Coinbase Reports Data Theft Involving Unauthorized Support Agents – The Verge

In the sprawling digital landscape where cryptocurrencies dance to the relentless beat of technology, a rather alarming incident hit the stage in May 2025. Coinbase, that titan of crypto exchanges boasting a mind-boggling user base of over 100 million, found itself in a real pickle—a security breach so significant that it sent shockwaves through the community and raised eyebrows far and wide. Imagine this: a handful of sketchy overseas support agents, tempted by the dark side of greed, decided to conspire with cybercriminals. The result? A theft of sensitive customer data affecting approximately one million users—that’s a staggering 1% of their entire user base! And what did these rogue agents want in return? A cool $20 million in ransom, because of course, what’s a good heist without a hefty payday?

### How They Got In

So, how did this cyber shenanigan come to fruition? Picture this: cybercriminals, cunning as they are, strategically recruit a few disgruntled employees from Coinbase’s overseas support team—individuals who, due to their privileged access, had a golden ticket to the treasure trove of customer data. They exploited this insider access over months, quietly siphoning off vital information before the alarm bells were ever heard. It’s like watching a heist movie unfold in real life, where the “good guys” take way too long to catch onto the “bad guys.”

What’s truly fascinating (and concerning, frankly) is how these dishonest insiders didn’t just swipe data randomly. With their knowledge, they set the stage for elaborate social engineering schemes—trying to impersonate Coinbase and trick unsuspecting users into handing over their hard-earned crypto funds. Talk about a twisted plot twist right out of a cyber-thriller!

### What They Took

Now, onto the juicy details of what was actually stolen. The compromised information wasn’t just a random assortment of details; it was a veritable goldmine for identity thieves. We’re talking customer names, postal and email addresses, phone numbers, and even the last four digits of Social Security numbers—like the breadcrumbs leading down the sinister path of data exploitation.

Add to this a medley of masked bank account numbers, government ID images like driver’s licenses, and even sensitive account data including balance snapshots and transaction histories. And just to keep things spicy, there were some internal corporate documents that the rogue employees had access to. It was a potpourri of sensitive information that would make any cybercriminal’s palette tingle with excitement.

However, let’s take a moment to breathe a sigh of relief here—Coinbase quickly reassured everyone that no passwords, private keys, or actual funds had been compromised. Their Prime accounts, hot wallets, and cold wallets remained untouched, indicating that not all was lost in this audacious breach—but the risks were clearly staggering.

### The Fallout and How Coinbase Responded

Upon uncovering this nefarious act, Coinbase received a threatening email demanding $20 million to keep the stolen info hidden. Instead of caving to the pressure, the company took a stand, refusing to pay the ransom. In a bold twist that could inspire its own narrative, Coinbase issued a $20 million reward for anyone who could help catch these cyber villains. Reminds me of old Western films where the good folks stand up against the lawlessness, doesn’t it?

In another commendable move, Coinbase pledged to reimburse customers who fell victim to the social engineering attacks facilitated by the stolen data. It’s one thing to be victimized by rogue agents, but to be victimized out of your own wallets? That’s a whole new level of heinousness.

But that wasn’t the end of their response. In light of this breach, Coinbase is pulling out all the stops, ramping up security measures significantly. A new U.S.-based support hub is being established, effectively reducing reliance on overseas staff. This proactive measure is a coup de maître in safeguarding sensitive information.

### The Financial Implications

Of course, the financial hangover from this debacle is not to be taken lightly. Coinbase estimates that the costs associated with remediation, customer reimbursements, and related expenses could soar anywhere from $180 million to a whopping $400 million. This range seems broad, but in the frenetic world of cybersecurity, predicting precise figures can be as slippery as a greased pig!

In response to the breach, Coinbase didn’t just sit back; their stocks took a nosedive following the news, plummeting more than six percent, reminding us all just how intertwined security concerns and market confidence can be.

### Legal and Regulatory Ramifications

Naturally, the incident didn’t go unnoticed by regulators and legal watchdogs. Coinbase dutifully reported the breach to U.S. regulators and promptly filed a notice with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)—a necessary and responsible move in the landscape of legal compliance. Moreover, it triggered class action investigations surrounding potential privacy violations and insider misconduct, because why stop at one investigation when you can open the floodgates of scrutiny?

### Key Takeaways

Let’s distill the essence of this smorgasbord of a story. What can we extract from this unfortunate saga?

– A handful of employees, tempted by quick cash, colluded to steal customer data.
– The compromised data included a wealth of personally identifiable information but fortunately did not include passwords or private keys.
– Cybercriminals attempted an extortion play for $20 million, which Coinbase wisely rejected.
– Coinbase responded with a $20 million bounty for information leading to their capture.
– Estimated remediation costs could skyrocket up to $400 million, a figure that underscores the high-stakes world of cybersecurity.
– Coinbase is reinforcing its security measures and transitioning to a U.S.-based support structure to mitigate future risks.

This incident serves as a potent reminder of the persistent threats faced by cryptocurrency platforms, particularly the complex interplay of insider threats and the sophisticated social engineering tactics they can employ. Coinbase’s transparent response and refusal to bend to the pressures of extortion are commendable, but the repercussions echo throughout the industry.

In this ever-evolving digital realm, vigilance is paramount—especially for engagers of cryptocurrency who find themselves entangled in the web of bad actors. Users should keep their guard up against phishing attempts and scams masquerading as trustworthy service providers like Coinbase.

If this narrative has piqued your interest and ignited a desire to stay on top of the breaking news in the realm of neural networks and automation—because who doesn’t want to be the smartest cookie in the jar?—join the ranks of informed readers. Want to stay up to date with the latest news on neural networks and automation? Subscribe to our Telegram channel: @ethicadvizor

Interlocked electrodes push silicon battery lifespan beyond limits

Discover how interlocked electrodes are revolutionizing the silicon battery industry by significantly extending their lifespan. This innovative technology pushes the boundaries of energy storage, offering improved performance and durability for various applications. Learn about the mechanisms behind this advancement and its potential to transform battery technology as we know it. Explore the future of sustainable energy storage solutions with these groundbreaking interlocked electrodes.

Salesforce Introduces Flexible Payment Options for AI Tools – Bloomberg

Salesforce is shaking the very foundations of corporate life with a revolutionary twist on how companies can interact with the world of AI. No longer are we bound to outdated pricing models that tie us down, forcing businesses to navigate the murky waters of one-size-fits-all solutions. Enter Salesforce’s latest innovation — the game-changing “Flex Credits” model designed for its astonishing AI tools, especially for its Agentforce. If you thought AI was just about robots taking over, hold onto your caffeine-infused coffee cups; we’re entering a thrilling new world where flexibility reigns supreme, and innovation is at the wheel.

Imagine this: your business, regardless of its size or structure, can integrate AI tools across every department. Customer service, marketing, sales – you name it. Salesforce is handing over the keys to the kingdom with an approach that allows for tailored AI integration and payment that grows alongside your evolving needs. Instead of spending precious resources on hefty licenses before you even know how to effectively use these cutting-edge tools, you can now dip your toes in the AI pool. Start small, experiment freely, and then scale up as your confidence (and your business outcomes) grow. That’s the future of AI — fluid, adaptable, and bonafide.

But why should we really care, you ask? Well, it completely recalibrates how businesses can innovate. Gone are the days where only tech giants had the luxury of harnessing complex AI systems. Thanks to Salesforce, a small misfit startup can now outpace a Goliath by leveraging the very tools that were previously parked in fancy corporate garages. From enhancing customer interactions to streamlining sales processes and even managing nail-biting marketing campaigns, the new model makes Salesforce’s AI offerings accessible to everyone. Let’s face it, anyone who has worked in a company knows the struggle of navigating rudimentary systems. This innovation ensures that every possible avenue is exploited for productivity and creativity.

Salesforce’s AI isn’t merely about automation; it’s about a seismic shift in how companies do business. Picture one of their flagship tools — Einstein GPT — not just as an impressive name, but as a powerhouse that redefines customer interaction. It’s like if your coffee machine suddenly turned into a barista that not only knows your favorite brew but predicts your caffeine needs before you even roll out of bed. Automated content creation, predictive analytics, it’s all there! Businesses can now sidestep the guesswork and rely on data-driven insights that scream efficiency and confidence.

As we cruise into 2025 and beyond, it’s clear that Salesforce isn’t merely riding the AI wave; it’s cracking the whip at the helm. The future beckons with promises of proactive customer engagement and automated workflow optimizations that beg to be explored. This is not a run-of-the-mill CRM tool; Salesforce is carving out a landscape where companies, regardless of their stature, can thrive and redefine their customer landscapes.

So what’s the deal with this newfound flexibility? It’s like being invited to an all-you-can-eat buffet without the dreadful fear of running up a massive bill. This pricing model dares you to plunge into the world of AI instead of fidgeting like a deer in headlights. It encourages creativity, risk-taking, and experimentation — the very trends that will propel businesses into a brilliant future. This is the invitation to dive in, to unfurl the sails of innovation, and to chart your own path in a landscape that is forever being molded and reshaped by technological advancement.

How does this translate to you? Whether you are a budding startup attempting to break free from the startup grind or a well-oiled corporate machine looking to push the boundaries of innovation, Salesforce is extending its arm, beckoning you to step into the future. Engage with AI in ways previously confined to the realms of science fiction. Drastically rethink those business models sitting in dusty folders; they could definitely use a revamp in light of these new possibilities.

In conclusion, the horizon gleams with potential as Salesforce blazes the path towards a new normal in AI integration and business operations. This isn’t merely about purchasing licenses; it’s about embracing a whole-new way of operating — one that is dynamic, responsive, and tailored to the hybrid realities of today’s business landscape.

Want to stay in the loop with the latest trends, insights, and news on AI and business transformations? Don’t miss out—subscribe to our Telegram channel: @ethicadvizor.

Vision-language models can’t handle queries with negation words, study shows

This article delves into a recent study highlighting a critical limitation of vision-language models: their inability to effectively process and understand queries that contain negation words. As these models become increasingly prevalent in AI applications, the findings raise important questions about their reliability and comprehensiveness. The study reveals the challenges these models face in accurately interpreting negations, which could impact their usability in real-world scenarios. By examining the implications of these findings, the article sheds light on the need for advancements in AI technologies to better handle complex linguistic structures, ultimately improving the performance of vision-language models in diverse applications.

Introducing Muscle-Mem: A Behavior Cache for AI Agents | Hacker News

### Unveiling Muscle-Mem: The AI’s Version of Muscle Memory

Picture this: a world where artificial intelligence (AI) agents learn and execute complex tasks with the instinctual flair of human muscle memory. A dream? Certainly seems that way—until you meet **Muscle-Mem**. This nifty Python SDK is revolutionizing AI, not by shouting the same tired slogans but by introducing a smart caching mechanism that’s more efficient than your average vending machine. Gone is the dependency on expansive language models (LLMs) and their wallet-draining costs. Let’s dive into how this delightful innovation works!

How does Muscle-Mem manage to juggle all those learning curves? Well, imagine an AI agent navigating through a maze. Instead of frantically ping-ponging back to square one each time it hits a wall, the agent pulls out its trusty toolbox. Muscle-Mem records the agent’s tool-calling patterns as it navigates various tasks, transforming these actions into cached behaviors it can replay later. This means when the agent encounters familiar territory, it doesn’t panic. Instead, it confidently zips through the maze like a seasoned pro, utilizing those learned trajectories to conquer the task in record time. And should it stumble into fresh, uncharted ground? No sweat! The agent simply crashes back into thinking mode, solving the challenge afresh when needed. It’s sort of like that JIT compiler tech we keep hearing about—except we’re optimizing the action, not just the code.

Now, let’s talk turkey: what’s in this for us? Buckle up, folks.

– **Efficiency and Speed**: Muscle-Mem turns AI agents into lean, mean, task-executing machines. No more dilly-dallying around with clunky LLMs; the caching allows those agents to strut their stuff faster than you can say “optimization.”
– **Cost Savings**: Ah, yes—the golden goose of cost-effectiveness. By dialing back on LLM reliance, you can wave goodbye to the astronomical fees associated with token usage. Your budget will thank you!
– **Flexibility**: Whether it’s a familiar task or some wild new challenge, Muscle-Mem doesn’t judge. It adapts effortlessly, ensuring that AI agents are never caught off guard. Talk about a workplace MVP!

So, where does the rubber meet the road? The possibilities are endless, my friends.

**Education**: Imagine personalized learning experiences where AI agents mold themselves to individual student needs, serving up tailored content on demand just like a savvy bartender shaking up a perfect cocktail.

**Data Processing**: For those incessantly repetitive tasks that haunt our workdays, Muscle-Mem can take efficiency to the next level, turning mind-numbing processes into fluid operations where the data flows like a well-tuned orchestra.

**Automation**: In the bustling world of manufacturing and logistics, Muscle-Mem takes the driver’s seat, automatically streamlining tasks and slicing operational costs while boosting productivity. Who wouldn’t want a tireless robot assistant humming along, getting things done?

As we gaze toward the horizon of AI evolution, technologies like Muscle-Mem are positioned to be front-row players. By embedding caching strategies right into the DNA of AI architectures, developers have a golden ticket to build systems that are not just resilient but downright sprightly. This opens up new doors for real-time applications, rippling out innovation waves that could transform industries overnight.

In conclusion, Muscle-Mem isn’t just a step forward; it’s a giant leap that revolutionizes AI performance as we know it. Whether you find yourself enamored with the magic of neural networks or simply curious about technology’s ever-expanding grip on our lives, now’s the time to dig in and stay informed about these groundbreaking advancements.

Want to stay up to date with the latest news on neural networks and automation? Subscribe to our Telegram channel: @ethicadvizor. Join the conversation; the future is waiting!

Europe backs generative AI to drive clean energy transformation

Discover how Europe is leveraging generative AI to revolutionize the clean energy sector. This article explores the innovative strategies and initiatives that support the integration of advanced AI technologies to promote sustainable energy solutions. Learn about the impact of generative AI in enhancing efficiency, driving down costs, and facilitating the transition to greener energy sources in Europe. Stay informed on this transformative intersection of technology and environmental sustainability, and understand the vital role generative AI plays in shaping a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Raiinmaker and ElizaOS Unite to Launch TRAIIN AGENT: Transforming Ethical Practices

### Raiinmaker & ElizaOS Team Up for TRAIIN AGENT: The Next Big Thing in Ethical AI Training

In a universe increasingly drenched in artificial intelligence, the ethical training and deployment of such digital minions have flipped from being a niche concern to a burning topic. Enter the power duo of innovation: **Raiinmaker** and **ElizaOS**. Together, they’ve concocted a fiery potion called **TRAIIN AGENT**, a platform destined to flip the AI training script upside down. This isn’t just a new tech gadget to add to your pile; it’s a revolutionary leap— a clarion call for the democratization of artificial intelligence and a robust framework for accountability and integrity in its deployment.

Raiinmaker’s prowess in crafting AI solutions blends seamlessly with ElizaOS’s legacy of creating expansive AI ecosystems. The combination signals a big shift; TRAIIN AGENT isn’t just another addition to the AI assembly line but a commitment to cloaking AI development in layers of ethics and transparency. With a sprawling network of over 450,000 validators, this platform ensures that AI’s crucial models undergo meticulous scrutiny. Gone are the days of poorly nuanced AI trained on biased data. Say hello to a future where machines mimic the world’s chaotic beauty while remaining faithful to ethical standards—how poetic!

#### Glittering Features of TRAIIN AGENT

TRAIIN AGENT cashes in on several standout features that take a sledgehammer to the status quo of AI training, shaking up the foundations of conventional platforms:

– **AI Reputation Scoring**: Imagine being able to eyeball the ethical bars of AI models. TRAIIN AGENT’s scoring mechanism tracks and assesses each model’s behavior, ensuring they strut their stuff with flawless integrity.

– **Metadata-Backed Verification**: By weaving metadata through the verification process, this platform hands you not just results but a treasure map to trace them back. Say goodbye to half-baked claims with no roots!

– **Cross-Platform Integration**: It doesn’t matter whether you’re working in one system or juggling several; TRAIIN AGENT’s elegant design allows for seamless integration. Think of it as the universal remote for AI development—the bridge over troubled waters.

– **Human-in-the-Loop (HITL) Validation**: The brains behind the curtain want to ensure sanity prevails. By weaving human oversight into AI model validation, they’re not leaving it all up to the cold algorithms—thank goodness!

#### Tackling Ethical Conundrums on the AI Highway

As the quagmire of AI technology expands, lurking concerns about bias, safety, and accountability swell like an impending storm. Here’s where TRAIIN AGENT spreads its wings, addressing these tricky challenges with a solid ethical backbone. With its reputation-driven consensus system, the platform selects trusted validators to make sure every dataset and output shines bright in accuracy and fairness.

This unique blend of human intelligence and rigorous ethical standards converts TRAIIN AGENT into a beacon for the future. We’re not talking about just powerful digital assistants here—we’re on the cusp of creating responsible and trustworthy AI agents that could serve society rather than dictate terms to it. The collaboration between Raiinmaker and ElizaOS is a commendable stride toward fulfilling the promise of ethical AI solutions, setting benchmarks that’ll have competitors racing to catch up.

#### The Road Ahead

TRAIIN AGENT is more than just a shiny dime in the vast sea of tech innovations—it’s a grassroots movement nudging us toward accountable and ethical AI practices. Whether you’re an enterprise gearing up to sprinkle AI magic into your operational mix or a developer eager to sculpt ethical AI tools, TRAIIN AGENT hands you a versatile toolkit to achieve your aspirations, all while tethered to moral standards.

A lingering question remains: as AI continues to seep deeper into our lives, will we let it evolve unchecked, or will we seize the reins? TRAIIN AGENT offers a promising path forward, but it demands engagement from all of us.

Curious about what’s happening next in the landscape of AI and technology? Want to keep your finger on the pulse of AI’s rapid growth? Don’t miss out; subscribe to our Telegram channel: @ethicadvizor. Be part of the conversation as we navigate the exhilarating, and at times concerning, world of innovation. It’s about time we learn how to steer this ship together!

Like humans, ChatGPT favors examples and ‘memories,’ not rules, to generate language

В этой статье исследуется, как ChatGPT, подобно человеку, предпочитает использовать примеры и “воспоминания” вместо строгих правил для генерации языка. Мы разобрали, каким образом модели ИИ черпают вдохновение из контекста, чтобы создавать более естественные и разнообразные ответы. Узнайте, как эта особенность влияет на качество общения с пользователями и что это означает для будущего взаимодействия между людьми и искусственным интеллектом.

Bill McDermott Embraces AI Transformation: Apps Evolving into CRUD Agents – Cloud Wars

### Bill McDermott Channels Satya Nadella: The AI Revolution

Ah, welcome one and all to the latest chapter in the saga of our time, where two titans of industry, Bill McDermott of ServiceNow and Satya Nadella of Microsoft, take the stage to declare that AI is no longer a futuristic dream but the new logic layer pulsating at the heart of our business applications. Forget conventions where apps merely fulfill CRUD operations—Create, Read, Update, Delete. The landscape is shifting, and it’s about to get wild. As these tech visionaries picture it, AI agents are not just sidekicks; they are stepping up to orchestrate operations, traverse databases, and redefine the very essence of what software can do.

Picture McDermott, in a room filled with forward-thinkers, exclaiming that AI is “civilization’s greatest opportunity of this century.” It almost feels like a call to arms, doesn’t it? Research from IDC dazzles with predictions of a $22 trillion market by 2030, a fortune that would make King Midas weep green tears of envy. However, there’s a catch: only a quarter of enterprises have successfully realized tangible returns on their digital transformations. It’s like showing up to a grand feast only to find that the turkey is still frozen—outrageous! Businesses are craving solutions that aren’t just flashy but effective.

Now, before we go full-throttle into the impact AI agents are having, let us savor the competitive brawl that’s brewing between the likes of ServiceNow and Salesforce. Each firm is hustling to position itself as the undisputed champion of AI agent operations—each one envisioning a unified platform to dominate the workflow narrative. McDermott recently flung his hat into the ring with a bold announcement of a new AI platform and a radically re-envisioned CRM system. The aim here is not just integration; it’s about creating a harmonious ecosystem where AI sweeps through every corner of enterprise functions, rocking the boat of traditional SaaS.

### The Impact of AI Agents

Imagine AI agents not merely as simple tools but as potential game-changers, forcing businesses to re-evaluate their very structures and compliance blueprints. Nadella has illuminated the path here: once AI takes the reins as the logic layer, you can wave goodbye to clunky, siloed backend systems. The landscape is demanding a metamorphosis toward AI-native designs—a shift that feels more like a revolution in our tech DNA than a mere upgrade.

And so, it is no surprise that both ServiceNow and Microsoft are passionately advocating for cohesive ecosystems, where apps are no longer left to wander in isolation. The urgency is palpable. McDermott exclaimed, “21st century problems cannot be solved with 20th century architectures.” Amen to that! It’s about time we stopped trying to fit square pegs into round holes. The spotlight is shifting dramatically towards platforms that embrace AI as the backbone of their operation, transforming archaic workflows into streamlined, intelligent processes.

### The Future of Business Applications

We are standing at the edge of a cliff, peering into an abyss filled with unprecedented potential. The competition is fierce; the stakes are sky-high, and companies like ServiceNow and Salesforce are not merely dipping their toes in the water but are diving in headfirst to stake their claims on this brave new world. Analysts, with their crystal balls, suggest this rivalry could prove beneficial, allowing both contenders to explore innovative revenue pathways while ensuring they survive in an increasingly turbulent digital landscape.

But let’s get real for a moment. The comfort zones of yesterday, where old architectures ruled, are not only outdated but utterly unnecessary. Instead, we now require platforms that can integrate AI without friction across every function in their operations. The struggle to become the conductor of this AI symphony is well underway—and those who adapt wisely will triumph. What these companies achieve here could translate into experiences that feel almost magical—interaction with technology that feels akin to conversing with a trusted confidant rather than just pushing buttons.

As we traverse this exhilarating terrain together, it becomes crystal clear: the clock is ticking. The integration of AI agents into business applications isn’t a mere enhancement; it’s a revolution. They promise to transform work as we know it while kicking old-fashioned paradigms to the curb. Are you ready to join this fascinating escapade into the feast of possibilities that AI brings?

### Conclusion

Along with McDermott and Nadella, we find ourselves at the cusp of a monumental shift. The intertwined futures of enterprise software and AI beckon us to adapt, innovate, and perhaps throw caution to the wind. The real question lies ahead: How will companies forge their destinies in this new landscape? The race is in full swing, and for anyone still hesitant, let me assure you—the stakes are not just high; they’re exhilaratingly monumental.

Want to stay up to date with the latest news on neural networks and automation? Subscribe to our Telegram channel: @ethicadvizor. The revolution is here; don’t just hear about it—be part of it!

How water vapor is powering the next generation of soft robots

Discover how water vapor is revolutionizing the field of robotics in our latest article. Delve into the cutting-edge research and advancements that are enabling soft robots to harness the power of water vapor for enhanced performance and flexibility. Learn about the innovative materials and mechanisms that are transforming the landscape of robotics, making these agile and responsive machines a promising solution for a variety of applications. Join us as we explore the potential of water vapor in powering the next generation of soft robots and what this means for the future of technology.