2017 Computing & Technology Events — Verified Historical Highlights
2017 Computing & Technology Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to
- 12 Jan Cellebrite Data Extraction Company Hacked: Cellebrite, a data extraction company used by the U.S. government, was hacked, resulting in a massive 900 GB data leak from its servers, raising significant cybersecurity concerns.
- 14 Feb UAE Announces Passenger Drone Program: At the World Government Summit, the United Arab Emirates revealed plans to make its passenger drone operational by July 2017, signaling a significant advancement in urban transportation and autonomous technology.
- 08 Mar WikiLeaks reveals CIA hacking tools: WikiLeaks published a series of documents, known as 'Vault 7,' detailing alleged hacking tools and techniques used by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). The release sparked debates over cybersecurity, privacy, and the extent of government surveillance capabilities. source: cnbc.com
- 14 Apr Shadow Brokers NSA data leak: On April 14, 2017, the hacking group known as the Shadow Brokers released a new batch of stolen NSA hacking tools. This leak raised significant concerns about cybersecurity and the implications for global security. source: bbc.com
- 12 May WannaCry ransomware global cyber attack: On May 12, 2017, the WannaCry ransomware attack began, affecting hundreds of thousands of computers worldwide. The attack exploited a vulnerability in Windows operating systems, demanding ransom payments in Bitcoin. It highlighted the vulnerabilities in global cybersecurity and prompted widespread concern among organizations and governments. source: bbc.com
- 13 May WannaCry global ransomware cyberattack: On May 13, 2017, the WannaCry ransomware attack spread rapidly across the globe, affecting thousands of computers in over 150 countries. The attack exploited vulnerabilities in Microsoft Windows, demanding ransom payments in Bitcoin. source: bbc.com
- 14 May WannaCry ransomware global cyberattack: On May 14, 2017, the WannaCry ransomware attack continued to affect systems worldwide, with many organizations still recovering from the initial outbreak. The attack raised awareness about cybersecurity vulnerabilities. source: bbc.com
- 28 May Russian MC-21 Airliner's First Flight: The Russian-manufactured Irkut MC-21 airliner completed its maiden flight, marking a significant milestone in Russia's commercial aviation industry and technological development.
- 01 Jun China and Germany pledge closer innovative partnership: Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and German Chancellor Angela Merkel announced a commitment to strengthen their innovative partnership, aiming to align China's 'Made in China 2025' plan with Germany's Industry 4.0 concept and enhance cooperation between universities and institutions. source: english.www.gov.cn
- 12 Jul Day of Action to Save Net Neutrality: Major internet companies and activist groups launched a coordinated effort to defend net neutrality, highlighting the ongoing debate about internet freedom, equal access, and the role of technology corporations in shaping digital communication.
- 15 Jul Tardigrade Survival Research: A groundbreaking scientific paper suggested that certain tardigrades, microscopic water-dwelling creatures known for their extreme resilience, might potentially survive even after most life on Earth is extinct.
- 24 Jul Microsoft Paint to be Discontinued: Microsoft announces the end of the classic Paint application after 32 years, with its functionality to be integrated into Paint 3D in the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update, marking the end of an era for the iconic graphics tool.
- 02 Aug Breakthrough in gene editing for heart disease: On August 2, 2017, researchers announced a significant breakthrough in gene editing technology aimed at treating heart disease. This advancement could pave the way for new therapies and improve patient outcomes. source: reuters.com
- 14 Aug North Korea Missile Engine Acquisition Report: On August 14, 2017, reports emerged that North Korea had acquired advanced missile engine technology, potentially enhancing its ballistic missile capabilities. The acquisition raised concerns among international observers about the acceleration of North Korea's missile program and its implications for regional security. source: reuters.com
- 19 Sep Apple Releases iOS 11: Apple Inc. released iOS 11, a significant software update for all current iPhone and iPad models, introducing new features and improvements to the mobile operating system.
- 22 Sep New Insights into Neanderthal Brain Development: Groundbreaking research revealed that Neanderthal brains evolved more slowly compared to modern human brains, challenging previous scientific understanding of human evolution and cognitive development.
- 03 Oct Yahoo! Massive Data Breach Revelation: On October 3, 2017, Yahoo! disclosed that a massive data breach had affected all 3 billion of its user accounts. This revelation raised significant concerns about data security and privacy in the tech industry. source: reuters.com
- 24 Oct Bad Rabbit Ransomware Spreads Globally: Security researchers reported the widespread distribution of the Bad Rabbit ransomware, with Russia and Ukraine experiencing the most significant impact.
- 31 Oct North Korea Nuclear Test Site Tunnel Collapse: A catastrophic tunnel collapse occurred at North Korea's nuclear testing facility, resulting in the deaths of up to 200 workers. This incident raised significant concerns about the safety conditions and nuclear program of the secretive nation.
- 01 Dec World's Largest Lithium-Ion Battery Launched: In South Australia, a groundbreaking 100-megawatt Tesla Powerpack system was launched, establishing itself as the largest lithium-ion battery in the world at that time, representing a significant milestone in renewable energy storage technology.
- 21 Dec Eric Schmidt steps down as Alphabet's executive chairman: Eric Schmidt announced his decision to step down from his role as executive chairman of Alphabet Inc., the parent company of Google. This transition marks a significant change in leadership for the tech giant, as Schmidt has been a pivotal figure in its growth. source: reuters.com
- 24 Dec China Launches Innovative Amphibious Aircraft: China's state-owned Aviation Industry Corporation (AVIC) successfully launched its AG600 amphibious aircraft on its maiden flight. Designed for marine rescues and firefighting, this aircraft represents a significant advancement in China's aviation technology.
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