Due to COVID-19 pandemic, work-from-home using internet has become a growing way of connecting with associates and clients. This year, internet use has nearly doubled, due to work-from-home and lockdowns. But internet is a risky environment, especially when connecting your mobile devices to a public network. You are at an airport and connect to its public Wi-Fi network. But you are unaware that there is a hacker lurking around the corner, monitoring the internet traffic and ready to hack into your personal account. It is estimated that there are over 450 million public Wi-Fi hotspots globally, offering a rich hunting ground for cyber criminals.  

Cyber specialists tell us that currently there are more than 375 malicious threats PER MINUTE and growing. Mobile malware threats grew by a whopping 70% in Q1-2020 over Q3-2019! Cyber criminals have generated 113,000+ malicious URL’s related to COVID-19, targeting healthcare, education and banking in particular. Cybercriminals steal personal and company information by hacking into our susceptible computers and mobile devices. Cyber-attacks are especially devastating for small businesses - industry data shows that a staggering 60% of small companies, which have been hacked by cyber criminals, go out of business within 6 months after the attack.

While business operations, from conceiving an idea to its final delivery to the user, are going digital at breakneck speed, the entire operational areas remain vulnerable to cyber malfunctioning in one form or other. This impact the operations very hard short-term as well as long-term. Cyber security threats can be due to inherent flaws within the system. But the possibility of deliberate cyber-attacks and hacking from one source or the other is abundant. As competition and market battles hot up, this remains a real danger.

The risk covers a large area. One of the biggest threats is the compromising of vital data. This includes important technical details, hard-earned market information, customer information etc. Loss of data can bring the operation to a halt at great financial impact. As hinted, the problem can be due to malfunctioning of the software or external interference to steal the data.

Either way, the cost of recovery is immense, not to talk about the time lost in the process. Hidden or not, these expenses will have a big role in fixing the final profit and loss accounts.

Adding to this is the loss of credibility of the business. The output will be negatively impacted and the company will have to do great degree of explanations to the customer. It is an equal task to recover lost data and to recover lost credibility. Consumers have other options and look elsewhere. But the company cannot afford that luxury.

While the margin for deliberate external intrusion possibilities remains large, many of these security breaches are caused by human error. One needs to realise that however deep an entity goes digital, there is always that unavoidable human touch that makes it run. AND, to err is human!

This underlines the need for proper intense training. There are studies that say employee ignorance is one of the leading contributors. Workers may know the essential basics of an application, but that does not make him or her a cyber security expert. While the IT departments execute a new cloud computing initiative or new application software, they have to ensure that those handle it on a daily basis are equipped to manage a crisis.

Types of cyber threats

Cyber threats are ever-evolving and cybercriminals use different types of malware to get what they want. Malware is an abbreviated form of “malicious software.” This is software that is specifically designed to gain access to or damage a digital device, usually without the knowledge of the owner.

Crypto jacking: Malware that gives cybercriminals access to “mine” cryptocurrency on your computer, at the expense of your resources.

Form jacking: Malware in which cybercriminals inject malicious code into online forms to steal payment card details on legitimate websites.

Ransomware: It is a malicious software that uses encryption to hold data for ransom, the purpose of which is to extort money from the victims with promises of restoring encrypted data. Like other computer viruses, it usually finds its way onto a device by exploiting a security hole in vulnerable software or by tricking somebody into installing it.

Phishing: These are fake emails that can look surprisingly legitimate. If you get tricked into clicking a link or providing information, thieves can get your passwords and account numbers.

Zoom Bombing: Intruders hack into online meetings.

Remote Access Trojans (RAT): Malware that gives a cybercriminal a “back door” to remotely access a compromised computer.

Spyware: It is unwanted software that infiltrates your device, stealing your Internet usage data and sensitive information. Spyware gathers your personal information and relays it to advertisers, data firms, or external users.

Dark web: It is an underground online community where criminals can go to buy and sell your personal information.

Defense

All digital devices need to be protected using a highly-rated, proven anti-virus program. These programs provide a shield for your operating system in the form of a real-time scanner. When your antivirus program detects an infected file or program, it can delete it on the spot or move it to a special "quarantine" folder. When your antivirus quarantines a file, it prevents it from interacting with the rest of the computer.

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates a private network within a broader network, adding security by using encryption and tunneling mechanisms. There are some free VPN products available, but these may trade your information to help offset their costs, or impose other limitations, such as how much VPN data available per month. A paid subscription service may enable you to deploy a powerful, yet easy-to-use VPN that protects your Wi-Fi connections, bandwidth and privacy with guarantees against any losses. These VPN’s work with all digital devices - PCs, Macs, smartphones and tablets.

It goes without saying that users of all digital devices that use Wi-Fi connectivity must become more mindful of cybersecurity needs, and companies must invest in security programs and ongoing employee training.

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The DUNLOP ALL SEASON 2 tyre has earned a ‘very good’ rating in the 2026 all-season tyre test conducted by the Automobilclub von Deutschland (AvD). Evaluated against 11 rival all-season tyres spanning premium, mid-range and budget brands, it performed strongly across every category, including wet and dry driving performance. The tyre stood out particularly for its snow performance, efficiency, wear and other environmental considerations. As the lightest tyre in the AvD test, it also achieved the best result for rolling resistance, which directly influences fuel efficiency.

Its overall performance places it among the very best all-weather tyres tested by the AvD this year. With a score of 4.37 stars out of 5, it secured a ‘very good’ rating alongside four other tyres, all of which were more expensive at the time of testing. The AvD examined 12 different 225/50 R17 tyres, one of Europe’s most popular tyre sizes, to assess safety-related handling characteristics across a broad range of driving conditions. All tyres were fitted to a BMW 3-Series and purchased via the open market to ensure independence, with testing carried out between the AvD and TEMPOTIRE, an independent testing organisation.

A strong rating in the annual AvD all-weather tyre test is an important marker of trust in Germany and many other European markets. The test is notably thorough, with tyres rated on a five-star system for braking, traction and handling performance in all conditions, subjective handling performance, aquaplaning in the wet and noise levels and rolling comfort in the dry. It also covers environmental factors such as tyre weight, wear, fuel efficiency, emissions levels and rolling resistance.

The DUNLOP ALL SEASON 2 is engineered to deliver confident driving throughout the year and suits owners of cars and SUVs who prefer not to change their vehicles’ tyres with the seasons. It is available in 74 sizes, ranging from 14 to 20 inches in diameter. Its advanced compound and distinctive V-shaped tread design with three-dimensional interlocking sipes improve braking stability on wet and dry surfaces while creating numerous ‘biting’ edges that can aid traction and grip in snow. A reinforced structure enhances tyre stability, contributing to confident handling on wet and dry roads. Crucially, every variant adheres to Europe’s official Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) legal standards, meeting the official legal requirements for use throughout winter in European countries and regions where winter tyres are legally mandated, such as Germany and Sweden.

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Goodyear is all geared up for the European Le Mans Series season finale, the 4 Hours of Portimão, supplying its Racing Eagle tyres across LMP2, LMP2 Pro/Am and LMGT3. The Autódromo Internacional do Algarve hosts the decisive round, with its dramatic elevation shifts and technical layout through the Algarve hills expected to produce moderate tyre wear over four hours.

In LMGT3, the Medium specification could enable single-stint strategies, letting competitors maximise pace throughout. For LMP2 and LMP2 Pro/Am, the same Medium compound is built to deliver the consistency needed for double-stint running.

With championships undecided in all three categories, tyre strategy will prove pivotal. LMGT3 leaders Iron Lynx hold just three points over TF Sport, while United Autosports lead Forestier Racing by Panis by 13 in LMP2. The LMP2 Pro/Am top four sit within six points, AF Corse setting the pace.

Portimão also closes the second season of Goodyear Racing's newest Eagle Medium LMP2 specification, now well understood after extensive European Le Mans Series use and two Le Mans outings. It marks the final LMGT3 run for the current Eagle before a more sustainable generation arrives in 2027. Goodyear Racing Eagle tyres additionally feature this weekend at Charlotte in NASCAR and Brands Hatch's British Touring Car Championship finale.

Stephen Bickley, Goodyear Endurance Program Manager, said, “Portimão is a fitting place to bring the European Le Mans Series season to a close. The undulating circuit combines dramatic elevation changes with high-speed corners and more twisty, technical sections, so we expect moderate levels of tyre wear and degradation. It looks like a hot and sunny race awaits us on Sunday, but should wet weather arrive, teams do have Goodyear Racing Eagle wet tyres available.

“It is significant that the LMGT3 field will use our current Goodyear Racing Eagle slick specification for the final time in the series this weekend. Next season, we will introduce a new generation of tyres with 66 percent sustainable-material content, continuing our focus on performance at the highest level of endurance racing.”

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Maxion İnci Wheel Group, a joint venture between Maxion Wheels and İnci Holding, has inaugurated Formare Türkiye alongside the Iochpe Foundation of Brazil, the İnci Foundation and Manisa Celal Bayar University. A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the opening of the new Formare Learning Center in Manisa. Originally established by the Iochpe Foundation in Brazil over three decades ago, Formare is a professional qualification initiative that merges classroom instruction with practical industrial experience, aiming to improve the prospects of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Türkiye becomes the first European nation to implement the programme and the fifth country overall, following Brazil, Mexico, India and Argentina. This launch is seen as a significant move towards boosting youth employability, social inclusion and hands-on learning in the country. It also underscores Maxion İnci Wheel Group's capacity to bridge industry, academia and society within the region.

The selection of Türkiye for this expansion was driven by its robust industrial sector, the presence of six manufacturing plants in Manisa, a well-developed vocational education system and the dedication of all partners to Formare's social mission. The initiative demonstrates the Iochpe and İnci Foundations' shared resolve to create opportunities for young people by reinforcing the link between education and employment. Formare Türkiye tailors the programme's established approach to local conditions, delivering benefits to students, businesses and the wider community.

The inaugural group consists of 16 students between the ages of 18 and 23, drawn from Manisa Vocational School of Technical Sciences and the Department of Machinery and Metal Technologies. Nine of these participants are young women, highlighting Formare's dedication to advancing female talent in technical disciplines. The one-year programme concludes with a participation certificate and combines technical instruction with socio-emotional development, preparing students for corporate expectations. The curriculum was created with Manisa Celal Bayar University and approved by the institution, while the Manisa Organized Industrial Park contributed insights into sectoral requirements. Educators include Maxion İnci Wheel Group staff, external trainers, İnci Foundation volunteers and university academics.

Pieter Klinkers, President and CEO, Iochpe-Maxion, said, “Formare Türkiye reflects our belief that business success must go hand in hand with creating opportunities for our youth and the communities where they live. By bringing together the experience of the Iochpe Foundation, the local strength of Maxion İnci Wheel Group and the academic contribution of Manisa Celal Bayar University, we are helping young people gain the skills and confidence they need for the future.”

Mustafa Zaim, Chairman of the Board of Maxion İnci and Maxion Jantaş, said, “Formare Türkiye is a meaningful example of how industry can contribute to the future by investing in youth. At Maxion İnci Wheel Group, we are proud to support a programme that gives young people the opportunity to gain practical experience, build professional confidence and take stronger steps into working life. We believe this collaboration will create lasting value for our students, our region and our country.”

Claudio Anjos, President, Iochpe Foundation, said, “For more than three decades, Formare has shown how education, practical experience and volunteer engagement can open new paths for young people. The launch in Türkiye brings this proven model into a new context, enriched by the partnership between Maxion İnci Wheel Group and Manisa Celal Bayar University. It is also an opportunity for us to share the experience built in Brazil while continuing to learn from each community where Formare grows.”

Ece Elbirlik Ürkmez, Energy Source, İnci Foundation, said, “As a foundation with 41 years of experience, we are committed to expanding opportunities for young people to become active and productive members of society through education. We believe that education is one of the most powerful tools for creating lasting social impact. Formare Türkiye is particularly meaningful to us as it gives young people the opportunity to discover their potential, gain hands-on experience and step into working life with greater confidence. We are proud to support this collaboration and contribute to a programme that creates value for young people, industry and society.”

Prof Dr Oktay Üçer, Acting Rector, Manisa Celal Bayar University, said, “As Manisa Celal Bayar University, we value Formare Türkiye as a strong step in bringing academic learning closer to the needs of industry. By combining classroom education with practical experience, the programme will help our students develop the skills and perspective required for their professional future. We are pleased to be part of this collaboration, which also strengthens university-industry cooperation in our region.”

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Tegeta Green Planet opened the Light Vehicle Diagnostics course at Tegeta Academy with a presentation for attendees aged 17 to 33. Beyond their chosen vocational field, participants learned about automotive waste management and environmental responsibility.

Shalva Akhvlediani, the organisation’s director, outlined its activities and goals while emphasising Extended Producer Responsibility. The session examined how the automotive sector connects to environmental duty and why used tyres, waste oils and automotive batteries must be collected and managed properly.

Tyre management and RECSOL featured prominently. Attendees traced a used tyre’s path from collection to recycling and learned how waste becomes a source of new resources. RECSOL, Tegeta’s tyre recycling plant, is a significant infrastructure project in used tyre recycling, processing tyres into materials for various uses and supporting circular economy principles.

A core aim is a system where waste is not an endpoint but the starting point for new resources, which requires infrastructure alongside greater public awareness and information on proper disposal. For participants, the meeting linked professional education with environmental awareness, stressing that future automotive professionals should understand this responsibility early.

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