THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 12/13/24

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 12/13/24

by | Dec 13, 2024 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, Operation Swords of Iron, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) / Air Force Tech. Sgt. Sarah McClanahan, National Guard | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“The only man who makes no mistakes is the man who never does anything. Do not be afraid to make mistakes providing you do not make the same one twice.”

 

-Theodore Roosevelt

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

  • In Iraq and Afghanistan ‘our future was always written,’ but the next war is uncertain, says 101st commander

  • The U.S. Army is shifting from a counter-terrorism focus to preparing for large-scale combat operations, embracing uncertainty in future battlefields. Maj. Gen. Brett Sylvia, commander of the 101st Airborne Division, highlighted this transition, emphasizing modernization through initiatives like Transform in Contact. This effort, spearheaded by Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George, integrates emerging technologies—such as drones, jamming devices, and electronic warfare—into training to mirror tactics seen in conflicts like Ukraine. Infantry brigade combat teams are being downsized from 4,300 to 3,000 soldiers, prioritizing lighter formations and autonomous systems while reducing reliance on personal electronics to maintain operational security. Sylvia called this modernization the Army’s most promising transformation in decades, as units adapt to rapid technological changes and evolving combat realities. Learn how the Army is redefining readiness for future conflicts.
     

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

  • TikTok ban: Apple, Google warned to get app stores “ready” for Jan. 19 deadline

  • U.S. lawmakers have issued warnings to Apple CEO Tim Cook and Google CEO Sundar Pichai to prepare for a January 19, 2025, deadline banning TikTok if its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, does not divest its ownership. The warning stems from the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, signed into law in April, which mandates that app stores stop distributing and updating TikTok in the U.S. without compliance. ByteDance has challenged the law, but the U.S. Court of Appeals upheld the ban, citing national security concerns over Chinese surveillance. President Biden could grant a 90-day extension, but President-elect Donald Trump, who previously supported the ban, has vowed to oppose it upon taking office. Learn more about the escalating battle over TikTok’s future in the U.S.
     

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

  • Jamie Foxx Credits God and Prayer for Miraculous Recovery after Stroke

  • Actor Jamie Foxx credits God, prayer, and family for his miraculous recovery from a brain bleed and stroke suffered in April 2023. Collapsing on a film set, Foxx was rushed to Piedmont Hospital, where immediate surgery saved his life. His sister, Deidra Dixon, maintained steadfast faith, while his youngest daughter, Anelise, played guitar at his bedside, which he described as a “spiritual defibrillator” that stabilized his vitals. After months of rehab, Foxx expressed deep gratitude for the support and encouragement received during his recovery journey. Learn how faith and love carried Foxx through this life-altering experience.

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

  • Vulnerabilities found in crypto platforms Dogecoin, Lightning Network, and Proton Wallet

  • Recent vulnerabilities in Dogecoin, Bitcoin’s Lightning Network (LN), and Proton Wallet highlight critical security risks in cryptocurrency networks. A Dogecoin vulnerability, exploited by developer Andreas Kohl, briefly shut down 69% of the network using a basic laptop, though responsibly handled to avoid malicious damage. For Bitcoin’s LN, technical writer David A. Harding disclosed that old implementations could allow miners to steal up to 98% of a channel’s funds, though newer updates mitigate this risk. Additionally, Zellic researchers discovered a critical flaw in the preview version of Proton Wallet that could have exposed private keys, resolved within a day. These incidents underscore the need for robust vigilance and timely updates in the crypto ecosystem. Stay informed about the evolving risks in digital asset security.
     

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

  • IDF troops reach Damascus’ doorstep, uncover Syrian military weakness

  • IDF troops have advanced into Syria, reaching Tel Hadar, 10 kilometers from the Israeli border and 20 kilometers from Damascus, marking the deepest incursion since 1973. The deployment aims to secure Israel’s northern border following the collapse of the Assad regime. IDF forces discovered poorly maintained Syrian defenses and abandoned weaponry, including defunct tanks and night-vision equipment. Despite the challenging terrain and cold conditions, soldiers continue fortifying positions to protect the Golan Heights. Encounters with local civilians have been non-hostile, and the mission highlights the IDF’s strategic adaptability in response to regional instability. Stay informed on this historic military maneuver and its implications for regional security.
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 12/12/24

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 12/12/24

by | Dec 12, 2024 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, Operation Swords of Iron, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: iStock / MikeMareen | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“Air power alone does not guarantee America’s security, but I believe it best exploits the nation’s greatest asset – our technical skill.”

 

-Hoyt Vandenberg

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

  • US Senator Says Mysterious Drones Spotted in New Jersey Region Should Be ‘Shot Down, if Necessary’

  • Mysterious drones have been spotted over sensitive areas in New Jersey and the Mid-Atlantic, including near the Picatinny Arsenal and President-elect Donald Trump’s golf course, sparking calls for action from lawmakers. Senator Richard Blumenthal urged the Biden administration to investigate urgently and suggested shooting them down if necessary, citing public safety concerns. The drones, some reportedly six feet in diameter, have also been seen near Coast Guard operations and other restricted areas. While the FBI and Homeland Security investigate, the drones’ origins remain unclear, fueling frustration over transparency and fears of potential threats. Stay informed as authorities work to uncover the purpose and operators behind these mysterious aerial activities.
     

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

  • Harvard Is Releasing a Massive Free AI Training Dataset Funded by OpenAI and Microsoft

  • Harvard University has unveiled a public-domain dataset of nearly 1 million books to support AI model training and research, backed by Microsoft and OpenAI. The dataset, sourced from Google Books, includes works by authors like Shakespeare and Dickens alongside diverse global content, aiming to provide equitable access to high-quality training materials. Positioned as a resource to rival proprietary datasets, the initiative complements other public-domain projects such as France’s Common Corpus. While heralded as a step toward ethical AI development, critics argue these datasets must replace, not supplement, copyrighted material to ensure their positive impact. Learn how Harvard’s initiative reshapes the conversation on open AI training resources.
     

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

  • Arab Bishop tells Islamic rebels that Christians can’t be ‘second-class citizens’ in Syria

  • Following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, Christian leaders in Syria met with Islamic-led rebel groups in Aleppo to discuss the future of religious freedom amid rising concerns of persecution. During the meeting at a Franciscan church, rebels, led by the jihadist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), assured Christian leaders they would respect their traditions and refrain from imposing strict Islamic regulations on Christian communities. However, watchdog groups remain wary, citing incidents of stolen humanitarian aid and fears of ongoing persecution. Aleppo, once a hub for Christianity in Syria, has seen a drastic decline in its Christian population, now reduced to 300,000 from 1.5 million due to years of conflict and radical violence. Advocacy groups warn that the coming weeks will be critical for the survival of Syria’s Christian community. Stay informed about the challenges facing Christians in Syria as the nation grapples with instability.

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

  • First responders are embracing AI amid cybersecurity concerns

  • A national survey reveals nearly 90% of U.S. law enforcement professionals support adopting AI for greater efficiency, with many seeing it as a transformative tool to reduce crime and improve public safety. Conducted by Mark43, the survey highlights increasing demand for cloud-native, data-driven systems to integrate AI capabilities effectively. However, concerns remain, with 84% of respondents reporting cybersecurity incidents in the past year and significant downtime affecting outdated systems. A majority believe adopting federal security standards like FedRAMP could boost public confidence. As agencies face growing challenges, AI and modernized cloud solutions are seen as critical to improving resilience and operational outcomes in 2025. Stay informed about how AI is reshaping public safety.
     

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

  • Missing American Travis Timmerman found in Syrian prison, released

  • Travis Timmerman, a 29-year-old American from Missouri, was freed from a notorious Syrian prison following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Detained seven months ago for entering Syria on a Christian pilgrimage without permission, Timmerman was released on Monday when rebel fighters liberated the prison. He described his detention conditions as tolerable but restrictive, noting limited bathroom access. Thousands of prisoners were freed from Syrian prisons following the regime’s fall, highlighting longstanding reports of torture and human rights abuses. Timmerman, initially unaware of the regime’s collapse, is now safe and making his way toward Jordan. Stay updated on his journey and the aftermath of Syria’s upheaval.
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 12/11/24

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 12/11/24

by | Dec 11, 2024 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, Operation Swords of Iron, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

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

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

“The exploration of space will go ahead, whether we join in it or not, and it is one of the great adventures of all time, and no nation which expects to be the leader of other nations can expect to stay behind in the race for space.”

 

-John F. Kennedy

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

  • Trump’s NASA pick says military will inevitably put troops in space

  • Jared Isaacman, President-elect Donald Trump’s pick for NASA administrator, envisions a future where Space Force guardians will be stationed in space to protect U.S. economic and exploration interests. Speaking at the Spacepower Conference, Isaacman highlighted the growing need for a military presence in space as commercial and civil activities like mining and discovery missions expand. A tech billionaire and experienced commercial astronaut, Isaacman has a history of aviation and space innovation, including leading the first all-civilian spaceflight and a recent commercial spacewalk. He suggested this military presence might align with NASA’s moon and Mars missions, asserting that America will lead humanity’s trajectory in space exploration. Stay tuned for developments on U.S. leadership in space!
     

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

  • Google Reveals Gemini 2, AI Agents, and a Prototype Personal Assistant

  • Google has unveiled Gemini 2, an advanced AI model designed to function as a powerful personal assistant, capable of executing complex tasks on computers and in the physical world. Gemini 2 features enhanced abilities to understand audio, video, and user commands while also performing actions such as coding, data analysis, and web navigation through experimental tools like Project Mariner. With Astra, a prototype capability, Gemini 2 can interpret its surroundings through a smartphone camera, offering recommendations and insights on objects and locations in real-time. Google emphasizes privacy and security as it explores the potential of AI-driven assistants to revolutionize daily life, despite challenges like errors and ethical considerations. Learn more about how Gemini 2 reimagines the role of AI in personal computing.
     

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

  • Demonic statue outside NH State House destroyed within 48 hours: ‘Santa wouldn’t do this’

  • A Baphomet statue, erected by the Satanic Temple near a Nativity scene at the New Hampshire State House, was destroyed just two days after its controversial unveiling. The demonic display, adorned with satanic imagery and symbols, drew criticism from Christians and public officials alike. State Rep. Ellen Read, who invited the statue, accused religious groups of intolerance, though many saw the display as an affront to faith and the celebration of Christ’s birth. Concord’s mayor opposed the statue, describing it as part of an anti-religious agenda. The incident highlights the spiritual battle over public expressions of faith and the enduring need to uphold Christ-centered values in the face of growing challenges. Stay informed as this issue unfolds.

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

  • No Doughnuts Today? Cyberattack Puts Krispy Kreme in a Sticky Situation

  • Krispy Kreme has confirmed a cyberattack that disrupted operations, including its online ordering system, highlighting the growing threat of ransomware in the business world. The company, which operates in 30 countries, disclosed the incident in an SEC filing, dating it to November 29, 2024. With federal law enforcement and cybersecurity experts involved, Krispy Kreme is working to investigate and mitigate the attack while restoring services. The incident, likely a data-extortion ransomware attack, poses a material impact on operations until recovery is complete, though cybersecurity insurance is expected to offset some costs. Stay updated on this developing cybersecurity challenge.
     

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

  • ‘Post’ visits Syria in first Israeli media visit since 1974

  • Israel has clarified that its military activities in Syria are limited to securing a buffer zone near its border to prevent terrorism and maintain stability. IDF Chief Spokesman Daniel Hagari denied rumors of an advance toward Damascus, emphasizing that the operation aims to ensure border safety amid instability following the fall of the Assad regime. While Iranian forces in Syria have significantly reduced, IDF forces are fortifying defenses with trenches and controlled buffer zones, leaving withdrawal plans open-ended until the situation stabilizes. Stay updated on the developments in the region.
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 12/10/24

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 12/10/24

by | Dec 10, 2024 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, Operation Swords of Iron, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

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

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

“Seize the day, and put the least possible trust in tomorrow.”

 

-Horace

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

  • Syria’s Suddenly Permissive Airspace Prompts Flurry Of Foreign Airstrikes (Updated)

  • The United States and Israel are taking decisive actions to address the power vacuum left by the collapse of Syria’s Assad regime. Israel has launched targeted strikes on Assad’s remaining military assets and advanced weapons facilities to prevent their misuse by emerging factions, while establishing a buffer zone in the Golan Heights. Simultaneously, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has executed precision airstrikes against ISIS camps in central Syria, targeting over 75 locations with significant military assets. Amidst ongoing efforts to manage Assad’s chemical weapons stockpile, the U.S. has ruled out deploying ground troops and emphasizes collaboration with international organizations. With the rebels’ governance approach still uncertain, the U.S. and Israel aim to stabilize the region while preparing for potential challenges. Stay informed for updates on this complex situation.
     

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

  • The iPhone accessories that let me ditch my laptop while traveling

  • Traveling without a laptop has become more convenient with a carefully curated mobile workstation setup. Key accessories include the Anker 622 Magnetic Battery, doubling as a power bank and stand, and the Keychron K3 mechanical keyboard for efficient typing. The Logitech MX Anywhere 3 mouse enhances navigation, while long cables like the Mophie 9.8-ft USB-C cable ensure charging flexibility. For organization, the Bellroy Tech Kit stores essentials, complemented by an Apple USB-C Digital AV Adapter for screen mirroring. These tools enable productivity and ease on the go. Explore how to transform your smartphone into a portable desktop solution!
     

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

  • Notre-Dame reopens to the world

  • Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris has reopened in a stunning ceremony after a five-year restoration following the 2019 fire. World leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, Prince of Wales, US President-elect Donald Trump, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, attended the event led by Archbishop Laurent Ulrich. The cathedral’s restoration, completed at a cost of €700 million, includes a new roof, spire, lighting, and altar. The reopening week features special events, including the return of the Crown of Thorns relic. A celebratory concert featuring Pharrell Williams added to the grandeur of this historic moment. Visit Notre-Dame as it reopens to the public on December 16.

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

  • Cloudflare: 6.5% of global traffic, 4.3% of emails potentially malicious

  • Cloudflare’s 2024 review highlights a growing cybersecurity challenge, with 6.5% of global internet traffic flagged as malicious and 4.3% of emails identified as threats. Albania topped the charts for mitigated malicious traffic, while gambling and finance were the most attacked industries. Log4j remains a critical vulnerability, with attack spikes observed throughout the year. Email threats included deceptive links, identity deception, and credential theft, with certain top-level domains like .ws and .bar being overwhelmingly spam or malicious. Notably, post-quantum encryption adoption surged to 13%, driven by browser support like Chrome 124’s April update. As threats evolve, encryption and mitigation efforts are expected to grow in 2025. Stay informed to protect your digital footprint.
     

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

  • Hezbollah weakened: ripple effects reshape Middle East geopolitics – opinion

  • The weakening of Hezbollah due to Israel’s military actions has created ripple effects across the Middle East, amplifying instability and reshaping power dynamics. With opposition groups like HTS advancing toward Damascus and Turkey intensifying military operations against Kurdish territories, Kurdish-held regions face mounting threats. These shifts also alter the geopolitical landscape, as Turkey’s actions bolster Sunni extremist factions, potentially creating new challenges for Israel and Western interests. The U.S. and its allies must reassess their regional strategies to counter this instability and leverage the Kurds as a key partner in maintaining security and stability. Stay informed for further developments in this volatile region.

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 12/9/24

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 12/9/24

by | Dec 9, 2024 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, Operation Swords of Iron, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: iStock / PeterHermesFurian | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“Woe to those who decree unrighteous decrees,
Who write misfortune,
Which they have prescribed
To rob the needy of justice,
And to take what is right from the poor of My people,
That widows may be their prey,
And that they may rob the fatherless.”

 

-Isaiah 10:1-2

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

  • Fall of Syrian Regime Rocks Mideast as Israel’s Military Success Takes Toll on Russia, Iran, Hezbollah

  • The fall of the Assad regime in Syria marks the end of over five decades of brutal dictatorship, with streets filled with jubilation and international reactions highlighting both opportunities and risks. While the rebel coalition, led by groups like Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), pledges to protect Syria’s minorities, concerns persist about the potential rise of another extremist state. Israel has played a strategic role in weakening Iranian and Hezbollah forces, while expressing hopes for peaceful relations with the new Syrian leadership. Meanwhile, global powers remain vigilant, wary of potential instability and renewed threats from groups like ISIS. Stay informed about developments and their global implications.
     

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

  • OpenAI has finally released Sora

  • OpenAI has officially launched Sora, its text-to-video AI model, offering features like generating videos from text, animating images, and remixing videos. Available now for ChatGPT Plus and Pro subscribers, Sora allows users to create videos with varying resolutions and durations depending on the subscription plan, with Pro offering up to 1080p and watermark-free downloads. Key features include “storyboards” for sequence-based video creation, photo-to-video conversion, and blending scenes with AI. Videos include watermarks and metadata to identify AI generation, and strict moderation aims to prevent misuse. Sora is accessible globally except in parts of Europe and the UK. Explore Sora’s capabilities and join the next wave of AI creativity today!
     

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

  • The theology of Christmas: The Incarnation

  • Albert Einstein’s acknowledgment of a divine order contrasts with his rejection of the personal God of the Bible, setting the stage for the profound truth of John 1:14, which declares that “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” This verse captures the miracle of the incarnation: God becoming man through Jesus Christ, who revealed divine glory, brought grace and truth, and provided redemption for humanity. The imagery of Jesus as the ultimate tabernacle underscores His role in granting direct access to God, surpassing the veiled presence in the Old Testament. As we celebrate Christmas, let us reflect on the humility and majesty of Christ’s incarnation and anticipate the eternal dwelling of God with His people, as promised in Revelation 21:3. Rejoice in the true theology of Christmas: Immanuel, God with us, who came to redeem and restore.

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

  • Team Trump wants to talk online drug sales with big tech

  • Representatives from Google, Microsoft, Meta, Snap, and TikTok have been invited to meet with President-elect Donald Trump’s team in December to discuss combating online drug sales, particularly related to fentanyl. The transition officials seek input from tech firms on their priorities and obstacles in addressing this crisis. Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, has fueled a devastating overdose epidemic, with over 73,000 deaths recorded in 2023. Trump has pledged to hold Mexico and China accountable for their roles in the fentanyl trade while planning a public awareness campaign. With challenges posed by Section 230 protecting tech platforms from third-party liability, the meeting could shape future strategies. Stay informed as this critical issue develops.
     

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

  • StandWithUs UK opens Oct 7 education center

  • StandWithUs UK has opened the October 7 Education Center in London to combat rising global antisemitism and misinformation following the Hamas attacks on Israel. The center aims to preserve the memory of the events, counter denial and false narratives, and equip students with educational resources to advocate effectively. Through workshops, survivor stories, and campus initiatives, the center seeks to promote awareness, empathy, and action, reaching nearly 90% of campuses and engaging millions on social media. Learn more about their impactful work to ensure the truth of October 7 is represented with integrity.
     
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 12/4/24

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 12/4/24

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

Image Credit: Pexels / Rahul Shah | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“Digital freedom stops where that of users begins… Nowadays, digital evolution must no longer be offered to a customer in trade-off between privacy and security. Privacy is not for sale, it’s a valuable asset to protect.”

 

― Stephane Nappo

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

  • FBI and CISA say to use encrypted messengers as Chinese hackers attack networks

  • The FBI and CISA warn that the Chinese cyber threat actor Salt Typhoon is likely still active in U.S. telecommunications networks, emphasizing the need for encrypted communications. Salt Typhoon has allegedly intercepted sensitive data, including calls and records, in a widespread cyberespionage campaign. Officials recommend apps like Signal or WhatsApp for encryption and stress using devices with timely updates and robust security features. A joint advisory urges critical sectors to enhance defenses with best practices such as end-to-end encryption, secure password storage, and timely patching. Stay vigilant and adopt secure communication methods to protect against ongoing threats.
     

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

  • Meta says it ‘overdid it a bit’ when it comes to COVID-19 moderation

  • Meta’s Global Affairs President Nick Clegg admitted that the company may have been overly strict in moderating Facebook and Instagram posts during the COVID-19 pandemic, citing errors in automated systems that often flagged harmless content. Reflecting on the stringent rules enforced at the time, Clegg acknowledged that moderation “overdid it a bit” but attributed this to uncertainty during the pandemic’s unfolding. While committed to promoting free expression, Meta aims to address user complaints about unfair penalties and over-enforcement. Stay informed on how major platforms adapt their moderation policies for balance and fairness.
     

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

  • Gold Star Families Find Healing Through Literal Leap of Faith: ‘God’s Not Done with Us’

  • Gold Star families are finding hope and healing through “Leap of Faith,” a unique skydiving event hosted by OSOT-America and the All-Veteran Group. Participants take a 14,000-foot leap to honor their loved ones and confront their grief, with many describing it as a transformative experience. The program also includes seminars, counseling, and equine therapy, offering emotional support and connection. “Leap of Faith” inspires participants to let go of fear and find renewed purpose, proving that even through profound loss, healing and hope are possible. Explore how you can support programs like this to uplift grieving families.

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

  • Senators Warn the Pentagon: Get a Handle on China’s Telecom Hacking

  • Concerns over long-standing vulnerabilities in U.S. telecom infrastructure have escalated following the Salt Typhoon espionage campaign targeting major carriers like T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon, which provide critical services to the Department of Defense (DOD). While T-Mobile reports no breach and credits its recent cybersecurity overhaul, including mandatory two-factor authentication with YubiKeys, senators are urging the DOD to reconsider contracts with carriers that fail to adopt robust cyber defenses. This highlights an urgent need to address systemic telecom weaknesses to protect sensitive military and governmental operations. Stay informed on developments in telecom security and national defense.
     

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

  • Trump picks Jewish space adventurer Jared Isaacman to head NASA

  • President-elect Donald Trump has nominated billionaire Jared Isaacman, a Jewish entrepreneur and space adventurer, to lead NASA. Known for his private space missions, including the first private spacewalk in partnership with SpaceX, Isaacman has pledged to prioritize American space exploration, aiming for missions to the Moon and Mars. While his Jewish heritage isn’t a central part of his public persona, Isaacman has supported Jewish causes, including Chabad initiatives. If confirmed, Isaacman will build on a legacy that includes Daniel S. Goldin, NASA’s first Jewish director. Stay tuned for updates on this historic nomination.
     

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