Tag

Persistence

All articles tagged with #persistence

technology6 days ago•3 min saved

PromptSpy Uses Gemini AI to Permanently Bind Itself to Android’s Recent Apps

Researchers identify PromptSpy as the first Android malware to leverage Google’s Gemini AI to analyze on-screen UI and issue step-by-step instructions that pin the app to the recent apps list, making it hard to uninstall. The malware can capture lockscreen data, take screenshots, and record video, and uses a built-in VNC module and accessibility services to enable remote access and ongoing data collection, including PINs and screen content, via a hard-coded C2. It is distributed via mgardownload.com masquerading as JPMorgan Chase (MorganArg), appears aimed at Argentina, and is not on Google Play; Chinese-language strings hint at its development context.

via The Hacker News|

#ai #android #cybersecurity

technology7 days ago•5 min saved

PromptSpy: Android malware harnesses AI at runtime to harden persistence

Researchers from ESET describe PromptSpy, the first Android malware to run a generative AI model (Google Gemini) at runtime to adapt its persistence across devices. The malware uses Gemini to receive JSON instructions via screen data (UI elements, coordinates) and perform actions to pin itself in the Android Recent Apps list, executing via Accessibility Service. It also includes a VNC module for remote control, enabling data exfiltration, screen recording, and real-time surveillance such as intercepting PINs, recording unlock gestures, and capturing screenshots. It even overlays invisible UI elements to hinder uninstallation. It’s unclear whether PromptSpy is a proof-of-concept or in the wild, but distribution appears limited and tied to a domain used for initial drops. The case highlights how AI can enable dynamic, real-time modification of malware behavior.

via BleepingComputer|

#android #cybersecurity #generative-ai

security7 days ago•15 min saved

PromptSpy uses GenAI to persist on Android via AI-guided UI manipulation

ESET researchers uncovered PromptSpy, the first known Android malware to use generative AI (Google Gemini) to drive UI-level actions for persistence. By feeding Gemini an XML snapshot of the current screen, the AI returns step-by-step tap instructions to keep the app in the recent apps list, while a built-in VNC module provides remote access. The malware also exploits Accessibility Services, overlays to hinder uninstallation, and can capture lockscreen data and screen video. Distribution appears tied to Argentina via a banking/phishing site; no Google Play presence. This example shows how AI can make Android threats more adaptive and harder to defeat.

via WeLiveSecurity|

#android-malware #generative-ai #persistence

science5 months ago•5 min saved

Caffeine Boosts Persistence Under Pressure

A study found that caffeine, especially under stress, can increase task persistence in humans, with effects varying based on dose and context, suggesting caffeine promotes active coping behaviors.

via PsyPost|

#behavioral-study #caffeine #human-psychology

neuroscience1 year ago•6 min saved

Decoding the Brain's Decision to Persist or Quit

Research from the University of Pennsylvania reveals how different regions of the prefrontal cortex influence decisions to persist or quit in uncertain situations. Damage to the ventromedial prefrontal cortex reduces persistence, while other areas affect learning from feedback. These findings have implications for understanding conditions like anxiety and addiction, where reward processing is altered. The study highlights the brain's complex calculations in evaluating rewards and persistence, with future research focusing on neurotransmitter roles in these processes.

via Neuroscience News|

#brain #decision-making #neuroscience

astronomy1 year ago•6 min saved

"Decades-long Quest: The Journey to Witness a 1,400-Mile Eclipse"

After 52 years of failed attempts to witness a total eclipse, a determined individual plans a 1,400-mile journey along the path of totality, from Arkansas to New Brunswick, in hopes of finally experiencing clear skies for the event. Despite past disappointments and unfavorable weather forecasts, the traveler remains optimistic and flexible, ready to drive long distances and make last-minute adjustments to maximize the chances of a successful viewing.

via CNN|

#astronomy #eclipse #persistence

human-interest2 years ago•2 min saved

"Guinness Reverses Decision, Awards French Man World Record for Matchstick Eiffel Tower"

Richard Plaud, who spent eight years building a 23-foot model of the Eiffel Tower with 700,000 matchsticks, was initially told by Guinness World Records that his attempt didn't qualify due to the type of matchsticks used. However, after reviewing the case, Guinness reversed its decision, acknowledging Plaud's achievement as the tallest matchstick sculpture. Plaud expressed relief and described the emotional rollercoaster he experienced during the ordeal, emphasizing that he never lost hope in achieving his childhood dream of holding a world record.

via NBC News|

#eiffel-tower #guinness-world-records #human-interest

human-interest2 years ago•2 min saved

"Guinness World Records Reverses Decision, Crowns Man's 23ft Matchstick Eiffel Tower Tallest in the World"

French man spends eight years building a 23ft Eiffel Tower replica with over 700,000 matchsticks, only to have his Guinness World Record entry rejected due to a technicality that the matchsticks used were not commercially available. Despite his disappointment, social media users praised his work, and Guinness World Records has acknowledged that they might have been too strict in their review process and will review the rules for similar records.

via LADbible|

#disappointment #eiffel-tower #guinness-world-records

astrology2 years ago•3 min saved

"Scorpio Horoscope: February 2024 Predictions and Reflections"

Scorpio's daily horoscope for February 5, 2024 predicts a day promoting persistence and assertiveness, with opportunities to turn dreams into tangible achievements in all aspects of life. In love, it's a perfect day to connect with a partner or set new standards if single. Career-wise, seizing challenging tasks and maintaining tenacity could lead to recognition or promotion, while financially, it's a good time to analyze decisions and invest in learning new skills. Health and wellness should be prioritized, and overall, Scorpios are encouraged to utilize their innate traits of determination, resilience, and strength to secure wins in all realms of life.

via Hindustan Times|

#astrology #horoscope #persistence

horoscope2 years ago•0 min saved

"Aquarius Horoscope: Embracing Uniqueness and Change in 2024"

Aquarius, it's a matter of time before things sort themselves out, so be patient and persistent. Hold the vibration of what you're attracting in your heart and surrender your ego, especially in romantic matters, as this will lead to finding an amicable solution.

via VOGUE India|

#aquarius #horoscope #patience

success-and-career-advice2 years ago•2 min saved

Spike Lee Debunks Success Myths

Film director Spike Lee warns against the damaging belief in "overnight success," emphasizing the importance of hard work, preparation, and persistence. Lee shares his own journey of facing rejection and having to prove himself in the film industry. He highlights that success often requires years of struggle and tight budgets, and that the perception of overnight success is often misleading due to the hidden work behind it. Lee encourages individuals to embrace the ups and downs of their journey and reject the notion of instant success.

via CNBC|

#hard-work #overnight-success #persistence

entertainment2 years ago•2 min saved

From Med School to Disney's 'Wish': A Journey of Persistence and Success

Fawn Veerasunthorn, the director of Disney's "Wish," had a challenging journey to her current position. After dropping out of med school and facing multiple rejections from Disney, she sought advice from a mentor and eventually landed a job with the iconic film studio. Veerasunthorn worked on popular films like "Frozen" and "Moana" before co-directing "Wish." Her story reflects the theme of the movie, emphasizing the importance of persistence and overcoming obstacles to achieve one's goals.

via CNBC|

#animation #career-journey #director

business2 years ago•2 min saved

"The Letter that Launched a Career: How Warren Buffett's Protégé Seized an Opportunity"

Tracy Britt Cool, a protégé of Warren Buffett, landed a job at Berkshire Hathaway after sending a letter to Buffett asking for a job. She quickly rose through the ranks and became the CEO of Berkshire holding Pampered Chef. In 2020, she co-founded her own private equity firm, Kanbrick, which follows Berkshire's investing philosophies but focuses on executive mentorship and hands-on management. Britt Cool's success story highlights the importance of persistence and having a thick skin when facing rejection. She believes that the risk of rejection is low, so it's worth taking a shot and reaching out to people.

via CNBC|

#berkshire-hathaway #business #kanbrick

health2 years ago•7 min saved

Unveiling the Hidden Havens: Viruses' Secret Hideouts in the Human Body

Viruses can hide in "immunoprivileged sites" in the human body, such as the brain, spinal cord, pregnant uterus, testes, and eyes, where the immune system doesn't monitor them closely. Some viruses, like influenza and SARS-CoV-2, primarily infect the respiratory tract but can also be found in other parts of the body. Viruses can persist in sanctuary sites and continue infecting surrounding cells. They can also become latent, leaving their genetic material behind to reproduce later. The duration of viral hiding varies, and different variants may hide for longer periods. The presence of viral RNA has been associated with long COVID, but the exact role of viral persistence in post-viral syndromes is still being studied. Research on SARS-CoV-2 is expected to provide insights into the persistence of other viruses.

via The BMJ|

#health #human-body #immune-system

education2 years ago•4 min saved

56-year-old Fails China's College Entrance Exam for 27th Year.

Liang Shi, a 56-year-old man from Sichuan, China, has taken the country's grueling college entrance exam, known as the "gaokao," 27 times over the past 40 years, but has yet to achieve a high enough score to enter a top university. Despite studying hard for the exam, Liang's score this year was lower than the previous year, leaving him disappointed and considering giving up. The gaokao is notoriously difficult, with pressure piled on students who spend months in advance cramming for the exam.

via CNN|

#china #college-entrance-exam #education