US IT unemployment rose to 3.8% in April amid AI-driven uncertainty, while Iran’s 70-day internet blackout causes severe economic strain and business closures. In major tech news, IREN is acquiring Mirantis for $625M to expand AI infrastructure, and Google’s updated reCAPTCHA now requires Play Services, impacting de-Googled Android users. Additionally, Lithosquare raised $25M for AI mineral discovery.

Ransomware attacks surged to record highs in 2025 despite payments declining, driven by smaller groups exploiting vulnerabilities. In the UK, 50 GW of datacenter demand awaits grid connection, straining infrastructure amid AI growth initiatives. Microsoft's HoloLens, initially rejected for battlefield use, is now aiding remote cargo inspections. Elsewhere, Sopra Steria is suing the UK government over a £958M outsourcing contract awarded to Capita, alleging improper procurement practices. Finally, a UK police officer was dismissed for faking keystrokes with photo frames to falsely portray productivity.