Ticker: Hackers hit R.I benefits system; Big Tech lines up to fund Trump inauguration

Cybercriminals could release personal data of many Rhode Islanders as early as this upcoming week in a major cyberattack that hit the state’s online system for delivering health and human services benefits, Gov. Daniel McKee said.

The hackers are demanding a ransom, officials said without elaborating.

The state urged Rhode Islanders to take action to protect their personal information, which may include names, addresses, dates of birth, Social Security numbers and certain banking information.

Anyone who has been involved in Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program known as SNAP, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, Childcare Assistance Program, Rhode Island Works, Long-term Services and Supports and health insurance purchased through HealthSource RI may be impacted, McKee said.

Big Tech lines up to fund Trump inauguration

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is planning to make a $1 million personal donation to President-Elect Donald Trump’s inauguration fund, joining a number of tech companies and executives who are working to improve their relationships with the incoming administration.

A spokesperson for OpenAI confirmed the move. The announcement comes after Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, said it donated $1 million to the same fund. Amazon also said late last week it plans to donate $1 million.

“President Trump will lead our country into the age of AI, and I am eager to support his efforts to ensure America stays ahead,” Altman said in a statement.

Altman, who is in a legal dispute with rival Elon Musk, has said he is “not that worried” about the Tesla CEO’s influence in the incoming administration.

from Boston Herald https://ift.tt/bjQt5fx