Tag Archives: troubleshooting

I Automated Malicious IP Blocking with the Help of AI

Introduction: Navigating the complexities of cybersecurity requires a blend of alertness and innovation. In my latest project, I embraced this ethos by deploying AI, particularly ChatGPT-4, to craft a Python script that automates the blocking of malicious IP addresses. (Moreover, the ‘tags‘ you see in this post are the product of a WordPress plugin, also primarily developed with insights from ChatGPT-4 too!)

The Challenge: With brute force attacks becoming increasingly common, developing a swift and automated response mechanism was crucial. My aim was to create a system capable of promptly identifying and neutralizing threats from malicious IP addresses.

AI as a Collaborative Partner: ChatGPT-4’s advanced language understanding capabilities played a pivotal role in this project, assisting both in scripting and in WordPress plugin development.

  1. Script Development: ChatGPT-4 provided step-by-step guidance in crafting a Python script to parse alert emails and extract IP addresses. Its ability to generate code snippets and troubleshoot issues was invaluable.
  2. Integrating Security Tools: The script was integrated seamlessly with cPHulk and CSF, using Python’s subprocess module. This integration, suggested by ChatGPT-4, was critical for the effective blocking of suspicious IPs.
  3. Handling Sensitive Data Securely: In dealing with login credentials, ChatGPT-4 recommended secure practices, such as using environment variables, which were crucial for maintaining the script’s integrity.
  4. Error Handling and Efficient Logging: Robust error handling and comprehensive logging, as advised by ChatGPT-4, ensured the system’s reliability and maintainability.
  5. Automating with Cron Jobs: The script’s automation was achieved through a cron job setup, a process in which ChatGPT-4 played an advisory role.
  6. WordPress Plugin for Tag Generation: Beyond the script, ChatGPT-4’s assistance extended to developing a WordPress plugin for generating tags for my blog posts. This plugin analyzes the content and contextually generates relevant tags, showcasing the AI’s versatility.

The Outcome: The result is a robust, AI-enhanced cybersecurity mechanism, complemented by an AI-driven tagging system for my blog. This project exemplifies the synergy between human expertise and AI in solving complex technical challenges.

Conclusion: This venture into AI-assisted development has not only fortified my server’s security but also revolutionised how I manage content on my blog. It stands as a testament to the power and potential of AI in cybersecurity and beyond.

Future Prospects: This successful collaboration with AI opens new horizons for future projects. I am excited to delve deeper into the integration of AI in various aspects of problem-solving, especially in technology and cybersecurity.

The Smart Ebike from Mercedes Benz – Update July 2020

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Smart eBike Support in the UK – 1 July 2020

I get quite a large number of messages in the UK requesting assistance with the Smart eBike. Whilst I am also an eBike owner, I also fall into the category of everyone else with regard to problem-solving and troubleshooting issues with our bikes. I have actually reached out to Mercedes Benz and highlighted the issue of ongoing support from them on these bikes, which of course cost all of us a fairly hefty sum of money at the time of purchase. 

Personally, I have struggled to get support with my bike and had to bend several peoples eardrums to get a result after feeling left high-and-dry in the event of needing assistance. I personally was successful getting the repair work done on my Smart eBike whilst also having a Firmware update to boot. The technician at Smart was very helpful and in fact, was excited to be involved in the maintenance of a vehicle that was no longer manufactured. This involved the installation of software on his PC and connection directly to the bike. It might well be a good time for Smart to release this software into the public domain to allow for their customers to continue to maintain their bikes for years to come.

This does continue to feel unfair as I have (like many others) approached bike repair shops for assistance and have got absolutely nowhere! So indeed the only port of call continues to be Mercedes Benz themselves.

So, the official line is that in event of any issues with your Smart eBike, you should contact Mercedes-Benz Customer Care on the following email address cs.uk@cac.mercedes-benz.com.  I am reliably informed that you will be assisted with your query.

You can also view the Smart eBike Owners manual online using this link. Now read on!!

Matt Porter – 1 July 2020


Last Saturday I visited Lancaster Mercedes in Ipswich, an hour later I left with a beautifully designed and engineered German machine. But this wasn’t an AMG SLK, this was the ‘smart e-bike’.
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