A growing number of North Korean IT workers are posing as remote freelancers from other countries in an effort to gain access to companies in Europe, raising concerns about potential espionage, data theft, and operational disruption.

According to Google’s Threat Intelligence Group (GTIG), these workers—who refer to themselves as “warriors”—are securing remote roles with foreign organisations to generate revenue for the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK). The activity, previously concentrated in the United States, is now increasingly being observed in European countries such as Germany, the United Kingdom, and Portugal.

Since GTIG’s last report on DPRK IT worker activity, recent crackdowns in the US have made it more difficult for these individuals to secure and maintain employment there. According to a blog post by Jamie Collier, lead adviser for Europe at Google’s Threat Intelligence Group, GTIG has observed a rise in operations globally, with particular growth in Europe over the past few months. Countries targeted include Germany, the UK, and Portugal.

The workers often misrepresent their nationalities, claiming to be from countries such as Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Ukraine, the United States, and Vietnam. They find jobs through freelance platforms like Upwork and Freelancer, as well as communication channels such as Telegram. Payments are typically made in cryptocurrency or through digital payment platforms including Wise and Payoneer.

Upwork provided a statement following publication, clarifying it did not receive the initial request for comment. The company said:

“Fraud prevention and compliance with US and international sanctions are critical priorities for Upwork. The tactics outlined in this report represent a challenge that affects the entire online work industry, and Upwork is at the forefront of combating these threats. Any attempt to use a false identity, misrepresent location, or take advantage of Upwork customers is a strict violation of our terms of use, and we take aggressive action to detect, block, and remove bad actors from our platform.

Upwork has long invested in industry-leading security and identity verification measures, deploying advanced technology alongside a dedicated team of global professionals across legal, investigations, intelligence, identity risk management, compliance, anti-money laundering, and machine learning detection. These experts work relentlessly to prevent fraudulent activity before it reaches our customers, and quickly respond to new methodologies and trends.

As fraud tactics evolve, Upwork continuously enhances its proactive screening for attempts to bypass geographic restrictions, monitoring for signs of misrepresentation both before and after contracts begin. Our sophisticated detection tools, paired with strong partnerships with law enforcement and regulatory bodies, enable us to take swift and decisive action when fraudulent behaviour is identified.

While no online platform is immune to fraud, Upwork is setting the standard for trust and safety in the industry. We will continue to invest in cutting-edge fraud prevention measures and vendor solutions, collaborate with industry stakeholders, and innovate to protect our customers and uphold the integrity of our marketplace.”

Freelancer, Telegram, Wise, and Payoneer did not respond to requests for comment.

GTIG reports that since October, there has been an uptick in cases where previously terminated workers attempt to extort their former employers by threatening to leak sensitive company information to competitors. Collier suggested that mounting pressure on these workers may be pushing them toward more aggressive tactics to maintain income.

One case in late 2024 involved a North Korean individual operating under at least 12 separate identities while applying to organisations in the defence and public sectors, reportedly using false references. In the UK, North Korean IT workers have been linked to work ranging from standard web development to more advanced projects in blockchain and artificial intelligence.

Google’s research points to risks associated with bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies, where employees use personal devices to access internal systems. These setups often lack proper security oversight, making it more difficult to detect unauthorised access.

Authorities in the US and UK have issued multiple warnings about these activities. The FBI has advised firms to improve identity verification practices, while the US Treasury in January sanctioned two individuals and four entities accused of generating revenue for the North Korean government. Officials allege the regime withholds up to 90% of wages earned by these workers.

In a separate legal action, a US federal court in Missouri indicted 14 North Korean nationals in December for allegedly participating in an employment scheme that generated US$88 million over six years. Some of these individuals were reportedly employed by US firms for extended periods, earning hundreds of thousands of dollars without detection.

The UK’s Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation has also responded. In September, it recommended employers implement stricter identity checks, including video interviews, and advised against using cryptocurrency for payments.

Collier noted that North Korea has a long history of engaging in cyber operations to fund its regime. “A decade of diverse cyberattacks (encompassing SWIFT targeting, ransomware, cryptocurrency theft, and supply chain compromise), precedes North Korea’s latest surge,” he wrote.

“This relentless innovation demonstrates a longstanding commitment to fund the regime through cyber operations. Given DPRK IT workers’ operational success, North Korea will likely broaden its global reach. With APAC already impacted by these operations, this problem is set to escalate. These campaigns thrive on ignorance and will likely enjoy particular success in areas of APAC with less awareness of the threat.”

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At MWC 2025, Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison became the first mobile operator in Southeast Asia to deploy AI-RAN (Artificial Intelligence Radio Access Network), in collaboration with Nokia and NVIDIA. The deployment integrates Nokia’s 5G Cloud RAN solution with NVIDIA AI Aerial, creating what the companies term a unified computing infrastructure that hosts both AI and RAN workloads.

AI and telecom convergence

Indosat is the world’s third operator to deploy AI-RAN commercially. The recent initiative combines AI and wireless connectivity to improve network performance, efficiency, and service capabilities. As part of the partnership, the companies have signed an MOU to develop, test, and deploy AI-RAN solutions. The initial focus will be on AI inferencing workloads using NVIDIA AI Aerial, followed by the full integration of RAN workloads on the same platform.

Indosat, Nokia, and NVIDIA will work with Indonesian universities and research institutes to advance AI-driven telecom applications, support academic research and student training, and drive innovation in network optimisation, spectral efficiency, and energy management.

AI-RAN’s role in network transformation

The AI-RAN infrastructure is expected to change Indosat’s network strategy, letting the company share infrastructure costs for multiple applications and introduce AI-powered services. The integration’s aims of improving spectral efficiency and reduction in energy use laying the groundwork for future 6G improvements.

The initiative is in line with Indonesia’s national AI strategy, establishing Indosat as an enabler of AI services rather than just a telecom provider. The company has established a ‘Sovereign AI Factory’ in Indonesia, designed to support startups, enterprises, and government organisations in developing AI applications for healthcare, education, and agriculture. With NVIDIA AI Enterprise software and serverless APIs, Indosat plans to scale AI inferencing for Indonesia’s population of 277 million, optimising AI workloads across the network.

Expanding AI capabilities across applications

The provided serverless API framework, created in collaboration with NVIDIA, will allow Indosat’s AI partners, including Hippocratic.ai, Personal.ai, GoTo, and Accenture, to deploy distributed inference engines on a large scale.

Indosat President Director and CEO Vikram Sinha made clear the broader impact of AI integration in telecom, saying, “By embedding AI into our radio access network, we’re not just enhancing connectivity – we’re building a nationwide AI-powered ecosystem that will fuel innovation across industries. This aligns with our mission to connect and empower every Indonesian.”

Deployment roadmap

The AI-RAN rollout will follow a phased approach:

• Early 2025: A 5G AI-RAN lab established in Surabaya to support development, testing, and validation.
• Second half of 2025: Launch of a small-scale commercial pilot to test AI inferencing workloads running on the NVIDIA AI-RAN infrastructure.
• 2026: Broader expansion of AI-RAN deployment.

Industry perspectives

Tommi Uitto, President of Mobile Networks at Nokia, stated: “When you combine AI with RAN, you create an engine for future innovation. With our 5G Cloud RAN platform, Indosat can transform its network into a multi-purpose computing grid that uses the synergies of AI-accelerated computing. With our AI-powered products, we help Indosat augment RAN capabilities for enhanced performance, operational efficiency, advanced automation and optimised energy efficiency.”

Ronnie Vasishta, SVP Telecoms at NVIDIA said: “The combination of Indosat’s vision for a nationwide AI grid and NVIDIA AI expertise and full-stack software and hardware platform will catalyse AI adoption and innovation across Indonesia, creating a new playbook for telecom operators worldwide.”

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Apple has refreshed its MacBook Air lineup for 2025, equipping the 13-inch and 15-inch models with the M4 processor.

The new laptops retain their fanless cooling design, despite the increase in processing power. In a notable change, Apple has reduced the starting prices for both models. The 13-inch MacBook Air with M4 starts at $999, the same price as the previous M2 model. The 15-inch version is priced at $1,199, down from $1,299 for last year’s release.

Alongside the MacBook Air updates, Apple has introduced a new Mac Studio, offering configurations with either an M4 Max processor or a new M3 Ultra chip. Pricing for these desktops remains unchanged, with starting costs of $1,999 and $3,999, respectively.

MacBook Air upgrades: What’s new?

Apple has kept the overall design of the MacBook Air unchanged but introduced a new colour option, Sky Blue. The Midnight (black) model now includes fingerprint-resistant anodisation, similar to the MacBook Pro. The M4 chip’s improved performance and efficiency mean the M4 MacBook Air is twice as fast as the original M1 version. However, the performance increase over the M3 models looks to be more incremental.

The M4 processor enables several capabilities, including:

• Support for two external displays while the laptop is open, compared to just one on M3 models.
• A 12-megapixel Centre Stage camera with Desk View, featuring subject tracking.
• Up to 18 hours of battery life, consistent with the M3 MacBook Air.

Base configurations now come with 16GB of unified memory, an increase from 8GB, to support Apple Intelligence features. The 13-inch model starts with a 10-core CPU and an 8-core GPU, with the option of upgrading at the time of purchase to a 10-core GPU. The 15-inch model starts with the more powerful 10-core CPU and GPU combination. Apple continues to pitch the MacBook Air as an ultraportable everyday device, while the MacBook Pro lineup remains focused on users needing higher performance and active cooling.

Mac Studio returns with M3 Ultra and M4 Max

Apple has upgraded its Mac Studio desktop to include the M4 Max processor and the new M3 Ultra chip. Both versions now support Thunderbolt 5 connectivity, which allows for data transfers of up to 120 Gbps. This enables connection to high-speed accessories, including PCIe expansion hubs and external storage solutions.

The M4 Max model keeps its 16-core CPU and 40-core GPU, with memory configurations ranging from 36GB to 128GB. According to Apple, the M4 Max has 3.5 times the performance of the M1 Max. The M3 Ultra model uses Apple’s UltraFusion interconnect to combine two M3 Max processors into a single system-on-chip (SoC), resulting in:

• A 32-core CPU (two 16-core M3 Max chips).
• An 80-core GPU, designed for intensive computing and AI applications.
• Up to 512GB of unified memory, the highest capacity available in a compact desktop workstation.
• 800GBps memory bandwidth, doubling that of the M4 Max model.

The M3 Ultra model is being positioned for AI development, machine learning, and high-performance computing, while the M4 Max configuration is aimed at content creators and professionals who require powerful GPU acceleration.

MacBook Air pricing adjustments and market positioning

The MacBook Air lineup’s price cut comes as Apple faces more competition from Windows-based ultraportables. While Apple has not revealed the actual reason for the price drop, enhancements in chip manufacturing efficiency at TSMC may have contributed to cost savings. Apple is also discontinuing the M3 MacBook Air models, leaving the M1 MacBook Air, still sold at Walmart, as the only lower-cost alternative. By offering the MacBook Air with M4 at a lower price, Apple is positioning itself more aggressively in the ultraportable laptop segment, where Windows manufacturers like Asus, HP, and Dell have introduced compelling alternatives in the sub-$1,000 range.

Apple’s strategy for AI and performance gains

Apple’s latest Mac lineup continues its push toward AI-focused computing, with the M4 MacBook Air supporting Apple Intelligence features and the M3 Ultra Mac Studio catering to developers working on AI models.

While the M4 processor offers improved graphics processing, some of its ray-tracing enhancements are absent from the M3 Ultra, which prioritises high memory capacity and parallel processing. Apple’s approach suggests that its Ultra-series chips will continue to lag one generation behind in graphics advancements due to the dual-chip architecture.

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Lazarus Group has long been a strong player in cybercrime, specifically targeting bitcoin exchanges and financial institutions. According to Cointelegraph, the North Korean-backed hacking organisation has stolen billions of dollars while using advanced evasion tactics.

On February 21, the organisation pulled off its largest known robbery, stealing $1.4 billion from Bybit. Blockchain investigator ZachXBT linked the attack to an $85 million breach of Phemex, as well as intrusions at BingX and Poloniex, reinforcing suspicions that North Korea’s cyber army was behind the theft.

Since 2017, Lazarus Group has stolen an estimated $6 billion from the crypto sector, according to Elliptic. A United Nations report suggests these stolen funds help finance North Korea’s weapons program.

Lazarus Group: Who’s behind it?

The US Treasury identifies Lazarus as being controlled by North Korea’s Reconnaissance General Bureau (RGB), the country’s intelligence agency. The FBI has publicly named three North Korean hackers tied to the group, also known as APT38.

• Park Jin Hyok: Charged in 2018, allegedly linked to the 2014 Sony Pictures hack, the 2016 Bangladesh Bank heist ($81 million stolen), and the 2017 WannaCry ransomware attack.
• Jon Chang Hyok & Kim Il: Indicted in 2021 for financial cybercrimes, including cryptocurrency theft and laundering operations for the North Korean regime.

Jon allegedly developed malicious crypto applications used to infiltrate financial institutions, while Kim helped coordinate crypto-related heists and fraudulent ICOs.

The Bybit hack: How it happened

Shortly before the Bybit breach, North Korea reaffirmed its plans to expand its nuclear arsenal, while the US, South Korea, and Japan called for denuclearisation. Days later, Lazarus struck.

Security analysts quickly recognised familiar tactics. “Within minutes of ETH moving out of Bybit’s wallet, we saw Lazarus’ unique fingerprint,” said Fantasy, an investigator at crypto insurance firm Fairside Network.

The hackers used a phishing attack to compromise Bybit’s security, disguising their operation with a fake version of Bybit’s wallet management system. This allowed them to transfer 401,000 Ether ($1.4 billion) to wallets under their control, according to blockchain forensics firm Chainalysis.

Once the funds were stolen, the laundering process began. Investigators found that parts of the funds were converted into Bitcoin and Dai, using decentralised exchanges, cross-chain bridges, and no-Know Your Customer (KYC) swap services.

One platform, eXch, was identified as a laundering tool but has refused to freeze the stolen assets despite industry-wide intervention.

A significant portion of the funds remains spread across multiple wallets— a common tactic used by North Korean hackers to evade detection.

Crypto theft and social engineering

Lazarus Group has escalated its attacks on the crypto industry, stealing $1.34 billion across 47 breaches in 2024, more than double the $660.5 million stolen in 2023, according to Chainalysis.

The firm reports that private key compromises accounted for 43.8% of all crypto hacks that year. This method was used in the $305-million DMM Bitcoin breach and the $600-million Ronin hack—both attributed to Lazarus.

Beyond large-scale hacks, the group also engages in long-term social engineering schemes. Microsoft Threat Intelligence has identified a North Korean subgroup called Sapphire Sleet (Bluenoroff), which targets cryptocurrency firms and corporate networks.

Posing as recruiters and venture capitalists, these operatives lure victims into fake job interviews and investment scams, deploying malware to gain access to financial accounts. Over six months, they reportedly stole over $10 million through these tactics.

Infiltrating the global tech workforce

North Korea’s cyber operations extend beyond hacking. Thousands of North Korean IT workers operate remotely across Russia, China, and other regions, using AI-generated profiles and stolen identities to land high-paying tech jobs.

Once inside companies, these workers steal intellectual property, extort employers, and funnel earnings to the regime.

In August 2024, ZachXBT exposed 21 North Korean developers earning $500,000 per month by embedding themselves in cryptocurrency startups.

A federal court in St. Louis later unsealed indictments against 14 North Korean nationals, accusing them of:

• Sanctions violations
• Wire fraud & identity theft
• Laundering millions for the North Korean regime

These individuals reportedly worked for Yanbian Silverstar and Volasys Silverstar, North Korean-controlled tech firms operating in China and Russia.

The US Department of Justice estimates that these operatives earned at least $88 million over six years, with some required to send $10,000 per month back to the North Korean government.

A persistent cyber threat

Despite global scrutiny, Lazarus Group continues to evolve its tactics, adapting to new security measures and increasing its reach into financial and tech sectors.

Billions in stolen cryptocurrency, deep infiltration of global tech firms, and an expanding network of fraudulent IT workers highlight North Korea’s growing cyber capabilities.

While US authorities have intensified efforts to crack down on these operations through federal indictments and cyber task forces, Lazarus remains one of the world’s most active cybercrime syndicates.

With an ability to shift tactics and evade detection, the threat posed by Lazarus Group is far from over.

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Honor is committing $10 billion over the next five years to drive the AI transformation of its devices, intending to transition from a smartphone manufacturer to an AI-focused technology company.

CEO James Li Jian introduced the company’s “Alpha” initiative in Barcelona ahead of MWC 2025, describing a strategy for integrating AI across smartphones, tablets, wearables, and PCs. He emphasised the importance of industry collaboration, urging partners to share AI capabilities and support a more open AI ecosystem.

“This includes the industry becoming truly open, enabling seamless collaboration across different operating systems,” Li said, underscoring Honor’s goal of building an AI-powered multi-device experience.

Honor expands software support for Magic series

As part of its broader strategy, Honor is extending software support for its Magic series devices, providing seven years of major Android updates and security patches. The announcement follows Qualcomm’s decision to offer eight years of software support for its latest Snapdragon 8 and 7 series chipsets.

The extended update policy places Honor among the few global brands offering long-term software support, ensuring that Magic series users receive at least six major Android updates. The company states that this initiative aligns with its sustainability efforts, aiming to reduce e-waste by encouraging consumers to keep their devices for longer.

Honor says the move aligns with the EU’s Circular Economy and Ecodesign Regulation, which promotes longer product life cycles and environmental sustainability.

Honor’s AI push and market challenges

Honor has been working to integrate AI across its devices, recently incorporating DeepSeek’s R1 model into its Yoyo virtual assistant and search engine for smartphones and laptops.

The company has also formed alliances with big Chinese tech companies, such as Alibaba, Tencent, and ByteDance, to improve AI capabilities in its devices. Internationally, Honor collaborates with Google to integrate Gemini AI models into its devices.

Once a Huawei subsidiary, Honor was sold in 2020 to a consortium of buyers following US sanctions that limited Huawei’s access to key components. Honor continues to operate independently since then, but the Chinese smartphone market is becoming increasingly competitive.

According to IDC, Honor smartphone shipments in China declined 14.9% year on year in Q4 2023. The company’s market share dropped from 16.8% to 13.7%, leaving it fifth behind Apple, Vivo, Huawei, and Xiaomi.

Global expansion and growing market presence

While facing challenges in China, Honor has expanded in other markets. Shipments in the Middle East increased by 67% last year, reaching 3.2 million units, according to Canalys.

The company has also gained ground in Western Europe, surpassing Samsung Electronics to become the top foldable handset maker in Q2 2023, according to Counterpoint Research.

Honor’s global expansion efforts are ongoing, with the firm announcing plans to launch more than 30 products in Indonesia in 2025 as part of a larger strategy to enhance its presence in Southeast Asia.

Long-term vision for AI and sustainability

Honor’s focus on AI-driven devices and long-term software support complies with its goal of building a multi-device AI ecosystem. By providing longer software support, the company intends to extend the usability of its products and contribute to sustainability efforts.

As the battle for AI-driven smartphones heats up, Honor’s ability to differentiate itself through device longevity, AI-powered features, and international expansion will be critical to its growth strategy.

Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including Intelligent Automation Conference, BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo.

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The Ministry of Finance (MoF) has approved a digital banking licence for YTL Digital Bank Berhad, a joint venture between YTL Digital Capital Sdn Bhd and Sea Limited. The bank, known as Ryt Bank, has been cleared to begin operations on December 20, 2024. To ensure a smooth transition, it will be introduced to the public in phases.

Melvin Ooi, CEO of Ryt Bank, acknowledged the regulatory approval, calling it a step forward for Malaysia’s digital banking industry. He said that the bank will use AI to create a more accessible and inclusive banking experience. “By harnessing the power of AI to provide an unparalleled customer experience, we aim to deliver financial services that are meaningful and inclusive while helping customers achieve their financial goals,” he said.

The use of AI and machine learning (ML) in financial services is not new, and Ryt Bank wants to harness the technology to simplify processes. AI/ML techniques can help financial service providers (FSPs) make better decisions, manage risks more effectively, and improve efficiency while reducing costs. The capabilities align with Ryt Bank’s commitment to enhancing accessibility and the user experience.

Malaysia is witnessing a growing adoption of AI/ML in its financial sector. A 2021 survey conducted by Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) on AI/ML adoption among 25 financial service providers – including banks, insurers, and payment operators – revealed that many FSPs are actively using these technologies. The survey highlighted common applications like customer analytics, digital onboarding, and e-KYC processes. Some institutions have also incorporated AI/ML into credit underwriting, enabling more precise risk assessments and expanding access to underbanked customers.

The survey found strong support for AI/ML adoption at the senior management and board levels of these organisations. About half of the respondents viewed AI/ML as a ‘game changer’, with many exploring opportunities beyond existing use cases and current projects. That context sets the stage for Ryt Bank’s efforts to integrate advanced AI/ML tools into its operations.

Ryt Bank emphasises its Malaysian roots and seeks to simplify banking for its customers with an AI-powered platform. Its tools are designed to streamline processes like onboarding and transactions, offering a more personalised experience by analysing customer behaviour to better understand their needs.

At the core of Ryt Bank’s services is Ryt AI, an AI-based assistant intended to make financial management more straightforward. It claims to provide tailored financial advice, help customers develop savings strategies, and offer 24/7 support. One key feature of Ryt AI is its ability to complete fund transfers with a single text input, designed to save time and accommodate users with diverse needs and languages.

Security is another key focus for Ryt Bank. The bank employs encryption, biometric face verification, and real-time fraud monitoring to help safeguard its customers. Deposits are insured by PIDM up to RM250,000 per depositor, and the bank’s no-hidden-fee policy aims to show a commitment to transparency.

The initiative hopes to address the gap in financial access in Malaysia. Around 15% of the population remains under-served by the sector. Ryt Bank plans to provide services tailored to this group, contributing to the country’s broader financial inclusion efforts.

The collaboration between YTL and Sea brings together the strengths of two established organisations. YTL brings decades of experience in infrastructure and development, while Sea contributes expertise through enterprises like Shopee and SeaMoney. Together, they aim to create a banking experience that is suited to Malaysia. Ryt Bank is expected to launch its services to the public in the coming months, introducing a new player to Malaysia’s digital banking sector at a time when financial accessibility and innovation are growing priorities.

Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including Intelligent Automation Conference, BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo.

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TikTok is gradually making its way back online in the US after briefly going dark to comply with the divest-or-ban law that went into effect on January 19th. However, users hoping for a smooth return to their favourite ByteDance apps might have to wait a little longer.

While TikTok’s restoration is underway, Google and Apple have yet to reintroduce it – or any other ByteDance-owned apps – on their app stores. Currently, a search for TikTok on the App Store greets US users with a disappointing message: “TikTok and other ByteDance apps are not available in the country or region you’re in.” Over on Google Play, the notice is just as definitive: “Downloads for this app are paused due to current US legal requirements.”

TikTok acknowledged the disruption in a recent statement, saying it is “in the process of restoring service” and thanking President-elect Donald Trump for providing clarity to its service providers. The company expressed gratitude for assurances that supporting the app – like hosting it through Oracle or distributing content via CDN partner Akamai – wouldn’t result in penalties.

The restoration of TikTok highlights how complicated the situation remains. Trump, who has repeatedly promised to “save” the app, has yet to provide a fully detailed plan. Meanwhile, the Biden administration has indicated that enforcing the ban will fall to the incoming leadership. So far, none of the involved parties – Google, Apple, Oracle, Akamai, or TikTok – have commented further, leaving users and developers in a state of uncertainty.

What about other ByteDance apps?

While TikTok’s return offers some hope, ByteDance’s other apps remain inaccessible to US users. Popular tools like CapCut, Lemon8, and the digital card game Marvel Snap are still unavailable, with no clear timeline for their return. The widespread ban surprised many, particularly fans of Marvel Snap, a game with little connection to TikTok-style social media. Even its own developer, Second Dinner, seemed blindsided, posting on X: “The outage is a surprise to us and wasn’t planned. MARVEL SNAP isn’t going anywhere.”

American users trying to access these apps encounter messages similar to the one displayed by TikTok during its outage. For instance, CapCut shows a pop-up reading: “A law banning CapCut has been enacted in the US. Unfortunately, that means you can’t use CapCut for now. Rest assured, we’re working to restore our service in the US. Please stay tuned!” The bans extend beyond these high-profile apps. ByteDance’s less prominent tools, like TikTok Shop Seller Center, Hypic, and Lark, have also been affected. Both Google and Apple continue to display warnings for users attempting to download ByteDance apps, emphasising that current legal requirements prevent access.

Mixed reactions and uncertain outcomes

The legal situation has drawn mixed reactions from US lawmakers and companies. While TikTok’s hosting partners are reportedly relying on Trump’s promises of immunity, not everyone is convinced. Republican Senator Tom Cotton praised app stores for removing ByteDance apps and issued a stark warning. He suggested that any company facilitating TikTok’s operations could face severe legal and financial repercussions, including shareholder lawsuits and action from the Department of Justice.

The debate over TikTok and ByteDance apps is far from over. The divest-or-ban law has created a new level of uncertainty, not only for ByteDance but also for the developers, hosting providers, and millions of users caught in the crossfire.

Instagram steps into the spotlight

Instagram appears ready to take advantage of the chaos. Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri just introduced Edits, a new video editing app developed to compete with ByteDance’s CapCut. In an Instagram video, Mosseri classified Edits as more than just another editing tool. “Edits is more than a video editing app; it’s a full suite of creative tools,” Mosseri explained, emphasising features like a tab for inspiration, tools for organising creative ideas, and a camera. He also teased editing options that include green screens and video overlays – common features on TikTok and CapCut.

For creators who post directly to Instagram, Edits offers engagement metrics, including a live insights dashboard and breakdowns of follower versus non-follower activity.

Although Mosseri did not specifically mention ByteDance, the timing of his announcement seems strategic. As ByteDance apps struggle to overcome legal difficulties, Instagram is presenting itself as the go-to platform for creators seeking alternatives. Edits is set to launch on March 13th, 2025, and is already available for preorder on the iOS App Store.

What’s next for ByteDance?

The future of ByteDance apps in the US remains uncertain. TikTok’s slow return marks a step forward, but there is no word on when other apps like Marvel Snap, Lemon8, or CapCut might come back online. For US users, the uncertainty is frustrating, but for competitors like Instagram, it represents an opportunity to win over disheartened fans.

The situation raises questions about the role of government intervention in technology. ByteDance’s struggles are a reminder of how politics can disrupt innovation and reshape the digital landscape. Whether TikTok and its sibling apps can navigate this storm will depend on ByteDance’s ability to adapt to the challenges of the months ahead. In the meantime, creators and users are left wondering: Will ByteDance regain its footing, or is this the beginning of a new era where only US-based platforms like Instagram are allowed to dominate the creative space on American soil?

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Malaysia is positioning itself as a key player in cryptocurrency and blockchain innovation, inspired by the remarkable progress of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim recently completed a three-day visit to Abu Dhabi, where discussions with Binance co-founder Changpeng “CZ” Zhao and UAE leaders renewed Malaysia’s interest in developing comprehensive cryptocurrency policies. Anwar’s proactive approach highlights Malaysia’s determination to stay competitive in the digital finance sector.

Learning from the UAE’s playbook

The UAE has emerged as a global leader in blockchain and cryptocurrency innovation, creating a centre that acts as an example for other nations. Strategic investments, clear regulations, and tax incentives have all contributed to the UAE’s success.

Reports indicate that cryptocurrency transactions in the Emirates rose by $34 billion, marking a 42% increase from the previous year. The UAE government’s decision to exempt cryptocurrency transactions from value-added tax, retroactively applied to 2018, has been a major factor in attracting businesses and investors.

Anwar acknowledged the UAE’s achievements and noted that Malaysia could benefit from adopting a similar approach. “The is an evolution which happens quickly and requires us to be equally fast. We feel that Malaysia should not be left behind while mired in an old financial system,” he said. During his discussions with Abu Dhabi officials and Binance’s Zhao, Anwar emphasised the importance of forging partnerships to accelerate Malaysia’s entry into the cryptocurrency space.

A vision for Malaysia’s digital future

During the visit, Anwar explored topics like digital transformation, AI, and data centre development – all of which he sees as integral to Malaysia’s blockchain ambitions. “We have talked about digital transformation, data centres, and artificial intelligence. We now face demands that require us to think about making significant changes,” Anwar said.

“I had lengthy discussions with the Abu Dhabi leadership and Changpeng Zhao, co-founder of the world’s largest cryptocurrency platform, Binance. I proposed several months ago that our agencies, including security, treasury, and Bank Negara, study how Malaysia can explore this so we aren’t left behind. Ensuring that it is regulated could safeguard the people’s interests and prevent leakages.”

The Prime Minister plans to draft a policy paper for cabinet review, outlining regulatory frameworks designed to protect public interests and foster innovation. He stressed the urgency of taking action, likening the cryptocurrency revolution to the transformative power of AI. “We should not sit idly by and wait and later be forced to do so after others have done it already,” he said.

Why the UAE stands out

Industry experts cite the UAE’s ability to provide tax relief, attract global talent, and encourage investment as important drivers of its success. One notable example is Tether’s collaboration with Abu Dhabi-based firms to introduce a Dirham-backed stablecoin, which has strengthened the UAE’s position in digital finance. In commenting on the UAE’s achievements, Eric Trump said the country’s proactive stance was admirable.

“The UAE has shown how to do this right. By supporting cryptocurrency innovation, they’ve created jobs, attracted investment, and strengthened their global standing. The US can and should do the same.”

Malaysia’s next steps

Anwar acknowledged the difficulties associated with adopting new technologies, but emphasised the significance of preparation and collaboration. “As with all new ideas raised, there will be some concerns. We have to train our personnel, develop competency, and get the players to participate,” he said.

Anwar’s vision extends beyond policies; he aims to build what he describes as a robust digital finance ecosystem. He highlighted Malaysia’s strong ties with the UAE, noting that collaboration will be key to ensuring a smooth transition. “We told them that we would move on this on the condition that we work as partners to ensure that things are on track. The will be a radical departure from the old ways,” he said.

A regional trend

Malaysia’s ambitions align with a broader regional trend. Countries like Singapore and Thailand also offer cryptocurrency regulations that establish themselves as hubs for digital finance. However, the UAE has set a high standard, showing how strategic planning and proactive measures can deliver economic and technological benefits.

The UAE’s experience offers a roadmap for Malaysia. By using insights from the Emirates and fostering international partnerships, Malaysia has the potential to emerge as a competitive player in the global cryptocurrency landscape.

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Clocks are ticking at TikTok, and millions of American users and businesses are bracing for what could be the app’s final days in the United States. With a federal ban potentially taking effect this Sunday, Senate Democrats are ramping up the pressure on President Joe Biden to intervene and delay the decision. Their argument? A ban would harm not just creators and small businesses but also millions of users who rely on the platform for entertainment, entrepreneurship, and connection.

“We’re asking for the ability to resolve this issue rationally so TikTok does not go dark,” said Democratic Senator Ed Markey on Thursday. “Let’s take a breath, step back, buy some time, and figure this out.” As reported by Reuters, Markey’s appeal is part of a growing bipartisan effort to postpone the ban. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has also joined in, pressing Biden to extend by 90 days the deadline for TikTok’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to sell its US operations. Without such a move, the app, which has become a staple for 170 million Americans, could be forced to cease operations, creating a massive ripple effect.

“It’s clear that more time is needed to find an American buyer,” Schumer said. “We can’t disrupt the lives and livelihoods of millions of Americans, including so many influencers who have built up a network of followers.”

The battle over TikTok

The controversy surrounding TikTok isn’t new. In April, Congress passed a law requiring ByteDance to divest TikTok’s US operations in 270 days, citing national security concerns. Lawmakers and intelligence agencies have expressed growing unease that TikTok’s data collection practices could be exploited by the Chinese government for espionage. The Justice Department recently underscored these fears, calling TikTok a “powerful tool for espionage” due to its access to vast amounts of sensitive user data.

As the deadline looms, the stakes are high. TikTok has warned that it plans to shut down its US operations on Sunday if no last-minute solution is found. The scenario would leave millions of users scrambling for alternatives and disrupt content creators who depend on the platform for their livelihoods. While lawmakers like Markey, Cory Booker, and Chris Van Hollen are urging Biden to grant an extension, the administration has shown little interest in stepping in. A White House official recently suggested that the incoming administration may be better suited to address the issue, especially given that the deadline falls on a holiday weekend and just a day before the presidential transition.

A divided front

The effort to delay the ban has shown differences among US lawmakers. While some, like Schumer, advocate for a more measured approach, others remain sceptical of TikTok’s Chinese ownership. Critics claim that allowing the app to run without restrictions poses a continuing threat to national security. They fear TikTok’s data collection capabilities could be used to spread misinformation or gather sensitive information on American citizens.

“Trump talks a big game on China and wanted to ban TikTok – just like many Republicans voted to do,” said Representative Frank Pallone, a Democrat on the Energy and Commerce Committee. “But now he’s inviting TikTok’s CEO to sit beside him at his inauguration even though TikTok is linked to the CCP and is a threat to our national security. What message does this send?”

Republicans are also divided on the issue. Some, like US Representative Mike Waltz, feel that measures can be put in place to keep TikTok operational while protecting national security. Waltz recently cited a provision in the law that allows for a 90-day extension if there is “significant progress” toward a divestiture. “Essentially, that buys President Trump time to keep TikTok going,” Waltz explained.

The rise of alternatives

Many TikTok users are looking at alternatives as the future of the platform becomes more questionable. One app in particular, RedNote, has seen a meteoric rise in recent days. Known as Xiaohongshu in China, RedNote gained nearly 3 million US users in a single day earlier this week, according to analytics firm Similarweb. The influx of ‘TikTok refugees’ has propelled the app to the top of US app store download charts, surpassing TikTok in popularity – at least for now.

The shift underscores the significant impact of TikTok’s potential ban. For creators who’ve built their careers on the platform, the prospect of starting over elsewhere is daunting. Many had hoped ByteDance would finalise a deal to sell its US operations, but with the deadline fast approaching, resignation appears to be setting in. The TikTok turmoil has benefitted more than just RedNote. ByteDance’s Lemon8, a sister app to TikTok, has also seen a surge in US users. Nonetheless, those platforms face their own set of issues, ranging from worries about censorship to data privacy.

What happens next?

The fate of TikTok now hangs in the balance, with several potential scenarios still in play. The US Supreme Court is currently reviewing the case and could issue a ruling as early as Friday. The court’s decision could uphold the ban, delay its implementation, or overturn the law altogether. Meanwhile, reports have surfaced that TikTok’s CEO, Shou Zi Chew, may attend Trump’s inauguration (see above) – an unexpected development sparking speculation about warming ties between the company and the incoming administration.

Privately held ByteDance is primarily owned by institutional investors, including the US’s BlackRock and General Atlantic. Despite this, critics remain wary of its ties to China. “It’s not just about ownership; it’s about influence,” one analyst noted. Currently, millions of TikTok users, creators, and businesses are holding their breath. Whether the app survives or not, one thing is clear: the TikTok issue has become a flashpoint in the broader conversation about technology, security, and geopolitics in the digital age.

Interested in hearing leading global brands discuss subjects like this in person? Find out more about Digital Marketing World Forum (#DMWF) Europe, London, North America, and Singapore.

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In just a couple of days, the United States will decide whether to officially ban TikTok. As the clock counts down, TikTok users are finding creative ways to resist the impending ban, and one popular alternative gaining traction is a Chinese app called RedNote, known as “China’s TikTok” by some users.

RedNote, known as Xiaohongshu in China, has climbed to the top of the Apple App Store in the US as TikTok’s fate hangs in the balance. Unlike TikTok, RedNote combines photos, short-form videos, and text posts into a single platform, with content organised into “follow,” “explore,” and “nearby” feeds.

The proposed TikTok ban stems from national security concerns about its ties to its Chinese parent company, ByteDance. In response, many users have turned to RedNote, seeing it as both an alternative platform and a form of protest.

While RedNote shares some similarities with TikTok, it’s not a direct clone. It’s a versatile social media app owned by Shanghai-based Xingyin Information Technology. RedNote offers community-building tools, shopping features, and multimedia sharing. It has quickly become a refuge for American TikTokers, with many encouraging their followers to join the platform as a symbolic stand against the ban. Some have framed this move as a way to challenge both the US government and Meta, which could benefit from TikTok’s absence by attracting users to its TikTok-inspired Reels. It’s worth noting that Meta has faced accusations of lobbying against TikTok in the past.

A quick glance at RedNote’s “Explore” page reveals a mix of English and Chinese content. Many American users are calling themselves “TikTok refugees” and sharing posts about starting fresh on the platform. Some are even asking Chinese users about popular memes or trends in China, fostering an interesting cultural exchange.

RedNote is not a new app; it launched in 2013 as a shopping-focused platform. It now has over 300 million monthly active users and reportedly made more than $1 billion in profit last year, according to Bloomberg.

Meanwhile, TikTok’s fate is being argued in the Supreme Court. Discussions have centred on whether the app should be banned outright or if ByteDance should sell its US operations to an American company. A decision, expected by January 19, will determine TikTok’s fate in the US.

In anticipation of a potential ban, some users have pledged to boycott Meta’s platforms, including Instagram and Facebook, for a week. Others are simply preparing to move their online presence to RedNote. Then, there’s Lemon8, a mix of Instagram and Pinterest, launched in the United States in 2023, and has gained traction, now seen as another potential TikTok replacement. However, because it is also a ByteDance product, it’s unknown how long it can escape the same scrutiny.

What sets RedNote apart? For one, its user interface differs from TikTok’s. Videos don’t autoplay on opening the app, and users must log in to access its features. The app offers a personalised experience with content tailored to individual preferences.

The app’s growing popularity has sparked humour and camaraderie among users. Posts welcoming “TikTok refugees” are plentiful, with others joking about meeting their “Chinese spy” counterparts. These lighthearted memes and cultural exchanges reflect shared frustrations with the political undertones of the TikTok ban.

Jokes about the situation have further fueled the discussion. TikTok users are creating videos bidding farewell to their “Chinese spy friends,” with some even speaking in Mandarin. The humorous posts, often critical of the US government’s stance, have gone viral, highlighting a mix of humour and discontent.

As Sunday approaches, TikTok users anxiously await the Supreme Court’s decision. Many are already exploring life beyond TikTok

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Interested in hearing leading global brands discuss subjects like this in person? Find out more about Digital Marketing World Forum (#DMWF) Europe, London, North America, and Singapore.

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