Weekly Roundup 11/17/17

As technology becomes more pervasive, reaching those still unconnected and bridging the digital divide is often a greater challenge. This past week, the Thai government announced a plan to give internet-enabled SIM cards (only internet-enabled, no calls) as part of a new welfare scheme. Paid for by the government and state-owned telecommunications company, these SIM cards hope to provide those currently unconnected with better access to education, employment, and financial opportunities.

In other news:

Blockchain

• Zero-knowledge proof could make blockchain mainstream

Bots

• Email bot thwarts scammers

Cybersecurity

• Google study identifies how email and other accounts get hacked
• U.S. states turn to cyber insurance

Disinformation

• Freedom House report says elections in 18 nations were influenced by misinformation campaigns
• EU looks to experts and public for strategy against disinformation
• Somalialand blocks social media for a false news-free election