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Citizen Lab researchers say they found evidence of a spyware campaign that used online advertising infrastructure to target devices without requiring user interaction. The investigation links ads associated with Discover-Tech to infrastructure attributed to Candiru and documents attacks against 45 Al Jazeera devices. Researchers say related ad records reached tens of thousands of apps and websites, though not every impression was weaponized. Google, IAB Europe and Beeswax took action against Discover-Tech, while the companies linked to the campaign did not respond.

US consumer-price inflation rose to 3.7% in the year to September, above forecasts and up from 3.4% in August. Petrol prices increased 34.2% over the year and accounted for more than half of September’s monthly inflation increase, while core inflation was 2.6%. The figures arrive before midterm elections dominated by cost-of-living concerns. The Federal Reserve will watch whether energy costs spread into other prices; the report also notes tariffs have raised consumer-goods prices.

Eight US states have filed coordinated lawsuits accusing OpenAI of exposing children to self-harm encouragement and dangerous advice involving ChatGPT. The states seek changes to products for young users, monetary damages and restrictions on developing self-improving models until safety conditions are met. OpenAI says it has age-specific safeguards and will continue adding protections. The allegations join a broader wave of cases over chatbots and mental-health or violence-related harms.

Schools, libraries, industry groups, and education associations are opposing an FCC proposal that could restrict or eliminate E-Rate, a program that typically distributes more than $2 billion annually for connectivity. Supporters say institutions still need funding for broadband, equipment, maintenance, and upgrades, while FCC Chairman Brendan Carr argues that widespread connectivity may mean the program has exceeded its original purpose. The dispute also raises questions about FCC authority, with potential litigation likely after the rulemaking concludes.