THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 2/5/25

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 2/5/25

by | Feb 5, 2025 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) / Air Force Master Sgt. Russell Scalf | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“If you wish for peace, prepare for war.”

 

— Vegetius, De Re Militari

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

  • RC-135 Rivet Joint Surveillance Jet Just Flew Unprecedented Mission Off Mexico

  • A U.S. Air Force RC-135V Rivet Joint surveillance aircraft conducted rare intelligence-gathering flights over the Gulf of California, signaling increased U.S. military focus on cartel activity in Mexico. The aircraft, known for its advanced signals intelligence capabilities, monitored communications and logistics in Sinaloa Cartel-controlled territory amid a broader expansion of U.S. military surveillance along the border under President Donald Trump. This aligns with growing Pentagon efforts, including P-8A Poseidon patrols, to support counter-cartel operations, though no direct military action has been confirmed. However, recent comments from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth suggesting that “all options are on the table” have fueled speculation about potential future strikes. Click here to read more.
     

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

  • See robot dogs fight bombs in military trial

  • The British military has successfully retrofitted Boston Dynamics robot dogs for bomb disposal, demonstrating their ability to detect and neutralize threats while keeping personnel out of harm’s way. The live trials, conducted by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), also tested AI-powered drones and robots capable of opening doors and climbing stairs, reinforcing the UK’s commitment to integrating advanced technology into national security efforts. While the use of military and law enforcement robots remains controversial, particularly regarding autonomous weapons, their deployment is becoming increasingly inevitable, with similar advancements seen in China, the U.S., and Ukraine. Click here to read more.
     

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

  • ‘Experience the Bible’: 3 Innovators Using Games, Comics, and Videos to Reach Next Generation

  • As younger generations become less likely to believe in Christianity but remain open to the Gospel, companies are innovating ways to engage them with Scripture. “The Action Bible,” a comic book-style retelling of biblical stories, has sold over 4 million copies, appealing to Gen Z and Alpha’s preference for visual storytelling. Meanwhile, Bible X’s Gate Zero video game and TruPlay’s faith-based app aim to immerse young audiences in biblical truth through interactive experiences. These efforts reflect a growing movement to meet young people where they are, using technology to foster deeper engagement with faith. Click here to read more.

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

  • Many Americans still don’t understand how easily IoT devices can get bricked

  • A Consumer Reports survey revealed that many Americans are unaware that smart devices require ongoing software support to maintain functionality and security, with 43% of connected device owners unaware their products might lose updates. Many users only realize support has ended when devices stop working, leading to cybersecurity risks and wasted money. The report highlights misconceptions about a device’s usefulness post-support and calls for clearer manufacturer disclosures. Advocacy groups are pressuring the FTC to mandate transparency on software support durations, while the FCC’s new Cyber Trust Mark program aims to address IoT security, though labeling won’t begin until 2026. Click here to read more.

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

  • How Israel almost wiped out Hezbollah, only days after October 7 – exclusive

  • The report details how close Israel came to launching a preemptive strike against Hezbollah following Hamas’s October 7 attack, with IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi advocating for a major operation to prevent a northern front war. While Israeli defense leaders, including then-Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, supported the strike, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hesitated, citing potential U.S. opposition and the risk of massive destruction in Israel. U.S. President Joe Biden strongly discouraged the attack, warning of regional escalation. Despite Israel’s military leadership pushing for action, opposition from Netanyahu, strategic concerns, and input from newly joined war cabinet members Benny Gantz and Gadi Eisenkot led to a decision against the strike. The report suggests that had Israel acted swiftly, it might have avoided prolonged displacement of northern residents and accelerated negotiations with Hamas, but U.S. pressure and internal political calculations ultimately prevented the escalation. Click here to read more.
     
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 2/4/25

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 2/4/25

by | Feb 4, 2025 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: iStock / wael alreweie | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“If you want something new, you have to stop doing something old.”

 

— Peter Drucker

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

  • ‘Level it’: Trump says US will ‘take over’ Gaza strip and rebuild it to stabilize Middle East

  • President Donald Trump announced plans for the U.S. to take control of the Gaza Strip, level its war-torn areas, and rebuild it into a thriving economic hub. Speaking alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, Trump described his vision of U.S. ownership of Gaza as a long-term stabilizing force for the Middle East. Netanyahu praised Trump’s bold approach, calling it a game-changer for the region. Their meeting also covered the ongoing ceasefire, Iran’s influence, and potential resettlement plans for Gaza residents. Click here to read more.
     

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

  • Google Lifts a Ban on Using Its AI for Weapons and Surveillance

  • Google has overhauled its AI principles, removing previous commitments to avoid developing harmful technologies, weapons, or surveillance tools that violate human rights. The update shifts the company’s stance, allowing more flexibility in AI development while emphasizing oversight and national security interests. The changes, quietly disclosed on an old blog post, have sparked concern among employees, who fear Google may now engage in military and surveillance projects it previously avoided. Click here to read more.
     

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

  • Federal anti-Semitism task force to investigate colleges

  • The Department of Justice has launched a new task force to combat anti-Semitism, with a particular focus on harassment of Jewish students on college campuses. The initiative, led by senior DOJ official Leo Terrell, follows an executive order from President Donald Trump and will involve multiple federal agencies. At the same time, the Department of Education announced investigations into Columbia University, UC Berkeley, Northwestern, Portland State, and the University of Minnesota, citing failures to protect Jewish students amid rising campus tensions post-Oct. 7. Click here to read more.

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

  • Australia bans DeepSeek on government devices

  • Australia has joined a growing list of countries banning DeepSeek, the Chinese chatbot that has rapidly gained global popularity. The Department of Home Affairs ordered all government entities to remove and block DeepSeek products from official systems, citing national security risks. The ban follows similar actions in Italy and Taiwan, with several other nations, including the U.S., investigating potential security threats posed by the app’s data storage in China. Click here to read more.

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

  • Trump to ‘Post’: Gazan relocation plan will happen, Egypt and Jordan won’t say no

  • During a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that he believes Jordan and Egypt “won’t tell [him] no” when asked to accept Gazan refugees. Trump emphasized his plan to relocate all Gaza residents, describing the region as a “pure demolition site” and proposing to build a “beautiful” new home for them elsewhere. He expressed confidence that Gazans would choose to leave and that Muslim countries would not refuse his plan. Click here to read more.

     
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 2/3/25

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 2/3/25

by | Feb 3, 2025 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

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

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

“Security against foreign danger is one of the primitive objects of civil society. It is an avowed and essential object of the American Union.”

 

— James Madison

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

  • US carries out multiple airstrikes on ISIS in Somalia

  • U.S. forces have launched airstrikes in northern Somalia, targeting ISIS operatives in the Gholis mountain range, marking the first military operation in Somalia under President Trump’s second term. AFRICOM confirmed multiple ISIS members were killed, though details on specific targets remain undisclosed. The strikes were likely conducted by assets from the USS Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group, currently operating in the region. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud acknowledged the operation, and AFRICOM stated no civilians were harmed. Click here to read more.
     

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

  • Meta spends big to make its Ray-Ban glasses a true mainstream hit

  • Meta is doubling down on its push to make Ray-Ban smart glasses a mainstream hit, unveiling two Super Bowl ads featuring Marvel stars Chris Hemsworth and Chris Pratt—alongside Kris Jenner. The company is also releasing a limited edition Super Bowl-themed version of the glasses, featuring team-colored lenses and a custom-etched case, though they won’t be available for purchase. This move follows Meta’s reported sale of over 1 million Ray-Ban smart glasses in 2024, signaling its commitment to expanding the category through exclusivity and influencer marketing. Click here to read more.
     

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

  • CeCe Winans, DOE among Christian artists to win big at 2025 Grammy Awards

  • Gospel music shined at the 67th Grammy Awards as CeCe Winans, DOE, and other Christian artists took home top honors. Winans won “Best Gospel Album” for More Than This and “Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song” for That’s My King, while DOE claimed “Best Contemporary Christian Music Album” for Heart of a Human. Other big winners included Cory Henry for “Best Roots Gospel Album” and a collective featuring Tasha Cobbs Leonard and Israel Houghton for “Best Gospel Performance/Song.” Winans expressed gratitude, saying, “Winning a Grammy is always an incredible honor, but to be recognized for music that uplifts and inspires makes it even more special.” The event also raised over $7 million for wildfire relief efforts in Los Angeles. Click here to read more.

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

  • Microsoft Defender ditches privacy protection feature, leaving users without VPN

  • Microsoft is discontinuing its built-in VPN feature in Defender on February 28, 2025, leaving millions of users without IP address privacy protection. Initially rolled out on Android and expanded to Windows in late 2024, the feature provided a secure VPN connection for Microsoft 365 subscribers, encrypting traffic and shielding users on unsafe networks. Microsoft says it is shifting focus to “new areas” of security but assures that other Defender features like identity theft protection remain intact. Windows users need no action, but Android users must manually remove the VPN profile. Click here to read more.

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

  • Walking the tightrope: Netanyahu’s goals in Washington DC

  • Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff in Washington to discuss the next phase of the Gaza hostage and ceasefire deal. Talks are shifting towards extending the current agreement, where hostages are released in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, while a ceasefire holds. Netanyahu and Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer will now lead negotiations instead of Israel’s security chiefs, as discussions move toward diplomatic matters, including post-war Gaza and potential normalization with Saudi Arabia. Netanyahu also seeks alignment with President Trump on continuing the war while securing more hostage releases. Click here to read more.
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/31/25

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/31/25

by | Jan 31, 2025 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: iStock / olli0815 | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“The world is not dangerous because of those who do harm but because of those who look at it without doing anything.”

 

— Albert Einstein

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

  • Rubio Says Trump’s Greenland Bid ‘Not a Joke,’ Citing China Risk

  • President Donald Trump’s proposal to buy Greenland is “not a joke,” according to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who warned of potential Chinese military expansion in the Arctic under the guise of commercial projects. Rubio also reiterated concerns about China’s influence in the Panama Canal, aligning with Trump’s calls to retake control of the strategic waterway if transit costs aren’t reduced. Meanwhile, Denmark is rallying European allies against Trump’s Greenland ambitions, while China denies any plans for dual-use facilities in Greenland or control over the canal. Click here to read more about the geopolitical tensions surrounding these key trade routes.
     

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

  • OpenAI’s o3-Mini Is a Leaner AI Model That Keeps Pace With DeepSeek

  • OpenAI has unveiled o3-mini, a smaller yet highly advanced AI model, in response to the growing influence of Chinese AI startup DeepSeek. The free-to-use model, designed for efficient reasoning and problem-solving, will be available to all ChatGPT Plus, Team, and Pro users, with limited access for free-tier users. OpenAI has also been actively recruiting PhD students to refine its models, as competition in the AI space intensifies. With DeepSeek offering powerful AI for free, OpenAI aims to maintain its leading edge in AI development. Click here to read more about this AI showdown.
     

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

  • Why the Church should reject Replacement Theology

  • Replacement Theology is gaining traction within the Church, especially following the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, forcing many to reconsider their stance on Israel’s role in God’s plan. This belief, which claims that the Church has replaced Israel as God’s chosen people, contradicts clear biblical teachings in both the Old and New Testaments. Romans 11:26 states, “all Israel will be saved,” yet many Replacement Theology advocates ignore this. The Bible consistently affirms God’s eternal promises to Israel, including its regathering and ultimate restoration. As Christians, we must trust God’s word over modern interpretations that deny Israel’s biblical significance. Click here to read more.

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

  • Enter hacking simulations: games that provide foundation and culture

  • Looking to sharpen your cybersecurity skills while having fun? These hacking games and simulations provide a hands-on way to learn ethical hacking, terminal commands, and penetration testing. Telehack immerses players in a retro hacking environment, OverTheWire teaches Linux fundamentals, and PicoCTF offers competitive Capture The Flag challenges. If you’re serious about hacking, TryHackMe and HackTheBox provide real-world attack scenarios. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, these platforms help refine your skills—but always remember to hack responsibly! Click here to read more.

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

  • ‘Why does Egypt need all these submarines and tanks?’ Israeli UN envoy warns of military buildup

  • Israeli Ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, has raised concerns about Egypt’s military buildup, questioning why Cairo is investing heavily in advanced weaponry despite no apparent threats. Highlighting Egypt’s annual expenditure on submarines, tanks, and other military assets, Danon urged Israel to closely monitor the situation in light of the October 7 Hamas attack. He also called on the U.S. to explain its continued military support for Egypt. As tensions in the region persist, Danon’s remarks underscore a growing trust gap between Israel and its longtime peace partner. Click here to read more.
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/30/25

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/30/25

by | Jan 30, 2025 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: iStock / gorodenkoff | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.”

 

-Philippians 2:4

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

  • Ex-Military Helicopter Pilots Explain The Challenges Of Flying Over The Capital

  • A tragic midair collision over Washington, D.C., between an Army Black Hawk helicopter and a PSA Airlines passenger jet has claimed 67 lives, raising critical questions about airspace safety in one of the most tightly controlled regions in the U.S. Experts point to possible failures in situational awareness, air traffic control communication, and adherence to designated flight paths. Investigators are now probing how the two aircraft, operating in heavily monitored airspace, ended up on a deadly collision course. Click here to read more about the unfolding investigation.
     

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

  • Apple reports best-ever earnings even as iPhone revenue slips

  • Apple reported a record-breaking quarter with $124.3 billion in revenue, but iPhone sales saw a slight dip, raising questions about whether Apple Intelligence is driving upgrades. CEO Tim Cook defended the AI rollout, pointing to stronger iPhone 16 sales in regions where Apple Intelligence was available. While the new iPhones offer great value, Apple’s cautious AI approach and delayed Siri improvements may impact demand. Meanwhile, revenue for Mac and services grew, but wearables like the Apple Watch and AirPods saw slight declines. Click here to read more about Apple’s financial performance.
     

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

  • 5 Christian Leaders Share Their Thoughts on the American Airlines Plane Crash

  • Christian leaders are urging believers to pray for the families of the 67 victims killed in the tragic mid-air collision between an American Airlines jet and a Black Hawk helicopter in Washington, D.C. While grief and questions abound, pastors like Greg Laurie and Albert Mohler emphasize faith, prayer, and the fleeting nature of life. Others caution against speculation and political blame, encouraging unity and compassion during this difficult time. Click here to read more about how faith leaders are responding to this tragedy.

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

  • Browser syncjacking: new research details worrying hacking technique

  • Cybersecurity researchers at SquareX have discovered a major new hacking technique that allows attackers to hijack a user’s browser and eventually take control of their entire device. Using a method called browser extension syncjacking, hackers exploit basic permissions and social engineering tactics to gain full access to a victim’s profile, credentials, and even company files stored on Google Drive or OneDrive. This stealthy attack has no obvious signs and bypasses security measures by leveraging Chrome’s native messaging protocol. With organizations often lacking visibility into browser extension activity, millions of users are at risk. Click here to read more about how this attack works and how to protect yourself.

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

  • ‘We didn’t eat bread on Passover, tried to fast on Yom Kippur’: How ex-hostages clung to faith

  • After 482 days in Hamas captivity, Israeli hostages Arbel Yehud, Gadi Moses, and Agam Berger have finally returned home, revealing how they clung to their faith despite brutal conditions. The IDF observers from Nahal Oz refused to eat leavened bread on Passover and attempted to fast on Yom Kippur, enduring severe malnutrition and isolation. Gadi Moses, 80, remained hopeful, saying, “I never broke, I never cried”, while Yehud spent months underground in total isolation. Their resilience is a testament to their strength and faith. Click here to read more about their harrowing ordeal and emotional return.
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/28/25

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/28/25

by | Jan 28, 2025 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

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

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

“But I took the Canal Zone, and let Congress debate, and while the debate goes on, the Canal does also!”

 

-Theodore Roosevelt

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

  • Showdown at the Panama Canal: Critical Global Waterway Now a Focal Point in US vs. China

  • President Trump has reignited debate over the Panama Canal, accusing Panama of breaking its treaty obligations and overcharging U.S. ships while allowing China’s growing influence through investments and projects along the canal. In his inaugural address, Trump declared intentions to “take back” the canal, sparking anger from Panama, whose leaders maintain that the canal is neutral and under their rightful control. As Chinese investments in Panama expand under its Belt and Road Initiative, questions about sovereignty and international influence loom large. Click here to explore the full story and its global implications.
     

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

  • DeepSeek: meteoric rise or deja vu?

  • DeepSeek’s rapid rise to the top of the app charts has ignited discussions about the future of AI and its geopolitical, ethical, and security implications. As a state-backed Chinese initiative with unprecedented resources, including 50,000 cutting-edge GPUs, DeepSeek challenges U.S. dominance in AI while raising concerns about open-source vulnerabilities like privacy breaches, disinformation, and misuse by bad actors. While democratizing AI access, DeepSeek also exemplifies the risks of unchecked innovation, potentially reshaping the tech landscape and triggering a global AI arms race. Click here to explore the full story and its implications.
     

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

  • Country Music Star Walker Hayes’ Path to Christ through Heartache and Healing

  • Country music star Walker Hayes shares a heartfelt testimony of transformation and faith, revealing how he found Jesus Christ after years of heartache, loss, and battling alcoholism. Hayes recounts how his journey led him from atheism to salvation, with the unwavering support of his pastor and family. Through tragedy and healing, Walker’s story is a powerful reminder of God’s grace and redemption. Click here to watch his emotional testimony.

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

  • TikTok is still on shaky ground in the US

  • The future of TikTok in the US remains uncertain, even after President Donald Trump’s executive order temporarily halted enforcement of a ban on the app. While TikTok remains online, the 75-day reprieve depends on a solution to divest its Chinese ownership, with Trump proposing a controversial plan for partial US government ownership. Lawmakers are divided—some criticize Trump for ignoring legal precedent, while others urge a legally sound path to protect user data. With Congress at odds and the clock ticking, TikTok’s survival hangs in the balance. Click here to read more.

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

  • Saudi-Israel talks nearing breakthrough, says new Israeli ambassador to US

  • Israel’s new ambassador to the US, Yechiel Leiter, stated that Israel is “closer than ever” to normalizing relations with Saudi Arabia, a development he called a “game changer” for the region. Leiter attributed this progress to the weakening of Hamas and Iranian proxies, coupled with shifting Middle Eastern dynamics underpinned by the Abraham Accords. He emphasized the role of pragmatic negotiations to address Palestinian concerns and highlighted the importance of US leadership, praising President Trump’s decisive foreign policy. Click here to read more.

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