Microsoft On the Issues

Microsoft On the Issues

Technology, Information and Internet

Redmond, Washington 76,416 followers

News & perspectives on today's pressing tech issues, AI, sustainability, security and more for #Microsoft. 👇

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About us

News and perspectives on the future of tech, public policy and philanthropic topics for #Microsoft. ➡️ https://blogs.microsoft.com/on-the-issues/

Website
https://blogs.microsoft.com/on-the-issues/
Industry
Technology, Information and Internet
Company size
10,001+ employees
Headquarters
Redmond, Washington
Specialties
technology, government affairs, AI and Data, privacy, cybersecurity, tech news, tech issues, accessibility, diversity and inclusion, sustainability, digital skilling, AI, Affordable Housing, Public Affairs, tech executives, responsible AI, and AI ethics

Updates

  • View organization page for Microsoft On the Issues, graphic
    Microsoft On the Issues

    76,416 followers

    Every day, over 50,000 people visit St. Peter’s Basilica. Now, you can join them—from anywhere in the world. With the power of AI, photogrammetry, and other cutting-edge technologies, Microsoft’s AI for Good Lab has helped create a 3D replica of this iconic site that you can tour virtually. This digital experience not only brings the beauty, culture, and history of the Basilica to life but also preserves this architectural marvel in remarkable detail for generations to come. Take a look at these stunning visuals and experience the Basilica in 3D. ➡️ https://msft.it/6043WqX9b #DigitalBasilica #AIForGood #PetrosEni ️

    • Close-up of a mosaic cherub with digitally enhanced blue square overlays focused on the mosaic tiles.
    • Illuminated Sistine Chapel fresco projection on building dome at night, surrounded by figures.
    • A group of individuals sitting around a conference table engage in a discussion, viewing a detailed 3D model on a large screen. Laptops and camera equipment are on the table, indicating a focus on technology and design.
    • A dynamic Baroque sculpture depicts numerous angels surrounding a central dove. The scene is illuminated by a radiant stained glass window, casting a warm, ethereal glow over the intricately detailed figures.
    • St. Peter's Basilica at sunset, with warm golden light illuminating the square and surrounding buildings.
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    Microsoft On the Issues

    76,416 followers

    Without access to diverse and high-quality data, AI systems would be limited in their capabilities, much like an engine without fuel would be unable to operate. Open data plays a crucial role in the growth and development of AI, promoting innovation and competition and giving everyone a seat at the table big or small. Our latest newsletter explores the policies, principles and partnerships fueling the #AI economy. 

    Powering Innovation through Access Principles and Open Data

    Powering Innovation through Access Principles and Open Data

    Microsoft On the Issues on LinkedIn

  • View organization page for Microsoft On the Issues, graphic
    Microsoft On the Issues

    76,416 followers

    Climate change stands as the paramount challenge of our time, demanding urgent, united efforts and innovative technological solutions. At Microsoft, we're dedicated to achieving our sustainability goals while empowering others to build a more sustainable future. This commitment involves owning our environmental impact and driving forward with technological advancements. In 2024 alone, we’ve secured over 5 million metric tons of carbon removal and provided clean water and sanitation to over 1.5 million people, advancing our mission to build a healthier planet for all in the year ahead and beyond. Learn more about how we’re advancing sustainability in our 2024 Impact Summary: https://msft.it/6049ouGRt #Microsoft #Sustainability #ClimateAction

    • Two engineers in hard hats and safety vests stand at a wind farm, one pointing at a wind turbine while holding a laptop. The scene is set against a sunset, emphasizing renewable energy. Overlayed Text reads: "4 steps Microsoft has taken to advance sustainability," highlighting the company's commitment to environmental initiatives.
    • "Details on becoming carbon neutral include a 6% reduction in emissions since 2020, contracting 34 gigawatts of renewable energy in 21 countries, and achieving 5,015,019 metric tons of carbon removal in FY23. Solar panels are depicted. Overlayed text: 1. Becoming carbon neutral."
    • The image features two green infographics. The first highlights the achievement of providing water access to 1.5M people with clean water and sanitation solutions. The second states that new datacenters are optimized for AI workloads, consuming zero water for cooling. Below, an image shows a hand reaching into flowing water, symbolizing water sustainability.
    • "Infographic titled 'Achieving zero waste' highlights sustainability efforts with three metrics: 18,537 metric tons of waste were diverted from landfills and incinerators, 89.4% reuse and recycling of servers and components across all cloud hardware, and a 2.7% reduction in single-use plastics in Microsoft packaging. Includes an image of electronic components."
    • A close-up of a green leaf represents ecological focus, alongside stats: "15,849 acres" with details on protected land exceeding targets by 40%, and "22" projects funded in 21 locations, enhancing 30,000 square meters of land and supporting 20,000 trees. Overlayed Text: "Protecting and preserving ecosystems."
  • View organization page for Microsoft On the Issues, graphic
    Microsoft On the Issues

    76,416 followers

    From concept to creation, introducing SPARROW, a first-of-its-kind solution that redefines how biodiversity data is collected. We’ve hit a critical point in the fight to protect our planet's biodiversity, with global vertebrate populations dropping nearly 70% over the last 50 years. Microsoft’s AI for Good Lab launched SPARROW—Solar-Powered Acoustic and Remote Recording Observation Watch—a tool combining advanced sensors, satellite connectivity, and AI to deliver real-time insights on ecosystems.  Until now, many biodiversity projects rely on camera traps and sensor arrays that must be physically retrieved, often from remote, difficult-to-access locations. With SPARROW, data from some of the planet’s most isolated regions are transmitted directly to the cloud. In 2025, it will be available worldwide with open-source access to support a global network of researchers and conservationists in their efforts to preserve Earth’s diverse species and ecosystems. 🌍 Read more about SPARROW: https://aka.ms/Sparrow  #AIForGood #Biodiversity #GlobalConservation #OpenSource 

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  • View organization page for Microsoft On the Issues, graphic
    Microsoft On the Issues

    76,416 followers

    “This technology plays a fundamental role for cultural heritage preservation. This is just the beginning,” says Juan M. Lavista Ferres, who leads Microsoft’s AI for Good Lab. Through cutting-edge AI, advanced image analysis, and 3D mapping, the digital twin of St. Peter’s Basilica captures and elevates the iconic site’s architectural beauty. By analyzing thousands of drone-captured images and identifying areas of structural damage, AI helped create a brilliant, photorealistic model that transforms how people experience this treasured landmark. The Basilica's digital twin is opening the virtual doors to the Vatican’s 2025 Jubilee Year, ensuring more people get to experience this iconic site.  Learn more about how the digital twin was made and explore the phenomenal result here➡️ https://lnkd.in/gxX9rep5 #DigitalBasilica #AIForGood  

  • View organization page for Microsoft On the Issues, graphic
    Microsoft On the Issues

    76,416 followers

    In the past year, the urgency of climate change has spurred global collaboration, with #AI presenting new opportunities to accelerate climate solutions. In 2023, we saw the potential of AI as a catalyst for change. By 2024, this promise transformed into tangible impact, from speeding up materials discovery to increasing powerline capacity for clean energy and empowering the workforce by closing the green skills gap. Our AI and Sustainability Playbook outlines these game-changing capabilities. Microsoft’s Chief Sustainability Officer Melanie Nakagawa focused our efforts on three key areas: 1️⃣ Contracting 32 GW of renewable energy in 24 countries. 2️⃣ Advancing low-carbon materials and global markets for sustainability infrastructure. 3️⃣ Optimizing datacenter energy and water efficiency, including AI and cloud services. In addition, through the Microsoft Climate Innovation Fund, we've allocated over $760 million to innovators addressing the climate challenge. We're also supporting durable carbon removal projects, expanding carbon-free electricity, and driving circular economy solutions. Read more in our annual Impact Summary report: https://msft.it/6045oG7DR #Microsoft #Sustainability #ClimateSolutions

    • Quote by Melanie Nakagawa, the Corporate Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer at Microsoft. A photo of Melanie is located in the bottom right hand corner. The quote reads: Like all new technologies, we must ensure that we develop AI ethically and responsibly. For sustainability, this means addressing the resource needs to power this technology.
  • View organization page for Microsoft On the Issues, graphic
    Microsoft On the Issues

    76,416 followers

    What if the latest cybersecurity tools could think and act like hackers? AI is revolutionizing cybersecurity by enhancing our ability to predict, detect, and respond to threats. Some AI tools can distinguish between human- and AI-generated content, helping to counteract phishing campaigns. Predictive analytics can forecast where future threats may emerge, allowing organizations to take preventive measures. AI can also scan software for vulnerabilities, suggest secure coding practices, and detect unauthorized access, reducing false positives and enabling professionals to focus on high-risk cases. Additionally, AI monitoring tools can analyze network traffic to identify malicious activity in real-time, shortening the window for attackers to cause damage. AI's role in malware identification and data loss prevention is crucial for mitigating the impact of cyberattacks. Finally, AI-powered tools can identify patterns in hacker behavior, aiding in detection and attribution, and digital forensics tools can reconstruct cybercrime timelines, paving the way for accountability and deterrence. #Cybersecurity #AI #DigitalSafety

    • The Microsoft logo appears above bold text: "HOW YOU CAN PROTECT YOURSELF WITH AI" placed over a ribbed, brown abstract background. An arrow points right at the top, implying forward movement. Overlayed Text: "According to MITRE ATT&CK framework," suggesting guidance on AI protection strategies.
    • The image features the word "RECONNAISSANCE" in bold, with a description discussing AI tools that can differentiate between human and AI-generated content, aiming to counter AI-driven phishing. It emphasizes the role of predictive analytics in identifying potential cyber threats. The background includes abstract, blurred lines and lights, suggesting a tech-oriented theme.
    • Background with "GAINING ACCESS" in bold white. Below, paragraph discusses AI's capability to scan software for insecure coding, suggesting improved coding methods to preempt vulnerabilities. It highlights AI's role in detecting unauthorized access and reducing false positives, aiding cybersecurity. Overlayed Text: "GAINING ACCESS".
    • Graphic titled "Privilege Escalation and Lateral Movement" highlights AI tools' ability to monitor network traffic, detect deviations from normal behavior, and flag threats swiftly. Text in orange emphasizes threat reduction and prevention of attackers' damage. The background includes abstract red and orange hues with a blue gradient overlay.
    • AI's importance in malware identification and data loss prevention is emphasized, helping organizations prevent and mitigate destruction from cyberattacks. Overlayed Text: “AI is a crucial component of malware identification and data loss prevention software, which helps targeted organizations prevent or mitigate the destruction and disruption inflicted by cyberattacks.” Background includes abstract shapes with vivid colors.
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    Microsoft On the Issues

    76,416 followers

    Imagine malware that can rewrite itself to avoid detection—AI makes it possible. In the realm of cybersecurity, AI can be a double-edged sword. While it offers robust defense mechanisms, it's also being weaponized by cybercriminals. AI's capabilities in reconnaissance allow for the collection of sensitive information through facial recognition and the crafting of realistic phishing emails. It's also enhancing password guessing accuracy and bypassing security systems. Once inside a network, AI can identify vulnerabilities and escalate privileges. Moreover, AI-generated malware is becoming more sophisticated, increasing the impact of cyberattacks. Lastly, AI is aiding in evasion, with malware like Black Mamba using ChatGPT to alter its code, making detection challenging. It's crucial for organizations to stay ahead of these threats by understanding and mitigating the risks associated with malicious AI use. #Cybersecurity #AI #CyberAttacks

    • Microsoft promotional graphic on a soft gradient background, showcasing the text "How Cybercriminals Are Using AI" with "According to MITRE ATT&CK framework" beneath. The Microsoft logo is in the upper left corner, accompanied by a red arrow pointing rightwards. Curved abstract shapes are at the bottom.
    • A purple background image with the word "RECONNAISSANCE." Below, a white text box explains how AI tools help attackers collect sensitive information through facial recognition and social engineering techniques. Bold text highlights the use of AI to evade spam filters, craft realistic emails, and mimic trusted figures to enhance spear-phishing methods.
    • Title "Gaining Access" on a blue background. The text discusses AI's ability to analyze password datasets for effective guessing. It highlights that bots with machine learning might surpass humans in solving CAPTCHAs and that AI can bypass firewalls and biometric systems. It mentions AI-driven social engineering stealing credentials and creating deceptive web content.
    • The image features a gradient background in red and purple tones, with prominent white text: "Privilege Escalation and Lateral Movement." Below, a text box describes how attackers use AI to identify insecure coding patterns, scaling techniques like "fuzzing" to quickly exploit system weaknesses. Key terms such as "identify," "fuzzing," and "exploit" are emphasized in orange.
    • A graphic with "IMPACT" and text discussing AI's role in crafting sophisticated malware or ransomware, enhancing cyberattack disruption and destruction, like efficiently searching for critical data or intellectual property. The overlayed portion highlights these capabilities in red for emphasis.
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  • View organization page for Microsoft On the Issues, graphic
    Microsoft On the Issues

    76,416 followers

    Cyberattacks follow a structured lifecycle, as outlined by the MITRE ATT&CK framework. This framework simplifies the process into five stages: 1️⃣ Reconnaissance 2️⃣ Gaining Access 3️⃣ Privilege Escalation and Lateral Movement 4️⃣ Impact 5️⃣ Evasion of Defenses and Attribution By understanding these phases, organizations can better prepare and defend against digital threats. Explore how AI influences each stage of cyber deterrence. #Cybersecurity #AI #DigitalDefense

    • Microsoft graphic demonstrating the importance of the MITRE ATT&CK Framework in enhancing cybersecurity defenses. The visual features a gradient background with the central text emphasizing improvement in cybersecurity. Overlayed text explains ATT&CK as a repository of adversary tactics helpful for developing threat models and strategies.
    • Red abstract background with bokeh effect. Prominent white text reads "RECONNAISSANCE." Below, overlayed text details attackers collecting intelligence to select targets and design attacks, including social engineering and technical information on networks and systems.
    • Purple and pink abstract background with overlayed text: "GAINING ACCESS. The attacker secures a foothold in their target’s information system. This can involve stealing credentials from legitimate users or exploiting a software vulnerability to obtain a 'backdoor' into the system."
    • The image features text on privilege escalation and lateral movement against abstract blue and red backgrounds with dynamic patterns. Overlayed Text: "Steps an attacker takes after they initially breach a system to gain additional privileges needed for their aims, or to gain access to other systems that may be more sensitive or valuable."
    • Text "Impact" atop abstract red and pink textures, with overlayed text: "Actions an attacker performs to fulfill their goals within the system, such as encrypting or exfiltrating files, taking websites offline, or damaging targeted infrastructure
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    Microsoft On the Issues

    76,416 followers

    This year marks the 15th anniversary of PhotoDNA, a pioneering technology that is used around the world in the detection and reporting of child exploitation images. PhotoDNA works by creating unique digital signatures—known as hashes—for images, enabling organizations to identify and remove harmful content without needing to view it directly. Safeguarding privacy while detecting illegal material has become a critical tool in online safety.    PhotoDNA is offered for free to companies and law enforcement agencies worldwide, helping to create a safer internet for all.    National Center for Missing & Exploited Children #PhotoDNA #OnlineSafety #TechnologyForGood #ChildProtection  

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