A cross-platform malware campaign, dubbed “SparkCat,” targets cryptocurrency wallet recovery phrases through malicious apps on both Android and iOS. The malware, embedded in various applications, scans users’ image galleries for sensitive data, leveraging optical character recognition to identify mnemonics. Security experts warn that if such tactics become easier to replicate, the potential for widespread damage could increase significantly.
read more
News from ITA
Generated 2 posts last week US Senator Proposes Bill to Criminalize Downloading DeepSeek AI Technology
US Senator Josh Hawley has introduced the Decoupling America’s Artificial Intelligence Capabilities from China Act, aiming to ban the import and export of AI technology to China, including the DeepSeek AI chatbot. Violators could face fines up to $1 million for individuals and $100 million for companies, along with potential jail time.Critics argue the bill could hinder US AI research and innovation, with experts warning it may “kill open-source” efforts and slow Western progress in AI development.
read moreIntesa Sanpaolo Invests in Bitcoin Amid Growing Institutional Interest
Intesa Sanpaolo, Italy’s largest bank with $1 trillion in assets, has acquired 11 Bitcoins through its digital assets trading desk, signaling growing institutional interest in cryptocurrency. CEO Carlo Messina described the investment as a test for potential sophisticated clients, amid a backdrop of increasing demand following the launch of a Bitcoin ETF in the US and a favorable regulatory environment under President Trump. However, European regulators remain cautious, with the Bank of Italy and the European Central Bank expressing skepticism about the intrinsic value of cryptocurrencies.
read moreDeepSeek AI Faces Global Backlash Over Privacy and Security Concerns
Italy’s data protection authority, the Garante, has ordered the Chinese AI startup DeepSeek to cease operations in the country due to inadequate responses regarding its data collection practices. Despite being removed from local app stores, the app remains functional for users who previously downloaded it. Concerns over privacy and potential espionage have led to investigations by multiple countries, as DeepSeek’s low-cost AI model challenges established tech giants and raises national security alarms.
read moreKraken to Delist USDT and Other Stablecoins in EEA by March 2025
Kraken will delist Tether (USDT) and four other stablecoins in the European Economic Area (EEA) by March 31, 2025, to comply with MiCA regulations. The delisting process starts on February 13, 2025, with trading restrictions and automatic conversions of remaining holdings by the deadline. Users are encouraged to convert affected tokens to MiCA-compliant assets before the end of Q1 2025.
read moreBlockDAG Aims for Major Exchange Listings Amid Crypto Market Developments
BlockDAG is gaining momentum with plans to list on 10 major exchanges, following a presale that has yielded a remarkable 2,380% ROI. Currently priced at $0.0248, the project has raised over $187 million and is set for a mainnet launch this year, enhancing its market visibility and potential for growth. Meanwhile, Avalanche (AVAX) is testing crucial support levels, while Cardano shows increased trader commitment despite volatility, indicating ongoing interest in these cryptocurrencies.
read moreGenerali Switzerland Aims for Turnaround with New Strategy and Investments
Generali plans to return over 7 billion euros to shareholders by 2027, focusing on profitability in Switzerland after recent struggles. The company aims for annual earnings per share growth of 8-10% and is enhancing agility through a partnership with MIT on AI. A joint venture with Natixis in asset management is also in the works, pending Italian government approval.
read moreSwiss Deco Chain Depot Files for Bankruptcy Amid Economic Crisis
The interior decoration chain Depot has declared bankruptcy, leaving around 300 employees without jobs as it closes all Swiss branches immediately. This follows a series of corporate failures in Switzerland, signaling a broader economic crisis affecting various sectors and leading to significant layoffs. The situation highlights the challenges faced by companies, including the impact of past ownership changes and financial losses.
read moreEuropean Central Bank Leaders Skeptical of Bitcoin as Reserve Asset
European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde has dismissed Bitcoin as a reserve asset for member states, citing its volatility and association with illicit finance. Despite Bitcoin’s recent price surge and growing institutional interest, skepticism remains prevalent among European lawmakers. Meanwhile, the Czech National Bank is considering a proposal to add up to $7 billion in Bitcoin to its reserves, marking a potential shift in the region’s stance on digital assets.
read moreWine and Dining Experiences in the Austrian Ski Resorts of Ötztal
In the Ötztal region, ski resorts Sölden and Gurgl offer not only excellent slopes but also remarkable dining experiences with extensive wine lists. Notable establishments include the gourmet restaurant Austria Stuben in Obergurgl, boasting 1,500 wines, and the Ice Q in Sölden, celebrated for its stunning views and gourmet cuisine. The Nederhütte provides a relaxed après-ski atmosphere, enhancing the culinary adventure on the slopes.
read moreItaly Withdraws Amendment on Crypto Asset Tax Increase to 33 Percent
In Italy, the proposed increase in taxes on capital gains from crypto-assets has been modified, with the rate set to rise from 26% to 33% starting in 2026. The Lega party has withdrawn its amendment to revert the rate back to 26%, making future changes more challenging. Currently, sales in 2025 will still be taxed at 26%, but the removal of the €2,000 threshold for tax-free gains complicates the landscape for crypto investors.
read moreSoftBank Plans Up to 25 Billion Investment in OpenAI’s Future
SoftBank is in talks to invest up to $25 billion in OpenAI, potentially making it the largest backer of the AI firm, surpassing Microsoft’s $13 billion stake. This comes alongside a $500 billion Stargate project aimed at enhancing U.S. AI infrastructure, involving major players like Oracle and Microsoft. Meanwhile, concerns arise over Chinese firm DeepSeek’s rapid advancements in AI, prompting U.S. government scrutiny regarding potential intellectual property theft.
read more