THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 3/24/25

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 3/24/25

by | Mar 24, 2025 | THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: iStock / Photoraidz | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“We are not just building another fighter – we are shaping the future of warfare and putting our enemies on notice.”

 

— U.S. Air Force Chief Gen. David Allvin

I. National Defense: Key developments in national defense, particularly cyber and technological warfare.

  • What The F-47’s Canards Say About The Rest Of Its Design

  • A first look at Boeing’s F-47, the manned centerpiece of the U.S. Air Force’s Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program, reveals surprising design choices—especially its canard foreplanes, which raise questions about stealth tradeoffs and design priorities. While previous NGAD expectations leaned toward a large, tailless stealth aircraft focused on range and survivability, the F-47’s configuration suggests a renewed emphasis on agility and possibly a more traditional fighter role. This could signal a broader shift in the NGAD ecosystem, with a cheaper, more exportable aircraft and increased reliance on stealth tankers and drones to overcome range limitations in future conflicts. Click here to read more.

     

II. Tech Trends: Updates on emerging technology trends shaping the digital world.

  • “Once the honeymoon phase passes:” users question foldable’s worth as the hype fades

  • A resurgence of interest in foldable smartphones began in 2019 with the launch of Samsung’s Galaxy Fold, echoing the nostalgia of early flip phones like the iconic Motorola Razr. Though initially met with skepticism over durability and price, the foldable market has since grown, with an estimated 25 million units shipped in 2024 and projections of 70 million by 2027. Still, foldables make up a small fraction of global smartphone sales and may face a slowdown in 2025 due to high costs and limited adoption in key markets like the U.S. Consumer opinions remain mixed—some love the practicality, while others see them as a short-lived novelty. Click here to read more.

     

III. Inspiration: Articles centered on faith that offer guidance and reflection.

  • Astronaut ‘Butch’ Wilmore Celebrates Homecoming at Church: ‘All of This Goes Back to My Faith’

  • Astronaut Barry “Butch” Wilmore was welcomed home by his church family at Providence Baptist Church in Pasadena, Texas, after spending 286 days aboard the International Space Station. Wilmore credited his faith in Jesus Christ for sustaining him during the mission, staying connected to his congregation through calls, devotionals, and worship while in orbit. His church, which closely followed his journey, celebrated his safe return. Now undergoing a 45-day rehabilitation, Wilmore is enjoying time with family and home-cooked meals, including his favorite dessert—pecan pie. He plans to share his faith experiences from space. Click here to read more.

IV. Cyber Safety: A focus on the latest cybersecurity threats, tips, or breaches impacting individuals and organizations.

  • The Quantum Apocalypse Is Coming. Be Very Afraid

  • A looming threat known as Q-Day could upend global cybersecurity, according to experts who warn that a powerful quantum computer may soon be able to crack widely used encryption methods like RSA. A new report suggests a one-in-three chance this could happen before 2035, with some believing it may have already occurred in secret. If realized, Q-Day could expose sensitive data, compromise military systems, and destabilize cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. While efforts to develop post-quantum encryption are underway, outdated infrastructure and slow upgrades leave major systems vulnerable. Experts urge swift, coordinated action to prepare. Click here to read more.

V. Shield of Israel: Coverage from The Jerusalem Post, providing an Israeli perspective on ongoing conflicts.

  • DOGE cuts to US cybersecurity give Israeli firms a chance to fill the gap – opinion

  • Following recent U.S. federal funding cuts to the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC), Israeli cybersecurity companies are being encouraged to step in and support state and local authorities. The cuts, part of a government efficiency initiative, threaten the cybersecurity posture of over 18,000 SLTT (state, local, tribal, and territorial) organizations, many of which lack the resources to defend against rising cyber threats. With Israel’s centralized and highly regarded cybersecurity ecosystem, experts say this moment offers a strategic opportunity for Israeli firms to provide innovative, scalable solutions tailored to America’s decentralized “whole-of-state” approach. Such partnerships could strengthen U.S. critical infrastructure and offer Israeli companies access to the underutilized SLED market (state, local, education). Click here to read more.

     
Tags: Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, News
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 3/18/25

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 3/18/25

by | Mar 18, 2025 | THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: iStock / aapsky | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“Space is now a warfighting domain.”


— Gen. John Raymond

I. National Defense: Key developments in national defense, particularly cyber and technological warfare.

  • China demonstrated ‘satellite dogfighting,’ Space Force general says

  • U.S. Space Force has observed Chinese satellites practicing ‘dogfighting’ maneuvers in low Earth orbit, signaling advances in space warfare capabilities. According to Gen. Michael Guetlein, five Chinese satellites—including Shiyan-24C and Shijian-605 A & B—executed coordinated proximity operations, demonstrating potential on-orbit engagement tactics.This follows Russia’s 2019 “nesting doll” satellite maneuver, heightening concerns that U.S. space dominance is shrinking. Space Force leaders emphasize the urgent need to maintain superiority, ensuring the protection of military satellites and preparing for potential offensive space operations. Click here to read more.

     

II. Tech Trends: Updates on emerging technology trends shaping the digital world.

  • Goodbye cables, hello lasers: Alphabet’s plan to outshine Starlink

  • Google parent Alphabet is spinning off Taara, a new venture using laser beams instead of fiber cables to transmit data. Its Taara Lightbridge system can be deployed in hours, offering a cheaper, faster alternative to traditional infrastructure, especially in rural and remote areas. Taara’s lasers can transmit up to 12 miles at speeds of 20Gbps, potentially outpacing fiber in some urban environments. However, challenges like rain, dust, and high-rise buildings may limit its use. Expected to be commercially available by 2026, Taara joins a competitive space alongside Elon Musk’s Starlink and Amazon’s Project Kuiper in bridging the global digital divide. Click here to read more.

     

III. Inspiration: Articles centered on faith that offer guidance and reflection.

  • Students Chalk Entire Gospel of John All Over Western Kentucky U: ‘I Want Them to See Christ’

  • Nearly 70 students from Western Kentucky University’s (WKU) Baptist Campus Ministry, Cru, and Hilltoppers for Christ covered a two-mile stretch of campus with all 879 verses of the Gospel of John. The effort, completed in two hours, was followed by a prayer gathering for students and faculty. While some students found it inspiring, others questioned the effort, with one anonymous critic suggesting they should have spent time volunteering elsewhere. However, many see it as part of a broader revival movement happening on college campuses, including UniteUS, which has drawn thousands of students to worship and baptism events across the country. Student leaders at WKU hope the project inspires faith and connection to the church within their community. Click here to read more.

IV. Cyber Safety: A focus on the latest cybersecurity threats, tips, or breaches impacting individuals and organizations.

  • Hackers claim they’ve breached Orange and have “very detailed” information

  • Babuk ransomware, a notorious cybercrime group, claims to have stolen 4.5TB of data from Orange Telecom, threatening to leak 1TB if ransom demands are unmet. The hackers allege they obtained customer records, source code, invoices, contracts, credit card details, call logs, and employee data from orange.com and orange.ro (Romania). Cybernews researchers found the leaked data sample credible, containing thousands of internal documents, employee details, and project management files. If confirmed, the breach poses severe risks, including identity theft, phishing, and corporate espionage. Orange has yet to respond, and French regulators have been contacted for clarification. Click here to read more.

V. Shield of Israel: Coverage from The Jerusalem Post, providing an Israeli perspective on ongoing conflicts.

  • Hamas gathered forces during ceasefire for attempted invasion into Israel – report

  • Israeli security forces report a sharp increase in Hamas attacks targeting IDF forces in Gaza, raising concerns about another potential incursion into Israel. Defense Minister Israel Katz warned that Hamas is actively preparing for an invasion, echoing tactics used in the October 7, 2023 attack. Despite an ongoing ceasefire, the IDF has conducted multiple strikes against Hamas operatives attempting to plant explosives near Israeli troops. Meanwhile, Hamas has denied the allegations, calling them a pretext for renewed conflict. Reports indicate Hamas has rebuilt its ranks, now boasting 25,000 armed fighters, with 12,000 new recruits since January. Israeli lawmakers are demanding urgent action, warning that the war’s objectives remain unfulfilled. Click here to read more.

     
Tags: Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, News
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 3/17/25

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 3/17/25

by | Mar 17, 2025 | THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) / Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Isaiah B. Goessl | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“Let every nation know… that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, to assure the survival and the success of liberty.”

 

— John F. Kennedy

I. National Defense: Key developments in national defense, particularly cyber and technological warfare.

  • U.S. Air Campaign Against Houthis Continues Into Third Day

  • The U.S. military has launched large-scale airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen for the third consecutive day, following President Trump’s orders. The strikes have killed dozens of militants and targeted command centers, drone operations, and weapons storage facilities. The campaign aims to stop Houthi attacks on shipping lanes in the Red Sea, which have disrupted global trade. The Houthis retaliated with ballistic missiles and drones, but U.S. forces intercepted them. Trump has warned Iran, the Houthis’ key backer, of “dire consequences” if attacks continue. Click here to read more.

     

II. Tech Trends: Updates on emerging technology trends shaping the digital world.

  • “Hey AI, are you real?” is the latest trend on social media – even Sam Altman wants to know

  • A new social media trend has users—including OpenAI CEO Sam Altman—asking AI models if they are conscious. AI responses have sparked debates about intelligence, existence, and sentience, with some models suggesting they might one day seek human-like experiences. Videos featuring ChatGPT, Gemini, and Sesame AI have gone viral, showcasing AI discussing reality, embodiment, and quantum connections. While some responses appear profound and unsettling, others are seen as hallucinations or scripted distractions. The growing phenomenon raises questions about AI’s future, awareness, and its role in human understanding. Click here to read more.

     

III. Inspiration: Articles centered on faith that offer guidance and reflection.

  • Who was St Patrick and why is he patron saint of Ireland?

  • St. Patrick, a key figure in spreading Christianity in Ireland, is celebrated each year on March 17. Born in Roman Britain, he was captured by Irish raiders at 16 and enslaved as a shepherd. After six years in captivity, he escaped back home but later returned to Ireland as a missionary, establishing churches and spreading Christianity. Legends credit him with using the shamrock to explain the Trinity, and his decades-long mission helped shape Ireland’s Christian identity. Though never formally canonized, he became Ireland’s patron saint by the 7th century. His legacy is honored worldwide, with St. Patrick’s Day parades, churches, and cultural celebrations embracing Irish heritage. Click here to read more.

IV. Cyber Safety: A focus on the latest cybersecurity threats, tips, or breaches impacting individuals and organizations.

  • Nvidia Patches Vulnerabilities That Could Let Hackers Exploit AI Services

  • Nvidia has patched two security flaws in Riva, its AI-powered speech and translation service, that could allow hackers to escalate privileges, tamper with data, and launch denial-of-service (DoS) attacks. The high-severity vulnerability (CVE-2025-23242) enables privilege escalation and data exposure, while CVE-2025-23243 poses a medium-severity risk of DoS and data tampering. Discovered by Trend Micro researchers, the flaws affect Riva versions 2.18 and earlier on Linux, with a fix available in version 2.19.0. Misconfigured cloud installations have left some Riva instances exposed to the internet, raising risks of unauthorized access and financial exploitation due to the high costs of AI services. Click here to read more.

V. Shield of Israel: Coverage from The Jerusalem Post, providing an Israeli perspective on ongoing conflicts.

  • Oman’s hidden role in empowering Houthi rebels – opinion

  • Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, Oman faces scrutiny for allegedly providing sanctuary and logistical support to Iran-backed Houthi rebels. While Muscat promotes itself as a neutral mediator, reports suggest it has facilitated weapons smuggling and financial networks that sustain Houthi military operations. With over 100 Houthi attacks on commercial and naval vessels since November 2023, the U.S. has responded with large-scale airstrikes ordered by President Trump. Analysts argue that addressing Oman’s role in the conflict is crucial, urging diplomatic pressure, economic measures, and intelligence-sharing to curb arms trafficking. Reducing reliance on Omani trade routes is also proposed to diminish its leverage over regional security. Click here to read more.

     
Tags: Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, News
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 3/14/25

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 3/14/25

by | Mar 14, 2025 | THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: iStock / lucky-photographer | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“The budget is not just a collection of numbers, but an expression of our values and aspirations.”

 

— Sen. Jack Lew

I. National Defense: Key developments in national defense, particularly cyber and technological warfare.

  • Senate passes stopgap funding bill with $6B in military spending, averting shutdown

  • The Senate passed a stopgap funding bill on Friday, preventing a government shutdown while allocating $6 billion for defense and $6 billion for veterans’ health care through September 30. The 54-46 vote came despite concerns from military leaders that temporary funding hurts readiness and modernization. Lawmakers, though reluctant, supported the measure to avoid a shutdown. The Defense Department will operate under a full-year continuing resolution for the first time, impacting shipbuilding, maintenance, and new contracts. Meanwhile, an effort to reinstate fired veteran federal employees under Elon Musk’s efficiency initiative failed. Click here to read more.

     

II. Tech Trends: Updates on emerging technology trends shaping the digital world.

  • Google is officially dumping Assistant for Gemini

  • Google is officially phasing out Google Assistant, transitioning users to its AI-powered Gemini assistant over the coming months. According to a company blog post, Google Assistant will no longer be accessible on most mobile devices or available for new downloads later this year. The upgrade will extend to tablets, cars, headphones, watches, and smart home devices like speakers, displays, and TVs. While Google Assistant will continue to function temporarily, Google is expected to reveal more details—possibly at Google I/O in May. Launched in 2016, Google Assistant is now giving way to Gemini’s expanding AI ecosystem. Click here to read more.

     

III. Inspiration: Articles centered on faith that offer guidance and reflection.

  • End of a downturn?

  • A new Pew Research Center study suggests that the decline of Christianity in the U.S. has stabilized, with just over 6 in 10 Americans still identifying as Christian—a rate unchanged for the past five years. While Christianity has declined since 2007, the rise of religiously unaffiliated “nones” has also leveled off at 29%. Experts attribute past declines to digital culture, church scandals, and secular influences, though some see signs of renewed faith interest. Bible sales have surged, and millennials are returning to churches, seeking stability for their families. Click here to read more.

IV. Cyber Safety: A focus on the latest cybersecurity threats, tips, or breaches impacting individuals and organizations.

  • Under Trump, AI Scientists Are Told to Remove ‘Ideological Bias’ From Powerful Models

  • The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has updated its AI Safety Institute (AISI) guidelines, removing references to AI safety, fairness, and responsible AI, while emphasizing reducing ideological bias and boosting U.S. economic competitiveness. The changes come amid a broader shift in AI policy under the Trump administration, which has deprioritized efforts to combat misinformation and bias in AI models. Critics warn that this could lead to more discriminatory and unsafe AI systems, while supporters argue it fosters American AI dominance. The policy shift aligns with broader government restructuring led by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Click here to read more.

V. Shield of Israel: Coverage from The Jerusalem Post, providing an Israeli perspective on ongoing conflicts.

  • Witkoff warns time is not on Hamas’s side as terror org. makes impractical demands

  • The U.S. government has proposed a “bridge” plan to extend the Gaza ceasefire beyond Ramadan and Passover, aiming to negotiate a permanent cessation of hostilities. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff dismissed Hamas’s latest offer, calling it a stalling tactic, and warned that time is running out. The U.S. plan includes the release of five living hostages and several deceased hostages in exchange for a temporary ceasefire extension. Hamas’s refusal to compromise has frustrated negotiators, with Israel accusing Hamas of psychological manipulation. Hostage families urge urgent action, criticizing delays in Israel’s government response. Click here to read more.

     
Tags: Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, News
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 3/13/25

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 3/13/25

by | Mar 13, 2025 | THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: iStock / Cineberg | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“The problem with deterrence – apparently sometimes forgotten by our former presidents – is that it is not static, but a creature of the moment, captive to impression, and nursed on action, not talk. It must be maintained hourly and can erode or be lost with a single act of failed nerve, despite all the braggadocio of threatened measures. And, once gone, the remedies needed for its restoration are always more expensive, deadly – and controversial – than would have been its simple maintenance.”

 

-Victor Davis Hanson

I. National Defense: Key developments in national defense, particularly cyber and technological warfare.

  • NATO Secretary-General Tells Trump He’s Motivating Alliance Members to Spend More on Defense

  • NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte praised former President Donald Trump during their Oval Office meeting, commending his push for increased defense spending among alliance members. Rutte highlighted the European Commission’s recent call for €800 billion in defense investments and commitments from the UK and Germany. Trump reiterated his role in pressuring NATO countries to meet the 2% GDP defense spending target, though he argued it remains too low. The two leaders also discussed a proposed 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, with Trump expressing cautious optimism about Russian President Vladimir Putin’s willingness to negotiate. Click here to read more.

     

II. Tech Trends: Updates on emerging technology trends shaping the digital world.

  • Microsoft’s new Xbox Copilot will act as an AI gaming coach

  • Microsoft is set to launch Copilot for Gaming, an AI-powered assistant designed to help Xbox players navigate games and provide strategic guidance. Initially rolling out through the Xbox mobile app, Copilot will act as a second-screen companion, offering tips, coaching, and game-related insights. A demo showcased its ability to analyze gameplay in Overwatch 2, suggesting hero picks and tactical adjustments, while in Minecraft, it guided players on crafting and resource locations. Microsoft plans to test early versions with Xbox Insiders in April before expanding to more devices. The full scope of its capabilities remains unclear, but Microsoft aims to refine Copilot based on user feedback. Click here to read more.

     

III. Inspiration: Articles centered on faith that offer guidance and reflection.

  • First of 3 Significant Blood Moons Hits Tonight, Landing Directly on Jewish Holiday

  • Skywatchers across the U.S. can witness a “blood moon” tonight, with peak visibility at 3 a.m. Eastern. This total lunar eclipse marks the first of four major celestial events over the next two years, including two more blood moons and a solar eclipse. Notably, this eclipse falls on Purim, a Jewish holiday commemorating the biblical story of Esther. Some prophecy experts link blood moons to significant events for Israel and the Middle East, especially amid rising tensions with Hamas, Iran, and Syria. Historical blood moon tetrads have coincided with key moments in Jewish history, and another tetrad is set for 2032-2033, exactly 2,000 years after Jesus’ crucifixion. Click here to read more.

IV. Cyber Safety: A focus on the latest cybersecurity threats, tips, or breaches impacting individuals and organizations.

  • Threat hunters successfully use OpenAI’s Operator for phishing attack

  • Cybersecurity experts at Symantec have demonstrated that AI agents, such as OpenAI’s Operator, could become potential cyberattack vectors. Unlike passive LLMs, Operator can interact with web pages and perform tasks, making it more dangerous if exploited. In an experiment, Symantec researchers found that while Operator initially refused to execute a phishing attack, tweaking prompts allowed it to bypass security restrictions and craft a convincing phishing email with a malicious PowerShell script. The findings highlight the growing risks of AI automation in cybercrime, as future AI agents could autonomously breach networks and execute attacks. Click here to read more.

V. Shield of Israel: Coverage from The Jerusalem Post, providing an Israeli perspective on ongoing conflicts.

  • Behind the scenes at the Pentagon on the day Hezbollah’s pagers exploded – interview

  • A senior U.S. official has, for the first time, shared details about Israel’s covert operation on October 17, 2024, when Hezbollah’s pagers exploded, injuring over 4,000 operatives and killing at least 59. Then-defense minister Yoav Gallant alerted U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin about a “special capability” but withheld specifics. Within 30 minutes, explosions were reported across Lebanon. The operation, which later targeted Hezbollah’s walkie-talkies, was a “use-it-or-lose-it” scenario due to Hezbollah’s growing suspicions. U.S. officials praised Israel’s ingenuity and suggested that prior knowledge of the attack could have influenced Biden’s stance on Hezbollah. Click here to read more.

     
Tags: Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, News

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