Laatste nieuws in data
Dutch AI Startup Aizy Reaches €22 Million Valuation Just One Year After Launch
Breda, Thursday, 19 February 2026.
Breda-based marketing platform Aizy achieved a remarkable €22 million valuation within twelve months of operation, securing an additional €2 million in funding this February. The company reached €2 million in annual recurring revenue and attracted over 150 clients in its debut year, placing it among an elite group of rapidly scaling startups.
Dutch Healthcare Data Breach Triggers 118 Criminal Complaints as Investigation Continues
Netherlands, Thursday, 19 February 2026.
Over 100 individuals have filed criminal charges following a massive ransomware attack on Clinical Diagnostics that compromised personal data of 850,000 people participating in the Netherlands’ cervical cancer screening program. The August 2025 cyberattack saw hackers from the Nova group demand cryptocurrency payments before ultimately leaking sensitive medical information despite alleged ransom payments. Dutch prosecutors emphasize that investigating digital crimes requires international cooperation, making suspect identification a lengthy process that could span years across multiple jurisdictions.
Dutch Drone Company Avy Pivots to Military Applications Amid Rising Global Security Threats
Amsterdam, Thursday, 19 February 2026.
Netherlands-based Avy has transformed its commercial drone technology for dual-use military applications, positioning the company at the forefront of Europe’s defense innovation push. Led by former army officer Niels Blij, Avy’s weather-resistant long-range drones and strategic docking stations are now being evaluated by Dutch armed forces for reconnaissance, infrastructure monitoring, and medical supply missions. This strategic pivot reflects the urgent need for domestic defense capabilities as geopolitical tensions escalate globally. Avy exemplifies how civilian tech companies can rapidly adapt to serve national security needs while maintaining commercial operations, offering a blueprint for other Dutch firms to follow.
Liberty Global Pays €1 Billion for Full Control of Dutch Telecom Giant Ahead of Amsterdam Listing
Amsterdam, Wednesday, 18 February 2026.
Liberty Global’s acquisition of Vodafone’s 50% stake in VodafoneZiggo for €1 billion cash represents one of the Netherlands’ largest telecom deals in recent years. The transaction creates a regional powerhouse by combining Dutch and Belgian operations under the new Ziggo Group, with Vodafone retaining just 10% ownership. Most significantly, Liberty Global plans to spin off 90% of the enlarged company to shareholders through an Amsterdam Stock Exchange listing in 2027, potentially creating substantial value for investors while reshaping the competitive landscape for Dutch consumers.
Dutch Police Arrest Man Who Demanded Payment to Delete Files They Accidentally Sent Him
Amsterdam, Wednesday, 18 February 2026.
A 40-year-old man was arrested after refusing to delete confidential police documents accidentally sent to him, demanding compensation in return. The bizarre case began when police mistakenly sent a download link instead of an upload link, giving the man access to sensitive investigation files. Despite clear instructions to stop downloading and delete the material, he continued accessing the documents and told authorities he would only comply if he ‘received something in return,’ leading to his arrest for computer trespassing.
EU Opens Major Investigation Into Shein Over Child Sex Dolls and Addictive Shopping Features
Brussels, Tuesday, 17 February 2026.
The European Commission launched formal proceedings against Chinese retailer Shein on February 17, 2026, under the Digital Services Act for three serious violations: selling illegal products including child-like sex dolls, using addictive design features that reward user engagement, and maintaining opaque recommendation systems. This marks a significant enforcement action that could result in fines up to $2.2 billion—six percent of Shein’s $37 billion annual revenue. The investigation follows French regulators’ discovery of prohibited items on the platform in 2025, highlighting growing EU scrutiny of e-commerce giants and their algorithmic systems that may exploit user behavior patterns.
Fire Researcher Reveals Every Extra Minute Increases Major Damage Risk by 1.2 Percent
Delft, Tuesday, 17 February 2026.
Vincent Oskam’s groundbreaking research at TU Delft shows response time isn’t everything in fire safety. His insurance data analysis reveals damage probability rises exponentially after 11 minutes, but building type and socioeconomic factors matter more than previously understood. Electric vehicle charging and outdated 1960s guidelines create new urban fire risks that traditional approaches can’t address effectively.