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

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

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

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

 

— Charles Dickens

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

— Jimmy Carter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Israel is closely monitoring Turkey’s increasing regional influence following the collapse of the Assad regime in Syria and the rise of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham, which Turkey has backed for over a decade. Defense Minister Israel Katz convened a high-level security meeting to assess potential threats from a Sunni Turkey-Syria axis that could collaborate with terrorist groups and heighten tensions with Israel. A report presented to Prime Minister Netanyahu highlighted concerns over Turkey’s involvement in Syria, signaling a shift in regional dynamics that warrants close attention. Stay informed about evolving geopolitical developments and their potential impact on regional security.
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/7/25

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/7/25

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

“No man is an island; we rise or fall together.”

 

— John Donne

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

  • NATO Boosting Naval Presence And AI Monitoring In Baltic Sea After Undersea Cables Cut

  • In response to suspected Russian sabotage of undersea cables between Finland and Estonia, NATO and allied nations have intensified security measures in the Baltic Sea. Nearly a dozen NATO warships will patrol the region, while the UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) has reactivated the AI-based Nordic Warden system to monitor suspicious vessels, particularly Russia’s shadow fleet. Finland continues to investigate the Russian-linked oil tanker Eagle S, suspected of severing cables with its anchor. These incidents highlight the growing strategic importance of undersea infrastructure and the escalating risks posed by sabotage. Stay updated on this critical situation as NATO strengthens its defense in the region.
     

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

  • Why there’s so much hype around Nvidia? Jensen Huang’s AI vision explained

  • At CES 2025, Nvidia unveiled groundbreaking advancements in AI, including the $3,000 “Project Digits” personal AI supercomputer, capable of running models with 200 billion parameters, and its new Cosmos platform for developing foundational AI models. These innovations aim to localize and democratize AI computing, with applications spanning robotics, autonomous vehicles, and more. Nvidia also introduced the Isaac GR00T Blueprint, accelerating humanoid robot development, and announced partnerships with Toyota, Aurora, and Continental to power next-generation autonomous vehicles. As Nvidia positions itself as an AI superpower, developers are key to unlocking its multitrillion-dollar vision for physical AI systems. Discover the future of AI and robotics—explore Nvidia’s revolutionary platforms and innovations today.
     

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

  • Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas in Bethlehem amid ongoing conflict

  • Orthodox Christians worldwide, adhering to the Julian calendar, celebrated Christmas on January 7, gathering in Bethlehem and other cities for subdued ceremonies amid regional conflicts. The ongoing Gaza war, now in its second year, cast a somber shadow over festivities, but the faithful remained resolute in preserving their ancient traditions. In Bethlehem’s Manger Square, the Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem led modest celebrations, reflecting the enduring strength and hope of this 200-million-strong community. Explore the rich traditions of Orthodox Christianity and their timeless significance in the face of adversity.

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

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

  • Heart of darkness: Former Gaza captive recounts experience as Hamas hostage

  • In a powerful interview, former hostage Sapir Cohen shared her harrowing experience of being kidnapped by Hamas on October 7 and spending 55 days in captivity in Gaza. Cohen recounted the terror of her abduction, the challenges of surviving in tunnels filled with lice and bedbugs, and the profound impact of her faith in giving her strength. Despite unimaginable conditions, she focused on helping fellow hostages and finding purpose in her ordeal. Cohen’s story highlights resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity. Learn more about her courageous journey and the ongoing efforts to support hostages and their families.
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/6/25

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/6/25

Image Credit: U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) / Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Gregory Johnson | Imagery Disclaimer

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

“Leadership is not about being in charge, it’s about taking care of those in our charge.”

 

-Simon Sinek

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

  • Red Sea Attacks Are Testing Combat Information Centers Aboard U.S. Navy Warships Like Never Before

  • The Combat Information Centers (CICs) aboard U.S. Navy warships have faced unprecedented challenges over the past year in the Red Sea, navigating high-stakes engagements against missile and drone attacks by Houthi rebels. CIC teams, led by Tactical Action Officers, must manage overwhelming volumes of data while coordinating with other strike groups to intercept threats, often under grueling conditions and with the added stress of system breakdowns and inexperienced personnel. Despite these obstacles, they’ve successfully defended U.S. ships from a barrage of attacks, demonstrating exceptional skill and resilience. However, the complexity of the environment, coupled with evolving enemy tactics, underscores the ever-present danger. Support the sailors safeguarding vital waterways by staying informed and advocating for resources to bolster their safety and effectiveness.
     

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

  • Dell kills the XPS brand

  • Dell is overhauling its product naming strategy for 2025, replacing long-standing names like XPS, Inspiron, and Latitude with simplified yet potentially confusing labels: Dell, Dell Pro, and Dell Pro Max, each further divided into Base, Plus, and Premium tiers. This new structure introduces products like the Dell Pro 13 Premium and Dell Pro Max Plus, leaving room for possible naming chaos during the transition. While aiming for simplicity, the reliance on generic terms like “Pro” and “Max” risks diluting brand identity, creating potential confusion for customers comparing old and new models. Stay informed and check Dell’s updated catalog to navigate this rebranding with ease when shopping for your next device.
     

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

  • Innovative ‘BibleProject’ Opens God’s Word to Millions in 56 Languages: ‘The Story Leads to Jesus’

  • What began as a passion project by college friends Tim Mackie and Jon Collins has transformed into BibleProject, a global phenomenon helping millions engage with the Bible in fresh, meaningful ways. Since 2014, BibleProject has created over 180 animated videos and 350 podcast episodes, reaching more than 620 million views in 200 countries and offering free seminary-level classes. Combining Tim’s deep Biblical knowledge with Jon’s creative storytelling, the project helps people of all ages and backgrounds, from children to the elderly, rediscover the Bible’s richness and central message of Jesus. BibleProject’s impact extends to places like the Muslim world, where viewers explore scripture in new ways. Experience the Bible in a deeper, more accessible way—visit BibleProject today to explore their free resources and videos.

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

  • FBI: New Orleans suspect used Meta smart glasses to prep for truck attack

  • The FBI has revealed that Shamsud-Din Jabbar, responsible for the deadly New Year’s Day attack in New Orleans’ French Quarter, used Meta smart glasses to record reconnaissance footage during visits to the city prior to the assault. These AI-powered glasses, created in partnership with Ray-Ban, enabled discreet video capture without drawing attention. Though Jabbar wore the glasses during the attack, they were not used for livestreaming, and they were later recovered by authorities. The incident highlights the potential misuse of wearable tech like Meta’s smart glasses, which include features such as hands-free recording and voice control. Stay informed about advancements in wearable technology and the ethical concerns they may raise.
     

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

  • Trump reiterates: ‘If the hostages aren’t released by the time I take office, there will be hell’

  • President-elect Donald Trump has issued a strong ultimatum regarding hostages held by Hamas, stating on the Hugh Hewitt Podcast that if they are not released by his January 20 inauguration, there will be severe repercussions. Trump emphasized his long-standing support for Israel, citing actions like moving the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem and brokering the Abraham Accords. His comments follow previous statements on Truth Social, where he warned of unprecedented retaliation against those responsible for the hostage crisis. Meanwhile, reports suggest a potential deal for the release of 34 hostages, including children and elderly individuals. Stay updated on this unfolding situation by following reliable news sources and understanding its global implications.
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/3/25

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/3/25

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

“The trouble with the world is not that people know too little; it’s that they know so many things that just aren’t so.”

 

― Mark Twain

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

  • Conspiracy theories about suspects’ military service run rampant after New Year’s Day violence

  • The first days of 2025 have been marked by tragedy, with two separate incidents of violence in New Orleans and Las Vegas claiming lives and sparking widespread speculation. The FBI has identified Army veteran Shamsud-Din Jabbar as the suspect in the New Orleans attack, while Special Forces soldier Matthew Livelsberger is believed to have been involved in the Las Vegas explosion. Despite online rumors attempting to link the events through their military service at Fort Liberty, authorities have confirmed no connection between the incidents. Meanwhile, social media platforms have amplified unsupported claims, further fueling public confusion. Investigators continue to explore motives, emphasizing that military service may not have influenced these acts. Click here to read more.

     

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

  • USB-C Is Now the Law of the Land in Europe

  • The European Union’s Common Charger Directive, effective December 28, 2024, requires most small electronic devices sold in the EU, including phones, tablets, and accessories, to adopt USB-C charging ports, aiming to reduce e-waste and simplify consumer use. Exceptions are made for non-rechargeable battery devices, wireless-only chargers, and those with secondary proprietary plugs. Additionally, the directive mandates compatibility with the USB Power Delivery (USB PD) standard for fast charging, ensuring universal charger functionality. While critics worry about potential stifling of innovation, the law accommodates future advancements. Click here for the full article.
     

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

  • Your Likes Are But Dust

  • As we step into the New Year, social media algorithms flood us with ideals—perfect routines, flawless appearances, and unattainable lifestyles—that promise fulfillment but often lead to dissatisfaction. This cultural obsession with idealization can turn into idolization, diverting Christians from their faith and the promises of God. The Book of Ecclesiastes reminds us that earthly striving is fleeting and ultimately futile, urging us instead to place our hope in God, who provides peace and purpose beyond what social media portrays. This year, let go of the chase for perfection and focus on following God and loving others as your ultimate measure of success.

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

  • US sanctions Chinese security firm behind Flax Typhoon threat actors

  • The U.S. Treasury Department has sanctioned Integrity Technology Group, Inc., a Beijing-based cybersecurity firm linked to the state-sponsored Flax Typhoon threat group, for orchestrating cyberattacks against critical U.S. infrastructure. Since 2021, Flax Typhoon has leveraged botnets comprising over 260,000 devices globally to execute Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks and exploit known vulnerabilities, targeting industries across North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa, with a special focus on Taiwan. Recent breaches include a December 2024 attack on the Treasury Department’s own IT systems. These sanctions aim to disrupt Integrity Tech’s operations while the U.S. enhances public and private sector cyber defenses. Stay vigilant against cybersecurity threats by fortifying your systems and monitoring updates on this critical issue.
     

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

  • Calls to ‘end the war in Gaza’ before Hamas is defeated risk us repeating painful past – opinion

  • The debate over whether American Jews should publicly criticize Israel carries profound implications for Israelis living under the threat of Hamas and Hezbollah. Calls to “end the war” in Gaza could allow Hamas terrorists to evade justice, perpetuate a regime oppressive to women, and risk further attacks on Israeli civilians. Historical examples, such as Israel’s withdrawals from Gaza in 2005 and southern Lebanon in 2000, highlight how such moves, influenced by international pressure, led to increased violence rather than peace. Proponents of public criticism must weigh the real-world consequences for Israelis who bear the brunt of these decisions. Stay informed and critically engaged—read the full article on The Jerusalem Post for nuanced perspectives on these complex issues.
THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/2/25

THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 1/2/25

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

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

“I must go down to the seas again, to the lonely sea and the sky,
And all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by;
And the wheel’s kick and the wind’s song and the white sail’s shaking,
And a grey mist on the sea’s face, and a grey dawn breaking.”

 

-“Sea Fever” by John Masefield

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

  • How Sailor Poets Take Over U.S. Navy Deck Logs On New Year’s Day

  • Happy New Year! These deck log poems from Navy ships over the decades beautifully blend duty and creativity, turning the often mundane task of record-keeping into an artful tradition. From the poignant entries of the USS Gilmer during WWII to the USS Farragut’s witty and vibrant log for 2024, these verses capture the spirit of life at sea and the camaraderie of the crew. The evolving tradition—from its height during the Vietnam War to today’s occasional entries—serves as a reminder of the unique blend of professionalism and humanity within the Navy. Whether reflecting on serious missions or adding a touch of humor to long watches, these poems showcase a cherished and enduring Naval legacy.

    Fair winds and following seas in the year ahead!

     

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

  • Microsoft’s mini AI PCs are on the way

  • Microsoft’s Copilot Plus technology is making its way to mini PCs, with ASUS and Geekom leading the charge by showcasing compact devices that support advanced AI features like Recall, Click To Do, and AI-powered image editing in Windows 11. These mini PCs, powered by AMD Strix Point CPUs, Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite processors, and Intel Arrow Lake-H, are set to rival Apple’s Mac Mini in performance and versatility, as revealed ahead of CES 2024. With dedicated Copilot buttons and expanded AI capabilities, these systems signal a shift toward seamless AI integration in compact computing. Stay tuned to CES for more insights into how Microsoft and its partners are shaping the future of AI-powered devices.
     

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

  • What should be the ultimate New Year’s resolution?

  • At the start of each year, many Christians focus their prayers on personal needs, often overlooking God’s will and the Great Commission. Oscar Amaechina, a missionary and author, challenges believers to shift their focus from self-centered prayers to asking, “Lord, what can I do for You?” By prioritizing God’s mission to spread the Gospel and fulfill His purpose of filling the earth with His glory, Christians can align with His will and actively participate in His work. Let 2025 be a year of self-denial and dedication to spreading the knowledge of Christ worldwide.

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

  • Arrested development: top hacker busts of 2024

  • In 2024, law enforcement around the world intensified efforts against cybercrime, leading to significant operations like Operation Cronos, which dismantled the notorious LockBit ransomware cartel and exposed its leader, Dmitry Yuryevich Khoroshev. Key arrests were made in groups such as Scattered Spider, and Europol’s Operation Endgame targeted botnets crucial to ransomware deployments. Additionally, the apprehension of hackers involved in the Snowflake data breaches highlighted vulnerabilities in cloud storage security. These coordinated actions showcase the increasing effectiveness of international cooperation in combating cyber threats. Stay informed about cybersecurity best practices and support initiatives that enhance digital safety worldwide.
     

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

  • Biden given options for potential US attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities, Axios reports

  • President Joe Biden reportedly reviewed options for a potential U.S. strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities, contingent on Iran advancing its nuclear weapons program before President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration. Discussions, led by National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, focused on the Middle East’s current dynamics, including weakened Iranian allies and escalating tensions. While Biden has emphasized sanctions over military action in the past, no decision was made during these talks, and further discussions have not been reported. Stay updated on developments in U.S.-Iran relations and their implications for global security.

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