An advanced artificial intelligence model developed by Anthropic identified vulnerabilities in highly sensitive US government computer systems within hours during a recent cybersecurity testing exercise, highlighting both the capabilities and risks associated with rapidly evolving AI technology.

The testing was conducted through Anthropic’s Project Glasswing initiative, a programme designed to evaluate how powerful AI systems can be used to strengthen cyber defenses while assessing potential threats to national security and critical infrastructure. According to a US official familiar with the exercise, the company worked closely with intelligence agencies to test its restricted-access model known as Mythos.

The official, speaking anonymously, said the AI was able to detect weaknesses across classified government networks in a matter of hours. While the system successfully identified vulnerabilities, officials stressed that finding security flaws does not necessarily mean the model could immediately exploit them.

The exercise attracted public attention after Democratic Senator Mark Warner of Virginia referenced the findings during a Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs hearing on June 11. Warner said information provided by the head of the National Security Agency and US Cyber Command indicated that the AI tool had penetrated nearly all classified systems tested, accomplishing in hours what traditionally could take weeks.

The results have intensified debate in Washington over how advanced AI systems should be managed and regulated. Anthropic has maintained a cooperative relationship with US government agencies on security research, but tensions have emerged between the company and the Trump administration over the deployment of its most powerful models.

Earlier this month, the administration issued a directive requiring Anthropic to restrict access to its latest AI systems, known as Fable 5 and Mythos 5, for foreign users. The order followed President Donald Trump’s executive action establishing a framework for reviewing national security risks associated with cutting-edge AI technologies before they are publicly released.

Anthropic responded by limiting access to certain models, though the company questioned whether the government’s restrictions were necessary. The firm has argued that concerns about cybersecurity risks should be balanced against the benefits AI can provide in strengthening digital defenses.

The directive has also drawn criticism from the technology sector. More than 100 cybersecurity specialists and executives from major technology companies, including Adobe and Nvidia, have signed a letter urging the government to reconsider the restrictions.

The group acknowledged that Anthropic’s models are highly effective at identifying software vulnerabilities and simulating cyberattacks. However, they argued that similar capabilities exist in other advanced AI systems and warned that limiting access to leading defensive technologies could weaken US cybersecurity efforts at a time when rival nations are investing heavily in artificial intelligence.

The debate reflects growing concerns over how governments and technology companies can balance innovation, security and competition as increasingly powerful AI systems reshape the cybersecurity landscape.

As Europe experiences another wave of extreme temperatures, consumers are increasingly turning to technology designed to provide relief from the heat. From advanced misting fans to wearable cooling devices, manufacturers are introducing products aimed at making hot weather more manageable both indoors and outdoors.

Among the products attracting attention are misting fans developed by Chinese company Dreo. Showcased earlier this year at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), the company’s TurboCool range combines airflow with a fine ultrasonic mist that evaporates almost instantly. The technology allows users to enjoy a cooling effect without leaving moisture on furniture or surfaces.

Dreo offers several models, including compact desktop versions and larger tower fans designed for home use. The company says its larger units can significantly reduce room temperatures, making them a popular option for households seeking alternatives to traditional air conditioning systems. Industry observers note that misting fans have gained popularity because they actively help lower temperatures rather than simply circulating warm air.

Portable cooling devices are also seeing strong interest as people look for ways to stay comfortable while travelling or spending time outdoors. One of the most talked-about products in this category is Dyson’s Husjet Mini Cool handheld fan.

The device uses a precision nozzle and honeycomb mesh system instead of conventional spinning blades. According to Dyson, the fan can generate airflow speeds of up to 25 metres per second and operate for as long as six hours on a single charge. The compact fan can be used by hand, placed on a desk, or worn around the neck using a lanyard, making it suitable for a variety of situations.

Neck fans have also emerged as a growing market segment. These devices target the neck area, where major blood vessels are located close to the skin, helping users cool down more efficiently. One example is the JisuLife Neck Fan Life3 FA14, which offers multiple speed settings and a battery life of up to 16 hours. Such products have become particularly appealing to cyclists, commuters and outdoor workers during periods of high heat.

Wearable cooling technology is another area seeing rapid development. Earlier this year, Sony introduced the Reon Pocket Pro, a device often described as a wearable air conditioner. Worn beneath clothing at the base of the neck, the unit cools the body directly rather than blowing air.

Sony says the device uses sensors and software algorithms to monitor factors such as temperature, humidity and user activity, adjusting cooling performance accordingly. The Reon Pocket Pro can reportedly operate for up to 15 hours on a single charge and also offers a heating function during colder months.

As heatwaves become more frequent across Europe, demand for innovative cooling technologies is expected to grow, providing consumers with a wider range of options to cope with rising temperatures.