B Holmes
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Ransomware is a form of malware that restricts access to data on infected computer systems. It generally propagates as a trojan, where the file initially seems to be legitimate, but can take on different forms. Some types restrict access to an infected computer, others systematically encrypt files on a system’s hard drive. No matter the style, a ransom is extorted to regain access to the data, typically in a digital currency such as bitcoin or pre-paid cash vouchers.
When bitcoin initially came on to the financial playing field in 2009, little note was taken of the fledgling technology. As the years have passed, it has received applause and criticism. However, bitcoin as a currency has not experienced the same staggering rise to fame as it’s underlying technology.
Deloitte recently released a report, The Banking Industry Outlook, which estimates that blockchain-based payment systems could equal the volume of the U.S. Automated Clearing House financial transactions network by 2020. Despite this promising outlook for the growing blockchain industry, regulatory bodies fear that digital currencies attract illicit uses. This narrative was driven by the infamous Silk Road marketplace, which propelled bitcoin into the regulatory spotlight.
Team Daniel Bruno, who brought forward blockchain based technology such as John McAfee SwiftMail and SwiftCoin, are offering US $10,000 to any hacker that can break their code.
A partnership was recently formed between KPMG and CB Insights. KPMG is a global network of professional firms which provide audit, tax and advisory services. CB Insights is a National Science Foundation that uses data science, machine learning and predictive analytics to help their customers invest. Together, they are working to produce a quarterly report, The Pulse of FinTech, which advises on market trends within the growing FinTech industry.
Former Estonian Prime Minister Mart Laar began laying the foundation for raising the e-Generation, following the country’s independence in 1991. It was touted as a period of modernization.
The 2nd Annual Blockchain and Bitcoin Africa Conference starts today, in Johannesburg, South Africa. The two day event is being co-hosted by Bitcoin Events Pty Ltd and Absa, a member of Barclays bank.
“Deloitte” is the brand under which tens of thousands of professionals in independent firms throughout the world collaborate to provide financial services.
Britain's financial watchdog has announced that it will not directly regulate blockchain, as it could hamper innovation.
The [Ascribe](https://www.ascribe.io/) platform launched a year ago, offering a secure, public online ownership protocol called SPOOL. It was directed at the digital art community, allowing creators to claim authorship via the Bitcoin blockchain.
