The hottest Substack posts right now

according to Hacker News
Category

Sophisticated StripedFly Spy Platform Masqueraded for Years as Crypto Miner

Zero Day • 916 implied HN points • 26 Oct 23
🕹 Technology Malware Ransomware Nation-states
  1. The StripedFly malware was initially thought to be a crypto miner but turned out to be a sophisticated spy platform that infected over a million victims worldwide since 2017.
  2. One unique aspect of StripedFly is the custom-coded TOR client used for communication and data transfer, which shows the attackers' high level of skill and security consciousness.
  3. StripedFly includes a ransomware component named ThunderCrypt, raising questions about the intent behind including ransomware in an espionage tool and how it fits into the overall operation.

Jet Propulsion: Evolution of Technology & the Future of Interplanetary Travel. Part 1.

Space Ambition • 319 implied HN points • 14 Apr 23
🕹 Technology Space Exploration Engineering Aerospace Innovation
  1. Jet propulsion is a key technology for space travel. It works by pushing gas out one way to move in the opposite direction, based on Newton's third law.
  2. There are two main types of engines: high-thrust engines for fast launches and low-thrust engines for long, efficient journeys in space. Each type has its own use depending on the mission.
  3. The market for propulsion systems is growing rapidly, with innovations like 3D printing helping to make production cheaper and more efficient. This growth is driven by increasing satellite launches and the need for better space technology.

Bill vs. Ted

The Radar • 59 implied HN points • 03 Apr 24
💼 Business Leadership Promotions Processes Organizational Culture Decision-making
  1. In promotion processes, advocacy, arbitrariness, and detachment can influence outcomes, sometimes leading to the wrong candidate being chosen.
  2. The complexity and overbuilt nature of promotion processes can obscure the best candidate, favoring manipulation over merit.
  3. Balancing objectivity and fairness in promotions is crucial, as promoting the right people leads to positive organizational outcomes.

Using ChatGPT-4 for a new price discriminating hurdle for my workshops

Scott's Substack • 98 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
💼 Business Entrepreneurship Economics Innovation Ethics Marketing
  1. Price discrimination involves selling the same service at different prices to different consumers based on specific criteria that can't be easily manipulated.
  2. Creating pricing hurdles, like costly actions or essays, can help target different groups of consumers effectively.
  3. Using ChatGPT-4 to assess essays for pricing eligibility can introduce a fair yet complex system, combining an honor system approach with a touch of randomness.
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Hybrid Evaluation: Scaling human feedback with custom evaluation models

LLMs for Engineers • 159 implied HN points • 15 Nov 23
🕹 Technology Automation Machine Learning Human feedback AI
  1. Human feedback is still very important for evaluating models, especially in areas like customer support, but it can slow things down and increase costs.
  2. Combining human input with automated, model-based evaluation can help improve efficiency and accuracy, reducing errors significantly.
  3. Using fewer human-labeled examples with smart bootstrapping techniques can still yield good results, making it cheaper and faster to train evaluation models.

Tim Pool, Sam Seder, and Thanos: Is Lesser-Evil Voting Like Pushing People Onto Trolley Tracks? (UNLOCKED)

Philosophy for the People w/Ben Burgis • 239 implied HN points • 26 Mar 23
📖 Philosophy Consequentialism Ethics Justice Free will
  1. Tim Pool's comparison of lesser-evil voting to the Trolley Problem and Thanos lacked depth and accuracy in understanding consequentialism and deontology.
  2. It's important to consider moral complexities beyond simple consequentialism when debating electoral strategies like third-party voting versus lesser-evil voting.
  3. The debate between deontology and consequentialism in voting ethics can lead to deeper discussions on philosophical principles and their application in political decision-making.

It Was a Long Time Ago, and It Never Really Happened Anyway

Variations on a Theme • 99 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
📖 Philosophy Existentialism Enlightenment Totalitarianism Nostalgia Humanity
  1. The article discusses nostalgia for past times and how events that seemed unbelievable then are now real memories.
  2. The author reflects on societal conformity during challenging times, drawing parallels to historical events.
  3. The piece highlights the dangers of delusion, rationalization, and the impact on individual freedoms within a society.

How often do AI's lie and censor?

Who is Robert Malone • 18 implied HN points • 15 Dec 25
🕹 Technology Trust Health Censorship Ethics AI Misinformation Safety
  1. Some AI systems will refuse or block answers to certain prompts, and the same question can get very different responses from different models.
  2. Language models can be made to generate convincing but false health information, and the strength of safeguards varies a lot between systems.
  3. Many AIs deny lying or censoring and there’s no external verification process, so users should not trust them blindly and must verify important information themselves.

The Measurement Problem in Software Engineering

Maestro's Musings • 17 implied HN points • 15 Dec 25
🕹 Technology AI Software Engineering Engineering Management Code Quality Metrics DevOps Developer Productivity
  1. Counting artifacts like lines of code, story points, or PR counts has repeatedly failed; these proxies miss real value, are easy to game, and can harm organizations.
  2. AI both breaks traditional metrics—making code volume meaningless and often increasing churn and bugs—and widens perception gaps where developers feel faster than measured results show.
  3. A promising path is semantic, context-aware measurement that uses AI to understand what changes actually do and synthesize those findings into simple narratives for leaders, aiming for "good enough" insight that’s harder to game.

The software engineering "squeeze"

Leading Developers • 109 implied HN points • 24 Jun 25
🕹 Technology Professional Skills Job Market Career development Software Engineering AI Impact
  1. Software engineering was once an easy path to a high-paying job, but many engineers are now feeling the pressure due to high competition and the rise of AI.
  2. There are a lot of average engineers in the field, which is causing a squeeze; companies are looking for those who truly stand out and have a mix of skills beyond just coding.
  3. It's important for engineers to continuously improve their skills and take initiative instead of waiting for job offers, as the demand for great engineers remains strong.

Welcome to the Origins Season 10 Postseason!

The Lunacian • 368 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
🕹 Technology Esports Virtual Economy Digital Assets Blockchain Gaming
  1. The Season 10 Elite 8 Tournament is happening on October 20th, where eight top players will compete for the championship and 3,000 AXS prize.
  2. Collectible Axie ticket rewards are coming soon, and they will help determine your share of the 7,000 AXS prize pool based on how many tickets you earned.
  3. New features are on the way, including Rune Upgrading and two new starter axies, Shu Fen and Temujin, which will bring exciting changes in the next season.

Why it's Better To Raise Less Capital In The First Funding Round? | Finding Early Adopters For Your MVP! | VC Remote Jobs & More

Venture Curator • 139 implied HN points • 08 Dec 23
💼 Business Startup funding Career development Investing Venture Capital Entrepreneurship
  1. Start Small, Stay Nimble: Raising less capital early on gives flexibility for strategic adjustments while retaining control.
  2. Small Beginnings, Bigger Rewards: Raising less initially leads to diluting fewer shares later as the startup's valuation naturally increases.
  3. Grow Smart, Grow Strong: It's not about the amount of capital raised but how strategically it is used for smarter growth.

Shadows Cast by Tomorrow - Part I

10-year Horizon • 139 implied HN points • 31 Dec 23
📖 Philosophy Human experience
  1. Life is guided by predictive forces, with prediction playing a key role in human experiences.
  2. Tension is a crucial aspect of our predictive machinery, serving as a form of restriction and steering mechanism.
  3. Our psychosomatic bridge combines the vascular, neural, and conscious systems to optimize prediction in emotional states.

Digital Shamanism

the shimmering void • 93 implied HN points • 18 Jul 25
🕹 Technology AI HCI Culture Philosophy
  1. Using imagination is crucial for understanding different perspectives. It helps us think about how others see the world and creates new ideas.
  2. Digital tools like AI can enhance group discussions and creativity. They allow people to connect in meaningful ways during collective activities.
  3. To use AI thoughtfully, we need skilled facilitators who can guide interactions and prevent negative outcomes. This approach can keep discussions focused and purposeful.

Five Links for August 2025

Five Links (and three graphs) by Auren Hoffman • 81 implied HN points • 03 Aug 25
🕹 Technology Startups Innovation Data Consulting Venture Capital Artificial Intelligence
  1. Data businesses can be profitable but may not be suitable for venture capital. It's important to know which funding methods fit your business model.
  2. The consulting industry is facing challenges due to changes in technology and market needs, making it a ripe target for disruption.
  3. Sunlight might have health benefits for autoimmune diseases. Research shows that UV light can help improve conditions like multiple sclerosis.

Philosophy is the mathematics of language

Wood From Eden • 816 implied HN points • 23 Dec 23
📖 Philosophy Logic Epistemology Language Concepts Mathematics
  1. Philosophy is the art of clarifying concepts and finding links between them.
  2. Philosophy is similar to mathematics in that it explores relationships between concepts, just as mathematics explores relationships between numbers.
  3. Concepts in philosophy change over time, making it a field that evolves constantly unlike mathematics which is built on stable concepts.

Intents: the end-game for computing interfaces?

Router by Dmitry Pimenov • 2 HN points • 11 Sep 24
🕹 Technology Computing Automation Interfaces Programming AI
  1. Computing interfaces are evolving from specific command-based systems to more user-friendly methods that focus on overall goals. This makes it easier for developers to work on what really matters instead of getting bogged down in details.
  2. Intent-driven interfaces allow us to express our thoughts directly to machines, removing the need for complicated steps. This means we can communicate what we want in a more natural way.
  3. The rise of AI and new technologies is shifting how we interact with computers. Soon, we may even communicate our intentions directly from our minds, making technology feel more personal and easier to use.

GroupBy #29: Scaling AI/ML Infrastructure at Uber, The Sisyphean struggle and the new era of data infrastructure

VuTrinh. • 59 implied HN points • 02 Apr 24
🕹 Technology Cloud Computing Infrastructure Machine Learning Data Engineering Software Development
  1. Uber is focusing on building strong AI and machine learning infrastructure to keep up with the growing complexity of their models. This involves using both CPUs and GPUs for better efficiency.
  2. Data management is becoming crucial for companies like Netflix as they deal with massive amounts of production data. They are developing tools to effectively manage and optimize this data.
  3. The data streaming landscape is evolving, with new technologies emerging that make handling data easier and more efficient. This is changing how companies approach data infrastructure.

What Is DeFi Education?

DeFi Education • 719 implied HN points • 18 Aug 22
🔮 Crypto Education Finance Blockchain DeFi Investing
  1. DeFi Education offers independent and high-quality research on crypto. They focus on helping people understand complex topics in the crypto world without the influence of paid promotions.
  2. The mission is to empower individuals with the knowledge to make informed decisions in the crypto space, avoiding scams and bad investments.
  3. They have built a strong community of readers, ranging from beginners to experts, who share valuable insights and support each other in navigating the fast-changing crypto landscape.

Movers, Shakers, & Money Makers (6/3)

Human Capitalist • 39 implied HN points • 03 Jun 24
💼 Business Job Changes Leadership Workforce Trends
  1. There are many recent job changes in the tech industry, with key players moving from one company to another. This can impact the companies' strategies and market competition.
  2. Some of the notable moves include leaders from Microsoft, GitHub, and Tesla who are now joining other major firms. These changes usually signal new directions or innovations for those companies.
  3. Keeping track of job changes can be helpful for investors, recruiters, and anyone interested in following talent trends in the industry. It shows who is leading and influencing major companies.

TBM 226: Stuck In The Valley of "Doing OK"

The Beautiful Mess • 1190 implied HN points • 15 Jun 23
💼 Business Leadership Organizational dynamics Change Management Innovation Company performance
  1. Being stuck in a state of 'doing ok' is dangerous for a company.
  2. Companies can be in a 'doing ok' basin where they neither thrive nor fail, leading to eventual decline.
  3. To disrupt the 'doing ok' situation in a company, try seeding new behaviors, increasing connectivity, and introducing disturbances.

My failed experiment in e-commerce

Jay's Data Stream • 23 implied HN points • 25 Nov 25
💼 Business Product Branding Supply Chain Consumer Goods Startups E-commerce Marketing
  1. Starting a startup as a joke or out of stress rarely works; impulsive or unrelated side projects get poor execution and weak customer demand.
  2. CPG e-commerce is mostly marketing — you need relentless content, influencer work, and paid ads to drive sales, because a good product alone usually won’t sell itself.
  3. Physical product failures leave you with real inventory and logistics headaches; unlike digital businesses, you can’t just shut them down with one click.

"Buy, Don't Repair" Is Subtle Message of Google Ad Campaign

Fight to Repair • 138 implied HN points • 08 Dec 23
🕹 Technology Repair Consumer Culture Right-to-repair Data Privacy
  1. The Google ad campaign conveys the message of 'Buy, Don't Repair' by promoting replacing products over repairing them, highlighting the impact of consumer culture and convenience.
  2. There is a significant focus on increasing the longevity of products through right to repair initiatives, emphasizing the importance of repairing, reusing, and reducing waste before resorting to recycling.
  3. Various issues related to repair and longevity, such as companies limiting repair resources, the spread of 'Deere disease' affecting maintenance, and the impact of support policies on vintage products, are highlighted in the text.

Facebook (Meta) Lesson 3: Tell me a story!

Musings on Markets • 539 implied HN points • 18 Nov 22
💼 Business Financial Reporting Corporate Governance Investing Valuation Market Analysis
  1. A good business valuation combines numbers with a compelling story. The story helps make sense of the numbers and gives them context.
  2. Storytelling is important for investors because it makes a business memorable and helps communicate its potential. However, numbers are crucial to maintain credibility and accountability.
  3. As market conditions change, so must a business's story. Companies like Facebook need to adapt their narratives to remain relevant and regain investor trust.

OpenAI Dev Day

Bojan’s Newsletter • 157 implied HN points • 15 Nov 23
🕹 Technology AI Future Tech Development Models API
  1. Key announcements at OpenAI Dev Day included GPT4 Turbo, GPT Store launch, ChatGPT API introduction, new Text-to-speech API, DALL-E 3 API, Whisper 3 unveil, and Copyright Shield.
  2. Developers can create and customize GPTs for specific use cases easily.
  3. OpenAI emphasized gradual AI model advancements and the transformative impact AI will have on various industries in the near future.

Abe Left Japan’s Economy Worse Than He Found It

Japan Economy Watch • 519 implied HN points • 13 Sep 22
💼 Business Government Labor Economy Politics Finance
  1. Shinzo Abe failed to improve Japan's economy during his tenure as Prime Minister, falling short of his promises and leaving living standards on a decline
  2. Abe's economic policies led to suppressed GDP growth, low wages, and a shift in national income from people to corporations
  3. Despite claimed achievements like 'womenomics' and ending deflation, Abe's tenure was marked by hollow measures and missed opportunities for real structural economic reforms

How to Treat Conspiracy Theories

Going Awol • 79 implied HN points • 28 Feb 24
📖 Philosophy Conspiracy Theories
  1. Conspiracy theories should not be dismissed outright; some may hold merit.
  2. Initial suspicion towards conspiracy theories is reasonable, but diving deep into evidence is crucial.
  3. Fantastical claims and gamification within conspiracy theories are reasons to approach them cautiously.

How to metacognate

Sunday Letters • 99 implied HN points • 29 Jan 24
🕹 Technology Automation AI Programming Machine Learning Cognition Data
  1. Working with complex models can be hard when they get confused by incorrect or incomplete information. This can lead to mistakes and conflicts in what they remember.
  2. Creating a stable pattern for how tasks are done can help models work better by giving them a solid structure to follow. This is like giving the model a framework to lean on for more complicated tasks.
  3. As models improve, the need for extra coding to guide their thinking may lessen. Better memory strategies will likely help them function more effectively over time.

Am I an anarchist?

The Novelleist • 304 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
📖 Philosophy Utopianism Governance Social theory Anarchism Political theory
  1. Small communities can self-govern effectively, but larger groups may need some form of governance to ensure good behavior among members. This raises questions about whether a decentralized system still counts as anarchist.
  2. People want similar goals across different ideologies, like a more equitable and environmentally conscious society. The focus should be on improving our current systems rather than starting from scratch.
  3. Open borders could change the dynamics of power between countries. If people can easily leave bad governments, those governments might be less likely to wage war or act poorly to keep their citizens.

YC, Alchemist, Gitex want robot startups!

Robots & Startups • 59 implied HN points • 01 Apr 24
💼 Business Venture Capital Accelerators Startups Robotics Events
  1. Y Combinator, Alchemist, and Gitex are seeking robot startups for various programs and events.
  2. Startup accelerator programs like Alchemist Accelerator have specific criteria for founders and offer opportunities for nominations and fast-tracked interviews.
  3. There are numerous deadlines for startup calls in diverse fields like mobility, med devices, and deep tech, along with events like the Gitex Global in Dubai.

The CrowdTangle Shutdown: Yet Another Wake-Up Call for Social Media Transparency

3188 Labs • 6 HN points • 17 Aug 24
🕹 Technology AI Impact Information Flow Digital ethics Data Privacy Social media
  1. CrowdTangle was a tool that helped researchers and journalists track how information spread on social media. Its shutdown by Meta shows a lack of support for transparency.
  2. Social media algorithms often promote divisive content for profit, making it hard for regulators to step in. Without tools to understand these algorithms, it’s tough to address misinformation properly.
  3. There’s a growing need for better tools and processes to help people navigate social media. As we consume more online, it's crucial to be aware of the influences shaping our thoughts.

I made a simple tool to save you from online distractions

12challenges • 257 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Productivity Internet Usage Digital Tools Software Activism
  1. A tool named Nudge helps you block online distractions like news feeds and comments. It's like an ad blocker but for things that distract you from what you want to focus on.
  2. Nudge is free, open source, and has a good user rating. It makes it easier for you to avoid scrolling through unnecessary content while browsing online.
  3. The creator wants feedback and suggestions to make Nudge even better. You're invited to try it out and share your thoughts with him.

✨ The future of AI and the US economy, according to Goldman Sachs

Faster, Please! • 365 implied HN points • 14 Oct 24
💼 Business Productivity Market Trends Technology Finance Economics
  1. Goldman Sachs sees AI improving productivity, but not as a big game changer right away. They think its impact will be more like the rise of personal computers and the internet.
  2. While AI might boost GDP growth in the coming years, it will mostly help with efficiency by automating easier tasks. The real economic benefit might take some time to show up.
  3. There’s a lot of uncertainty about how AI will play out, with both potential upsides and realistic challenges. Many companies are testing AI, but significant impacts may still be a few years away.

DeepSeek: Frequently Asked Questions

Artificial Ignorance • 243 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Research Data Innovation Software AI
  1. DeepSeek is a new AI company that has made a big impact by focusing on research instead of just selling products. It started quietly but became popular with its recent models that work well and are cheaper than competitors.
  2. Their latest products, DeepSeek V3 and R1, perform similarly to big names like ChatGPT but at much lower prices, making AI more accessible. People can even use their chatbot for free on their website.
  3. DeepSeek's success has raised questions about the future of AI development, suggesting that state-of-the-art systems can be built without spending billions. This shift in the industry has attracted significant attention and worry from major tech companies.