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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.
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RC-135 Rivet Joint Surveillance Jet Just Flew Unprecedented Mission Off Mexico
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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.
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See robot dogs fight bombs in military trial
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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.
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‘Experience the Bible’: 3 Innovators Using Games, Comics, and Videos to Reach Next Generation
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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.
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Many Americans still don’t understand how easily IoT devices can get bricked
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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.
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How Israel almost wiped out Hezbollah, only days after October 7 – exclusive
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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.
