THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/10/25

Securing Tomorrow: Your Daily Dose of Cyber Safety, Tech Trends, National Defense News, and Inspiration.

“Fire tests gold; adversity tests strength.”

— Seneca

Two More CL-415 Super Scoopers On The Way To Fight Palisades Fire After One Damaged By Drone
A drone strike damaged a CL-415 Super Scooper firefighting aircraft battling the Palisades Fire, temporarily grounding all aerial operations and worsening challenges for crews fighting the 20,000-acre blaze. To bolster efforts, Cal Fire will receive two additional Super Scoopers from Canada and aims to repair the damaged aircraft by next week. The FBI is leading a major investigation and deploying anti-drone equipment to prevent further disruptions, while officials stress that flying drones in restricted zones is a federal crime with severe penalties. Help support firefighting efforts by staying informed, respecting flight restrictions, and spreading awareness to keep drones out of active fire zones.

The TikTok Ban Is More Likely Than Ever
TikTok’s fate in the U.S. hangs in the balance as the Supreme Court deliberates its appeal against a federal ban set to take effect January 19. Justices expressed concerns over national security and TikTok’s ties to ByteDance, but questioned whether banning the app violates First Amendment rights. If upheld, the ban would force TikTok off app stores, leaving existing users without updates and new downloads unavailable. The app could go dark soon after. Former President Trump has proposed a political resolution to save TikTok while addressing security concerns. Stay informed on the court’s decision and its potential impact on tech freedom and privacy.

Christian organizations CityServe, World Help partner with LA churches for wildfire relief efforts
The catastrophic wildfires in Los Angeles County have devastated communities, destroying over 9,000 structures, displacing 180,000 residents, and claiming at least 10 lives. In response, Christian organizations CityServe and World Help are leading relief efforts by providing essential supplies, temporary shelter, and long-term recovery support. CityServe is utilizing its vast church network to deliver aid efficiently, while World Help collaborates with local partners to ensure assistance reaches the most vulnerable. You can join these efforts by donating to CityServe at URL cityserve.org or World Help at URL worldhelp.net/LAWildfires to support those in need during this critical time.

Breaking down Meta’s community notes: innovation or a digital wild west?
Meta’s approach is bold but fraught with uncertainty. While it may foster freer expression for some, it risks alienating others and creating a fragmented, divisive digital space. Much will depend on how Community Notes are implemented and whether Meta can prevent the platform from becoming a digital battleground.For users and advertisers alike, the next few months will reveal whether this gamble pays off—or sets a precedent for greater disarray in social media. Click here to read more.

Israel, US, UK launch coordinated airstrikes on Houthi stronghold in Yemen
The coordinated Israeli-US-British airstrikes on Houthi targets in Yemen marked a significant escalation, targeting key military and dual-use infrastructure, including ports and power stations, to neutralize threats posed by the Iran-backed group. With over 20 Israeli aircraft participating and CENTCOM targeting underground facilities, the strikes aim to curb missile and drone attacks threatening regional and global security. While Israeli leaders defended the operations as vital for national defense, critics like Hamas condemned them as violations of international law. This action underscores the urgency of countering the Houthi threat and maintaining stability in the region. Stay informed and read more here.