People & Lifestyle
Africa’s first Artificial Intelligence Expo to be held in Cape Town
As more leading brands sponsor Africa’s first Artificial Intelligence Expo, Intel Corporation sign up as a premier sponsor and will drive regional skills development in Artificial Intelligence by supporting the training of 200 young African engineers in partnership with event organisers AI Media and local Ecosystem Enabler Silicon Cape.
“With technology breakthroughs across all sectors of industry now going mainstream, understanding the business opportunity from both a supplier and client perspective has never been more paramount.” said Roy Bannister, Event Chairman. “AI ExpoAfrica 2018 has at its core a focus on real-world applications and trends driving the AI Economy in Africa and seeks to build an AI Business-focused community across the continent,” Bannister concluded.
AI ExpoAfrica 2018 is aimed at the C-Suite decision makers, senior executives, investors and innovators focusing on the disruptive nature of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, Deep learning, Data Analytics, Robotic Process Automation (RPA), AI cloud platforms, hardware, devices and Internet of Things (IoT).
“With the signing of Intel Corporation as a premier sponsor, we are now able to deliver on one of the key themes and goals of the event, namely skills development and education”, said Nick Bradshaw Event Director of AI Expo Africa. “When we launched the show at the end of January 2018, we conducted a very high level survey on the challenges we face in deploying AI Technology in Africa. It was clear that skills availability was the No. 1 challenge closely followed by education as the two biggest challenges facing companies seeking to grow competency in AI and related disciplines. So in response to this, and in partnership with Intel Corporation, we are offering the opportunity to train up 200 young engineers during the event by a series of AI workshops we have named the “AI Talent Tank”. This new aspect to the event will be unique and FREE for young engineers to take part in and it is sure to be popular. Tickets for participation in the AI Talent Tank workshops will be made available shortly,” concluded Bradshaw.
Intel Corporation joins a growing list of sponsors and supporters of AI Expo Africa. Roy Allela, Intel Corporation Program manager for the Intel Innovator Program in EMEA and Royal Academy of Engineering LIF Fellow 2018, commented, “We are proud to be helping facilitate much needed AI skills development and education. It is incumbent on us all to foster collaboration with events like this to ensure young engineers gain an opportunity to not only learn new skills but interact with Expo sponsors and delegates to create new relationships, swap ideas and even secure job opportunities.” Allela concluded, “The AI Expo Africa Event Team at AI Media were only too happy to configure a sponsorship package to meet our mutual goals and the AI Talent Tank will truly be a win-win for all concerned, we can’t wait to share this with the community and leverage the local skills development partners they are working with to make this happen”.
Tumi Menyatswe, Ecosystem Manager at the The Silicon Cape Initiative commented, “Silicon Cape is committed to building and catalysing the Technology Ecosystem in the Western Cape and beyond. We are proud to be a partner of AI Expo Africa and the team has been very proactive with us in achieving our mutual goals. We support ideas such as the AI Talent Tank at AI Expo Africa as it aligns with our vision to work with entrepreneurs, regulators, governments and corporate businesses to create an environment where startups and skills can thrive”. Menyatswe concluded, “We need to grow the technology talent pool on the Continent and foster the creation and growth of World-class solutions, services and companies in Africa. We will be helping AI Media and Intel Corporation reach into our community to find and train the new, young AI talent of tomorrow, we can’t wait to get started.”]]>
People & Lifestyle
Is a Free VPN Safe to Use? Exploring the Risks and Benefits
In our current digital age, online privacy and security have become an importantt concerns for internet users around the world. With the increasing prevalence of cyber threats and data breaches, people are actively seeking ways to protect their online activities. Virtual Private Networks, or VPNs, have gained popularity as tools that promise safeguarding your digital footprint. While there are many VPN options available, free VPNs, in particular, have garnered significant attention due to their accessibility. In this article, we will explore the risks and benefits of using a free VPN, with a focus on free VPN for Windows.
Understanding VPNs: What Are They?
Before delving into the world of free VPNs, let’s understand what a VPN is and how it works. A VPN is essentially a service that establishes a secure, encrypted connection between your device (in this case, your Windows PC) and a remote server. This connection masks your IP address and encrypts your internet traffic, making it difficult for third parties, such as hackers or government agencies, to monitor your online activities.
The Benefits of Using a Free VPN
Enhanced Privacy: One of the primary advantages of using a free VPN is the boost in online privacy. Your internet service provider (ISP), websites, and even potential cybercriminals won’t be able to track your online behavior when you’re connected to a VPN.
Bypassing Geo-Restrictions: Free VPNs often allow users to access geo-restricted content. For example, if a streaming platform or website is only accessible in certain regions, a VPN can make it appear as though you’re browsing from an eligible location.
Protection on Public Wi-Fi: When you connect to public Wi-Fi networks, your data becomes vulnerable to interception. A free VPN can add an extra layer of security when you’re using unsecured public Wi-Fi at cafes, airports, or hotels.
The Risks Associated with Free VPNs
Data Logging: Many free VPN providers track and log user data. This can include your online activities, websites visited, and even personal information. This data may then be sold to third parties or used for targeted advertising.
Inadequate Security Measures: Some free VPNs might not implement robust encryption protocols, leaving your data vulnerable to breaches or leaks.
Limited Features: Free VPNs often come with limitations, such as slower connection speeds, data caps, and fewer server locations. These restrictions can hinder your online experience.
Malware and Adware: Some free VPN services have been found to include malware or adware in their software, potentially infecting your device.
Uncertain Jurisdiction: Free VPN providers can be based in countries with lax data privacy laws, which means they may not be obligated to protect your data.
Choosing the Right Free VPN for Windows
If you decide to use a free VPN for your Windows device, it’s essential to exercise caution and select a reputable service. Here are some simple tips for selecting the right one:
Read Reviews: Research and read user reviews and expert opinions to find out which free VPNs have a good reputation for security and privacy.
Check for No-Logs Policy: Look for a free VPN that has a strict no-logs policy. This means they don’t store your online activities or personal information.
Transparent Privacy Policy: Ensure that the VPN provider has a clear and transparent privacy policy that explains how they handle your data.
Encryption Standards: Check what encryption standards the VPN employs. The stronger, the better.
Server Locations: Opt for a free VPN with multiple server locations so you can access content from different regions.
Trial Period: Some premium VPN providers offer limited free versions or trial periods of their services. These can be a safer option than entirely free VPNs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the decision to use a free VPN for your Windows device comes with both benefits and risks. While free VPNs can enhance your online privacy and help you access geo-restricted content, they may also compromise your data security and privacy due to certain limitations and potential pitfalls. To maximize the benefits of using a free VPN while minimizing the risks, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research, choose a reputable provider, and be aware of the privacy policies and security measures in place. Ultimately, your online security is in your hands, and a well-informed choice can help you navigate the digital landscape more safely.