THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 11/13/24

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

“Peace through strength works; but the flip side is war invited by weakness.”

-Pete Hegseth

What you need to know about Pete Hegseth, Trump’s pick for Secretary of Defense
President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Pete Hegseth, a Fox News host and former Army National Guard officer, as defense secretary. Hegseth, who served in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Guantanamo Bay, has voiced strong opinions on military policies, including opposition to diversity initiatives and women in combat roles, advocating instead for a focus on traditional combat standards. Supporters commend his dedication to veterans, while critics question his lack of executive experience and views on inclusion. Trump praised Hegseth as a committed advocate for military personnel. Click here to read more.

IBM boosts the amount of computation you can get done on quantum hardware
IBM announced advancements in quantum computing hardware and software, aiming to make useful, albeit limited, quantum calculations possible even before error-corrected quantum computing fully arrives. The improvements include a more refined 133-qubit Heron processor, which addresses error-prone defects by adjusting qubit frequencies, and a faster, redefined software stack that reduces calculation times from 122 hours to just a few. IBM has also optimized its error mitigation strategy, using GPU-based algorithms to correct errors without overwhelming resources. While these advances don’t yet ensure quantum supremacy over classical computing, IBM’s tools are starting to support scientific research, such as simulating basic chemical structures. Click here to read more.

Chris Pratt Honors Combat Chaplains in New Veterans Day Documentary
Fighting Spirit, a new documentary produced by Chris Pratt and directed by Chris Hull, highlights the courage and dedication of combat chaplains—men and women who enter battle unarmed, motivated by a profound calling to serve others. Featuring stories from past and present, including that of Army chaplain Emil Kapaun, who chose to stay with soldiers in a Korean War POW camp knowing it would lead to his death, the film captures the selflessness of chaplains who support troops of all faiths. Hull, initially unfamiliar with chaplaincy, was struck by their bravery and the unique role they play in war. Click here to read more.

EU will hold tech companies liable for faulty software
The European Union has adopted a new directive expanding product liability to digital products, making it easier for consumers to claim damages for issues caused by software, firmware, or online platforms. This law, which excludes open-source software, holds manufacturers, importers, or EU-based representatives liable for defects, including cybersecurity vulnerabilities, that cause physical, property, or data damage. Injured parties can now request access to evidence to support their claims, and courts may lower the burden of proof in complex cases. EU member states have two years to incorporate this directive into national law. Click here to read more.

Israel Navy strikes Hezbollah in Beirut, while spying on distant enemies
The Israeli Navy has been actively involved in operations targeting Hezbollah’s infrastructure and personnel, including recent strikes on Hezbollah’s aerial commander Ali Barakat and naval sites in Beirut. These operations showcase the navy’s capabilities in long-range surveillance and precision strikes, often conducted from significant distances. The navy plays a crucial role in Israel’s defense, both in maritime security around natural gas sites and in broader missions against threats from Hezbollah, Hamas, and even the Houthis. The IDF recently revealed that Israel’s new “Dragon” submarine, set to arrive in 2025, will further enhance its strategic defense capabilities. Click here to read more.