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Securing Tomorrow: Your Daily Dose of Cyber Safety, Tech Trends, National Defense News, and Inspiration.
“Demonstrate to the world there is “No better friend, no worse enemy” than a U.S. Marine.”
– James Mattis
I. National Defense: Key developments in national defense, particularly cyber and technological warfare.
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Marine Corps F-35C Was Used in Combat for First Time to Strike Houthis, Military Confirms
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The U.S. Marine Corps’ F-35C Lightning II demonstrated its combat capabilities for the first time earlier this month, targeting Houthi-controlled weapon storage facilities in Yemen. Launched from the USS Abraham Lincoln, the F-35C conducted multiple airstrikes on November 9 and 10, neutralizing anti-ship missile threats used against commercial and military vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. This milestone marks the debut operational combat use of the Marine Corps variant of the F-35, showcasing its advanced offensive and defensive capabilities. Stay informed about the latest advancements in military technology and strategy.
II. Tech Trends: Updates on emerging technology trends shaping the digital world.
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Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy have spelled out their plans for DOGE
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Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, appointed as co-leads of President-elect Donald Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), have detailed their plans to streamline federal operations through significant agency cuts and regulatory rollbacks. Citing recent Supreme Court rulings, they propose using executive action to suspend enforcement of federal regulations they deem beyond Congress’s intent, aiming to stimulate the economy and shrink government. Plans include reducing federal workforce numbers, requiring in-office work to prompt voluntary resignations, and slashing funding for programs like the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and international grants. Musk and Ramaswamy target July 4, 2026, to complete DOGE’s mission. Stay informed about the latest shifts in government policy.
III. Inspiration: Articles centered on faith that offer guidance and reflection.
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Christian voters swayed 2024 presidential election, data show
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Self-identified Christian voters played a decisive role in the 2024 U.S. presidential election, with 56% backing President-elect Donald Trump, according to a Cultural Research Center report. Representing 72% of voters, Christian support outweighed non-Christian votes for Kamala Harris, ensuring Trump’s victory. Groups like Spiritually Active Governance Engaged Conservative Christians (SAGE Cons) showed near-perfect turnout at 99%, while support for Trump spanned subgroups, including 90% of SAGE Cons, 75% of Integrated Disciples, and 64% of Evangelicals. Trump’s policies on family, rule of law, and limited government appealed to Christians over Harris’ stances on issues like abortion and transgenderism. The report highlights the influence of churches in educating congregants on biblical perspectives and encouraging civic participation. Researchers urge pastors to actively shape the values of the next generation to sustain these outcomes. Engage with your community to discuss the impact of faith in shaping future elections.
IV. Cyber Safety: A focus on the latest cybersecurity threats, tips, or breaches impacting individuals and organizations.
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Microsoft introduces new security features to Windows: hot patching, quick recovery, fewer privileges
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Microsoft is preparing to roll out significant security enhancements for Windows in 2025, aiming to eliminate kernel access for applications, including antivirus software, and reinforce system resilience. Among the updates is the Quick Machine Recovery tool, enabling remote fixes for PCs stuck in boot loops without physical access. The system will default users to standard permissions, employing temporary isolated admin tokens for tasks requiring elevated privileges. Additionally, security tools like antivirus solutions will operate in user mode instead of kernel mode, reducing risks and minimizing system disruptions. Other features include Hotpatching for applying updates without restarts, Rust programming adoption for safer coding, and expanded encryption and privacy measures via Windows Hello and Zero Trust DNS. With these upgrades, Microsoft aims to counter growing threats like token theft and streamline security for businesses. Stay informed on these game-changing updates as Microsoft previews them throughout 2024.
V. Shield of Israel: Coverage from The Jerusalem Post, providing an Israeli perspective on ongoing conflicts.
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US Senate blocks bid to halt some Israel military sales
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The U.S. Senate decisively rejected a measure to block the sale of certain offensive weapons to Israel, with 79 senators opposing the resolution and 18 supporting it. Introduced by Senator Bernie Sanders and a few Democratic co-sponsors, the resolution aimed to address concerns over the treatment of Palestinian civilians in Gaza. Despite all supportive votes coming from Democrats, opposition included members of both parties, reflecting continued bipartisan support for Israel in Congress. This vote underscores the longstanding U.S. policy of backing Israel militarily, despite growing calls for reconsideration of human rights impacts. Stay updated as additional resolutions face votes.
