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

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

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

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

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

 

-Joel 3:9 (KJV)

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

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

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

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

     
     

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

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

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

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

     

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

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

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

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

     

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Image Credit: Pexels / Pixabay | Imagery Disclaimer

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

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

 

-Nahum 1:7

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

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

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

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

     
     

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

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

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

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

     

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

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

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

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

     

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

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

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

    For more details, click here to read more.

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

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

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

    For more details, click here to read more.

     
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 09/27/24

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 09/27/24

by | Sep 27, 2024 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, Operation Northern Arrows, Operation Swords of Iron, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: Pexels / Boris Ulzibat | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“Surprise is the master-key of war”

 

-B.H. Liddell Hart

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

  • Israel Executes Massive Bunker Buster Strike On Hezbollah Command Headquarters In Beirut (Updated)

  • Israel conducted a major airstrike on Hezbollah’s main military headquarters in Beirut, targeting leader Hassan Nasrallah. This afternoon’s raids were the largest in Beirut since the conflict began nearly a year ago. Several explosions were heard across the city, with plumes of smoke visible as far as Batroun. Reports vary, but between four and six buildings in Beirut’s southern suburbs were destroyed. Rescue operations are underway, though casualty figures have yet to be confirmed. Israeli media outlets suggest the strike specifically aimed at Nasrallah, though his current status remains unknown.

    For more details, click here to read more.

     

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

  • The Internet Archive’s Fight to Save Itself

  • The Internet Archive, led by founder Brewster Kahle, has been pivotal in preserving the web’s history, boasting projects like the Wayback Machine. Its headquarters, a former church in San Francisco, holds a vast collection of digital artifacts. However, the Archive faces existential legal challenges, including lawsuits from publishers and record labels over copyright infringement. Despite losing recent appeals, Kahle remains committed to the Archive’s mission, even as the combined weight of these lawsuits threatens its future.

    For more details, click here to read more.

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

  • Bear Grylls bridges survival, faith in new series ‘The Chosen in the Wild’: ‘I need Him every day’

  • Bear Grylls, renowned survivalist and TV host, shares how his faith is deeply integrated into every aspect of his life, describing it as a “daily necessity” rather than just a Sunday practice. Speaking at the fan event ChosenCon, Grylls reflected on his personal journey with faith, emphasizing the need for authenticity and stripping away the “fluff” often found in modern church culture. His latest project, “The Chosen in the Wild,” pairs survival challenges with reflections on the faith that sustained Jesus’ disciples, showing the raw, human side of spiritual endurance.

    For more details, click here to read more.

     

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

  • Use at your own risk: how top education apps can spy on you

  • A recent investigation by Cybernews reveals that many popular educational apps, including Coursera, Duolingo, and Moodle, request sensitive permissions, potentially putting users’ privacy at risk. These permissions allow access to sensitive data, such as location, camera, contacts, and storage. Some apps even have access to users’ accounts, phone numbers, and device information. While such permissions may be essential for certain features, they can open the door to misuse if compromised. Users are advised to carefully review app permissions and revoke unnecessary access to protect their privacy.

    For more details, click here to read more.

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

  • ‘Hard to imagine Nasrallah survived attack,’ Israeli official says

  • Israeli officials speculate that Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah may have been killed in an Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) strike targeting Hezbollah’s headquarters in Beirut. The strike was authorized by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu before his address to the United Nations General Assembly. This escalation comes amid an ongoing year-long conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, with increasing attacks on the Iranian-backed group.

    For more details, click here to read more.

     
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 09/26/24

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 09/26/24

by | Sep 26, 2024 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, Operation Northern Arrows, Operation Swords of Iron, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: iStock / Sergey Strelkov | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“And I looked, and arose and said to the nobles, to the leaders, and to the rest of the people, “Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, great and awesome, and fight for your brethren, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your houses.”

 

-Nehemiah 4:14

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

  • Israel Denies Ceasefire Call from US, France as IDF Preps for Ground War in Lebanon

  • Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected a ceasefire proposal backed by the U.S. and other nations that called for a 21-day halt to hostilities with Hezbollah and in Gaza. The ceasefire was suggested to prevent the war from expanding further, but Netanyahu affirmed that Israel will continue its military operations. Israel’s focus remains on neutralizing Hezbollah’s threat, with over 9,000 rockets and drones fired at Israel since October. Netanyahu emphasized that the conflict will persist until the objectives are fully met, while the IDF prepares for potential ground maneuvers.
     

    For more details, click here to read more.

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

  • California’s new law forces digital stores to admit you’re just licensing content, not buying it

  • California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a new law (AB 2426) requiring digital storefronts to clearly inform customers that they are purchasing a license to use digital media, rather than owning it outright. The law, effective next year, prohibits the use of terms like “buy” or “purchase” unless stores disclose the limitations of the license, including the possibility of revocation. This move aims to protect consumers as digital media becomes more prevalent, sparked by incidents where companies like Ubisoft and Sony removed content users believed they owned.

    For more details, click here to read more.

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

  • On the Jewish New Year and the siren sound of silence

  • Jewish academic Irene Lancaster reflects on the significance of Rosh Hashana, focusing on the themes of sovereignty, remembrance, and the shofar’s role in the service. She draws parallels between the shofar’s teruah sound and Israel’s sirens that alert citizens to danger, noting the profound connection between the Rosh Hashana rituals and the Jewish people’s resilience in the face of adversity. Lancaster emphasizes that, despite the trials of the past year, including recent attacks on northern Israel, the Jewish faith in God’s protection and love remains unwavering as they enter the New Year of 5785.

    For more details, click here to read more.

     

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

  • Wi-Fi at major UK train stations hacked to display terror messages

  • A cyberattack disrupted public Wi-Fi at 19 major UK train stations, including London King’s Cross and Manchester Piccadilly, with passengers receiving terror-related messages. Network Rail, which manages the stations, suspended Wi-Fi services while the British Transport Police investigated. The attack also impacted other stations in cities like Birmingham, Glasgow, and Edinburgh. Telent, the telecommunications company providing the Wi-Fi, is investigating the incident. The attack follows a spate of recent cyber incidents targeting UK public services, sparking concerns about national security.

    For more details, click here to read more.

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

  • Israel Air Force chief: We’re preparing to assist troops in ground ops. against Hezbollah

  • Israel Air Force (IAF) chief Maj. Gen. Tomer Bar announced that the IAF is prepared to support ground operations in Lebanon, focusing on preventing arms transfers from Iran to Hezbollah. Bar emphasized that Hezbollah’s functionality depends on Iranian resources, which Israel aims to degrade. The IAF plans to provide aerial support to ground troops, similar to previous operations in Gaza. Bar highlighted that the IAF is ready to target Hezbollah’s assets in southern Lebanon, Beirut, and beyond, applying pressure with no geographical limitations.

    For more details, click here to read more.

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 09/25/24

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 09/25/24

by | Sep 25, 2024 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, Operation Swords of Iron, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: iStock / CoreDesignKEY| Imagery Disclaimer

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

“The rules of navigation never navigated a ship. The rules of architecture never built a house.”

 

-Thomas Reid

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

  • Space Force picks four firms to design ‘Resilient GPS’ satellites

  • The U.S. Space Force has selected four companies—L3Harris, Astranis, Axient, and Sierra Space—to develop Resilient GPS satellites aimed at protecting military and civilian GPS signals from jamming. The first batch of satellites is set to launch by 2028. Congress has raised concerns about the program’s focus on satellites over ground systems and equipment. Click here to read more.

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

  • Meta Missed Out on Smartphones. Can Smart Glasses Make Up for It?

  • Meta is pushing into connected hardware with a major focus on “computers for your face.” At its Connect event, Meta unveiled new devices, including the Oculus Quest 3S VR headset and AI-powered Ray-Ban smart glasses. However, the highlight was “Orion,” a prototype of holographic display glasses that aim to replace smartphones. CEO Mark Zuckerberg showcased how these glasses could project virtual displays, enabling users to interact through gestures or brain signals. Though still in development, Meta envisions Orion as part of the future of mixed reality. Click here to read more.

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

  • ‘Rings of Power’ Features ‘Profoundly Faith-Based’ Themes, Producer Says

  • One of the showrunners for The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power revealed that the series’ themes are “profoundly faith-based” and honor J.R.R. Tolkien’s Catholic faith, which influenced his original works. The show explores timeless themes like good vs. evil, temptation, and redemption. Showrunner Patrick McKay emphasized that the series is family-friendly, steering away from excessive violence, but still retains dark and complex elements true to Tolkien’s stories. The adaptation, while not a direct copy, aims to reflect Tolkien’s worldview and themes of hope. Click here to read more.
     

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

  • Over 90 million French records exposed: mysterious data hoarder leaves instances open

  • A massive data leak has exposed 95 million records of French citizens, including phone numbers, emails, and partial payment information, leaving them vulnerable to cyberattacks. The leak was discovered on an unprotected Elasticsearch server, containing data from at least 17 breaches across various sectors. The exposed information includes sensitive personal details that could lead to identity theft, fraud, and spearphishing attacks. Researchers warn that malicious actors may have already accessed the data. Click here to read more.

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

  • IDF commander urges readiness for possible Lebanon invasion amid Hezbollah conflict

  • IDF Northern Commander Maj. Gen. Uri Gordon has urged Israeli forces to prepare for a potential invasion of Lebanon as tensions with Hezbollah escalate. Speaking to Brigade 7, he emphasized the need for readiness, stating that the conflict has entered a new phase as part of Operation Northern Arrows. The IDF has already targeted Hezbollah’s long-range firepower and leadership. Former IDF intelligence chief Amos Yadlin suggested using air power for two weeks before any ground invasion, which would need to be completed before Lebanon’s harsh winter sets in. Diplomatic efforts are still being pushed by Western powers. Click here to read more.

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

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

by | Sep 24, 2024 | Defense, Information Security, Information Technology, Operation Swords of Iron, THE DAILY PRAETORIAN

Image Credit: iStock / FlashMovie | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“The great growling engine of change – technology.”

 

– Alvin Toffler

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

  • BAE Systems pitches ground robot to drone-hungry Australian Army

  • BAE Systems Australia unveiled its ATLAS Collaborative Combat Vehicle at the Land Forces 2024 exhibition in Melbourne. The ATLAS (Autonomous Tactical Light Armour System) is an 8×8 unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) designed for various combat roles, including reconnaissance, flank protection, and convoy escort. Equipped with a Bushmaster 25mm cannon, the vehicle can also be fitted with other weapons or sensors. The Australian Army’s 1st Armoured Regiment is being restructured into an experimental unit to test emerging technologies like UGVs, including the ATLAS. This vehicle’s modular design and mobility make it suitable for rapid deployment, and BAE is exploring upgrades for its optionally manned M113s based on the ATLAS project.

    For more details on the ATLAS vehicle and its potential, click here to read more.

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

  • TikTok Music is shutting down – here’s how to get a refund

  • TikTok has announced the shutdown of its music streaming service, TikTok Music, on November 28th, a little over a year after its launch. Users are advised to transfer their playlists to other platforms, such as Spotify or Apple Music, by October 28th using TuneMyMusic. Refunds will be issued through Apple or Google Play depending on the user’s subscription, with personal data and account information deleted after the shutdown. TikTok did not explain why the service, which was only available in five countries, is being discontinued.

    For more details on the shutdown and how to transfer your playlists, click here to read more.

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

  • Evangelist Franklin Graham Giving 20 Armored Ambulances to Israel: ‘We Can Help Save Some Lives’

  • Evangelist Franklin Graham has donated two armored ambulances to Israel’s Magen David Adom (MDA) and pledged 20 more to support emergency services in the ongoing conflict with groups like Hezbollah and Hamas. Samaritan’s Purse, led by Graham, also laid the cornerstone for a new emergency medical station near the Gaza border. These vehicles and additional trauma supply kits will help protect and aid emergency personnel responding to crises. MDA CEO Eli Bin praised Graham’s continued support, while Graham expressed hope for saving lives through the donations.

    For more details on Franklin Graham’s contributions, click here to read more.

     

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

  • Hacker plants false memories in ChatGPT to steal user data in perpetuity

  • Security researcher Johann Rehberger discovered a vulnerability in ChatGPT’s long-term memory feature that allows malicious actors to plant false memories and steal user data indefinitely. The exploit, via prompt injection, can be triggered by untrusted content like emails, documents, or images, causing ChatGPT to store incorrect information and exfiltrate user inputs to an attacker’s server. OpenAI initially dismissed the issue but later issued a partial fix. Users are advised to monitor memory additions and review stored memories to prevent malicious injections.

    For more details on the vulnerability and prevention tips, click here to read more.

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

  • Argentina’s President Milei calls out UN’s hypocrisy in condemning Israel

  • Argentine President Javier Milei delivered a speech at the UN General Assembly, defending Israel and criticizing the UN for its hypocrisy, particularly regarding its treatment of Israel. He highlighted the inclusion of dictatorships like Cuba and Venezuela in the Human Rights Council and criticized countries that punish women, while also noting the UN’s frequent votes against Israel. Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon praised Milei for his support of Israel. Milei’s remarks also condemned the UN’s shift from its original mission toward promoting collectivist policies.

    For more details on Milei’s speech and its impact, click here to read more.

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