This proactive measure aims to tackle the long-standing issue of cybercriminals exploiting archived documents for malware distribution. Previously, Microsoft’s scanning capabilities were limited to uncompressed files, allowing malicious actors to bypass detection by setting passwords. Security researcher Andrew Brandt shed light on this development, highlighting the potential of this enhanced security feature.

Encrypted ZIP files can now be scanned by Microsoft

Archived documents have long served as a conduit for malware distribution. Cybercriminals have frequently employed password-protected Zip files to obfuscate their malicious payloads. However, Microsoft’s recent move to scan encrypted Zip archives on SharePoint marks a significant stride in combating this nefarious practice. By deliberately compressing various malware samples into encrypted Zip files and uploading them to Microsoft cloud services, Brandt demonstrated that these files were promptly flagged as containing malware.

While Microsoft’s proactive scanning approach adds an extra layer of security, the company recognizes that some users may have concerns regarding privacy and data integrity. To address these concerns, users who prefer Microsoft not to scan encrypted files have alternatives at their disposal. They can opt for different compression formats, such as 7-Zip, or utilize encryption algorithms like AES-256. These options ensure that users have the flexibility to maintain control over their data while simultaneously safeguarding it from potential threats.

With its decision to scan password-protected Zip files, Microsoft has taken a commendable step forward in securing its cloud services against malware distribution. By proactively identifying and flagging encrypted files that may contain malicious payloads, the company aims to provide users with enhanced protection and peace of mind. While users can choose alternative compression formats or encryption algorithms to prevent scanning, Microsoft’s commitment to bolstering security demonstrates its dedication to the well-being of its customers. By actively staying ahead of cyber threats, Microsoft continues to pave the way for a safer and more secure cloud computing environment.

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As per the new report from The Information, it is revealed that Huawei could be the potential partner with Microsoft for the upcoming AI chips deal in China. Microsoft is in talks with the Chinese firm to use its AI chips in the data centres in China. Both the firms are already collaboratively working together in cloud computing to bring the Office 365 in the country. So, it isn’t surprising to see the two to deepen their partnership with such a deal.

The deal can also be termed as a an aftereffect of the recent China’s policy to use more “home” based technologies for data centers in the country. If true, then it would be for the first time that Microsoft doesn’t use AI chips from Nvidia in China. It would be a big blow for the Nvidia as already it is down in the stock market by -1.9%. Currently, Huawei is banned from use in the US due to some security concerns. So, this deal would be a relief for Huawei and it will also help it take a dominant position in the AI chip market in China.

To convince Microsoft to use its AI chips, Huawei must fulfill the U.S. company’s strict performance requirements. Some Huawei engineers are customizing the software that operates the chips in order to meet Microsoft’s standards, according to one of the people. The engineers are also conducting tests by running Microsoft’s algorithms, such as the Bing search engine’s speech recognition software, on the new Huawei chip.

There are huge benefits for both the companies, except Nvidia. Microsoft will also gain cold shoulder support from the Chinese government. Also, it could help Microsoft to build trust among the users due to native-ness of the servers.

• Read More: Microsoft Has An AI Bot In China Named Xiaoice That Can Make Voice Calls To Humans

In the upcoming months, we hope Microsoft will strengthen its position in the Chinese market. It is also helping the American giant to understand the Chinese market in more detail. In China, Microsoft is competing against already present companies such as Alibaba and Tencent. Additionally, the market would be small for the new AI chips as Nvidia AI chips are mostly in use by some big companies in China. Still, there’s big chance that Huawei’s presence would gradually increase in upcoming few months due to support from Microsoft.

Let’s see what happens in the near future as the deal has not been sealed yet.

(Source)

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