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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Continental is preparing to appear at this year’s TOC Europe with a combined offering of advanced tyres and digital management tools. The company’s presence at the event will emphasise its drive to make port logistics both high-performing and resource-conscious.

The exhibition lineup is built around the theme ‘Driven by Excellence’, featuring the ContiConnect digital tyre platform alongside the new DockMaster Radial tyre. The latter is a purpose-built product for harsh port environments, including automated guided vehicles, reach stackers and heavy forklifts. A company representative has explained that every solution is tailored directly to real customer needs in port operations, blending tyre engineering with data services to enable more energy-efficient and digitally managed workflows.

TOC Europe 2026 will run from 19 to 21 May at the Hamburg exhibition grounds. Continental will receive visitors in Hall B6 at Booth B44, where the focus will fall on operational safety, sustainability and efficiency gains.

ContiConnect plays a central role in cutting tyre management costs and streamlining fleet operations. Properly managed tyre pressure can lower fuel use by up to two percent, while continuous monitoring extends tyre life by as much as 20 percent, simultaneously reducing carbon emissions and operating expenses. The system comes in two forms. ContiConnect Lite is a mobile, app-based entry tool requiring no extra infrastructure, whereas ContiConnect Pro delivers real-time data, automated reports and system integration for large fleets.

The DockMaster Radial tyre stands out for its durable, efficient and robust design. A large footprint and maximised tread volume prolong service life, while the radial build lowers heat buildup over long travel distances. Its rolling resistance is lower than that of bias-ply tyres, improving energy efficiency. An integrated sensor tracks both temperature and inflation pressure, while a specialised rubber compound resists cuts, abrasion and cracking. This makes the tyre especially suitable for intense applications with extended operating ranges and punishing ground surfaces.

Beyond products, Continental offers a data-led tyre consulting service to lower total ownership costs and improve resource use. Experts analyse operational data including distance, speed and active cycle time to advise on vehicle deployment, route planning and tyre selection. Detailed usage studies help match the right tyre to each application, reducing premature failures, extending tyre life and delivering clear efficiency improvements for port operators.

Federico Jiménez, Head of Business Development and Product Management for Continental’s Commercial Specialty Tires, said, “We consistently align our solutions with the requirements of our customers in port operations. With our combination of innovative tyre technology and data-driven services, we enable more energy-efficient, digital, and therefore more efficient operations.”

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Pirelli returns to the Nürburgring for the 2026 edition, building on strong results from the previous year. In the SP9 class for GT3 cars, several high-profile entries have selected Pirelli P Zero tyres, including the Porsche entries from Dinamic, three Aston Martins from Walkenhorst and Dörr’s number 69 McLaren featuring a Michael Schumacher tribute livery. A historic BMW Z4 GT3 and numerous GT4 cars, such as Dörr’s number 59, are also equipped with Pirelli rubber.

Beyond sharing Pirelli P Zero tyres, some cars will also display the manufacturer’s signature yellow and black colours through special liveries. The two Dinamic Porsches, one Walkenhorst Aston Martin and Dörr’s number 59 will race with these designs, highlighting a deep technological collaboration with Pirelli. For wet conditions, crews have Pirelli Cinturato tyres available, while the GT4 cars use standard DHG and WHB tyres designed for all GT categories.

AUTO BILD will celebrate its 40th anniversary at the Nürburgring 24-hour race, welcoming selected guests inside the Pirelli Hospitality area in the paddock.

Matteo Braga, Pirelli Racing Activity Manager, said, “The Nürburgring has traditionally been a benchmark for everyone and the ideal track on which to test innovative and demanding solutions, as well as an opportunity to consolidate our research work side by side with professional partners who this year have chosen to celebrate our collaboration by bringing Pirelli colours onto their liveries. In this edition of the 24 Hours, the level of competitiveness and the record number of cars entered will make the weekend particularly demanding. As always, I expect a closely fought race in every category, full of uncertainty and open to every possible outcome until the very end. We are supporting combative, high-quality teams that have everything they need to make their mark.”

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Sri Trang Agro-Industry Public Company Limited (STA) recently hosted the ‘Sri Trang Exclusive Night 2026’ at the Hard Rock Cafe Chidlom in Bangkok. The gathering served as a gesture of gratitude towards the company’s global customers and business partners while showcasing STA’s future vision centred on artificial intelligence, innovation and sustainable development within an atmosphere of international camaraderie.

The event featured senior leadership, including group Chief Executive Officer Veerasith Sinchareonkul, executive directors Chaiyos Sincharoenkul and Vitchaphol Sincharoenkul, Sri Trang International CEO Lee Tristan Chee-Zen and Chief Marketing Officer Nattee Thiraputhbhokin. Together, they welcomed partners from numerous countries worldwide.

A central theme, ‘Empowering AI’, highlighted STA’s strategic direction to integrate AI and data analytics across supply chain management, market analysis and customer solution development. This approach aims to respond accurately and flexibly to shifting global markets. STA also reinforced its role as a collaborative business partner, working with customers to solve problems, enhance efficiency, reduce risks and build sustainability throughout the supply chain, thereby strengthening Thailand’s natural rubber industry globally.

Additionally, STA underscored its commitment to transparency, traceability and responsible supply chain practices for long-term stability. As the company approaches its 40th year, the event not only acknowledged loyal support but also demonstrated STA’s readiness to advance through technology, innovation, and global cooperation.

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Titan International has formally entered the rubber track market, a strategic expansion of its product lineup long requested by its customer base. The new Titan Rubber Tracks represent the brand’s first move beyond wheels and tyres, specifically engineered for compact track loaders and mini excavators. This launch introduces an entirely new category for the company, aiming to meet rising demand in tracked compact equipment applications.

The role of tracked machinery continues to grow across construction and rental sectors, where traction and uptime are paramount. Rather than follow industry norms, Titan developed a proprietary premium rubber compound for its tracks, prioritising durability through internal and field evaluations. Extensive testing across varied conditions and multiple regions gathered positive user feedback, with thousands of operational hours confirming reliable performance and longevity.

Both equipment dealers and end users stand to gain from the new line. Dealers receive a high-quality track solution suitable for recommendation, stocking and service support, while operators benefit from a design focused on minimising downtime. The launch encompasses nearly 60 SKUs spread across five tread patterns, fitting over 950 machine models and more than 1,500 specific fitments.

Tread options address mixed surfaces, soft ground, high-impact job sites and general-purpose use. Inventory will reside at Titan’s Des Moines facility to ensure prompt service for OEM and aftermarket needs. Following internal previews at Titan University 2026 and a public debut at the 2026 National Farm Machinery Show, Titan Rubber Tracks are now available for ordering.

Travis Little, General Manager, Ag, Construction and Industrial, said, “Our customers have been asking for Titan to enter this space, but we needed to make sure our tracks are as tough as our tyres. We’ve combined our rubber and engineering expertise to develop a rubber track option that meets our standards and works for our customers. We could have entered the rubber track market sooner, but we wanted to take the time to launch a product worthy of the Titan name. By working with our rubber compounding and engineering teams, we focused on providing a track designed for long-term performance, and we’re confident this is the product our customers have been looking for.”

Chris Smith, Product Engineer, Agriculture, Construction and Industrial, said, “Across all field tests, we have no reports of carcass delamination, guide separation or structural failure, even beyond the above-average expected hours in multiple cases. Testing was also conducted at blue-chip OEM manufacturers where Titan Rubber Tracks exceeded testing requirements on internal durability and high-stress conditions testing.”

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