THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/15/25

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/15/25

by | Jan 15, 2025 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, Operation Swords of Iron, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) / Marine Corps Cpl. Michael Taggart | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“The safest place in Korea was right behind a platoon of Marines. Lord, how they could fight!”

 

– MGen. Frank E. Lowe, USA; Korea, 1952

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

  • ‘Going the Wrong Way:’ Booting Marines from Okinawa Could Embolden China, Commandant Says

  • The planned relocation of 9,000 U.S. Marines from Okinawa to Guam, Hawaii, Australia, and the continental U.S. under the Defense Policy Review Initiative (DPRI) has sparked concerns among military leaders, particularly regarding its strategic impact. Marine Corps Commandant Gen. Eric Smith argues that the move distances critical forces from the first island chain near China, potentially weakening deterrence. While the U.S. and Japan aim to reduce the strain on Okinawa’s residents and honor treaty obligations, Smith warns that infrastructure challenges in Guam, such as upgrading Apra Harbor, and the strategic importance of proximity to the Indo-Pacific crisis theater, may outweigh the benefits. Policymakers must carefully weigh these considerations to ensure long-term regional security.
     

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

  • Trump mulls executive order to save TikTok

  • President-elect Donald Trump has signaled he may issue an executive order delaying the enforcement of the TikTok ban for 60 to 90 days, potentially extending its operations until March or April 2025. This decision would provide TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, additional time to negotiate a divestiture or other resolutions to meet U.S. national security concerns. With the app’s shutdown otherwise slated for January 19, the move could offer relief to its 170 million American users and avert a looming disruption to its operations. However, questions remain about TikTok’s ties to the Chinese government, mirroring concerns linked to alternative apps like Rednote and Lemon8. The extension reflects a complex balance between free speech, national security, and Trump’s personal connection to TikTok’s vast platform.
     

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

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

  • FBI Uses Malware’s Own ‘Self-Delete’ Trick to Erase Chinese PlugX From US Computers

  • The FBI, in collaboration with French law enforcement and cybersecurity firm Sekoia.io, eradicated the China-linked PlugX malware from over 4,200 infected U.S. computers using the malware’s self-delete mechanism. Through court-authorized access to a command-and-control server, investigators remotely issued commands to neutralize the remote access trojan without disrupting legitimate files. PlugX, used by the Chinese-government-affiliated Mustang Panda group since 2008, had been harvesting sensitive data from governments, businesses, and dissidents worldwide. The FBI is notifying affected users through ISPs, marking a significant victory in global cybersecurity cooperation. This highlights the importance of proactive measures against state-sponsored cyber threats.

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

  • Gaza hostage deal: How phase one of ceasefire deal will be implemented – explainer

  • The proposed ceasefire and hostage deal between Israel and Hamas outlines a phased IDF withdrawal from Gaza, the reopening of the Rafah border crossing under joint Israeli-Egyptian control, supervised refugee returns, and a high-stakes hostage exchange involving the release of thousands of Palestinian prisoners. While the agreement seeks to address humanitarian needs and facilitate peace, it faces criticism over security implications and unresolved disputes over key areas like the Philadelphi corridor. Click here to read more about the deal’s terms and potential ramifications.
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/14/25

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/14/25

by | Jan 14, 2025 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, Operation Swords of Iron, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: Coast Guard photo by Tim Cusak, courtesy of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“The sea has never been friendly to man. At most, it has been the accomplice of human restlessness.”

 

— Joseph Conrad

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

  • Coast Guard fires at Mexican smugglers along California coast after vessel rams patrol boat

  • Coast Guard members engaged in a high-stakes pursuit and opened fire to disable a vessel smuggling migrants off the coast of San Diego on January 5, 2025. The smugglers, Oscar Eduardo Audelo-Rodriquez and Francisco Brado-Cota, evaded initial Border Patrol efforts, ramming a Coast Guard vessel and throwing metal objects at its crew. Coast Guard personnel disabled the boat’s motor with gunfire, deployed pepper balls, and subdued the men with pepper spray during boarding. The two were arrested and identified as the vessel’s captain and co-captain, while migrants detained earlier reported paying between $7,000 and $19,000 for illegal entry into the U.S. The incident highlights the Coast Guard’s role in countering high-risk smuggling operations.
     

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

  • A Spymaster Sheikh Controls a $1.5 Trillion Fortune. He Wants to Use It to Dominate AI

  • Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed al Nahyan, UAE’s national security adviser and overseer of a $1.5 trillion sovereign wealth empire, is leveraging his vast resources to position Abu Dhabi as a global AI powerhouse. Known for his eccentric pursuits, including jiujitsu and a previous obsession with the chess computer Hydra, Tahnoun has pivoted from fostering deep ties with China to aligning with U.S. tech giants like Microsoft. This move follows the U.S. ban on exporting Nvidia GPUs to the Middle East, forcing the UAE to sever connections with Chinese firms such as Huawei. Despite concerns over the UAE’s authoritarian tendencies and potential ties with China, Tahnoun’s investments and partnerships with firms like OpenAI and Nvidia signal a bold bid to control the future of AI. As his influence expands, questions about the global impact of this alliance grow. Click here to read more.
     

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

  • God Redeems Even as Wildfires Spread

  • In the wake of the devastating Southern California wildfires, which have claimed lives, homes, and communities, the message from Isaiah 43 offers a profound reflection on navigating catastrophe. As Fuller Theological Seminary professor highlights, these fires echo a deeper spiritual call: that God redeems not to shield us from instability but to prepare us for it. In a world marked by disruption, the passage invites Christians to embrace “defiant joy”—not a denial of loss but a courageous affirmation of God’s ongoing work of transformation. In the face of chaos, we are called to mourn with the grieving, open our hearts and homes, and commit to the hopeful, disruptive newness God promises. Click here to read more.

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

  • TikTok’s last dance: the ‘spy’ you can’t quit

  • As TikTok faces a likely ban in the U.S. on January 19, users are embracing a bittersweet farewell with a viral flurry of creative tributes, parodying cultural moments like Squid Game and humorously thanking their “Chinese spy.” While uncertainty looms over where users might migrate, apps like Xiaohongshu (Rednote) and Lemon8 are emerging as potential contenders, despite their Chinese ties and feature limitations. The ongoing “TikTok migration” highlights how social media innovation persists amid regulatory challenges, promising that the thirst for viral content creation won’t fade—no matter the platform. Keep an eye on these transitions, as the digital landscape reshapes before our eyes!

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

  • Heart vs head: The hostage deal and the cost of compassion – analysis

  • Israel’s agreement to release hostages in exchange for thousands of Palestinian prisoners, including convicted terrorists, reflects a profound moral and strategic crossroads. The deal embodies Israel’s ethos of mutual responsibility and prioritizes the reunification of families and national healing, even as it risks incentivizing future hostage-taking, escalating terrorism, and leaving Hamas’s infrastructure intact. While the immediate relief and solidarity gained are undeniable, the long-term implications of emboldened enemies and potential security threats may challenge Israel’s strategic resilience for years to come. How do you weigh the balance between compassion and caution in such critical decisions?
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/13/25

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/13/25

by | Jan 13, 2025 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, Operation Swords of Iron, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) / Air Force Senior Airman Nicholas Rupiper | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“In preparing for battle I have always found that plans are useless, but planning is indispensable.”

 

-Dwight D. Eisenhower

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

  • Kendall floats F-35 successor, casts 2050 vision for Air Force

  • Outgoing Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall has outlined options for the U.S. Air Force’s future under the incoming Trump administration, suggesting a potential pivot from the costly Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) platform to a more advanced and affordable F-35 successor to maintain air superiority. Kendall’s report, The Department of the Air Force in 2050, highlights the need for transformation to address evolving threats, including China’s military advancements and a potential conflict over Taiwan. Meanwhile, the Space Force is projected to significantly expand, focusing on resilient satellite architectures, missile tracking, and counterspace capabilities to deter adversaries. The decisions made by the next administration will shape the strategic trajectory of the Air Force and Space Force for decades. Stay informed about these critical developments as they unfold.
     

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

  • Tech leaders on AGI: when will it change the world?

  • Leading figures in AI offer varying predictions for the emergence of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), ranging from a few years to a decade or more. OpenAI’s Sam Altman optimistically suggests AGI could arrive as early as this year, while Google DeepMind’s Demis Hassabis and Meta’s Yann LeCun propose it may take a decade due to required breakthroughs in reasoning and memory capabilities. Tesla’s Elon Musk also anticipates AGI within two years but cautions about its risks, echoing concerns from Anthropic’s Dario Amodei about the challenges and potential dangers. Despite differing timelines and definitions, all agree AGI will fundamentally transform society. Stay engaged to explore this pivotal technological frontier.
     

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

  • ‘Fighter’ Singer Jon Kahn Turns to God after Losing Home in Palisades Fire

  • Jon Kahn, the singer-songwriter known for his hit Trump tribute “Fighter,” is drawing on faith after losing his home in the Palisades fire. Witnessing his home burn through a Ring camera, Kahn shared that the only recognizable item left was an American flag pitcher. Speaking on Fox & Friends, he expressed gratitude for his community’s support and pledged to keep creating music. Kahn, whose song “Fighter” became a #1 hit and a rallying anthem for Donald Trump, emphasized resilience, saying, “There is nothing you can do about it…you get back on your feet.” Support and prayers continue to pour in for the artist as he navigates this loss.

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

  • AI Won’t Take This Job: Microsoft Says Human Ingenuity Crucial to Red-Teaming

  • Microsoft’s research highlights that despite advancements in generative AI, effective red-teaming for AI systems still requires human expertise, particularly in nuanced areas like cultural competence, emotional intelligence, and specialized risk assessment. Their AI red team tested over 100 products and stressed that tools like PyRIT can streamline operations, but humans remain essential to addressing vulnerabilities, interpreting cultural contexts, and managing emotionally sensitive scenarios. A case study on chatbot responses to distressed users further emphasized the need for mental health support for red-teamers exposed to disturbing content. As AI models expand attack surfaces, Microsoft underscores the irreplaceable role of humans in securing AI systems. Stay informed about these critical security developments.

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

  • Israel will not release Nukhba terrorists in possible Gaza hostage deal – diplomatic source

  • Israel has indicated it will exclude Hamas terrorists from the Nukhba forces involved in the October 7 massacre from any prisoner exchange as part of a potential hostage deal. While the list includes some individuals serving life sentences, it explicitly excludes those associated with the Nukhba forces. The initial phase of the proposed deal would involve the release of 33 hostages, none of whom are confirmed deceased. Israeli officials, including the Shin Bet and Mossad heads, remain in Doha to negotiate the deal. Stay tuned for updates as this situation develops.
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/10/25

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

by | Jan 10, 2025 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, Operation Swords of Iron, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: iStock / hlsnow | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“Fire tests gold; adversity tests strength.”

 

— Seneca

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

  • 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.
     

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

  • 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.
     

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

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

  • 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.

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

  • 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. 
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/9/25

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/9/25

by | Jan 9, 2025 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, Operation Swords of Iron, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: iStock / Toa55 | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another.”

 

— Charles Dickens

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

  • More than 9,000 structures damaged or destroyed in Palisades and Eaton fires, officials estimate

  • The Palisades and Eaton wildfires continue to devastate Los Angeles County, with over 9,000 structures damaged or destroyed and nearly 34,000 acres burned. The fires, driven by hurricane-force winds, have claimed at least five lives, forced 130,000 residents to evacuate, and resulted in widespread property damage. Officials anticipate the death toll will rise as conditions stabilize for assessment. Curfews and National Guard support have been initiated to prevent looting and aid firefighting efforts. Despite slightly calmer winds, red flag warnings persist, and fire risk remains high. Support relief efforts by donating to local organizations aiding affected families and firefighters, and stay vigilant with updated evacuation alerts.
     

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

  • LA residents find a lifeline in this free wildfire-tracking app

  • Watch Duty, a nonprofit-run wildfire tracking app, has surged in popularity amid devastating Los Angeles wildfires, providing real-time alerts, evacuation routes, and updates through a map-based interface. Powered by a network of 200 volunteers, including firefighters and first responders, the app offers faster, verified information compared to government services. With its user base skyrocketing to 7.2 million by late 2024, Watch Duty has become a lifeline for those in high-risk fire zones. Crucially, it remains free to use, funded by donations and premium subscriptions without selling user data. Download Watch Duty now to stay informed and safe during wildfire emergencies.
     

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

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

  • EU court fines EU for breaching its own data protection laws

  • The European General Court has ruled against the European Commission for violating GDPR by illegally transferring a German citizen’s data to the U.S., awarding €400 ($412) in damages. This landmark case marks the first instance of the EU being fined for breaching its own privacy regulations. The ruling underscores GDPR’s strict enforcement, with Meta among the most heavily penalized corporations, facing billions in fines since 2018. The decision highlights the EU’s commitment to safeguarding personal data rights. Learn more about your data protection rights under GDPR.
     

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

  • In vote of 243-140, ICC sanctions bill passes House, heads to Senate

  • The U.S. House of Representatives has passed the “Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act,” targeting the International Criminal Court (ICC) with sanctions over its arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. The Republican-led bill, which passed 243-140, reflects strong opposition to the ICC’s actions, with proponents labeling the court’s rulings as overreach against U.S. allies. Critics, including Rep. Jim McGovern, voiced concerns about prioritizing this legislation over pressing domestic and humanitarian issues. Stay updated on this legislation’s progress and its implications for international relations and justice.
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/8/25

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/8/25

by | Jan 8, 2025 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, Operation Swords of Iron, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: iStock / Kirkikis | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“We must adjust to changing times and still hold to unchanging principles.”

 

— Jimmy Carter

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

  • ‘Devoted his life to service and sacrifice’: American public says goodbye as Carter lies in state at Capitol

  • Thousands gathered in Washington, D.C., to honor former President Jimmy Carter as he lay in state in the Capitol Rotunda, a tribute to his life of public service and humanitarian efforts. The 39th president, who passed away at age 100, was remembered for his humility, faith, and dedication, from his Navy service to his work with Habitat for Humanity and global human rights. Mourners braved winter conditions to pay respects, sharing personal stories of Carter’s impact. A national funeral service will follow at Washington National Cathedral, and Carter will be laid to rest in Georgia with a ceremonial Navy flyover. Join in celebrating Jimmy Carter’s legacy by reflecting on his life of service and the values he exemplified.
     

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

  • Microsoft teases ‘major’ Surface business announcement for January 30th

  • Microsoft is set to make a “major” Surface announcement on January 30th during its AI tour in New York City, with hints pointing to Intel Lunar Lake-powered versions of the Surface Laptop 7 and Surface Pro 11 tailored for business users. This follows the release of earlier models featuring Intel Meteor Lake processors and Surface Copilot Plus devices with Qualcomm chips. While updates to other Surface devices, like the Surface Laptop Studio and hybrid Surface Go, are also anticipated, this event will likely focus on business-oriented innovations. Stay tuned for live updates on this pivotal announcement and the latest in Surface technology!
     

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

  • Joe Rogan Explores the Evidence for Jesus’ Resurrection with Apologist Wesley Huff

  • Christian apologist Wesley Huff appeared on The Joe Rogan Experience to discuss the historical and biblical evidence for the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. In a wide-ranging, three-hour conversation, Huff highlighted the robust historical testimony for Jesus, comparing it to figures like Roman Emperor Tiberius, and explained why early disciples were willing to die for their belief in the resurrection. Rogan expressed curiosity but skepticism, acknowledging the transformative impact of living by Christian principles. With nearly 2 million views on YouTube, the discussion offers compelling insights into faith and history. Watch the full episode to explore the evidence and reflect on the impact of Christianity today.

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

  • Garmin Connect suffers worldwide outage: users speculate hackers behind it

  • Garmin Connect and related services have suffered a widespread outage, leaving users unable to sync activities, access workout stats, or utilize features like Garmin Pay and incident detection. While Garmin devices can still track workouts independently, activities won’t sync with the app until the issue is resolved. Users worldwide, from Australia to the U.S., have expressed frustration, with some speculating a potential cyberattack. This disruption coincides with Garmin’s recent launch of the Instinct 3 watch, amplifying user dissatisfaction. Stay tuned for updates and visit Garmin’s status page for real-time information on service restoration.
     

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

  • Katz convenes meeting on Turkey’s Middle East influence – sources

  • Israel is closely monitoring Turkey’s increasing regional influence following the collapse of the Assad regime in Syria and the rise of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham, which Turkey has backed for over a decade. Defense Minister Israel Katz convened a high-level security meeting to assess potential threats from a Sunni Turkey-Syria axis that could collaborate with terrorist groups and heighten tensions with Israel. A report presented to Prime Minister Netanyahu highlighted concerns over Turkey’s involvement in Syria, signaling a shift in regional dynamics that warrants close attention. Stay informed about evolving geopolitical developments and their potential impact on regional security.

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