THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 10/07/24

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 10/07/24

by | Oct 7, 2024 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, Operation Northern Arrows, Operation Swords of Iron, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: iStock / Elena Malgina | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“Peace will come when the Arabs will love their children more than they hate us.”

 

-Golda Meir

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

  • Israel on Oct. 7th, 2024: Honoring the Dead, Praying for Hostages after Hamas ‘Scar on Humanity’

  • One year after the October 7th massacre, Israel continues to fight a multi-front war against Iran’s proxy armies, while commemorating the lives lost. At 6:29 a.m., the moment terrorists breached the border a year ago, President Isaac Herzog observed a moment of silence and called the attack a “scar on humanity.” Memorial ceremonies, led by bereaved families and local communities, are taking place across Israel. As pro-Israel demonstrations mark the anniversary, Prime Minister Netanyahu reminded the world of Israel’s ongoing fight against Hamas, Hezbollah, and other threats.

    For more on these events, click here to read more.

     
     

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

  • Google must crack open Android for third-party stores, rules Epic judge

  • A federal judge has ruled in favor of Epic Games in its case against Google, declaring Google’s Play Store an illegal monopoly. Starting November 2024, Google must allow third-party app stores on its Play Store for three years, stop requiring Google Play Billing for in-app purchases, and give developers more freedom in how they handle payments and distribution. Google is expected to appeal the decision, but this ruling could change the Android app marketplace significantly by promoting competition.

    For more on this major ruling, click here to read more.

     
     

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

  • Dr. Phil Says Samaritan’s Purse Relief Effort in N.C. Is ‘America at its Best’

  • Dr. Phil McGraw is praising the swift efforts of Samaritan’s Purse and other private organizations in helping the people of western North Carolina, hit hard by Hurricane Helene. He noted how these groups mobilized to deliver supplies and aid to communities before government assistance arrived. McGraw has been on the ground, posting videos showing the devastation, with countless areas still without power, water, or cell service. He highlighted the unity among Americans, saying they are focused on helping their neighbors, regardless of politics. “It’s America at its best,” McGraw said.

    For more on these stories of resilience and aid, click here to read more.

     
     

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

  • Reports: China hacked Verizon and AT&T, may have accessed US wiretap systems

  • Chinese government hackers have reportedly breached the networks of major U.S. Internet service providers, including Verizon, AT&T, and Lumen, potentially gaining access to systems used for court-authorized wiretaps of communication networks. According to The Wall Street Journal, the attack, attributed to the Chinese hacking group Salt Typhoon, may have also provided hackers with access to broader internet traffic. U.S. government agencies, including the FBI and Homeland Security, are investigating the breach, which is suspected to involve China’s Ministry of State Security. Verizon has set up a war room in collaboration with the FBI, Microsoft, and Mandiant to address the situation.

    For more details on this developing story, click here to read more.

     
     

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

  • Watch: Oct. 7 was ‘paradise turned into hell,’ Herzog says at state ceremony

  • Israel’s President Isaac Herzog delivered a poignant address at a ceremony commemorating the one-year anniversary of the Hamas massacre on October 7, 2023, which turned a day of celebration into tragedy. The ceremony, hosted by families of victims and survivors, highlighted the resilience and unity of the Israeli people. Herzog expressed sorrow for the losses and hope for the return of hostages still held by Hamas, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s commitment to defeating its enemies. Songs, prayers, and testimonies of survivors added to the emotional tribute.

    For more on this commemoration, click here to read more.

     
     
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 10/04/24

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 10/04/24

by | Oct 4, 2024 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, Operation Northern Arrows, Operation Swords of Iron, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: pexels / Roberto Lee Cortes | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“It’s time to kick ass and chew bubble gum…and I’m all outta gum.”

 

-Duke Nukem

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

  • This Video Game Controller Has Become the US Military’s Weapon of Choice

  • In the future, U.S. troops may control advanced military systems using devices similar to Xbox or PlayStation controllers. The Department of Defense has integrated these game-like handsets, including the Freedom of Movement Control Unit (FMCU), into several weapons systems. These include anti-ship missile platforms and laser weapons. Designed to be ergonomic and familiar to younger generations, these controllers leverage skills many service members already have from gaming. The shift underscores how gaming tech is shaping modern warfare.

    For more on this evolving military trend, click here to read more.

     
     

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

  • Matt Mullenweg: ‘WordPress.org just belongs to me’

  • Matt Mullenweg, cofounder of WordPress, is asserting his control over the platform’s future in an escalating dispute with WP Engine. Mullenweg has criticized the third-party hosting service for not contributing enough to the WordPress open-source project and accused them of trademark misuse. As tensions rise, Mullenweg has blocked WP Engine from accessing WordPress.org’s servers, leaving its users unable to install updates. WP Engine has responded with a lawsuit, alleging extortion and corporate overreach, which raises concerns about Mullenweg’s conflicting roles at WordPress.org and Automattic.

    For more on this ongoing conflict, click here to read more.

     

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

  • ‘The Wooden Cross Still Stands’ Amid Devastation, and Pastor Returns Favor to Storm-Stricken Church

  • Despite the devastation from Hurricane Helene, stories of hope and faith have emerged. In Greenville, South Carolina, Pretty Place Chapel sustained heavy damage, but the cross remained standing, becoming a symbol of resilience and God’s presence. Community members have drawn inspiration from this, with many expressing that it strengthened their faith. Churches like Biltmore Church in Ardan, North Carolina, are actively helping those affected by the storm, demonstrating the Gospel through their service. Additionally, a Kentucky pastor is returning the favor to a North Carolina church that once helped his community during a crisis.

    For more on these uplifting stories, click here to read more.

     
     

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

  • Tales from the 90s: Can you be ghosted by someone who uses a pager?

  • In the pre-smartphone era, pagers were the first tech tool used in the dating world, offering a mix of convenience and mystery. During their heyday in the ’90s, pagers were affordable status symbols that teens and young adults flaunted. They became an essential part of the culture, even sparking a form of pager “code” for communicating with numbers and symbols. Unlike today’s smartphones, where ghosting and instant responses are common, pagers encouraged a slower, more deliberate form of communication, and the anxiety of being ignored was far less prominent.

    For more on the pager’s nostalgic role in communication, click here to read more.

     

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

  • Only way for Israeli northerners to return home is boots on ground in south Lebanon – editorial

  • As Israel continues its campaign against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, the nation stands united in support of the IDF’s mission to dismantle terror threats and secure its northern border. With leaders from both the government and opposition backing the ground invasion, the operation has become a national consensus. Despite the challenges and fears of war, Israelis are encouraged to remain strong, believing in the eventual return to peace. The Jerusalem Post wishes the IDF success and prays for the safe return of all hostages and displaced residents.

    For more on this, click here to read more.

     
     
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 10/03/24

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 10/03/24

by | Oct 3, 2024 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, Operation Northern Arrows, Operation Swords of Iron, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) / Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Kassandra Alanis | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”

 

-Winston S. Churchill

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

  • Watch the USS Bulkeley help shoot down Iran’s missile attack on Israel

  • The U.S. Navy destroyers Bulkeley and Cole played a key role in defending Israel from Iran’s massive ballistic missile attack on Tuesday. Utilizing AEGIS weapons systems designed for missile defense, both warships successfully intercepted several missiles. Video footage released by the Navy highlights Bulkeley’s involvement as the ship operated in the Eastern Mediterranean. Pentagon officials confirmed that Israel intercepted the majority of the approximately 200 missiles, resulting in minimal damage and no casualties on the ground.

    For more on this event, click here to read more.

     
     

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

  • The WIRED AI Elections Project

  • Generative AI is making its way into global elections, with deepfakes and AI-generated content used to manipulate campaigns and voters. As more than 2 billion people in over 60 countries head to the polls in 2024, the widespread availability of this technology raises concerns about misinformation and disinformation. From fake endorsements to altered speeches, AI is poised to reshape the political landscape, amplifying existing challenges like misleading content despite the introduction of guardrails by tech companies.

    For more on AI’s impact on elections, click here to read more.

     
     

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

  • Only 35% of Evangelicals think they’re ready to share biblical truths: poll

  • A new survey by the Institute of Faith and Culture in collaboration with Lifeway Research found that while 92% of Evangelicals believe they have a responsibility to share biblical truths, many don’t feel prepared for the task. Only 35% feel ready to address cultural and controversial issues, though a majority agree that their churches help them engage with differing views. Additionally, while 50% of respondents want to promote biblical truth to those they know, fewer feel comfortable doing so in situations where the Bible’s positions may be unpopular.

    For more on this insightful survey, click here to read more.

     
     

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

  • Who owns your shiny new Pixel 9 phone? You can’t say no to Google’s surveillance

  • In this article, Cybernews researchers reveal significant privacy concerns surrounding Google’s Pixel 9 Pro XL smartphone. Their analysis shows that the device continuously transmits personal user data, such as email addresses, phone numbers, and location, to Google’s servers, even without user consent. Additionally, the phone appears to have remote management capabilities, allowing Google to install new software or change settings without the user’s knowledge. These findings raise concerns about privacy, user control, and potential security vulnerabilities associated with the device.

    For more on these privacy concerns, click here to read more.

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

  • No. 29: Jerry Seinfeld: A comedian who gets serious on supporting Israel

  • In this article, comedian Jerry Seinfeld’s actions over the past year highlight his strong support for Israel, especially after the Hamas attacks on October 7. Seinfeld, along with his wife, visited southern Israel and spoke with families affected by the violence. Despite backlash, including a walkout at Duke University and hecklers at his stand-up shows, Seinfeld remains unwavering in his support. His connection to Israel, which began in his youth, continues to resonate deeply, earning him a place among the year’s most influential Jews.

    For more on this story, click here to read more.

     
     
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 10/02/24

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 10/02/24

by | Oct 2, 2024 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, Operation Northern Arrows, Operation Swords of Iron, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: pixabay / DenisDoukhan | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: May they prosper who love you.”

 

-Psalm 122:6 (NKJV)

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

  • World Braces For Israel’s Retaliation To Iran’s Ballistic Missile Barrage

  • In this article, escalating tensions between Israel and Iran come to the forefront as Israel prepares to retaliate for a major missile barrage launched by Iran. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi have vowed retribution, emphasizing Israel’s capability to strike any target in the Middle East. Iranian leaders, in turn, warn of a more devastating response if Israel retaliates. The U.S. has urged restraint, but Israel appears set on a decisive military response, with potential consequences for the broader region, including U.S. involvement.

    For more on this unfolding conflict, click here to read more.

     
     

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

  • Eight Scientists, a Billion Dollars, and the Moonshot Agency Trying to Make Britain Great Again

  • In this article, Ilan Gur, CEO of the UK’s Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA), pushes plant biologists to think boldly about scientific breakthroughs. ARIA, modeled after the U.S. ARPA, seeks high-risk, high-reward projects to elevate British science. Gur envisions funding transformational ideas like synthetic plants, alongside programs targeting AI safety and climate solutions. With £800 million in public funding, ARIA embraces risk and innovation, aiming to restore the UK’s reputation for scientific advancement by breaking through traditional funding barriers.

    For more on this ambitious initiative, click here to read more.

     
     

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

  • Israel’s righteous war and lessons for Americans

  • In this article, the author discusses Israel’s recent military actions against Hezbollah and its leadership in response to escalating attacks. Israel eliminated top Hezbollah leaders, including Hassan Nasrallah, in retaliation for ongoing missile assaults and threats to Israeli citizens. The article outlines three key lessons from these events: the decline in U.S. influence over Israel’s military strategy, the justice in eliminating terrorists responsible for American deaths, and the persistent threat posed by Islamist militants, particularly with Iran’s growing influence and nuclear ambitions. The piece calls for stronger U.S. support for its allies to effectively confront shared adversaries.

    For more on this strategic analysis, click here to read more.

     

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

  • Data leak hits Latin America’s financial institutions, leads point to fintech app

  • In this article, Cybernews reveals that digital banking platform Bankingly exposed the personal data of nearly 135,000 clients from seven financial institutions across Central and South America due to misconfigured Azure Blob Storage buckets. Affected countries include the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Ecuador, El Salvador, Bolivia, and Costa Rica, with the Dominican Republic being the hardest hit. The exposed data included full names, usernames, emails, and phone numbers, posing a significant risk for phishing and social engineering attacks. Bankingly has since secured the data, though the breach highlights the broader risks of using third-party service providers for financial institutions.

    For more on this data breach and its implications, click here to read more.

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

  • The media must stop presenting antisemitism as legitimate criticism – opinion

  • In this article, the author addresses the deep-rooted ideology of Palestinian groups that reject the legitimacy of the Jewish state, viewing the land as occupied from “the river to the sea.” The piece explores how this ideology, supported by radical Islamic groups and other political factions, fuels modern antisemitism, especially after events like the October 7 Hamas attack. The author also traces the history of antisemitism from religious conflicts to modern-day media distortions, expressing concern over rising global antisemitism and its impact on Jewish communities, particularly among youth.

    For more on this important analysis, click here to read more.

     
     
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 10/01/24

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 10/01/24

by | Oct 1, 2024 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, Operation Northern Arrows, Operation Swords of Iron, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: pixabay / cagrikarip | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“Proclaim ye this among the Gentiles; Prepare war, wake up the mighty men, let all the men of war draw near; let them come up:”

 

-Joel 3:9 (KJV)

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

  • ALERT: Iran Launches Attack on Israel After IDF Begins Ground Incursion in Lebanon

  • In this article, CBN News reports on Iran’s launch of a major ballistic missile attack on Israel, with over 100 missiles targeting key cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. The strikes come after Israel began a ground incursion into southern Lebanon, aimed at dismantling Hezbollah’s terror infrastructure. While some missiles were intercepted, several made impact, escalating tensions further. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) clarified that the invasion is aimed solely at Hezbollah, not the Lebanese people. Despite calls for a ceasefire from President Biden, Israel continues its efforts to neutralize the threat.

    For more details on the escalating conflict, click here to read more.

     
     

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

  • We tested six smart rings, and there’s a clear winner

  • In this article, the author reviews six popular smart rings—Oura Ring, Ultrahuman Ring Air, Circular Slim, Samsung Galaxy Ring, RingConn, and Evie Ring—through rigorous testing to determine the best one. Despite some strong contenders, such as the fitness-focused Ultrahuman Ring Air and the sleek Samsung Galaxy Ring, most rings were eliminated due to issues like accuracy, syncing, or limited functionality. Ultimately, the Oura Ring remains the top choice, excelling in overall experience, accuracy, and user-friendliness, though it comes with a $6 monthly subscription.

    For more on this comprehensive review, click here to read more.

     

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

  • Thousands of North Carolina residents look to local church for supplies, prayer: ‘People are broken’

  • In this article, Kristi Brown, a member of First Baptist Church in Hendersonville, shares her experience helping thousands of residents affected by Hurricane Helene. The storm has devastated the region, leaving many people without power, basic supplies, and hope. Despite the immense suffering, Brown emphasizes the opportunity to offer spiritual support and prayer, noting how the disaster has unified the community. While the recovery will take years, Brown highlights how the crisis is bringing people together in ways they haven’t seen in a long time.

    For more on this inspiring story of hope and resilience, click here to read more.

     

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

  • T-Mobile pays $16 million fine for three years’ worth of data breaches

  • In this article, T-Mobile has agreed to pay a $15.75 million fine and invest an equal amount to improve its cybersecurity following a series of data breaches between 2021 and 2023, impacting tens of millions of customers. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) launched an investigation, citing T-Mobile’s failure to protect customer data, including names, Social Security numbers, and driver’s license numbers. As part of the settlement, T-Mobile will implement stronger security measures, including zero trust architecture and phishing-resistant multi-factor authentication, while denying wrongdoing but agreeing to prioritize consumer protection.

    For more on this significant settlement, click here to read more.

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

  • Netanyahu vows strong retaliation against Iran following missile attacks on Israel

  • In this article, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Iran of severe repercussions after it launched nearly 200 missiles at Israel, marking an intensifying conflict between the two nations. Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s readiness to defend itself and retaliate, citing past Israeli actions like the assassinations of Iranian nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakrzadeh and Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. The confrontation has drawn sharp responses from both the US and Iran, with Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei threatening even stronger reprisals against Israel.

    For more on this escalating conflict, click here to read more.

     
     
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 09/30/24

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 09/30/24

by | Sep 30, 2024 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, Operation Northern Arrows, Operation Swords of Iron, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: Pexels / Pixabay | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him.”

 

-Nahum 1:7

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

  • Helene Leaves ‘Heartbreaking’ Devastation Across the South as Death Toll Passes 100

  • Hurricane Helene has caused widespread devastation throughout the South, leaving at least 107 people dead and millions without power due to record-breaking flooding. Western North Carolina has been hit hardest, with rescue crews searching for the missing and providing relief. In Asheville, massive flooding and damage have cut off access to the city. Operation Blessing is on the ground, delivering aid in Georgia and North Carolina, helping communities recover.

    For more details and to partner with Operation Blessing, click here to read more.

     
     

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

  • Trump: Musk’s Starlink will provide emergency internet for Hurricane Helene victims

  • Donald Trump announced that he is collaborating with Elon Musk to provide Starlink satellite internet services for victims of Hurricane Helene, who are currently without communication. Speaking at a campaign rally in Georgia, Trump stated that he had spoken to Musk about setting up Starlink in the devastated areas across the Southeast. Starlink, owned by SpaceX, is known for its rapid deployment in emergency situations, previously aiding Ukraine during infrastructure outages.

    For more details on this collaboration and the ongoing relief efforts, click here to read more.

     

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

  • A message to the if-I-could-just-see-a-miracle crowd

  • In this article, Robin Schumacher addresses those who claim they would believe in God if they witnessed a miracle firsthand. He explores biblical examples where people saw extraordinary miracles but still rejected God, highlighting the importance of having a heart and mind open to faith. Citing examples from Moses’ time, Jesus’ ministry, and the apostle Paul, Schumacher argues that miracles alone do not change hearts unless God “turns them on” to truly understand His message. He encourages readers to seek a transformed heart and mind, as the greatest miracle is spiritual rebirth.

    For more on this thought-provoking reflection, click here to read more.

     

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

  • Verizon says it fixed the outage that brought mobile services down across the country

  • Verizon experienced a major nationwide outage on Monday, affecting mobile data, voice, and text services for several hours. The outage, which impacted customers in various cities across the U.S., caused users’ phones to display SOS mode, signaling the lack of connectivity. The issue, concentrated mainly on the East Coast, led to over 1.5 million user reports between 8 AM and 4 PM ET on Downdetector. Verizon engineers worked to resolve the problem, and by 7:18 PM ET, the company announced that services had been fully restored. The FCC was aware of the disruption and was investigating its cause and extent.

    For more details, click here to read more.

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

  • IDF begins ground operation in southern Lebanon, attacks Hezbollah terror targets

  • The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that it had initiated limited, targeted ground raids in southern Lebanon, marking the first ground operation since the 2006 Lebanon War. The objective of the raids is to dismantle Hezbollah’s infrastructure near the border based on precise intelligence. This escalation comes amid ongoing conflict with Hezbollah, which has been marked by Israeli airstrikes and targeted assassinations of Hezbollah leaders, including the recent killing of Hezbollah’s chief, Hassan Nasrallah. Despite concerns from the U.S. and other Western nations, Israel’s focus remains on neutralizing Hezbollah’s capabilities, which have been significantly weakened in recent weeks. The operation is part of a broader IDF strategy planned and prepared for by Israel’s Northern Command.

    For more details, click here to read more.

     

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