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Microsoft Build Kicks Off May 19

When is Microsoft Build?

Microsoft Build, the annual developer conference, will take place from May 19 to 22 in Seattle. While a schedule is yet to be published, the event typically includes a two-hour keynote on the first day, during which the company makes its major announcements, including software and hardware reveals.

How can you watch?

Although the event is still months away, Microsoft has not shared details about attending or viewing the conference. However, the company typically includes options for the public to livestream the keynotes and breakout sessions on its website. If you already know that the date won’t work for you, don’t worry: ZDNET will be covering the announcements and developments in real-time on the site.

Why tune in?

Although Microsoft may not have all the attention OpenAI has in the AI space, it’s been a major player, offering competitive consumer, developer, and enterprise AI solutions, such as its Copilot chatbot. As a result, we expect Microsoft to unveil the latest of its AI offerings, which will likely span its Office 365 applications, AI chatbot, Copilot+ PCs, and developer offerings such as GitHub, Fabric, Azure AI, and Azure DevOps.

What to Expect

Most likely, there will be hardware launches as well. Last year, the day before Microsoft Build, Microsoft unveiled its first consumer AI PCs — the Surface Laptop and Surface Pro. It also unveiled new PCs from its partners, including Acer, Asus, Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Samsung.

Conclusion

Microsoft Build is an exciting event that offers a glimpse into the company’s latest developments in AI, software, and hardware. With the event just months away, we can expect Microsoft to make significant announcements that will shape the future of technology. Whether you’re a developer, business leader, or technology enthusiast, Microsoft Build is an event not to be missed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Microsoft Build?
A: Microsoft Build is the annual developer conference hosted by Microsoft, featuring keynotes, breakout sessions, and product launches.

Q: When is Microsoft Build taking place?
A: Microsoft Build will take place from May 19 to 22 in Seattle.

Q: How can I watch the event?
A: Microsoft will likely provide options for public livestreaming of keynotes and breakout sessions on its website. ZDNET will also cover the announcements and developments in real-time on the site.

Q: What should I expect at Microsoft Build?
A: Expect major announcements on AI, software, and hardware, including new AI offerings, Office 365 applications, and hardware launches.

Bringing Afterlove EP’s World to Life

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Indie Game Afterlove EP: A Bittersweet Tribute to Its Late Creator

A Tragic Premise

Upcoming anime-inspired indie game Afterlove EP is a game in which art imitates life in the saddest way possible. There’s a tragic irony to its premise, as you play as twenty-something musician Rama trying to move on from the death of his girlfriend Cinta, whose voice he continues to hear, while trying to get ready for an important gig that may make or break his band. The game’s original writer and director Fahmi Hasan had suddenly passed away in 2022.

Honoring the Late Developer

"For a while, it felt like we had no direction and no reason to keep going," says technical artist Maxi. "But after some time, we pushed through even though it was really rough, and I think we did our best to honour what he started."

Indonesian Culture and Influences

Part of that vision was the setting of Jakarta, where the late developer was also based (the remote studio Pikselnesia consists of developers working from across Indonesia). Just as Japanese games like Persona 5 and The World Ends With You are examples of Japanese developers showcasing their trendy contemporary culture to the world, so too does Afterlove EP depict the kind of trendy neighbourhoods that Indonesian youth gravitate towards.

Anime and Manga Style

Indeed, Japanese culture is very influential in Indonesian culture, not just in terms of games but visuals, as background artist Pinga mentions to me that the manga Beck: Mongolian Chop Squad was one of Fahmi’s inspirations behind the band element of Afterlove EP’s story. Illustrator Soyatu, whose work already garnered a large following prior to joining Pikselnesia, also cites Japanese manga artists Yasuda Suzuhito and Natsujikei Miyazaki as inspirations.

Authentic Depiction of Diversity

Despite Japanese influences and an anime style, it was also important to authentically depict the diversity of Indonesia, which is a Muslim-majority country. "Indonesia has so many diverse people, so I spent some time researching and trying to discover how Indonesian people might look in an anime-style," Soyatu explains.

Game Development

The game is presented in 2D format with just a handful of locations, Pinga’s backgrounds cover a considerable length, allowing players to traverse them in a side-scrolling fashion rather than just static backdrops you might find in a visual novel. Even then, there’s variations to the visuals, such as for longer dialogue scenes or the rhythm game mini-games.

Conclusion

Although the loss of Fahmi had a major impact on the team, everyone decided to pull together to see his vision through to the end, and the result is bittersweet. "We lost our friend, also a leader at the same time, but the show must go on, so we did our best!" Soyatu concludes. "I’m so happy and relieved the game is coming out, but sad at the same time because Fahmi isn’t with us now. But we did it. It’s for Fahmi, our beloved person."

FAQs

Q: What is the premise of Afterlove EP?
A: The game follows twenty-something musician Rama as he tries to move on from the death of his girlfriend Cinta and get ready for an important gig that may make or break his band.

Q: Who was the original writer and director of Afterlove EP?
A: Fahmi Hasan, who sadly passed away in 2022.

Q: How does the game depict Indonesian culture?
A: The game features trendy neighbourhoods that Indonesian youth gravitate towards, and authentic depictions of Indonesian people, despite Japanese influences and an anime style.

Q: What software was used to develop Afterlove EP?
A: The game was developed using Unity, with additional tools such as Procreate, Photoshop, and Spine.

The Reason Big Tech Is Cozying Up to Trump

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Silicon Valley’s Quest for Favors

I never thought I’d find myself agreeing with the longtime Trump associate and election denier Steve Bannon. But last month, he argued that the Silicon Valley "broligarchs" are cozying up to the newly elected president because they "want essentially a bailout."

Why Silicon Valley Needs the Trump Administration

Of course, Mr. Bannon has his own agenda, as he is battling the tech bros for President Trump’s attention and favor. But Mr. Bannon has also spotted something real. Stuck between the soaring costs of complying with global regulations and the astronomical costs of the race for artificial intelligence dominance, our largest tech companies are likely turning to the Trump administration to try to lock in their advantages.

The Regulatory Threats

Silicon Valley faces numerous regulatory threats, as governments around the world gradually respond to the havoc Big Tech has caused. In the European Union, Google has been fined $8.6 billion in the past decade. Apple is liable for a $13.5 billion tax bill in Ireland after losing a court case. And Meta was recently fined about $830 million by the E.U.

The Pursuit of AI Dominance

Closer to home, antitrust actions against the biggest tech titans are winding their way through the courts, and U.S. states are stepping into the federal regulatory void with dozens of new protections for youth, for workers and for our data. This year, eight new state privacy laws will go into effect, and the California Privacy Protection Agency has already begun its enforcement actions, which allow it to impose fines of nearly $8,000 per intentional violation. That could reach into the millions or even billions of dollars.

Artificial Intelligence Concerns

Silicon Valley’s supposed lead in artificial intelligence — oft touted as the future of technology in which a trillion dollars could be invested — seemed to evaporate recently when a Chinese start-up claimed to have produced a product of equivalent quality for a fraction of the price. Microsoft and OpenAI’s subsequent discounting of prices did not inspire confidence. Mr. Altman even speculated about giving its models away free, jeopardizing the billions the industry hopes to get from customer sales.

Conclusion

Little wonder the tech titans are increasingly seeking help from the U.S. government. They need protection from the regulatory threats, and they need access to government contracts and data to maintain their dominance in AI.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why are tech companies seeking favors from the Trump administration?
A: Tech companies are seeking to avoid regulatory threats and maintain their dominance in artificial intelligence.

Q: What regulatory threats are Silicon Valley companies facing?
A: Companies are facing fines and antitrust actions in the European Union and U.S. states for violating data privacy and antitrust laws.

Q: Why do tech companies need government contracts?
A: Tech companies need government contracts to access data and resources to maintain their dominance in artificial intelligence.

Q: Is the tech industry as powerful as it seems?
A: Despite its power, the tech industry is facing significant challenges and is vulnerable to regulatory action.

Save £40 on PS5 Pro

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Get a PlayStation 5 Pro at the Lowest UK Price

A £40 Discount on the PlayStation 5 Pro

I think everyone agreed that the PlayStation 5 Pro console was too expensive with its steep $699 / £699 price tag when it first launched in November. Thankfully, there’s a £40 discount on the console right now over at Argos in the UK, which softens the blow just a little bit. With this deal, you can get the latest PlayStation 5 Pro for only £659.99 for a limited time.

A Notable Discount

This might not seem like a very big discount worth getting too excited about, but it’s more than generous for such a recently released next-gen console, which is also by far the most powerful one on the market.

Important Considerations

However, there are a few points to mention, and I’m by no means trying to talk you out of this deal – but keep in mind that the Pro version of the PlayStation 5 is digital only, and there is no disc version for gamers with physical collections. The only solution is to purchase a separate disc drive from Sony, which will set you back an extra £99.99.

Visual Requirements

Additionally, the super-powered specs of the PS5 Pro are only really noticeable if you have the right hardware to view it on, such as an 8K resolution monitor, or at the very least a screen with a 120Hz refresh rate. Take a look at our guide to the best monitors for graphic artists if you need pointing in the right direction.

Conclusion

The PlayStation 5 Pro is a superb next-gen console, and plenty of gamers are thrilled with not only the specs but the sheer horsepower of this unit. If you’ve been waiting for the right time to upgrade or take the plunge into PlayStation then today is the day – as we don’t know how long this deal will last for.

FAQs

Q: Is the PlayStation 5 Pro a digital-only console?
A: Yes, the Pro version of the PlayStation 5 is digital only, and there is no disc version for gamers with physical collections.

Q: Can I get a disc drive for my PS5 Pro?
A: Yes, you can purchase a separate disc drive from Sony, which will set you back an extra £99.99.

Q: Do I need specific hardware to view the PS5 Pro’s super-powered specs?
A: Yes, you’ll need an 8K resolution monitor, or a screen with a 120Hz refresh rate to fully appreciate the console’s capabilities.

GameDev Mastery

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The Best Free Animation Software Has Become Incredibly Useful

Not only can it help 2D and 3D artists understand animation workflows, but some free animation software can be used for professional and commercial projects. Not everyone has the money to be able to afford the likes of Autodesk Maya or Maxon Cinema 4D, two animation apps that feature in our best animation software guide, but that shouldn’t be a stumbling block for creating great animations.

Best Overall: Blender

Blender is a free and open-source 3D creation suite that covers not just animation but also modelling, rigging, simulation, rendering, compositing, and motion tracking. As well as being a fantastic 3D animation platform, Blender also has excellent 2D animation tools, such as the Grease Pencil for creating hand-drawn 2D animation inside a 3D environment.

Best for 2D: Krita

Krita is not only free but also open-source, which means it has a fantastic community presence. This software is perfect for 2D animation thanks to its dedicated painting tools. Krita is a free-to-use digital art software that features onion skinning animation tools, making it easy to create simple animations.

Best for Beginners: Pencil2D

Not only is Pencil2D particularly beginner-friendly, but it’s also one of the best tools for creating simple traditional 2D animations. The free and open-source package is ideal for anyone new to the art form. Pencil2D is a simple and user-friendly animation software that is great for creating cartoon-style animations.

How to Choose the Best Free Animation Software

When choosing the best free animation software, you need to ask yourself questions about what you want to create, consider your skill level, and how complicated you want to get with your animation. Different animation apps have specific and unique uses, and it’s important to research which one is right for you. Take a closer look at the tools and features in each software, and decide if you need frame-by-frame or tweening, layer support, or rigging and bone systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do YouTubers use to animate?

Many YouTubers use Adobe After Effects and Animate to create simple effects and motion graphics, but these days, 3D apps like Character Animator are being used to create ‘puppets’ and VFX.

Is Adobe Animate completely free?

No, while you can get a free trial version to use for seven days, you’ll need a Creative Cloud membership to use the full version.

Can I animate in Krita?

Yes, Krita is a free-to-use digital art software that features onion skinning animation tools, making it easy to create simple animations.

Does Blender have 2D animation tools?

Yes, Blender also has excellent 2D animation tools, such as the Grease Pencil for creating hand-drawn 2D animation inside a 3D environment.

Is OpenToonz easy to use?

OpenToonz is not user-friendly. It’s a powerful yet free animation software used by Studio Ghibli, which means it can take some time to grasp. But if you’re familiar with professional animation software, you’ll be able to get more from it.

Ransomware Payments Declined in 2024 Despite Massive Well-Known Hacks

Ransomware Payments Decline in 2024, But Experts Warn Against Complacency

While the decline in payments during the second half of 2024 is significant, the number of ransomware attacks and volume of payments has fluctuated and declined before. Notably, researchers saw a marked decrease in activity in 2022, a year in which Chainalysis placed total ransomware payments at $655 million compared to $1.07 billion in 2021 and nearly $1 billion in 2020.

A Historical Context

But while governments and defenders were initially heartened that their deterrence efforts were working, ransomware surged back as an even more dire threat in 2023, totaling, by Chainalysis’ count, $1.25 billion in payments that year.

Experts Weigh In

“I think ebbs and flows are inevitable,” says Brett Callow, a managing director at FTI Consulting and longtime ransomware researcher. “If the baddies had a couple of brilliant quarters, a dip will follow, same as if the goodies had some good quarters. That’s why we really need to analyze trends over a longer period, because increases and decreases over shorter periods don’t really tell us much.”

Challenges in Tracking Ransomware

Researchers have long warned that it is difficult to get truly reliable numbers about the volume of ransomware attacks and an accurate total of payments each year. This is partly the result of attackers attempting to inflate their records and make themselves seem more effective and menacing by claiming old data breaches as new attacks or simply making up attacks that they haven’t actually carried out. And it is always difficult to get accurate numbers about ransomware (not to mention digital scams more broadly), because stigma and regulatory requirements often keep victims from coming forward. This makes ransomware forecasting more of an art than a science.

Conclusion

While the decline in ransomware payments is a positive trend, experts warn against complacency. The data point is useful for making the case that sustained investment in ransomware defense is worthwhile, but it is not a guarantee of future reductions in ransomware attacks. As Burns Koven, a researcher at Chainalysis, emphasizes, “We’re still standing in the rubble, right? We can’t go tell everyone, everything’s great, we solved ransomware—they’re continuing to go after schools, after hospitals and critical infrastructure.” The decline in ransomware payments is a signal of what work needs to be continued.

FAQs

Q: Is the decline in ransomware payments a guarantee of future reductions in ransomware attacks?
A: No, experts warn against complacency and emphasize that the decline is not a guarantee of future reductions in ransomware attacks.

Q: Why is it difficult to get accurate numbers about ransomware?
A: It is difficult to get accurate numbers about ransomware because attackers attempt to inflate their records, and victims often keep silent due to stigma and regulatory requirements.

Q: What does the decline in ransomware payments mean for defenders?
A: The data point is useful for making the case that sustained investment in ransomware defense is worthwhile, but it is not a guarantee of future reductions in ransomware attacks.

GitHub Copilot brings mockups to life by generating code from images

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GitHub Announces Updates for Copilot, Glimpse into Agentic Future

New Features and Updates

Among the notable updates includes a feature called Vision for Copilot, which allows users to attach a screenshot, photo, or diagram to a chat, with Copilot generating the interface, code, and alt text to bring it to life.

For example, someone on a marketing team could take a screenshot of a web page and illustrate some changes they want made to that page. Rather than requesting such changes via text prompts, it’s now possible to upload an image and just ask Copilot to implement the changes as indicated in the file.

It’s worth noting that this has been available as an extension in VS Code since October, with Microsoft confirming in the app’s description that it would eventually be deprecated in favor of a native feature within GitHub Copilot Chat. Previously, it also required the user to have their own API key.

Vision for CopilotImage Credits:GitHub

Next Edit Suggestions

GitHub is also introducing a new feature dubbed “next edit suggestions” as part of Copilot’s broader code-complete functionality.

Before now, GitHub Copilot in VS Code’s editor worked from the cursor position, but now it will look at other recent edits to predict what you might want to do next. It’s basically using richer contextual cues to automatically identify and suggest what the next edit should be.

If the developer wants to accept the suggestions, they can hit the Tab key, or Esc to reject.

GitHub Copilot Next Edit SuggestionsGitHub Copilot Next Edit SuggestionsImage Credits:GitHub

GitHub’s Agentic Future

Copilot Edits

GitHub also debuted Copilot Edits last November, serving as a new way to carry out multi-file edits using natural language prompts. This feature is now graduating to general availability, while also packing a new “agent mode” that identifies all the files that are relevant to the changes that a developer is trying to make — rather than relying on them to manually select the files that the changes should apply to.

Project Padawan

Longer term, the goal is to have such “agent modes” apply to other aspects of Copilot, enabling greater automation across a broader range of interlinked tasks. This is why GitHub has also teased a new initiative it’s calling Project Padawan, which is basically a SWE (software engineering) agent that can independently handle entire tasks under the direction of a developer who assigns issues to Copilot.

GitHub CEO Thomas Dohmke didn’t give any indication when this might be ready for prime time, merely noting that it will be working with partners and the community to improve it.

Conclusion

GitHub’s updates for Copilot aim to make the AI-powered pair programmer more efficient and effective. With features like Vision for Copilot and next edit suggestions, developers can work more quickly and accurately. The agentic future of Copilot, with its focus on automation and independence, has the potential to revolutionize the way developers work.

FAQs

Q: What is Vision for Copilot?

A: Vision for Copilot is a feature that allows users to attach a screenshot, photo, or diagram to a chat, with Copilot generating the interface, code, and alt text to bring it to life.

Q: What is next edit suggestions?

A: Next edit suggestions is a feature that uses richer contextual cues to automatically identify and suggest what the next edit should be.

Q: What is Project Padawan?

A: Project Padawan is a new initiative that is basically a SWE (software engineering) agent that can independently handle entire tasks under the direction of a developer who assigns issues to Copilot.

Beyond the Hype: Weighing Risks and Rewards of Lifetime Deals

The Hidden Truth About Lifetime Deals: Are They Worth Your Investment?

by Manoj Pedvi ・ Feb 6

Lifetime deals are a popular marketing strategy used by software companies, particularly on AppSumo and other similar platforms. These deals typically offer discounted pricing for lifetime access to a software or product, often for a limited-time only. In this article, we’ll examine the hidden truths behind lifetime deals and whether or not they are worth your investment.

Why Lifetime Deals Work

Lifetime deals have become popular because they promise significant savings compared to traditional one-time or monthly pricing models. These deals create a sense of urgency, as buyers feel that they must purchase the product at a discounted price before the deal expires. Additionally, lifetime access can provide ongoing support and future updates, eliminating the need to worry about rising prices or switching to a competitor.

Concerns and Issues

While lifetime deals may sound attractive, they are not always what they seem. Here are some concerns to consider:

Limited Licenses: Lifetime deals often come with limited licenses or restrictions that can limit usage. Be sure to read the fine print to understand what’s included and what’s not.

Frequent Updates and Downtimes: Lifetime products may require significant updates, which can lead to downtime or potential errors. Test the product carefully before committing.

Cancel or Discontinue: Companies reserve the right to cancel or discontinue their services, leaving lifetime buyers with reduced or no benefits.

Security and Trust: Lifetime deals may involve exchanging personal data and financial information for the discounted product. Ensure you trust the company and understand its security measures.

Conclusion

Lifetime deals can be a convenient and cost-effective way to purchase software or products. However, it’s crucial to carefully assess the terms, restrictions, and potential risks associated with these offers. Before making a purchase, consider the benefits, limitations, and potential security concerns. Our article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the hidden truths surrounding lifetime deals to help you make informed decisions as a buyer.

FAQs

Q: Are lifetime deals always a good deal?
A: Not necessarily. While discounted pricing can be attractive, examine the terms, licenses, and potential risks associated with the offer.

Q: How do I ensure I understand the terms and limitations of a lifetime deal?
A: Always read the fine print, consult reviews, and contact the company’s support to clarify any uncertainties.

Q: What should I look for before purchasing a lifetime deal?
A: Check reviews, ratings, and testimonials, as well as the company’s reputation, refund policy, and security measures.

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time Reborn in UE5

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A Faithful Recreation of a Classic: Zelda: Ocarina of Time Remake in Unreal Engine 5

A New Era for Nintendo’s Adventure Series

Zelda: Ocarina of Time was a milestone for Nintendo’s adventure series, being the first Zelda game to feature 3D graphics. When it was released in 1998, it was a visual stunner. However, graphics have advanced significantly since then, and many fans would love to see a faithful recreation of the game with today’s technology.

A Fan’s Passion Project

One dedicated fan developer, CryZENx, has been working on a remake of Zelda: Ocarina of Time in Unreal Engine 5. The project respects the details of the original game while taking advantage of Unreal Engine’s powerful lighting tools. The result is a beautiful and nostalgic experience that will transport fans back to the world of Hyrule.

New Footage and Features

Recently, CryZENx released a new video showcasing 30 minutes of gameplay from the remake. The new footage features an updated version of Kakariko Village, with more detailed maps and the ability to enter certain houses. The beams of sunlight streaming in through the windows look stunning. Kafei, a beloved character from the original game, also makes a cameo appearance. Players can fight enemies, use their Ocarina, collect items, break objects, and interact with non-playable characters (NPCs). The remake also includes in-engine cut-scenes.

A Nostalgic Experience

The remake’s design choices, such as scaling up the size of interiors and exteriors and bringing the camera down to eye level, create a sense of nostalgia. The game’s art style has been meticulously recreated, with characters’ movements and animations accurately replicated. Even the way the villagers run, with their legs moving faster than they move, is a nod to the original game.

Community Response

The response from the gaming community has been overwhelmingly positive, with fans praising the attention to detail and the faithfulness to the original game. One commenter wrote, "This looks incredible! Amazing job! The funny thing is that for 8-year-old-me it looked just like that back in 1998." Another fan commented, "You are really putting your heart and soul into this project. I have been following this for years. It’s looking fantastic, as always! I can’t wait to see Zora’s Domain (probably) next!"

Conclusion

CryZENx’s Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake is a testament to the power of Unreal Engine 5 and the dedication of indie developers. The game is a nostalgic trip back to the world of Hyrule, with stunning graphics and attention to detail. Fans of the original game will love the recreation, and new players will be able to experience the classic adventure in a whole new way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the game a direct copy of the original?
A: No, the game is a remake, and while it respects the original, it is not a direct copy.

Q: Is the game available for download?
A: The game is not available for download yet, but you can follow the developer’s progress on their Patreon account.

Q: Can I play the game on my console?
A: The game is currently being developed for PC, but there is no confirmation on a console release.

Q: How long until the game is complete?
A: The developer has not announced a release date, but updates are being shared regularly on their social media channels.

Data Security and Access Obstacles Grow, But There Is Hope

Privacy and Compliance Concerns Hamper Data Access

Privacy and compliance concerns are hurting organizations’ ability to provide timely access to data for their internal users, putting initiatives at risk. According to Immuta’s 2025 State of Data Security report, nearly two-thirds (64%) of data leaders face "significant challenges" getting timely and secure data into the hands of users.

Top Barriers to Data Access

The top barrier facing data leaders in 2025, according to Immuta’s seventh annual data security report, are compliance and privacy, which were cited by 50% of the survey respondents. The presence of data silos and data fragmentation was cited as a top barrier by 45% of respondents, while 39% reported a need to address complex and unscalable data access policies and processes.

Data Access Times

While data access times have actually gone down since the 2024 report, with 37% of respondents saying it takes them at least one week to get access to data after they have requested it, this is still a significant challenge. The report highlights that a third of data leaders say that data users can’t easily find, request, and access data without IT support.

Centralized vs. Federated Approach

When it comes to centralized vs. federated approach to data governance controls, there was a fairly even split, with 44% respondents reporting a centralized approach, 36% a federated approach, and 20% listing "other." Companies that have adopted the data mesh model may be freeing their users to control their own data, but at the price of decentralized control, Immuta warns.

Automation in Data Governance

Automation in data governance can help address some of these concerns. Data marketplaces such as the one that Immuta launched last fall, combine the data catalog experience for exploring data along with the security controls necessary to prevent bad things from happening when users get access to it, and have the potential to meet the seemingly contradictory goals of providing data access and data security at the same time.

Consequences of a Broken Data Access-Security Chain

When the data access-security chain breaks down, there can be downstream consequences to the business. That could come in the form of missed internal goals, lost revenue, and lost collaboration opportunities. Immuta attributes this feeling to "a wide swath of both internal and external regulations" at play in companies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, data access and security are critical components of any organization’s data strategy. While there are challenges to providing timely and secure data access, automation in data governance can help address some of these concerns. By implementing the right data marketplaces and security controls, organizations can provide their users with the data they need while also protecting their sensitive information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the top barriers to data access in 2025?
A: Compliance and privacy, data silos and data fragmentation, complex and unscalable data access policies and processes.

Q: How long does it take for data leaders to get access to data after requesting it?
A: According to Immuta’s report, it takes at least one week for 37% of respondents.

Q: What is the difference between centralized and federated approach to data governance controls?
A: Centralized approach is when data governance is controlled by a single entity, while federated approach is when data governance is controlled by multiple entities.

Q: Can automation in data governance help address data access and security concerns?
A: Yes, automation in data governance can help address data access and security concerns by providing the right data marketplaces and security controls.