THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/27/25

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/27/25

by | Jan 27, 2025 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: U.S. Department of Defense (DoD / Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Kyle Baskin | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“Amat Victoria Curam (Victory Loves Preparation)”

 

— Latin Proverb

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

  • US, Japanese troops to practice reconnaissance during Iron Fist amphibious exercise

  • The annual Iron Fist exercise, now in its 19th year, will take place February 19 to March 7, involving approximately 2,700 U.S. Marines and sailors alongside 1,300 Japanese troops. Hosted across multiple locations, including Okinawa and Kyushu, the drills will feature amphibious landings, advanced marksmanship, and fire support operations amid growing regional tensions with China over Taiwan and the Senkaku Islands. The exercise will include U.S. Navy ships such as the USS America and USS San Diego, and four Marine Corps Ospreys. Observers from allied nations, including the UK, Australia, and Germany, are set to attend. Click here to learn more about this critical joint training event.
     

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

  • Chinese AI App DeepSeek Soars in Popularity, Startling Rivals

  • Chinese startup DeepSeek has shaken Silicon Valley with its R1 AI assistant, now the top-downloaded app on Apple’s US App Store. Its rise has sent major tech stocks like Nvidia plummeting, with $460 billion wiped from its market cap in one day. R1’s efficiency, built with fewer specialized chips than competitors like OpenAI’s GPT-4, challenges assumptions about Western AI dominance. However, concerns over censorship and limited functions persist. Could this be the start of a global AI arms race? Click here to dive deeper into this disruptive story.
     

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

  • Mahomes credits God as Chiefs advance to third Super Bowl in a row: ‘None of this is possible’

  • Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes credited God after leading his team to the Super Bowl for the third consecutive year with a 32-29 victory over the Buffalo Bills in the AFC Championship. Mahomes, known for his strong Christian faith, emphasized his gratitude in a CBS Sports interview and on social media, saying, “I want to give all glory to God.” As the Chiefs prepare to face the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LIX on Feb. 9, Mahomes continues to highlight his faith as central to his career and resilience. Click here to read more about Mahomes’ journey and his testimony of faith.

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

  • Hello Kitty theme parks knocked out by hacker attack

  • Sanrio’s Hello Kitty-themed parks, Sanrio Puroland and Harmonyland, are facing disruptions after a suspected ransomware attack compromised their systems. Ticket sales, annual pass issuance, and reservation services were halted, significantly impacting operations. Sanrio Puroland, in particular, is limiting admissions to those with prior reservations through the end of the month. Authorities have been notified, and an investigation is underway to determine the attack’s scope and whether visitor data was leaked. The breach highlights the increasing vulnerability of time-sensitive services to cyberattacks. Click here for more details on the incident and its implications.

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

  • Iran’s Revolutionary Guards commander says Iran purchased Russian-made Sukhoi 35 fighter jets

  • Iran has officially confirmed its purchase of Russian-made Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets, marking a significant step in Tehran and Moscow’s growing military collaboration. While the number of jets and their delivery status remain unclear, this revelation comes amidst heightened concerns over Iran’s expanding military capabilities. Deputy Coordinator Ali Shadmani emphasized the purchase as part of broader efforts to strengthen Iran’s air, land, and naval forces, warning adversaries like Israel of potential retaliation. This development follows the signing of a comprehensive strategic partnership between Iran and Russia, further cementing their military-technical cooperation. Click here for an in-depth look at this pivotal arms deal and its regional implications.
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/24/25

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/24/25

by | Jan 24, 2025 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: U.S. Department of Defense (DoD / Air Force | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“Good fences make good neighbors.”

 

— Robert Frost

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

  • Military police, engineer units from Army, Marines deploy to the US-Mexico border

  • The U.S. is deploying 1,500 active-duty troops, including Marines and Army engineers, to the U.S.-Mexico border, joining 2,500 National Guard members already supporting Customs and Border Protection. Ordered by President Donald Trump, this effort involves installing physical barriers and conducting surveillance. Units from multiple states are involved, with discussions of increasing the deployment to 10,000 troops. Military officials clarified that the troops will not perform law enforcement duties. Additionally, deportation flights to Guatemala began Thursday, carried out by Air Force C-17 crews. Click here for the full details on the deployment and its implications.
     

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

  • Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 review: a new king of 4K is here

  • Nvidia’s new RTX 5090, priced at $1,999 and launching January 30th, is a compact yet powerful GPU featuring 32GB of VRAM and the revolutionary DLSS 4 Multi Frame Generation, promising up to 8x frame rate boosts in supported games. With a slimmer design and impressive cooling, it dominates 4K gaming, offering a 28% performance increase over the RTX 4090 and delivering massive gains in AI workloads. However, its high power draw and premium price may give some pause. As DLSS 4 adoption grows, this GPU could redefine gaming and creative workflows. Click here to dive into the details.
     

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

  • Operation Blessing Buys Tools for Underfunded L.A. Fire Station, Helps with 100 First Responder Kits

  • As wildfires rage across Los Angeles, fueled by strong winds, first responders face grueling conditions while battling flames threatening millions. Amid these challenges, Operation Blessing has stepped up to support firefighters, providing tools, first responder kits, and morale boosts in partnership with organizations like YWAM L.A. With red flag warnings persisting, small rains expected this weekend offer hope but won’t end the fight. Efforts like these remind first responders they’re not alone in their battle. Click here to support first responders and victims of the California wildfires.

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

  • FTC issues warning about dangerous deliveries: free gifts that contain identity theft

  • The FTC has issued a warning about a new twist on brushing scams: malicious QR codes included with unsolicited “gifts.” Scammers send fake luxury items like beauty products or Bluetooth speakers, paired with QR codes that lead to phishing sites to steal personal data or install malware. These scams exploit stolen personal information, risking identity theft. If you’ve interacted with suspicious QR codes, update passwords, enable multi-factor authentication, and monitor financial accounts. Report identity theft at IdentityTheft.gov. Click here to learn how to stay safe from these dangerous scams.

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

  • Israel approves Hamas’s list of hostages set for Saturday release

  • Israel has approved the release of four female IDF observers—Naama Levy, Liri Albag, Daniella Gilboa, and Karina Ariev—as part of a deal with Hamas set to take place on Saturday. The arrangement includes exchanging 33 hostages for Palestinian detainees, humanitarian aid, and IDF withdrawal from some areas in Gaza. The agreement also promises information on the status of additional hostages, including the Bibas family. Protests erupted in Tel Aviv, with demonstrators demanding the release of every hostage, living or deceased. Click here to read more about the ongoing developments.
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/23/25

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/23/25

by | Jan 23, 2025 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: iStock / razihusin | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“Truth is rarely pure and never simple.”

 

— Oscar Wilde

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

  • Royal Navy Nuclear Submarine Surfaced Next To Russian Spy Ship To Send A Clear Message

  • The U.K. has confirmed that a Royal Navy submarine surfaced near the Russian spy ship Yantar in late 2024 to signal that its activities in British waters were under surveillance. The Yantar, officially an “oceanographic research vessel,” is equipped to tap or cut undersea cables, raising NATO concerns over the security of critical underwater infrastructure. The Royal Navy, supported by warships and helicopters, closely monitored the Yantar during its recent passage through British waters. U.K. Defense Secretary John Healey accused Russia of targeting infrastructure vital to European security, emphasizing NATO’s vigilance against such threats amid heightened tensions with Russia. Click here for more on this developing story.
     

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

  • OpenAI’s new Operator AI agent can do things on the web for you

  • OpenAI has unveiled a “research preview” of its new AI agent, Operator, which can perform web-based tasks by navigating browsers, clicking, typing, and interacting like a human user. Exclusively available to ChatGPT Pro users in the US for $200/month, Operator leverages GPT-4o’s vision capabilities and reinforcement learning for advanced reasoning. It can “see” webpages via screenshots and take actions without requiring custom APIs, but it defers to users for sensitive interactions like entering login credentials. Partnering with companies like DoorDash and Uber, OpenAI is aiming to refine Operator for real-world applications, with plans to expand access and integrate it into ChatGPT in the future. Click here to learn more.
     

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

  • Biden, in Letter to Trump, Says He’s Praying for Him: ‘May God Bless You’

  • Former President Joe Biden upheld the tradition of outgoing presidents leaving letters for their successors by writing a heartfelt note to President Donald Trump on the day of his inauguration. Biden’s letter, left in the Oval Office desk, expressed prayers for Trump, reflections on the weight of leadership, and hopes for prosperity and peace for the nation. This unique exchange continues a legacy that began with Ronald Reagan, with presidents offering encouragement, advice, and personal reflections to those stepping into the nation’s highest office. Click here to explore this touching presidential tradition.

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

  • Entire Georgian country population exposed in a massive data leak

  • A massive data leak involving millions of records on Georgian citizens surfaced briefly before disappearing, leaving sensitive personal data—including ID numbers, phone details, and more—vulnerable to exploitation. Discovered by cybersecurity researcher Bob Dyachenko and the Cybernews team, the unprotected Elasticsearch index hosted in Germany exposed nearly five million individual records and over seven million phone entries. Although quickly taken offline, the leak raises serious concerns about potential misuse by cybercriminals and state actors, especially given Georgia’s geopolitical tensions. Experts urge affected individuals to remain vigilant against identity theft and fraud. Click here to read more about the risks and implications of this alarming breach.

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

  • IDF to stay in southern Lebanon after deadline

  • Israel’s security cabinet has decided that the IDF will remain in southern Lebanon beyond the 60-day ceasefire deadline, citing the Lebanese Army’s slow progress in dismantling Hezbollah camps as stipulated in the agreement brokered by U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein. The ceasefire deal required the Lebanese Army to take full control of the region by January 26, 2025, but Israeli officials report minimal action. While the IDF’s extended stay is meant to ensure security and compliance, some Israeli officials hope for U.S. approval to establish a permanent military outpost near the border, a move that could risk bolstering Hezbollah’s political power amid Lebanon’s evolving leadership. Click here for insights into the ongoing ceasefire negotiations and their broader implications.
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/21/25

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/21/25

by | Jan 21, 2025 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: iStock / roibu | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“A government’s first duty is to protect its people.”

 

— Ronald Reagan

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

  • Key takeaways for troops and vets from Trump’s first day in office

  • In his first hours back in office, President Donald Trump unveiled sweeping directives that will redefine U.S. military and immigration policies. His executive orders include deploying troops to the southern border to combat migration and trafficking, reinstating service members discharged for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine with full back pay, and suspending the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program, halting resettlement for thousands of Afghans allied with U.S. forces. Additionally, Trump designated drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations, hinting at potential military action in Mexico, and pledged to eliminate “radical political theories” from military training. These moves, coupled with rescinding over 70 Biden-era executive orders, signal significant policy shifts under Trump’s leadership. Click here to learn more about the implications of these actions.
     

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

  • The first US President who took to texting may surprise you, and other White House tech tales

  • From George Washington’s cipher wheels to Donald Trump’s TikTok, technology has consistently shaped how presidents communicate, govern, and engage with the public. The evolution of tools like the telegraph under Lincoln, FDR’s radio fireside chats, and Obama’s use of social media exemplify this dynamic. Each president’s embrace (or rejection) of technology reflects the changing tides of communication and innovation. Now, as AI enters the scene, Trump’s second term could redefine presidential tech interaction yet again. Click here to explore how technology has reshaped presidential history and its future impact.
     

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

  • Israeli Firefighters Join Efforts in CA Wildfire Response, Strengthening Global Alliances

  • A team of 13 Israeli firefighters has joined forces with over 14,000 firefighters combating the devastating Los Angeles wildfires, marking a significant moment of U.S.-Israel solidarity. The effort, spearheaded by the Israeli consulate, highlights the mutual support between the two nations, with Israeli experts bringing valuable experience from past fire disasters. This collaboration, rooted in a decade-long relationship between California and Israeli firefighting teams, emphasizes the importance of international cooperation in addressing such monumental crises. Click here to learn more about this inspiring partnership and its impact.

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

  • New Russian campaign abuses Microsoft Teams to exfil data

  • Sophos researchers have identified two active cyber campaigns exploiting Microsoft Office 365 to deploy ransomware and steal company data. Linked to Russian cybercriminal groups, these campaigns use spam emails, followed by Teams calls impersonating IT support, to gain remote access through tools like Quick Assist. Over 15 incidents were reported recently, highlighting vulnerabilities in Teams’ default configurations. Sophos advises companies to review settings, block external communications, limit remote access tools, and enhance employee awareness. Click here to learn more about safeguarding your organization from these threats.

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

  • Emily Damari’s mother shares photo revealing hostage’s hand injury

  • Mandy Damari shared the first unbandaged photo of her daughter, Emily Damari, a British-Israeli former hostage, since her release from Gaza. Emily, injured during her kidnapping on October 7, is seen alongside her mother, marking a poignant moment in her recovery. The release, part of a ceasefire hostage deal, is described by family as “just the beginning,” with calls to free the remaining 94 hostages. Emily’s story has inspired global support, with Tottenham fans honoring her during the North London Derby. Click here to read more about Emily’s journey and ongoing efforts to bring others home.
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/17/25

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/17/25

by | Jan 17, 2025 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, Operation Swords of Iron, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) / NASA | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“The stars don’t look bigger, but they do look brighter.”

 

— Sally Ride

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

  • How Trump’s Air Force pick could elevate space priorities

  • President-elect Donald Trump’s pick for Air Force secretary, Troy Meink, brings a strong background in space and technology development, signaling a potential shift in priorities toward the Space Force. Meink’s experience with the National Reconnaissance Office and Air Force space initiatives positions him to influence key decisions on resource allocation and mission integration between air and space operations. While his nomination highlights a strategic emphasis on space, it also raises concerns about budget trade-offs with airpower. Click here to explore how Meink’s leadership could shape the future of the Air Force and Space Force.
     

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

  • Supreme Court upholds law to ban TikTok this Sunday

  • The U.S. Supreme Court has upheld the bipartisan law requiring ByteDance, TikTok’s Chinese parent company, to divest from the app or cease U.S. operations by January 19, citing national security concerns over data collection. The ruling, seen as a First Amendment issue by critics, leaves President-elect Donald Trump as the app’s last hope for survival. Trump has hinted at a potential executive order to extend the divestiture deadline but has yet to make a decision. Meanwhile, TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew’s attendance at Trump’s inauguration adds intrigue to the unfolding drama. Click here for the latest updates on this high-stakes decision.
     

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

  • Franklin Graham to Deliver Invocation at Trump’s Historic Second Inauguration

  • Evangelist Franklin Graham and Cardinal Timothy Dolan will deliver invocations at Donald Trump’s historic second inauguration on Monday, marking his return to the presidency after non-consecutive terms—a first since Grover Cleveland. Graham, calling it an “honor,” and Dolan, citing Trump’s renewed faith, will join a diverse lineup of religious leaders representing multiple faiths. With temperatures expected to hover in the 20s, Trump’s swearing-in promises both solemnity and historic significance. Click here for full details on the event and its notable participants.

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

  • Cybercriminals capitalize on LA wildfire chaos via fake GoFundMe’s and crypto coins

  • In the aftermath of the devastating Los Angeles wildfires, cybercriminals are exploiting the crisis to scam victims and good Samaritans through fake domains, fraudulent GoFundMe campaigns, and crypto schemes. Cybersecurity firm BforeAI identified 119 suspicious domains leveraging wildfire-related keywords to target donations and steal personal information. Fake fundraising campaigns, including those for displaced pets and counterfeit merchandise supposedly benefiting victims, have proliferated. Scammers also launched dubious cryptocurrency schemes promising quick gains, exploiting social media and trending topics to maximize reach. Stay informed to avoid falling prey to these malicious tactics. Click here to learn how to spot and report wildfire-related scams.

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

  • Government approves the hostage deal after seven hours of deliberation

  • The Israeli government has approved a hostage deal after hours of intense debate, with 24 ministers voting in favor and eight against, despite significant opposition from key figures such as National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. Religious and Likud ministers cited biblical principles in their support, emphasizing the value of saving lives. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu assured the cabinet that President-elect Donald Trump fully backs Israel’s plans to resume the war if Hamas violates the agreement and has committed to unfreezing weapons shipments. Click here for the full details of the vote and international response.
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/16/25

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/16/25

by | Jan 16, 2025 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, Operation Swords of Iron, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: iStock / Lefteris_ | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“The strength of the team is each individual member. The strength of each member is the team.”

 

— Phil Jackson

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

  • How California National Guard helicopter crews are fighting the LA wildfires

  • California National Guard pilots like Chief Warrant Officer 5 Joseph Rosamond are at the forefront of battling the devastating wildfires sweeping across Los Angeles. Maneuvering Chinook helicopters through smoke-filled canyons, they conduct water drops to quell flames and safeguard ground crews from advancing fires. These missions, honed through rigorous training and experience, showcase immense skill and dedication. As the current fire season rages with over 40,000 acres already scorched, these pilots find immediate fulfillment in protecting communities and halting destruction. Click here to read more about their heroic efforts and the challenges they face.
     

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

  • Nintendo trailer gives gamers long-awaited look at Switch 2 console

  • Nintendo has officially unveiled the Nintendo Switch 2 in a sleek new trailer, showcasing a slightly larger console with thinner bezels and updated Joy-Con controllers featuring new buttons and ports. Alongside improved design and compatibility with physical and digital Switch 2 games (with some limitations for original Switch titles), Nintendo promises hands-on events in April across North America and globally. Fans can expect more details during the “Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2” event on April 2nd, with the console set to launch later this year. Click here to read more and stay updated!
     

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

  • LAPD Chaplain Reveals Divine Moments Amid Wildfire Destruction: ‘God, if You’re Real, Show Me’

  • As the Los Angeles wildfires wreak havoc, Chaplain Steve Wilburn of the LAPD offers spiritual support to survivors and first responders, reminding them of hope amid devastation. From comforting those experiencing survivor’s guilt to encouraging firefighters overwhelmed by emotional loss, Wilburn’s ministry focuses on meeting both physical and spiritual needs. With organizations like Operation Blessing providing crucial aid, these efforts bring light to those navigating unimaginable loss. Click here to read more about Chaplain Wilburn’s impactful work and the resilience of those affected.

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

  • Trump’s Pentagon should expand innovation hub, tech panel says

  • The Defense Innovation Board, led by Michael Bloomberg, has recommended expanding the Pentagon’s Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) and significantly increasing its budget to better support nontraditional companies entering the defense space. Highlighting DIU’s pivotal role in programs like Replicator and innovation coordination, the board envisions a “concierge service” model to guide companies through prototyping and production. With suggestions including streamlined contracting and ambitious goals to field game-changing technologies by 2027, the report emphasizes the need for agile approaches to counter China’s growing military capabilities. Click here to read more about these transformative recommendations.

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

  • Cabinet pushes back meeting on hostage release deal

  • The proposed hostage release deal in Israel has sparked a wave of political dissent, with far-right figures like National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, and Diaspora Minister Amichai Chikli threatening to resign if the deal is approved. Critics argue the deal undermines Israel’s security by releasing Palestinian militants and making territorial concessions without achieving the war’s goals. Despite their opposition, the deal is expected to pass in the National Security Cabinet and government plenum. Click here to read more about the political ramifications of the hostage deal.

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