Today in Security

You’re Sure Your SOC Can Detect Coordinated Threats. Can You Prove It?

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 10:32:05 -0400

A new report from HiveWatch found that 93 percent of physical security leaders said they are confident they could detect a coordinated threat amid the current alarm volume, but only 19 percent always meet their own service level agreements (SLAs).

The Numbers Add Up to Strange Security

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 12:11:37 -0400

Strange things happen in this world, and sometimes those strange things have ties to security in some way. Once a month, we report some of the stranger security-related, or security-adjacent, stories our editors have run across.

Bureau of Prisons Employees Used Badges to Improperly Obtain Firearms for Personal Use, Watchdog Finds

Fri, 29 May 2026 12:59:04 -0400

U.S. Federal Bureau of Prisons employees used their work credentials to buy guns for personal use, even when not authorized to carry a firearm at work, according to a watchdog report released this week.

Beware: New Ransomware Scam Uses In-Person IT Tech Impersonators

Thu, 28 May 2026 12:43:52 -0400

On 26 May, the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) issued a flash alert warning of a ransomware group that is supplementing social engineering schemes with paid, in-person support. The warning was specifically for U.S. law firms, a favorite target of this particular group.

Fear, Conflict, and Misinformation Complicate Ebola Outbreak Treatment in DRC

Wed, 27 May 2026 12:19:19 -0400

Regular clashes and waves of violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo decimated state services in rural areas and pushed people into crowded camps to escape the fighting—which has serious ramifications for efforts to treat an ongoing Ebola outbreak.

Investigation Continues into Physical and Sexual Violence in Parisian After-School Programs

Tue, 26 May 2026 13:15:33 -0400

An ongoing investigation into city-wide allegations of child abuse at nurseries and primary schools in Paris, France, has led to arrests, trials, and protests from both parents and school staff.

Virginia Judge Dismisses Charges Against Former School Administrator for Failing to Prevent a Shooting

Fri, 22 May 2026 11:58:44 -0400

A Virginia judge dismissed charges against a former school administrator accused of failing to act on several warnings that a student had a gun, which he used later that day to shoot his teacher.

Preparations for Two High-Profile Murder Trials Proceed

Thu, 21 May 2026 10:24:38 -0400

Judges overseeing the trials involving the murders of Brian Thompson in New York and Charlie Kirk in Utah hear arguments and make rulings as both cases make progress toward trials.

New Health Security Operations Center Ramps Up for World Cup Monitoring

Wed, 20 May 2026 09:21:48 -0400

A new partnership led by Georgetown University and MedStar Health seeks to provide early and actionable information about emerging disease risks around the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Ebola Outbreak Declared Public Health Emergency

Tue, 19 May 2026 12:56:57 -0400

The World Health Organization announced that the current Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda constitutes a public health emergency, with impacts on several nations.

Militia Commander Allegedly Plotted Attacks on U.S. Jewish Sites

Mon, 18 May 2026 13:06:32 -0400

“In my 18 years in government, I have not seen a threat environment quite like this one,” said NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch. “Today’s case is a stark example of how these tensions that originate overseas translate into violence.”

New Report Highlights Limitations of Relying on Background Screening as Fraud Prevention Measure

Fri, 15 May 2026 09:06:14 -0400

The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners' latest report found that most occupational fraudsters passed background checks without exhibiting red flags, including 4 percent of employees previously convicted on fraud charges.

Denver Airport Security Scrutinized After Perimeter Breach

Thu, 14 May 2026 11:46:33 -0400

Late on 8 May, a man breached the perimeter of the Denver International Airport and was killed on a runway as a jet was taking off. The incident has triggered scrutiny of airport perimeter security.

Staffing Continues to Complicate K-12 Entrance Security

Wed, 13 May 2026 11:59:56 -0400

While 86 percent of U.S. K-12 school staff say securing the school building’s front entrance is a top or high priority, 36 percent said their entrances are only somewhat, minimally, or not at all secure, according to a new survey.

Lax Security Management of AI Agents and Other Non-Human Identities Costs Companies

Tue, 12 May 2026 12:42:45 -0400

Identity-related breaches were the biggest cybersecurity headache in 2025, with nearly 70 percent of ransomware victims reporting that their ransomware incidents were tied to an identity attack.

Public Health Update: What We Know About the Hantavirus Outbreak

Mon, 11 May 2026 12:07:39 -0400

Around 150 passengers and crew from the MV Hondius cruise ship were evacuated on 10 May one month after a passenger died onboard from a hantavirus outbreak.

Insider Risk Management: Lessons from the Polymarket Wagers on the Maduro Raid

Fri, 08 May 2026 11:16:15 -0400

The U.S. Department of Justice charged a special forces solder with using his access to classified information to profit on wagers on a prediction market. For our May Legal Report, we spoke with risk management experts to understand what the indictment means for insider risk management.

U.S. Workers Report Toxic Boss Behaviors

Thu, 07 May 2026 13:15:03 -0400

According to new survey research from The Harris Poll Thought Leadership Practice, 60 percent of American workers have a boss who exhibits toxic behaviors, and a total of 70 percent say they have had at least one toxic boss during their career.

Series of Swatting Hoaxes Hits U.S. Zoos

Wed, 06 May 2026 12:16:22 -0400

Zoos in Arizona, Colorado, Kentucky, Ohio, and more evacuated and temporarily closed in response to bomb and active shooter threats during the first week of May.

Restless Mayon Volcano Disrupts Philippines With Massive Ashfall

Tue, 05 May 2026 11:27:24 -0400

In the Philippines, Mayon volcano recently spewed out huge deposits of lava, hot rocks, ash, and gas, triggering an evacuation that had more than 5,400 people fleeing the impacted areas.

Security Agencies Issue Guidance on Safely Implementing Agentic AI Capabilities

Mon, 04 May 2026 10:38:25 -0400

So, you want to implement agentic artificial intelligence (AI) into your business? Do so carefully, warns a group of government cybersecurity agencies.

Europol Says Fraud Schemes are Now the Fastest-Growing Area of Internet Organized Crime

Fri, 01 May 2026 12:49:09 -0400

Organized crime groups like the Black Axe are increasingly targeting both European individuals and organizations in cyber-enabled fraud schemes that generate substantial profits and significant losses—$64.1 billion in the EU in 2025 alone.

Sorry Drake, Your Strange Security Story Doesn’t Make the Cut

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 11:43:08 -0400

You know there has been a lot of strange security-adjacent news in the month when the filming of a Drake video causing a huge fireball over Toronto is relegated to the “and our editors ran across these other strange stories” section of the article.

Campus Shooting Victims Sue Brown University for Negligent Security

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 12:25:08 -0400

Three students who were injured during a shooting at Brown University in December 2025 are suing the school, alleging security failures.

Most Business Leaders Overly Confident in How to Handle Future Disruptions

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 14:08:16 -0400

A new survey spotted a “preparedness paradox” between an executive's confidence in crisis planning and the operational reality of how a business reacts.

Correspondents’ Dinner Attack Places Scrutiny on Semi-Public Venue Security

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 13:02:02 -0400

The layered security measures at the Washington Hilton hotel for an annual press event are under scrutiny after an armed assailant rushed through a security checkpoint to try and access the high-profile attendees.

U.S. Government Claims China is Engaged in ‘Industrial-Scale Campaign’ to Distill AI Systems

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 10:43:24 -0400

The U.S. government alleged that China is engaged in a deliberate, industrial-scale campaign to distill U.S. frontier artificial intelligence (AI) systems, according to a White House memo published Thursday.

The Executives We Have Are Not Necessarily the Leaders We Need

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 12:16:40 -0400

Executives tend to exhibit individualistic traits, but workers want their leaders to focus on team building. So says a new research study from Hogan Assessments.

Mexico to Boost Security at Tourist Sites After Shooting

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 10:41:28 -0400

While considered an isolated incident, the incident spurred action from Mexican government officials looking to reassure visitors ahead of the World Cup 2026.

Employees Keep Bypassing Approved Communications Tools, Putting Metadata at Risk, New Report Finds

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 13:53:10 -0400

A new analysis from BlackBerry reveals a security gap surrounding end-to-end encryption. It's us. We're the problem.

Activists Attempting to Storm Beagle Research Facility Were Met with Rubber Bullets and Barricades

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 12:02:23 -0400

The research beagle breeding facility boosted its perimeter security measures following an incursion by activists in March 2026.

On the Clock But Mentally Checked Out: Managers Say They’re Increasingly Disengaged at Work

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 11:53:29 -0400

Engagement at work is continuing its downward trend, but there’s a new metric that has workforce analysts concerned: lower engagement among managers now accounts for most of the recent downturn in employee engagement.

Turkey Rocked by Another Mass School Shooting

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 13:26:30 -0400

On 15 April, a 14-year-old entered a middle school in the Kahramanmaraş province of Turkey and began shooting, killing eight students, a teacher, and himself, and wounding 13 others. It was the second school shooting in two days in the country.

When Retail Risk Strikes

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 08:44:10 -0400

Retail risk incidents follow predictable operating rhythms, spiking 363 percent at store openings and peaking between 6:00 and 8:00 p.m., according to a new report from Interface Systems.

Former Student Opens Fire on Turkish High School

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 11:47:47 -0400

A teenager “indiscriminately” attacked his former school in Şanlıurfa, Turkey, with a shotgun on Tuesday, injuring 16 people.

Half of 2025 U.S. Fraud Losses Were Linked to Cryptocurrency Scams

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 12:15:33 -0400

Americans who submitted cryptocurrency fraud complaints to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) reported significantly high losses last year—181,565 complaints totaled more than $11 billion, up 22 percent from 2024.

Ireland Sees Fourth Day of Protests and Blockades By Farmers

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 11:47:17 -0400

Protesters upset over high fuel prices entered a fourth day of demonstrations, blocking access to fuel depots and parts of Dublin, raising concerns over fuel shortages and access to emergency services.

Public Officials Face Violent Threats Like Never Before

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 12:20:01 -0400

A pair of new resources show the political environment in the United States has created a volatile cocktail in which those engaged in public service and political debate face increasing threats to themselves and their families.

Project Glasswing: Anthropic’s New Initiative to Use AI to Bolster Cyber Defenses

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 13:04:40 -0400

Anthropic’s Mythos Preview is particularly good at finding and exploiting software programming vulnerabilities. Anthropic said it will not be releasing the product publicly, rather, they will share the model with selective companies who can use it to find and patch vulnerabilities in the world’s most important systems.

White House Budget Proposal Would Spike Spending for Defense, Cut Major CISA and FEMA Programs

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 13:27:45 -0400

The Trump administration’s proposed fiscal budget for 2027 would increase spending to a historic $1.5 trillion for national defense, while simultaneously significantly slashing support for domestic defense programs.

Travelers Increasingly Concerned About Geopolitical Conflict, Survey Finds

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 12:33:53 -0400

American travelers are hesitant to book trips because of global conflict—far outstripping concerns about rising travel costs, according to a new survey.

Legal Report: U.S. Appellate Court Upholds Contractor Liability for Conspiracy at Abu Ghraib

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 08:00:11 -0400

A U.S. Appeals Court upheld a jury decision that U.S. government contractor CACI is liable for conspiring to torture and cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment of detainees at Abu Ghraib prison.

Environmental Activists Get Aggressive in Antarctic Waters

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 14:20:56 -0400

Earlier this week the Bandero, a vessel operated the by Captain Paul Watson Foundation, attempted to disrupt the Antarctic Sea, a Norwegian fishing vessel operated by Aker Qrill in the Southern Ocean between Antarctica and the tip of South America by ramming it.

Despite Training and Skill Gaps, U.S. Employers Still Prefer College Graduates

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 13:44:01 -0400

Nearly 70 percent of employers said that recent college graduates hired in the past 12 months needed a moderate to a great deal of additional training or skills development to perform effectively in their roles, according to a recent Gallup-Lumina Foundation survey.

Take a Break with These Wacky Security-Related News Stories

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 10:22:21 -0400

ISC West 2026: During the AI Boom, Trust Is Crucial

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 12:59:37 -0400

This year at ISC West, some manufacturers sought to reassure potential clients about the security and privacy of their data—and the ethics behind those AI-enabled tools.

New Research Probes Current State of Worker Stress and Mental Health

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 15:51:49 -0400

The National Alliance on Mental Illness released findings from its annual survey of U.S. worker attitudes on mental health earlier this month. Spoiler: the state of the world and workplace pressures have created a stressed workforce, and the last place people want to talk about it is with their organization’s leaders.

Two Juries Hold Social Media Companies Liable for Harming Minors

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 13:32:57 -0400

This week juries in California and New Mexico found that social media products from Meta and Google were harmful to underage users in cases that could be examples for thousands of other lawsuits currently in litigation.

How the Port of Antwerp-Bruges Built a Resilient Innovation Hub

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 11:38:18 -0400

Once a 12th Century docking station on the Scheldt River in Antwerp, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges has evolved into a lifeline for Belgium and a critical supply chain between Europe and the world.

Cyberattack Activity Linked to the Middle East Increases

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 10:06:27 -0400

A new report from information assurance firm NCC Group found that hacktivism related to the Iran War has increased in several ways.

Business vs. Security Skills: Talent Acquisition Faces a Priority Shift

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 11:29:34 -0400

The balance of workplace skills is shifting—in a recent survey, 62 percent of CSOs surveyed said that business or organizational skills are more important than security subject matter expertise.

Terrorism Incidents and Deaths Dropped in 2025, But Border Region Activity Continues to Proliferate

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 13:12:16 -0400

While terrorism incidents and the deaths they caused dropped markedly in 2025, the outbreak of war in Iran suggests that the decline might be a brief moment of reprieve before numbers trend upwards again, according to new analysis from the Institute of Economics and Peace (IEP).

Intensifying Pakistan-Afghanistan Conflict Could Have Broad Implications for the Region

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 12:28:16 -0400

While the war in Iran continues, the escalating conflict between Iranian neighbors Afghanistan and Pakistan threatens additional complications in a roiling geopolitical situation.

10 Percent of TSA Agents Call Off Work During Partial Shutdown

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 10:37:25 -0400

If the partial government shutdown continues much longer and TSA absentee rates keep climbing, some small U.S. airports may need to close, said Adam Stahl, TSA acting deputy administrator.

Cuba’s Energy Grid Collapses in Response to U.S. Oil Blockade

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 12:47:37 -0400

After three months without an oil shipment, Cuba's power grid collapsed on 16 March, triggering a nation-wide blackout.

For Violent Attackers, AI Chatbots Prove Dangerously Helpful

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 11:20:57 -0400

Researchers found that eight of the 10 leading chatbot platforms helped would-be attackers in more than half of responses, including providing guidance around weapon selection and targeting.

Security Personnel Stop Vehicle Attack at Michigan Synagogue as Threats to Jewish Institutions Rise

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 12:41:51 -0400

Security personnel at a Michigan synagogue shot and killed a man after he drove a vehicle that contained chemical agents into the building on Thursday.

Effects of War in Iran Spread Around the Globe

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 15:23:23 -0400

As the United States and Israel’s war against Iran approaches the two-week mark, the reach of the conflict continues to stretch worldwide.

Nation-States Use Compromised Surveillance Cameras for Targeting, Report Says

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 10:46:49 -0400

Scanning activity targeted cameras with known vulnerabilities—including some that have been patchable since 2017—to take over devices and gain on-the-ground surveillance on potential targets.

Three Arrested in Connection to Nightclub Bombing in Peru

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 12:20:43 -0400

Authorities have arrested three people suspected of involvement in the explosion at a nightclub in Trujillo, Peru, that left at least 33 people injured on 7 March.

Is Cybersecurity a Welcoming Career? 72 Percent of Female Cyber Practitioners Say Yes

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 12:36:58 -0400

Despite overall optimism about the state of cybersecurity careers, women in the industry are pursuing more upskilling and training around AI and technical skills to boost their next job prospects.

Legal Report: DOD Disavows Premier Partner, Anthropic

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 06:00:10 -0500

The U.S. Department of Defense designated Anthropic a supply chain risk to national security. Here’s what that could entail and how it could affect other government contractors.

Major Hub of Stolen Data and Phishing Operation Neutralized

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 12:53:40 -0500

It’s been a good week for people fighting cybercrime. LeakBase, a major hub of stolen credentials and other data, was taken offline by a worldwide, multijurisdictional action, and a Microsoft-led coalition took down large phishing platform Tycoon 2FA.

Organizations, Travelers Are Stuck Between Evacuation Orders and Limited Routes in Middle East

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 12:38:07 -0500

Despite government guidance to evacuate 14 Middle Eastern countries, many U.S. tourists, business travelers, and other citizens are stuck, with few flights out of the area and no clear instructions on how to exit.

Strait of Hormuz Closure: Impacts on Oil and Supply Chains

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 15:05:14 -0500

After the United States and Israel began major combat operations, Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz, which has far-reaching impacts on energy security and supply chains.

Security Has Gone to the Dogs!

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 10:58:01 -0500

It’s doggy delirium in this month’s roundup of strange security and security-adjacent news.

Anthropic Refuses Pentagon Demand to Remove AI Security and Safety Guardrails

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 11:37:27 -0500

Artificial intelligence firm Anthropic held firm to its founding principles this week, refusing to remove safety and security guardrails for its services in the face of mounting pressure from the U.S. Department of Defense.

CISA’s Effectiveness Erodes

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 14:13:41 -0500

A variety of sources point to a U.S. federal agency gutted of funding and staff that can no longer support its mission or sustain the vital security partnerships it built.

Louvre Director Resigns After Security Lapses and Scams

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 07:36:20 -0500

Louvre Museum Director Laurence des Cars resigned on 24 February, less than five months after a brazen theft of $100 million worth of historical jewelry put the Louvre’s security in the spotlight.

Attackers Increasingly Use AI To Target Trust, CrowdStrike Finds

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 13:52:02 -0500

Malicious cyber attackers increasingly used artificial intelligence, getting savvier and faster in their attacks in 2025, according to the latest Global Threat Report from CrowdStrike.

Mexican Security Forces on High Alert After Death of Cartel Kingpin ‘El Mencho’

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 12:00:58 -0500

Nemosio "El Mencho" Oseguera Cervantes led the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (known by the Spanish language acronym CJNG), which is one of Mexico’s dominant drug-trafficking organizations.

U.S. Supreme Court Strikes Down Trump’s Emergency Tariffs

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 12:40:00 -0500

The U.S. Supreme Court struck down U.S. President Donald Trump’s global tariff agenda in a much-anticipated ruling on Friday.

Senators Note Decline in OSHA Enforcement, Call for Answers

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 11:38:50 -0500

Five Democratic senators, led by Elizabeth Warren from Massachusetts, sent a letter to Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer citing ways they say the administration is “rolling back protections that keep workers safe and hobbling the agency that is tasked with overseeing worker safety.”

Logistics ID Fraud Attempts Spiked 200 Percent in Two Years, Report Says

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 12:08:25 -0500

The growth “isn’t a fluctuation or random spike; it’s a sustained trend driven by organized criminal enterprises that have identified cargo theft as a lucrative, relatively low-risk operation,” according to research from IDScan.net.

Authorities Take Down Ticketing Fraud Network Targeting the Louvre for 10 Years

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 12:50:16 -0500

Authorities charged nine people, including two museum employees, for a decade-long fraud that scammed the Louvre out of nearly $12 million.

German Chancellor Merz Calls on Europe to Create its Own Security Strategy to Bolster NATO

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 12:15:20 -0500

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called on his European allies to become real players in global politics with their own united security policy strategy in a speech at the Munich Security Conference on 13 February.

Confusion Reigned in Hours-Long Shutdown of Air Space Over El Paso

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 10:51:58 -0500

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration closed airspace below 18,000 feet in the region for 10 days, then rescinded the closure hours later. The decisions caused a great deal of confusion and frustration.

Nine People Killed in Shootings in Small Canadian Community of Tumbler Ridge

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 12:19:14 -0500

Decades of Fraud Under Investigation at Prudential of Japan

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 13:55:34 -0500

An investigation and subsequent course-correction into fraud spanning nearly 35 years is likely to result in up to $350 million in losses for the insurance provider Prudential Life Insurance Company, Ltd. (Prudential of Japan).

In Search for Lessons, Inquest into Bondi Junction Stabbings Delivers

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 13:33:13 -0500

Australian authorities compiled an exhaustive account of what went right and what went wrong in the 2024 stabbing incident at a shopping center that killed six and wounded several others.

Legal Report: DHS Funding on the Line Amidst ICE Reform Effort

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 06:00:10 -0500

U.S. legislators have until 13 February to negotiate reforms to DHS’s immigration enforcement efforts before the department’s funding runs out.

Nike and DEI Fall into the Crosshairs of the New EEOC

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 15:59:36 -0500

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has opened an investigation into sportswear company Nike for “systemic allegations of DEI-related intentional race discrimination.” The investigation will seek to ascertain if the company discriminated against white employees.

Executive Targeting Incidents Doubled in 2025, Report Finds

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 10:30:21 -0500

After a temporary decline in incidents in 2022 and 2023, executive targeting incidents started to rise again in 2024—driven primarily by activism-related incidents—and experienced a sharp increase in 2025 with 95 cases in the first 10 months of the year.

New International AI Safety Report Spotlights Emerging Risks

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 13:34:43 -0500

The AI Security Institute's newest report found increasing and emerging concerns around the use of artificial intelligence (AI), including deepfakes, biological weapons, and cyberattacks. The report was supported by more than 30 nations and international organizations.

Vape Ban in Mexico Fuels New Revenue for Cartels

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 11:07:14 -0500

A new ban on e-cigarettes pushes sales underground in Mexico, potentially giving cartels a bigger opportunity to profit from the devices.

What in the Wide World of Sports Is Going On?

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 12:32:29 -0500

A collection of recent strange security news stories, focusing on the sports world this month.

Six EU Nations Renew Discussions of a ‘Two-Speed Europe’

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 11:44:43 -0500

Finance ministers from Germany, France, Poland, Spain, Italy, and The Netherlands held a call on 28 January to discuss a German proposal to form a small group of the European Union’s largest economies to advance the continent’s economic interests.

Treasury Department Cancels Booz Allen Contracts, Citing Past Insider Threat Incident

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 10:53:50 -0500

The U.S. Department of Treasury canceled all its contracts with consulting firm Booz Allen Hamilton on Tuesday and referenced a past insider threat incident as the reasoning.

60 Minnesota-Based Organizations Call for De-Escalation of Tensions

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 16:35:13 -0500

After the separate fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens in Minnesota by federal agents, more than 60 CEOs and leaders from companies headquartered in the city issued a letter calling for a de-escalation of tensions and for authorities to work towards “real solutions.”

Trust Shrinks Beyond Grievance into Insular Camps, Global Survey Finds

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 12:20:26 -0500

The global degradation of trust has moved beyond polarization, beyond grievance, and is creeping into insularity, where people are increasingly reluctant to trust anyone different from them, according to the 2026 Edelman Trust Barometer.

Minnesota Business Community Grapples with Closures, Staffing Shortages as ICE Surge Continues

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 11:49:42 -0500

More than 700 businesses in Minnesota are closed today as part of a statewide day of action protesting aggressive immigration enforcement actions that have swept up U.S. citizens and undocumented immigrants alike.

Former Uvalde School Police Officer Acquitted of Charges in 2022 Mass Shooting

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 11:22:51 -0500

A jury acquitted former Uvalde, Texas, school police officer Adrian Gonzales of 29 charges in connection to his actions on 24 May 2022 when a gunman killed 19 students and two teachers at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde.

Successful CEOs Seek Innovation During Uncertain Times, PWC Survey Finds

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 10:55:57 -0500

PwC found that CEOs are significantly less confident about short-term growth at their companies and they are more worried about a range of threats, including macroeconomic volatility, cyber risk, and geopolitical conflicts.

South Africa Declares a National Disaster As Death Toll From Rains and Floods Rise

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 13:49:06 -0500

On 18 January, South Africa’s National Disaster Management Center declared that the torrential rains and floods in the region qualify as a national disaster after at least 30 people in the country died.

PM Confirms Poland Stopped Major Cyberattack Targeting its Energy Grid in December 2025

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 13:50:40 -0500

Poland Prime Minister Donald Tusk said in a news briefing this week that the country defended itself against destabilization efforts targeting its energy grid in December 2025.

When Dealing with Cyber Incidents, Speed Is Key

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 13:07:06 -0500

When it comes to a highly disruptive cyber attack—one that renders mobile, remote, and hybrid endpoint devices inoperable—time has become a critical factor.

Global Natural Disaster Damage Topped $220 Billion in 2025

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 12:07:02 -0500

Peak perils, such as major hurricanes and earthquakes, still affected some regions, but the number of non-peak events drove up overall costs.

European Authorities Arrest 34 Suspects in Operation Against Black Axe

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 12:07:58 -0500

Spanish authorities arrested 34 people suspected of involvement in Black Axe, an organized criminal network involved in various crimes, including business email compromise schemes.

Geopolitcal and Economic Tensions Rachet Up as Iranian Protests Continue

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 12:12:54 -0500

Protests in Iran quickly spread from shopkeepers to students to the public at large during the past two weeks, driven by anger over economic issues, political repression, social unrest, and overall complaints about the nation’s clerical leadership.

Legal Report: How a DJI Ban Could Impact the Drone Industry

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 11:04:18 -0500

The FCC banned new sales of foreign-made drones in the United States, posing major problems for drone market dominator DJI.

ICE Shooting in Minneapolis Creates Tense Environment

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 12:36:26 -0500

On the morning of 7 January, a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent shot and killed Renee Nicole Macklin Good in a residential neighborhood south of downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota, sparking a wave of protests.

NYC Marks Significant Decline in Most Violent Crime Rates

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 11:16:14 -0500

New York City recorded 688 shooting incidents in 2025, notably lower than the previous record low of 754 in 2018.

Troublesome Tithes: Scammers Use Deepfakes to Trick Churchgoers

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 15:37:15 -0500

Scammers are using artificial intelligence to defraud churches and churchgoers.

U.S. Oil Companies Face Significant Costs and Risks When Reentering Venezuela

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 12:12:55 -0500

Venezuela has some of the world’s largest oil reserves, but U.S. President Donald Trump’s goals of restarting U.S. oil companies’ activity in the country face significant infrastructure and security challenges.

Reviewing Some of the Strangest Security-Related News of the Past Year

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 10:45:31 -0500

Today in Security editors review a year's worth of strange security items and curate a top-10 list.

2025 in Review: Security Management’s Favorite Stories

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 10:38:12 -0500

Read on for a look at the themes, topics, and articles that connected with the Security Management team the most in 2025. May they inspire you as you head into 2026!

Flashback to Your Favorite SM Stories from 2025

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 07:19:09 -0500

Uncertainty and instability were hallmarks of 2025, but Security Management readers were clearly trying to get ahead of changing risks by studying up on emerging threat actors and extremism—as well as risks to their teams’ well-being.

Hide the Good China: Insider Allegedly Steals Silverware from Élysée Palace

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 10:29:12 -0500

A silver steward at the French presidential palace is facing charges of stealing thousands of euros' worth of “heritage property” after precious silverware and tableware items went missing.

President Trump Mandates Effort to Speed-Up Moving Marijuana to a Schedule III Drug

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 12:08:56 -0500

U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order Thursday evening that could change the way marijuana is regulated in the country and create confusion for drug testing policies.

Global Risk Forecast Warns of More Geopolitical and Technological Strife in 2026

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 13:08:40 -0500

A new report looks at how geopolitical volatility and adoption of rapidly emerging technologies effects risk outlooks in different regions around the world.

Widow Sues Building Management, Alleging Lax Security Allowed Midtown Manhattan Shooting

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 11:17:36 -0500

The widow of a man killed in the July 2025 shooting at a midtown Manhattan office building has sued the building, its contract security provider, and a tenant, accusing them of lax security.

Investigation into Brown University Mass Casualty Shooting Continues

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 12:08:14 -0500

A gunman killed two students and wounded nine others in a Brown University lecture hall. As of publishing time, authorities had detained and released one suspect and were actively trying to gather leads on a new suspect.

Mass Shooting at Hanukkah Festival Shocks Australia, Prompts Calls for Reforms

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 12:02:24 -0500

Two men—a father and son—opened fire at a family-centric Hanukkah celebration at the popular Bondi Beach in Sydney, authorities said.

Trump Signs AI Executive Order, Attempting to Penalize States’ Regulatory Efforts

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 10:29:01 -0500

U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order Thursday evening that allows his administration to neutralize U.S. state regulations on artificial intelligence (AI).

Risk Management Faces Dizzying Pace of Threats in 2026

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 11:59:30 -0500

A new outlook from International SOS found that 74 percent of security and health specialists said the timescale for making critical risk decisions is tightening, but only 35 percent were confident they could mobilize teams quickly in a crisis.

Investigators Find That Avoidable Security Failures Enabled Louvre Heist

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 13:25:22 -0500

A series of avoidable security failures enabled the Louvre heist thieves to evade police and make off with France’s crown jewels, according to a scathing investigation released Wednesday morning.

Flash Mobs Stole More than $8M in Goods in Five Years, FBI Calculates

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 10:42:30 -0500

Flash mob robberies are quick, chaotic, and costly, but they account for a small subsection of overall retail crime, according to recent data from the FBI.

Report: Identifiable Information From More Than 70 Percent of Doctors Exposed Online

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 10:37:05 -0500

An Incogni report revealed that nearly three out of every four doctors have had personally identifiable information exposed on one or more people search sites.

Suspect Arrested and Charged with Placing Pipe Bombs Outside RNC and DNC Headquarters in 2021

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 10:32:32 -0500

U.S. federal authorities arrested a Virginia man on Thursday and charged him with planting two pipe bombs outside top political parties’ headquarters in 2021.

How Executive Protection is Changing One Year After UnitedHealthcare CEO Attack

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 13:14:23 -0500

One year after a gunman shot and killed UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson outside a hotel in New York City, the security industry continues to reckon with the shifting threat landscape of executive protection.

2025 U.S. Mass Killings Decrease, But Don’t Expect a Permanent Downward Trend

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 10:26:23 -0500

The shooting last weekend at a children’s birthday party in California was the 17th mass killing this year—down about 24 percent compared to 2024.

Death Toll in Cyclone-Battered Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Malaysia reaches 1,140

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 11:39:54 -0500

Three major storms simultaneously hit South and Southeast Asia, making the 2025 monsoon season one of the most devastating.

Wine, Legs, Parakeets, and the All-Important Secret Sauce

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 08:06:55 -0500

Our editors bring you the strangest stories from the realm of security-related news each month.

Armed Conflicts and Shrinking Humanitarian Aid Drive Acute Food Instability in Key Hotspots

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 10:22:50 -0500

During a six-month outlook period, conflict and other forms of armed violence are a primary driver of food insecurity in 14 out of 16 hotspots, according to a new UN report.

Belgian Unions Continue Three-Day Strike

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 12:51:08 -0500

Several unions have joined together in a three-day national strike in response to Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever’s attempts to change labor laws, unemployment benefits, and pensions.

Gunmen Abduct Hundreds of Children from Nigerian School

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 12:14:10 -0500

While 50 of the 303 kidnapped children escaped during the weekend, a major military-led search and rescue operation is underway for the remaining kidnapping victims.

UK Inquiry Says Government Did ‘Too Little, Too Late,’ in Response to COVID-19 Pandemic

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 12:58:10 -0500

The four governments of the United Kingdom responded during the COVID-19 pandemic. But they did “too little, too late,” to effectively stop the the virus from spreading during a critical moment in time, according to a national inquiry published this week.

Corporations Turn to Emails, Zoom Calls to Conduct Impersonal Mass Layoffs

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 10:19:27 -0500

Reduction in force methods are increasingly remote, quick, and impersonal—and the new trend of "forever layoffs" has emerged.

Louvre Speeds Up Security Upgrades After Heist

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 10:28:06 -0500

Around 100 new surveillance cameras will be up and running at the museum by the end of 2026, and anti-intrusion systems will be installed starting in the next two weeks.

Europol and EU Nations Remove Thousands of Extremist and Violent Links Shared on Gaming Sites

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 12:21:20 -0500

A coordinated European operation to find and remove terrorist, racist, and xenophobic material uncovered thousands of instances where platforms popular with online gamers were used to promote dangerous and violent content.

New Guide Describes How to Protect Journalists from Online Abuse

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 11:08:24 -0500

Journalists have to be online to do their jobs, but their visibility and the nature of their work make them lightning rods for vitriol, abuse, or backlash.

The Promise and Peril of How K-12 Schools Approach Behavioral Threat Assessments

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 13:46:57 -0500

A new research report found that nearly every public K-12 school in the United States used a behavioral threat assessment management (BTAM) team, or something similar, in the 2024-2025 school year. However, the report notes plenty of areas that can be improved.

Malware and Ransomware Are to Blame for Rising Number of Cyber Insurance Claims

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 12:20:17 -0500

Malware and ransomware accounted for 51 percent of UK cyber insurance claims reported in an ABI project, up from 32 percent in 2023.

Indian Authorities Investigating Car Explosion as Possible Terrorist Attack

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 11:47:13 -0500

India’s national counter-terrorism law enforcement agency is leading the investigation of a car explosion on 10 November in the nation’s capital that left at least 13 people dead.

Climate Disasters Displaced 250 Million People During the Last Decade

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 11:57:58 -0500

In a major study, the UNHCR assessed that weather-related disasters have caused more than 250 million displacements—people who are forced to move from their homes to another location in their country—in the past decade, a 10 percent increase compared to the ten-year average through the end of 2023.

Virginia Jury Awards $10 Million in Damages to First Grade Teacher Shot by Student

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 11:28:23 -0500

A Virginia jury awarded $10 million in damages on Thursday to former elementary school teacher Abby Zwerner, who was shot by a student in her classroom in January 2023.

Man Arrested for Sexual Assault After Publicly Groping Mexico’s President

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 15:08:41 -0500

Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum said she will press charges against an intoxicated man who groped and attempted to kiss her as she moved through a small crowd in Mexico City.

Staff Shortages Delay, Ground Some U.S. Flights as Government Shutdown Drags on

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 11:51:58 -0500

Frontline aviation workers are missing paychecks and cannot always afford to get to work, resulting in increased delays and travel security risks as the U.S. federal government shutdown stretches into its second month.

Two Men Arrested in Connection with Explosion at Harvard Medical School

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 14:14:09 -0500

Local and federal authorities are investigating an explosion that occurred at Harvard University’s medical school on 1 November. Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident.

External Theft Incidents Increased 19 Percent in 2024, Retail Report Finds

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 11:37:11 -0500

Nearly all respondents to a National Retail Federation survey said that violence-related theft has required them to increase employee workplace violence training, and 48 percent said that workplace violence has required them to implement measures that negatively affect the customer experience.

It’s a Strange Holiday, Which Makes for Some Strange Security Stories

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 12:11:02 -0400

Enjoy this special, Halloween-themed edition of Strange Security.

CISOs: Internal Conflicts Cause More Chaos Than Cyberattacks

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 12:04:52 -0400

Roughly 70 percent of U.S. senior cybersecurity leaders said internal conflicts during a crisis cause more problems than the cyberattack itself.

Militants in Mali Block Fuel Imports, Squeezing Fragile Economy

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 11:26:39 -0400

The blockade by al Qaeda-linked militants has left hundreds of fuel trucks stranded at the border, with some burned and destroyed.

Historic Category 5 Hurricane Melissa Making Landfall in Jamaica

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 12:35:07 -0400

Category 5 Hurricane Melissa began making landfall onto Jamaica, with residents bracing for 185 mph winds and massive flooding.

Geopolitical Headwinds Influence the Future of Work

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 13:57:10 -0400

There was a brief moment when it looked like the lure and promise of remote work—by choice at an individual level or as a corporate philosophy to save money or employ diverse talent—would be a new business reality. However a new article from Fast Company identified geopolitical forces that are shaping, or even blocking, that reality.

Museum Security Community Reckons with Louvre Theft Aftermath

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 14:17:18 -0400

The French authorities continue to search for the thieves responsible for Sunday’s Louvre heist as the museum security community reckons with the aftermath of a simple, yet stunningly effective, breach of security.

Guarding Companies Face the Challenge of High Turnover

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 12:32:20 -0400

New research highlights ways--in addition to wages--that security services firms use to combat high turnover rates.

With AI News Summaries, Verify Then Trust

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 10:39:55 -0400

New research from the European Broadcasting Union found that AI assistants routinely misrepresent news content, regardless of the language, territory, or AI platform in question.

Measles Outbreaks in the United States Hit Highest Point in Decades

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 13:33:20 -0400

Measles infections in the United States have reached a record-high since the disease was eradicated in 2000. The latest outbreak continues in bordering parts of Arizona and Utah.

Brazen Thieves Steal Priceless Jewels in Louvre Raid

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 12:39:17 -0400

In a lightning-fast heist, a four-person crew stole eight priceless, historical pieces of jewelry from the Louvre in Paris, France, before making off in broad daylight.

U.S. Cities Prepare for Major No Kings Demonstrations on Saturday

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 12:56:03 -0400

Cities and towns across the United States are preparing for the prospect of large demonstrations on Saturday protesting authoritarianism.

Outrage Over Cambodian Scam Centers Grows, Prompting Action from Global Leaders

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 15:22:43 -0400

The death of a South Korean student reportedly trafficked and forced to work in a Cambodian scam center prompted talks between South Korean and Cambodian officials. Meanwhile, the U.S. and UK announced sanctions against a multinational network associated with trafficking workers for the online scam centers.

Gen Z Protests Upend Parts of Africa, Signal Potential Wider Upheaval

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 11:34:26 -0400

While conditions change from country to country, the spark for a series of Gen Z protests is the same: stagnant prospects for young people, widening inequality, and an easy window into the lives of the elite and privileged through social media.

New California Laws Increase Protections and Insurability Against Wildfires

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 13:41:17 -0400

California enacted new laws that expand relief and protections for homeowners in Los Angeles-area communities still impacted by severe wildfires.

Judge Temporarily Bars Trump Administration From Deploying National Guard in Illinois

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 11:35:53 -0400

A U.S. federal judge temporarily restrained the Trump administration from further deploying National Guard troops in Chicago over the governor’s objection.

Germany Signals Its Dissent of EU’s Proposed Digital Monitoring Law

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 13:42:32 -0400

Earlier this week, trade press reported that Germany might swing in favor of European Union legislation designed to give law enforcement access to encrypted application data on personal devices. However, the German federal minister of justice appeared to close that door.

Texting Scam Attempts Increased 50 Percent This Year

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 10:54:32 -0400

Thirty percent of Americans who encountered a digital scam in the past year said it started with a text or messaging app, up from 20 percent the year before, according to a new report.

Guy Fieri and Sammy Hagar Learn About Double Brokering Fraud the Hard Way

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 13:12:13 -0400

A shell trucking company setup by organized criminals stole a million dollars of Santo Tequila, the label founded by Guy Fieri and Sammy Hagar.

43 Percent of Workers Plug Sensitive Work Information into AI Tools

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 11:51:47 -0400

Nearly two-thirds of the 6,500 individuals polled for a new report said they now use artificial intelligence (AI) tools—a 21 percent jump from last year. The rapid growth presents security challenges.

Strange Security Is Back with Cheaters, Impersonators, and Florida Men

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 08:22:04 -0400

Our editors bring you the strangest stories from the realm of security-related news each month.

Trump Instructs Administration to Investigate Funders of Left-Wing Political Violence

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 13:09:40 -0400

U.S. President Donald Trump directed his administration on Thursday to investigate organizations and individuals that fund what he claims is a pattern of left-wing political violence in America.

New Research Provides Benchmarks in Executive Protection

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 13:17:15 -0400

On the heels of releasing an Executive Protection Standard, ASIS published a research study benchmarking executive protection practices—The Executive Threat Environment: Benchmarking Research on Risk-Based Approaches to Executive Protection.

How to Put Security Research to Work for Better Risk Management

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 05:00:10 -0400

In a survey of more than 2,300 senior security executives across 31 countries, Allied Universal’s new 2025 World Security Report summarized the challenging and competitive environment security now faces.

Isn't It Ironic: Scammers Fake FBI Website For Reporting Cyber Crimes

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 11:48:21 -0400

The FBI published a warning on 19 September alerting the public that its website for reporting cybercrimes has been spoofed.

War Risk Insurance Market Grows Amid Global Volatility

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 11:13:58 -0400

Increased armed conflicts, geopolitical uncertainty, and heightened civil instability are markedly boosting the war risk insurance market as organizations and individuals seek to transfer some of their financial risk related to conflict.

European Commission Releases Sanctions that Propose Complete Ban of Russian LNG Imports

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 10:16:19 -0400

The European Commission is seeking to completely ban Russian liquified natural gas (LNG) imports as part of a new round of sanctions announced on Friday.

Italy Becomes the First EU Member to Pass Thorough Legislation on AI Use

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 12:22:17 -0400

The Italian parliament approved a new law that establishes comprehensive regulations on the use of artificial intelligence, emphasizing keeping a human hand at the wheel.

What Do Business Travelers Want? More Security Guidance

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 11:02:48 -0400

More than two-thirds of the 2,000 business travelers surveyed for a new World Travel Protection report said they would decline trips if safety were not prioritized.

Research: Security Needs to Bust the Silos

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 12:00:08 -0400

A new report from the Clarity Factory names silos as one of the top obstacles security leaders face, and discusses how the obstacle can be overcome.

Perceived Political Violence Risks Push Factions Toward Preemptive Retaliation, Researchers Warn

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 12:26:07 -0400

Is America at a turning point or a flashpoint when it comes to political violence? Political scientists seem at odds when evaluating the current situation following the murder of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk.

Authorities Arrest Suspect in Death of Charlie Kirk

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 13:20:05 -0400

Police arrested a suspect in the killing of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk on Thursday evening, roughly 33 hours after the initial incident.

Hoax Threats Target HBCUs, Causing Disruption on Campuses Across United States

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 12:27:14 -0400

At least six historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) locked down their campuses, ordered students to shelter in place, or canceled classes Thursday after receiving threats of violence.

Charlie Kirk Assassination Emphasizes Danger of Roiling Political Anger

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 13:02:25 -0400

Experts discuss the risks presented by escalating political violence in the United States and what it means for protective teams and university security.

Police Arrest Hundreds During French ‘Block Everything’ Protests

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 11:55:30 -0400

Tens of thousands of demonstrators gathered for largely peaceful protests across France, including in Lyon, Marseille, and Montpellier. But some demonstrations became disruptive and tense.

Nepal Experiences Deadly Protests Over Social Media Ban and Corruption

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 13:18:20 -0400

Mass protests throughout Nepal resulted in at least 19 deaths and the nation’s prime minister announcing his resignation.

Mexico Announces Crackdown on Fuel Theft and Smuggling

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 12:09:26 -0400

Fuel theft—known as huachicol—is a major problem in Mexico, and it has cost the state-owned oil company Pemex $3.8 billion in five years.

D.C. Attorney General Sues to End National Guard Troops’ Policing Role

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 12:23:46 -0400

Washington, D.C. Attorney General Brian L. Schwalb filed a lawsuit to end the Trump administration’s use of the National Guard for law enforcement purposes in the District.

AI’s Potential as a Natural Disaster Preparedness Tool

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 11:57:05 -0400

A RAND commentary examined the potential uses—and pitfalls—of using AI in natural disaster preparedness and response.

DHS Should Improve Metrics Around Fentanyl Countertrafficking Measure Effectiveness, GAO Report Says

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 10:34:43 -0400

In 2024, fentanyl-linked overdose deaths reached around 48,000 in the United States—accounting for 60 percent of the nation’s overdose deaths, the GAO noted.

Credit Reporting Agency TransUnion Data Breach Exposes More Than 4.4 Million Americans’ Sensitive Information

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 12:32:16 -0400

TransUnion disclosed that a recent hack involving a third party resulted in the exposure of more than 4.4 million people’s highly sensitive data.

The Lure of Labubu: Why These Creepy Critters are Capturing the Hearts of Consumers, Criminals, and Counterfeiters

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 09:39:08 -0400

They’re cute. They’re creepy. And they’re probably clipped on a bag of an influencer near you. But what exactly makes Labubus such a draw for consumers, thieves, and counterfeiters alike?

Cyber Crime at Scale: Report Details How Large Language Models Aid Criminals

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 12:19:57 -0400

Anthropic, the company behind the large language model (LLM) Claude, released a report detailing 10 case studies of how people have used the artificial intelligence platform with criminal intent.

Shooter Attacks Catholic Church and School in Minneapolis

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 13:24:02 -0400

A shooter armed with a rifle, shotgun, and pistol fired dozens of bullets through the church windows toward children and other worshippers sitting in the pews at morning Mass on Wednesday.

Employees Are ‘Quiet Cracking’ Under Workplace Pressure

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 12:36:27 -0400

Quiet cracking is a persistent feeling of workplace unhappiness that leads to disengagement, poor performance, and an increased desire to quit.

Do You Work in a Power Outage Hot Spot?

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 12:40:58 -0400

An assessment of 10 years of U.S. power outages found a 20 percent increase in the rate of outages in both frequency and duration after 2019.

Texas Legislators Advance First Wave of Reforms for Camp Flood Preparedness

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 12:17:44 -0400

Measures in the bills include more training for first responders, increased communication between rescue agencies, stricter penalties for disaster relief fraud, and greater preparedness at summer youth camps.

Fake Active Assailant Swatting Hoaxes Hit Universities

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 11:25:34 -0400

Millions of college students returned to campus this week in the United States, but the semester started with panic at multiple universities after active assailant hoaxes.

South African Parliament Members Attacked in Their Vehicle

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 11:35:55 -0400

Assailants smashed car windows with bricks as a car with three members of South Africa’s parliament idled at an intersection in Cape Town.

Most Adults in 25 Countries Say Spread of False Information is a Top National Threat

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 11:29:58 -0400

Adults in 25 countries consider the economy, terrorism, and the spread of false information online to be the major threats the world faces today, according to a new survey published Wednesday.

New Zealand Military Court Accepts Soldier's Guilty Pleas on Espionage

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 12:35:44 -0400

A New Zealand soldier is the nation’s first person to plea guilty to attempted espionage. The soldier said he tried to pass military access and information to a foreign entity.

Protests Erupt in Israel Over the Weekend

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 11:52:32 -0400

Largely peaceful, protestors called for the government to facilitate the return of the remaining hostages in Gaza by ending the war.

Violence-as-a-Service Providers Increasingly Recruit Minors to Carry Out Harmful Acts

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 11:03:38 -0400

Young adults without a criminal record are being recruited to cause harm as part of the violence-as-a-service process. Europol released analysis about the chain of criminal roles involved in violence-as-a-service and details on where minors fit into the process.

Canada’s Guide on Biometric Management Is a Useful Resource for All Corporate Security Directors

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 13:39:06 -0400

Canada released guidance clarifying how to comply with PIPEDA in the management and use of biometric information for businesses and government agencies. While clearly good resources for Canada-based institutions, they are excellent resource for organizations worldwide.

You’re Not My Real Boss! Workers Balk at AI Agent Managers

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 12:07:36 -0400

Although 75 percent of the 3,000 business leaders surveyed for a new report said they were comfortable working alongside AI agents, only 30 percent said they would feel comfortable taking orders from one.

What You Need to Know About Trump Federalizing DC’s Police Force

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 15:52:15 -0400

U.S. President Donald Trump declared that Washington, DC, is in the grips of a crime emergency. Here’s what his order to federalize the district's police force means.

Significant Wildfires Spread in Colorado, California, and Canada

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 11:36:14 -0400

This year, wildfire conditions are exacerbated by large areas of severe drought in swaths of northwest Canada and more than 30 percent of the United States.

Latest Disclosure of Camera System Vulnerability Shows Evolution in Security Manufacturer’s Relationship with Researchers

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 11:42:29 -0400

A security researcher alerted Axis Communications to four vulnerabilities in its products, prompting an immediate review and patch. The process shows how the disclosure process has evolved significantly in the past decade.

Shooting at U.S. Military Base in Georgia Injures Five

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 12:03:36 -0400

A U.S. soldier allegedly opened fire in the office he worked in at Fort Stewart in Georgia. Five were injured, and the assailant was quickly subdued.

1.8 Billion Credentials Stolen in the First Half of 2025—an 800% Increase

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 13:30:55 -0400

Stealing someone’s information in a data breach and with the increasingly popular infostealer is sometimes just the start of multi-stage cyberattack.

Five Days In: Suspected Montana Mass Shooter Still At Large

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 13:14:50 -0400

State law enforcement continues the manhunt for a suspect in the deaths of four people at a Montana bar. Authorities are searching for him in the rugged and mountainous terrain of the state’s largest national forest.

Gore, Propaganda, and Radicalization Overlap in Extremely Accessible Sites, Researchers Find

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 11:54:06 -0400

Gore-related websites enable the hosting and sharing of illegal videos, primarily featuring extreme violence and graphic content. That includes content produced by terrorist entities.

That’s Strange: This Organized Crime Ring Could Be Serious

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 11:39:23 -0400

Macaques in Bali steal items, not just with impunity, but for reward. Does this presage a threat to humanity?

St. Paul Unplugs After Major Cyberattack

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 11:22:43 -0400

The city of St. Paul, Minnesota, shut down its government IT systems on 28 July to isolate key infrastructure from potential damage after a major cyberattack targeted essential systems and digital services.

Global Data Breach Costs Drop But Lack of AI Risk Mitigation Poses Problems, IBM Report Finds

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 12:22:31 -0400

The global average cost of a data breach dropped to $4.4 million for much of the world but rose to $10.2 million in the United States in 2025, according to new research from IBM published Wednesday.

Active Assailants: Midtown Manhattan Shooter and Other Incidents

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 12:43:32 -0400

A Nevada man allegedly targeted the Manhattan offices of the NFL, indiscriminately shooting employees in the shared building, killing four before taking his own life.

Popular, Profitable, and False: Misinformation During Disasters

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 12:17:15 -0400

Popular social media platforms’ algorithms often amplify mis- and disinformation during natural disasters, which can sideline life-saving information, according to a new report.

Tens of Thousands Flee Thailand-Cambodia Border as Fighting Intensifies in the Region

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 11:28:01 -0400

Tens of thousands of people fled their homes near the Thailand and Cambodia border as fighting between the two nations intensified Friday morning.

Converging Risks Lead to Increased EP Spending and Perks

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 12:23:06 -0400

A study by executive consulting firm Equilar found an increase in personal security-related CEO expenses increased by 94.7 percent at large companies in the last four years.

Survey: Workplace Safety Concerns Influencing Turnover in U.S. Healthcare

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 11:00:25 -0400

Nearly 20 percent of healthcare workers said they have considered leaving their positions because of safety concerns, and almost half are likely to leave within the next 12 months if safety issues persist, a recent survey found.

5 Principles to Develop Effective Online Policing

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 13:20:18 -0400

Many people consider the Internet a Wild West of cybercriminals. A new paper from Europol examines how law enforcement teams can counter that perception by taking community policing online.

Despite Increased Screening Rates, Mental Health Services Remain Challenging for K-12 Schools

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 10:54:11 -0400

Forty percent of principals surveyed for a new study said it was hard to ensure that students receive appropriate care, while 38 percent said it was relatively easy.

Most Organizations Fail to Incorporate Security in Operational Resilience Planning. New Research Seeks to Change That

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 13:47:44 -0400

Security practitioners contribute essential capabilities towards operational resilience. But most security teams are not well integrated into broader resilience planning, according to new analysis published Thursday by the ASIS International Foundation.

Iraqi Mall Fire Leaves At Least 61 Dead

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 12:48:35 -0400

A fire in an Iraqi shopping center leaves at least 61 dead, with local officials claiming it could have been preventable if not for shortcuts.

Global Catastrophic Malware Attack Would Be Shocking, Not Impossible, Study Suggests

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 11:55:54 -0400

One year after a global IT outage hampered travel, healthcare, banks, and more, a report from CyberCube and Munich Re examines the systemic cyber risks that could dramatically affect worldwide infrastructure.

3 African Democracies Struggle with Unrest, Corruption

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 15:08:11 -0400

With widespread, deadly protests on 7 July, Kenya is one of several African states struggling with antigovernment movements.

Check Your Privacy Settings: Bodyguards’ Fitness Apps Used to Track Swedish Leaders’ Travel, Private Residences

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 09:59:32 -0400

Fitness trackers and workout apps can inadvertently put security teams’ principals at risk.

EU Commission Releases Security Requirements for Advanced General-Purpose AI Providers

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 11:43:00 -0400

The European Commission released new requirements and security mandates on Thursday for general-purpose artificial intelligence (AI) providers that make their models available in the bloc.

UK Authorities Arrest Four in Connection to Retailer Cyberattacks

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 11:52:27 -0400

The unnamed suspects were arrested on suspicion on blackmail, money laundering, violating the Computer Misuse Act, and participating in an organized criminal group.

Impersonator Used AI to Mimic U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's Voice in Calls to Officials

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 12:02:05 -0400

A yet-unidentified person or group impersonated U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, using artificial intelligence to mimic his voice when contacting at least five high-ranking government officials.

Gangs in Peru Extort Schools with Threats of Violence

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 11:25:22 -0400

Gangs in Peru are extorting private schools, demanding money under the threat of killing students, parents, and administrators—and the threats are real in a country where violence has surged.

Flash Floods in Texas Destroy Summer Camps and Campgrounds, Killing More Than 80 People

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 10:39:34 -0400

Central Texas communities are and searching through miles of debris for missing people after devastating flash flooding along the Guadalupe River swept across campgrounds and children’s summer camps.

Extreme Heat Persists in Europe

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 13:54:29 -0400

Extreme and deadly high temperatures continue to smother much of Europe, with at least six reported deaths linked to the heat or wildfires.

NASA Needs to Refine Agencywide Cyber Risk Management Strategy, GAO Finds

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 12:07:17 -0400

Although NASA completed at least some core cybersecurity tasks in its projects, it had skipped a few critical ones, including an agencywide risk assessment to help the agency prioritize cyber threats and mitigate the highest risks.

Shining a Spotlight on Cultural Properties (Strange) Security

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 10:15:39 -0400

Our editors bring you the strangest stories from the realm of security-related news each month.

Man Sets Forest Fire, Shoots at Firefighters When They Arrive

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 12:18:25 -0400

On 29 June, authorities said they believe a man intentionally started a forest fire, then shot at first responders on Canfield Mountain, which is just outside Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, near the border with Washington state. Two firefighters died and a third was seriously wounded.

Lawsuit Claims Tennessee Law Banning 'Sheltering' Undocumented People is Unconstitutional

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 08:56:12 -0400

Nashville church officials, with support from legal and immigrant advocacy groups, filed a class action suit challenging a new state law that classifying people or groups “harboring” undocumented immigrants as human traffickers.

One-Third of People Arrested for Terror-Related Offenses in the EU Were Less Than 20 Years Old

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 10:13:25 -0400

Nearly one in three suspects arrested for terrorism-related offenses in the European Union in 2024 was a minor or a young adult, according to an annual report published Tuesday.

Texas Bans Red-Flag Laws

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 09:12:59 -0400

Texas lawmakers officially passed a law preemptively barring the U.S. state from enforcing or adopting most kinds of extreme risk protective orders (ERPOs).

Planning and Quick Action Prevent Tragedy at Michigan Church

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 14:30:05 -0400

An alert church member and the church’s security personnel stopped an assailant armed with an assault rifle and handgun from entering Sunday services.

Scattered Spider Cyber Criminals Turn to Insurance Companies as Next Targets

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 12:08:10 -0400

U.S. supplemental insurance vendor Aflac disclosed that it experienced a cyberattack earlier this month that potentially affected the company’s data.

Pennsylvania Judge Vacates $10 Million Penalty Against SIG SAUER, But Allows Jury Ruling of Firearm Defect to Stand

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 13:17:24 -0400

A Pennsylvania judge vacated a $10 million penalty against a firearm manufacturer stemming from a case alleging one of its pistols discharged without the trigger being pulled.

New York’s RAISE Act Would Require Security Protocols from Leading AI Developers

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 11:39:30 -0400

If signed into law, the RAISE Act's requirements would only apply to AI companies that have spent more than $100 million in computational resources to train advanced AI models.

Overtourism Causes Unrest Across Europe

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 13:45:38 -0400

People in Spain, Italy, Portugal, France, and other European countries gathered to protest the negative effects that massive numbers of tourists have on their cities.

Suspect Arrested for Attack on Minnesota State Legislators

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 11:49:05 -0400

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz said the shooting “appears to be a politically motivated assassination,” but the exact motive remains unclear.

Judge Rules Trump Acted Illegally in Federalizing California’s National Guard, But Appeals Court Stays Order

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 10:52:52 -0400

A U.S. appeals court temporarily halted a judicial order that would have forced U.S. President Donald Trump to return control of California’s National Guard to its governor.

Security LeadHER 2025: Add S.P.I.C.E. to Your Career Success Equation

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 10:29:42 -0400

Authenticity at work means living and leading in alignment to your beliefs. Over time, that enables coworkers and executives to understand how and why you make decisions, said Shayla Atkins at Security LeadHER 2025.

19 Bombings and Shootings in Colombia Leave 7 Dead, More Injured

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 12:15:36 -0400

A series of coordinated bombings and shootings in the southwestern region of Colombia left at least seven people dead and wounded around 50. The attacks come on the heels of an attempted assassination against a senator and presidential candidate.

Tragedy Strikes Austrian School

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 13:08:13 -0400

Though relatively rare in Europe compared to the United States, two tragic school violence incidents lead to fatalities in Europe on 10 June.

LA Protests Lead to Federal Deployment of National Guard

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 14:06:56 -0400

Protests that began Friday, 6 June, after ICE officers detained suspected illegal immigrants in several crackdowns around Los Angeles escalated quickly over the weekend leading U.S. President Trump to take control of, and deploy, the California National Guard.

Trump Issues Travel Ban for 12 Countries’ Citizens, Citing National Security Concerns

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 09:34:07 -0400

U.S. President Donald Trump banned citizens of 12 countries from entering the United States and imposed travel restrictions on seven others, citing national security concerns.

U.S. Active Shooter Incidents Decreased in 2024

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 13:19:41 -0400

In a recent report, the FBI found that there were 24 active shooter incidents in 2024, a 50 percent decrease from 2023 and suggestive of a downward trend in this type of violent attacks.

Women's Workplace Abuse Complaints are Discounted More Than Men's, Researchers Find

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 10:10:59 -0400

Researchers found that in situations without clear corroborating evidence, third parties are less likely to take corrective action when women make reports of workplace abuse compared to men.

Attack on Small Group of Marchers Renews Attention on Anti-Semitism in U.S.

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 13:38:39 -0400

On Sunday, 1 June in Boulder, Colorado, eyewitness accounts and personal video recordings detail a man with homemade incendiary devices and a makeshift flamethrower device attacking a group of people gathered to express support for Israeli hostages still in captivity in Gaza.

Animals in the Wrong Places and Doing Things They Shouldn’t Do

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 13:17:56 -0400

Our editors bring you the strangest stories from the realm of security-related news each month.

Cryptocurrency Investors Up Personal Security Measures After Series of Violent Kidnappings Targeting Their Peers

Fri, 30 May 2025 11:10:17 -0400

Cryptocurrency investors are reassessing their security posture after a string of kidnappings targeting their peers during the past six months.

Facial Recognition Technology in the Crosshairs

Thu, 29 May 2025 13:22:30 -0400

As the public-private partnership comes under scrutiny, the New Orleans Police Department has suspended its partnership with Project NOLA, which was sending the department real-time facial recognition alerts.

How Preventable is Employee Turnover?

Wed, 28 May 2025 11:49:51 -0400

Employee turnover isn’t inevitable; it continues to be driven by preventable reasons that organizations can address, especially career development.

Amid Stronger Storms, Resilient Construction Programs Pay Off in Alabama

Tue, 27 May 2025 11:32:32 -0400

In the face of strengthening hurricanes, tropical storms, and other coastal extreme weather, some U.S. states are adding incentives for weather-resilient construction.

Joint Advisory Warns of Russian Campaign to Hack into Private Companies’ IP Cameras

Fri, 23 May 2025 10:35:20 -0400

More than 20 international agencies issued a joint cybersecurity advisory this week, warning of a Russian state-sponsored campaign that hacked into IP cameras of Western logistic and technology companies.

DC Shooting Leaves 2 Israeli Embassy Staffers Dead

Thu, 22 May 2025 12:33:29 -0400

An American woman and Israeli man who both worked at the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C., were shot and killed on the evening of 21 May.

DOGE Danger: U.S. Adversaries Lineup to Recruit Former Government Workers

Wed, 21 May 2025 13:38:12 -0400

A Washington thinktank uncovered what it says is a Chinese intelligence operation to surreptitiously recruit U.S. government officials who recently left their jobs—just one example of a growing concern.

High-Profile Targeted Killings Raise Concerns in Jalisco

Tue, 20 May 2025 12:33:48 -0400

The latest edition of the ACLED's Conflict Index ranks Mexico as the fourth most dangerous country worldwide—after Palestine, Myanmar, and Syria—and the second most dangerous to civilians.

Explosion Rocks California IVF Clinic in Apparent Extremist Attack

Mon, 19 May 2025 10:52:53 -0400

An explosion tore through a southern California fertility clinic on 17 May, and investigators are treating the incident as an act of terrorism.

Hate Amplified: Online Posts About U.S. Judges Take Increasingly Violent Turn

Fri, 16 May 2025 13:35:04 -0400

Online rhetoric about judges in the United States is becoming increasingly violent and justices are expressing concerns about their personal safety.

The Future of Work: 3 Reports Assess In-Office and Telework Effects

Thu, 15 May 2025 08:52:50 -0400

Three recent studies highlight some of the benefits and drawbacks when it comes to telework setups, including employee retention, recruitment, and maintaining workplace culture.

U.S. Employers Mull Changes in Business Landscape Under Trump Administration

Wed, 14 May 2025 09:51:00 -0400

Top concerns in today's business climate include diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and immigration, with 84 and 75 percent of survey respondents expecting significant impacts in those areas respectively.

Report: FBI to Spend Less Time on White Collar Crime, More Time on Immigration Enforcement

Tue, 13 May 2025 11:26:29 -0400

The report from Reuters said the guidance was given to FBI field agents and comes after the head of the DOJ Criminal Division outlined changes to how the department will approach white collar crime.

Research: U.S. Illicit Opioid Use Is 20 Times Higher Than Previous Estimates

Mon, 12 May 2025 12:46:00 -0400

More than one in 10 American adults (11 percent) reported illicit opioid use within the past 12 months, and 7.5 percent reported the use of illicitly produced fentanyl during the same period, according to a new report from RAND.

Researchers: More Accessible Deepfake Generators Fuel Rapid Increase in AI Explicit Images

Fri, 09 May 2025 07:16:40 -0400

Detailed analysis found that 96 percent of the deepfake models targeted identifiable women, including globally recognized celebrities as well as social media users with smaller followings.

Operation PowerOFF Results in Four Arrests

Thu, 08 May 2025 14:13:01 -0400

Polish authorities arrested four people who were allegedly involved in running and selling access to a network of platforms that provided distributed denial of service (DDoS) cyberattacks.

Conclave: A Look at Security Around the Secretive Election Process

Wed, 07 May 2025 12:39:00 -0400

The cardinals have gathered. The windows are closed. The doors are sealed. And a conclave in Vatican City is once again underway to elect a new pope amidst rising geopolitical tensions.

Copper Thieves Strike Again. And Again and Again.

Tue, 06 May 2025 13:18:38 -0400

This time, the thieves shutdown rail traffic in Spain by yanking out copper signaling cable. With the price of precious metals rising, the problem will likely continue to worsen.

Police Foil Alleged Bomb Plot Against Lady Gaga Concert in Rio

Mon, 05 May 2025 10:13:15 -0400

A massive, free Lady Gaga concert was allegedly threatened by a plot to attack attendees using improvised explosives, Brazilian authorities said.

Recruitment Red Flags: Spotting DPRK IT Remote Workers

Fri, 02 May 2025 09:02:34 -0400

The FBI and private sector security partners briefed the cybersecurity community this week about the persistent problem of remote IT workers from North Korea generating revenue for the regime in the form of paychecks from private companies.

This Is the Best Selection of Strange Security Stories We’ve Ever Seen

Thu, 01 May 2025 12:05:47 -0400

Our editors bring you the strangest stories from the realm of security-related news each month.

Enterprise Executive Protection Spending Spiked in 2024, Still Right-Sizing After Targeted Attack

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 12:44:59 -0400

At least a dozen S&P 500 companies flagged an increase in security risks in their 2025 proxy statements, marking an increased spotlight on executive protection concerns and services.

Georgia Enacts Law Designed to Limit Negligent Security Lawsuits

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 15:16:47 -0400

There is no question that part of a sweeping tort reform bill signed into law by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp on 21 April will make it harder for injured parties to plead a successful civil case of security negligence against a business or property owner. But will the new law have a positive impact on security?

Ramming Incident Shatters Vancouver Celebration

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 14:50:16 -0400

In latest multicasualty vehicle ramming incident, a man drove an SUV into a crowd at a Filipino heritage festival in Vancouver, Canada on 26 April, killing 11 people and injuring dozens.

Verizon 2025 DBIR: Third-Party Involvement in Confirmed Security Breaches Doubled

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 09:55:41 -0400

https://www.asisonline.org/security-management-magazine/latest-news/today-in-security/2025/april/verizon-dbir-2025/

Who’s Feeling the Strain in Global Workplaces Today? Managers

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 09:47:05 -0400

Managers surveyed for a new Gallup report noted that they feel stuck between trying to support and motivate their teams while meeting executives’ mandates.

El Paso Gunman Sentenced to Life in Prison, Closing the Case

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 08:17:29 -0400

The assailant, who was 21 years old at the time of the attack, accepted a plea deal to avoid the death penalty in the Texas state court case.

Private Security Officers Charged After Unruly Town Hall Incident

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 13:57:38 -0400

Prosecutors from the city of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, filed criminal charges against five people associated with a private security firm stemming from incidents at a 22 February legislative town hall meeting where a protester was forcibly removed.

How Widespread are Scams? We Don’t Know

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 10:50:10 -0400

Should the U.S. government adopt a more unified approach to countering scams? A recent report from the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) suggests so.

Authorities Arrest Son of Sheriff’s Deputy After Shooting at FSU Campus

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 12:34:35 -0400

The son of a local sheriff’s deputy allegedly opened fire on Florida State University’s campus Thursday, killing two people and injuring six others before being taken into custody.

Trump Administration Shuts Down U.S. Office Tracking and Reporting Foreign Disinformation

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 12:04:36 -0400

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the closure of the Counter Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference office (R/FIMI), which counters foreign disinformation campaigns.

Device Searches and Security at the Center of New U.S.-Bound Traveler Advice

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 11:20:48 -0400

Business and government travelers are particularly cautious right now about the risk to sensitive information at border crossings into the United States.

Who is Most Susceptible to False or Misleading News?

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 14:31:33 -0400

Researchers analyzed findings from Cambridge University’s Misinformation Susceptibility Test, identifying the demographics of people most likely to fall for false or misleading headlines.

Intruder Sets Fire to Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 12:18:23 -0400

The Pennsylvania governor’s mansion was severely damaged early 13 April after a man scaled a 7-foot-high iron security fence, eluded police, and set a fire in the home.

Trump Administration Disbands DOJ Team Working on Crypto Crimes

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 13:06:36 -0400

The Trump administration ordered the dissolution of a Justice Department team dedicated to targeting cryptocurrency crimes.

Nightclub Collapse in Santo Domingo Leaves at Least 184 Dead

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 13:00:56 -0400

Hundreds of people were trapped on Tuesday morning at popular Dominican nightclub Jet Set when the roof collapsed during a performance. At least 184 deaths have been reported, and rescue efforts became recovery efforts by Wednesday.

East Harlem Gang War Raises Concerns about NYC Youth Violence

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 09:51:02 -0400

A six-month gang war in East Harlem, New York City, accounts for 21 shootings—half of the shootings recorded in the single police precinct, according to new indictments.

The Art and Science of Bypassing Biometric Screening

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 14:44:11 -0400

Europol Innovation Lab just released a 60-page report examining how criminals, terrorists, spies, and other bad actors are developing ways to fool biometric screening techniques thought to be extremely hard to fool.

Columbia University Adds Campus Peace Officers with Arrest Powers

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 13:29:24 -0400

After major protests on campus last year, Columbia University in New York City has made notable moves to enhance its campus security program, including appointing 36 new special patrol officers with arrest powers.

Will AI Improve Life and Work? Depends Who You Ask

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 13:18:30 -0400

In a far-reaching study of AI by Pew Research, people in the United States express caution or skepticism while AI experts have a more upbeat outlook on the impact AI will have on American life.

Two Emerging Workforce Scams Can Lead to Dire Consequences

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 14:30:30 -0400

In Mexico, cartels use hiring scheme to force people into illegal cartel work while North Korea seeks to infiltrate European and U.S. companies by placing compromised IT workers.

Experts Tell Congress Lack of Tracking Creates Cybersecurity Gaps for Medical Devices

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 11:53:18 -0400

With no well-established process in place to track medical device inventory, patients, operators, and healthcare staff are at risk of being exploited by potential cybersecurity gaps.

Long Live the Pigs and Other Strange Security Stories

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 10:31:08 -0400

Our editors bring you the strangest stories from the realm of security-related news each month.

Earthquake Rescue and Response Hampered in Myanmar by Infrastructure Damage, Civil War

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 11:44:52 -0400

A 7.7-magnitude earthquake hit central Myanmar in the early afternoon of 28 March, causing widespread destruction to buildings and infrastructure.

A Rising Threat: Using Drones to Conduct Corporate Espionage

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 11:41:08 -0400

A new threat assessment identifies a growing threat of drones being used to carry out corporate espionage and other malicious activities targeting the private sector.

Trump Administration Pulls Plug on Domestic Terrorism Tracking and Analysis Project

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 15:09:00 -0400

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security pulled its $3 million funding of the Terrorism and Targeted Violence in the United States project, saying it no longer aligned with DHS priorities.

UK Crime Agency Warns about Rise of Abusive and Manipulative Com Networks

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 11:09:02 -0400

Participants in Com networks collaborate or compete to cause harm both on and offline, including criminal actions related to cyber, fraud, extremism, serious violence, and child sexual abuse.

Abe Assassination Leads to Japanese Court Dissolving Unification Church

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 14:12:17 -0400

The Japanese Court ruling against the Unification Church highlights the often complicated subtexts that accompany violent acts such as assassinations.

Protests Erupt Across Turkey After Istanbul Mayor Arrested

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 11:47:38 -0400

More than 1,100 people have been detained so far in five days of protests in Turkey that erupted after the arrest of Istanbul mayor Ekrem Imamoglu.

Major Fire at London Substation Cuts Power to Heathrow Airport, Disrupting Travel

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 13:14:26 -0400

A major fire in London cut the power to Heathrow Airport on Friday, disrupting flights and travel plans for thousands of people. Counterterrorism experts are leading the investigation into the origin of the blaze.

Police Arrest Suspect in Michigan Hospital Garage Shooting

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 11:54:03 -0400

Police report that they have a suspect in custody following a shooting at a parking garage for a Michigan hospital.

3.2 Billion Credentials Compromised in 2024 as Cybercriminals Adopt More Infostealers

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 12:27:53 -0400

Infostealers are the primary threat vector for credential compromise—75 percent of 2024’s stolen credentials were sourced from information-stealing malware, according to Flashpoint's annual threat intelligence report.

Bollywood Movie Sparks Unrest in Nagpur, India

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 11:39:26 -0400

The movie release shows it does not take much to inflame tensions between Hindus and Muslims in India.

Fire in North Macedonian Improvised Nightclub Sparks Investigation into Corruption and Safety Measures

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 11:02:06 -0400

In a chaotic scene Sunday morning, a massive fire at an overcrowded nightclub in North Macedonia killed 59 people and injured 155 others.

Five Year Reflections: What Americans Think About the COVID-19 Pandemic Response

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 14:23:54 -0400

A recent survey of nearly 10,000 Americans reveals a public divided on public health, government response efforts, and future pandemic prevention measures. But there is common ground on remote work trends and trust in local healthcare systems.

NTSB Calls for Urgent Safety Restrictions on Helicopters Around Reagan Airport

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 13:56:21 -0400

The National Transportation Safety Board is recommending that helicopters should be forbidden from part of the Potomac River while planes land at the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

Retail Cybercriminals Turn to Credential Harvesting

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 11:29:20 -0400

Retail cybercriminals are shopping for credentials more than credit card details these days, according to a new report from human risk management cybersecurity company KnowBe4.

Protests Target Tesla Showing How Brands Can Be Focus of Political Ire

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 12:09:45 -0400

Accompanying Elon Musk’s high-profile role in the Trump administration is a backlash against the company on which he built his fortune.

Violence for the Sake of Violence: Understanding Nonideological Extremism

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 12:58:49 -0400

Two recent school shootings in the United States highlight the growing—and often misunderstood—trend of nonideological terrorism.

Don’t Return to Sender: Scammers Target Corporate Execs with Ransom Letters

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 11:17:02 -0500

Scammers are sending extortion letters to corporate executives, threatening to release sensitive information unless a ransom is paid, according to a new FBI warning published this week.

South Korean Village Accidentally Bombed During Joint Military Exercise

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 11:21:32 -0500

During a joint live-fire exercise with the U.S. military on 6 March, South Korean fighter jets mistakenly bombed the village of Nogok, which resulted in injuries to 15 people.

Terrorism Trends Fueled by Sahel Conflicts, Western Lone Actor Attacks

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 11:35:01 -0500

Between four major terrorist groups and a wave of lone actor attacks, terrorism continues to persist and spread, reversing nearly a decade of improvements documented by the Institute for Economics and Peace.

The Wild West Returns: Train Cargo Theft Is on the Rise

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 11:24:22 -0500

In a modern twist on an 1860s tactic, train burglaries are on the rise. Organized thieves have stolen $2 million worth of sneakers in the last year alone.

Vishing is Calling. Don’t Answer.

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 10:44:53 -0500

Vishing—also known as voice phishing—is a type of social engineering attack where scammers use phone calls to trick victims into revealing information.

Short Month Has No Shortage of Strange Security Stories

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 08:55:09 -0500

From February we found strange stories highlighting vulnerabilities, unsolved crimes, and proverbial mountain-from-a-molehill story.

Fresh Terrorist Threats and Recent Attacks Prompt Increased Security Around German Carnivals

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 12:40:06 -0500

On 27 February, thousands took to the streets throughout Germany, dressed in costumes to kick off six days of carnivals and festivities. But authorities are keeping a close eye on the parties after picking up on terrorist threats issued by the Islamic State.

American Workers Have Mixed Feelings About AI’s Workplace Potential

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 11:12:57 -0500

Artificial intelligence (AI) applications have proliferated rapidly in the past two years, leading to both excitement and concern about what the technology means for the future of work.

Connecting the Dots: State Actors, Hacktivists, and Critical Infrastructure Attacks in 2024

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 11:47:38 -0500

Researchers observed clear connections in 2024 between state and nonstate actors who are targeting critical infrastructure, according to a new report published Tuesday by cybersecurity firm Dragos.

Police Officer Killed in Active Assailant Incident at Pennsylvania Hospital

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 11:39:20 -0500

A senior law enforcement official told reporters that the attacker was upset over what he perceived as a lack of care for a terminal family member who had been in the hospital’s ICU.

Europol Publishes Framework on Ethical Use of New Technology in Law Enforcement

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 12:22:25 -0500

Europol released a new framework this week to help law enforcement make ethical decisions about incorporating new technologies into the course of its work.

United States Designates 8 Cartels as Terrorist Organizations

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 12:12:53 -0500

The Trump administration designated eight Latin American cartels as terrorist organizations on Thursday, a label normally used for organizations with political goals that are achieved through violence.

Brazil’s Former President Charged for Alleged Coup

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 11:06:06 -0500

The alleged plot included a plan for a small group of elite military agents to poison Bolsonaro’s opponent, current President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and shoot dead Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes.

Momentum Builds for Beginning Peace Talks to End Russia-Ukraine War

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 12:38:29 -0500

European leaders hastily convene a summit while U.S.-Russian diplomats engage in talks hosted by Saudi Arabia, all geared toward finding a pathway to ending the war in Ukraine. Absent from all the meetings: Ukraine.

Looking for Love: What You Need to Know About Romance Scams

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 13:52:14 -0500

Roses are red. Violets are blue. Wherever you are, romance scammers will find you. Here's what you should know to protect both your heart and your finances from fraudsters.

Munich Vehicle Collision Injures at Least 28 People One Day Before Security Conference Begins

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 12:11:40 -0500

A driver plowed a vehicle into a labor union demonstration in Munich, Germany, on Thursday morning, injuring at least 28 people.

Trump Pauses FCPA Investigations and Enforcement for Review

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 11:50:51 -0500

On Monday, U.S. President Donald Trump paused enforcement on the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, claiming that the FCPA creates “an uneven playing field” for U.S. companies operating in countries where bribing officials is a matter of course.

Gaza Ceasefire in Danger of Crumbling

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 10:57:08 -0500

Hamas and Israel accused each other of breaching the ceasefire agreement as U.S. President Trump’s announcements about rebuilding Gaza sowed additional distrust and angst about the future of the region.

How Priorities Work in U.S. K-12 School Safety Grants

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 13:13:23 -0500

Grant themes changed between 2017 and 2024 to prioritize serving specific populations or geographic areas; collaboration, coordination, or partnerships with other organizations; and building capacity for school infrastructure.

Government Security Professionals Grapple with Following Procedure Amid DOGE Demands

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 14:13:08 -0500

The U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)—helmed by businessman Elon Musk—has been busy during the past few weeks, and several of its interactions have created tensions with security practitioners in the federal workforce.

What We Know About Sweden's Deadliest Mass Shooting

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 12:16:30 -0500

During the early afternoon of 4 February, a shooter in Orebro, Sweden, opened fire at an adult education school roughly 125 miles from Stockholm. The incident is the worst mass shooting in Sweden's history.

EP Trends: Residential Risks, Extremist Influencers, Shifting Tactics

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 09:34:33 -0500

There were 462 publicly reported incidents threatening high-profile individuals due to their status in 2024, with an average of 39 incidents per month, according to new data from TorchStone Global.

Supply Chain SaaS Exploited by Increasingly Complex Cybercriminal Organization

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 11:36:24 -0500

Intezer and Solis said XE Group has evolved to include exploiting zero-day vulnerabilities in VeraCore a third-party logistics fulfillment application offered as software-as-a-service (SaaS) by Advantive.

New Orleans Heightens Security for Super Bowl After New Year’s Day Attack

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 12:34:13 -0500

The Super Bowl is one of the most well-secured sports events in the world. But after a deadly terrorist attack on New Year’s Day, New Orleans is taking security even more seriously for the big game.

Fire, ✅. Ice, ✅. Rats, Pigeons, and Coyotes, ✅. It Must Be Strange Security

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 14:10:57 -0500

2025 kicked off with no shortage of security news. But some stories were significantly stranger than others...

Tragedy in the Potomac: What We Know About the Plane Crash Near Washington, D.C.

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 14:04:55 -0500

American Airlines flight 5342 collided with a U.S. Army helicopter near Reagan National Airport just outside Washington, D.C., on Wednesday night. Here's what we know about this breaking news incident.

U.S. Organizations Debate How to Comply to New DEI Guidelines and Restrictions

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 12:31:12 -0500

Many private organizations have been scrambling to interpret and comply with a flurry of executive orders and directives from the new Trump Administration, especially when it comes to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.

Companies, Schools, Houses of Worship, and Hospitals Get Advice for Handling ICE Enforcement Actions

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 14:26:08 -0500

Widespread Immigration Control Enforcement actions have started across the United States as the new administration rescinds orders that largely shielded sensitive areas such as schools, churches, and hospitals.

Rebel Conflict in Congo Escalates with Capture of Goma

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 12:01:00 -0500

The M23 rebel group has taken control of the Congo city of Goma, endangering major pathways for humanitarian and security assistance to enter the region.

Risk Report: Concern that World Leaders Are Unprepared for Political, Economic, and Societal Challenges

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 13:33:13 -0500

Amidst deepening geopolitical tensions, rising geoeconomic confrontation, and a growing sense of societal fragmentation, experts are not optimistic that political and military actors will respond appropriately to the risks before them.

German and Hungarian Authorities Take Down Violent Human Trafficking Ring

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 13:22:15 -0500

After a lengthy investigation, European law enforcement agencies dismantled a criminal network of human traffickers on 15 January 2025.

Vendor Beware: UK Outlines Risks and Consequences of Taking on State Actors as Security Clients

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 11:20:55 -0500

A new guide from the UK Home Office noted that UK security professionals are at risk of being approached by nation-states to conduct activities due to security’s access to valuable information sources.

A Look at Trump’s Day One Actions With Security Implications

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 15:47:51 -0500

U.S. President Donald J. Trump was sworn in for a second term on 20 January, and he got right to work on the issues he campaigned on. Here’s a look at his day one actions and comments with significance to the security community.

Arctic Blast to Hit Continental U.S. This Weekend

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 13:50:58 -0500

Dangerously low temperatures from a powerful Arctic blast are expected to result in most of the United States experiencing some of the coldest temperatures of the past year.

Officials Announce Pending Ceasefire Agreement Between Israel and Hamas

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 13:55:02 -0500

Mediators announced a proposed agreement for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas on Wednesday, but hit a snag as the deal requires approval from the Israeli Cabinet. The multi-phase agreement would pause fighting between the two parties in the Gaza Strip, allow for the release of dozens of hostages, and potentially end all fighting in the region between the two groups.

United States Adds 37 Chinese Companies to Forced Labor List

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 11:40:23 -0500

Some sources estimate that more than one-fifth of the world’s imports might be made using forced labor—when people are exploited through threats, violence, debt bondage, or other means.

Reexamining the Physical Security Failures in Bourbon Street Attack

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 14:11:04 -0500

Scrutiny of the tragic vehicle ramming attack on New Year’s celebration revelers on Bourbon Street in New Orleans continues, and The Washington Post performed a detailed examination of the physical security failures at the scene.

LA County Wildfires Could Be Costliest Fires in U.S. History

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 12:04:44 -0500

The Los Angeles fires ripped through densely populated areas and high-end properties, adding to the economic toll of the disaster.

ATF Analysis of Firearms Trafficking Highlights Rapid Rise of Ghost Guns and U.S. Firearms Used Abroad

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 12:41:49 -0500

Criminals are increasingly making and using privately made firearms and transforming weapons into machineguns to carry out illegal activity in the United States, according to a new volume of the National Firearms Commerce and Trafficking Assessment (NFCTA) released this week.

GDPR-like Legislation in Israel to Take Effect in 2025

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 13:15:58 -0500

Changes to Israel's Privacy Protection Law (IPPL) will take effect this year, significantly altering the nation’s privacy regulations and giving its privacy watchdog broader powers to increase financial penalties on violators.

Los Angeles Area Faces Three Major Wildfires

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 11:15:59 -0500

Record low humidity levels and hurricane-force wind gusts are exacerbating fire conditions in southern California. More than 80,000 residents have been ordered or advised to evacuate at-risk areas.

Nation-States Suspected of Cutting the Cords in Emerging Form of Warfare

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 13:03:45 -0500

Experts say recent incidents off the coast of Taiwan and in the Baltic Sea highlight the rise of nonkinetic tactics in hostilities between nations.

U.S. Sanctions Chinese Cyber Company for Alleged Flax Typhoon Botnet Participation

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 11:34:11 -0500

The United States announced sanctions on Beijing-based cybersecurity company Integrity Technology Group, Inc., for its alleged role in multiple computer intrusion incidents against U.S. victims.

Scrutiny of Vehicle-Ramming Prevention Methods Continues as Bourbon Street Reopens

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 13:00:56 -0500

Bourbon Street in New Orleans reopened on Thursday following a deadly vehicle ramming attack on New Year’s Day that killed 14 people and injured about 30 others.

Neat Partying Teenagers? Honey Fraud? Thelma and Louise Grandmas? What in the World Is Going On?

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 08:48:13 -0500

Security Management editors find some of the strange, security-related stories from December 2024.

Flashback to Your Favorite SM Stories from 2024

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 08:20:28 -0500

We’re living in interesting times, that’s for sure. There was a plethora of security news in 2024, and Security Management dug into much of it.

2024 in Review: Security Management’s Favorite Stories

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 09:04:37 -0500

From security K9s to bank robberies to protective plants, the Security Management staff reflects on our favorite articles from 2024.

Researchers Predict Workplace Violence to Increase for Certain Healthcare Workers by 2032

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 13:37:21 -0500

Recent research from a major think tank estimates that reported workplace injuries will increase by almost 1 percent by 2032, driven by workplace violence and potentially costing employers billions of dollars.

EU Terror Incidents Increased in 2023 as Groups Leveraged Societal Divisions to Recruit New Members

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 12:23:45 -0500

Terrorists completed 98 attacks in the European Union in 2023 and were involved in a total of 120 incidents—marking a significant increase from the 28 attacks logged in 2022, according to an annual assessment released by Europol.

The Skies Appear to be Filled with Drones, And People are Freaking Out

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 12:28:11 -0500

Amid a massive surge of unidentified drone reports—particularly in the Northeast United States—official explanations are thin and speculation runs wild.

ISC2 Survey Highlights Leadership Skill Gaps

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 11:01:45 -0500

Cybersecurity professionals are used to searching for vulnerabilities and then striving to mitigate them. They are applying that analysis to their own leadership skills.

Security Professionals Grapple with Criticism, Board Mandates, and Public Anger in the Wake of Targeted CEO Attack

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 14:13:30 -0500

After the targeted attack that killed UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, security practitioners are reflecting on the incident and recommending steps to increase protection measures for some executives.

NFL and NBA Warn Players to Exercise Caution as Burglaries Continue

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 12:32:26 -0500

With the recent burglary of another professional athlete’s home, the FBI appears to be investigating similar incidents, which began in September 2024.

Are U.S. Workers Satisfied With Their Jobs? Yes and No

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 08:46:40 -0500

Most Americans surveyed for a new Pew Research Center report said they feel good about their job security, but not their pay.

Alleged UnitedHealthcare CEO Assassin Captured: Implications for Security

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 13:07:06 -0500

Police arrested a man suspected of killing the UnitedHealthcare CEO after a tip from a worker at McDonalds in Pennsylvania. From surveillance to motivation to the choice of weapon—as well as executive protection directly—the case has many implications for security.

Amid Diverse and Growing Risks, Organizations Face a Fragmented Landscape

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 12:06:16 -0500

Most people (65 percent) surveyed by International SOS for its 2025 Risk Outlook said they perceive their environment to be riskier this year.

McKinsey Subsidiary to Pay Over $122 Million to Resolve Investigation into South African Bribery Scheme

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 11:46:15 -0500

A subsidiary of McKinsey & Company will pay more than $122 million to resolve an investigation into a scheme to bribe South African government officials between 2012 and 2016, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced Thursday.

2024 Global Insurance Market Report Highlights Climate and Geopolitics as Key Risks

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 13:07:43 -0500

The International Association of Insurance Supervisors pointed out that natural catastrophes are expected to increase, along with the impacts of geopolitical trends. These issues will likely impact insurance affordability.

UnitedHealthcare CEO Shot and Killed in Manhattan

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 17:52:27 -0500

UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, 50, was shot and killed this morning in what appears to be a targeted attack. Here, executive protection and security leaders weigh in on threats to CEOs today.

U.S. Officials Offer Warnings and Guidance in the Wake of Salt Typhoon Cyberespionage Attacks

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 12:27:14 -0500

In the wake of a major telecommunications cyberattack, U.S. federal officials urged companies to boost network security and recommended Americans turn to encrypted communications to keep their interactions secure.

Can AI Enable ESRM Growth?

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 12:43:08 -0500

AI tools can help security analysts speed up their information synthesis and develop easily understood assessments to help risk owners make more effective, timely decisions about operations.

Gnomes and Monkeys and Bears, Oh My! What a Strange Month

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 10:50:27 -0500

Check out a selection of November 2024's strange, wild, or otherwise weird security-related news.

Starbucks, Grocers Revert to Manual Processes After Ransomware Attack on Third-Party Software System

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 10:36:06 -0500

Blue Yonder, an Arizona-based cloud services provider, was hit by a ransomware attack last week that disrupted a number of its managed services. Now, the ramifications are being felt by the company’s customers.

Former Macy’s Employee Allegedly Hid Up to $154 Million in Expenses

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 11:46:01 -0500

On Monday, 25 November, Macy’s Inc, took the extraordinary step of delaying its official third-quarter earnings report because it said it uncovered an accounting error hiding between $132 million and $154 million of delivery expenses.

Push for Workplace AI Opens Doors for Scammers and Malware Campaigns

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 10:32:16 -0500

A large social media campaign promoted a free AI video editor app that promised to “create breathtaking videos in minutes” with “no special skills required.” It delivered malware instead.

Intelligence Agencies Warn Defense Industrial Base of Russian Sabotage Operations

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 12:45:20 -0500

Six U.S. intelligence agencies issued a warning on Thursday to the defense industrial base about Russian government sabotage operations attempting to undermine Allied support for Ukraine.

January 6 Rioter Convicted of Plotting Murder of FBI Agents

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 10:44:19 -0500

A U.S. federal jury found a Tennessee man guilty of plotting to murder FBI employees who were investigating the man’s involvement in the attack on the U.S. Capitol on 6 January 2021.

CISA Releases New Guidance to Improve Venue Security and Safety

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 14:00:12 -0500

The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) released guidance on Tuesday to assist venue operators in their efforts to enhance safety, protect assets, and create secure environments.

Smog Shuts Down New Delhi

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 11:44:41 -0500

Air pollution in the highly populated regions of northern India and northern Pakistan reached extremely dangerous levels, closing schools and businesses.

EPA Office of Inspector General Warns That More Than 200 Drinking Water Systems Have Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 13:25:48 -0500

In a passive assessment of more than 1,000 drinking water systems, the EPAOIG found cybersecurity vulnerabilities that an attacker could use to impact service to tens of thousands, potentially millions, of people.

Valencia Leader Admits Mistakes in Flooding Response, Announces Plan for Incident Inquiry

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 12:15:22 -0500

Valencia’s leader admitted mistakes while also casting blame elsewhere in his 15 November speech before the regional parliament to explain the government's response to disastrous flooding that hit the region in late October.

2024 U.S. Election: Ballot Measure Roundup

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 10:20:13 -0500

For the 14 November edition of Today in Security, we’re looking at the ballot measures that were passed or failed to pass in the 2024 U.S. Election.

Soccer Matches Have Become Focal Point of Anti-Israel Protests

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 16:25:03 -0500

The violence that preceded and followed the Europa League soccer match between local team Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv last week in Amsterdam continued through the weekend and early this week. This put a spotlight on antisemitism, as well as anger at Israel for how it has conducted its war in Gaza and other neighboring regions.

Man Drives Vehicle Into People at Community Exercise Facility

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 12:34:12 -0500

On 11 November in Zhuhai, China, a person drove a vehicle into a crowd, killing 35 people and injuring at least 43 others. The suspect injured himself with a knife and is in custody, but comatose and unable to respond to law enforcement.

Amsterdam Initiates Security Crack-Down After Violence Breaks Out Around Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv Match

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 13:18:46 -0500

Amsterdam is banning demonstrations until Monday after violent attacks on Israeli fans occurred before and after a soccer match on Thursday.

29 Alleged Drug Traffickers Arrested in EU Raids

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 11:19:51 -0500

Law enforcement in Albania and Italy successfully shut down a drug trafficking network that is believed to have been responsible for importing drugs from South America into EU member states.

Man Planned to Use Drone-Borne Explosives to Attack Tennessee Substation, FBI Alleges

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 10:19:43 -0500

Federal authorities arrested a 24-year-old man for allegedly trying to blow up a Tennessee power station as part of an accelerationist, white supremacist plot to disrupt American society.

European Cargo Fires Linked to Russian Plot Against United States, Canada

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 10:15:43 -0500

We examine a story first reported by The Wall Street Journal that links Russia to two small explosions at air freight logistics hubs in Europe earlier this year. The devices were reportedly part of a plot to test how to start fires aboard planes carrying cargo to the United States and Canada.

U.S. Secret Service Acknowledges Communications and Preparedness Gaps in 13 July Political Rally Security

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 12:20:32 -0500

“July 13, 2024, was a failure for the Secret Service.” It’s a stark conclusion to the U.S. Secret Service’s Mission Assurance Inquiry report about the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Cyber Practitioners Look to Become More Strategic, Build Non-Technical Skill Sets as Workforce Growth Stalls

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 12:55:09 -0400

The need for cybersecurity professionals continues to grow around the world. But growth of the workforce has slowed for the first time since a major IT security organization began keeping track six years ago.

Rubber Ducks, Explosions, and Cheddar Cheese: It Must Be Another Edition of Strange Security

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 11:14:12 -0400

While October did not offer up many scary security-related stories for this Halloween edition of Strange Security, it certainly offered plenty of bizarre fodder. Here’s a look at some of the strangest stories that crossed our editors’ desks this month.

One-Third of Healthcare Security Practitioners Are Unsatisfied with Existing Security Frameworks

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 11:44:40 -0400

Budget constraints are by far the most significant barrier healthcare security professionals face to implementing new technologies, cited by 74 percent of people surveyed for HID Global’s new report, Securing the Future of Healthcare: Insights into Security and Resilience Across the Organization.

Delta Air Lines Launches Lawsuit Against CrowdStrike Over July Outage

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 12:55:49 -0400

Delta has filed a lawsuit against CrowdStrike, claiming that the firm “forced untested and faulty updates to its customers,” according to the suit. The suit also claims that the computer crashes directly lead to more than $500 million in out-of-pocket losses, as well as damage to the airline’s reputation.

74 Percent of U.S. Adults Worry 2024 Election Results Could Lead to Violence, Survey Finds

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 12:24:10 -0400

Three-quarters of U.S. adults surveyed by the American Psychological Association (APA) said the future of the nation was a significant source of stress in their lives—and it seems to be getting worse each election season.

How the Biden Administration’s New National Security Memo on AI Affects the Private Sector

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 12:57:59 -0400

U.S. President Joe Biden issued a national security memorandum on Thursday, outlining his administration’s approach to harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to advance U.S. national security. It outlines key areas where work with the private sector is necessary.

Trick or Treat: Europol Seized $98.3 Million in Fake or Substandard Food and Beverages

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 12:20:04 -0400

Europol's 2024 Operation OPSON, now in its thirteenth year, seized an estimated 22,000 tons of food and roughly 850,000 liters of beverages that were mostly alcoholic items. The seized goods had an estimated value of €91 million ($98.3 million).

DOJ Unseals Charges Against Four Iranians for Murder-for-Hire Plot Targeting U.S. Citizen

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 11:30:28 -0400

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) unsealed an indictment on Tuesday, charging members of an Iranian network for their alleged role in a murder-for-hire plot targeting an activist based in the United States.

Cuba Grapples With Power Outages and Hurricane Oscar

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 12:09:43 -0400

Millions of residents and tourists in Cuba have been grappling without electricity for two days, as well as contending with Hurricane Oscar making landfall over the weekend.

CISOs’ Profile Keeps Rising, But Does Attention Equal Sufficient Support?

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 12:21:27 -0400

Cybersecurity leaders' influence with C-suites and boards is growing alongside cyber budgets, but taking advantage of that spotlight requires increasing relationship management and communication skills.

Europol Announces Takedown of Gang Behind ATM Attacks

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 13:55:08 -0400

The individuals apprehended allegedly looted millions of euros and caused a similar amount of property damage from 2022 to 2024.

Defense Contractor RTX Agrees to $950 Million Fines to End Bribery and Fraud Allegations

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 13:39:35 -0400

Defense contractor RTX, formerly known as Raytheon Technologies Corporation, agreed to pay more than $950 million to resolve allegations of foreign bribery and inflating federal contracts.

California Announces Retail Crime Crackdown Progress

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 12:46:04 -0400

California continues its crackdown on organized retail crime with 621 investigations statewide so far in 2024, leading to 1,123 arrests and $8.1 million worth of stolen goods recovered.

Chinese and North Korean Actions Underscore Region’s Volatility

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 12:25:13 -0400

Two Asian hotspots grew a little more tense over the last few days. On 14 October, China staged military drills designed to simulate an attack on Taiwan. On 15 October, North Korea detonated explosives on the North Korean side of the border with South Korea that destroyed roads connecting the two countries.

TD Bank Pleads Guilty to Money Laundering Conspiracy and Will Pay More than $3 Billion in Fines for Violations of Bank Secrecy Act

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 11:24:35 -0400

TD Bank pled guilty and will pay more than $3.09 billion to resolve an investigation into violations of U.S. banking law and money laundering.

Hurricanes Milton and Helene: Flooding, Power Outages, Tornadoes, and Rumors

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 14:47:51 -0400

As hurricane season continues in the South, residents are grappling with back-to-back storms, tornadoes, power outages, flooding, and disinformation and misinformation efforts that may keep victims from receiving federal aid.

Mind the Gaps: Worsening Talent and Skills Shortages Continue to Plague Cybersecurity Industry

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 12:49:46 -0400

Despite rising cyber risks, the global active cyber workforce has stalled at 5.5 million people, leaving a gap in the current needed workforce of 4.8 million people.

Largest U.S. Water Utility Experiences Cyber Incident

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 11:09:19 -0400

American Water Works reported a cyber incident to the SEC. While the impact has been minimal so far, it underscores the vulnerability of the nation’s critical infrastructure to cyberattacks.

GAO: Socioeconomic Risk of Dirty Bomb Use Unevenly Informs U.S. Nuclear Agencies’ Security Approaches

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 12:13:07 -0400

A watchdog agency found that U.S. departments responsible for radiological security often share similar assessments of nuclear material threats and vulnerabilities, but they differ in their considerations around socioeconomic consequences, which affects their security activities.

Federal Jury Convicts Three Former Memphis Police Officers on Charges Related to Death of Tyre Nichols

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 11:02:05 -0400

A U.S. federal jury found three former Memphis Police Department officers guilty of witness tampering on Thursday in a case connected to the death of Tyre Nichols last January in Tennessee.

U.S. Homeland Security Said Threat of Domestic and Foreign Terrorism Remains High

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 13:39:29 -0400

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently released its 2025 Homeland Threat Assessment, providing a big-picture look at the threat landscape.

Israel, Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran: Where Is It All Headed?

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 14:33:40 -0400

Today in Security highlights a variety of viewpoints on the conflict from experts after Iran launched almost 200 missiles at Israel on 1 October.

Strange Security: Bulls Run Wild and a One Pound Weight Leads to a Felony

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 13:27:07 -0400

A selection of some of the strange or bizarre security-related news items our editors ran across in the month of September.

What Growing Outsourcing Means for Security Management

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 11:39:07 -0400

Outsourced security roles—from guarding to GSOCs to intelligence analysis—are on the rise, but are management skills keeping up?

Improving Museum Security and Visitor Experiences

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 09:01:39 -0400

The Detroit Institute of Art was able to pull off a four-month exhibition of the largest concentration of Vincent Van Gogh’s works with the help of an updated surveillance system.

Creating a Safe Space

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 07:00:10 -0400

An Arkansas school district adopts a storm shelter solution to address tornado and active shooter threats.

Criminal Phishing Network Taken Down in Spain and Latin America

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 12:25:09 -0400

A joint operation between Europol and the Specialized Cybercrime Center of Ameripol dismantled a criminal phishing network that had targeted more than 480,000 victims worldwide.

Exploding Pager Attack Puts Spotlight on Tampering Along the Supply Chain

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 11:44:01 -0400

Thousands of pagers were allegedly tampered with during production to facilitate an orchestrated attack on Hezbollah personnel on 17 September.

What Will the Future of Work Look Like?

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 13:20:00 -0400

New research shows how different types of people come to different conclusions about what the future holds. And that we will end up living in The Matrix.

Suspect is in Custody Following Alleged Assassination Attempt on Former U.S. President Trump

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 10:44:23 -0400

U.S. Secret Service agents spotted the muzzle of a rifle sticking out of shrubbery lining the Trump International Golf Course as they swept the course for security hazards ahead of the former president and current presidential nominee while he played.

Insider Interference: U.S. Agencies Highlight Threat Insiders Can Pose to Election Security

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 07:00:10 -0400

New guidance from U.S. federal agencies seeks to help state and local officials counter the threat that malicious insiders could pose to election infrastructure.

Typhoon Yagi is Over, But Its Aftermath Continues to Batter Vietnam

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 13:20:49 -0400

Even though Typhoon Yagi touched down on Vietnam and dissipated days ago, the storm’s aftermath continues to wreak damage and death. The resulting floods and landslides have caused almost 200 deaths, with more than 125 more people still listed as missing.

Prison Visitor Subjected to Cavity Search Reaches $5.6 Million Settlement

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 11:34:56 -0400

A California woman will receive $5.6 million under a settlement agreement after she sued a prison system, hospital, and multiple individuals for allegedly conducting an unlawful strip search.

Indictment Shows How Online Groups Allegedly Encourage and Solicit Extremist Acts

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 15:50:00 -0400

The U.S. Department of Justice unsealed an indictment that shows how two individuals allegedly used the Telegram social messaging app to inspire, teach, and encourage other extremists to inflict mass casualties, assassinate officials, and target critical infrastructure.

New York Retailers Must Document Workplace Violence Prevention Plans, Add Silent Alarms

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 09:16:54 -0400

New York retailers with 500 or more employees nationwide must install silent alarms in easily accessibly locations or provide wearable or smartphone-based alarm devices to alert emergency authorities of trouble.

U.S. Charges 5 GRU Officers, 1 Civilian, with Conspiracy to Hack Ukraine’s Government Prior to 2022 Invasion

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 09:42:18 -0400

U.S. prosecutors charged six Russian nationals for their alleged role in a conspiracy to hack Ukraine’s government prior to Russia’s invasion in February 2022, according to an indictment unsealed Thursday.

Apalachee High School Shooting: What We Know

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 13:14:34 -0400

Officials charged a 14-year-old student with the murder of two students and two teachers in a shooting that occurred at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia, on the morning of 4 September.

Grenfell Tower Fire Inquiry Maps Out Chain of Failures That Led to Disaster

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 09:47:15 -0400

A chain of failures by governments, “dishonest” companies, and a lack of fire service strategy or coordination for high-rise building fire response culminated in the 2017 Grenfell Tower fire disaster that killed 72 people, a new public inquiry report concluded.

Strange Security: Drugs in Strange Places Edition

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 11:47:51 -0400

These are the places drugs have been found recently: fake watermelons, English rivers, hard candy, fast food, and celery. Read about it in this month's Strange Security roundup.

California’s Legislature Passes Major AI Regulation to Implement Safety, Security Measures

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 11:16:29 -0400

California’s legislature passed a major artificial intelligence (AI) regulation bill, which now awaits Governor Gavin Newsom’s signature to become law.

Several Disease Outbreaks Hit the United States

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 13:38:26 -0400

Outbreaks of several different bacterial and viral illnesses have been reported throughout the United States this summer.

South Africa Investigates Alleged $7 Billion of Corruption at State-Owned Companies

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 12:46:01 -0400

Corruption and graft have plagued South African companies for years, especially where government contracts are concerned.

Founder of Telegram App Arrested in France

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 08:12:23 -0400

French authorities announced on 26 August that they had arrested Telegram founder Pavel Durov because the messaging and social app enabled child pornography, drug trafficking, and fraudulent transactions.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agrees to Settle Pregnancy Discrimination Case

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 12:45:06 -0400

The class action suit argued that CBP violated the Pregnancy Discrimination Act by compelling pregnant employees to submit to temporary light duty because of their pregnancy, “without regard to whether they could continue working in their positions of record either with or without a reasonable accommodation.”

Company Issues Mass Recall as FDA Investigates Mushroom Edibles Linked to Illnesses

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 12:28:19 -0400

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is investigated more than 140 documented cases of patients experiencing illnesses after consuming mushroom edibles.

California Gets Tough on Retail Crime

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 08:29:53 -0400

On 16 August, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed into law 10 bills designed to decrease property theft. The legislation addresses retail theft from a variety of angles, all designed to make it easier to catch, prosecute, and punish offenders, with the ultimate goal of enhanced deterrence.

Commission Finds U.S. Army Reserves, Maine Police Missed Opportunities to Avert 2023 Mass Shooting

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 11:11:33 -0400

The commission report found that the 2023 shooter's U.S. Army Reserve commanders ignored the advice of mental health clinicians who urged them to closely monitor whether the individual was continuing treatment and to ensure his weapons were taken away.

Protests at Democratic Convention Remain Peaceful

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 10:05:04 -0400

Despite hype that people protesting U.S. support of Israel would mirror the chaotic 1968 DNC, the 2024 convention began with a smaller-than-expected and mostly peaceful protest.

Background Check Company Breach Puts 2.9 Billion Records at Risk

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 13:22:47 -0400

According to a civil lawsuit, a cybercriminal group going by the name of USDoD claimed to have the personal data of 2.9 billion people, putting the database up for sale for $3.5 million. The data, allegedly stolen from a background check firm, was later released online.

Man Charged for Attacks on Orlando-Area Businesses, Utilities in Alleged Protest of Israel’s Actions in Gaza

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 09:58:24 -0400

U.S. authorities arrested and charged Hashem Younis Hashem Hnaihen, a Jordanian citizen living in Florida, for his alleged role in attacks on Orlando-area businesses and utilities he said supported Israel, according to court documents unsealed Thursday.

Mpox Outbreak Declared Global Health Emergency

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 15:39:09 -0400

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared that the current outbreak of mpox in parts of Africa is a public health emergency of international concern.

Former Law Enforcement Officials Charged in 2019 Sham Raid, Extortion Attempt

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 12:08:49 -0400

U.S. federal prosecutors charged four individuals with threatening a Chinese national and his family with violence and deportation during a 2019 sham raid at the victim’s home in Orange County, California.

FBI Finds Motor Vehicle Theft Steadily Increasing in United States

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 12:11:05 -0400

Between 2019 and 2023, more vehicle thefts occurred at residences than at any other location in the United States, with 256,733 incidents in 2023 alone.

UK Authorities Arrest Suspect for Stabbing in Leicester Square Following Weeks of Civil Unrest

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 11:44:19 -0400

UK authorities arrested a man suspected of stabbing two individuals in a public square in London on Monday morning following weeks of unrest spurred by a separate knife attack.

Taylor Swift Concerts Canceled in Vienna Due to Suspected Terrorist Plot

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 12:33:55 -0400

Four suspects have been detained in connection to an alleged plot to attack and kill “a large crowd of people” in a suicide attack at a Taylor Swift concert in Vienna, Austria, police said.

AHA and Health-ISAC Jointly Call For Action After Ransomware Attacks on Critical Suppliers

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 13:57:49 -0400

The American Hospital Association and Health-ISAC issued a joint threat bulletin in response to recent ransomware attacks that resulted in significant disruptions to patient care.

Four Former Hotel Employees Charged with Murder in Relation to Milwaukee Man’s Death

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 13:43:49 -0400

Local prosecutors charged four former Hyatt hotel employees with murder in connection with the death of D’Vontaye Mitchell in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

High-Security Areas of NFL Stadiums to Use Facial Recognition System

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 11:17:15 -0400

The National Football League launched a facial recognition security protocol for sensitive areas in all of its stadiums for the 2024 season. The systems will use facial recognition to verify credentials from workers, press, and other game day personnel who have access to restricted areas of stadiums.

False Information Online Stirs Up Tensions and Riots in UK After Stabbing Attack

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 11:24:19 -0400

Less than two hours after a memorial event for three children killed in a stabbing attack, hundreds of rioters flooded the streets of Southport, throwing bricks at a mosque, attacking police, setting cars on fire, and damaging a convenience store.

Massive Prisoner Exchange Releases 16 People from Wrongful Detention in Russia

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 12:58:05 -0400

Western countries engaged in a massive prisoner exchange to release 16 individuals from wrongful detention in Russia, including journalists, political activists, and a security practitioner.

The Summer of (Security) Weirdness

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 13:37:34 -0400

In strange, security-related news of the last month, we learned how to get a buzz from snacks, scam large tech companies, get a little plastic surgery touch-up to evade those pesky surveillance cameras, and avoid coked-up sharks—as well as why all those in security should stay up to date with their inoculations.

Survey: Professional Associations Have Room for Improvement on Risk Management

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 12:18:44 -0400

A new survey and guide from ASAE provide an overview of where associations stand on risk management and crisis preparedness, as well as resources on how to improve.

The Cost of a Data Breach Is Increasing

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 12:09:35 -0400

A report from IBM showed the average cost of a corporate data breach jumped 10 percent year-over-year to $4.88 million. The total expenditures include operational downtime, lost customers, and post-breach costs such as additional customer service expenses and fines.

Deadly Rocket Strike in Golan Heights Threatens to Escalate Hezbollah-Israeli Military Conflict

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 11:56:15 -0400

Israel’s air force blamed Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah for a missile strike that killed 12 youths, but the group strongly denied involvement.

Arsonists Attack French Rail Lines, Disrupting Olympic Travel to Paris

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 12:55:29 -0400

Arsonists attacked three rail lines in France early Friday, disrupting rail service for approximately 800,000 people traveling to Paris and the Opening Ceremony of the Summer Olympics.

No More Realistic School Shooting Drills in New York

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 12:52:12 -0400

New York students entering the 2024-2025 school year will not complete realistic active shooter drills, and schools are now required to provide prior notice of drills.

It’s Go Time as Vast Security Operation Prepares for Start of Paris Olympics

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 12:25:33 -0400

Isolated security incidents and uncovered plots continue to dot the Parisian landscape in the lead up to a security effort that has locked down the heart of the City of Light.

Secret Service Director Resigns After Trump Assassination Attempt

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 10:50:41 -0400

A bipartisan group of lawmakers ridiculed Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle for not answering questions and for the lack of information the Secret Service had made public about the attack.

CrowdStrike Software Glitch Affected 8.5 Million Computers, Hampering Travel, Healthcare, and More

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 12:42:31 -0400

Approximately 8.5 million computers worldwide were briefly disabled late last week by a global IT outage caused by a corrupted software update from security company CrowdStrike.

U.S. Secret Service Faces Scrutiny for Potential Lapses Prior to Trump Attack

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 14:22:15 -0400

Nearly one week after a gunman opened fire on former U.S. President Donald Trump at a campaign rally, U.S. Secret Service officials are facing intense scrutiny for potential missteps that allowed the incident to occur in the first place.

The FDA and FTC Issue Warning to Makers of Doweedos and Other Copycat Snack Products Containing THC

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 12:19:32 -0400

Two federal agencies issued warnings to five companies concerning the sale of food products that not only look too much like popular snack brands, but are also THC products, which regulators claim pose a risk to young children.

Repair Workers Under Threat Amid Power Outages in Houston

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 11:22:22 -0400

More than a week after Hurricane Beryl swept across Houston, more than 80,000 residents are still without power, and some are lashing out against linemen and repair crews.

Looking for Lessons in the Copa América Football Final Security Breaches

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 14:21:48 -0400

The latest significant security breakdown at a high-profile sporting event came on 14 July when crowds overwhelmed security at the Copa América football final in Miami.

Trump Assassination Attempt Ramps Up Political Violence Fears

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 14:46:21 -0400

Online rhetoric around political violence has ramped up significantly after an assailant opened fire at a political rally, injuring former U.S. President Donald Trump. Security teams are now on high alert.

Hotel Operator Fires Security Personnel After Incident Results in Milwaukee Man’s Death

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 13:58:48 -0400

A Hyatt hotel operator fired several security associates on Wednesday for violating policies and procedures after they pinned a man to the ground near the hotel’s entrance. The altercation ultimately resulted in the man’s death last month.

NATO Accuses China of Being an 'Enabler' in Russia-Ukraine War

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 12:52:38 -0400

On Wednesday, NATO allies accused China of being a “decisive enabler” in the Russian war against and invasion of Ukraine.

Russian Bot Farm Allegedly Used AI to Impersonate Americans Online

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 11:03:45 -0400

Generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI) is supercharging influence campaigns, including a widespread disinformation operation allegedly run out of Russia.

Companies Are Slow to Deploy Workplace Safety Technology

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 12:18:09 -0400

A new report from the U.S. National Safety Council (NSC) examines technologies that companies can deploy to try create a safer work environment. The report found that adoption of beneficial technologies is low.

Boeing Agrees to Plead Guilty to Criminal Fraud Charge

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 11:50:10 -0400

Airplane manufacturer Boeing accepted a deal to plead guilty to a criminal fraud charge related to two crashes of 737 Max jets in 2018 and 2019, according to the U.S Department of Justice. The two crashes killed 346 people.

Amid Rising Heat Deaths, U.S. Department of Labor Proposes Extreme Heat Safety Rule

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 11:19:27 -0400

The U.S. Department of Labor released a proposed rule to require employers to develop an injury and illness prevention plan to control heat hazards in workplaces affected by heat at or above 80 degrees Fahrenheit (26 Celsius).

Are You Ready for California’s New Workplace Violence Prevention Regulation?

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 13:01:47 -0400

California’s Senate Bill 553 requires nearly all California employers to create, adopt, and implement written workplace violence prevention plans.

Climate Activists Get Busy and Gangsters Get Explosive in June’s Strange News

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 08:31:38 -0400

This month in security-adjacent news of weirdness brought mistaken planes, a backflip, and a really big kaboom among other stories.

Disconnected: One-Fifth of Global Workers Now Report Experiencing Daily Loneliness

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 07:58:13 -0400

The State of the Global Workplace: 2024 Report recently disclosed that most employees say they are struggling at work and in life, with 20 percent of employees saying they now experience daily loneliness.

2024 Security LeadHER: Leveraging Allies, Influence, and Awkwardness for a Stronger Security Industry

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 12:18:28 -0400

At the second annual Security LeadHER conference in Phoenix, Arizona, more than 400 women and men who work and lead in the security industry had the opportunity to learn, converse, and inspire each other.

Indonesia Refuses to Pay $8M Ransom in Data Center Cyberattack

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 11:27:47 -0400

A major Indonesian data center was hit by ransomware criminals on 20 June in an attack that affected more than 200 institutions in the country, including digital services for immigration, visas, passports, and residence permits.

FBI Report: U.S. Active Shooter Incidents Dipped in 2023, but Remain Above 2019 Numbers

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 13:00:51 -0400

Between 2019 and 2023, the FBI designated 229 active shooter incidents—an 89 percent increase from the 121 incidents in the previous period from 2014 to 2018.

More than 1,300 People Died During 2024 Hajj; Authorities Cite Intense Heat and Unauthorized Pilgrims as Factors

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 12:21:26 -0400

More than 1,300 people died while attempting to complete the sacred Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca this year due to record heat and high numbers of unauthorized travelers, according to Saudi Arabian authorities.

NYPD Officers Spent Thousands of Hours Responding to Unconfirmed Gunshot Detect Alerts, Audit Finds

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 13:11:29 -0400

New York Police Department (NYPD) officers spent thousands of hours between 2020 and 2023 responding to unconfirmed gunshot detection alerts from ShotSpotter, according to an audit released Thursday.

Same Heat Dome, Different Day: U.S. Regions Remain Under Extreme Heat Advisories

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 11:52:38 -0400

A heat wave will continue to impact the Great Lakes, Northeast, and Mid-Atlantic U.S. into the weekend, according to the U.S. National Weather Service (NWS). Tens of millions of people will be impacted by the extreme weather. Are your workers acclimatized to the heat?

Executives are Cautiously Optimistic About Doing Business Globally, Survey Finds

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 11:31:55 -0400

Businesses executives overwhelmingly have a positive outlook on the state of global business and technology and what it means for their companies. But they were slightly less upbeat in the first quarter of 2024 than they were in the last quarter of 2023.

Iraq Deploys Counterterrorism Force to Protect U.S. Franchises from Vandals

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 10:23:45 -0400

Starting in late May, assailants have targeted American-style food chains in Baghdad, Iraq, as part of an economic boycott of brands that they claim help fund the Israeli military’s actions in Gaza.

Germany Ramps Up Security Efforts as UEFA EURO 2024 Begins

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 07:00:10 -0400

Germany will take on Scotland today in the opening match of the much-anticipated Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) European Championship 2024 (EUROs). German security agencies are ramping up their efforts to ensure a safe athletic experience.

NSC White Paper Studies Intersection of Common Work Injuries and DEI

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 12:05:28 -0400

A new white paper from the U.S. National Safety Council looked at the connections between musculoskeletal disorders and diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.

Banana Producer Chiquita Found Liable in Deaths of Colombian Farmers During Conflict

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 12:25:03 -0400

A South Florida jury found that Chiquita knowingly engaged in “hazardous activity” that substantially increased the risk of harm to plaintiffs’ family members during a deadly internal conflict in Colombia.

European Elections: Center Holds, But Far Right Makes Gains

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 12:55:41 -0400

Voting for the European Parliament concluded Sunday, and as final tallies are being calculated, it is clear that right-wing nationalist parties gained ground, though center-right parties will continue to control the most seats.

North Korea Launches More Trash Balloons, South to Respond with Propaganda Broadcasts

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 13:50:40 -0400

The Korean peninsula is one of the tensest regions in the world, and while the bizarre tit-for-tat may sound comical, there is always concern that any situation between the nations could escalate quickly.

French Police Arrest Man for Hotel Room Explosion as Olympic Security Efforts Ramp-Up

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 12:42:42 -0400

French authorities arrested a Ukrainian-Russian man suspected of detonating explosive materials inside a hotel room north of Paris on Wednesday.

Report Finds 2023 Brought More Whistleblowing Reports Than Ever

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 09:58:13 -0400

In a 2024 Whistleblowing & Incident Management Benchmark Report, findings show that more reports were filed in 2023 than ever before in Europe, North America, and South America.

With Global Mass Migration and Displacement, Both Tensions and Temperatures Rise

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 11:14:36 -0400

Whether caused by climate crises or armed conflicts, mass migration can exacerbate existing tensions between groups, leading to heightened polarization that extremists can exploit.

Federal Fraud Trial Marred by Attempted Bribe of Juror

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 11:38:07 -0400

On the evening of Sunday, 2 June, a woman carried a shopping bag filled with wads of cash to a Minneapolis-area home and tried to bribe a juror who was sitting for a federal COVID-19 fraud trial.

Scorpions, Tools, Pickleball, Slingshots, and Graceland: Oh M(a)y!

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 10:47:45 -0400

May featured a lot of thieving and attempted thieving, as well as a neighborhood terrorized by a slingshot-wielding menace. We bring you strange security stories from the last month, beginning with the scorpion-smuggling saga that wasn't.

After Trump Guilty Verdict, Questions Arise on Judge and Jurors’ Physical Safety Measures

Fri, 31 May 2024 13:26:40 -0400

The New York trial of former U.S. President Donald Trump posed unique security risks for court officials—from Justice Juan Merchan who oversaw the trial, the team of prosecutors, witnesses called to testify, and jurors who served.

Western Powers Are Moving Against Russian Disinformation and Influence Campaigns

Thu, 30 May 2024 12:07:41 -0400

With elections for a new EU parliament scheduled from 6 to 9 June, European authorities, Western allies, and social media platforms are increasing efforts to monitor and take down Russian influence campaigns.

Scammers Increasingly Impersonate Tech Support, Online Retailers

Wed, 29 May 2024 11:03:39 -0400

In 2023, the FTC tallied more than 330,000 reports of business impersonation scams and nearly 160,000 reports of government impersonation scams, with combined reported losses of $1.1 billion.

State of Emergency in New Caledonia Lifted, Though Unrest Continues

Tue, 28 May 2024 12:34:54 -0400

The international airport remains closed as indigenous separatists continue street blockades, and the protests disrupt nickel markets.

NOAA Predicts ‘Above-Normal’ Atlantic Hurricane Season, Releases Resources for Emergency Managers

Fri, 24 May 2024 11:13:28 -0400

As one of the strongest El Niño’s in history sunsets and a La Niña rises, forecasters are predicting above-normal hurricane activity in the Atlantic Ocean in 2024.

In School Shooting Settlement, Uvalde Officials Commit to Systemic Changes

Thu, 23 May 2024 11:11:25 -0400

To avert a lawsuit, the City of Uvalde agreed to overhaul its police force, create a permanent memorial to the victims of the shooting, and pay $2 million.

Under the Dome: Mexico's Ongoing Heat Wave

Wed, 22 May 2024 13:06:19 -0400

Ten cities registered record-high temperatures, including the capital, Mexico City, on 17 May. The aggressive heat is thanks to a heat dome—a persistent and powerful system of high pressure—parked over a large area of Mexico, sometimes drifting south over the Yucatan region. The heat wave has resulted in deaths, nationwide blackouts, and weather events beyond the country's borders.

EPA Issues Another Urgent Alert on Cyber Vulnerabilities of U.S. Water Supply

Tue, 21 May 2024 11:04:27 -0400

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, water utilities are not doing enough to prevent cyber attacks that could threaten the nation’s water supply.

Iranian President Killed in Helicopter Crash

Mon, 20 May 2024 11:18:54 -0400

Relief workers located the Iranian leader's missing helicopter, which went down amid heavy fog in the mountainous northwest region of Iran near the Azerbaijan border, early Monday morning.

Suspect Charged in Assassination Attempt of Slovak Prime Minister

Fri, 17 May 2024 10:58:13 -0400

Slovak officials charged a man with attempting to assassinate Prime Minister Robert Fico outside of a cultural community center in Handlova on Wednesday.

Two Brothers Charged with Stealing $25 million in Cryptocurrency in 12 Seconds

Thu, 16 May 2024 12:10:42 -0400

The U.S. Department of Justice charged two MIT-educated brothers with wire fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering.

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico Shot Outside Community Center

Wed, 15 May 2024 10:36:00 -0400

A shooter opened fire outside a cultural community center in Handlova, Slovakia, wounding Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico.

Stock Memes Highlight Threats to Financial Systems

Tue, 14 May 2024 11:44:16 -0400

Stock manipulation by means of social memes is one of several threat scenarios examined in Rand report on how threat actors might try to attack financial stability.

Rate of U.S. Gun Theft from Vehicles Tripled in the Past Decade, Report Finds

Mon, 13 May 2024 11:11:18 -0400

In 2022, nearly 112,000 guns were reported stolen in the 337 small- to large-sized cities that reported data to the FBI, and 51 percent of those guns were reported stolen from cars.

Meeting the AI Moment: Reflections from RSAC 2024

Fri, 10 May 2024 10:00:15 -0400

Last year at the RSA Conference (RSAC), artificial intelligence (AI) was the buzzword you couldn’t avoid. At the 2024 event this past week in San Francisco, California, it’s now an essential aspect of the security conversation with the attention of top executives.

Concerns Rise as Attacks Against German Politicians Increase Ahead of Elections

Thu, 09 May 2024 12:20:12 -0400

As elections near in Germany, politicians from the Greens and Social Democratic parties are increasingly targeted, suffering violent assaults. Mainstream political parties have accused the nation’s far-right party, Alternative for Germany, of creating an increasingly intimidating political environment.

FDIC’s Toxic Culture Enabled Widespread Harassment and Abuse, Report Finds

Wed, 08 May 2024 11:28:12 -0400

An independent review found that “for far too many employees and for far too long, the FDIC has failed to provide a workplace safe from sexual harassment, discrimination, and other interpersonal misconduct."

Internal Investigation Reveals Boeing Employees Falsified Inspection Data

Tue, 07 May 2024 10:41:31 -0400

The latest blow to Boeing entails safety issues on the production of the 787 Dreamliner jet and sets off another FAA investigation of the company.

Deadly Flooding Strikes Worldwide, Undercutting Infrastructure and Underscoring Resilience Needs

Mon, 06 May 2024 12:24:54 -0400

Flooding might be one of the most common weather-related hazards in the world, but it is also one of the most complex, damaging infrastructure, hampering hygiene, and snarling transportation, delaying aid and slowing recovery.

Verizon DBIR: Threat Actors Continue to Leverage Compromised Credentials to Steal Corporate Data

Fri, 03 May 2024 11:56:58 -0400

How are threat actors gaining access to your organization’s systems? Probably by using your credentials.

New U.S. Sanctions Target Supporters of Russian Invasion of Ukraine

Thu, 02 May 2024 12:34:20 -0400

The U.S. Departments of State and Treasury imposed new sanctions against more than 280 entities that support Russia’s military efforts and chemical weapons programs as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine continues for a third year.

U.S. Homeland Security Launches New Critical Infrastructure Security Guidance

Wed, 01 May 2024 12:32:08 -0400

Critical infrastructure operators in the United States have new guidance around security and resilience, especially when it comes to emerging risks, geopolitical threats, and artificial intelligence (AI).

Strange Security: The Animal Edition

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 10:14:26 -0400

Horses, zebras, elephants, cicadas, and, yes, even flame-throwing robot dogs, show humans they have something to contribute to the safety and security news cycle. (Plus: a few odd stories on stealing things.)

Paris Olympics Officials Searching for Enough Security Contractors

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 10:46:43 -0400

Paris 2024 organizers need 22,000 private security agents to secure Olympic venues, but last-minute recruitment efforts are still underway to try and meet that demand.

Conflicts Sharply Exacerbated Food Shortages, Famine, and Starvation, UN Report Finds

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 11:48:48 -0400

The 2024 Global Report on Food Crises (GRFC) found that 281.6 million people faced high levels of acute food insecurity across 59 countries and territories in 2023.

ISC2 Report: The Number of Women in Cybersecurity Remains Stagnant, Despite Ongoing Workforce Gap

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 12:12:24 -0400

Despite an increasing cybersecurity workforce gap (4 million jobs and counting), new analysis from ISC2 finds that women continue to be underrepresented in the profession and the industry has made little progress towards significantly increasing the number of women with cybersecurity jobs.

FTC Adopts Rule Banning Most Noncompete Agreements

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 12:30:01 -0400

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) adopted a new rule that bans new noncompete agreements with all U.S. workers, including senior executives.

How to Overcome Stigma About Employer-Sponsored Mental Health Programs

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 10:50:30 -0400

A team of researchers conducted a social experiment to discover how to increase participation in a company’s mental health initiative. Of the methods they studied, sharing the experiences, or stories, from people who had used the service had the most measurable positive effect.

Protest Roundup: Encampments, Demonstrations, and Arrests at U.S. Universities

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 13:44:22 -0400

As pro-Palestinian protests on college and university campuses continue, some educational institutions are presenting a more aggressive posture in dealing with the disruptions.

DOE Extends Title IX Protections to LGBTQ Student and Staff, Places New Investigatory Requirements on Schools

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 12:14:57 -0400

The U.S. Department of Education (DOE) issued a final rule Friday morning that extends Title IX protections to LGBTQ+ students and employees while clarifying what constitutes sex discrimination at higher education institutions that accept federal assistance.

Germany Arrests Two Alleged Russian Spies

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 12:47:58 -0400

Two men were arrested in Germany on 17 April and are facing charges of espionage on behalf of Russia. The two men, who are German-Russian nationals, are suspected of planning to sabotage German military aid for Ukraine and of scouting U.S. military facilities and other sites.

GAO Estimates U.S. Government Loses Upwards of $500 Billion Each Year to Fraud

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 10:57:53 -0400

The U.S. Government Accountability Office computed that fraud in those years may have reached as high as 7 percent of federal spending, with the highest spikes likely connected to COVID-19 relief fund abuse.

Protesters Block Traffic at Key Sites in Several U.S. Cities

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 11:45:58 -0400

The actions, semi-coordinated through a group called A15 Action, were meant to protest U.S. support for Israel in its war against Hamas in Gaza.

Australian Officials Praise First Responder and Bystanders After Stabbing Attack at Mall

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 11:32:46 -0400

An assailant armed with a knife killed six people and injured several more at a mall outside Sydney, Australia, on 13 April before he was shot and killed by a police officer.

Measles is Coming Back to the U.S.

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 12:50:06 -0400

The United States won the battle against measles. Thanks to vaccine hesitancy, the U.S. may lose the war.

Ethiopia's Human Rights Committee Calls For Investigation Into Killing of Political Opposition Figure

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 11:49:54 -0400

Ethiopia's state-appointed human rights commission has called for an investigation into Bate Urgessa’s death. Bate, an outspoken critic of the nation's government, was gunned down and left by the side of the road Tuesday night in Odomia.

Feds Arrest Would-Be Solo Terrorist One Day Before Planned Attack on Church

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 10:30:11 -0400

FBI informants posed as Islamic State (IS) supporters and thwarted a planned attack on churches in Boise, Idaho.

Crime Spree Targeting Small Museums Ends After 20 Years

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 10:49:31 -0400

For more than two decades, a small-time gang of thieves stole artifacts from at least 14 museums and heritage sites, including paintings and sports memorabilia valued in the millions of dollars.

Drone Attack Hits Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 12:47:51 -0400

Drones struck at least three direct hits against the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant’s main reactor containment structures in Ukraine this weekend.

Europol Identifies Characteristics of the Most-Threatening Criminal Networks to the EU

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 10:59:03 -0400

Successful companies tend to be agile and resilient ones, capable of anticipating trends and pivoting quickly to adapt to new environments while maintaining operations. The most threatening criminal networks in the EU also have these skillsets, according to a new Europol report published Friday.

Taiwan Earthquake Preparations Result in Low Casualties During Latest Major Quake

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 13:32:59 -0400

Rescue efforts in Taiwan continue after a 7.4-magnitude earthquake in the eastern part of the country has left at least 10 people dead, more than 1,000 injured, more than 40 missing, and more than 600 people stranded. But the major earthquake could have resulted in significantly higher deaths and damage if the nation hadn't taken measures years before.

Eclipse Planning and Safety: Eye Protection and Whole Lot More

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 11:07:56 -0400

Large cities and small towns from Texas through the northern part of Maine have spent months preparing for Monday’s total solar eclipse—planning that is much more than just having special glasses on hand.

World Central Kitchen Pauses Gaza Operations After Deadly Air Strike

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 11:16:19 -0400

International food charity World Central Kitchen (WCK) is suspending its operations in Gaza after an Israeli air strike killed seven of its workers.

No Foolin’, March Was Strange

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 10:50:46 -0400

In this installment of Strange Security, we look at a pig named Kevin Bacon, Lego heads, and a real-life Weekend at Bernie’s experience, as well as other strange security-adjacent news we saw in March.

Beyond Bankman-Fried: Analyzing the Occupational Fraud Problem

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 11:20:36 -0400

While Sam Bankman-Fried’s trial garnered headlines around the world, he wasn’t the only occupational fraudster active during the prime years of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Princesses, Bridges, and Mass Shootings: Disinformation Agents Take Advantage of Recent Events to Sow Discord

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 12:49:34 -0400

What do the Princess of Wales, a collapsed bridge in Baltimore, abortion, a shooting in Moscow, and U.S. immigration issues all have in common? They were all co-opted for disinformation campaigns.

U.S., UK Officials Charge Seven for Computer Intrusions Related to APT31 Hacking Group

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 11:41:26 -0400

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) charged seven Chinese nationals with conspiracy to commit computer intrusions and wire fraud as part of their alleged involvement in a hacking group that spent 14 years targeting foreign critics, businesses, and political officials.

Major Bridge in Baltimore Crumples into Water After Being Struck by Container Ship

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 10:40:42 -0400

In a catastrophic shipping incident early this morning, a container ship leaving the Port of Baltimore hit a support column of the Francis Scott Key Bridge causing a large section of Interstate 695, a major thoroughfare into the city of Baltimore, to immediately collapse into the Patapsco River.

Four Men Accused of Terrorist Attack in Moscow Brought to Court

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 11:00:25 -0400

Four suspects accused of direct involvement in the 22 March terrorist attack of a concert hall in Russia appeared in a Moscow court on Sunday, 24 March. The attack is the deadliest to occur on Russian soil in years.

Security Vulnerability Allows Intruders to Unlock Hotel Rooms Using Forged Keycards

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 13:42:23 -0400

A newly disclosed security vulnerability allows individuals to open hotel room and multi-family housing unit doors using a keycard hacking technique.

The Biden Administration Warns Water Sector About Cybersecurity Attacks

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 11:52:54 -0400

The Biden administration is warning states that cyberattacks are targeting U.S. water and wastewater systems. It also announced it is forming a task force to assess cyber risks in the water sector.

Hong Kong Legislature Passes National Security Law, to Take Effect Saturday

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 11:48:51 -0400

Lawmakers in Hong Kong overwhelmingly passed legislation this week that will further transform its national security laws, as well as create penalties for individuals and organizations outside the region.

Paris Olympics Present Unique Security Challenges

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 13:55:44 -0400

Plans for an Opening Ceremony flotilla and regional conflicts make this summer’s Olympic games a particularly difficult event to secure.

Fourth Volcanic Eruption in Iceland Forces Evacuations

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 14:06:25 -0400

Although the lava and volcanic activity has slowed, the eruption is ongoing and authorities are monitoring the situation in case lava reaches the southern shoreline.

ICE to Require Agents in Five U.S. Cities to Use Body-Worn Cameras

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 11:26:37 -0400

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is rolling out a new program that requires its agents in five U.S. cities to use body-worn cameras when they interact with the public.

EU Passes Artificial Intelligence Act

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 13:46:34 -0400

European Union legislators voted on a final version of an artificial intelligence (AI) law that regulates the various products or services that rely on AI, identifying four categories of potential risk.

Anti-LGBTQ+ Hate Crimes in U.S. Schools Spiked in 2021-2022

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 10:19:42 -0400

U.S. school hate crimes targeting LGBTQ+ individuals rose sharply in recent years, quadrupling in states that have passed laws restricting LGBTQ student rights and education, according to Washington Post analysis of FBI data.

New Report Highlights U.S. Intelligence Agencies’ Threat Outlook

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 13:23:24 -0400

The Annual Threat Assessment of the U.S. Intelligence Community covers major global conflicts as well as trends affecting the security of U.S. corporations and the safety of its population.

European Union Illegal Drug Market Proves Resilient to Global Crises

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 12:49:39 -0400

The EU retail drug market is estimated to be worth more than €30 billion ($32.7 billion USD), making the supply and trafficking of drugs a lucrative business for organized crime groups.

Investigation Finds Uvalde Police Officers “Acted in Good Faith” While Responding to School Shooting

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 16:44:43 -0500

Uvalde police officers responding to the shooting at Robb Elementary School in 2022 “acted in good faith” and did not violate protocol, according to a report commissioned by the City of Uvalde that was released on Thursday.

Houthi Missile Campaign Claims First Fatalities

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 12:49:01 -0500

A Houthi missile strike on a cargo vessel off the southern coast of Yemen resulted in the deaths of three civilian crew members and injuries to four others. The attack is the first to result in fatalities since the Iranian-backed rebels began targeting maritime traffic in the region.

Liberty University Agrees to $14 Million Fine for Clery Act Violations

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 12:15:07 -0500

The U.S. Department of Education found that Liberty University did not notify people on campus about emergencies and dangerous situations, including bomb threats, the attempted abduction of a young girl, and people accused of repeated acts of criminal violence.

Appeals Court Rules Florida Cannot Bar Corporate DE&I Training

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 11:54:32 -0500

The Florida “Stop Woke Act” effectively barred most corporate diversity, equity, and inclusion training programs; however, an appellate panel unanimously rejected that part of the law as an abrogation of a company’s freedom of speech.

Gangs Attack Jails in Haiti, Releasing Thousands of Prisoners

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 11:23:01 -0500

Haiti is under a 72-hour state of emergency order after armed gangs stormed a major prison in Port-au-Prince, the nation’s capital, leaving at least 12 people dead and allowing 3,700 inmates to escape.

Data Commissioner Rules UK’s GPS Monitoring of Migrants is Illegal

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 12:26:28 -0500

A UK Home Office pilot program that used GPS monitoring of migrants is a violation of the UK’s data protection law, according to a Friday ruling from the UK Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).

Settle In: A Short Month Yields Long Strange Security Stories

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 12:03:29 -0500

Sometimes a month of strange security news requires a bit of extra time, but they're oh so worth it. So grab a snack, get comfortable, and jump into Strange Security: Long Reads edition.

Sensitive Data for Sale: White House Looks to Curb Foreign Governments’ Ability to Buy Americans’ Information

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 13:08:38 -0500

U.S. President Joe Biden will issue an executive order intended to curb foreign governments’ ability to buy Americans’ sensitive personal information, including genomic, biometric, personal health, geolocation, and financial data.

Cyber Defense Agencies from Multiple Countries Release Cloud Computing Threat Advisory

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 11:35:51 -0500

The cyber defense agencies from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand issued a joint alert on increased attempts from a cyber espionage group “almost certainly” tied to Russian intelligence agencies to target corporate and government systems using cloud computing services.

New Report Measures Global Size, Economic Weight of Physical Security Industry

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 11:52:41 -0500

How much is the physical security industry worth? Almost $405 billion in 2023, with more than three-quarters of that tied up in physical security services, including guarding.

Rising Global Tensions and Financial Incentives Make Industrial Environments a Ripe Target for Threat Actors

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 11:01:28 -0500

Rising global tensions and increased financial opportunities are incentivizing threat actors to target industrial environments, according to an annual Operational Technology (OT) cybersecurity report published by Dragos this week.

Massive Data Leak Reveals Methods and Targets of Chinese Government

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 14:22:46 -0500

Chinese police have opened an investigation looking into to last week’s unauthorized online release of documents revealing Chinese authorities’ methods and tools used to hack and spy on both Chinese and foreign nationals.

Russian-U.S. Dual Citizen Detained in Russia on State Treason Charges

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 11:15:54 -0500

The Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) identified the detainee as a 33-year-old woman who lives in Los Angeles, California, claiming that she donated more than $50 to a New York-based nonprofit organization that sends assistance to Ukraine.

UK and U.S. Lead Effort that Disrupts Major Ransomware Syndicate

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 11:42:00 -0500

Law enforcement agencies took over public facing websites of LockBit and released decryption tools that may enable those currently under attack to regain control of their systems.

Experian: Fraudsters will Leverage AI Tools to Access Consumer Accounts in 2024

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 10:31:26 -0500

Fraudsters have their eyes on your online bank account. And they might use generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools to convince you to turn over your credentials to access it.

Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl Parade Scarred by Shooting

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 13:21:03 -0500

A shooting after the parade and rally celebrating the most recent Super Bowl win for the Kansas City Chiefs left one person dead and at least 21 injured.

Two-Thirds of American Jews say United States is Becoming Less Secure

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 09:48:51 -0500

A recent survey of Jewish Americans found that 86 percent believe that anti-Semitism has increased in the United States during the past five years, and 63 percent said the status of Jews in the United States is less secure than a year ago.

Former Employee Opens Fire on Staff and Executives of Greek Shipping Company

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 10:22:26 -0500

A man who had recently been terminated from his position at a shipping company walked into an office building outside of Athens, Greece, and shot and killed three people before taking his own life.

Texas A&M Will Close Qatar Campus, Citing Changing Priorities and Regional Instability

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 11:51:21 -0500

American university Texas A&M announced it would close its branch campus in Qatar by 2028, citing “heightened regional instability” and an effort to focus the university’s core mission back on “educating and serving Texans."

FCC Bans Robocalls Using AI-Generated Voices

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 11:54:03 -0500

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) banned robocalls that use artificial intelligence-generated voices to target consumers without consent in a unanimous decision issued on Thursday.

Global Ransomware Payments Reached $1.1B in 2023

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 09:43:37 -0500

After a notable decrease in payments in 2022 (from $983 million to $567 million), cryptocurrency tracing firm Chainalysis found that ransomware attackers received $1.1 billion from their victims in 2023—the highest number ever observed.

School Shooter’s Mother Convicted of Involuntary Manslaughter

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 09:48:42 -0500

In a first-of-its-kind verdict, a Michigan jury convicted Jennifer Crumbley of involuntary manslaughter in her son’s killing of four high school students in 2021.

U.S. Border Crisis Reaches Far from the Border

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 12:48:43 -0500

The migrant crisis in New York City and other cities far from the Southern border of the United States has become acute. Meanwhile, the political crisis of illegal border crossings seems as intractable as ever with tensions rising.

Wildfires Sweep Across Central Chile

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 12:10:59 -0500

Chilean residents criticized flawed evacuation orders, including alerts that gave evacuation instructions but did not order residents to leave.

FBI: Nation-State Efforts to Damage Critical Infrastructure Disrupted

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 12:16:00 -0500

U.S. officials said they disrupted a state-backed Chinese effort to potentially disrupt and damage civilian infrastructure, including water treatment plants, the electrical grid, and transportation systems.

New U.S. Report Finds Schools Third-Most Common Hate Crime Location

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 11:48:00 -0500

The FBI released its first thorough analysis of hate crimes that occurred at schools. While residential locations and roadways were in the top two slots respectively, elementary schools, secondary schools, colleges, and universities were revealed as the third-most common locations for these crimes from 2018 through 2022.

Pigs, Squirrels, Spiders, and Cannonballs—It Was a Strange Month

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 12:54:08 -0500

A new year continues to bring some strange events from the world of security.

French Farmers Lay Siege to Paris

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 11:38:28 -0500

French farmers intensified their protests on 29 January, blockading all the major roadways leading into Paris. The farmers’ grievances include low prices for agricultural products and escalating costs of energy and supplies, as well as environmental regulations among other issues.

CISO Roles Face Growing Pains as Boards Shine Spotlight on Cyber

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 11:36:09 -0500

While 76 percent of CISOs come from a mostly technical background, where risk management is often secondary, CISOs today are being called to serve as a business risk function, prioritizing business acumen over purely technical skills.

Audit Finds that GSA Purchased Noncompliant Cameras Made in China, Exposing Agency to Security Risks

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 14:21:18 -0500

The report did not name the specific manufacturer of the cameras but did disclose that the cameras are not compliant with the Trade Agreements Act of 1979 (TAA) and that they have known security vulnerabilities that must be addressed with a software update.

6 Former Military Men Arrested in Spain for Luxury Home Thefts

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 12:34:05 -0500

Spanish police arrested six men with military backgrounds who are accused of robbing luxury goods from homes and businesses throughout the southern province of Málaga. Police also recovered a number of jewelry, watches, cash, and weapons.

Lured by Dates, Tourists in Colombia Can Face Drugging, Robbery, and Assault

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 12:04:21 -0500

In the last two months of 2023, eight U.S. citizens visiting Medellín, Colombia, died in suspicious circumstances involving either involuntary drugging overdose or suspected homicide.

Court-Storming Tradition Is a Major Safety Concern

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 12:17:19 -0500

In the latest incident, a distracted Ohio State fan slammed into Iowa’s Caitlin Clark, knocking her violently to the ground.

CISA Issues Emergency Directive to Address Vulnerabilities in Remote Work Software

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 11:51:08 -0500

Two popular software programs used to enable employees to connect remotely to work have a dangerous vulnerability that could potentially grant malicious attackers access to the businesses or government agencies that use the program.

DOJ Report Finds Law Enforcement Greatly Failed in Uvalde School Shooting Response

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 13:34:49 -0500

A U.S. Department of Justice report determined that law enforcement was responsible for “cascading failures of leadership, decision-making, tactics, policy, and training” occurring prior to, during, and after the mass shooting in Uvalde, Texas, that left 19 children and two teachers dead, along with at least 17 more people injured.

Returning to In-Person Education, U.S. Schools Faced Mental Health Professional Shortage, SRO Use Debates in 2021-2022

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 11:14:03 -0500

Schools returning to in-person education in the 2021-2022 school year grappled with violence, social and emotional stress, and a reduction in security personnel such as school resource officers (SROs).

Colorado LGBTQ Nightclub Shooter to Plead Guilty to Federal Hate Crime Charges

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 12:46:02 -0500

As part of a plea agreement that would allow him to avoid the death penalty, the shooter who killed five people at a nightclub in Colorado Springs, Colorado, will plead guilty to 74 new federal charges related to the shooting.

Yemen’s Houthi Militants Continue to Disrupt Commercial Shipping

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 11:17:59 -0500

Yemeni-based Houthi militants continue to harass shipping in the Red Sea area in spite of U.S. and UK-backed attacks on Houthi infrastructure late last week.

eBay Agrees to $3 Million Fine Due to Harassment of Massachusetts Couple

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 12:10:48 -0500

As part of a deferred prosecution agreement, eBay will pay $3 million in fines to dismiss criminal charges of harassment, which involved employees sending a Massachusetts couple threatening messages, as well as boxes with live spiders, cockroaches, and other sinister items.

In a Vital Election Year, Disinformation Woes Top the Chart of Global Risks

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 12:50:20 -0500

Globally, 2024 holds at least 83 elections—the largest concentration for at least the next 24 years. The World Economic Forum warns that an increase in polarization and misinformation risks could complicate democratic efforts.

Ecuador Declares State of Emergency, Triggering Increased Gang Violence

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 14:22:07 -0500

Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa declared a state of emergency for the nation on 8 January, triggering several attacks, explosions, kidnappings, and other violent events. The declaration came after a notable gang leader, Adolfo Macias, escaped from a prison in Guayaquil.

Hotel Explosion Rocks Downtown Fort Worth

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 10:35:14 -0500

Authorities are investigating whether a gas leak caused an explosion at a hotel that rocked downtown Fort Worth, Texas on 8 January. The blast did not cause any fatalities, though 21 people were injured.

UN Issues Somber Economic Forecast, Citing Geopolitical and Environmental Volatility

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 11:47:37 -0500

A "veneer of resilience" is masking short-term risks and structural vulnerabilities in global economic frameworks, warns the United Nations.

Islamic State Claims Credit for Twin Explosions in Iran

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 13:24:45 -0500

The Islamic State (IS) claimed responsibility for the two explosions in Iran that killed at least 84 people during a memorial for an Iranian commander assassinated in a 2020 U.S. drone strike. Recent strikes linked to the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas have raised concerns that the war will spill over throughout the region.

U.S. Statehouses Evacuated After Bomb Threat Hoaxes

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 12:19:32 -0500

U.S. politicians and public figures faced a number of dangerous pranks and hoaxes in recent weeks, including a string of swatting calls and bomb threats against government buildings.

South Korean Opposition Leader Stabbed in the Neck

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 13:49:04 -0500

Lee Jae-myung, a South Korean politician, was stabbed in the neck by an unidentified man on 2 January. The attacker was arrested by nearby police and Lee is recovering from the attack at a Seoul hospital. The knife attack on Lee is one of several incidents involving political figures in recent years.

Increasing Risk Appetites Put Security Front and Center as an Influencer

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 12:57:28 -0500

Polycrisis—the simultaneous occurrence of multiple catastrophic events—puts crisis management in the spotlight. A new report concludes that crisis management is a required skill set across the entire company, and CSOs with exceptional crisis management capabilities can be of wider value in their organizations.

What We’re Watching: Topics on the Horizon for 2024

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 06:00:11 -0500

Here, members of the Security Management team broke out their crystal balls to consider what stories we saw developing in 2023 and what is likely to affect security professionals in 2024 and beyond.

2023 in Review: Security Management Editors’ Favorite Stories

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 06:00:11 -0500

At the end of 2023, the Security Management staff reflected back on the more than 600 articles we wrote this year to pull together our favorite articles, themes, and packages, now wrapped up with a bow for you to peruse.

In a Strange Year, We Look for the Helpers

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 11:13:31 -0500

In our last Strange Security post of 2023, we decided to do a quick roundup of some of the most heartwarming security news that came across the Security Management news chat this year.

New SEC Cyber Incident Reporting Rules Now in Effect

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 11:33:18 -0500

Publicly traded companies will now have four business days to report a “material” cyber incident to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The SEC’s new set of rules went into effect on 18 December.

Michigan State University Settles with Families of Mass Shooting Victims

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 12:03:10 -0500

On 15 December, trustees at MSU approved a $15 million settlement with the families of the three students killed in a February 2023 mass shooting. The university has also enhanced security across the campus after the attack.

Hong Kong Announces Bounties on Five Pro-Democracy Activists, Including a U.S. Citizen

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 11:14:09 -0500

Authorities in Hong Kong announced individual HK$1 million ($128,000) rewards for information that resulted in the arrests of five pro-democracy activists living abroad.

EU Reaches Deal for Comprehensive AI Rules

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 11:51:39 -0500

The negotiators had to overcome big differences on generative AI and police use of facial recognition surveillance for the agreement, balancing the needs for privacy, safety, and innovation.

The Netherlands' Counterterrorism Agency Says There's a "Substantial" Chance of Terrorist Attack

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 11:16:07 -0500

The Netherlands’ counterterrorism agency raised the nation’s threat alert to the second-highest level on 12 December, the first time it has done so since 2019. The alert was increased in response to fallout from the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

News on China Highlights Its Extensive Role in Political and Commercial Affairs

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 13:22:23 -0500

A look at a day in the news shows how one of the world’s economic superpowers works to influence global events.

Massachusetts Files Lawsuit Against Neo-Nazi Group for Violence and Harassment During Drag Events

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 12:31:05 -0500

The Massachusetts attorney general is suing the Nationalist Social Club, also known as NSC-131, after they allegedly attempted to disrupt events and harass people in violation of state civil rights laws.

Pro-Russian Disinformation Campaign Tries to Erode Sympathy for Ukraine With Celebrities

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 12:01:21 -0500

As part of its ongoing hybrid war against Ukraine—fighting on the ground as well as through cyber and influence campaigns—Russia is leveraging celebrities’ influence to try to hamper support for Ukraine.

Half of 23andMe Users Affected by Credential Stuffing Attack

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 10:55:52 -0500

Personal genetic testing and ancestry tracing company 23andMe is dealing with the fallout of a credential stuffing attack that enabled hackers to access data from nearly half of its 14 million users.

Military Air Strike Leaves 85 Civilians Dead in Nigeria

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 14:19:24 -0500

A military drone attack mistakenly killed at least 85 civilians who were gathered to observe a Muslim holiday on Sunday night in Kaduna, Nigeria.

Retail Security Officer Dies in Philadelphia Stabbing Incident

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 12:38:47 -0500

A security guard working at the Center City Macy’s in Philadelphia died and another was injured after being stabbed by a would-be shoplifter on 4 December. The incident highlights the heightened security environment faced by retailers during the holidays.

Russian Supreme Court Declares LGBT Movement an Extremist Organization

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 12:20:53 -0500

Russia declared the “international LGBT public movement” an extremist organization, despite the fact that no such organization legally exists. Human rights groups warn the vague declaration could give authorities broad leeway to target LGBTQ individuals and groups for detention or persecution.

Themes Emerge When Collecting Strange Security Stories

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 07:00:10 -0500

In this 19th installment of Strange Security, we look at kids behaving badly, adults behaving badly, animals having a bad day, and other strange security-adjacent news we saw in November.

Research Finds Shoplifting is Declining in Many U.S. Cities

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 10:55:27 -0500

Out of the 24 cities assessed by the Council on Criminal Justice, 17 reported decreases in shoplifting in the first half of 2023 compared to the same period in 2019.

Finland to Close All Road Border Crossing Points With Russia

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 13:38:13 -0500

Finland announced it was closing all its border crossing points with Russia, accusing its neighbor of funneling asylum seekers to threaten the country’s national security.

U.S., UK Release Guidelines to Ensure Security Is Baked into Artificial Intelligence

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 13:32:14 -0500

The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the UK National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) jointly released “Guidelines for Secure AI System Development,” a set of broad guidelines designed to make security considerations an essential, primary concern when developing any artificial intelligence (AI) framework or use application.

Hamas-Israel Hostage Exchange and Ceasefire Progresses

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 12:13:48 -0500

So far, 39 Israeli hostages have been released by Hamas under the terms of the truce, and Israel released 117 Palestinian detainees.

Europol Opens OSINT Taskforce to Help with Russia-Ukraine War Crimes Investigations

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 11:46:22 -0500

The use of social media and Internet communication during the Russia-Ukraine war resulted in an unprecedented level of open-source intelligence (OSINT) about alleged war crimes.

Houthis from Yemen Seize Ship in Red Sea in Sign of Broadening Mideast Hostility

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 12:45:56 -0500

On 19 November, Houthi rebels from Yemen seized a cargo ship in the Red Sea and diverted it to the port of Hodeidah, Yemen. The action follows through on the rebels’ threat last week to attack Israeli vessels in response to Israel’s actions in Gaza.

Security Officer Killed in Shooting at New Hampshire Hospital

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 12:16:30 -0500

A security officer was shot and killed on the afternoon of 17 November at a New Hampshire psychiatric hospital after a man opened fire in the lobby.

Dutch and German Police Arrest 8 Suspects in Violent ATM Bombings and Thefts

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 11:54:02 -0500

On 15 November, Dutch and German law enforcement arrested eight people allegedly responsible for several violent ATM robberies in Germany which have caused at least €3.5 million in property damage and the theft of €2 million. Forcing cash machines open with bombs has become a trend among thieves targeting German ATMs during the past few years.

North American Companies Dive into Continent’s Largest Grid Security Exercise

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 12:12:02 -0500

Multi-day training and tabletop exercise GridEx provides electricity providers, government agencies, and other organizations an opportunity to exercise their emergency response and recovery plans as part of a simulated cyber and physical security attack affecting the North American grid.

Climate Change Responsible for $150 Billion in Damage in the U.S. Every Year

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 12:46:53 -0500

The U.S. government announced the publication of the latest National Climate Assessment on 14 November, the product of several scientists from U.S. agencies, industries, and universities. The report lays out the current and future risks that climate change is expected to have on the nation.

Polysubstance Drug Abuse Complicates Opioid Addiction Policies

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 10:21:11 -0500

America’s drug overdose epidemic has entered a dangerous new phase characterized by use of drug combinations that make dosages more lethal, overdose treatment less successful, and addictions even harder to treat.

Cyberattack Disrupts Operations at Four Australian Ports

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 11:21:49 -0500

Shipping firm DP World Australia manages around 40 percent of goods entering and leaving the country, but a cyberattack crippled the firm’s ports this weekend, disrupting operations at container terminals in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth.

Italian, U.S. Law Enforcement Arrest 16 Alleged Crime Family Members

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 10:34:34 -0500

Italian and U.S. law enforcement joined forces to coordinate a campaign to investigate and arrest 16 alleged leaders and associates of the Gambino crime family on charges that include racketeering, extortion, witness retaliation, conspiracy, and fraud.

Ex-CIA Officer Pleads Guilty to Sexually Assaulting Dozens of Women

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 12:55:49 -0500

Former CIA officer Brian Jeffrey Raymond submitted a guilty plea in a federal trial where he is accused of drugging and sexually assaulting at least two dozen women.

Italy, Albania Announce Agreement to House Migrants Prior to Processing

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 11:59:48 -0500

Italy, facing a surge of migration from Africa across the Mediterranean, will build compounds in Albania where migrants will wait to be processed.

Despite Red Flags, Alerts, and Reporting, U.S. Mass Shooters Evade Early Intervention

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 11:46:29 -0500

At least seven out of 2023’s 10 deadliest mass killings in the United States so far were carried out by attackers who exhibited some form of concerning behavior in the months or years prior to their attacks.

Crypto Exchange Founder Convicted on Conspiracy and Fraud Charges

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 11:54:33 -0400

Cryptocurrency exchange founder Sam Bankman-Fried was convicted on seven charges, including stealing customer funds to offset losses at crypto hedge fund Alameda Research; lying to investors and lenders; and money laundering.

SEC Files Charges Against SolarWinds and Its CISO for Fraudulent Cybersecurity Disclosures

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 11:31:15 -0400

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filed charges against SolarWinds and its chief information security officer for allegedly understating cybersecurity risks to stakeholders and missing numerous warning signs about potential threats.

Mass Evacuations Begin from Gaza into Egypt

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 11:58:10 -0400

After a border crossing between Gaza and Egypt was allowed to open on an exceptional basis on 1 November 2023, dozens of critically injured and sick people were accepted into Egypt for treatment. Others allowed to cross into Egypt included foreign passport-holders and dual nationals, according to the United Nations.

An Absurd October Comes to a Close

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 11:27:38 -0400

This month’s Strange Security features 16,500 pounds of U.S. coinage, robot wolves used to scare bears, and, well, other absurd things.

White House Announces AI Executive Order

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 13:20:08 -0400

The White House announced a new executive order on Monday that tackles the risks and potentials of artificial intelligence. Many of the actions in the order focus on matters of national security, privacy, and supporting the workforce.

More Wind Power, More Problems

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 11:05:20 -0400

Rising above the Baltic Sea and less than six miles (10 kilometers) from the coast of Denmark, the 161 wind turbines of the Nysted wind farm are largely undefended.

Law Enforcement Hunt Continues for Mass Shooting Suspect in Maine

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 11:57:37 -0400

Swaths of the U.S. state of Maine are on lockdown today after a mass shooter attacked a restaurant and a bowling alley in Lewiston, Maine, last night at around 7:00 p.m. local time.

Hurricane Otis Hits Mexico After Historic Rapid Intensification

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 12:41:25 -0400

Although Otis was rated as a tropical storm on Tuesday, within 12 hours it intensified into a Category 5. It’s heavy rain and high winds have centered on the popular tourist destination of Acapulco and the surrounding communities.

Europol Analyzes the Threats and Opportunities of Quantum Computing

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 10:54:23 -0400

A new report from Europol notes recent work to advance quantum computing capabilities and examines the potential opportunities and threats the technology represents.

Geopolitical and Economic Headwinds Force CEOs to Rethink Long-Term Strategies

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 12:42:31 -0400

Nearly 40 percent of global CEOs believe their organization will no longer be economically viable in 10 years—unless it significantly changes course. So, what does this mean for security?

Police Share Body Camera Footage of Driver Who Attacked Chinese Consulate

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 12:48:02 -0400

San Francisco police offered the first official details about the attacker who crashed his car at the Chinese Consulate earlier this month. During a virtual town hall, police publicly shared body camera footage from responding officers, as well as 911 calls about the incident.

Climate Activists Arrested at London Protest of Oil Conference

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 11:35:18 -0400

British police detained climate protesters who were trying to block access to the site of the Energy Intelligence Forum in London, England. Like other nations, the UK has increased penalties against protesters.

Three People Plead Guilty to $38 Million Catalytic Converter Theft Scheme

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 10:51:31 -0400

Catalytic converters use precious metals, such as palladium, platinum, and rhodium—these are the reason for the high rate of theft. Depending on the device, the black-market price for converters can be more than $1,000 each.

According to FBI Data, U.S. Was Less Violent in 2022 than 2021

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 11:02:15 -0400

The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation released its crime data report for 2022, which compiles crime statistics from 13,293 law enforcement agencies across the country, showing a decrease in violent crimes.

Israel–Hamas War Ratchets Up Extremist Tensions Worldwide

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 11:32:04 -0400

Law enforcement and security professionals are on the lookout for emerging and escalating threats of violence in the wake of the Hamas attack on Israel and the subsequent war.

U.S. Security Company Sues Air Canada for Negligence in $15 Million Theft

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 12:05:43 -0400

In April 2023 a thief walked into an airport and managed to leave with more than C$20 million ($15 million) in gold bars and cash. The security company hired to coordinate the goods’ shipment is laying the blame on Air Canada.

Hacking Human Trafficking

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 11:52:52 -0400

In a three-day operation in The Netherlands, 85 experts—representing 26 countries and four law enforcement organizations—targeted online criminal efforts that exploit people into human trafficking.

Number of Firearms Confiscated in U.S. Schools Rising Sharply

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 13:36:17 -0400

News reports identified more than 1,150 guns brought to U.S. K-12 school campuses but seized before they were fired in the 2022-23 school year, according to a Washington Post investigation.

Hamas Attack on Israel Has Global Ramifications

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 15:55:12 -0400

On 7 October 2023, Hamas attacked Israel killing hundreds and injuring thousands. As Israel declares war in response, the conflict has vast ramifications for the world.

California Ups the Ante on Workplace Violence Prevention Programs

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 11:57:25 -0400

California businesses will soon be subject to new requirements to maintain workplace safety while providing new tools to prohibit threatening actors from entering workplace environments.

Who's on Strike? Mapping Labor Disputes Across Manufacturing, Healthcare, and Hollywood

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 15:11:09 -0400

So far, four different unions, which together represent more than 390,000 workers, have gone on strike in the past few months. While some strikes have ended, others are just getting started and could significantly impact their industry and businesses’ operations.

Report: Cybersecurity Budget Growth Slows but Doesn’t Stall

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 10:30:11 -0400

Of the CISOs whose budgets increased, 80 percent said the main driver of additional funds was something other than typical annual changes, such as a security incident, company repositioning, or a major industry disruption.

UN Security Council Endorses Kenyan-Led Mission to Stabilize Haiti

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 11:39:30 -0400

On 2 October, the United Nations Security Council approved a resolution in support of a multinational security mission led by Kenya to bring security and stability to gang-ravaged Haiti.

A River of Wine and Cell Phone Shenanigans Pace This Month’s Strange Security

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 13:44:39 -0400

There was plenty of strange, unusual, or otherwise notable security-related news in September. Here’s a selection from our editors.

Suicide Bombings Disturb Celebrations in Pakistan in Latest String of Violent Attacks

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 11:32:42 -0400

Suicide bombers killed at least 57 people and injured nearly 77 others in explosions on Friday in Pakistan during celebrations of the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday.

Sport Spectators Open to Security Ticket Fees and Facial Recognition

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 12:01:21 -0400

Recent findings from an NCS4 survey indicated that spectators at live sport events would welcome greater visible security measures, including facial recognition or verification, and would be willing to pay a nominal security surcharge in their ticket fees to support security budgets.

Study Shows Online Marijuana Dispensary Sales Have Lax Age Oversight

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 12:14:40 -0400

Researchers from the Cohen Children’s Medical Center of New York (Lake Success, New York) studied age-verification procedures and the potential for youth acquisition of marijuana through online dispensaries.

Facial Recognition at Brazilian Soccer Stadium Helps Police Arrest 28 Criminals

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 11:59:47 -0400

A facial recognition system at the Allianz Parque football stadium in Brazil enabled the arrest of multiple criminals, authorities say.

Civil Rights Group Files Suit to Discontinue Terrorism Watchlist Created After 9/11

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 14:00:53 -0400

A civil rights group sued U.S. federal government officials this week alleging a terrorist watchlist is used for “harassment and humiliation” and should be discontinued.

Killing of Sikh Activist Strains Canada-India Relations

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 12:02:27 -0400

The murder of Sikh independence advocate Hardeep Singh Nijjar, which Canada has accused India of orchestrating, is straining international relations. Both nations have expelled diplomats while significant Canadian allies watch from the sidelines.

Australia Poised to Face Another Summer of Harsh Bushfires

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 11:07:14 -0400

Weather experts in Australia are warning that the country should brace itself for the hottest, driest period since the summer of 2019 and 2020, when broad swaths of southeastern Australia were destroyed by bushfires.

Drone Swarms: The Good, The Bad, and The Terrifying Future

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 14:52:14 -0400

The combination of increasing uncrewed vehicle capability at low costs, the light-speed acceleration of AI sophistication, and the ever-present imagination of humans drives a new era of opportunity and potentially catastrophic threat.

Arsonists Hit Belgian Schools in Protest of Sex Education Program

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 11:20:31 -0400

So far, eight schools in Belgium have been targets of arson or graffiti against the Education in Relational, Affective, and Sexual Life (EVRAS) program, which is based on a 300-page guide some groups have criticized for its sexual content.

Bringing Down the House: Cyber Actors Breach Vegas Casinos

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 11:52:56 -0400

Caesars Entertainment disclosed a cyber incident to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) that may have compromised customer information but did not affect its physical properties.

Today’s Legal Roundup: Memphis Police Charged in Murder of Tyre Nichols, EL Chapo's Wife, and More

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 10:02:30 -0400

As security professionals convened in Dallas, Texas, this week for the 2023 GSX Conference, and Security Management staff worked to bring you the GSX Daily, we shifted the focus of Today in Security away from a deeper analysis of a single news story to a quick round-up of several of the news stories affecting the world of security.

Today’s Roundup: Devastating Floods in Libya, Deepfakes, Manhunt Ends, and More

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 10:14:06 -0400

As security professionals convene in Dallas, Texas, this week for the 2023 GSX Conference, and Security Management staff work to bring you the GSX Daily, we will shift the Today in Security focus away from a deeper analysis of a single news story to a quick round-up of several of the news stories affecting the world of security.

Today’s Roundup: Security Spending Hikes, New COVID Shots, Cyber Issues at MGM, and More

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 09:47:41 -0400

Today’s Roundup: Morocco Earthquake Update, Europol Crime Report, and More

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 10:01:52 -0400

Militants Attack Military Camps, Civilian River Boat in Mali

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 11:38:42 -0400

Militants attacked a military camp in northern Mali on Friday, just a day after two other assaults by terrorist-linked groups killed nearly 60 people.

Prisoner Escapes Put London, Pennsylvania, and DC on High Alert

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 11:59:09 -0400

Escaped prisoners and suspects have been popping up in the Security Management news feed. According to reports, aspects of the getaways sounded like a scene out of a movie, with escapees scaling walls, slipping out of police custody, or clinging to the underside of cars.

61 People Indicted on Racketeering Charges Related to “Cop City” Protests

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 11:23:26 -0400

In the latest legal action in the Cop City drama, 61 activists were indicted by a Georgia grand jury in a sprawling racketeering case.

Algeria Confirms Coast Guard Fired on Moroccan Tourists, Killing Two

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 10:26:12 -0400

Last week, four tourists departed the Moroccan resort town of Saidia on three jet skis. On Sunday, several days after the incident, the Algerian defense ministry issued a statement saying its coast guard issued a warning that went unheeded, then fired at the men who had strayed into Algerian waters.

Respect the Grandmas. And the Kickers.

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 11:06:03 -0400

There was plenty of strange, unusual, or otherwise notable security-related news in August. Here’s a selection from our editors.

Watchdog Records Shootings in 40 U.S. States in 72 Hours

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 13:24:41 -0400

Gun violence in the United States continues to endanger the country’s citizens. Here is a round-up of incidents that occurred throughout the nation this week.

UN: Human Trafficking for Cyber Scam Mills Grows in Southeast Asia

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 12:26:57 -0400

Hundreds of thousands of people have been trafficked into online criminal schemes across Southeast Asia, according to a new report from the United Nations Human Rights Office.

Polish Pranksters or Russian Saboteurs? Train Incidents in Poland Under Investigation

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 09:43:30 -0400

In separate but seemingly related incidents over the weekend, Poland trains received fake stop signals. The incidents come on the heels of several other events that put the European country sharing a border with Ukraine and Belarus on edge.

FBI Investigating Jacksonville Dollar General Shooting as a Hate Crime, Act of Racially-Motivated Extremism

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 11:51:53 -0400

The FBI is investigating a Saturday afternoon shooting as a hate crime after a man used a swastika-emblazoned firearm to shoot and kill three Black people at a Dollar General in Jacksonville, Florida, before killing himself.

EU Regulations Go into Effect, Requiring Risk Assessments and Mitigation Measures from Large Tech Companies

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 11:12:21 -0400

New European Union regulations went into effect today for large technology companies and search engines, requiring them to assess potential risks their platforms may cause and implement measures to deal with those risks.

Wagner Leader Prigozhin Reported Dead in Plane Crash

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 11:40:00 -0400

A business jet traveling on Wednesday from Moscow, Russia, to St. Petersburg crashed in the Tver region, killing all 10 people on board. Among the list of passengers reportedly on the flight was Yevgeny Prigozhin, chief of the Wagner mercenary group and former ally to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Extreme Weather Fries U.S. Midwest, Floods Southwest

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 11:38:53 -0400

As of today, 23 August 2023, 99,964,263 people in the United States are currently under extreme weather alerts, according to the Union of Concerned Scientists, and the United States is hardly the only country facing some extreme climate risks.

Influence of Group Promoting Constitutional Supremacy of Local Sheriffs Reaches Far

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 11:49:08 -0400

A new report published by the Associated Press highlights the growing influence in rural communities across the United States of a controversial organization that promotes the notion that the nation’s elected sheriffs have broad, sweeping constitutional power.

Multinational Cyber Investigation Disrupts Thousands of Illicit Networks

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 11:44:41 -0400

Operation Africa Cyber Surge II spanned 25 African countries and led to the arrest of 14 suspected cybercriminals and the identification of 20,674 suspicious cyber networks linked to financial losses of more than $40 million USD.

Twenty Thousand People Ordered to Evacuate as Wildfire Nears Northwest Territories Capital

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 11:16:15 -0400

Twenty thousand people are under an evacuation order as wildfire neared the capital of Canada’s Northwest Territories on Friday.

British Museum Launches Security Review After Potential Theft, Misplacement of 3,000 Artifacts

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 12:16:20 -0400

The British Museum has opened an independent review of its security after roughly 3,000 artifacts “were found to be missing, stolen, or damaged." The museum announced that it had dismissed a member of its staff and would be taking legal action against the former employee.

FBI Issues Warning of Beta-Testing App Scams

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 11:06:42 -0400

The FBI issued a warning earlier this week that cybercriminals are embedding malicious code in mobile beta-testing apps to defraud potential victims.

Radicalism Persists in Afghanistan Threatening the Region and Beyond

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 15:55:56 -0400

When U.S.-led coalition forces left Afghanistan two years ago, the country quickly fell under Taliban control. Two years later, many of the men who became zealous jihadi fighters did not adapt to a role in governing the country and instead turned their passion and aggression to continue fighting their holy war.

Hawaii Wildfires Spark Frustrations Over Emergency Notification, Resources

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 10:59:52 -0400

There are 80 outdoor sirens on Maui designed to warn residents of tsunamis and natural disasters, but evacuees said they did not hear any sirens or receive any official notice to evacuate as the fires moved in.

Ecuador Arrests Six Suspected of Role in Assassination of Villavicencio

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 11:27:45 -0400

Ecuadorian authorities arrested six Colombian suspects in connection with the assassination of a presidential candidate on Wednesday at a political rally.

Soccer Fans Face Murder Charges After Deadly Clash Leaves Fan Dead

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 12:43:14 -0400

More than 100 soccer fans face criminal charges in an Athens court after a Greek man was fatally stabbed outside the Agia Sophia Stadium before a qualifying match of the Union of European Football Associations Champions League.

U.S. Supreme Court Revives Ghost Gun Regulation

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 10:47:00 -0400

The U.S. Supreme Court temporarily revived the Biden administration’s regulation of ghost guns—kits that can be bought online and used to build untraceable homemade guns that lack serial numbers.

China Announces Facial Recognition Regulations

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 11:46:06 -0400

The Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) released a draft set of regulations on the use of facial recognition in an attempt to put limits on the increased use of the technology in the country.

Thousands of U.S. Troops Arrive in Red Sea in Response to Tanker Tensions

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 11:41:29 -0400

The United States alleges that Iran seized or tried to seize nearly 20 internationally flagged civilian ships in the past two years. The U.S. military is responding by sending more than 3,000 personnel into the area.

NYC Couple Pled Guilty to Conspiring to Steal 120,000 Bitcoin in Bitfinex Hack

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 10:54:32 -0400

A New York City couple pled guilty on Thursday to conspiring to hack into a major cryptocurrency exchange and steal 120,000 Bitcoin.

Continued Coup in Niger Initiates Evacuations From Embassies

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 12:20:09 -0400

A week after Niger’s presidential administration announced that members of the presidential guard were attempting a coup, Western nations evacuated citizens from the country.

Trump Faces New Charges for Obstruction and Conspiracy About Election Fraud, 6 January Riots

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 12:07:22 -0400

Former U.S. President Donald Trump now faces a third indictment, notably on charges that he participated in a conspiracy to overturn the 2020 election results, including by exploiting angry crowds who stormed the U.S. Capitol building on 6 January.

There Be Thieving Afoot!

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 13:38:08 -0400

This month's Strange Security examines all the strange things that people have stolen recently (and strange things they've done while, allegedly, perpetuating the crime).

New Jersey School District Settles Student Bullying Death Lawsuit for $9.1 Million

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 12:24:29 -0400

Mallory Grossman was 12 years old when she died by suicide. Just hours before, Copeland Middle School officials said Grossman was "not safe" at school due to ongoing bullying and sent her home.

SEC Adopts New Cyber Incident Disclosure, Transparency Requirements for Registrants

Fri, 28 Jul 2023 12:07:08 -0400

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) adopted final rules Wednesday that require registrants to disclose material cybersecurity incidents within four business days and be more transparent about their cybersecurity posture.

Scientists Announce July is Hottest Month Ever

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 12:21:45 -0400

July temperatures have scientists calculating that it will be the hottest globally and probably the warmest in human history. Here's what employers should watch for to keep workers safe.

2016 Brussels Bombing Trial Concludes; Six Found Guilty of Terrorist Murder

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 11:44:58 -0400

Six men were found guilty of terrorist murder for their involvement in the March 2016 suicide bombing at the Brussels airport and a metro station. The attacks killed 32 people in a wave of attacks in Europe linked to an Islamic State terror cell.

Protests Erupt in Israel as Legislature Passes First Judicial Reform Act

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 12:32:33 -0400

On Monday, Israel’s legislature passed a highly contentious measure limiting the power of the nation’s Supreme Court, reigniting major protests in several cities that lasted well into the night and threatening to disrupt everything from basic services to medical care to national security.

NYC Aims to Settle George Floyd Protest Arrests Lawsuit for $13 Million

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 12:25:43 -0400

New York City agreed last week to pay $13 million to hundreds of people who were arrested or beaten during a series of demonstrations in 2020. If the settlement is approved, it will be the largest class action settlement ever paid to protesters in the United States.

Major Tech Companies Commit to Voluntarily Regulate Development of Artificial Intelligence

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 12:41:13 -0400

Seven major technology companies agreed to a plan to voluntarily regulate their development of artificial intelligence (AI), the White House announced Friday morning.

New Zealand Shooting Leaves Three Dead Prior to Women's World Cup

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 12:41:25 -0400

A shooting in the downtown area of Auckland, New Zealand, left two people and the gunman dead hours before the first match of the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

U.S. Launches Effort to Help Consumers Gauge IoT Device Cybersecurity

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 10:39:16 -0400

To help keep consumers informed about cybersecurity when making IoT device purchases, the White House announced a new cybersecurity certification and labeling program Tuesday—the U.S. Cyber Trust Mark program.

French National Assembly Considering Bill to Allow Authorities to Access Suspects’ Personal Devices

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 12:43:00 -0400

The French National Assembly is expected to pass a justice reform bill today that will, among other things, allow French authorities to tap a suspect’s Internet-connected devices, enabling police to identify the device’s location, as well as access any microphones and cameras it has.

Black Sea Grain Deal Lapses, Reigniting Food Insecurity Fears

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 12:55:26 -0400

UN projections show that there are around 23 million more undernourished people today than in a scenario in which the war in Ukraine had not happened.

White House Releases Plan to Implement National Cybersecurity Strategy

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 12:13:48 -0400

After months of speculation, U.S. President Joe Biden’s administration announced it has an implementation plan for the National Cybersecurity Strategy released earlier this year.

Extreme Climate Roundup: Global Temperatures Break Records, Endanger Lives

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 13:08:38 -0400

We are experiencing the highest temperatures recorded for the planet. And the impacts of that are being seen across the world this week.

Cyber Espionage Attack Targeted U.S. Government Email Accounts

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 11:40:22 -0400

Email accounts at approximately 25 organizations—including U.S. government agencies—were affected by a targeted cyberattack during the past month. A hacking group based in China is the alleged culprit.

EU and U.S. Reach Another Privacy Agreement, and the Threat of Legal Action Continues

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 13:24:45 -0400

Three years after a European Union (EU) court smashed the Privacy Shield that governed privacy protections of EU citizens by tech companies in the United States, the European Commission announced a new EU-U.S. Data Privacy Framework yesterday.

El Paso, Texas, Mass Shooter Gets 90 Life Sentences

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 11:56:26 -0400

The shooter admitted to driving more than 650 miles from his home in the Dallas area to the border city of El Paso, Texas, in search of Hispanic victims.

South Korean Officials Green Light Plan to Release Fukushima Wastewater into the Pacific Ocean

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 12:55:27 -0400

South Korean officials pledged their support on Friday for a controversial plan to release wastewater from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station into the Pacific Ocean.

Japan's Busiest Port Restarts Operations After Ransomware Attack

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 12:01:57 -0400

Japan’s Port of Nagoya is gradually resuming operations after a ransomware attack disrupted operations earlier this week. With five container terminals that feature 21 piers and 290 berths, the port handles the largest amount of cargo for the nation, roughly 177.79 million tons.

Fireworks and Gunfire Mark Independence Day Weekend in United States

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 10:39:42 -0400

From 1 through 4 July, there were at least 15 incidents of mass shootings in the United States, according to the Gun Violence Archive. The shootings killed 17 people and injured 90 others.

Extreme Heat Waves and Deaths Drive Concerns About Workplace Safety

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 12:37:52 -0400

Hundreds of people in the United States die from heat-related causes every year, and the U.S. Department of Labor announced a “national emphasis” program last year to focus on the issue as it relates to workplaces, warning that “heat illness—exacerbated by our climate’s rising temperatures—presents a growing hazard for millions of workers.”

Florida Jury Acquits Former Parkland SRO of All Charges

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 12:14:41 -0400

A Florida jury acquitted former school resource officer (SRO) Scot Peterson of all charges for failing to act during the Parkland school shooting that killed 17 people.

He Was Just Doing His Job, but Wow What a Tackle!

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 12:05:37 -0400

Celebration of first Canadian to win the Canadian Open golf tournament in 69 years takes a turn when security roughly tackles a celebrant—and other strange security news stories from June.

France to Deploy 40,000 Police Officers to Crack Down on Civil Unrest After Shooting Death of Teen

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 11:58:36 -0400

France will deploy 40,000 police officers across the country after two days of protests following the law enforcement shooting of a teenager in Paris.

U.S. Supreme Court Sets New Standard for Prosecuting Online Threatening Language

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 11:00:42 -0400

The U.S. Supreme Court clarified First Amendment protections, ruling that prosecutors must now demonstrate that the defendant demonstrated a reckless state of mind when making a threatening statement.

U.S. Agencies’ ‘Failure of Imagination’ Partly Responsible for Capitol Attack Intelligence Missteps

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 12:30:00 -0400

U.S. government agencies disregarded or downplayed large amounts of intelligence information before the 6 January 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol, due in part to a failure of imagination to see threats to breach the building as credible.

UN Warns of Heightened Drug Use and Convergent Crime Risks

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 12:16:50 -0400

World drug problems do not affect all corners of the world equally, and this edition of the UNODC World Drug Report seeks to highlight the complexity behind evolving drug threats.

Counterterrorism Experts Single Out West Africa as Global Terrorism Hotspot

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 12:39:05 -0400

Even though al Qaeda and Islamic State affiliates remain active in different regions, “Africa has emerged as the key battleground for terrorism, with a major increase in the number of active groups operating on the continent,” said UN Assistant Secretary-General Khaled Khiari.

What to Know About the U.S. Pregnant Workers Fairness Act

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 13:34:35 -0400

The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) kicks into effect on 27 June 2023. Here’s what U.S. employers need to know about the new law.

New Section Enhances U.S. Justice Department’s Cyber Threat Response Capabilities

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 11:29:15 -0400

The new National Security Cyber Section—known as NatSec Cyber—of cyber-focused prosecutors will “give us the horsepower and organizational structure we need to carry out key roles of the Department in this arena,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen.

Quiet Quitting and Disengagement Persist Despite Improved Workplace Outlook

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 10:26:05 -0400

The world’s workforce continues a slow emotional rebound from the shock induced by the COVID-19 pandemic, though the number of mostly disengaged workers is proving to be a stubborn problem for employers.

Flight Path Compromised: New Research Reveals Drone Vulnerability

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 12:47:00 -0400

What if you could physically manipulate a high-quality drone to corrupt its memory, gain control of it, and potentially leak its data? Security research firm IOActive put that theory to the test.

Slow Eruption From Philippines' Mayon Volcano Displaces Tens of Thousands

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 11:43:39 -0400

An ongoing volcanic eruption on a Philippine island is displacing tens of thousands of residents, with authorities estimating that the event could emit lava, ash, and noxious fumes for weeks or months.

Alone, Together: Diffuse Actors Increasingly Inspire EU Terror Attacks

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 13:07:31 -0400

Jihadist terrorism continues to be the main terrorism concern in the European Union, even as affiliation to known terrorism groups becomes less prominent among supporters, according to an annual Europol report published Wednesday.

UN Report: Biased Gender Social Norms Continue to Undervalue Women

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 15:33:30 -0400

A new report from the United Nations Development Program, the 2023 Gender Social Norms Index, quantifies the ways societal attitudes foster gender inequity and reinforce biases that limit the opportunities available to women. The report shows society has made very little progress in the last 10 years.

South Korea Cracks Down on IP Thefts

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 14:03:46 -0400

A host of recent cases, many of them allegedly involving Chinese companies or the Chinese government, highlight the ongoing struggle to keep foreign competitors and adversaries from stealing important and lucrative intellectual property.

Verizon DBIR: Threat Actors Leveraged the Human Element to Steal Corporate Data in 2022

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 12:20:52 -0400

Overall, 74 percent of the breaches analyzed in the annual report included the human element—errors, privilege misuse, stolen credentials, and social engineering.

How to Protect Your Security Team from Wildfire Smoke Exposure

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 14:26:06 -0400

How can leaders keep their employees safe from wildfire smoke? These general steps on smoke mitigation can also apply to other environmental hazards.

€87M of Counterfeit Goods Seized Across Europe in Multinational Operation

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 10:41:59 -0400

Nearly 2 million items of counterfeit clothing, shoes, accessories, and other garments were seized in a recent Europol-coordinated operation. That’s a lot of knockoffs.

Is California Property Becoming Uninsurable?

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 12:06:31 -0400

Disasters that have increased in frequency and devastation due to climate change are driving major changes in property insurance markets. Allstate is the latest company to confirm it no longer issues new policies in California.

India Launches In-Depth Investigation into Deadly Train Collision

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 10:34:05 -0400

At least 275 people are dead and nearly 1,200 injured following a major three-train collision in eastern India on 2 June. The derailment was caused by an error in the electronic signaling system, investigators said.

Most U.S. Teachers Say Physical Security Measures Have Positive Impact, But Oppose Carrying Firearms at School

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 09:01:38 -0400

Most U.S. teachers said the physical security measures at their school provide a positive impact on school climate, but they are opposed to educators carrying firearms on campus, according to a new national survey.

FTC Fines Amazon $30.8 Million for Multiple Privacy Violations

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 12:48:48 -0400

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission ordered Amazon to pay a $25 million fine for deceiving parents about the company’s data deletion practices, especially over children's voice information. The company has also reached a separate settlement agreement for allowing employees to have broad access to data from its Ring cameras.

Animals Behaving Badly

Wed, 31 May 2023 11:54:58 -0400

This month in Strange Security focuses on animals causing all kinds of havoc, from traffic-stopping incidents to animals just trying to get a snack.

Uganda Enacts Law Making Some Same-Sex Acts Punishable by Death

Tue, 30 May 2023 12:53:36 -0400

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni ignores the condemnations from other nations and signs law that makes gay sex punishable by 10 years in prison, while anyone convicted of “aggravated homosexuality” will face execution.

Record €1.2 billion Fine Against Meta Marks Five Years of GDPR Enforcement

Fri, 26 May 2023 12:45:11 -0400

Five years into compliance enforcement, data protection authorities fined Meta a record €1.2 billion ($1.3 billion) for data sharing practices that violate the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Target Removes Pride Merchandise in Face of Workplace Violence Threats

Thu, 25 May 2023 10:33:39 -0400

After receiving threats to workplace safety, retail giant Target pulled some of its Pride products from the shelves.

What a Worker Wants

Wed, 24 May 2023 08:15:23 -0400

Many factors color a worker’s feelings about a job, including health insurance, vacation time, co-worker friendliness, opportunities for advancement, and the social impact of the work. But pay is still the top factor.

Case in China Highlights the Need for Legal Framework to Deal with Deepfakes

Tue, 23 May 2023 13:21:43 -0400

A man used artificial intelligence to change his appearance and voice to convince someone to transfer hundreds of thousands of dollars. The fraud happened in China, which already has the most detailed deepfake laws of any country.

Hyundai and Kia Reach Tentative Settlement for Vehicle Vulnerability and Thefts

Mon, 22 May 2023 11:44:02 -0400

The $200 million settlement will compensate customers who suffered theft-related losses or damage not covered by insurance, and it will reimburse insurance deductibles, increased premiums, and other losses.

El Niño, Greenhouse Gases Likely to Cause Record-Level Temperatures Over Next Five Years

Fri, 19 May 2023 11:16:33 -0400

As the northern hemisphere moves from spring to summer, the world is heating up and likely to hit record temperature levels during the next five years, according to new research from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

Legal Roundup: Bike Path Terrorist Sentenced; Google, Twitter Not Liable for Terrorist -Related Content; Jewel Heist Thieves Convicted

Thu, 18 May 2023 16:12:26 -0400

This week has seen a hefty number of news items where the legal environment and security intersect—from court decisions to vetoed bills to investigations, and more.

Creating an Upstander Culture: New Toolkit Aims to Improve School Safety Reporting Programs

Wed, 17 May 2023 14:33:34 -0400

If you see something concerning, saying something can help prevent a disaster. A new toolkit from U.S. officials is designed to help schools improve their safety reporting programs to help mitigate targeted school violence.

Dark Web Research Illuminates Threats to Energy Companies

Tue, 16 May 2023 12:35:34 -0400

Threat actors are using the Dark Web to auction off initial access to energy companies, according to a report from Dark Web intelligence firm published Tuesday.

Not-So-Happy Meal Suit Finds McDonald's Liable For Burn Injuries

Mon, 15 May 2023 13:58:07 -0400

A Florida jury found fast food giant McDonald’s USA liable for a child's burns caused by a chicken nugget in a not-so-Happy Meal.

Report Shows Organized Retail Crime Is Increasing and Increasingly Violent

Fri, 12 May 2023 08:00:24 -0400

A new study from the National Retail Federation found that organized retail crime is underreported but still increasing. In addition, while most incidents are nonviolent, the number that do involve violence also increased.

As Title 42 Ends, U.S. Border Control Tries to Prepare

Thu, 11 May 2023 12:41:22 -0400

Title 42 used emergency medical reasons to deport migrants to the United States quickly. The COVID-era rule ends 11 May, and hundreds of thousands of migrants are poised to try to enter the country in the next few weeks and months.

Perseus vs. the Malware: FBI Disrupts Cyberespionage Tool

Wed, 10 May 2023 10:07:51 -0400

The FBI announced it hacked and disrupted one of the Russian government’s sophisticated, long-running cyberespionage efforts, targeting a nearly 20-year-old malware known as “Snake.”

Tens of Thousands Return Home in Northern India After Violent Ethnic Clashes

Tue, 09 May 2023 12:03:11 -0400

Authorities have restored a level of calm this week after the Naga and Kuki tribes clashed with the ethnic majority Meitei over access to privileged status in the Indian state of Manipur. More than 60 were killed in the violence and 35,000 people were displaced.

WHO Lifts Global Emergency Status for COVID-19

Mon, 08 May 2023 11:32:20 -0400

World Health Organization officials cautioned countries not to take the end of the emergency designation as a sign to dismantle COVID-19 response systems—the threat from the disease still stands.

Europe's Annual Pandora Operation Results in Recovery of More Than 11,000 Artifacts

Fri, 05 May 2023 10:07:24 -0400

In a joint effort across 14 European nations, Europol, and INTERPOL, law enforcement agencies announced the results of an art trafficking sting, touting the recovery of more than 11,000 stolen objects and the arrest of 60 people.

Suspect in Atlanta Medical Facility Shooting in Custody

Thu, 04 May 2023 12:35:34 -0400

Atlanta police have arrested and charged a man for opening fire on people in the waiting area of a medical facility on 3 May.

School Shooter in Serbia Planned Attack for a Month, Officials Say

Wed, 03 May 2023 10:41:29 -0400

The teenage shooter had allegedly drawn sketches of classrooms and wrote a list of people he intended to target, police said. He had been planning the attack for a month, they alleged.

Search for Fugitive Wanted in Connection with Texas Mass Shooting Continues

Tue, 02 May 2023 10:42:33 -0400

The search for Francisco Oropesa, alleged to be the gunman who killed five people in a house in Cleveland, Texas, on Friday evening, continues for a fourth day on Tuesday. Authorities consider Oropesa armed and dangerous, and local, state, and federal agencies are offering an $80,000 award for information that will lead to his capture.

By Land, Sea, and Air, Private Citizens Seek Evacuation from Sudan

Mon, 01 May 2023 11:32:11 -0400

Foreign governments are rushing to get diplomats and other citizens out of Sudan amid fears that the civil conflict in the northeastern African nation could escalate even further.

Creative Smuggling Techniques and Training Exercises Gone Bad Highlight a Strange Month

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 11:21:06 -0400

Gold bars—lots of them—hidden in a cast, liquid meth masquerading as tequila, and getting lost—literally—in a public art display are some of the stories that caught editors’ eyes and make this month’s Strange Security roundup.

FBI Finds Active Shooter Casualties Increased in 2022

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 13:25:51 -0400

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) released its latest report on active shooter incidents, finding that while the overall number of incidents decreased from 2021, there were more casualties from such events in 2022 than in any of the last four years.

Ukraine Launches Tech Cluster to Boost Drone Innovation on Front Lines

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 12:16:28 -0400

Ukraine launched a new initiative today to streamline and promote drone and technology innovation, especially related to the war with Russia.

When It Comes to Cyber Protection, Cooperation May Be the Best Defense

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 11:22:13 -0400

U.S. Cyber Command and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency shared a stage at the RSA conference in San Francisco and discussed their successful partnerships, one of several recent news articles on the need for cooperation to combat cyber threats.

German Airports Face More Strikes Over Cost of Living Increases

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 10:31:45 -0400

Germany faces another major travel disruption today—security and ground services employees in Berlin and Hamburg are holding a one-day strike over pay.

How Partnerships, People, and Technology are Working Together to Secure Ukraine’s Digital Assets

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 12:36:27 -0400

Illia Vitiuk, head of the department of cyber and information security of the security service of Ukraine (SSU), gave an update on the types of attacks he and his team have been addressing since 2015 and how that experience has made Ukraine more resilient to cyber incidents.

Attempted Ceasefire in Sudan Fails, Raising Humanitarian and Security Concerns

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 13:47:24 -0400

Clashes between Sudan’s military and a paramilitary force have resulted in more than 270 deaths, and the World Health Organization estimates that at least 2,600 others have been injured.

After Leaks, U.S. Defense Department Orders Review of Classified Material Handling Procedures

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 09:05:07 -0400

The fallout continues from a series of leaks of U.S. classified documents. Now, the Pentagon is revisiting its rules for who can handle top secret materials and how.

U.S. DOJ Takes Action Against Secret Chinese Police Station Operating in Manhattan

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 11:09:40 -0400

In three separate actions announced yesterday, the U.S. Department of Justice accused China of exporting its authoritarian tactics to harass, misinform, and intimidate Chinese dissidents living abroad.

U.S. DOJ Charges Sinaloa Cartel Leaders, Others for Fentanyl Trafficking

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 11:14:20 -0400

Significant amounts of fentanyl and fentanyl-tainted drugs are trafficked north across the Mexico-U.S. border, driven by cartels and fueled by precursor chemicals exported by Chinese companies, according to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland.

Despite Major Protests, French Constitutional Council Clears Plan to Raise Retirement Age

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 12:38:33 -0400

Security teams restricted access to city centers and riot police were on stand-by in Paris as the French Constitutional Council decided on a controversial retirement plan can go into effect.

Classified Leak Is Result of Man Trying to Impress Online Group of Friends

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 12:26:41 -0400

Today in security, we offer up a roundup of security-related news, beginning with an update on the leak of classified U.S. military and intelligence information. Also learn more about the Louisville, Kentucky bank shooting and the lack of China’s safeguards to protect against the next pandemic.

Animal Sedative is ‘Emerging Drug Threat,’ White House Declares

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 10:27:00 -0400

Xylazine--an animal tranquilizer used in veterinary medicine--is increasingly being mixed into street fentanyl or amphetamines primarily because it is cheap and brings its own addictive properties.

Bank Employee Attacks Workplace in Kentucky

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 12:16:32 -0400

The latest U.S. mass killing occurred in downtown Louisville, Kentucky, on the morning of 10 April. An employee of a bank entered his workplace and killed five coworkers before he was shot and killed at the scene by police.

U.S. Justice Department Launches Investigation into Leaked Defense Documents

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 11:43:23 -0400

Dozens of classified U.S. Department of Defense documents—including maps, charts, and photographs—were released on social media sites late last week, and they appear to detail U.S. and NATO aid to Ukraine.

U.S. Administration Admits Faults, Lessons Learned in 2021 Afghanistan Evacuation

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 13:15:01 -0400

In the run-up to the evacuation, the U.S. government extensively targeted its outreach to Americans and Afghan partners about the risk of national collapse, calling for U.S. citizens in particular to leave. However, the administration decided to avoid broadcasting potential worst-case scenarios too loudly.

DOJ Reaches Tentative $144M Settlement With Texas Church Shooting Victims

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 12:11:38 -0400

The U.S. Department of Justice announced a tentative settlement agreement with the families and victims of the 5 November 2017 mass shooting at a church in Sutherland Springs, Texas.

UK Privacy Watchdog Fines TikTok £12.7 Million for Misusing Childrens’ Data

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 11:30:03 -0400

TikTok allowed as many as 1.4 million children under the age of 13 in the United Kingdom to use the app in 2020, despite the platform’s rules prohibiting children that young from setting up accounts, the UK Information Commissioner's Office found.

Crowds Gather in New York as Trump Faces Charges

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 13:08:57 -0400

Tensions are high as hundreds of people, both supporting and denouncing former U.S. President Donald Trump, began arriving this morning outside of the New York City courthouse where Trump is scheduled to be arraigned this afternoon.

Teacher Shot by Student Files Negligence Lawsuit Against Newport News School Board, Officials

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 12:15:53 -0400

A first-grade teacher who was shot and injured by one of her students at Richneck Elementary School in Newport News, Virginia, filed a gross negligence lawsuit against the school district and officials Monday morning seeking $40 million in damages.

Animal Security Issues and Unusual Thefts Highlight a Month of Strange Security News

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 13:02:25 -0400

Stolen books, spoons, and monkeys are just some of the strange security-related news we read about last month. There's also the Pope in a puffer coat and middle finger extensions.

Mexican Authorities Investigate Private Security and Law Enforcement Role in Deadly Fire at Migrant Facility

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 13:17:31 -0400

A fire at a migrant detention center in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, on the evening of 27 March resulted in more than 30 deaths and several injuries. Authorities are looking at the allegedly negligent and passive reactions of security guards and law enforcement in response to the deadly blaze.

Europol Research Shares How ChatGPT Might Be Used to Facilitate, Fight Crime

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 11:52:30 -0400

New research from Europol's Innovation Lab takes a look at how learning language model ChatGPT could be used to facilitate crime and steps law enforcement should take to mitigate these abilities.

U.S. Executive Order Bans Government Use of Commercial Spyware

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 14:05:45 -0400

U.S. President Joe Biden signed an executive order Monday that bans U.S. government agencies from “operational use of commercial spyware that poses significant counterintelligence or security risks to the United States Government or significant risks of improper use by a foreign government or foreign person.”

Shooter Kills Six at Nashville Private Elementary School

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 11:22:43 -0400

An assailant shot and killed six people at the Covenant School, a small private school attached to and affiliated with the Covenant Presbyterian Church in an affluent neighborhood in Nashville, Tennessee. The assailant was shot and killed by police approximately 14 minutes after the incident was first reported.

Report Finds Inconsistencies, Racial Disparity in Strip Searches of UK Children

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 11:01:05 -0400

Black children in England and Wales are six times more likely to be strip searched by police, a new report from the Children’s Commissioner found. And the racial disparity was not the only concerning finding.

U.S. Anti-Semitic Incidents Hit Record High in 2022

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 09:46:40 -0400

Jewish institutions logged their highest number of bomb threats since 2017. The threats often included hateful, anti-Semitic language, and they were called into or emailed to Jewish institutions or schools.

Late-Season Storm Hits California With Tornado, Leaves Five Dead

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 09:48:13 -0400

A tornado struck close to Los Angeles, California, as part of a greater Pacific storm that left five people dead on Wednesday.

Metropolitan Police Plagued by Racism, Misogyny, and Bullying, Report Finds

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 12:04:19 -0400

The “rigorous, stark, and unsparing” report recommended that the force undergo a dramatic overhaul to address its deep-seated issues—especially rooting predators and bullies out of its ranks.

Authorities Prepare for Unrest in Case Manhattan DA Charges Trump

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 11:31:53 -0400

Over the weekend, former U.S. President Donald Trump said he would be arrested Tuesday and called for his followers to stage protests and “take our nation back." Police departments in several jurisdictions have put protective measures in place.

Scientists Deliver Dire ‘Final Warning’ on Impending Climate Crisis

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 12:16:02 -0400

The IPCC reported that the world is likely to miss its most ambitious climate target—limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) within a decade—putting millions of lives and livelihoods at risk.

French Citizens Organize Mass Protests Over Macron's Pension Changes

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 13:45:53 -0400

Massive protests were re-ignited in response to French President Emmanuel Macron’s decision to forcibly raise the nation’s retirement age from 62 to 64. With the use of his executive powers, Macron avoided a vote in a parliament where his party would be in the minority on a widely unpopular proposal.

UN Watchdog: More than 2 Tons of Natural Uranium is Missing from Libya Storage Site

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 11:13:57 -0400

Two-and-a-half tons of natural uranium is missing from a storage site in Libya, a United Nations watchdog said early Thursday.

U.S. Internet Crime Complaint Losses Reach Highest Point in Five Years

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 12:06:29 -0400

While the overall losses increased from $6.9 billion in 2021, the number of reports filed with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) decreased 5 percent in 2022, signaling that the cost of individual incidents is on the rise.

New FBI Data Shows Large Increase in Hate Crimes

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 13:27:30 -0400

The FBI released an updated 2021 Hate Crimes Report with more complete data, and it showed the number of hate crime incidents increased by 11.6 percent from 2020 to 2021.

Frustrated Asylum-Seekers Attempt to Surge Over U.S.-Mexico Border

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 11:32:17 -0400

Hundreds of migrants—primarily from Venezuela—tried to enter the United States on 12 March, pushing their way over a bridge connecting the country with Mexico.

Turkey: Election Moved Up as Earthquake Recovery, Response Efforts Continue

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 13:33:06 -0500

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced he is moving the country’s national elections up one month to 14 May, despite ongoing recovery efforts following February’s devastating earthquake that killed tens of thousands of people.

U.S. Intelligence Leaders Warn of Geopolitical, Cross-Border Threats

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 13:57:16 -0500

The United States and its allies can expect 2023 to feature significant strategic challenges to national security, intelligence officials said during a U.S. Senate Select Committee on Intelligence hearing. The hearing also provided intelligence officials the opportunity to highlight findings from the 2023 Annual Threat Assessment.

Medical Tourism Trip Turned into Cartel Abduction for Four Americans

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 11:47:53 -0500

The U.S. State Department issued a rare “Do Not Travel” warning for the Mexican state of Tamaulipas in 2022, citing organized crime activity, gun battles, armed robbery, and kidnappings.

23 ‘Cop City’ Protestors Arrested, Charged with Domestic Terrorism

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 10:46:56 -0500

A proposed police training compound in Atlanta, Georgia, has been the site of ongoing protests since it was approved in 2021. A group of protestors began destroying property and clashing with police over the weekend.

Gang Violence in Haiti Fueled by Widespread Firearms Trafficking, Report Says

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 12:12:48 -0500

Haiti's porous borders, understaffed law enforcement, and heavily armed criminal gangs are leading to an increasingly unstable environment, exacerbated by the flow of sophisticated, high-caliber firearms and ammunition, a UN report found.

New National Cybersecurity Strategy Shifts America’s Cyber Social, Business Contract

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 12:27:49 -0500

After months of anticipation, the White House released its long-awaited National Cybersecurity Strategy on Thursday to improve the security and resilience of U.S. critical infrastructure.

Manchester Inquiry: British Intelligence Failed in Preventing the Bombing

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 14:46:44 -0500

The independent public inquiry into the Manchester Arena bombing released its third volume on the findings, determining that the United Kingdom’s intelligence agency MI5 failed to “act swiftly enough” in preventing the attack.

U.S. Government Sets Deadline to Delete TikTok from Agency Devices

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 11:39:26 -0500

The United States is far from the only country taking action against TikTok. Canada, Denmark, and the executive branch of the European Union have announced efforts to ban TikTok on government-issued phones.

ATMs Are Dumped in a City Creek and a Woman Fakes Own Death by Murdering a Lookalike in Another Strange Month

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 08:16:27 -0500

In this month’s Strange Security roundup, we learned that 11,000 cases of chicken wings are worth a lot more than 200,000 chocolate eggs.

International Financial Crime Watchdog Updates List of Countries Under Scrutiny

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 12:34:49 -0500

Cambodia and Morocco received some particularly good news last week: the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) removed them from its gray list of countries under increased monitoring for financial crimes, including money laundering and terrorism financing.

One Year Later: Ukrainian Security Practitioners Reflect on Invasion Anniversary

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 13:35:03 -0500

Ahead of the one-year anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022, Security Management spoke with two Ukrainians who have remained in the country and continued in their security careers about how the war has impacted their lives and changed the work that they do.

Winter Storm Threatens Power and Travel for Much of the United States

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 13:29:27 -0500

Winter storm Olive barreled down on large parts of the United States this week, threatening access to power and ability to travel for millions of residents.

Mexican Ex-Security Leader Convicted of Taking Bribes from Drug Cartel

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 11:57:15 -0500

Genaro García Luna, 54, was convicted of taking millions of dollars from the Sinaloa drug cartel in Mexico in exchange for protection from arrest and safe passage for cocaine shipments.

Train Derailment Has Far-Reaching Implications

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 14:29:54 -0500

Earlier this month in Ohio, a train carrying dangerous chemicals derailed, resulting in a protracted fallout on many fronts, including health and environmental concerns, political and reputational repercussions, and even national security implications.

U.S. Department of Justice Forms Disruptive Technology Strike Force

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 12:44:58 -0500

U.S. Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco announced yesterday the creation of the Disruptive Technologies Task Force, which is charged with keeping advanced technology developed by U.S. companies out of the hands of foreign governments.

In the Wake of More Mass Shootings, Americans' Dissatisfaction with Gun Laws Reaches New High

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 14:17:57 -0500

On the heels of a significant report regarding gun violence from the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the United States further cemented its record high on the number of mass shootings.

Private Security Company Principals Arrested in 2021 Plot to Kill Haitian President

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 12:20:17 -0500

U.S. federal prosecutors allege that the plot to overthrow and ultimately kill Haitian President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021 was hatched by businessmen who hoped to win lucrative security contracts in the nation under a new administration.

ICS 2022 in Review: The Rise of PIPEDREAM and Ransomware Attacks

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 12:00:46 -0500

Threat actors targeting industrial control systems (ICS) broke new ground in 2022, escalating their capabilities to create the seventh ICS-impacting malware and increasing attacks against manufacturing, utilities, and the energy sector, according to an annual report by industrial cybersecurity firm Dragos.

Canadian, U.S. Militaries Shoot Down Four High-Altitude Objects in February

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 11:51:22 -0500

The three most recent objects—which have not been categorized by the U.S. military so far, either in terms of type of object or origin—posed no kinetic military threat.

Earthquake Response: Search and Rescue Continues, But New Focus on Humanitarian Aid Emerges

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 13:28:53 -0500

The emergency response has turned into a race against the clock as search and rescue teams continue to comb through the rubble to locate and free people trapped underneath.

Europol Sets New Record in Human Trafficking Crackdown

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 12:44:50 -0500

Europol announced it recently helped in dismantling an international sex trafficking ring, identifying hundreds of Chinese women trapped in debt bondage across Europe and arresting more than two dozen traffickers.

Millions of People at Risk of Glacial Lake Floods, Study Finds

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 11:39:27 -0500

As glaciers melt, they pour massive amounts of water into nearby lakes, which can trigger landslides and deadly flooding.

FBI Arrests Pair Charged with Plotting to Attack Baltimore’s Electrical Grid

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 11:17:19 -0500

The FBI stopped a pair of right-wing radicals from attacking electric grid substations serving Baltimore in an attempt to cut power and foment dissent in a predominantly Black city.

Search and Rescue Underway in Turkey and Syria After Massive Earthquake

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 11:41:55 -0500

Thousands of people are dead or injured after a 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck southern Turkey and neighboring Syria in the early hours of 6 February.

Peshawar Mosque Bomber Gained Access with Police Officer Disguise

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 11:13:11 -0500

A suicide bomber who killed more than 100 people gained access to a high security area in Peshawar, Pakistan, by donning a police uniform and riding in on a motorbike, authorities announced Thursday.

Four Charged in Assassination of Haitian President

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 12:26:53 -0500

As gang violence, riots, cholera and a dictatorship (in all but name) continue ravaging Haiti, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) filed charges against four men for their alleged involvement in the 2021 assassination of former Haitian President Jovenel Moïse.

COVID-19 Effects Drove Counterfeit or Pirated Goods Markets Online

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 12:45:59 -0500

While many of the physical markets for counterfeit or pirated goods remain closed after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, sellers shifted to e-commerce platforms, using physical storefronts just to fulfill online sales.

Statue Stealing, Zoo Capers, and a Wheel of Fugitives Headline One Strange Month

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 12:42:33 -0500

When it came to finding strange, security-related news for this month’s roundup, January 2023 yielded an embarrassment of riches.

U.S. Government Watchdog Reiterates Need for Stronger Department of Labor Antifraud Strategy

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 12:31:57 -0500

As investigations into COVID-19 relief fraud continue, the dollar figure keeps climbing. Fraud in unemployment insurance programs alone is estimated to reach at least $4.3 billion, based on forensic determinations by state workforce agencies.

Memphis: Five Cops Charged in Death of Tyre Nichols as Authorities Prepare to Release Video Footage

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 12:16:46 -0500

Authorities charged five fired Memphis police officers with murder and plan to release video footage this evening of the incident that led to a 29-year-old Black man’s death.

Spanish Authorities Arrest Suspect in Letter Bombs

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 11:24:26 -0500

Spanish authorities have had a busy week with recent arrests, notably that of a suspect linked to six letter bombs that were sent to Spain’s prime minister, the United States embassy, and the Ukrainian embassy.

New Study Identifies Common Behaviors of Concern Among Mass Attackers

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 13:13:13 -0500

In the wake of a wave of mass shootings, the U.S. Secret Service released an in-depth report on five years’ worth of mass attackers—including stressors, histories of concerning or criminal behavior, warning signs, and bystander intervention rates.

Former ‘Top Spy Catcher’ Indicted on Multiple Counts of Wrongdoing

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 11:15:53 -0500

Former FBI Special Agent Charles McGonigal faced charges from two different incidents: He is accused of aiding a sanctioned Russian oligarch and of taking payment in exchange for using his influence to aid a foreign national’s business and political interests.

Investigators Search for Motive After Mass Shooting in California

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 12:50:51 -0500

While many people were celebrating Lunar New Year’s Eve on 21 January, people in the largely Asian American community of Monterey Park, California, were in shock after a mass shooting left 10 people dead and 10 injured.

Despite Increased Awareness, Cyber and Business Leaders Struggle to Communicate

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 13:15:14 -0500

Business leaders are increasingly more aware of the cyber risks their organizations face, but cyber leaders continue to struggle to communicate how those risks in terms their business counterparts can fully act upon.

Helicopter Crash in Ukraine Kills 14

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 12:51:28 -0500

Denys Monastyrsky, Ukraine’s interior minister, and 13 other people were killed in a helicopter crash on 18 January in Brovary, Ukraine.

Italy Celebrates Arrest of Fugitive Mafia Boss

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 11:03:54 -0500

Matteo Messina Denaro used to boast of committing enough murders to fill a cemetery, Mafia informants and turncoats told police. But after 30 years on the run, Messina Denaro, 60, was arrested 16 January 2023 as he left a private health clinic in Palermo, Italy.

2023 Technology Trends and What They Mean for Security

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 11:16:43 -0500

Harvard Business Review recently asked a group of experts to identify the leading technology trends in their areas. Security Management asked Quang Trinh, PSP, vice chair of the ASIS Security Applied Sciences Community Steering Committee, to discuss each of the trends from a security perspective.

Broken Trust: Unpatchable Siemens PLC Vulnerability Disclosed

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 12:43:12 -0500

Researchers discovered that defects in more than 100 products in the Siemens S7-1500 series allow its protected boot features to be bypassed.

Gang Steals $4.4 Million Worth of Copper from Chilean Port

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 11:11:49 -0500

Chilean authorities reported Wednesday a copper heist at the country’s San Antonio port that resulted in the theft of approximately $4.4 million dollars worth of copper.

Storms Continue to Pummel California, Any Drought Relief May Be Short-Lived

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 14:09:10 -0500

For two weeks, California has endured one so-called “atmospheric river” after another. There is no end in sight to these deluges, which are fast approaching the $1 billion mark in damage. The storms are also deadly; so far, 17 deaths have been attributed to them.

German Authorities Detain Suspects After Tip on Plot to Deploy Poisonous Chemicals

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 12:07:30 -0500

German authorities acted quickly on a tip they received and detained two Iranian brothers suspected of planning a terrorist attack involving ricin and cyanide.

Authorities Arrest Hundreds, Launch Investigation After Mob Storms Government Buildings in Brasília

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 12:30:41 -0500

Authorities arrested hundreds of rioters and vowed to hold them accountable after a mob stormed Brazil’s Congress, Supreme Court, and presidential palace in Brasília on Sunday, inflicting major damage to all the facilities before being removed.

Lawmakers Mark Second U.S. Capitol Attack Anniversary as Investigations, Security Improvements Continue

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 12:30:03 -0500

Lawmakers gathered on the steps of the U.S. Capitol Friday morning to mark a moment of silence on the second anniversary of the 6 January 2021 attack when a mob stormed the U.S. Capitol to delay the certification of the 2020 presidential election and the peaceful transition of power.

New Year's Eve Riots in Germany Prompt Calls for Fireworks Bans

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 12:49:45 -0500

New Year’s Eve in major German cities saw several attacks against the police and emergency responders. The attackers fired rockets and fireworks at emergency vehicles, prompting officials to consider reinstituting a ban on the private sale of fireworks.

Substation Attacks Heighten Scrutiny for U.S. Electric Grid Risks

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 13:03:44 -0500

Attacks, vandalism, and suspicious activity around power stations are on the rise. In the first eight months of 2022, there were at least 108 human-related incidents affecting the U.S. electric grid, compared with 99 in all of 2021.

A Strange End to 2022: Impersonating a Soccer Star, Stealing from De Niro, and Finding Criminal Inspiration from the Movie Office Space

Tue, 03 Jan 2023 12:29:38 -0500

December capped 2022 as a month filled with bizarre news from the security sector, so here's our picks as the month's strangest stories.

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy Thanks Congress for Continued Support Against Russian Invasion

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 12:10:28 -0500

As part of his first known trip outside his country since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the United States. U.S. President Joe Biden promised Zelenskyy additional support, including a Patriot air defense system.

China Hit Hard by Wave of COVID-19 Infections

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 12:37:16 -0500

More than 90 percent of the Chinese population has been fully vaccinated, the government said, but China developed and produced its own vaccines, which have been less effective against serious COVID-caused illness and death than the mRNA vaccines used in most other countries.

Rapid Growth of Sextortion Targeting Teenage Boys Alarms Authorities

Tue, 20 Dec 2022 10:59:48 -0500

The FBI issued a national public safety alert warning of the rapid growth of an online scheme targeting male teenagers. The perpetuators pose as young women and trick the boys into sending sexually explicit photos of themselves, and then they extort money by threatening to send the photos to friends and family and post online.

Opportunistic Terrorists Continue to Adapt, UN Security Council Warns

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 12:16:15 -0500

The threat of terrorism has increased, the United Nations Security Council warned earlier this month. In addition, new technologies have enabled terrorism to reach further into different corners of the globe.

Kyiv Initiates Emergency Blackout After Russian Missile Barrage Damages Critical Infrastructure

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 12:38:59 -0500

Russian forces fired a barrage of missiles at Ukrainian targets on Friday morning, including civilian infrastructure, in one of the largest assaults during the war so far. The strikes hit at least seven cities and caused major damage to the electric grid.

State of Emergency Declared in Peru Over Violent Protests

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 13:18:27 -0500

Peru is no stranger to hosting ousted presidents and incarcerated former presidents. However, events in December have been remarkable even by local standards.

French Court Convicts Eight Indirect Accomplices in 2016 Vehicle-Borne Terrorism Attack

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 12:06:42 -0500

The two main defendants were convicted of participating in a terrorist conspiracy, and they were sentenced to 18 years in prison.

FBI Hate Crimes Report Plagued by Lack of Data

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 14:18:55 -0500

Comparing FBI data about reported hate crimes in the United States in 2021 versus 2020 shows a major decline, but with a massive caveat: the FBI changed reporting systems, so far fewer jurisdictions shared data in 2021.

Mass Shooter Attacks Residents’ Committee Meeting in Rome

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 11:28:58 -0500

Three people were killed after a man opened fire at a café in Rome, Italy. Four others were injured, one critically. The people were meeting as part of a local block’s residents’ committee, and the 57-year-old suspect had a history of disputes with some of the committee’s board.

New Research Identifies Weaknesses in Policies, Procedures for U.S. Law Enforcement Use of Face Recognition

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 11:35:45 -0500

Face recognition technology and procedures for its use do not work well enough to reliably serve U.S. law enforcement agencies who implement it, according to new research published this week by Georgetown Law.

Prisoner Exchange Frees WNBA Star Brittney Griner

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 12:48:53 -0500

Brittney Griner was released after a nine-month stint in a Russian detention facility in exchange for Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout. The United States was unable to secure the freedom of former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan.

German Authorities Detain Alleged Far-Right Extremists Aiming to Topple Government

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 11:32:57 -0500

Prosecutors said that the suspects aimed to replace the government with “their own form of state, which was already in the course of being founded”—an aim that suspects allegedly knew could only be achieved with military means and force.

One in Five Workers Worldwide Has Experienced Workplace Violence or Harassment

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 12:49:26 -0500

Young workers, women, and those who have experienced discrimination are most likely to have experienced violence or harassment at work, according to a major new study on global trends in workplace violence and harassment.

Gunshots Damage Two North Carolina Substations, Disrupting Electric Service

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 12:24:19 -0500

Gunfire at two electrical substations in North Carolina disrupted service for thousands of people and launched an investigation to apprehend the culprits.

China to Ease Some COVID-19 Restrictions Following Protest Movement

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 10:48:06 -0500

After years of strict health and safety measures and a major protest movement, Chinese officials are expected to ease some COVID-19 restrictions in some cities.

Mass Shooting Liability: Uvalde, Chesapeake Survivors and Victims File Lawsuits

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 13:26:59 -0500

Following major instances of gun violence in the United States in 2022, survivors and families of victims have consistently filed lawsuits against alleged shooters' employers, gun manufacturers, and first responders.

Strange Security: Santa Is Stolen, a Taxidermied Human Foot (Almost), 10,000 Minks, and More

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 12:47:18 -0500

These are the strange security-related articles that caught our editors' attention in the last month, everything from poorly perceived animal rescue attempts to an ill-advised try to rescue an entire class of grade schoolers.

FCC Bans Some Chinese Telecommunications and Surveillance Equipment Sales

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 12:29:16 -0500

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced on 25 November that it adopted new rules banning U.S. sales and imports of new telecommunications and surveillance equipment from five Chinese manufacturers: Huawei Technologies, ZTE Corporation, Hytera Communications, Hangzhou Hikvision Digital technology, and Dahua Technology, as well as their subsidiaries and affiliates. The move represents a significant crackdown on Chinese technology giants over fears of spying and threats to U.S. national security.

Insurgency Threatens to Spill Across the Sahel, Ghanian President Warns

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 12:19:51 -0500

Terrorist attacks in the region have increased in the past decade, killing thousands of people and displacing more than 2.7 million across the Sahel, a vast belt of countries that stretches across Africa from Senegal to Chad.

Recent Shootings Call into Question Efficacy of Red Flag Laws

Tue, 22 Nov 2022 13:56:37 -0500

The effectiveness of red flag laws is being debated after two recent shootings allegedly involved suspects who were known to authorities for other incidents.

Investigators Assess Whether LGBTQ Nightclub Attack Was Hate Crime

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 12:08:52 -0500

A man with a rifle opened fire in an LGBTQ nightclub in Colorado Springs, Colorado, late on 19 November, killing five people and injuring 25.

World Cup Watch: Qatar Prepares for 2022 Tournament Opening

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 12:08:31 -0500

After a contentious FIFA decision and 12 years of planning, the 2022 FIFA World Cup will begin on Sunday in Qatar when the host country enters the pitch to take on Ecuador.

Congress Limits NDAs in Sexual Harassment Claims, Sending Bill to White House

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 13:55:55 -0500

More than five years after the peak of the MeToo movement in the United States, Congress passed a bill limiting the use of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) and nondisparagement clauses in workplace sexual harassment and sexual assault cases.

Twitter Verification Changes Unleash Deluge of Impersonations, Misinformation, and Reputation Risks

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 12:33:56 -0500

While mis- and disinformation are nothing new on Twitter and other social media platforms, Elon Musk has slashed staffing in departments that are usually in charge of content moderation.

Threat Management Team Was Investigating Alleged UVA Shooter

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 12:28:09 -0500

The suspect accused of murdering three University of Virginia student athletes and wounding two others in a shooting Sunday night was the subject of an active investigation from the university’s threat management team.

Turkish Authorities Search for Bombers After Explosion in Istanbul

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 12:29:01 -0500

Istiklal Avenue is a popular pedestrian thoroughfare, regularly attracting families, tourists, and shoppers. But a bomb blast on Sunday killed six people, wounded more than 80 others, and sent panicked people fleeing from the area.

Cyber Extortionists Release Sensitive Medical Records in Ransomware Attack

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 11:54:51 -0500

The self-named “Extortion Gang” dumped stolen insurance customer records on the Dark Web this week related to pregnancy terminations, HIV, and drug addiction treatments.

Polish Law Enforcement Arrests 44 Suspects of Child Sex Abuse

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 11:37:22 -0500

After a collaborative operation, Polish Central Cybercrime Bureau officers raided and seized more than 15,000 files that portrayed child sexual abuse, and they arrested 44 suspected perpetrators.

U.S. Election Day Commences with Plenty of Tumult

Tue, 08 Nov 2022 11:44:49 -0500

On U.S. Election Day eve, a Russian oligarch boasts of interference, courts address a slew of early lawsuits, and even Canada adds to the mix with claims of Chinese interference in its 2019 election.

CDC Finds Alcohol-Related Deaths Spiked After Start of COVID-19 Pandemic

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 12:33:23 -0500

Researchers found one in eight deaths among U.S. adults between 20 and 64 years of age was attributed to excessive alcohol consumption.

Manchester Inquiry: Emergency Response to Arena Bombing Went ‘Badly Wrong’

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 12:26:55 -0400

The emergency response to a bombing at Manchester Arena on 22 May 2017 as an Ariana Grande concert was ending went “badly wrong,” according to a new UK government inquiry analysis.

Legal Roundup: Parkland School Shooter Sentenced to Multiple Consecutive Life Sentences

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 13:42:59 -0400

Various legal decisions recently reached the news, including sentencing of the Parkland shooter, a nation-wide takedown of a catalytic converter theft ring, CVS and Walgreens agreeing to settle opioid cases for roughly $10 billion with state, local, and tribal governments, and more.

U.S. Cities Hit by Nine Mass Shootings Over Holiday Weekend

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 12:12:04 -0400

Halloween became particularly frightening for many people at festivities across the United States during the past weekend. There were nine mass shootings over the holiday weekend, including several in crowded places.

Man Who Broke into Pelosi House Faces Federal Charges

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 13:28:10 -0400

An assailant entered U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s San Francisco-area home hoping to kidnap and torture her. He instead assaulted her husband Paul Pelosi before being arrested.

Man Bites Dog, Woman Unleashes Bee Attack, and, Oh Yes, Power Rangers Highlight the October Strange Story Roundup

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 13:52:19 -0400

The month of October had no shortage of strange security news: this month's roundup features a man trying to turn the tables on a security canine, green leotard-wearing assailants, and, just in time for Halloween, ghost cattle, among other security news of the bizarre.

Election Workers Face Wave of Violent Threats, Lack of Security Investment

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 12:18:02 -0400

The U.S. Department of Justice found that election workers are facing heightened threats, and some polling places are scrambling to boost security to protect workers and election infrastructure before Election Day in November.

Legal Update: Mass Attackers, School Shootings, and Gun Sales

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 11:55:30 -0400

It has been a busy week in the courts when it comes to high-profile cases of mass attacks and attempted kidnappings. As such, Security Management is here to catch you up with a quick roundup of the news.

Sweet Little Lies: Researchers Explore How to Detect Deception

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 12:27:17 -0400

If your coworker lied to you, how would you know? New research using machine learning attempts to find language cues that detect deception.

FTC Proposes Holding Drizly CEO Personally Responsible for Security Failures that Led to Data Breach

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 10:17:24 -0400

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced a proposed consent agreement designed to hold the alcohol marketplace Drizly and its CEO accountable for alleged security failures that led to a data breach exposing personal information of 2.5 million customers.

37 Percent of U.S. Adults Are Too Stressed to Function, Report Finds

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 09:59:00 -0400

More than a quarter of U.S. adults say they are so stressed most days that they can’t function, according to a survey from the American Psychological Association. So, what’s the source of this stress? Everything.

Ukraine Update: Zelensky Says Russia Plans to Destroy Dam

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 13:28:24 -0400

In his nightly radio address on 20 October, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russia planned to destroy the bridge and blame Ukraine. In other Ukraine news, Russia declares martial law and uses drones from Iran.

TSA Issues New Cybersecurity Regulations for Rail Owners and Operators

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 12:38:20 -0400

The U.S. Transportation Security Administration issued new rules on cybersecurity practices for rail owners and operators, furthering the Biden administration's attempts to harden essential infrastructure against hackers.

New York Mass Shooter Followed Footsteps of Previous Attackers Online, Investigation Finds

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 12:10:10 -0400

An investigation into the 2022 mass shooting at a Buffalo, New York, supermarket found that fringe online platforms and livestreaming websites “were weaponized to publicize and encourage copycat violent attacks; and a lack of oversight, transparency, and accountability of these platforms allowed hateful and extremist views to proliferate online, leading to radicalization and violence.”

Chinese President Xi Hails the Progress He Has Made; Western Nations Respond with Warnings

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 12:30:07 -0400

On 16 October, Chinese President Xi Jinping kicked off the week-long congress of the Chinese Communist Party with a wide-ranging speech that celebrated the country’s recent advancements and warned of the influences that threaten the country. Western democracies responded with warnings of their own.

Haitian Security, Health, and Safety Situation Grows Increasingly Dire

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 12:02:24 -0400

The safety and security situation in Haiti continues to deteriorate, and officials have resorted to asking outside countries for security assistance and equipment.

Privacy Progress: New Restrictions on U.S. Intelligence Agencies Reignite EU Data Sharing Effort

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 12:07:54 -0400

Two years after the EU Court of Justice struck down a data sharing agreement between the United States and the European Union and seven months after an “agreement in principle on a new framework,” the reforms to change U.S. intelligence agencies’ behavior and implement a new transatlantic data flow are finally beginning to take shape.

Sandy Hook Families Win Defamation Suit, Alex Jones Ordered to Pay $965 Million

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 12:41:48 -0400

A Connecticut jury ordered radio personality Alex Jones to pay nearly $1 billion in damages to the families of the Sandy Hook shooting victims. The families sued Jones for defamation because for years he insisted on his platforms that the deadliest elementary school shooting in the United States was a hoax.

Revenge Missile Strikes in Ukraine Send Citizens Back to Bomb Shelters

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 12:03:57 -0400

In response to ongoing missile strikes in Ukraine, Germany delivered the first of four ultramodern air defense systems to help protect population centers and large areas from aircraft, missile, rocket, and drone attacks.

Public and Private Sectors Look at Fertility Benefits in Talent War

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 12:56:05 -0400

To remain competitive, some employers are looking at expanding coverage and benefits for expecting, hopeful, and new parents.

Investigation into Organized Crime Network Uncovers Corrupt Port Workers

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 11:26:11 -0400

Investigators found that members of the ‘Ndrangheta would arrange for cocaine to be shipped from South America, and field coordinators would recruit and manage corrupt dock workers, paying them a commission between 7 and 20 percent of the value of the illegal cargo.

Former Uber CSO Joe Sullivan Convicted of Hiding Cyberattack

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 11:36:16 -0400

Former Uber Technologies Inc. Chief Security Officer Joseph Sullivan faces up to eight years in prison after he was convicted of obstructing a federal investigation and failing to disclose a felony related to a 2016 hack of Uber’s databases.

Security Provider Agrees to Pay $375,000 to Resolve Hiring Discrimination Allegations

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 11:40:11 -0400

A federal compliance evaluation alleged that Loomis Armored US LLC discriminated against 355 Black male and female job applicants and 181 other female applicants when hiring for cash management service teller positions.

Banks Face Pressure Over Zelle Payment System

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 13:25:50 -0400

After a Senate hearing last week, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren issued a report detailing consumer losses to fraud and theft through the bank-owned Zelle payment system.

Indonesian Security Officials Create Commission to Investigate Soccer Match Tragedy

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 11:46:38 -0400

Indonesia’s chief security officials will create a commission to investigate how 125 people were killed at a soccer stadium in one of the deadliest disasters during a sporting event in history, President Joko Widodo announced on Monday.

Hurricane Update: South Carolina Braces for Ian Landfall as Florida, Cuba, and Puerto Rico Recoveries Continue

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 12:38:54 -0400

South Carolina is preparing for Hurricane Ian to make landfall again on Friday after wreaking havoc and causing widespread flooding in Florida.

Danish, Swedish Officials Claim Sabotage After Detecting Fourth Nord Stream Pipeline Leak

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 11:55:48 -0400

Danish and Swedish government officials claim the Nord Stream pipelines were damaged in acts of deliberate sabotage after detecting a fourth leak in a week.

Florida Prepares for Severe Blow from Hurricane Ian

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 11:27:54 -0400

Hurricane Ian stretches nearly 500 miles from east to west—double the width of the Florida peninsula it now endangers.

New Documentary Revisits Deadliest Shooting in American History

Tue, 27 Sep 2022 12:02:35 -0400

Streaming service Paramount+ today released the documentary "11 Minutes," which covers the 2017 Route 91 Harvest Festival shooting in Las Vegas, Nevada, focusing on the perspectives of the survivors, victims, and first responders.

Russia Escalates War Effort, Initiating Sham Elections and Conscripting 300,000 Additional Troops

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 11:31:06 -0400

Russian proxy authorities opened staged referendums Friday morning to tally support for an annexation of portions of Ukraine to place them under official Kremlin control.

Protests in Iran Spread as the Internet Goes Down and Deaths Go Up

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 12:45:47 -0400

Six days of protests throughout Iran in response to the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini while in the country's morality police's custody have resulted in civilian deaths and Internet outages.

NYC Invests in Subway Car Surveillance to Soothe Rider Concerns

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 11:27:20 -0400

The MTA will install video surveillance cameras across the entire fleet of 2,700 New York City Transit subway cars, with two cameras per car. It will also expand surveillance in 130 subway stations, adding around 3,800 cameras to NYC Transit’s current security network of more than 10,000 cameras.

Grand Theft Auto Leak Likely Shows Perils of Social Engineering Hack

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 13:31:11 -0400

The release of hacked footage—likely the result of a socially engineered compromise—from a future version of one of the most successful video game franchises in history set the gamer world ablaze over the weekend.

Hurricane Fiona Knocks Out Power in Puerto Rico

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 10:53:53 -0400

More than 3 million people lost electricity after Hurricane Fiona hit Puerto Rico, and restoring power across the island could take several days, according to Luma Energy, the island’s private electric utility.

How Do Pandemics End? Plus Iranian Cyberattack Responses, Insurance Pressures, and Militarized Security in Mexico

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 11:39:03 -0400

It’s the most upbeat message from the World Health Organization (WHO) in years—the world has never been in a better position to end the COVID-19 pandemic, said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Security News Roundup: Former Twitter Security Official Testifies, Monarchy Protestors, Progress Fighting Violent Crime, and Other News

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 10:48:55 -0400

A roundup of security-related news headlines: GSX Daily; Whistleblower: China, India Had Agents Working for Twitter; Package Explodes at Boston’s Northeastern University, Injuring One; Police Arrest Anti-Monarchy Protesters at Royal Events in England, Scotland; FBI and Law Enforcement Partners Arrest Nearly 6,000 Violent Criminals This Summer; and GPS Jammers Are Being Used to Hijack Trucks and Down Drones: How to Stop Them.

Security Roundup: More People Fall Victim to Modern Slavery, New Phishing Schemes, and Other News

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 09:51:44 -0400

Today’s security news roundup: Modern Slavery Shoots Up by 10 Million in Five Years, Human Trafficking’s Newest Abuse: Forcing Victims Into Cyberscamming; Phishing Scheme Targeting Mideast Researchers Uses 'Herd Mentality' Approach to Dupe Victims; and Daughter Says QAnon Conspiracy Theory Fueled Father’s Deadly Rampage.

Visa to Categorize Gun Sales, Climate Change Tipping Points, and More Security-Related News

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 10:29:26 -0400

Security news today: Visa, Mastercard, AmEx to Start Categorizing Gun Shop Sales; Climate Change: Six Tipping Points ‘Likely’ to be Crossed; OSHA Unveils New Suicide Prevention Resources for Employers; Is COVID-19 Winding Down? Scientists Say No; and Australia Financial Crimes Regulator Opens Investigation into Britain's Entain

EU Poised to Introduce Cybersecurity Rules for IoT Devices

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 11:12:47 -0400

The European Union Commission is poised to introduce new rules that would require Internet of Things (IoT) devices to meet cybersecurity standards or potentially be banned from the market.

Both Suspects in Canadian Mass Stabbing Attack Dead

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 12:46:22 -0400

Brothers Myles and Damien Sanderson were suspected of committing several stabbings in 13 different locations throughout the indigenous community James Smith Cree Nation and Weldon, a rural village nearby.

Ransomware Poses Tough Lesson for School Districts

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 11:46:46 -0400

Ransomware groups are once again targeting educational institutions in hopes of disrupting classes enough to earn a quick payout.

Extreme Violence in Mexico Continues to Increase

Tue, 06 Sep 2022 11:57:17 -0400

A new study underscores the continued troubles Mexican authorities have in containing the violence of its drug cartels and associated gangs. The organization Causa en Comun said the country’s news outlets report an average of 17 atrocities each day.

UN Investigation Finds China Committed ‘Serious Human Rights Violations’ in Xinjiang

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 11:21:36 -0400

The People’s Republic of China may have committed “crimes against humanity” for its treatment of Uyghurs and other Muslim ethnic groups, the UN Human Rights Office of the High Commissioner (OHCHR) said in a long-delayed report published this week.

Unusual Weapons, Fake Socks, and Lemonade Stand Fraud: Security Stays Strange in August

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 10:28:11 -0400

Security Management editors present some of the most unusual security-related news items from the previous month.

Cyberattack Hits Montenegro’s Government and Critical Infrastructure

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 14:17:01 -0400

Montenegrin authorities reported a series of cyberattacks on its servers early last week and said they prevented any damage. But the attacks have continued.

How Not to Do an Active Shooter Training

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 12:04:55 -0400

Last week prosecutors arraigned John Channels on charges of making terroristic threats, a result of an ill-conceived active assailant training at a charity in Omaha, Nebraska.

U.S. Secret Service Seizes COVID-19 Relief Funds from Fraudsters

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 11:36:58 -0400

Fraudsters stole nearly $100 billion from COVID-19 relief programs in the United States, the U.S. Secret Service announced in late 2021. Last week, the agency got a bit of it back.

China Sets New Temperature Records as Two-Month Heatwave Continues

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 12:02:39 -0400

Rivers are drying up. Crops are dying. And humans are taking extreme measures to stay cool as heatwaves continue throughout the planet, this time in China where hundreds of locations have reported temperatures of more than 40 degrees Celsius.

Ongoing Crisis in Ethiopia Impacts 6 Million People

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 09:43:00 -0400

Ethiopia is facing a unique crisis, with a confluence of drought, flooding, and war across regions in the nation.

Watchdog Sting Operation Uncovers Vulnerabilities in Radioactive Materials Restrictions

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 12:00:27 -0400

Whether you call it research or a sting operation or both, the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) uncovered a dramatic vulnerability in the U.S. guardrails around radioactive material that could potentially be used to create a dirty bomb.

Former Twitter Head of Security Files Whistleblower Complaints, Alleging Violations of Previous Regulator Settlements

Tue, 23 Aug 2022 11:49:50 -0400

Peiter Zatko, a respected hacker known as Mudge, filed a whistleblower complaint last month with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, the U.S. Department of Justice, and the Federal Trade Commission.

Al-Shabab Extremists Attack Hotel in Somalia

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 11:59:25 -0400

Al-Shabab militants used car bombs and firearms to storm the Hayat Hotel in Mogadishu, Somalia, on 19 August. The attack led to a 30 hour-long siege and firefight with security forces.

As Tensions Rise Near Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, Families Flee and Officials Call for Ceasefire

Fri, 19 Aug 2022 12:40:48 -0400

Some families in southeastern Ukraine are leaving the area around Zaporizhzhia, where Europe’s largest nuclear power plant is based, while others remain despite Ukrainian authorities’ warnings of a likely Russian attack.

The Latest Opioid Legal Battle Hits Pharmacy Companies

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 13:11:02 -0400

A U.S. federal judge in Ohio ordered three major retailers to pay $650.6 million for their involvement in the nation’s opioid crisis.

American Companies Missing Half of All Threats, but Downplaying Risks

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 11:36:35 -0400

Threats to private sector organizations abound—exacerbated by persistent political, social, and economic issues—but U.S. companies aren’t keeping up. By the end of 2022, 26 percent of executives at American companies anticipate they will miss at least 51 percent of threats, a new report found.

160,000 Pounds of Dead Fish Create Tension Between Germany and Poland

Tue, 16 Aug 2022 12:50:11 -0400

An ecological disaster is unfolding in the Oder River on the border between Germany and Poland, showcasing the transnational tensions that can arise when environmental resources are threatened.

Extreme Rhetoric, Conspiracy Theories, and Attacks Raise Alarms After FBI Search for Confidential Documents

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 12:05:43 -0400

In the 24 hours following an FBI search of former U.S. President Donald Trump's resort, there was a tenfold increase in Twitter posts mentioning "civil war," and calls for violent retribution abounded on social media platforms and other online forums.

Lebanese Man Holds Up Beirut Bank, Garnering Public Support

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 12:13:43 -0400

A man identified as Bassam al-Sheikh Hussein went into the Federal Bank of Lebanon with a can of gasoline and threatened to light himself on fire if the bank didn’t provide access to the money in his account—worth roughly $210,000—so he could pay his father’s medical bills.

U.S. Justice Department Charges Iranian with Assassination Plot

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 11:53:44 -0400

The U.S. Department of Justice charged a member of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps for his alleged plan to assassinate former U.S. security adviser John Bolton for $300,000.

Do Device-Free Driving Laws Reduce Crashes?

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 11:21:38 -0400

After Oregon and Washington adopted laws against holding a phone while driving, their monthly rate of rear-end crashes with injuries per 100,000 people dropped significantly—11 percent in Washington and 9 percent in Oregon.

Murders, Gun Violence Down Slightly in 2022

Tue, 09 Aug 2022 12:00:26 -0400

The United States has experienced a small decrease in murder and gun violence so far in 2022, but understaffing of police departments is reaching critical levels.

Who’s in Charge of Water Utility Cybersecurity Checks?

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 12:15:47 -0400

There are currently no minimum cybersecurity mandates for the water sector in the United States, although the Biden Administration is working to develop and implement some that target the 1,600 water companies that serve large populations.

After Reopening, Sports Venues Attract Rowdy Crowds but not Security Staff

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 10:46:23 -0400

Why are venues short-staffed? Most security directors cited COVID-19, followed by staff simply not turning up for work. Seventy percent of survey participants said absenteeism among security staff has increased since the start of the pandemic.

China Practices Sea and Air Blockade Around Taiwan

Thu, 04 Aug 2022 11:53:05 -0400

In retaliation for Taipei hosting U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi earlier this week, China put on a show of force on Thursday, including firing multiple missiles into Taiwan’s surrounding sea.

Concentrated Rainfall Floods U.S. Midwest

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 12:10:35 -0400

Summer storms are nothing new for the U.S. Midwest. But this year, wave after wave of heavy rainstorms have swamped whole regions, causing widespread damage and triggering rescue operations.

Al Qaeda Leader Killed in Afghanistan by U.S. Drone Strike

Tue, 02 Aug 2022 11:56:38 -0400

The United States fired a hellfire missile from a drone over Kabul, Afghanistan, on Sunday, killing Ayman al-Zawahiri, who was a primary architect of 9/11 and other terrorist attacks and had been the leader of al Qaeda.

Poor Arson Planning, Emu Fighting, and Bigfoot: This Month's Strange Security News

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 14:25:17 -0400

Every month, Security Management editors collect the unusual security-related news they run across. Here are the top stories from July.

Soaring to New Heights: Global Average Cost of a Data Breach Reaches $4.35 Million

Fri, 29 Jul 2022 11:55:32 -0400

As the price of milk, gas, and rent went up in 2022, the cost of a data breach rose right alongside them to peak at the global average of $4.35 million, according to analysis out this week in an annual IBM report.

Repercussions from Shanghai National Police Data Breach

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 11:31:08 -0400

While availability on the Dark Web of hacked Chinese data has recently increased, so too have Chinese users' interest in Dark Web forums, thanks to one of the world's largest data breaches - 23 terabytes of information on roughly 1 billion Chinese citizens, which was collected by the Shanghai National Police.

Perceived vs. Experienced Risks: Measuring the World’s Worries and Woes

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 10:56:45 -0400

In 2021, 34 percent of people worldwide said they felt less safe than they did five years previously, compared with 30 percent in 2019, according to the World Risk Poll.

Tensions Rise on the Tiny Island with Outsized Strategic Importance

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 14:55:20 -0400

Taiwan’s capital city of Taipei conducted air raid drills yesterday in advance of planned military mobilization exercises. The drills come amid increased tension on the island as fears that China may try to assert control have grown, and U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi is considering the controversial move of visiting the island in a show of support.

WHO Declares Monkeypox Outbreak a ‘Public Health Emergency of International Concern’

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 11:01:38 -0400

After the World Health Organization (WHO) Emergency Committee failed to reach a consensus, the WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus declared the global monkeypox outbreak a public health emergency of international concern to spur the public health community to act to mitigate its spread.

New York Governor Candidate Wards Off Assault, the Latest Attack on a Political Figure

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 12:02:32 -0400

A man walked on to the stage, brandished a pointed metal object, and swung it towards U.S. Representative Lee Zeldin’s neck at a campaign rally in Perinton, New York, on Thursday evening.

A Cruel Summer in Europe and the United States

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 13:20:35 -0400

Both in North America and Europe, temperatures have climbed into the triple digits, triggering high heat and wildfire alerts. The expectation is that the heat will remain high throughout the weekend.

Intolerance-Fueled Terrorism Represents Growing National Security Threat, UN Report Finds

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 11:56:18 -0400

Xenophobia, racism, and other forms of intolerance are driving increased numbers of terrorist attacks across United Nations member states, according to a new report from the UN Office on Drugs and Crime.

U.S. Mass Shootings Continue to Take Center Stage

Tue, 19 Jul 2022 14:59:39 -0400

An Indiana gunman stopped by a bystander and scathing report from the state legislature on the handling of the Uvalde, Texas, mass shooting highlight only the latest in what has become a steady stream of mass shooting news.

How the Franco A. Case Changed the Way Germany Confronts Extremism

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 12:22:56 -0400

Before the arrest of Franco A., German authorities largely denied the presence of extremism—especially far-right extremism—in the country's military ranks.

The Long Tail of Log4j: CSRB Report Assesses Lessons Learned and Impact of Open-Source Software Vulnerability

Fri, 15 Jul 2022 12:20:47 -0400

A new report out this week from the U.S. Cyber Safety Review Board which analyzed the events surrounding the disclosure of the Log4j vulnerability in December 2021 and its known impact.

Jury Convicts Former CIA Engineer for 'Vault 7' Leak of Agency's Classified Information

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 13:09:15 -0400

A U.S. jury convicted a former Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) engineer for causing the largest leak of classified information in the history of the agency

Nearly Half of All U.S. Murders Went Unsolved in 2020

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 12:39:40 -0400

Only 54 percent of homicides were cleared in 2020 through the arrest of the offender, the FBI estimated. Meanwhile, homicides climbed nearly 30 percent that year.

A More Complete Picture of the Safety Issues at the Champions League Football Match Emerges

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 14:57:57 -0400

Authorities had trouble understanding why tens of thousands of fans had trouble entering the Stade de France for a football match in May, which caused dangerous conditions in which irate fans clashed with authorities.

Protesters Take Over Presidential Residence in Sri Lanka

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 11:00:54 -0400

Tens of thousands of protesters swarmed the presidential residence in Sri Lanka this weekend, demanding President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's resignation amid widespread economic turmoil in the nation.

Former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe Assassinated at Campaign Rally

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 11:19:30 -0400

A gunman assassinated former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe at a campaign event in Nara, Japan, on Friday morning in a shocking act of violence in the country with some of the most stringent firearm control laws in the world.

Nigerian Jihadist Prison Break Frees More Than 440

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 12:12:23 -0400

The latest prison raid in Nigeria resulted in the deaths of four prisoners, a security guard, and several attackers. More than 400 prisoners continue to evade recapture after the attack on 5 July, according to official reports.

Widespread Flooding Affects 50,000 People in Sydney

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 10:01:21 -0400

Widespread flooding drove thousands of people from their homes in Sydney after nearly 8 inches of rain fell in 24 hours, causing the fourth major flooding event in 16 months.

Police Detain Suspected Gunman of Highland Park Parade Shooting

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 14:02:26 -0400

A 21-year-old man was arrested after a manhunt for the gunman that killed six people and injured at least 30 in an attack on a Fourth of July parade in Highland Park, Illinois.

Dangerous Duck Sauce, Murderous Mayo, and Choking Chocolate: This Month’s Strange Security News Roundup

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 11:49:12 -0400

Every month, Security Management editors collect the unusual security-related news they run across. Here are the top stories from June.

Humans Remain the Biggest Risk to Cybersecurity

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 13:14:15 -0400

More than 82 percent of all data breaches are caused by human-based risks, including phishing, business email compromise (BEC), and ransomware, largely because of a lack of diversity in security awareness teams compounded by increasingly sophisticated attacks.

Despite G7 Investment, Global Hunger Response Requires More Resources

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 12:54:02 -0400

Is $4.5 billion enough to counter global food shortages? Not even close, activists say.

Survey Says: Work Stinks

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 15:26:54 -0400

Gallup’s global study of workplace well-being is in, and the news isn’t great.

The World in Protests: From Climate to Inflation to Abortion

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 13:01:04 -0400

Wherever you turn, tensions are high. The past week saw a wave of widespread protests and civil unrest in response to judicial decisions, alleged inaction on climate change, food insecurity, and economic turmoil.

Contract Security Provider to Pay $517 Million to Settle Charges from Miami Building Collapse

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 12:42:17 -0400

Ninety-eight people were killed and numerous others were thrust into homelessness one year ago when the Champlain Towers South building in Miami, Florida, partially collapsed.

Relief Mission Faces Obstacles After Massive Earthquake in Afghanistan

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 11:00:30 -0400

Issues with communications and road access are hindering relief efforts in Afghanistan after a 5.9 magnitude earthquake hit the nation on Wednesday, killing at least 1,000 people and injuring at least 1,500 more.

Texas Senate Hearing Clarifies Timeline of Uvalde Shooting

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 09:23:17 -0400

In a painful, minute-by-minute breakdown at a Texas Senate committee hearing, Texas Department of Public Safety Director Steven McCraw called the police response to the shooting as an “abject failure,” explaining how police officers entered the school within minutes of the shooting but waited more than an hour to enter the classroom where the gunman was located.

Air Travel Is Overwhelmed with Summer Deluge of Travelers

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 13:32:30 -0400

A day after meeting with airline executives about disruptions to air travel caused by staff shortages, U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg’s flight was cancelled.

Assange Faces Extradition to the United States

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 13:30:47 -0400

UK Home Secretary Priti Patel approved Julian Assange’s extradition to the United States over alleged crimes under the U.S. Espionage Act. Assange is expected to appeal the decision.

U.S. Launches Task Force to Address Online Harassment

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 13:20:41 -0400

“The tragic events in Buffalo and Uvalde have underscored a fact known all too well by many Americans: the internet can fuel hate, misogyny, and abuse with spillover effects that threaten our communities and safety online," a fact sheet on the new initiative said.

Low Battery: Ransomware Pressure Drives Cybersecurity Professionals to Quit

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 12:11:56 -0400

The persistent pace of attacks is driving “increasing and unsustainable stress levels” in the cybersecurity workforce, and it may be driving larger numbers of security leaders to quit the industry altogether, a new report found.

LGBTQ Events Targeted by Extremist Groups

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 12:29:41 -0400

This weekend, multiple incidents pointed to rising hostility from right-wing extremists toward the LGBTQ community. In Idaho, 31 people were arrested after allegedly conspiring to riot at an LGBTQ event.

News from Ukraine: The Fate of Eastern Cities, Cluster Munition Use, and More

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 11:37:41 -0400

Russian forces are battling block-by-block for control of cities and territory in Eastern Ukraine in a painstaking firefight with Ukrainians.

'Heat Dome' Threatens Millions with Extreme Temperatures This Weekend

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 13:03:26 -0400

Weather experts warn that the Southwest United States will be subject to dangerous, perhaps even deadly, temperatures this weekend, climbing well into triple digits. Other parts of North America, Europe, and India are experiencing extreme heat, too.

Driver in Custody after Vehicle Attack in Berlin

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 12:19:53 -0400

A car crashed into pedestrians and then drove into a store window in inner city Berlin, Germany on the morning of 8 June. Police have not yet said whether it was an accident or some sort of attack.

DHS Warns of Heightened Domestic Extremism Risk

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 13:20:26 -0400

“In the coming months, we expect the threat environment to become more dynamic as several high-profile events could be exploited to justify acts of violence against a range of possible targets," the U.S. Department of Homeland Security warned.

New York State Enacts New Gun Control Measures

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 13:06:08 -0400

With acts of mass violence continuing around the United States, New York becomes first state to enact tougher gun laws as a result of recent tragedies. Meanwhile, limited federal legislation is still being negotiated.

Gunmen with Explosives Attack Catholic Church in Nigeria

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 11:31:57 -0400

Gunmen armed with explosives stormed a Catholic church service in the southern Nigerian town of Owo, killing an estimated 50 people, including many women and children.

Cultural Property Crimes Roundup: From Vandalism to Theft to War

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 12:00:03 -0400

The butt of art vandals’ ire is often not the art itself, but the attention they get by striking cultural property is a means to an end. The end in question, of course, varies, from venting anger at a girlfriend to crushing a country's morale.

Active Assailant Attacks Tulsa Medical Facility

Thu, 02 Jun 2022 12:27:37 -0400

An active shooter event at a Tulsa, Oklahoma, healthcare building left five people dead and multiple others injured on Wednesday afternoon. The attack comes as the latest in a recent flurry of mass shootings across the United States.

Verizon 2022 DBIR Reveals Rise in Ransomware Attacks and Organized Crime Activity

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 12:04:37 -0400

While it’s no surprise that ransomware attacks increased between 2021 and the first quarter of 2022, the amount that it rose and the threat actors behind the trend disclosed in an annual report from Verizon were a bit startling.

Johnny Cash's Unfortunate Leak, The Case of the Mona Lisa Cake Attack, the Taste of Security, and Other Unusual Security News

Tue, 31 May 2022 12:20:53 -0400

From a sharpshooter's potentially costly joke to karmic retribution to various COVID-19 fraud stories, here is this month’s too strange to not be true security news.

International Attacks Stalled, But Online Terror Propaganda Continued to Spread in 2021

Fri, 27 May 2022 12:55:12 -0400

The Islamic State (IS) did not claim responsibility for any terror attacks on European Union soil in 2021, but its supporters did capitalize on violent incidents to promote the IS cause, according to a new Europol report.

U.S. National Weather Service Predicts Heavy Hurricane Season

Thu, 26 May 2022 11:51:30 -0400

The 2022 Atlantic hurricane season extends from 1 June through 30 November, and forecasters predict a 65 percent change of an above-average season with a likely range of 14 to 21 named storms.

What We Know: Children, Teachers Killed in Attack on Texas Elementary School

Wed, 25 May 2022 10:52:26 -0400

At least 19 students and two adults were killed in a mass shooting at a Texas elementary school this week. Details about the attack, the victims, and the shooter are still emerging, but here’s what we know so far.

Cause for Caution, But Not Alarm, as Monkeypox Spreads

Tue, 24 May 2022 12:16:12 -0400

Monkeypox would likely be a worldwide news obsession if the world was not two-plus years deep into a deadly worldwide pandemic. Should you be paying more attention to the emergence of this disease than you are? Here’s the latest information.

Chicago Public Schools’ Vendor Data Breach Compromises Data for 550,000 People

Mon, 23 May 2022 12:35:31 -0400

The school district said the breach was caused and exacerbated by a vendor's failure to follow the information security terms of its contract—specifically failing to encrypt data and purge old records.

Good Faith Required: U.S. Justice Department Changes Policy for Cybersecurity Researchers

Fri, 20 May 2022 11:03:38 -0400

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) changed its policy toward security researchers acting in good faith to test, investigate, or correct security vulnerabilities, revising its previously broad approach of prosecuting these actions as crimes under the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act.

How Security Culture Varies Worldwide

Thu, 19 May 2022 11:12:05 -0400

KnowBe4's 2022 Security Culture Report finds that while some sectors scaled back their security culture efforts, there was an overall improvement worldwide.

North Korea Announces Rapid COVID-19 Spread

Wed, 18 May 2022 10:54:55 -0400

Years after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, North Korea has announced its first acknowledged cases of the disease. So far, nearly 1.5 million people have presented with a fever, North Korean state media said, and 56 people have died.

Flood Risks and Heat Waves Rise, Placing Pressure on Resilience Response Measures

Tue, 17 May 2022 11:03:45 -0400

The 2021 rainy season in China resulted in floods that killed hundreds of people and displaced millions more. The 2022 rainy season might be even more catastrophic.

Shooting at New York Supermarket Was Likely a Hate Crime, Investigators Say

Mon, 16 May 2022 13:32:21 -0400

An 18-year-old man is in police custody for allegedly killing 10 people and wounding three in a mass shooting at a Buffalo, New York, grocery store on 14 May. Authorities called the shooting an act of “racially motivated violent extremism.”

Hong Kong Arrests 90-Year-Old Cardinal Under National Security Law

Fri, 13 May 2022 10:24:58 -0400

In another sign that China is cracking down on freedoms in Hong Kong, a cardinal and four other trustees of an organization that provided aid to protestors were arrested under the National Security Law.

‘Speed Is Your Security’—Changes and Lessons Learned from Ukraine

Thu, 12 May 2022 10:42:04 -0400

The picture of the war in Ukraine is significantly different today—78 days into the conflict—than it was at the onset. Security Management checked in with Global Guardian CEO Dale Buckner to determine where challenges have evolved and what lessons security leaders can learn moving forward.

Sri Lankan Protests Turn Violent with Deaths and Arson

Wed, 11 May 2022 11:19:29 -0400

After weeks of peaceful mass protests over Sri Lanka’s economic crisis, deadly clashes on 9 May with pro-government supporters have fueled greater violence, including widespread arson and looting. The government has issued a curfew and ordered the military to shoot any violent protesters.

Settlement Would Restrict Database Sales, But Not Impact Clearview AI’s Overall Business

Tue, 10 May 2022 12:50:48 -0400

A settlement filed in the U.S. state of Illinois on 9 May would place restrictions on Clearview AI’s ability to sell or provide free access to its facial vector database for use in the United States, but not limit its ability to do business with most government entities.

Monthlong New Mexico Wildfire Signals a Rough Fire Season Ahead

Mon, 09 May 2022 11:49:09 -0400

It’s a forecast for disaster—strong winds, high temperatures, and low humidity were on the horizon for New Mexico, threatening to stoke the largest fire burning in the United States.

Nearly 15 Million People Have Died Worldwide From COVID-19 and Related Causes

Fri, 06 May 2022 12:41:07 -0400

Nearly 15 million people have died worldwide from COVID-19 and other causes related to the pandemic crisis, according to new figures released Thursday from the World Health Organization (WHO) that far exceed reported death tolls.

Today in Security: U.S. Considers Extreme Sanctions Against Hikvision

Thu, 05 May 2022 12:14:48 -0400

The U.S. Treasury Department may place Chinese surveillance company Hikvision on its Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List, which is usually reserved for drug traffickers and terrorists.

Today in Security: Free Press Faces Threats as Risks of Jail, Abuse, Violence Rise

Wed, 04 May 2022 11:56:02 -0400

In 2021, 55 journalists and media professionals were killed. While this marks one of the lowest tallies in a decade, UNESCO noted that journalists are facing high rates of imprisonment, physical attack, intimidation, and harassment, including when reporting on protests.

Today in Security: Firearms-Related Deaths Spike Higher

Tue, 03 May 2022 10:57:07 -0400

A new report from Johns Hopkins University’s Bloomberg School of Public Health paints a bleak picture about gun violence trends. The 45,222 gun deaths in 2020 are the most ever recorded in the United States, and they represent a staggering 35 percent increase from 2019.

Today in Security: Wedding Buzz, 90 COVID Boosters, Accordion Wars, and Other Unusual News

Mon, 02 May 2022 11:29:16 -0400

From a bride who spiked her reception with marijuana to deadly gang violence related to accordion music, here are last month’s too strange to not be true security stories.

Today in Security: First Human in the United States Contracts Avian Flu

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 11:40:33 -0400

An individual in the United States has contracted an extremely contagious strain of avian flu for the first time, officials confirmed on Thursday.

Today in Security: Indiana Town Facing Lawsuit After Withdrawing Employment Offer to HIV-Positive Officer

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 12:05:38 -0400

The town’s police department is accused of illegally withdrawing a job offer to a man who was qualified to work for the department. The offer was rescinded when the department learned that the applicant had HIV, according to the complaint filed by the DOJ.

Today in Security: U.S. Law Enforcement Deaths Climbed Sharply in 2021

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 12:17:28 -0400

2021 was a rough year for law enforcement in the United States. There was a 59 percent increase in the number of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty last year, reaching a total of 73 officers killed.

Today in Security: UN Says Disaster Risks Are Increasing

Tue, 26 Apr 2022 13:59:38 -0400

A United Nations report shows how the world’s under-estimation of risk factors will lead to an expected increase from an average of 500 disasters per year now to 560 per year by 2030.

Today in Security: Russia Strikes Rail, Fuel Facilities In Ukraine as War Stretches into a Second Month

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 12:55:36 -0400

Russian troops struck rail and fuel facilities in Ukraine on Monday, hitting critical infrastructure targets further into the country and outside of Russia’s eastern offensive.

Today in Security: Held Hostage: FBI Raises Alarm on Ransomware Attacks Against Food & Agriculture Sector

Fri, 22 Apr 2022 11:43:04 -0400

The food and agriculture sector is facing a higher threat of ransomware attacks during critical planting and harvesting seasons, according to a notice issued by the FBI earlier this week.

Today in Security: Tensions Rise High Again Between Israel and Palestinians

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 13:16:19 -0400

Tensions in the Middle East have escalated since March, building up to some of the worst military exchanges in the region in years, including Arab and Israeli attacks in Israel and the West Bank.

Today in Security: No Mask? No Longer a Problem for Most U.S. Flights

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 14:10:30 -0400

A U.S. federal district judge in Florida struck down the CDC's mask mandate for public transportation, including planes, airports, trains, and subways. The decision led to several transportation providers to dropping their mask requirements, including airlines and ride-sharing companies, within hours of the ruling.

Today in Security:Migration Tumult at Mexico-U.S. Border Continues to Escalate

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 11:48:01 -0400

Migration issues along the Mexico-U.S. border are intensifying as the Biden Administration prepares to lift pandemic-related restrictions, Ukrainians and higher numbers of Cubans are added to the mix, Texas takes matters into its own hands, and desperate attempts to cross turn fatal.

Today in Security: 3 Mass Shootings Hit United States Over Weekend

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 11:29:10 -0400

In the course of one weekend, three mass shootings caused chaos in multiple communities across the United States. But they were hardly the only recent mass violence events.

Today in Security: No Longer a PIPEDREAM: Seventh ICS-Focused Malware Discovered

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 10:42:52 -0400

Researchers discovered a new malware that is designed to target Industrial Control Systems (ICS) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), bringing the total number of publicly known malwares to do this up to seven.

Today in Security: Suspect in Brooklyn Subway Shooting Arrested After 30-Hour Manhunt

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 12:21:25 -0400

New York City Police arrested Frank James, 62, for the Brooklyn subway shooting that left 10 people wounded on 12 April 2022. Security expert says James operated as an ideological extremist and his behavior should have raised red flags.

Today in Security: 77 Million More People Face Extreme Poverty Due to COVID-19 Challenges

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 11:48:54 -0400

People living in extreme poverty subsist on $1.90 a day or less. But poverty goes further than income, affecting hunger, malnutrition, limited access to education, and social discrimination.

Today in Security: U.S. DOJ Aims to Close Ghost Gun Loopholes

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 11:53:06 -0400

The U.S. Department of Justice submitted a final rule Monday that subjects kits used to build firearms—often called “ghost guns” because they lack serial numbers—to the same regulations as other firearms.

Today in Security: Recent Incidents and Exercises Highlight the Importance of Increasing Electric Grid Resilience, Information Sharing

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 13:54:24 -0400

These incidents, coupled with disruptions in electric service in Ukraine due to Russia’s invasion, highlight the fragility of the electric grid and the importance of pre-planning to respond quickly to mitigate further damage from physical attacks and cyber incidents.

Today in Security: New York College Father Faces Life in Prison for Abuse, Extortion, and Sex Trafficking

Thu, 07 Apr 2022 12:32:39 -0400

Likening himself to Roman emperors, Lawrence Ray claimed he wanted to help young adults and teenagers reach their potential. After a month-long trial, on Wednesday jurors found Ray guilty of 15 counts of extortion, sex trafficking, forced labor, and racketeering conspiracy.

Today in Security: Germany Seizes Hydra Market Servers and $25 Million in Bitcoin

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 12:19:32 -0400

In 2021, Hydra accounted for around 80 percent of all darknet market-related cryptocurrency transactions. The platform’s “Bitcoin Bank Mixer” service obfuscated digital transactions and made cryptocurrency investigations difficult for law enforcement agencies.

Today in Security: As Zelensky Makes Plea to U.N., International Bodies Open War Crimes Investigations in Ukraine

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 12:44:23 -0400

As authorities uncover the extent of the atrocities and devastation in Bucha—a suburb outside Kyiv—and other sites throughout Ukraine, there is growing international outrage and calls for charges of war crimes to be levied against Russia.

Today in Security: Economic Spiral Drives Rare Protests, Political Exodus in Sri Lanka

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 11:29:18 -0400

In response to economic woes and supply shortages, Sri Lankans launched demonstrations across the country last week—and the protests continue.

Today in Security: Defacing Art, Burglarizing Bears, Pageantry Fraud, and Other Unusual News

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 11:33:51 -0400

Each month Security Management brings you an installment of Strange Security, the offbeat, unusual, or just plain weird news we've run across.

Today in Security: COVID-19 Omicron Subvariant BA.2 on the Rise

Thu, 31 Mar 2022 09:58:26 -0400

While coronavirus case numbers have been on the decline in the United States, the highly contagious subvariant of Omicron, BA.2, increased its prominence in Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Western Pacific region. To what degree that happens in the United States will depend on vaccinations, federal support, and regional mandates.

Today in Security: UN Warns Ukraine Food Crisis is ‘Catastrophe on Top of a Catastrophe’

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 11:49:35 -0400

Ukraine is known as the breadbasket of Europe, but Russia’s invasion of the country has dried up agricultural exports and puts food security at risk worldwide.

Today in Security: Update on Safety and Security in Mexico

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 14:06:00 -0400

New report ties Mexican government and national defense forces to the 2014 abduction of 43 student-teachers, which is just one of spate of dismal safety and security issues being reported from the country.

Today in Security: El Salvador Declares State of Emergency Following Spike in Gang Violence

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 12:05:59 -0400

Sixty-two people were murdered in El Salvador on 26 March; police said it marked the most deadly 24 hours since the end of the country’s civil war in 1992.

Today in Security: Europe and United States Announce ‘Agreement in Principle’ to Replace Privacy Shield

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 12:50:04 -0400

After years of negotiations, the European Union and the United States announced Friday they have made an “agreement in principle” on a new framework for transatlantic data flows.

Today in Security: Okta Admits Breach Impacted 366 Clients

Thu, 24 Mar 2022 14:31:44 -0400

As the investigation into a January breach continues, authentication company Okta announced that about 2.5 percent of its customers were impacted by the breach.

Today in Security: The Search for Answers About Crashed Chinese Airplane Continues

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 13:07:00 -0400

Investigation continues into the cause of Monday’s aviation disaster in China’s Guangxi province. No survivors are expected, which would mark the most lethal plane crash in the country in more than decade.

Today in Security: U.S. Intelligence Finds Evidence of Increased Russian Probes of Cyber Vulnerabilities

Tue, 22 Mar 2022 11:54:35 -0400

U.S. President Joe Biden issued a statement Monday warning of Russian cyberattacks and asking U.S. companies in the critical infrastructure space to redouble their efforts to protect their systems from attacks.

Today in Security: Secret Service Report Advocates Behavioral Threat Assessments for Violent Misogynist Risks

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 10:11:40 -0400

While the shooter in a 2018 attack on a hot yoga studio in Florida did not specifically adopt labels frequently associated with violent misogyny, such as anti-feminist or involuntary celibate (also known as Incel), “his behavior and beliefs aligned with many who do,” said a recent U.S. Secret Service report.

Today in Security: Security Contractors and Aid Organizations Ramp-Up Ukrainian Evacuations

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 12:48:27 -0400

Calls come in at all times of the day and wheels are set in motion to move to get clients out of harm’s way. But in a conflict zone, that is not always possible, even for some of the largest security contractors in the world.

Today in Security: Undersea Earthquake in Japan Echoes Memories of Nuclear Disaster

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 13:42:56 -0400

An undersea earthquake shook the Fukushima, Japan, region on Wednesday for more than two minutes, causing significant structural damage, the deaths of four people, and reminding many of the far more severe 2011 earthquake and massive tsunami, which killed more than 19,000 people and triggered a massive nuclear disaster in the same region.

Today in Security: Ukrainian Refugee Crisis Raises Human Trafficking Concerns

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 11:34:33 -0400

Conflict-driven displacement can increase the risk of trafficking, according to the Council on Foreign Relations, and more than 70 percent of detected trafficking victims are female.

Today in Security: German Security Worker Strikes Cause Aviation Disruptions

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 11:47:47 -0400

German aviation security officers walked off the job at several airports in a dispute over wage disputes this week, wreaking havoc on air travel in the country.

Today in Security: Why Workers Quit

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 11:49:57 -0400

Low pay, a lack of opportunity for advancement, and feeling disrespected at work topped the list of reasons why Americans quit in 2021, with upwards of 60 percent citing these reasons as a primary point of contention, a new survey found.

Today in Security: Cyberattack Disrupts Ukraine’s Internet, But Destructive Attacks Remain Yet to Be Seen

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 12:16:56 -0500

Ukraine’s Internet service was disrupted this week after a cyberattack targeted telecoms provider Triolan. The firm—which provides service for the northeastern Kharkiv region—confirmed the incident and said it was working to restore service.

Today in Security: Jury Convicts U.S. Capitol Rioter in First Trial from 6 January Attack

Thu, 10 Mar 2022 12:36:47 -0500

Guy Wesley Reffitt, 49, was found guilty of five felony charges for his participation in the 6 January 2021 riot at the U.S. Capitol.

Today in Security: A Plethora of Multinational Companies Announce Suspension of Operations in Russia

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 10:33:07 -0500

Multinational corporations are suspending operations in Russia as both sanctions and public pressure pile up as a result of its invasion of Ukraine.

Today in Security: U.S. President Biden Preparing to Announce Cryptocurrency Approach

Tue, 08 Mar 2022 13:20:31 -0500

Executive order is expected to address wide-ranging U.S. governmental approach to cryptocurrency reflecting the many complex aspects of the issue, all with a backdrop of how cryptocurrency could be used to evade sanctions on Russia.

Today in Security: Counterfeiters Adapted and Thrived During COVID-19, Europol Finds

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 13:06:38 -0500

“Counterfeit food and drink products are often produced in settings with inadequate hygiene, using substandard and even harmful ingredients,” according to a report from Europol and the EUIPO. “As such, the constitute a significant risk to the health and safety of consumers.”

Today in Security: Military Conflict Causes Fire at Nuclear Power Plant

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 12:25:13 -0500

Russian military forces fired upon buildings at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine early Friday morning, starting fires and launching a major security response to quell the blaze before further damage could occur.

Today in Security: Fraudsters Net $5.9 Billion in 2021

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 13:57:50 -0500

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) released its 2021 Consumer Sentinel Network Data Book, with findings that indicate that last year saw a significant increase in identity theft and scammers targeting younger adults.

Today in Security: 3.3 Billion People Are Highly Vulnerable to Climate Change, IPCC Report Finds

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 11:49:07 -0500

“Today’s IPCC report is an atlas of human suffering and a damning indictment of failed climate leadership,” United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said in a statement. “With fact upon fact, this report reveals how people and the planet are getting clobbered by climate change.”

Today in Security: Symantec Discovers Advanced Cyber Espionage Tool Linked to China

Tue, 01 Mar 2022 12:17:42 -0500

The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency issued an alert about a China-linked, stealthy new cyber threat called Daxin, which is optimized for hardened targets that are not connected directly to the Internet.

Today in Security: The Second Front in Ukraine: Cyberattacks, Disinformation, and Defenses

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 12:00:15 -0500

More than half a million people have fled their homes to escape the war in Ukraine as major cities remain under attack. But there are two fronts in this war: the physical fighting and the digital domain, where cybersecurity professionals battle disinformation, psychological warfare, and cyberattacks.

Today in Security: Russia Invades Ukraine, Causing Ramp-Up of Kyiv and Civilian Defenses

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 14:30:51 -0500

Russian troops entered Ukraine on Thursday, striking cities and erecting a blockade on the western side of the capital city of Kyiv as Ukrainian forces attempted to hold off the advance.

Today in Security: Three White Supremacists Pled Guilty to Plotting Attack on U.S. Power Grid

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 12:29:36 -0500

Three white supremacists pled guilty to trying to start a race war by destroying components of the U.S. power grid.

Today in Security: Nations Leverage Sanctions Against Russia Over Incursions in Ukraine

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 11:31:34 -0500

While the United States and other nations have flatly denied the possibility of deploying troops to defend Ukraine from Russian military action, they are rolling out harsh new sanctions measures to raise the cost of invasion.

Today in Security: Research Highlights Growing Physical Security Threats

Tue, 22 Feb 2022 13:06:07 -0500

Research from Ontic shows physical security professionals see a dramatic increase in the risks posed by physical security threats and feel less prepared to deal with them.

Today in Security: World Leaders Gather at Munich Security Conference to Discuss Russian Aggression, Global Challenges

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 11:47:07 -0500

World leaders are gathered in Germany for the annual Munich Security Conference (MSC), with all eyes on the dialogue between representatives about Russia and Ukraine ahead of a potential invasion.

Today in Security: France to Withdraw from Mali

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 12:35:37 -0500

France and Western allies jointly announced on Thursday that they are coordinating a military withdrawal from Mali, citing obstacles from Mali’s ruling military government that blocked continued efforts to fight terrorism in the country.

Today in Security: Conspiracy Theories Exacerbated Extremism Threats in 2021

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 11:53:37 -0500

Killings by domestic extremists in the United States increased from 23 in 2020 to at least 29 in 2021, with right-wing extremists—fueled by conspiracy theories, misogyny, and anti-vaccine sentiments—killing 26 of those people.

Today in Security: Despite Hopeful Headlines, Russia-Ukraine Crisis Remains Tense

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 12:59:45 -0500

Russian foreign minister says there is still room for diplomacy, though its military build-up on the Ukraine border continues and the region remains on the brink of military conflict.

Today in Security: COVID-19 Fraud Could Cost UK Government Billions

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 12:14:11 -0500

British taxpayers could lose at least £4 billion ($5.3 billion) of COVID-19 support funds to fraudsters and mistakes, according to a report from the UK Public Accounts Committee, which scrutinizes state spending.

Today in Security: Super Bowl Security Team is Ready for Some Football and a Sunday Night Party

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 12:15:19 -0500

The Los Angeles Rams will take on the Cincinnati Bengals in this weekend’s championship game for the National Football League in the United States. NFL officials expect a “full house" and have been working with local, state, and federal partners to secure the event.

Today in Security: What Happens in Vegas Sends a Nun to Prison for Fraud

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 11:23:02 -0500

A Catholic nun in charge of a K-8 school's financial accounts felt she was owed several trips to gamble at casinos for 10 years. The more than $835,000 she embezzled could have paid for textbooks or school trips instead funded her private field trips to Las Vegas and Lake Tahoe.

Today in Security: Canadian Anti-Vaccine Protest Blocks International Trade Route

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 11:00:27 -0500

The busiest land crossing between the United States and Canada was closed 8 February because Canadian truckers blocked lanes to protest government pandemic control measures.

Today in Security: United States Charges Chinese Firm with Walkie-Talkie Technology Theft

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 11:56:22 -0500

The U.S. Department of Justice unsealed an indictment charging Chinese telecommunications company Hytera with conspiring to steal intellectual property.

Today in Security: Mexican Cartel Wars Escalate with IEDs

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 11:20:57 -0500

Rocket-propelled grenades and car bombs are well known cartel tools, but if verified, this would mark the first time IEDs have been successfully used by cartels in Mexico.

Today in Security: Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics Open, Amidst Boycotts and Cyber and Privacy Concerns

Fri, 04 Feb 2022 12:22:30 -0500

The Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics are officially underway in China following a more subdued opening ceremony on Friday as the nation continues to pursue a zero-COVID policy.

Today in Security: ISIS Leader Killed in U.S.-Led Raid

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 12:54:00 -0500

President Joe Biden announced that an early morning raid resulted in the death of Abu al-Qurayshi, leader of the Islamic State (ISIS), along with 12 other people, including women and children.

Today in Security: Using Blockchain for Supply Chain Visibility in the Food Sector

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 13:38:01 -0500

The U.S. FDA is drafting regulations that may push companies in the food and beverage sector to adopt blockchain technology to validate every step in the food supply chain.

Today in Security: U.S. Prisons on Lockdown Nationwide

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 12:16:26 -0500

U.S. Bureau of Prisons officials locked down all 120 federal prisons yesterday after brutal fights at a Beaumont, Texas, facility left two inmates dead and several more injured.

Today in Security: Fraud Goes Viral on Social Media

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 10:22:31 -0500

Of all people in the United States who reported losing money to fraud last year, one in four said it started with an ad, a post, or a message on social media, the Federal Trade Commission reported.

Today in Security: IRS Announces New Biometric Requirements for Tax Account Access as World Marks Data Privacy Day

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 13:26:01 -0500

File your taxes. But first, Americans may need to take a selfie. That’s the news this week when the U.S. Internal Revenue Service announced that to access IRS tax accounts later this year, individuals will need to record videos of their faces and send it to a private contractor—ID.me—to confirm their identity.

Today in Security: U.S. Department of Justice Launches Data Tracking and Analysis Tool for Prison Systems

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 14:03:33 -0500

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced the launch of Justice Counts, a program intended to provide a data-based view and analysis of state and local criminal justice systems.

Today in Security: Crowd Surge at Cameroon Soccer Match Sparks Investigation

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 14:52:07 -0500

Security officials have been blamed for making some fatal errors that exacerbated crowd crush conditions at an African Cup of Nations soccer game in Cameroon.

Today in Security: People Distrust by Default, Study Finds

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 12:08:09 -0500

Nearly six in 10 people say their default tendency is to distrust something until they see evidence it is trustworthy, contributing to what researchers called a “cycle of distrust.”

Today in Security: Airstrikes in Yemen Kill at Least 70 and Cause Nationwide Internet Outage

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 12:26:02 -0500

A Saudi Arabia-led military coalition launched airstrikes Friday in northern Yemen, killing at least 70 people and shutting off the nation’s Internet service.

Today in Security: Cyberattack Harvests Sensitive Data on People Helped by the Red Cross

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 14:49:44 -0500

A cyberattack exposed personal and confidential data from more than 515,000 people who were helped by Red Cross and Red Crescent organizations.

Today in Security: Alleged U.S. Airport Risks Stall 5G Rollout Again

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 10:30:24 -0500

Airports and the FAA claim that 5G cell services could potentially interfere with critical airplane technology, which could disrupt pilots’ ability to land safely in conditions where visibility is limited.

Today in Security: Security Training Saves Synagogue Hostages

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 14:37:39 -0500

On Saturday, a gunmen held people hostage in a synagogue in Texas for 11 hours. The last three hostages seized an opportunity and fled, crediting the security training they received for their ability to escape.

Today in Security: Ukraine and Russia Arrest Ransomware Actors as Talks Stall, and More Security News from Around the Globe

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 11:32:41 -0500

While talks stalled between Western and Russian officials about the country’s increasingly aggressive posture and troop buildup on the border of Ukraine, activity in the cyber sphere was speeding ahead.

Today in Security: Courts Keep Police Fired for Choosing Pokémon Over Protect and Serve

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 11:13:15 -0500

A California appeals court found that two police officers were properly dismissed from the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) when the officers decided to catch ‘em all—specifically, the on-duty officers opted to catch virtual Pokémon instead of the very real robbers nearby.

Today in Security: 2021 Extreme Weather Cost the Globe at Least $280 Billion

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 11:13:28 -0500

Natural disasters caused total losses of at least $280 billion in 2021, but less than half of those losses were insured, according to Munich Re.

Today in Security: U.S.-Russian Talks on Ukraine Go Nowhere

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 12:42:23 -0500

Tensions remain high in Europe as Russia continues to mass troops on its border with Ukraine while demanding guarantees that NATO not expand.

Today in Security: China Races to Contain COVID-19 Outbreak in Tianjin

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 09:00:51 -0500

The city of Tianjin, China, is in a race to test all 14 million of its residents within the next 48 hours after a small cluster of COVID-19 cases was discovered.

Today in Security: Kazakhstan’s Leader to Quell Rebellion by Authorizing Lethal Force Against Protestors

Fri, 07 Jan 2022 10:43:36 -0500

Kazakhstan’s leader authorized security personnel with aid from Russian troops to “fire without warning” on protestors to restore order and end an uprising.

Today in Security: One-Year Anniversary of 6 January Capitol Riot

Thu, 06 Jan 2022 13:02:31 -0500

It's been one year since protesters became rioters, attacking the U.S. Capitol. Many people are still feeling the impact of the attack.

Today in Security: Omicron Drives COVID-19 Spike in United States

Wed, 05 Jan 2022 10:18:52 -0500

A record-breaking 1,080,211 new cases of COVID-19 were reported in the United States on 3 January 2022—the highest one-day tally worldwide.

Today in Security: U.S. Marshals Arrest 84,000 Fugitives in 2021

Tue, 04 Jan 2022 11:34:09 -0500

From October 2020 through September 2021, U.S. Marshals arrested more than 84,000 fugitives, an 8.7 percent increase over the previous year.

Today in Security: Fire Guts Parts of South Africa Parliament Complex

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 09:47:56 -0500

Authorities arrested a man in connection with the fire. He is expected to appear in court Tuesday on charges of breaking and entering, theft, and arson.

Today in Security: Settlement Falls Through in Parkland School Shooting Negligence Lawsuit, Sending it to Trial

Thu, 23 Dec 2021 12:24:19 -0500

Lawsuits filed against the U.S. government, alleging that its inaction enabled the 2018 school shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, will be fought out in court.

Today in Security: Omicron Surge Spurs Lockdowns, Testing Pushes

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 11:07:48 -0500

The Omicron variant of COVID-19 is spreading rapidly across the world, triggering returns to early-pandemic restrictions to try to limit the spread while scientists assess Omicron’s risks, how much health systems can withstand, and whether vaccines and other treatments are effective.

Today in Security: U.S. Military Updates Its Guidance on Handling Extremism

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 13:40:35 -0500

The U.S. military updated its guidelines on handling extremism in its ranks, seeking to clarify the types of behaviors the rules prohibit while still seeking to limit encroachment of members’ First Amendment right to freedom of speech.

Today in Security: Latest TikTok Trend: School Violence Warnings

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 10:32:37 -0500

At least a dozen school districts in the United States were on alert last week after posts on social media platform TikTok warned of school violence and threats.

Today in Security: Meta Takes Action Against Surveillance-For-Hire Firms, Notifies 50,000 Potential Targets

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 11:58:47 -0500

Meta notified 50,000 people in more than 100 countries that surveillance-for-hire firms were targeting their accounts for intelligence, manipulation, or compromise, the parent company of Facebook announced Thursday.

Today in Security: GAO Directs Federal Law Enforcement to Improve Reporting on Less-Lethal Force

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 10:21:18 -0500

The U.S. Government Accountability Office reported its findings on the use of less-lethal force applied by law enforcement agencies during the 2020 protests in Oregon and Washington, D.C., sparked by George Floyd's murder.

Today in Security: Americans Keep Forgetting Firearms in Luggage

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 10:50:03 -0500

The U.S. Transportation Security Administration announced on 13 December that security personnel confiscated more than 5,700 firearms at airport security checkpoints in 2021—breaking records for the most firearms detected in a single year.

Today in Security: In Germany, Injury that Occurs on Morning Commute from Bedroom to Home Office is a Work-Related Injury

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 11:31:49 -0500

Germany’s Federal Social Court ruled that a man who slipped on his staircase and broke his back while walking to start his day in his home office is entitled to workers’ compensation.

Today in Security: Software Vendors Scramble to Address Log4j Vulnerability

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 11:18:22 -0500

Because so many enterprise and open-source software products use Log4j—including cloud platforms, Web applications, and email services—a newly discovered vulnerability puts many critical online functions at risk.

Today in Security: Parents of School Shooting Survivors File Lawsuit to Hold District Officials Accountable

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 12:22:32 -0500

A week after a school shooting in Michigan killed four students and injured several others, the family of two survivors filed a lawsuit against school officials seeking $100 million in damages.

Today in Security: Securitas to Buy Stanley Security for $3.2 Billion

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 12:27:28 -0500

Recent acquisitions emphasize Securitas AB’s—one of the world’s largest protective services companies—shift from a reliance on security guards to electronic solutions.

Today in Security: Alcohol Misuse Hit Record Highs During Lockdowns

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 10:33:49 -0500

Worldwide, up to 3.3 million people die as a result of alcohol abuse every year. But lockdowns and stress from the COVID-19 pandemic drove alcohol misuse rates even higher than before.

Today in Security: U.S. Military Sees Ransomware as National Security Threat

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 09:43:46 -0500

For the first time, the U.S. military acknowledged publicly that it has taken action against ransomware groups.

Today in Security: Tensions High in Nagaland After Security Forces Open Fire on Civilians

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 10:50:39 -0500

Security forces in India killed 14 civilians during the weekend after a botched operation against alleged insurgents in the area, leading to widespread protests and anger.

Today in Security: TSA Announces New Cyber Requirements for Rail Operators, and More

Fri, 03 Dec 2021 15:18:32 -0500

It’s been a busy week, especially in the cybersecurity arena. Here’s a rundown of some of the top news from around the world.

Today in Security: Early Warning Systems Against Climate Events and Natural Disasters

Thu, 02 Dec 2021 11:59:43 -0500

Early warning systems could offer local communities help against an increasing number of climate-induced or climate-related disasters, with additional minutes used to save lives.

Today in Security: Lockdown Procedures Saved Lives in Michigan School Shooting, Sheriff Says

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 12:00:29 -0500

A 15-year-old high school student is accused of fatally shooting three classmates and injuring at least eight other people.

Today in Security: Chinese Authorities Contract to Use Facial Recognition to Label, Track Journalists and Others

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 12:19:25 -0500

Reuters reported that Henan, China, contracted with a technology company to build a system that would use facial recognition to track journalists, international students, and other “suspicious people.”

Today in Security: WHO Announces New Variant of Concern

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 12:25:04 -0500

While many questions remain unanswered as scientists test the limits of the Omicron variant, here’s your basic primer.

Today in Security: Legal Roundup: White Nationalist Rally Organizers Found Liable for Damages

Wed, 24 Nov 2021 10:39:26 -0500

A jury determined that the white nationalists who organized and participated in the 2017 Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, were liable for more than $26 million in damages.

Today in Security: Rash of Swarming, Snatch-and-Run Incidents Hits High-End Retailers

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 12:31:51 -0500

Call it a flash rob: On Saturday in Walnut Creek, California, just outside San Francisco, approximately 80 people perpetrated a coordinated attack on a Nordstrom department store. It’s one of several similar incidents in the last few weeks.

Today in Security: Confusion, Chaos After Driver Plows Through Holiday Parade

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 13:09:54 -0500

More than 40 people were injured and five killed after a vehicle rammed through a holiday parade in Wisconsin. “With the upcoming holiday season, any event that is vulnerable—including outdoor holiday markets—should be looked at immediately with fresh eyes,” says Joe Hendry, PSP.

Today in Security: CISA Launches ChemLock Program to Share Security Expertise

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 13:07:11 -0500

CISA launches the voluntary ChemLock program to provide resources, tools, and onsite services to chemical facilities that pose a risk but are not subject to regulation.

Today in Security: CDC Reports Record High of More Than 100,000 Drug Overdose Deaths

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 13:15:42 -0500

For the first time in U.S. history, there were more than 100,000 deaths from fatal drug overdoses within a year, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. Complications over the supply chain for an overdose reversal drug may lead to those numbers continuing to rise.

Today in Security: Mitigating Information Disorder Risks Requires Whole of Society Approach

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 11:14:57 -0500

Misinformation and disinformation are problems that cannot be completely solved, but their risks can be mitigated, according to the Aspen Institute’s Commission on Information Disorder.

Today in Security: Russia Blows Up Satellite in Latest Escalation of Space Militarization

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 12:42:44 -0500

Russia fired a ground-based missile into space, exploding an obsolete Soviet-era satellite in a test of its capabilities and illustrating the precarious reliance on space-based equipment.

Today in Security: Europe Reemerges as COVID-19 Epicenter, Sparking Lockdowns

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 10:52:51 -0500

Europe posted a weekly 7 percent increase in deaths and a 10 percent increase in cases, according to the World Health Organization. It is the only region in the world where cases and deaths are steadily increasing.

Today in Security: EU Officials Threaten Increased Sanctions as Migrant Crisis in Belarus Escalates

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 11:58:58 -0500

A migrant crisis on the border of Belarus is threatening to become more volatile as fall creeps into winter, exposing thousands of people to even more harsh conditions as they attempt to enter the European Union.

Today in Security: Conflict in Ethiopia Escalates

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 11:12:48 -0500

At least 16 United Nations local employees were detained in Ethiopia this week, and a government spokesman said they were held for their “participation in terror.”

Today in Security: The Good Guys Score Wins Against Ransomware Criminals

Tue, 09 Nov 2021 11:45:55 -0500

The United States unsealed court documents on Monday and announced the apprehension of the suspected mastermind behind the most potent REvil ransomware attacks.

Today in Security: Deadly Crowd Surge at Houston Concert Prompts Investigations into Security, Preparedness

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 13:17:23 -0500

As rapper Travis Scott took the stage on 5 November at music festival Astroworld in Houston, Texas, concertgoers’ excitement quickly turned to panic after the crowd of 50,000 people started to surge forward—crushing hundreds and killing eight people.

Today in Security: China’s New Data Privacy Law Goes Into Effect

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 11:33:55 -0400

China's new data privacy law went into effect this week, and it is already sending shockwaves through the global economy as international firms reassess how they will continue to do business in the country.

Today in Security: Latest Air Rage Incident: Passenger Punches American Airlines Flight Attendant in the Face

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 12:18:55 -0400

A late-October incident on an American Airlines flight added to the increasing reports of unruly or violent passengers attacking flight staff and other passengers, and even attempting to force their way into cockpit areas.

Today in Security: Ransomware Actors Use Financial Events to Select Targets

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 10:29:58 -0400

Ransomware actors are likely using significant financial events like mergers or acquisitions to target and leverage victim companies—threatening to disclose nonpublic financial information that could trigger investor backlash if victims do not pay up promptly, the FBI warns.

Today in Security: New Techniques Pave Way for Dark Web Marketplaces to Flourish

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 13:35:10 -0400

White House Market was the largest dark market for drugs, stolen data, and other illicit activity. While it closed down, its methods live on and make catching its successors that much harder.

Today in Security: COVID-19 Death Toll Reaches 5 Million

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 10:30:21 -0400

United Nations Secretary General António Guterres called the COVID-19 death toll “a devastating milestone” and a clear warning to the world not to let down its guard.

Today in Security: Officials Arrest 12 Alleged Ransomware Actors Suspected of Attacking Critical Infrastructure

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 10:38:11 -0400

Officials arrested 12 individuals in Ukraine and Switzerland on 26 October for their alleged role in carrying out ransomware attacks against critical infrastructure, Europol announced on Friday.

Today in Security: Another Day, Another Report of Cyber Attacks and Resulting Fallout

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 10:50:25 -0400

Three high-profile cyber attacks in the past few days indicate the ongoing war between hackers with malicious intent and cybersecurity postures of companies, organizations, and nations continues without abatement.

Today in Security: Return to In-Person Classes Spurs Violence and Behavioral Challenges

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 10:34:03 -0400

There were 97 reported gun-related incidents in U.S. schools between 1 August and 1 October 2021, compared to 29 in the same period of 2019.

Today in Security: Gunman Attacks Shopping Mall in Boise

Tue, 26 Oct 2021 11:36:16 -0400

Two people were killed and five injured at a Boise, Idaho, shopping mall on 25 October. The gunman was one of those injured and is in custody in critical condition.

Today in Security: NGOs Continue to Leave Hong Kong

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 11:18:13 -0400

Human rights group Amnesty International is the latest in a line of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and other humanitarian groups to cease operations in Hong Kong as a result of the 2020 National Security Law and its chilling effect on political dissent and international involvement.

Today in Security: New U.S. Assessments Highlight Climate Change Risks to National Security and Financial Systems

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 14:15:04 -0400

New assessments on climate change and the national security ramifications highlighted the numerous ways the world is already experiencing instability.

Today in Security: CDC Backs Mix-and-Match Booster Shots

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 13:26:34 -0400

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expanded guidance this week regarding the booster doses for COVID-19 vaccines.

Today in Security: Kidnapping in Haiti on Sharp Incline, Missionaries Abducted

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 11:37:31 -0400

The influx of kidnapping events is due to a culmination of events, including political crises—a void in political leadership and infighting, natural disasters, and a national police system that is already strained and weak.

Today in Security: Power Outages in Puerto Rico Produce Protests

Tue, 19 Oct 2021 12:36:27 -0400

On 15 October, thousands of residents in Puerto Rico protested against widespread blackouts and unreliable electricity, blocking main highway traffic and demanding the ouster of private power company Luma.

Today in Security: UK Reevaluates Politician Security After Stabbing Attack

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 11:17:32 -0400

The ease of access to Sir David Amess and the suddenness of the attack sparked memories of the 2016 killing of MP Jo Cox, leading lawmakers to suggest changes to parliamentarian protection, including appointment-only meetings with constituents or increased security.

Today in Security: U.S. Joint Advisory Warns Water Sector of Ongoing Cyber Threats

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 11:52:52 -0400

Threat actors are consistently attempting to infiltrate U.S. water and wastewater sector (WWS) facilities, according to a joint advisory issued Thursday.

Today in Security: Bow and Arrow Attack in Norway Leaves 5 Dead

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 12:05:25 -0400

After a bow-and-arrow attack in Kongsberg, Norway, left five people dead and three others injured, authorities have a suspect in custody.

Today in Security: University Cancels Class Amid Mental Health Crisis

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 12:03:18 -0400

After campus police responded to a reported suicide and an attempted suicide in the course of a weekend, officials at the University of North Carolina (UNC) at Chapel Hill canceled classes on 12 October and declared a Wellness Day.

Today in Security: U.S. Couple Charged with Attempting to Sell Nuclear Submarine Secrets

Tue, 12 Oct 2021 11:40:35 -0400

An engineer working for the U.S. Navy and his wife are scheduled to be arraigned Tuesday after allegedly selling secrets to an undercover FBI agent in a case involving encrypted emails, cryptocurrency, and a dead drop of an SD card in a half-eaten peanut butter sandwich.

Today in Security: U.S. Creates Cryptocurrency Enforcement Team to Crack Down on Ransomware Payments

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 12:30:24 -0400

The U.S. Department of Justice is launching an initiative to address the use of cryptocurrency to facilitate criminal activity, including ransomware.

Today in Security: 5.9 Earthquake in Pakistan Leaves at Least 15 People Dead

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 11:59:58 -0400

A 5.9-magnitude earthquake in southern Pakistan has left at least 15 dead and injured hundreds of people, collapsing approximately 250 homes and at least one coal mine.

Today in Security: One-Third of Employees Observed Cannabis Use at Work, Survey Finds

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 12:18:09 -0400

Among companies that have eliminated THC testing, more than half reported an increase in incidents or workplace performance concerns.

Today in Security: Report Details Appalling Extent of French Catholic Church’s Child Sex Abuse

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 12:12:29 -0400

An independent commission studied 70 years of behavior of Catholic officials in France and determined that as many as 3,200 clergy abused or assaulted as many as 216,000 children—numbers that climb even higher when nonclergy affiliations to the church are included.

Today in Security: U.S. Agencies Need Documentation, Continuous Improvement for Remote Work Cybersecurity

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 11:40:25 -0400

After a review of 12 agencies, the GAO found that while all of them invested in the technology needed to support remote work, four had not fully documented their plans to mitigate weaknesses found in IT security controls.

Today in Security: RFID and Weapons Tracking; Ecuadoran Jail Riot; School Boards Call for Help; and More

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 08:06:28 -0400

The National School Boards Association has asked U.S. President Joe Biden for federal assistance to investigate and stop threats over mask mandate and other COVID-19 policies—likening the threats to a form of domestic terrorism.

Today in Security: Targeting Broken Cameras; Closing Terrorism Loopholes; and More

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 07:47:43 -0400

In the wake of a terrorist attack that left seven people stabbed and wounded in a supermarket earlier this month in Auckland, New Zealand has passed a new security law outlawing preparations for terror attacks.

Today in Security: Hospital Issues Panic Buttons; Guidance for Hardening VPNs; Do Vaccine Mandates Work; and More

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 09:40:10 -0400

Facing rapidly increasing workplace violence, a Missouri hospital system adds panic buttons to ID badges. In other news, the NSA and CISA issue an information sheet on securing VPNs; how workers are responding to vaccine manadates; a major police crackdown in Europe; and Capital Gazette shooter sentenced.

Today in Security: U.S. Homicides Increase; Britain Fuel Shortages; Korean Tensions; and More

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 08:40:26 -0400

FBI reports U.S. experiences largest year-over-year homicide increase since it started keeping statistics. In other news, unrest in Britain over fuel shortages, North Korea launches test missile in direction of Japan, U.S. gang leaders plead guilty, and women are experiencing workplace burnout.

Today in Security: Huawei Executive Released; Active Assailant Preparedness; and More

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 09:18:51 -0400

Canada releases Chinese technology company executive after deal with U.S. prosecutors reached; Tennessee town had planned for mass violence; alarms and security systems stand in way of 5G updates; ransomware negotiation turns strange; and a look at who's really going back to the office.

Today in Security: Welcome to GSX 2021!

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 05:00:10 -0400

Security Management is in Orlando, Florida, this week at GSX 2021 covering the education sessions, keynote presentations, and technology trends on display.

Today in Security: Delegates Call on UN Security Council to Act on Climate Change

Fri, 24 Sep 2021 11:50:03 -0400

Multiple delegates issued warnings Thursday to the UN Security Council that a warmer planet will also be more violent and called on members to make global warming a part of all UN peacekeeping operations.

Today in Security: Volcano Erupts on the Canary Islands

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 13:18:14 -0400

As a volcano on one of the Spanish Canary Islands has its first major eruption in 50 years, spewing a steady stream of lava, roughly 6,000 residents evacuate the island and emergency workers continue to try to divert the lava’s flow from reaching the ocean and destroying more of the island.

Today in Security: COVID-19 Pushes Cities to Revamp Overall Security Efforts

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 11:32:17 -0400

Agencies responsible for personal safety had to address a lockdown-driven shift in crime patterns, and unexpected crises—like COVID-19—pushed residents and officials to reprioritize environmental security, a recent report found.

Today in Security: OSHA Developing Rules to Curb Workplace Heat-Related Illnesses

Tue, 21 Sep 2021 10:54:39 -0400

The agency announced it will develop rules for U.S. employers in an effort to mitigate the potential hazards of hot working conditions.

Today in Security: U.S. Begins Mass Expulsion of Haitian Migrants

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 13:50:24 -0400

Haitians represent around 4 percent of the migrants encountered by U.S. border agents in August 2021, but the numbers are far higher than in recent years.

Today in Security: Security Personnel on High-Alert for Saturday Rally at the U.S. Capitol

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 12:00:50 -0400

Security personnel are on alert and warning of the potential for violence ahead of a rally on Saturday to support people involved in the 6 January riot at the U.S. Capitol.

Today in Security: ICC Opens Full Investigation Into Philippine Bloody War on Drugs

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 13:55:45 -0400

The International Criminal Court approved opening an investigation into crimes that may have been committed in the Philippines during its drug war, as allegations arise of thousands of civilian murders under Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration.

Today in Security: Globalization Drives Disconnect in Corporate Anti-Corruption Efforts, Report Finds

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 12:07:42 -0400

Despite large organizations’ ongoing efforts to bolster their corruption defenses, 57 percent of large companies reported “very significant” impacts from corruption, fraud, and other illicit activity.

Today in Security: Organizations Wrestle with How to Enforce Health Policies

Tue, 14 Sep 2021 14:51:09 -0400

Enforcement responsibility for vaccine mandates, mask mandates, and other health policies is being vested in frontline personnel.

Today in Security: Extreme Heat Expected to Melt Labor Productivity, Report Finds

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 11:10:41 -0400

In addition to economic effects, extreme heat causes approximately 120,000 occupational injuries in a normal year, but that could rise fourfold to approximately 450,000 by 2050 without intervention.

Today in Security: Twenty Years Later: Security Ramifications and Reflections on the 9/11 Attacks

Fri, 10 Sep 2021 14:26:27 -0400

Saturday marks the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks that led to a turning point in the security profession and the beginning of America's longest war in Afghanistan.

Today in Security: Road Deaths Still on the Rise in 2021

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 12:00:09 -0400

Although 2020 already saw an increase in motor vehicle deaths, the first half of 2021 hosts an even higher number of fatalities as more people return to regular driving, according to a preliminary report from the National Safety Council.

Today in Security: Europe Faces More Diversified, Violent Cocaine Trade

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 10:51:39 -0400

As the tumultuous cocaine market booms in Europe, it has been accompanied by an increase in violence—assassinations, shootings, bombings, arsons, kidnappings, torture, and intimidation, Europol reported.

Today in Security: Profile of a Ransomware Target

Tue, 07 Sep 2021 12:43:43 -0400

Research examines the Dark Web advertisements of ransomware perpetuators to build a profile of the ideal target: a U.S.-based company with at least $100 million in revenue not operating in taboo sectors.

Today in Security: Police Kill Extremist who Stabbed Six People in Grocery Store Attack

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 10:31:45 -0400

A man thought to be inspired by ISIS stabbed six people in an Auckland, New Zealand, grocery store before being shot and killed by a police surveillance team.

Today in Security: WhatsApp Hit With Second-Largest GDPR Fine

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 12:45:25 -0400

The Irish Data Protection Commission (DPC) issued a new record high fine against WhatsApp for breaching privacy regulations under the European Union’s GDPR rules.

Today in Security: FBI Reports Another Rise in Hate Crime in 2020

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 12:51:39 -0400

The FBI received reports of more than 10,000 offenses that were motivated by bias against race, gender, sexuality, religion, or disability in 2020, and the number of crimes against Asian and Black Americans surged 70 and 40 percent, respectively.

Today in Security: U.S. Forces Complete Withdrawal from Afghanistan, Ending 20-Year War Effort

Tue, 31 Aug 2021 12:21:29 -0400

The U.S. military completed its withdrawal from Afghanistan on 31 August, marking the end of America’s longest war and a new era for the nation now under Taliban control.

Today in Security: Hurricane Ida Knocks Out Power in Parts of Louisiana

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 10:19:15 -0400

Two out of five generators at a Thibodaux Regional Health Systems hospital failed during the power outage, and hospital staff were forced to move patients—including critical care COVID-19 patients—down stairwells to functional areas of the hospital.

Today in Security: China Approves GDPR-Style Privacy Law

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 08:28:30 -0400

The new Personal Information Protection Law in China imposes major restrictions on the collection and use of personal data by companies, however, the government is not subject to the same restrictions.

Today in Security: Bombing at Kabul Airport Interrupts Evacuations

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 11:35:17 -0400

Pentagon officials have confirmed an explosion from a suicide bombing occurred at the Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul, Afghanistan.

Today in Security: Flood of Panic Calls Overwhelmed Capitol Police Protocols on 6 January, Report Found

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 11:31:48 -0400

Because so many officers were pressing their panic buttons, their colleagues couldn’t respond to all calls and had to prioritize, one law enforcement official told the Associated Press.

Today in Security: Luck May Have Run Out for Massachusetts Family Accused of Using Lottery for Tax Fraud

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 12:32:31 -0400

On Monday, Ali Jaafar and sons Mohamed and Yousef were charged with fraud, money laundering, and tax evasion for allegedly running a ticket cashing scheme. The Jaafars cashed more than 13,000 winning lottery tickets worth nearly $21 million over eight years.

Today in Security: Afghanistan Evacuations Face IS Terrorist Threats

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 12:36:05 -0400

Potential terrorist threats have further complicated evacuation efforts in Afghanistan. U.S. defense officials are searching for alternative ways to get Americans, Afghans, and others safely to the Kabul airport.

Today in Security: Western Allies Scramble to Evacuate Citizens, Afghans from Kabul as Tensions Rise

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 12:08:16 -0400

Western allies are increasing efforts to evacuate citizens and Afghans amidst rising tensions in Kabul this week. More than 5,000 U.S. troops are at the Kabul airport to aid in the evacuation effort, and European countries are pledging to evacuate individuals at special risk from the Taliban—feminists, political activists, and journalists.

Today in Security: BlackBerry Finally Announces BadAlloc Vulnerability in QNX Devices

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 12:46:57 -0400

Blackberry became aware of a vulnerability that impacted multiple components of its software in April 2021, but waited until this week to disclose it after facing increased pressure.

Today in Security: Students Arrested in Hong Kong for ‘Advocating Terrorism’

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 10:05:14 -0400

Four student union leaders were suspected of “advocating terrorism,” officials said, after the students held a moment of silence for a man who stabbed a Hong Kong police officer before killing himself.

Today in Security: Earthquake, Tropical Storm Cause Humanitarian Crisis in Haiti

Tue, 17 Aug 2021 12:19:02 -0400

Still dealing with political unrest following the 7 July assassination of President Jovenel Moïse and a ravaging COVID-19 pandemic, a 7.2 magnitude earthquake did massive damage in Haiti on Saturday—further exacerbated by Tropical Storm Grace.

Today in Security: Afghans Desperate to Escape Taliban Stall Flights at Airport

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 12:09:31 -0400

As Taliban forces entered and took control of the Afghan capital of Kabul this weekend, thousands of people scrambled to escape the country.

Today in Security: Allied Troops Deployed to Afghanistan to Aid in Embassy Evacuations, Europol Issues Jihadi Terrorism Analysis, UN Calls for Ban on Surveillance Technology, and More

Fri, 13 Aug 2021 11:47:53 -0400

Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States are deploying troops to Afghanistan to aid in securing their embassies in Kabul as the Taliban advances, taking control of more than 18 provincial capitals in the country.

Today in Security: COVID-19 News Roundup

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 11:20:56 -0400

The CDC issued new guidance recommending pregnant women, those who were recently pregnant, and those who plan to become pregnant get the COVID-19 vaccine.

Today in Security: Taliban Continues Rapid Offensive in Afghanistan

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 11:06:21 -0400

As U.S. and allied troops withdraw from Afghanistan, Taliban fighters are taking advantage of the shifting situation to consolidate power and take control of swaths of territory in the country.

Today in Security: Mexico Safety and Security Update: Cartel Threatens to Kill Journalist

Tue, 10 Aug 2021 13:05:43 -0400

A powerful Mexican cartel issued an unusual video threat to a news anchor claiming unfair coverage. In other news, the government of Mexico is suing U.S. gun manufacturers and calling on its National Guard to protect fuel shippers from striking workers.

Today in Security: UN Climate Report Sounds Alarm Bells for Humanity, Global Security

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 12:04:32 -0400

The sixth assessment report from the United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Changes (IPCC) pulls no punches—it paints a grim picture of the state of the climate and the future of the planet unless drastic action is taken.

Today in Security: Apple to Roll Out Photo Scanning to Detect Child Abuse Images

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 13:23:05 -0400

Apple announced it will begin conducting checks on photos to detect images of child sexual abuse before they are uploaded to its iCloud storage service. If images are detected, the company will report the material.

Today in Security: Wildfires and Extreme Heat Grip Southern Europe

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 12:49:02 -0400

The latest surge of wildfires pushing through parts of Greece, Italy, Spain, and Turkey are now threatening areas near Greece’s capital. Residents of both Athens and the nearby island of Evia were forced to flee from the flames.

Today in Security: Federal Agencies Lagging Behind on Cybersecurity, Senate Committee Finds

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 11:16:50 -0400

The report, Federal Cybersecurity: America’s Data Still At Risk, found that only one out of the eight U.S. federal agencies audited for their cybersecurity programs showed improvements in 2020.

Today in Security: Iran Blamed for Drone Attack on Tanker in Gulf of Oman

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 10:54:14 -0400

Blamed by Israel, the UK, and the United States, Iran denies involvement in the incident that killed two crew members and is seen as the latest attack in the shadow war between Israel and Iran.

Today in Security: Preliminary Settlement Reached Over Zoombombing, Privacy Issues

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 10:36:57 -0400

Zoom has agreed to pay $85 million to settle a class action privacy lawsuit that alleged the company invaded millions of users’ privacy by sharing personal data with third-party applications.

Today in Security: New Data on Delta Emerges as Authorities Issue Vaccine Mandates

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 12:07:40 -0400

New analysis says the delta variant of COVID-19 spreads easily and may cause more severe illness than other variants of the disease, according to internal U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) documents

Today in Security: Cuban Government Lashes Back at Protesters

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 12:41:57 -0400

Civil rights groups estimate that roughly 700 Cuban protesters were arrested or detained by the authorities in response to demonstrations earlier this month.

Today in Security: Tech Counterterrorism Organization Expands Focus to Include Ethnonationalists, Domestic Extremists

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 11:01:22 -0400

A counterterrorism organization of major technology companies announced that it will expand the types of extremism content shared between firms in a key database to include white supremacist and far-right militia manifestos, as well as Islamic terrorist content.

Today in Security: California, New York City Mandate COVID-19 Vaccine for Government Workers

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 12:37:39 -0400

As the delta variant surges and the CDC prepares revised recommendations, government and agencies and healthcare providers issue vaccine mandates.

Today in Security: UN Report Finds Africa Hardest Hit by Terrorism in 2021

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 10:45:02 -0400

Across Africa, terrorist groups use illicit revenue and financial flows to lure in new recruits with promises of loans, employment, or community.

Today in Security: Olympics Begin in Tokyo with Security Measures in the Spotlight

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 11:43:54 -0400

After a year of postponement and major revisions to the competition events to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the 2020 Olympics officially began in Tokyo Friday morning with the Opening Ceremony.

Today in Security: New Vigilante Group Hosts Public Demonstration in Southern Mexico

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 12:49:08 -0400

A new self-defense group organized in Mexico in response to cartels’ influence and reach throughout the country. Members of the vigilante movement, “El Machete,” participated in a demonstration at a sports stadium in Chiapas, Mexico, with weapons on display.

Today in Security: United States Says Chinese State-Sponsored Actors Targeted Oil and Natural Gas Pipeline Companies

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 13:23:22 -0400

Chinese state-sponsored actors conducted a spearphishing and intrusion campaign targeting U.S. oil and natural gas pipeline companies, according to a Joint Cybersecurity Advisory issued on Tuesday.

Today in Security: First Felony Sentence Handed Down to Capitol Rioter

Tue, 20 Jul 2021 12:59:10 -0400

In what could be a precedent for other cases, Paul Allard Hodgkins was sentenced to eight months in federal prison on Monday, becoming the first person punished for felony activities undertaken during the riot on the U.S. Capitol on 6 January 2021.

Today in Security: Journalists, Activists Among Those Surveilled by Governments Via Pegasus Hack

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 14:06:50 -0400

A group of more than 80 reporters, coordinated through the Paris-based NGO Forbidden Stories, revealed that at least 180 journalists have been targeted by spyware Pegasus users—government clients of Israeli private cyber-surveillance company NSO Group.

Today in Security: U.S. Takes Steps to Combat Ransomware

Fri, 16 Jul 2021 10:59:30 -0400

The United States announced this week it will consolidate government information and guidance from a variety of agencies into a single ransomware portal and work to limit cryptocurrency money laundering tool for cyber criminals.

Today in Security: Report Finds Failure in FBI Response to Child Abuse Related to Convicted Gymnastics Doctor

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 13:58:31 -0400

The U.S. Department of Justice Inspector General found that the FBI failed in its investigation of Larry Nassar, the former USA Gymnastics team doctor who in 2018 received a prison sentence of up to 175 years, partly for child abuse and sexual assault.

Today in Security: Protests Escalate into Looting, Violence in South Africa

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 10:10:17 -0400

While many blame criminal elements for the violence and theft, it is difficult to ignore some of the economic and social elements behind malcontent in the country.

Today in Security: Police Arrest Four With Large Weapons Cache Near Baseball’s All-Star Game

Tue, 13 Jul 2021 11:44:19 -0400

Four suspects were arrested on weapons and drug charges this weekend at a hotel one block from the Denver stadium hosting the Major Leagues Baseball All-Star Game.

Today in Security: Gangs and Security Forces Clash Violently in Venezuela

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 10:50:51 -0400

After days of clashes in Caracas, 22 suspected gang members and four police offers were killed, as well as an unspecified number of civilians.

Today in Security: Suspects Detained in Haiti, Tokyo in State of Emergency, Taliban Advances in Herat, and More

Fri, 09 Jul 2021 12:20:19 -0400

As the world still reels from the recent Kaseya ransomware attack, there were several other high profile security incidents and reports that the Security Management team was keeping an eye on throughout the week.

Today in Security: U.S. Air Force Held Partly Liable for 2017 Texas Mass Shooting

Thu, 08 Jul 2021 13:34:23 -0400

A U.S. district judge in San Antonio ruled that the U.S. Air Force is significantly responsible for a shooting perpetrated by a former serviceman at a Texas church that left more than two dozen people dead in 2017.

Today in Security: Haiti President Assassinated, Instability and Conflict Loom

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 10:15:37 -0400

Gang violence, inflation, and food and fuel scarcity have already hit Haiti hard, and the assassination of the country's president could spark further political turmoil.

Today in Security: Russian Intelligence Services Conducting Global Brute Force Campaign, UK and U.S. Agencies Warn

Fri, 02 Jul 2021 12:33:12 -0400

Russian intelligence services are engaging in a global brute force campaign to penetrate government and private sector networks. The campaign began in mid-2019 and is ongoing, according to a joint cybersecurity advisory issued Thursday.

Today in Security: UN Report Calls for Greater Support of Human Rights

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 11:47:28 -0400

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights released a report calling on all countries to increase efforts to end systemic racism against people of African descent everywhere, specifically pointing to problems in how law enforcement interacts with this minority.

Today in Security: Watchdog Finds U.S. Government Agencies in the Dark about Facial Recognition Use

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 12:42:24 -0400

While 14 U.S. government agencies use non-federal facial recognition systems to support criminal investigations, only one agency reported awareness of which non-federal systems are used by employees.

Today in Security: Half of Knowledge Workers Expected to Work Remotely

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 10:51:40 -0400

The United States is expected to lead in remote workers by 2022, with 53 percent of the workforce logging in remotely at least part of the time, followed by 52 percent in Europe.

Today in Security: Biden Releases National Strategy for Countering Domestic Extremism

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 11:20:44 -0400

The Biden administration unveiled its national strategy to address domestic extremism on Tuesday in an ongoing effort to shift counterterrorism efforts to focus on homegrown attacks and risks.

Today in Security: Heatwave Fries Pacific Northwest

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 10:37:29 -0400

Daytime temperatures reached well into the triple digits, with 112 degrees Fahrenheit (44.4 Celsius) on Sunday in Portland, Oregon, up from the previous record of 108 F the day before. In Lytton, British Columbia, temperatures reached 116 F (46.6 C).

Today in Security: Divisiveness Spreads in Advanced Economies, and Other Stories We’re Following Into the Weekend

Fri, 25 Jun 2021 11:18:48 -0400

There is never a slow week in security. Here’s a quick rundown of some of the major stories we’re following into the weekend.

Today in Security: Biden Administration Pledges New Resources for Police to Combat Rising Homicide Rate

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 11:48:10 -0400

After decades of decline, homicide is on the rise in the United States with deaths in many cities reaching new highs.

Today in Security: Terrorists Used COVID-19 Pandemic to Spread Propaganda, Exacerbate Mistrust, Europol Finds

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 09:08:01 -0400

Terrorist organizations used the disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic to spread hate propaganda and exacerbate mistrust in public institutions, according to an annual report by Europol.

Today in Security: Faking Location Data Is Easy and Can Have Serious Consequences

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 13:58:26 -0400

Geospatial data is easy to fake. Research suggests that harnessing artificial intelligence could open entirely new pathways for misuse.

Today in Security: Japan Limits Local Fans for Tokyo Olympics

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 13:16:54 -0400

Although domestic spectators will be allowed to attend Olympic events this summer in Tokyo, Japan, there will be a limit of either 50 percent capacity or up to 10,000 spectators at the venues.

Today in Security: Manchester Bombing Inquiry Finds Serious Security Shortcomings

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 11:05:45 -0400

An independent public inquiry into the mass attack at a 2017 Ariana Grande concert in Manchester, England, concluded this week that there were “serious shortcomings” in security that enabled a suicide bomber to carry out his attack.

Today in Security: Hong Kong Police Raid Pro-Democracy Newspaper Offices

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 11:44:06 -0400

Citing violations of its national security law, including collusion with foreign powers, Hong Kong police raided a pro-democracy newspaper and arrested five of the newspaper’s leaders. These arrests mark the first time that the national security law has been used against the press.

Today in Security: Company, Former Executives Pay the Price for Investigative Overreaches

Tue, 15 Jun 2021 11:30:35 -0400

A court fined Ikea France and gave a suspended sentence to the company’s former top executive resulting from a decade-old case of intensively investigating employees, unions, and customers.

Today in Security: Weekend Gun Violence Sparks Concerns in United States

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 11:28:28 -0400

The ongoing rise in gun violence has stirred up fears that a spike in shootings could continue into the summer as coronavirus restrictions ease and social gatherings become more common.

Today in Security: From Ransomware Payments to Fake Apps Catching Crooks to, Yes, Nuns: The Week in Security News

Fri, 11 Jun 2021 11:53:48 -0400

This roundup of news from the week covers the recent ransomware payments and recoveries, right-wing extremism in police units, environmental activism, apps that cause suspicion and apps that catch criminals, pandemic updates, workplace shooting motivations, currency wars, and a nun who embezzled and gambled it away.

Today in Security: 1979 Murder Tied to Former Tennessee Governor Finally Solved

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 13:14:03 -0400

Authorities in Hamilton County, Tennessee, finally close a 42-year-old murder case, which was tied to one of the state's greatest corruption scandals and the governor's administration.

Today in Security History: From MI-8 to the Black Chamber

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 06:00:10 -0400

On 10 June 1917, the first U.S. signals intelligence agency was formed and dubbed MI-8. Their mission: to decode military communications and create codes for the U.S. military to use.

Today in Security: Prevention Fatigue Exacerbates COVID-19 Spike in Taiwan

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 10:05:23 -0400

After widely praised COVID-19 mitigation measures in early 2020, Taiwan began to let its guard down during the summer, allowing large crowds to return to concerts, baseball games, and religious festivals, and face masks became rarer and rarer.

Today in Security: Communication Failures Left Capitol Police Unprepared for 6 January Attack, U.S. Senate Report Finds

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 14:14:04 -0400

The Senate report found that the USCP and federal authorities, including the FBI, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Defense, and Department of Justice, failed to communicate potential threats, leaving USCP officers unprepared and lacking much-needed support during the 6 January attack on the Capitol.

Today in Security: Spending Spikes, Fraud Follows

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 11:36:44 -0400

Banking fraud attacks—including Internet, telephone, and branch-based attacks—grew 159 percent in the first quarter of 2021 compared to the end of 2020.

Today in Security: U.S. Supreme Court Narrows Focus of Computer Fraud Law

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 10:02:36 -0400

In a diverse six to three decision, the U.S. Supreme Court rejected the U.S. Department of Justice’s (DOJ’s) interpretation of a major computer fraud law in a victory for security researchers.

Today in Security: Panel Finds Police Could Have Done More to Prevent Nashville Bombing

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 13:16:17 -0400

An investigation into the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department's handling of a tip about a 2020 bombing found that the department could have done more to prevent the explosion.

Today in Security: Meat Processing Plants Regroup After Cyberattack

Wed, 02 Jun 2021 09:47:51 -0400

A cyberattack with alleged ties to international organized crime took meat processing plants offline over the weekend, complicating production across Australia, Canada, and the United States.

Today in Security: Travel Shows Signs of an Uneven Rebound

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 14:31:04 -0400

Despite a patchwork of quick-changing, country-by-country restrictions, pent-up demand shows leisure travel is poised for recovery while business travel plans continue to lag.

Today in Security: Hacking Group Behind SolarWinds Conducts Massive Phishing Campaign, Microsoft Says

Fri, 28 May 2021 12:25:15 -0400

Hackers gained access to an email marketing service account used by a U.S. State Department agency to carry out a string of attacks on other agencies, think tanks, consultants, and non-governmental organizations (NGO), Microsoft announced Thursday evening.

Today in Security: Motive Unknown for Workplace Shooting in San Jose, California

Thu, 27 May 2021 14:04:49 -0400

On Wednesday, a shooting occurred in San Jose, California, taking the lives of nine people.

Today in Security: Texas Poised to Allow People to Carry Handguns Without Licenses

Wed, 26 May 2021 09:16:51 -0400

On Monday, Texas lawmakers approved a new measure to allow people to carry handguns without a license—or the background check and training that go along with the licensing process.

Today in Security: Report Outlines DE&I Action Steps

Tue, 25 May 2021 13:23:48 -0400

For an organization to obtain the benefits of being diverse, equitable, and inclusive, it must prioritize taking meaningful actions. A new report offers guidance.

Today in Security: Flight Diverted in Effort to Arrest Opposition Journalist

Mon, 24 May 2021 11:34:01 -0400

Belarusian authorities diverted a Ryanair flight traveling from Athens, Greece, to Vilnius, Lithuania, on Sunday because of an alleged bomb onboard the airplane.

Today in Security: Israel and Hamas Agree to Cease-Fire

Fri, 21 May 2021 13:20:17 -0400

Israel and Hamas began an unconditional cease-fire early Friday morning following mounting international pressure to halt airstrikes that have killed more than 230 people in Gaza and 12 people in Israel.

Today in Security: Climate Change Made Hurricane Sandy $8B More Expensive

Thu, 20 May 2021 10:59:55 -0400

A new scientific study published in Nature Communications reveals that human-caused climate change was responsible for $8 billion of the damages resulting from Hurricane Sandy in 2012.

Today in Security: FBI Logs 1 Million Internet Crime Complaints in 14 Months

Wed, 19 May 2021 14:55:15 -0400

While it took nearly seven years for the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center tally to reach 1 million, the latest million took just 14 months—from mid-March 2020 to mid-May 2021.

Today in Security History: The Battle of Matewan

Wed, 19 May 2021 11:52:31 -0400

No one knows who fired the first shot, but when local miners, their pro-union town leaders, and a gang of private detectives met on 19 May 1920 in Matewan, West Virginia, a shootout formed the catalyst for a period of mine worker unrest and violence—later known as the West Virginia Mine Wars.

Today in Security: CISA Identifies Possible 5G Threat Vectors

Tue, 18 May 2021 13:43:22 -0400

As the world marches toward a new, faster 5G wireless future, many governments, including the United States, are concerned about the possibility of potentially catastrophic cyber consequences.

Today in Security: Eased Pandemic Restrictions May Embolden Violent Extremists, FBI Warns

Mon, 17 May 2021 11:31:19 -0400

As pandemic public capacity limits are lifted at restaurants, houses of worship, and event venues, authorities warn that these soft targets may once again become targets for violent domestic extremists.

Today in Security: Fully Vaccinated People Do Not Need to Wear Masks in Most Settings, CDC Says

Fri, 14 May 2021 12:47:33 -0400

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its guidance, saying people who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 do not need to wear masks or facial coverings in most settings.

Today in Security: Biden Signs Cybersecurity Executive Order, Creating Road Map for Federal Improvements

Thu, 13 May 2021 13:27:18 -0400

U.S. President Joe Biden signed a long-awaited cybersecurity executive order on Wednesday evening, which instructs the federal government to take a host of actions to improve the nation’s security and resiliency.

Today in Security: School Shooting in Russia Prompts Gun Control Order

Wed, 12 May 2021 10:27:10 -0400

A rare school shooting prompted Russian President Vladimir Putin to order gun controls tightened across the country.

Today in Security: Clashes Escalate as Israelis and Palestinians Exchange Fire

Tue, 11 May 2021 10:59:42 -0400

Weeks of unrest sharply escalated over the weekend as Hamas began firing rockets at Israel after issuing a deadline for Israeli police to withdraw security forces from the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, where four days of conflict had resulted in injuries and damage to the compound.

Today in Security: U.S. Pipeline Cyberattack Underscores Infrastructure Vulnerability

Mon, 10 May 2021 13:48:00 -0400

Colonial Pipeline, responsible for a major portion of the East Coast's fuel supply, shut down its pipelines over the weekend due to a ransomware attack.

Today in Security: School Shooting in Idaho by Sixth Grade Student

Fri, 07 May 2021 12:07:41 -0400

A sixth-grade girl is being held in custody after she shot two students and one staff member at her middle school in Rigby, Idaho.

Today in Security: Protests in Colombia Continue

Thu, 06 May 2021 14:49:12 -0400

Although Colombian President Ivan Duque rescinded an unpopular tax reform plan, massive protests across the country’s cities continue into a second week, with a death toll of 24 and an estimated 89 people listed as missing.

Today in Security: Temperatures Continue to Tick Upwards, NOAA Finds

Wed, 05 May 2021 11:47:24 -0400

Since the climate averages were initially calculated at the beginning of the 20th century, the United States has warmed 1.7 degrees Fahrenheit (1 degree Celsius).

Today in Security: Driver of Armored Vehicle Expertly Avoids Assailants

Tue, 04 May 2021 12:00:00 -0400

The incident late last month in South Africa was captured by a dashcam and illustrates the danger that private security personnel face.

Today in Security: Multiagency Operation Shuts Down Online Child Abuse Platform

Mon, 03 May 2021 10:16:42 -0400

German police announced today that four individuals have been arrested in a multiagency operation targeting one of Europe’s most prolific child abuse platforms on the Dark Web, called “Boystown.”

Today in Security: Taskforce Issues Recommendations to Combat Rise of Ransomware

Fri, 30 Apr 2021 12:48:35 -0400

A task force recommended a series of actions to mitigate the threat of ransomware, including requiring cryptocurrencies to adopt anti-money laundering regulatory requirements.

Today in Security: Jury Convicts Man for Social Media Posts Threatening U.S. Elected Officials

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 14:54:21 -0400

A federal jury found Brendan Hunt guilty of threatening to murder U.S. legislators, despite his insistence that the statements were made in jest.

Today in Security: U.S. Agency Partnership Zeroes In on Human Smugglers at the Border

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 12:41:31 -0400

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is launching a new operation to target transnational criminal organizations that smuggle immigrants across the southern U.S. border, often placing their victims in life-threatening situations in favor of profits.

Today in Security: Police Departments Hit by Ransomware

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 14:23:37 -0400

Data from the Washington, D.C., police department ransomware attack has leaked online, adding the Metropolitan Police to the ever-growing list of organizations compromised by hijacked data.

Today in Security: Fatal Stabbing Triggers Terrorism Investigation in France

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 11:53:41 -0400

A man fatally stabbed a police administrative worker in France on Friday in what French President Emmanuel Macron is calling a terrorist attack.

Today in Security: EU Commission Unveils Regulations for High-Risk Artificial Intelligence Technologies

Fri, 23 Apr 2021 12:43:01 -0400

The European Union released a proposed set of artificial intelligence (AI) regulations this week that would create rules for the development of high-risk uses of the technology and ban some uses outright.

Today in Security: Coronavirus Stresses Healthcare Systems, Workers Worldwide

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 13:56:23 -0400

Although campaigns across the world have succeeded in vaccinating more people against the COVID-19 virus, new cases and hospitalizations contributing to a ripple effect that hampers recovery attempts and threatens the healthcare industry at large.

Today in Security: Swift Verdict in Chauvin Case Breaks Tension Over Potential Unrest

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 11:04:32 -0400

The speedy resolution of the three-week trial—which found Chauvin guilty on three counts: second-degree murder, third-degree murder, and manslaughter—appears to have changed the emotionally charged atmosphere around the United States.

Today in Security: France Passes Controversial Law to Protect Police

Tue, 20 Apr 2021 13:50:22 -0400

France’s controversial global security law would penalize public release of images or videos of police in the line of duty and expand the police’s surveillance capabilities.

Today in Security: Half of U.S. Adults Received at Least One Vaccine Dose

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 10:24:50 -0400

About 84.3 million people have been fully vaccinated in the United States, but a new poll found that about one in five U.S. adults say they will never get a COVID-19 vaccine if they can avoid it.

Today in Security: Gunman Kills 8 in Shooting at FedEx Warehouse

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 11:55:20 -0400

A gunman opened fire at a FedEx warehouse in Indianapolis, Indiana, on Thursday night, killing eight people and injuring five others. Authorities said they believe the suspect shot himself and died at the scene.

Today in Security: U.S. Issues New Sanctions for Russia

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 13:14:37 -0400

In response to the country’s alleged misconduct linked to the SolarWinds hack and attempts to generate confusion in the United States’ election process, the Biden administration levied new sanctions on Russia.

Today in Security History: The Death of William J. Burns, American Detective

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 14:22:21 -0400

Like his predecessor Allan Pinkerton and his successor at the Bureau of Investigation, J. Edgar Hoover, William J. Burns was a master of self-promotion. He had an instinct for publicity that magnified the major cases he investigated.

Today in Security: United States to Withdraw Troops from Afghanistan by September

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 10:35:57 -0400

U.S. forces have been deployed to Afghanistan for nearly 20 years following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. There are approximately 2,500 U.S. troops in the country—part of a larger 9,600-troop NATO mission.

Today in Security: Tensions Rise in Minneapolis Region After Police Shooting

Tue, 13 Apr 2021 14:07:12 -0400

In the shadow of the ongoing trial of Derek Chauvin, accused of killing George Floyd, a Minneapolis area police officer mistook her Taser for her service weapon and shot Daunte Wright, sparking protests reminiscent of the first gatherings protesting Floyd’s death.

Today in Security: Disruption at Iranian Atomic Site Called ‘Nuclear Terrorism’

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 11:33:09 -0400

The exact nature of the incident remains unclear, but Iranian media reported a devastating cyberattack, which triggered a blackout through the electrical grid on Saturday.

Today in Security: Intelligence Council Predicts Future Tensions Exacerbated by Climate Change, Technology, and Distrust

Fri, 09 Apr 2021 12:33:35 -0400

The world will face increasing global challenges from climate change and disease, along with disruptions from new technologies and financial crises in the decades to come, according to a new report from the U.S. National Intelligence Council.

Today in Security: Biden Announces Limited Moderate Executive Actions for Greater Gun Control

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 14:18:57 -0400

On 8 April, U.S. President Joe Biden announced six moderate executive actions aimed at curbing gun violence, as well as the nomination of a gun-control advocate to lead the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

Today in Security: Pandemic Amplified Anti-Semitism Online, Report Found

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 11:35:07 -0400

While physical injuries and private property damage in anti-Semitic incidents decreased in 2020, hateful sentiment was on the rise—especially online.

Today in Security: Headaches from 2019 Facebook Data Breach Continue

Tue, 06 Apr 2021 12:34:25 -0400

The personal information—including phone numbers—of Facebook users exploited in a vulnerability originally uncovered and fixed in 2019 is now freely available.

Today in Security: Militant Attack in Mozambique Forces Thousands of Citizens to Flee

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 11:26:15 -0400

Survivors said hundreds of Islamic State-linked militants quickly overran the town, killing dozens of civilians and trapping hundreds of foreign workers and contractors—many of whom were working on a liquefied natural gas project worth billions of dollars.

Today in Security: Train Derailment in Taiwan Kills at Least 50, Injures Numerous Others

Fri, 02 Apr 2021 11:10:04 -0400

A train derailed in Taiwan early Friday morning, killing at least 50 people and injuring 150 others in one of the worst disasters in the country in decades.

Today in Security: Pro-Democracy Leaders Found Guilty in Hong Kong

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 12:14:19 -0400

Seven of Hong Kong’s democracy leaders were convicted on 1 April for their involvement in organizing and participating in 2019 anti-government protests.

Today in Security: Department of Defense Issues Training for Extremism Detection and Intervention

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 12:17:02 -0400

A DARPA training module instructs service members and civilian employees to “Be aware of symbols of far right, far left, Islamist, or single issue ideologies" and to report potential signs of extremism in colleagues.

Today in Security: On Many Fronts, News on the Pandemic is Mixed

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 13:17:35 -0400

The COVID-19 vaccines prove highly effective, while vaccination rates vary greatly and a fourth wave appears to be forming. Meanwhile effects of the year-long pandemic begin to show.

Today in Security: Myanmar Security Forces Open Fire on Funeral Crowds, Protesters

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 11:01:47 -0400

Since military forces seized control of the country on 1 February, at least 459 civilians have been killed—including 35 children.

Today in Security: The Security Challenges Around the Globe We Followed This Week

Fri, 26 Mar 2021 13:57:09 -0400

Depending on where you are in the world this week, a lot has happened—or everything is at a standstill. Here’s a special rundown of major security stories that the Security Management team has been following.

Today in Security: Australia Sees Worst Floods in 60 Years

Thu, 25 Mar 2021 13:26:33 -0400

Multiple days of torrential rain across southeastern Australia led to record-breaking flooding in the region. Roughly 40,000 people were forced to evacuate homes in areas of Queensland and New South Wales as dams spilled over and rivers overflowed.

Today in Security: Brazil Faces Higher Death Toll Amid Political Infighting and COVID Variants

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 10:27:03 -0400

Medical professionals are concerned that the unhindered spread of COVID-19 in Brazil may lead to the emergence of additional variants, which could prove more lethal and spread worldwide.

Today in Security: Mass Shooting Leaves 10 Dead in Boulder

Tue, 23 Mar 2021 11:05:54 -0400

The second mass shooting in the United States within a week highlights growing concern of the relationship between firearms violence and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Today in Security: Mass Kidnap for Ransom Attacks Continue in Nigeria

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 11:46:43 -0400

Mass kidnappings have skyrocketed in Nigeria, with victims primarily abducted from schools to pressure entire communities to pay ransoms. This new model is highly lucrative for attackers and risks devaluing each abductee's life.

Today in Security: $4.2 Billion Lost in the U.S. to Cybercrime and Fraud in 2020

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 13:23:11 -0400

Internet crime reported to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) soared in 2020, with Americans filing 791,790 complaints of suspected Internet crime—an increase of more than 300,000 complaints from 2019—with losses of more than $4.2 billion.

Today in Security: Motives For Atlanta Area Spa Shootings Remain Unconfirmed

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 13:07:55 -0400

Two days after a 21-year old man allegedly killed eight people at three spas in the Atlanta area, experts and authorities remain at odds over the motive for the shootings—which have renewed concerns over violence targeting Asians and AAPI in the United States.

Today in Security: Report Details Foreign Influence Operations Around U.S. Elections

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 13:43:30 -0400

Foreign actors did not hack or “alter any technical aspect of the voting process” in the 2020 U.S. presidential elections, but that does not mean that they were not meddling in the electoral process.

Today in Security: Pandemic Intensifies Violence, Poverty, and Inequality Borne by Women

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 12:06:56 -0400

“The pandemic has been especially hard on women and girls. This is the most discriminatory crisis we have ever experienced,” says Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka.

Today in Security: Junta Declares Martial Law in Areas of Myanmar

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 10:49:10 -0400

At least 38 people were killed and dozens injured on Sunday during a crackdown on protests and resistance in Myanmar.

Today in Security: Review Finds LAPD Failures Led to Mishandling of Summer Civil Unrest

Fri, 12 Mar 2021 12:58:44 -0500

The Los Angeles Police Department mishandled social unrest in summer 2020 following the death of George Floyd due to numerous failures and a “chaos of command,” an independent examination found.

Today in Security: A Global Endemic: One in Three Women is a Victim of Physical or Sexual Violence

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 13:55:43 -0500

More than 730 million women across the world reported being the victim of physical or sexual violence, a statistic that has remained stagnant for the past decade, a World Health Organization report finds.

Today in Security: Breach of 150,000 Surveillance Cameras Sparks Credential Concerns

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 14:54:42 -0500

Up to 150,000 security cameras installed in schools, hospitals, factories, and businesses were compromised, giving outsiders access to video from Tesla factories, prisons, psychiatric hospitals, and more.

Today in Security: Governments Around the World Contemplate Vaccine Passports

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 13:05:58 -0500

Spurred on by the desire to ensure resumption of safe travel, the development of vaccine passports presents wider possible uses and numerous complications.

Today in Security: Farmer Protests Against Deregulation in India Continue to Grow

Mon, 08 Mar 2021 12:42:16 -0500

Thousands of women joined farmers in Delhi, India, today in the latest evolution of a protest that has lasted since December.

Today in Security: Microsoft Urges Customers to Patch to Mitigate Effect of Latest 0-Day Exploits

Fri, 05 Mar 2021 13:08:27 -0500

While security professionals are continuing to address the fallout from the SolarWinds breach, Microsoft announced this week that it had detected several 0-day exploits being used to attack versions of Microsoft Exchange Server.

Today in Security:Corporate Opioid Promoters Agree to Hefty Settlement

Thu, 04 Mar 2021 16:56:23 -0500

Consulting firm McKinsey & Company settled investigations into its involvement in helping "turbocharge" opioid sales for drug manufacturers. The settlements totaled nearly $600 million.

Today in Security: Council Urges American Investment in AI for Security, Competition, and Regulation

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 11:40:01 -0500

The world is at a turning point when it comes to artificial intelligence (AI), and the United States is at risk of falling behind, according to a new report from the National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence (NSCAI).

Today in Security: Two Americans Alleged to Have Helped Embezzler Escape Extradited to Japan

Tue, 02 Mar 2021 15:11:22 -0500

Japan alleges Carlos Ghosn embezzled millions as chairman of Nissan. The two Americans who allegedly planned and executed his escape from Tokyo were sent to Japan for questioning.

Today in Security: Hong Kong Police Charge Activists with Conspiracy in National Security Law Crackdown

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 10:20:10 -0500

In the largest single crackdown so far under the newly imposed National Security Law, 47 Hong Kong pro-democracy campaigners and activists were charged on 28 February with conspiracy to commit subversion.

Today in Security: U.S. President Biden Orders National Supply Chain Security Review

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 10:54:31 -0500

U.S. President Joe Biden signed an executive order that requires U.S. agencies to review supply chain security risks and coordinate with federal partners, industry, and state and local partners to strengthen them.

Today in Security: Winter Storms Continue to Stress Aging U.S. Infrastructure

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 14:57:29 -0500

Winter storms and extremely low temperatures that took hold of parts of the United States caused not only widespread power outages, but also triggered shutdowns of other infrastructure facilities, the consequences of which are still exacting a toll on residents in the area.

Today in Security: Senate Hearings Dig into Intelligence Breakdowns in Capitol Riot

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 11:49:40 -0500

An FBI report from a Norfolk, Virginia, field office on 5 January flagged an anonymous social media threat warning of a looming war at the Capitol building. However, that report stalled once it got to the Capitol Police.

Today in Security: Summer Protests Spark Bills Aimed at Curbing Unrest

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 15:01:30 -0500

Dozens of U.S. state legislatures seek to broaden what constitutes riots or unlawful assemblies, impose stiffer penalties for disturbances, and, in some cases, protect those who harm protesters.

Today in Security: Despite Military Threats, Protests Grow in Myanmar

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 14:28:12 -0500

Weeks of protests continue in Myanmar after a military coup on 1 February. Now, hundreds of thousands of protesters turned out across the country to join a general strike, closing businesses and putting economic pressure on the military, which has warned protesters that they risk their lives by demonstrating.

Today in Security: CISA Announces Global Strategy To Address Critical Infrastructure Threats

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 12:30:39 -0500

CISA released its first international strategy on Thursday in a commitment to work with international partners to address risks and threats to critical infrastructure.

Today in Security: N95 Shortages, Stockpiles, and Shams

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 13:01:14 -0500

The United States is again facing a shortage of authentic medical grade masks for hospitals, while fraudulent masks seep into the market and U.S. producers deal with lingering stockpiles.

Today in Security:French National Assembly Passes Anti-Separatist Legislation

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 10:32:09 -0500

France’s National Assembly approved a bill Tuesday to address Islamist extremism and separatism in response to a wave of attacks—including the murder of a teacher in 2020.

Today in Security: Unusual Weather Pattern Creates Emergencies

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 12:24:14 -0500

From unsafe travel to vaccine delays to energy production disruption, frigid temperatures and winter weather wreak havoc across much of the United States.

Today in Security: Militia Group Members Charged with Conspiracy for U.S. Capitol Attack

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 16:05:43 -0500

A militia group discussed a plan to bring weapons to the siege of the U.S. Capitol on 6 January, according to court documents unsealed earlier this week that show the role militia groups may have played in planning the attack.

Today in Security: Canadian Intelligence Director Brands China a Threat

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 14:43:27 -0500

The Canadian Security Intelligence Service labeled China a serious danger to Canada's national security and economy.

Today in Security: NYC Council Unveils Legislation Package for Police Accountability

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 10:55:07 -0500

In the latest move to restructure police accountability, the New York City Council announced a slate of legislation aimed at reshaping the NYPD’s approach to discipline, mental health emergencies, and school security.

Today in Security: Cyber Attack on Florida Water Supply Thwarted

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 14:05:11 -0500

The attack on an Oldsmar, Florida, water utility was unsuccessful; however, it chillingly spotlights a potential vulnerability to critical infrastructure in the United States.

Today in Security: Mass Protests Continue in Myanmar After Coup

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 12:19:16 -0500

Huge protests were held in Myanmar for the third straight day—as well as a nationwide strike—to oppose the military coup that overthrew the landslide election of democratic leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

Today in Security: Prepping for Super Bowl Sunday During a Pandemic

Fri, 05 Feb 2021 12:58:21 -0500

Super Bowl Sunday in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic will look drastically different in Tampa Bay, Florida, as authorities look to balance the fan experience with coronavirus mitigation measures.

Today in Security: Climate Change Expected to Amplify Security Risks in South Asia

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 13:09:13 -0500

Two new reports from the Center for Climate and Security's International Military Council on Climate and Security warn of how climate changes are a threat multiplier to stability and security in South and Southeast Asia.

Today in Security: OSHA Issues New Guidance on COVID-19 Prevention Programs

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 09:58:11 -0500

The guidance—while it creates no new legal obligations—provides employers with clear steps to recognize and address COVID-19 hazards while empowering employees to speak up.

Today in Security: U.S. Hate Groups Declined in 2020, But Analysis Finds Hate Did Not

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 12:33:31 -0500

The number of hate groups in the United States declined in 2020. The volume of hate? Not so much.

Today in Security: EU Organized Crime Groups Fueling Rise in Violent Crime

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 10:33:13 -0500

Recent power shifts in organized crime are driving organized crime groups to reconsider their priorities. While violence might attract the notice of law enforcement, it can also quickly strengthen a group’s reputation, demoralize other groups, and intimidate people into compliance.

Today in Security: Global Law Enforcement Effort Takes Down EMOTET

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 08:51:57 -0500

Global law enforcement agencies came together to take down one of the most significant botnets in the world: EMOTET, responsible for distributing the EMOTET malware.

Today in Security: Michigan Governor's Would-Be Kidnapper Pleads Guilty

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 13:18:57 -0500

One of the members of a group of men allegedly plotting to kidnap Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer pled guilty to the charge of kidnapping conspiracy on 27 January.

Today in Security: Lockdown Hopelessness Spurring Student Mental Health Concerns

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 11:18:36 -0500

As schools remain largely remote, students have lost out on developmental milestones, community resources, and social opportunities, leading many to protest, skip classes, or experience mental health challenges—sometimes with devastating results.

Today in Security: The Unemployment Gold Mine: Fraudsters Steal Billions

Tue, 26 Jan 2021 13:15:51 -0500

California reports 10 percent, or $11.4 billion, of its unemployment payments has been fraudulent. While the U.S. state may be hardest hit, it is hardly alone.

Today in Security: ISIS Claims Responsibility for Baghdad Suicide Bombings

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 11:36:31 -0500

Responsibility for two suicide bombings in Baghdad, Iraq, on 21 January was claimed by ISIS in what national security experts are calling a stark reminder that the terrorist group is still active.

Today in Security History: Marguerite Harrison’s Mission to Moscow

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 08:00:21 -0500

During the last week of January 1920, Marguerite Harrison, the first female foreign intelligence agent for the United States government, crossed into Russia on her first mission.

Today in Security: Discrepancies in Security Regulations Pose Risks to Critical Infrastructure

Fri, 22 Jan 2021 12:37:52 -0500

More than 1,600 public water systems or wastewater treatments systems in the United States are exempt from regulations that would require them to implement certain security measures, posing potential risks, a watchdog report finds.

Today in Security: Biden Orders Include More Pandemic Response Efforts

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 13:10:17 -0500

U.S. President Biden signed 17 executive orders on his first day in office, several of which kick off a larger and tougher federal response to dealing with the coronavirus pandemic, as well as rejoining the World Health Organization.

Today in Security: CISA Warns of Cloud Service Attacks

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 10:19:08 -0500

The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency issued an alert this week, warning security practitioners of recent cyberattacks against organizations’ cloud services that exploited poor hygiene practices and phishing tactics.

Today in Security: FAA Issues New Policy on Unruly Passengers

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 13:15:20 -0500

On 13 January 2021, FAA administrator Steve Dickson called for stricter enforcement for dealing with unruly passengers.

Today in Security: FBI Warns of Armed Protests Across United States

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 11:39:15 -0500

Armed protests are being planned at all 50 U.S. state capitols and at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., through at least inauguration day on 20 January, according to an internal FBI bulletin.

Today in Security: U.S. Laws Address Deepfakes

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 13:59:09 -0500

The recently enacted defense authorization bill and other federal and state laws call for research and begin to codify restrictions on deepfake technology; European countries have not addressed the issue directly.

Today in Security: Billion-Dollar Disaster Record Broken in 2020

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 10:25:33 -0500

In 2020, the United States experienced 22 $1 billion weather and climate disasters. That outpaced any previous year by six disasters.

Today in Security: Beginning of 2021 Brings Major Security Challenges Around the Globe

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 10:53:48 -0500

Typically in Today in Security, we focus on one topic and provide additional analysis for our security practitioner audience. But this week has been anything but typical, so we decided to put together a rundown of stories we’ve been following throughout the week and that you might have missed.

Today in Security: Fallout from Riot at the Capitol Building

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 13:00:22 -0500

“They should have been able to deal with this, but I think it boils down to ‘Fail to plan, plan to fail,'" says Martin Herman, president and CEO of Special Response Corporation.

Today in Security, Afternoon Edition: Trump Supporters Storm Capitol Building, Breaching Security

Wed, 06 Jan 2021 15:40:04 -0500

Supporters of U.S. President Donald Trump stormed the U.S. Capitol building in an unprecedented breach of security on Wednesday afternoon during a joint session of Congress to certify the results of the November Presidential Election.

Today in Security: Pharmacist Tampers with 500 Doses of Vaccine

Wed, 06 Jan 2021 12:00:43 -0500

A Wisconsin pharmacist is accused of intentionally sabotaging 57 vials of the coronavirus vaccine last month, triggering concerns around insider threats and conspiracy theories.

Today in Security: FAA Issues Final Rules on Drone Use

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 13:08:36 -0500

Drones must broadcast identification information and meet regulations in order to fly over people.

Today in Security: Inoculation Efforts Underway Worldwide

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 10:41:36 -0500

One year after initial reports of a “mystery illness” in Wuhan, China, vaccination efforts are well underway worldwide to curb the spread of COVID-19.

Today in Security: Happy Holidays from Security Management!

Thu, 24 Dec 2020 08:00:20 -0500

The Security Management team is signing off for the holidays. Today in Security will return 4 January 2021. In the meantime, check out some of our favorite articles from 2020.

Today in Security: Operational Challenges in Asia Pose Long-Term Security Risks

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 09:48:22 -0500

In a year-end report, G4S Corporate Risk Services unveiled its risk outlooks for 19 locations across Asia, measuring likelihoods of political instability, terrorism, petty crime, natural disasters, health crises, and more from 2020 into 2021.

Today in Security: New Group to Combat Scourge of Ransomware

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 13:28:14 -0500

Launched by the Institute for Security and Technology, a group of 18 organizations formed the Ransomware Task Force.

Today in Security: New Virus Strain Triggers UK Lockdowns, Travel Bans

Mon, 21 Dec 2020 10:04:39 -0500

A new fast-spreading strain of the coronavirus has forced Britain to lockdown London and southeast England, impacting more than 16 million Britons, canceling Christmas plans, and threatening supply chains.

Today in Security: Biden Vows “Substantial Costs” for Those Responsible for SolarWinds Hack

Fri, 18 Dec 2020 13:01:07 -0500

U.S. President-Elect Joe Biden said he would impose “substantial costs” on the actors responsible for a massive cyber-espionage breach of U.S. government agencies and companies.

Today in Security: Ransomware Attacks on Industrial Companies Increased More Than 500 Percent

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 09:47:07 -0500

In a December report analyzing incidents of ransomware and extortion directed at industrial organizations, Dragos and IBM’s Security X-Force found that such attacks on these businesses have increased more than 500 percent since 2018.

Today in Security: Defense Bill Requires Surveillance Cameras for Cruise Ships

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 09:11:25 -0500

New cruise ship safety standards are on the way, as Congress included provisions in the $741 billion U.S. defense bill that impact the industry.

Today in Security: Vaccine Successes Belie Long Road Ahead

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 13:15:16 -0500

With great celebration, the United States and Canada join the United Kingdom in rolling out vaccines. But COVID-19 will continue to rage well into 2021 and beyond.

Today in Security: U.S. Agencies Warned of Widespread Cyber-Espionage Hack

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 09:58:19 -0500

U.S. government agencies are hunting for signs of compromise and malware after authorities learned that the Treasury and Commerce departments were hacked as part of a months-long cyber-espionage campaign.

Today in Security: U.S. Agencies Warn of Cyber Actors Targeting Educational Institutions

Fri, 11 Dec 2020 11:30:24 -0500

Malicious actors are targeting kindergarten through 12th grade educational institutions, disrupting distance learning, engaging in ransomware attacks, and stealing data, according to a Joint Cybersecurity Advisory released on Thursday.

Today in Security: Fort Hood Investigation Disciplines 14 High-Level Commanders

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 13:34:59 -0500

After a month-long investigation into Fort Hood, the U.S. Army either fired or suspended 14 Army officials, including several high-ranking leaders, held responsible for a culture of permitted sexual harassment, bullying, and violence.

Today in Security: New Zealand Eyes Reforms After Christchurch Attack Report

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 10:30:45 -0500

A Royal Commission report found that New Zealand’s national security agencies spent an “inappropriate” amount of time focusing on Islamist terror threats in the months leading up to the 2019 attack on two mosques in Christchurch.

Today in Security: Robot Dogs Set to Augment Air Force Base Security

Tue, 08 Dec 2020 10:48:09 -0500

U.S. Air Force demonstrates quadrupedal unmanned ground vehicles—robot dogs—to be deployed in a security function at Tyndall Air Force Base in Florida.

Today in Security: Peaceful Security Law Protests Hijacked in France

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 10:07:50 -0500

Protests escalated sharply this weekend in France as hooded anarchists and protesters threw projectiles at police, smashed shopfronts, and burned barricades and cars during a demonstration against police violence and a controversial draft security law.

Today in Security: California Announces Major New COVID-19 Prevention Measures

Fri, 04 Dec 2020 09:11:31 -0500

California Governor Gavin Newsom announced new major measures to help curb the spread of COVID-19 in the U.S. state just one week after millions of Americans traveled for the Thanksgiving holiday.

Today in Security: Cyber Thieves Scam $1 Million From Philadelphia Food Charity

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 13:36:09 -0500

Philadelphia area hunger relief organization Philabundance was the target of a cyberattack that cost the charity group almost $1 million.

Today in Security: UN Report Finds Climate Disasters, Higher Temperatures Driving Risk in 2020

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 12:42:33 -0500

A year already defined by a pandemic, political instability, civil unrest, and economic turmoil also featured another challenge: extreme weather driven by higher temperatures. By the time it ends, 2020 will go down as one of the three hottest years on record.

Today in Security: Iran Blames Israel and Internal Security Breaches on Slaying of Nuclear Scientist

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 13:21:43 -0500

The attack that killed nuclear physicist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh likely relied on a remote-controlled machine gun and compromised security.

Today in Security: Baltimore County Schools Crippled by Ransomware Attack

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 10:37:39 -0500

Approximately 115,000 students have been affected by the ransomware-triggered shutdown, and there is no clear timeline for schools to reopen.

Today in Security: IoT Cybersecurity Bill Passes U.S. Congress

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 10:51:37 -0500

If enacted, the IoT Cybersecurity Improvement Act would help consolidate security requirements and considerations for Internet of Things (IoT) devices, including secure development, identity management, patching, and configuration management.

Today in Security: Apple Security Chief, Two Officers Charged in Bribery Scheme

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 10:20:20 -0500

The charges allege a donation of 200 iPads to the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office would be exchanged for four concealed carry permits to Apple’s security team.

Today in Security: As Weather Chills, COVID-19 Infections Spike

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 11:36:30 -0500

The current upswing in COVID-19 infections is likely to be made even worse by travel, indoors gatherings, and pandemic fatigue as cold weather sets in and holiday seasons commence.

Today in Security: CISA Releases New Guidance on Insider Threat Prevention, Mitigation

Fri, 20 Nov 2020 12:03:15 -0500

The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) released new guidance this week for critical infrastructure owners and operators on preventing and detecting insider threats.

Today in Security: Court Filings Unveil Disturbing New Details in Plot Against Michigan Governor

Thu, 19 Nov 2020 13:46:34 -0500

Court proceedings shed new light on right-wing extremists' plot to kidnap and execute Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

Today in Security: U.S. Top Cybersecurity Official Fired

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 11:03:08 -0500

U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Twitter Tuesday that he decided to fire Chris Krebs, the director of CISA, which has led the way for federal cybersecurity initiatives, public–private sector information sharing and partnerships, and election security.

Today in Security: Hate Crimes Rise in United States

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 12:59:04 -0500

According to the FBI’s 2019 Hate Crime Statistics Report, the number of hate crime incidents increased slightly in the United States last year to 7,314. This represents a 2.7 percent increase from 2018 and is the most incidents since 2008.

Today in Security: COVID-19 Vaccine Progress Sparks Excitement

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 10:03:54 -0500

Drugmakers are in a rush to the finish line as two companies announced early results from COVID-19 vaccine tests so far this month.

Today in Security History: The Sentencing of Whitey Bulger

Sun, 15 Nov 2020 10:19:30 -0500

On 14 November 2013, the day had finally arrived when James “Whitey” Bulger—the infamous son of South Boston’s Irish projects—would learn his fate.

Today in Security: U.S. Capital Prepares for Pro-Trump Protests, Potential Unrest

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 09:22:06 -0500

Washington, D.C., authorities are preparing for the possibility of violence on Saturday as far-right protesters plan to gather in the American capital in a show of support for U.S. President Donald Trump’s refusal to concede the election.

Today in Security: Beheadings in Mozambique Highlight Growing Conflict

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 13:39:49 -0500

Militant Islamists beheaded more than 50 villagers in northern Mozambique.

Today in Security: Pandemic Lessons Learned: Supply Chain Resilience

Tue, 10 Nov 2020 12:09:21 -0500

The pandemic highlighted several supply chain-related vulnerabilities, giving organizations a chance to reassess how they manage their suppliers.

Today in Security: Hurricane Eta Carves Destructive Path in Central America, Cuba, Gulf Coast

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 10:32:55 -0500

Tropical Storm Eta—the 28th named storm in this year’s hurricane season—made landfall in the Florida Keys on Sunday night, with wind speeds up to 65 miles per hour and heavy rains.

Today in Security: As Vote Tallies Are Finalized, Election Misinformation Spreads

Fri, 06 Nov 2020 13:04:43 -0500

Philadelphia police officers arrested two heavily armed men on Thursday night who allegedly travelled to the city to disrupt the counting of ballots at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

Today in Security: New U.S. Coronavirus Cases Climb to 100,000 Per Day

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 13:59:48 -0500

Coronavirus cases are on the rise, with 3 November marking the first time the United States surpassed 100,000 new confirmed COVID-19 cases in a single day.

Today in Security: Terrorists Ramping Up Recruitment and Propaganda Efforts

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 09:36:18 -0500

The Islamic State’s so-called caliphate may be dismantled, but the terror group’s activities continue. On 28 October, Europol and the Spanish National Police arrested three suspects linked to a terrorist cell actively recruiting and indoctrinating young people.

Today in Security: Terror Attacks Ring Out on Monday

Tue, 03 Nov 2020 10:44:23 -0500

Separate attacks undertaken in the name of Islamic extremism kill four in Austria and 22 in Afghanistan.

Today in Security: Facing COVID-19 Surge, England to Reenter Lockdown

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 08:56:06 -0500

England is reentering national lockdown this week as coronavirus cases surge, threatening to overload the National Health Service (NHS).

Today in Security: Extremist Attacks Continue in France

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 13:34:03 -0400

A church attack that killed three on Thursday is the third act of terrorism from Islamic extremists in France in the past two months.

Today in Security: U.S. Agencies Issue Warnings as Ransomware Hits Healthcare Institutions

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 11:25:35 -0400

Cybercriminals are using Ryuk ransomware to infect hospitals and healthcare institutions across the United States for financial gain, according to an advisory released Wednesday evening by U.S. federal authorities.

Today in Security: Facebook Bans New Political Ads

Wed, 28 Oct 2020 12:10:41 -0400

Facebook banned new political ads for the week leading up to the 3 November 2020 U.S. elections.

Today in Security: Preparing for Post-Election Civil Unrest

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 10:54:25 -0400

The head of security for MUFG Union Bank, N.A., discusses the potential for unrest and how banking and financial institutions should prepare.

Today in Security: Spain Initiates a Curfew as COVID-19 Cases Rise

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 12:04:43 -0400

Spanish leaders declared a state of emergency and issued a nationwide curfew in an attempt to slow the spread of the coronavirus.

Today in Security: Goldman Sachs To Pay Record Fine to Resolve Bribery Investigation

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 13:38:50 -0400

Goldman Sachs Group Inc. will pay $2.9 billion as part of a coordinated resolution with criminal and civil authorities in the United States, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and elsewhere over bribes it paid to Malaysian and Abu Dhabi officials to secure business deals.

Today in Security: Deepfake Bot Creates Pornographic Images of Thousands of Women

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 12:53:22 -0400

An artificial intelligence enabled bot created deepfake nude images of more than 100,000 women, some of whom seem to be underage, according to a new report from intelligence firm Sensity.

Today in Security: Police Brutality Protests Escalate in Nigeria

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 10:25:51 -0400

Violence escalated sharply yesterday in Nigeria after protesters were reportedly shot by members of the Nigerian army in Lekki, a suburb of Lagos. Witnesses told the BBC that 12 people had been killed.

Today in Security: U.S. Charges Russian Hackers for Most Destructive Cyberattack in History

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 13:09:06 -0400

Six Russian intelligence hackers were charged with the NotPetya attack, as well as several other cyber crimes involving the 2017 French election and the 2018 Olympics.

Today in Security: Teacher’s Murder Sparks Protests and Radicalization Investigations

Mon, 19 Oct 2020 11:50:03 -0400

Samuel Paty, a history teacher from a Paris suburb, was killed 16 October while he walked home from school. The alleged 18-year-old assailant attacked Paty with a knife and then beheaded him.

Today in Security: Crisis Group Highlights Risk of Electoral Violence in the United States

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 14:12:44 -0400

At the beginning of October, the International Crisis Group announced that for the first time in its history it would begin to focus on the risk of electoral violence in the United States.

Today in Security: Princeton University Pays Female Professors $1.2 Million for Wage Gap

Thu, 15 Oct 2020 13:43:53 -0400

Princeton University agreed to pay $1.2 million to its female professors, settling a U.S. Department of Labor review into a gender-based wage gap at the school.

Today in Security: U.S. COVID-19 Death Rates Outstrip Other Countries

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 10:40:54 -0400

Overall, deaths in the United States are more than 85 percent higher than in other countries, including Germany and Denmark, and 29 percent higher than in Sweden, which attracted widespread concern for refusing to order social restrictions or lockdowns in response to the pandemic.

Today in Security: Food Tampering Cases Illustrate Classic Insider Threat Risks

Tue, 13 Oct 2020 12:26:23 -0400

Recent incidents in the United Kingdom and the United States underscore the need for food safety vigilance.

Today in Security: FBI Thwarts Plot to Kidnap Michigan Governor

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 11:45:21 -0400

Authorities arrested 13 men for their alleged role in a conspiracy to kidnap Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer from her vacation home before the November 2020 election.

Today in Security History: The Molly Maguires

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 07:00:11 -0400

Throughout the 1860s and 70s, Pennsylvania and West Virginia coalmines were terrorized by a series of violent assaults, arsons, and murders, blamed on a secret society of Irish immigrants called the Molly Maguires.

Today in Security: ISIS Militants Charged with Murder of American Hostages

Thu, 08 Oct 2020 12:21:38 -0400

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) charged Alexanda Amon Kotey and El Shafee Elsheikh with the deaths of four Americans who were held hostage in Syria.

Today in Security: Facebook Bans QAnon Groups and Pages

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 10:41:44 -0400

The ban marks a sharp escalation in Facebook’s battle to curb the movement and its conspiracy theories—which have been identified as a potential domestic terror threat by the FBI.

Today in Security: Payment Problems: Report Documents Struggle to Protect Card Data

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 12:51:44 -0400

Measuring against the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard, just over a quarter of companies achieve compliance, marking a third straight year of decline.

Today in Security History: The First American Train Robbery

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 08:09:46 -0400

On 6 October 1866, brothers John and Simeon Reno staged what is generally believed to be the first train robbery in American history. Their take was $13,000 from an Ohio and Mississippi railroad train in Jackson County, Indiana.

Today in Security: Countries Battle Spikes in COVID-19

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 09:50:28 -0400

Many countries felt like they had a solid grasp of how to weather the COVID-19 pandemic after the initial wave of cases, but recent spikes and high-profile infections worldwide are forcing world leaders to change advice and approaches.

Today in Security: Agencies Kick Off Cybersecurity Awareness Month

Fri, 02 Oct 2020 08:47:22 -0400

The year 2020 may permanently shift the way individuals use the Internet. Cybersecurity Awareness Month aims to help people—and security practitioners—take control of their cybersecurity to enhance their overall security posture.

Today in Security History: A Bombing in Ink Alley

Fri, 02 Oct 2020 08:40:04 -0400

In 1910, dynamite planted outside the Los Angeles Times building sparked a natural gas explosion that killed 21, injured scores, and set the U.S. labor union movement back years.

Today in Security: Malaysian Palm Oil Producer Accused of Slave Labor

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 12:49:27 -0400

The United States blocked another Malaysian company from importing goods after an investigation discovered the use of forced labor.

Today in Security: Violent Crime Decreased in 2019, FBI Reports

Wed, 30 Sep 2020 10:48:22 -0400

The violent crime rate in 2019 dropped by 1 percent in the United States, but the summer of 2020 saw a resurgence of murders and aggravated assaults in major cities nationwide.

Today in Security: A Look at the Cyber Criminal Marketplace

Tue, 29 Sep 2020 14:42:00 -0400

The dark web houses the equivalent of a cyber criminal candy store, and it remains open for business through the global COVID-19 pandemic. Cybersecurity firm Armor just released its annual examination of trends in the seedy underbelly of the Internet, finding that prices remain largely steady or have fallen slightly for some products while the offerings continue to evolve.

Today in Security: 2020 Suicide Rates in Military Branches on the Rise

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 10:53:36 -0400

COVID-19, isolation, longer deployments, civil unrest, and natural disasters are exacerbating the existing challenge of military suicides. Leaders are reprioritizing mental health and wellness and searching for methods to connect, while socially distant.

Empowering Employees to be the First Line of Defense

Thu, 24 Sep 2020 16:37:13 -0400

Keren Elazari shares how security professionals can learn from hackers to help empower their employees to promote organizational security.

Artwork as Security Enhancement

Thu, 24 Sep 2020 16:08:34 -0400

GSX+ session describes the many ways public art displays can augment an organization’s crime prevention through environmental design strategy.

Do Your Job: What Zombies Can Teach Us About Crisis Response

Thu, 24 Sep 2020 16:06:12 -0400

Senior fellow at the Modern War Institute and bestselling author Max Brooks offers insights into U.S. national security holes and how to begin turning things around.

Hackers and the Future of Cybersecurity

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 16:58:18 -0400

Security analyst and researcher Keren Elazari will walk GSX+ attendees through the world of cybersecurity from a hacker’s point of view on Thursday, 24 September.

McChrystal: Focus on Empowering Frontline Decision-Makers

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 16:57:37 -0400

When confronted with a decentralized foe, General Stanley McChrystal had to shift his focus and operational hierarchies within the Joint Special Operations Command. The same principles apply to empowering organizations in a crisis today.

Masterful Manipulation: Deepfakes and Social Engineering

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 16:39:03 -0400

The increasing ease and availability of media manipulation and deepfake production is opening up new avenues of attack for fraudsters, market manipulators, and malicious actors.

Remote Leadership Lessons from the Battlefield

Tue, 22 Sep 2020 15:28:18 -0400

General Stanley McChrystal (Ret) led U.S. military counterterrorism efforts in Afghanistan, commanding more than 150,000 troops. Now, he will share crisis leadership lessons learned with security professionals at GSX+.

A Security Transformation

Tue, 22 Sep 2020 15:23:49 -0400

A trio of GSX+ sessions provide insight on how security can become a central, value added part of an enterprise.

Meeting Global Security Challenges in a Post-COVID World

Tue, 22 Sep 2020 16:12:23 -0400

Security advisor and prolific author Alain Bauer offers his insights on post-pandemic lessons in a GSX+ Game Changer session.

GSX+ Focuses on Security’s Role in Addressing Future Threats

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 16:21:49 -0400

On Tuesday, education sessions at GSX+ will center around the theme of “Facing the Future: What’s Beyond the Horizon?” as security professionals pivot to support their organizations through the coronavirus pandemic and beyond.

The Cyber Threat Landscape Becomes More Complex

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 16:14:40 -0400

Sophisticated tools and techniques for doing damage through cyberattacks are becoming easily accessible, meaning the resulting threat is growing.

Godfried Hendriks, CPP: Forging Community During Crisis

Fri, 18 Sep 2020 15:42:27 -0400

ASIS International President Godfried Hendriks, CPP, has never been prouder to be an ASIS member. Learn how he has witnessed the value of community within the security industry this year and how he plans to experience GSX+.

From Conflict to Peace: Former Colombian President to Address GSX+

Fri, 18 Sep 2020 15:41:37 -0400

Juan Manuel Santos, former president of Colombia, will share in his GSX+ keynote how leading with hope can build bridges to resolve major security conflicts.

Today in Security History: Breaking the Purple Cipher

Sun, 20 Sep 2020 06:00:10 -0400

On 20 September 1940, a mathematician and former railway annuity statistician named Genevieve Grotjan broke the codes used by Japanese diplomats by noting patterns, repetitions, and cycles used in intercepted encrypted transmissions.

Today in Security: Drug Companies Release Blueprints for Coronavirus Vaccine Trials

Fri, 18 Sep 2020 09:03:48 -0400

In an unprecedented show of transparency, two companies revealed their blueprints for their coronavirus vaccine trials in an effort to garner public trust.

Today in Security: House Committee Releases Report on Boeing's 737 MAX

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 14:08:34 -0400

The U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee determined that the two Boeing 737 Max plane crashes were the “horrific” result of flawed technical assumptions, “a lack of transparency” from the company’s leadership, and insufficient oversight by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Today in Security History: The Wall Street Bombing

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 15:33:34 -0400

On 16 September 1920, a wagon laden with dynamite and shrapnel blew up at the corner of Wall and Broad streets in New York City—the heart of the financial center.

Today in Security: Hurricane Sally Threatens Catastrophic Flooding in Gulf Coast

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 10:26:29 -0400

Hurricane Sally has made landfall and is crawling along the northeast at less than 5 miles per hour, dumping up to 30 inches of rain in certain places on its way.

Today in Security: Is Implicit Bias Training in Law Enforcement Successful?

Tue, 15 Sep 2020 15:01:46 -0400

New research indicates training improves knowledge and awareness, but may not have much affect on police incidents involving minorities.

Today in Security History: The Valhalla and Arming the IRA

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 16:43:46 -0400

As the fishing boat Valhalla set sail out of Boston in 1984, it carried tons of weapons, ammunition, and explosives bound for Northern Ireland.

Today in Security: Wildfires Blaze Across 12 U.S. States

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 11:10:58 -0400

At least 35 people have died in a series of 94 wildfires raging along the West Coast of the United States.

Today in Security: Portland Bans Private Use of Facial Recognition Technology

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 11:12:44 -0400

City council members in Portland, Oregon, voted unanimously to enact the strictest ban on facial recognition technology in the United States.

Today in Security History: The Christiana Riot

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 16:39:28 -0400

The Christiana Riot of 1851 pitted abolitionists and African Americans against a posse of slave hunters, further polarizing the national debate over slavery and the role of security forces.

Today in Security: Former Gynecologist Charged with Sexually Abusing Patients

Thu, 10 Sep 2020 13:01:40 -0400

Robert Hadden was arrested on 9 September 2020 on charges that he sexually abused dozens of his patients, including a minor, for almost 20 years.

Today in Security: Ransomware Attack Derails School Opening

Wed, 09 Sep 2020 10:27:56 -0400

One of the largest public school systems in Connecticut was forced to delay its first day of classes after a ransomware attack affected 200 of the city’s 300 servers.

Today in Security: Purported Boogaloo Bois Charged with Supporting Foreign Terrorist

Tue, 08 Sep 2020 14:03:42 -0400

U.S. Department of Justice releases affidavit and charges against Michael Solomon and Benjamin Ryan, who are reportedly affiliated with the Boogaloo movement and tried to sell silencers and other equipment to what they thought were Hamas leaders.

Today in Security: OMB Instructs U.S. Agencies To Implement VDPs

Fri, 04 Sep 2020 12:13:53 -0400

The U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) released a memo that instructs U.S. federal agencies to create and publish coordinated vulnerability disclosure program (VDP) policies.

Today in Security: Twitter and Facebook Move Against Disinformation Tactics

Thu, 03 Sep 2020 12:11:54 -0400

Facebook and Twitter reported that the FBI warned them that Russia is again targeting Americans with disinformation, attempting to influence the 2020 U.S. presidential election.

Today in Security: Chinese Military Ramping Up Nuclear and Missile Forces

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 09:48:54 -0400

The DOD report found that China is mobilizing large forces to rival the Pentagon’s, concluding that China’s military had eclipsed the U.S. military in three key areas: shipbuilding, air defenses, and land-based missiles.

Today in Security: Preparations Ineffective as COVID-19 Cases Spike on Campus

Tue, 01 Sep 2020 13:00:17 -0400

Restarting in-person education during a pandemic is proving difficult as college campuses become virus hotspots across the United States; meanwhile Chinese universities institute extensive control policies with Europe up next.

Today in Security: Alleged Accomplices in Paris Attacks Head to Trial

Mon, 31 Aug 2020 10:05:38 -0400

Five years after French Islamist militants attacked the offices of satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo and a kosher supermarket in Paris, 14 suspected accomplices to the gunmen will go on trial this week.

Today in Security: Report Details Threat of Connections Between White Supremacist Groups and Law Enforcement

Fri, 28 Aug 2020 12:48:50 -0400

On the eve of a major march in the U.S. capital against police violence and systemic racism, the Brennan Center for Justice published a startling report about the connections between white supremacist groups and police officers in the United States and the threat they pose.

Today in Security: New Zealand Terrorist Receives Historic Life Sentence

Thu, 27 Aug 2020 11:59:12 -0400

Mass murderer and white supremacist Brenton Tarrant was sentenced to life in prison with no chance of parole for killing 51 people and injuring dozens more when he shot at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Today in Security: CDC Issues Guidance for Retailers Facing Anti-Mask Confrontations

Wed, 26 Aug 2020 13:30:33 -0400

In response to the growing threat of violent reactions to retail workers’ requests for customers to follow pandemic rules, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released guidance for retail employees and businesses on how to mitigate their workplace violence risk while preventing the spread of COVID-19.

Today in Security: With 5G Power Comes Heightened Threat Risk

Tue, 25 Aug 2020 13:23:34 -0400

CISA released a 5G strategy report, which outlines the U.S. approach to mitigating the risks associated with the rise of 5G wireless technology.

Today in Security: Snapback Sanctions Heighten Tensions Over Iran

Mon, 24 Aug 2020 10:20:16 -0400

Despite widespread UN opposition to restoring sanctions, the United States declared a 30-day countdown is on for a snapback of penalties against Iran for allegedly violating a 2015 nuclear agreement.

Today in Security: Former Uber CSO Charged with Covering Up Data Breach

Fri, 21 Aug 2020 11:33:12 -0400

U.S. prosecutors charged the former chief security officer of Uber for his alleged role in an attempted cover up of a data breach of the company in 2016.

Today in Security: Belarus Opens Criminal Probe into Opposition Group

Thu, 20 Aug 2020 13:30:58 -0400

After more than 10 days of mass protests rejecting President Alexander Lukashenko’s recent re-election, the Belarus chief prosecutor opened an investigation on 20 August into a lead opposition group. Belarusian prosecutors claim the group is attempting to illegally seize power.

Today in Security: Border Closures and Curfew in Effect After Coup in Mali

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 10:36:05 -0400

Mali’s President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta has resigned and dissolved the government and parliament after mutinying soldiers detained him and multiple other officials on Tuesday.

Today in Security: Legal Implications of Detecting and Mitigating Security Threats from Drones

Tue, 18 Aug 2020 11:50:47 -0400

Four U.S. government agencies issued a guidance document designed to help public and private entities navigate the legal space of detecting and mitigating security threats posed by drones.

Today in Security: Storms Worsen Wildfires Across California

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 10:36:31 -0400

Lightning from a rare summer thunderstorm sparked several new small blazes in northern California and stoked a huge blaze that threatens more than 4,500 buildings in the area around the Angeles National Forest.

Today in Security: Top DHS Officials Not Legally Eligible To Serve In Current Roles

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 11:32:35 -0400

A U.S. government watchdog found that the appointment of the lead officials at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security violated federal law.

Today in Security: U.S. Death Toll from COVID-19 Reaches Record High

Thu, 13 Aug 2020 12:25:01 -0400

Death tolls from COVID-19 in the United States have reached a record high since mid-May, according to new data.

Today in Security: COVID-19 Poses Long-Term Employment Impact for Young Adults, ILO Warns

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 10:17:52 -0400

Thirteen percent of young adults saw their education and training come to a complete stop since the pandemic began. The “scarring effects” from these gaps may haunt young adults throughout their working lives.

Today in Security: 'School Safety' Has a New Meaning

Tue, 11 Aug 2020 13:23:30 -0400

Local leaders and school administrators struggle to understand how to best keep students and staff safe as the COVID-19 pandemic continues.

Today in Security: Lebanon Facing Furious Protests After Explosion

Mon, 10 Aug 2020 09:53:40 -0400

After a massive explosion left at least 158 people dead and devastated broad swaths of Beirut, protesters are up in arms over what they say have been years of government ineptitude and corruption.

Today in Security: Trump Restricts WeChat and TikTok, Escalating Tensions with China

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 11:33:39 -0400

U.S. President Donald Trump issued executive orders late Thursday night that bar transactions by U.S. persons or that involve property subject to U.S. jurisdiction with the parent companies of WeChat and TikTok.

Today in Security: Turkish Protests Against Domestic Violence

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 13:27:44 -0400

Turkish women demonstrated against the ruling party's announcement that it is considering leaving a key European rights treaty on gender-based violence.

Today in Security: 300 Prisoners at Large After Afghan Jail Siege

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 10:51:08 -0400

A July United Nations report estimated there are around 2,200 Islamic State fighters still in Afghanistan, and while the group has lost territory and leaders, it remains capable of carrying out high-profile attacks.

Today in Security: Hurricane Isaias Slams East Coast

Tue, 04 Aug 2020 11:08:55 -0400

Hurricane Isaias hit North Carolina overnight and barrels up the Mid-Atlantic with tropical force winds, storm surge, heavy rains, and tornadoes.

Today in Security: Thousands Protest Pandemic Restrictions in Berlin

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 11:01:39 -0400

Despite upticks in new infections, thousands of people gathered in Germany over the weekend to mark what organizers called “the end of the pandemic” with largely maskless marchers traversing downtown Berlin.

Today in Security: EU Issues First Sanctions for Cyberattacks

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 12:30:23 -0400

The European Union issued its first sanctions for cyberattacks on Thursday against Chinese, North Korean, and Russian groups linked to recent major hacking incidents.

Today in Security: Hunger and Food Insecurity Rising Sharply Worldwide

Thu, 30 Jul 2020 12:31:52 -0400

People in 25 countries worldwide are facing devastating levels of hunger in the coming months due to fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a United Nations and World Food Programme analysis.

Today in Security: Global Summertime Surge of COVID-19

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 13:13:43 -0400

Countries around the world are seeing a resurgence in new coronavirus cases, with some reimposing restrictions and quarantines in response.

Today in Security: Mysterious Seed Packages Mailed to Addresses Across the U.S.

Tue, 28 Jul 2020 11:28:39 -0400

Many state agricultural departments issue warnings about the unsolicited seed packages. The intent behind the packages is not yet known.

Today in Security: Guerrilla Fighters Enforce COVID-19 Restrictions in Colombia

Mon, 27 Jul 2020 12:17:22 -0400

Armed groups in Colombia are taking advantage of pandemic-related curfews to impose new levels of control throughout the region, violently enforcing some of the world’s strictest lockdown measures.

Today in Security: EU-U.S. Data Sharing Agreements in Question

Fri, 24 Jul 2020 12:47:32 -0400

The Court of Justice of the European Union struck down a major data sharing agreement between the United States and the European Union, but confusion remains about what measures corporations can use to share data across the Atlantic.

Today in Security: Trump Orders More Federal Agents into Cities

Thu, 23 Jul 2020 14:23:37 -0400

U.S. President Donald Trump and the Department of Justice announced on Wednesday that federal law enforcement agents will be sent to more cities, including Chicago and Albuquerque. The cities' leaders are at least skeptical, if not flat-out opposed, to the decision.

Today in Security: Following Hacking Indictment, U.S. Orders Chinese Consulate Closed

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 10:30:21 -0400

The United States has ordered China to close its Houston, Texas, diplomatic consulate within 72 hours—a move made in response to alleged violations of American sovereignty and “massive illegal spying and influence operations” from China, including intellectual property theft.

Today in Security: Federal Tactics Questioned in Portland; Trump Vows Expansion to Other Cities

Tue, 21 Jul 2020 13:14:40 -0400

Videos depict federal officer actions that draw criticism from Portland leaders. Meanwhile, the administration plans to use federal force in Chicago and other cities.

Today in Security: Monsoon Season Displaces Millions Across India, Nepal, and Bangladesh

Mon, 20 Jul 2020 10:35:26 -0400

Floodwaters have washed away more than 10,000 homes across the state of Assam, and 300 relief camps have been established.

Today in Security: Some Nations Show Signs of Success Stopping COVID-19 Spread

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 12:43:03 -0400

While coronavirus cases continue to grow at a rapid rate in some regions, other parts of the world are having far greater success in controlling the spread of the virus.

Today in Security: Twitter Breach Targets High Profile Accounts

Thu, 16 Jul 2020 15:16:17 -0400

Several accounts of high profile Americans were taken over on 15 July, directing followers of billionaires and politicians to send cryptocurrency to a Bitcoin wallet.

Today in Security: Governments, Retailers Turn to Face Covering Rules for COVID-19 Containment

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 10:49:44 -0400

Britain and France moved to make face coverings compulsory on more places in an effort to stem the spread of the coronavirus.

Today in Security: Companies Adopting Artificial Intelligence Are Concerned About the Risks

Tue, 14 Jul 2020 11:36:07 -0400

A new study from Deloitte gives overview of the state of AI adoption and highlights risk and ethical concerns companies face.

Today in Security: South Africa Resumes Alcohol Sales Ban as COVID-19 Cases Spike

Mon, 13 Jul 2020 10:07:54 -0400

South Africa is resuming a ban on the sale of alcohol in the hopes of reducing the volume of trauma patients in local hospitals, which are already overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients.

Today in Security: U.S. Secret Service Forms Single Cyber Fraud Task Force

Fri, 10 Jul 2020 12:43:25 -0400

The U.S. Secret Service merged its Electronic Crimes Task Forces (ECTFs) and Financial Crimes Task Forces (FCTFS) into a single network known as the Cyber Fraud Task Force (CFTF).

Today in Security: U.S. Supreme Court Allows Religious Employers to Deny Birth Control Coverage Under ACA

Thu, 09 Jul 2020 13:26:00 -0400

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the Trump administration can let employers with sincere religious objections deny their employees free birth control under Obamacare.

Today in Security: Pandemic Changes Hit Workplace Culture

Wed, 08 Jul 2020 09:55:10 -0400

Just as workplaces have changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic—with more employees working remotely and increasingly stringent hygiene measures in facilities—workplace culture has also evolved.

Today in Security: Murder in U.S. Increases While Other Violent Crime Declines

Tue, 07 Jul 2020 12:41:27 -0400

The unusual circumstances of 2020 has created a murderous environment as cities report increased homicides compared to last year.

Today in Security: Law Enforcement Cracks Communications System, Cracks Down on Crime

Mon, 06 Jul 2020 10:32:43 -0400

A joint task force of European investigators cracked the EncroChat encrypted messaging platform, unlocking a gold mine of leads on criminal activities and plots.

Today in Security: COVID-19 Scams Keep Evolving

Thu, 02 Jul 2020 10:33:49 -0400

The race to exploit COVID-19 fears for profit continues as fraudsters are rapidly evolving their methods—now posing as COVID-19 contact tracers to steal personal information.

Today in Security: Hong Kong Security Law Now Effective

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 11:50:27 -0400

Hong Kong’s new national security law gives Beijing broad and ambiguous powers to deal with several political offenses with harsh sentences, including life in prison for some crimes.

Today in Security: Terrorists Attack Pakistan’s Stock Exchange

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 10:16:14 -0400

The separatists killed two security guards and one law enforcement officer before being shot and killed themselves outside the stock exchange building in Karachi.

Today in Security: $568 Million Carding Site Operator Pleads Guilty

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 10:48:39 -0400

Over seven years, Infraud Organization “inflicted approximately $2.2 billion in intended losses, and more than $568 million in actual losses, on a wide swath of financial institutions, merchants, and private individuals, and would have continued to do so for the foreseeable future if left unchecked,” according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

Today in Security: Symantec Alerts 31 Customers to Cyberattacks

Fri, 26 Jun 2020 11:38:07 -0400

Symantec sent a notice to its customers Thursday night, alerting them to a series of attacks against U.S. companies by threat actors attempting to deploy WastedLocker ransomware on their networks.

Today in Security: Ahmaud Arbery's Killers Indicted

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 13:44:56 -0400

The three men accused of killing Ahmaud Arbery were indicted on nine counts, including felony murder, by a Georgia grand jury.

Today in Security: Report Finds Americans Unconcerned about Rising COVID-19 Cyber Risks

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 11:31:37 -0400

Despite a 400 percent rise in COVID-19-related cyberattacks, Americans remain largely unconcerned about cyber crime, according to a new report.

Today in Security: Terror in Europe: Attacks Decline in 2019

Tue, 23 Jun 2020 13:51:43 -0400

Report from Europol shows decline in attacks and arrests, analyzes increased threat posed by right-wing extremists.

Today in Security: Brazil Registers More Than 50,000 COVID-19 Deaths

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 11:27:08 -0400

On Sunday, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported the largest one-day increase in infections worldwide, with 183,020 new cases. Out of those, 54,771 were in Brazil, and 36,617 were in the United States.

Today in Security: Demonstrations, Strikes Planned for Juneteenth Celebration

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 08:47:48 -0400

Minneapolis residents and individuals across the United States are preparing to participate in various forms of activism on Friday and throughout the weekend to mark Juneteenth.

Today in Security: PG&E Pleads Guilty to 84 Deaths

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 14:55:10 -0400

On 16 June, Pacific Gas & Electric pled guilty to 84 counts of involuntary manslaughter for its role in the 2018 Camp Fire. The plea deal means a $3.5 million fine but no jail time for executives of California's largest utility provider.

Today in Security: North Korea Escalates Border Tensions

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 11:10:52 -0400

Over the past 10 days, North Korea has announced it would sever hotlines with South Korea, demolished a joint liaison office in a border town, and threatened to abandon an inter-Korean military agreement aimed at reducing border tensions.

Today in Security: Report Says CIA Was More Focused on Cyber Offense Than Protecting Its Assets

Tue, 16 Jun 2020 12:48:26 -0400

New reporting finds CIA did not take appropriate insider threat precautions, which enabled the massive data leak to Wikileaks in 2017.

Today in Security: Record Spikes in COVID-19 Cases Give U.S. States Pause When Reopening

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 11:38:31 -0400

While the number of new cases had been leveling off or even decreasing in some areas of the United States, a combination of additional testing and eased lockdown restrictions has led to spikes in positive COVID-19 cases.

Today in Security: Health and Economic Destruction from Pandemic Continues

Fri, 12 Jun 2020 11:30:07 -0400

In case you missed it, COVID-19 is still wreaking havoc almost everywhere, and the economic outlook is dire.

Today in Security: Boko Haram Attack Leaves 81 Dead

Thu, 11 Jun 2020 11:42:38 -0400

At least 81 people were killed in an attack on a village in northeast Nigeria on the morning of 9 June.

Today in Security: Pandemic, Recession Heightens Risk of Fatal Opioid Overdoses

Wed, 10 Jun 2020 11:00:25 -0400

Safety and governmental organizations are warning about spikes in fatal opioid overdoses in connection to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Today in Security: IBM Discontinues Facial Recognition Business to Advance Racial Equality

Tue, 09 Jun 2020 12:33:09 -0400

IBM announced it will discontinue its general-purpose facial recognition business and opposes the use of the technology to conduct mass surveillance and racial profiling.

Today in Security: Protesters Warned to Get Tested for COVID-19

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 10:34:59 -0400

Widescale protests—involving large gatherings of people in close proximity, often shouting or chanting, sometimes without face coverings—has sparked health officials’ concern over the spread of COVID-19.

Today in Security: Demonstrators Worldwide Demand Police Reform

Fri, 05 Jun 2020 12:18:16 -0400

Demonstrators around the world are taking to the streets in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic to show their support for the Black Lives Matter movement and police reform in the United States.

Today in Security: Three Days into Hurricane Season, Cristobal Threatens the Gulf Coast

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 13:15:20 -0400

Tropical Storm Cristobal is the third named Atlantic storm of 2020, popping up only three days into this year's hurricane season.

Today in Security: EU Classifies COVID-19 as Mid-Level Threat to Workers as Countries Reopen

Wed, 03 Jun 2020 10:31:20 -0400

The European Union has classified the new coronavirus as a mid-level threat to workers—a move that allows EU-based employers to apply less stringent workplace security measures than if COVID-19 was listed as a high risk.

Today in Security: Trump Vows Use of Military to Suppress Violent Protests

Tue, 02 Jun 2020 14:18:28 -0400

Use of federal force without an invitation from state governors would likely require invocation of the Insurrection Act of 1807.

Today in Security: As U.S. Protests Escalate, Global Demonstrations Spread

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 10:47:35 -0400

Protests over the killing of George Floyd and other black Americans escalated sharply this weekend as curfews imposed in nearly 40 cities were largely ignored, leading to tension and clashes with law enforcement.

Today in Security: New York Allows Businesses to Deny Entry to Unmasked Individuals

Fri, 29 May 2020 13:20:29 -0400

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo signed an executive order to allow private businesses to deny people entry if they are not wearing facial coverings or masks.

Today in Security: Minneapolis Protests Turn Violent Over George Floyd Death

Thu, 28 May 2020 13:02:53 -0400

Minneapolis deals with violent protests erupting in response to the death of George Floyd.

Today in Security: COVID-19 Conspiracy Theories Meet Election Interference

Wed, 27 May 2020 10:07:18 -0400

Recent social media activity has experts concerned about the potential for disinformation to color the outcome of upcoming elections, including the 2020 presidential election in the United States.

Today in Security: China’s Actions Toward Hong Kong Cause Concern, Protests

Tue, 26 May 2020 12:01:14 -0400

China is poised to pass national security legislation in response to last year’s months-long protest in Hong Kong, potentially threatening the region’s autonomy.

Today in Security: Cyclone Amphan Hits Bangladesh and India

Thu, 21 May 2020 13:05:24 -0400

Cyclone Amphan hit the coasts of Bangladesh and India on Wednesday, taking out utilities and bridges connecting Indian islands to the mainland, and killing at least 85 people.

Today in Security: The Pandemic Crisis Produces a Stressed Workforce

Wed, 20 May 2020 08:52:45 -0400

In a unique series of videos, Sarah J. Powell discusses what organizations can do about the fear and stress the COVID-19 pandemic can cause in an organization.

Today in Security: FBI Uncovers Link Between al Qaeda and Naval Station Shooter

Tue, 19 May 2020 11:02:41 -0400

The FBI uncovered a connection between al Qaeda and a Royal Saudi Air Force member who killed three people and injured eight at the Pensacola Naval Air Station in Florida on 6 December.

Today in Security: Japan and Germany Already Sinking into Recession

Mon, 18 May 2020 08:17:57 -0400

Security directors need to be prepared for a worldwide economic condition that is bleak and unpredictable.

Today in Security: Unrest Over Coronavirus Response Spreads

Fri, 15 May 2020 11:42:37 -0400

Civil unrest and defiance of stay home orders are spreading in the United States as the response to the coronavirus becomes increasingly politicized across the nation.

Today in Security: Kabul Hospital Attack Leaves New Mothers, Newborns, Staff Dead

Thu, 14 May 2020 12:35:24 -0400

Gunmen tore through a hospital in Kabul on 12 May, killing mothers, babies, hospital staff, and a police officer. No one has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Today in Security: Security Concerns Raised About Possible Online Voting

Wed, 13 May 2020 14:46:18 -0400

The COVID-19 pandemic has spurred more discussion about the possibility of online voting, but some security experts and officials are voicing security concerns about the risks.

Today in Security: During a Crisis, It’s All About the People

Tue, 12 May 2020 14:16:16 -0400

To bring order to chaos in the immediate aftermath of a crisis, put the focus where it is need most: the staff and people affected.

Today in Security: Security Officers at Higher Risk of Death from COVID-19, Statistics Find

Mon, 11 May 2020 09:56:42 -0400

Male security guards working in the United Kingdom are at significant risk of dying from COVID-19, according to the U.K. Office for National Statistics (ONS).

Today in Security: Europe and United States Ease COVID-19 Shutdown Measures

Fri, 08 May 2020 12:18:37 -0400

Western nations are easing some coronavirus-related shutdown measures, allowing certain businesses to reopen. But public health experts say the reopenings could cause a rise in COVID-19 cases.

Today in Security: World Password Day

Thu, 07 May 2020 14:15:44 -0400

The first Thursday of May is designated World Password Day, arguably more important than before as several organizations in various countries have workers operating remotely in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Today in Security History: Victory in Europe

Thu, 07 May 2020 07:00:10 -0400

On 7 May 1945, celebrations have begun throughout Europe. Years earlier, however, the race to collect intelligence had begun—coupled with counterintelligence measures—key determinants in deciding who would win World War II.

Today in Security: New Report Shows Decrease in FISA Surveillance Warrants

Wed, 06 May 2020 12:51:43 -0400

The newly declassified report by the U.S. Office of the Director of National Intelligence shows that the number of targets of court-approved surveillance decreased in 2019 after steady rise.

Today in Security: Security Officer Killed After Altercation Enforcing Face Covering Order

Tue, 05 May 2020 14:02:59 -0400

In a Family Dollar in Flint, Michigan, officer was shot and killed after barring a customer who was not wearing a face covering as mandated by the state’s governor.

Today in Security: How COVID-19 Might Change the Criminal Landscape

Mon, 04 May 2020 10:50:50 -0400

The economic and social impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have changed how vast swaths of society and organizations worldwide operate—including criminal organizations.

Today in Security: COVID-19 Could Accelerate Drastic Workplace Changes

Fri, 01 May 2020 12:57:29 -0400

More than a dozen U.S. states decided to reopen portions of their economy on 1 May, allowing individuals to return to their workplaces on International Workers Day. But a new survey from Gartner finds that not all formerly on-site employees will return to their offices.

Today in Security: United States Eyes Extension of Iran Arms Embargo

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 14:37:10 -0400

The United States once again split from its European allies when U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on 29 April that the country plans to extend its weapons ban on Tehran.

Today in Security: Largest Virginia County Moving Forward with Police Body Cameras

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 12:15:08 -0400

In the Washington, D.C., suburbs, Fairfax County’s body camera program begins this week. But in Florida, programs for police in Tampa and St. Pete are delayed due to coronavirus-related budget issues.

Today in Security: U.S. Homeland Security Investigations Launches Site Outlining Pandemic-Related Fraud Strategy

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 14:41:11 -0400

Fraudsters have jumped at the opportunities presented by the pandemic. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security investigative unit works to keep pace.

Today in Security: PPE Shortages Fuel Black Market, Recalls, and Confiscations

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 10:31:15 -0400

As healthcare providers and essential workers scramble to find adequate personal protective equipment (PPE), demand has far outstripped adequate supply—leading to price gouging, black market deals, and inadequate products being sold.

Today in Security: Task Force to Issue Best Practices on COVID-19 and Employee Safety

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 12:38:44 -0400

The National Safety Council announced the creation of a task force this week to provide best practices for employee safety and returning to work amidst the coronavirus pandemic.

Today in Security: Global Report Finds 135 Million Living with 'Acute Food Insecurity'

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 16:21:48 -0400

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the European Union, the World Food Programme, and 12 other partners jointly launched its annual Global Report on Food Crises on 21 April 2020.

Today in Security: China Fighting More COVID-19 Cases in Northern Regions Near Russian Border

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 12:38:09 -0400

As coronavirus cases in the provincial capital of Harbin continue to increase, China takes measures to ban non-residents from residential areas of the city.

Today in Security: GAO Report on Terrorism Risk Insurance Act: The Program Has Been Effective

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 13:47:42 -0400

Established to stabilize insurance markets after 9/11, the program slowly shifted more and more of the financial burden of terrorist incidents from federal sources back to market forces.

Today in Security: Amid the Pandemic, Mass Violence Threats Remain

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 09:37:06 -0400

With communities in lockdown and governments focused on confronting the coronavirus pandemic, authorities warn against ignoring the potential for extremism and violence during the crisis.

Today in Security: Leaders Face Increasing Pressure to Reopen Segments of the Economy

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 12:37:13 -0400

Despite a significant lack of testing availability in the United States, shortages of personal protective equipment, and the continued spread of the coronavirus around the globe, countries, states, and municipalities are facing increased pressure to take steps to reopen segments of their economies.

Today in Security: Cyber Hygiene Needs Improvement, Too

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 13:06:46 -0400

The U.S. Government Accountability Office is recommending that the Department of Defense improve its cyber hygiene practices.

Today in Security: European Union Releases Coronavirus Exit Roadmap

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 14:56:58 -0400

The roadmap offers guidance for easing COVID-19 restrictions, but individual countries are moving forward at different speeds with their own policies.

Today in Security: A Peak Behind the Curtain of Hindu Nationalism

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 14:29:10 -0400

Violence on the Indian peninsula has increased as Hindu nationalism gains steam.

Today in Security: Natural Disasters Force Tough Choices During Pandemic

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 10:29:42 -0400

As hurricane season nears and severe weather looms, authorities are grappling with the realities of responding to a natural disaster mid-pandemic.

Today in Security: South Koreans Test Positive for COVID-19, Again

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 11:51:31 -0400

Ninety-one patients who previously recovered from COVID-19 have tested positive for the disease again, South Korean officials confirmed on Friday.

Today in Security History: Menindor’s Funeral

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 09:34:01 -0400

Epidemiologists deemed that one funeral ceremony was the epicenter, the single central event that sparked the largest Ebola epidemic of recent times.

Today in Security: Watchdog Report Finds Syrian Government Forces Behind 2017 Chemical Attacks

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 11:59:56 -0400

Watchdog group Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons' Investigation and Identification Team determined that Syrian government forces were behind attacks on a Syrian town in 2017 where chemical weapons were used.

Today in Security: Teleworking Security Tips from DOD

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 12:58:48 -0400

The U.S. Department of Defense CIO released a list of a list of best practices for cybersecurity and protecting an information network while teleworking.

Today in Security: Stimulating the World’s Economies

Tue, 07 Apr 2020 17:03:41 -0400

Governments across the globe enact massive stimulus packages as pandemic upends the world economy.

Today in Security: Nations Change Guidance on Cloth Face Masks

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 10:30:50 -0400

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is now urging Americans to wear face masks when they venture outside, and even homemade cloth masks can be effective if used correctly.

Today in Security: Pandemic Spread Places New Pressure to Protect Essential Workers

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 12:23:52 -0400

A U.S. government task force is weighing recommendations from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and plans to issue recommendations in the next few days.

Today in Security: Idaho Becomes First State to Prohibit Some Transgender Athletes

Thu, 02 Apr 2020 13:50:02 -0400

Idaho's governor signed two bills into law on Monday that limit transgender rights, barring individuals from participating in female sports activities and from changing their sex on birth certificates.

Today in Security: Today in Security: 6.5 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Idaho

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 15:44:08 -0400

The quake was strong and widely felt, but given its distance from population centers, no casualties or major damage has been reported so far.

Today in Security: U.S. Proposal to Combat Child Pornography Raises Serious Security Concerns

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 13:34:29 -0400

Opponents of the bill says it will compromise encryption technology that protects consumers’ private information.

Today in Security: Pandemic Exacerbates Existing Food Security, Economic Challenges in Africa

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 09:56:41 -0400

Nearly half of all jobs in Africa could be lost amid the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Today in Security: Coronavirus Pandemic ‘Accelerating at an Exponential Rate,’ Straining Healthcare and Security

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 11:39:14 -0400

U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson tested positive for COVID-19 to close out a week where the number of confirmed cases has risen drastically worldwide, placing increasing pressure on leaders to take action to stop the spread of the coronavirus.

Today in Security: White Supremacist Pleads Guilty to Terrorist Attack at New Zealand Mosques

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 10:32:33 -0400

After initially denying involvement in the attacks, an Australian white supremacist pleaded guilty to killing 51 attendants at two New Zealand mosques in 2019.

BCI Study: State of Organizational Business Continuity Plan Implementation

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 14:35:33 -0400

Most organizations have activated incident management teams; fewer had practiced for an emergency situation in the previous 12 months.

Today in Security: Man Charged with Terror Threat for Alleged Coughing Incident

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 13:12:02 -0400

New Jersey officials arrested a state resident after he allegedly coughed on a grocery store employee and told her he had the coronavirus.

Today in Security: Can Technology Address Warranty Fraud?

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 12:12:56 -0400

Technology components manufacturers are primary targets for warranty fraud, but new data-crunching technology may be able to help.

Today in Security: India Locks Down 80 Cities and Districts to Mitigate COVID-19 Spread

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 09:42:08 -0400

More than 80 cities and districts across India—including New Delhi—have been placed under stringent lockdown after coronavirus cases were detected there.

Today in Security: CISA Releases Guidance on Essential Personnel to Coronavirus Response

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 13:08:09 -0400

The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) released guidance to aid U.S. state and local jurisdictions, as well as the private sector, in identifying and managing essential workers in the response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Today in Security: Two Companies Agree to Pay $250K to Settle Race Discrimination and Harassment Lawsuit

Thu, 19 Mar 2020 13:15:50 -0400

Two rail services and disaster response companies created a racially hostile work environment for black employees, according to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

Today in Security: Utah Hit By 5.7-Magnitude Earthquake

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 13:47:11 -0400

The earthquake hit near Magna, several miles west of downtown Salt Lake City. No fatalities have yet been reported, but afflicted areas continue to be monitored.

Today in Security: Cyber Criminals Use Wide Array of Pandemic-Inspired Methods

Tue, 17 Mar 2020 14:39:47 -0400

From phishing to malware to ransomware, COVID-19-related attacks seek to take advantage of vulnerabilities.

Today in Security: Countries Impose Lockdowns, Domestic Restrictions as COVID-19 Death Toll Rises

Mon, 16 Mar 2020 10:56:33 -0400

Nations worldwide are imposing increasingly strict quarantine and travel restrictions as the COVID-19 pandemic spreads.

Today in Security: Officials and Executives Mandate Closures to ‘Flatten the Curve’

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 12:50:53 -0400

Government officials and business executives are enacting unprecedented measures to limit public exposure as the coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to spread around the globe.

Today in Security: Harvey Weinstein Receives 23 -Year Prison Sentence for Sex Crimes

Thu, 12 Mar 2020 13:30:28 -0400

Movie producer Harvey Weinstein was sentenced to serve 23 years in prison after he was found guilty of sexually assaulting two women.

Today in Security: U.S. National Biodefense Strategy Needs Improvement, Watchdog Found

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 13:28:13 -0400

The national plan to defend the United States from biothreats like chemical weapons needs better implementation procedures, according to a new watchdog report.

Today in Security: The Oil Feud of 2020

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 11:51:33 -0400

Oil-rich Russia and Saudi Arabia play a game of economic chicken with each country promising large production increases that could decimate oil markets—at a time when overall financial markets are already reeling.

Today in Security: Protesters March Against Gender-Based Violence in Mexico City

Mon, 09 Mar 2020 10:48:17 -0400

According to government data, femicides in Mexico have surged 137 percent over the past five years; many violent murders go unsolved.

Today in Security: WHO Calls for Global Push to Stop Coronavirus Spread

Fri, 06 Mar 2020 11:36:31 -0500

The World Health Organization is asking for leaders to use their full government powers to stop the spread of the coronavirus outbreak, which has neared more than 100,000 cases around the globe.

Today in Security: Locusts and a Lack of Rain

Thu, 05 Mar 2020 12:54:21 -0500

The United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) added two more countries to its list of those in need of external assistance for food, exacerbated by the strain imposed from a massive group of migrating locusts.

Today in Security: Security's Role as Coronavirus Affects Supply Chain and Business Continuity

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 11:02:40 -0500

Learn how the spread of COVID-19 is affecting businesses and security's role in crisis management and response in this segment from a recent ASIS webinar.

Today in Security: Tennessee Trampled by Tornadoes

Tue, 03 Mar 2020 12:16:38 -0500

Officials said early Tuesday that at least 19 were killed by brutal storms that wreaked havoc on four counties in western and central Tennessee.

Today in Security: COVID-19 Outbreak Possible at Nursing Home in Washington

Mon, 02 Mar 2020 11:11:43 -0500

The novel coronavirus COVID-19 may have been circulating undetected in Washington state over the past six weeks, according to a genetic analysis of virus samples.

Today in Security: Molson Coors Shooting

Thu, 27 Feb 2020 12:21:48 -0500

Little remains unknown after an employee walked onto the Molson Coors campus on Wednesday afternoon and began shooting, killing five coworkers before killing himself.

Today in Security: Coronavirus Spreading Outside China

Wed, 26 Feb 2020 13:02:01 -0500

As the number of cases outside China grows, U.S. health officials say that Americans should prepare for the virus spreading in the United States.

Today in Security: Spotlight on U.S. Government Use of AI

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 11:28:43 -0500

Researchers note the limited use of artificial intelligence in the U.S. government, as well as opportunities for enhancement.

Today in Security: Italy Cuts Venice Carnival Short Over Coronavirus Concerns

Mon, 24 Feb 2020 11:24:20 -0500

Italian officials ended Venice Carnival—an annual festival that attracts thousands of people—two days early as COVID-19 coronavirus cases continue to climb.

Today in Security: United States, Britain Link Russian GRU Unit to Sandworm

Fri, 21 Feb 2020 11:02:23 -0500

The United States linked a Russian military unit to the hacking group known as Sandworm which is said to be responsible for some of the most significant cyberattacks around the globe over the past 10 years.

Today in Security: Motel Settles Lawsuit with Human Trafficking Survivor

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 13:45:10 -0500

A woman who was held captive settled her lawsuit against the motel, alleging that the company profited financially from the crime.

Today in Security: AI Robot on Patrol

Wed, 19 Feb 2020 13:10:00 -0500

A Kansas City firm is touting its sensor-filled AI security robot—"We find ourselves constantly humanizing him," says the company’s VP.

Today in Security: Five Things Security Professionals Should Keep in Mind as Coronavirus Spreads

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 11:43:03 -0500

As COVID-19, the coronavirus outbreak centered in China, is spreading and beginning to effect companies whose supply chains and markets involve China, security professionals should examine their organization’s pandemic preparedness plans.

Today in Security: DOJ Charges Huawei With Trade Secret Theft

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 11:39:58 -0500

The U.S. Department of Justice charged Huawei and its subsidiaries with racketeering conspiracy and conspiracy to steal trade secrets in an indictment released late Thursday afternoon.

Today in Security: Backlash Against Unregulated Use of Facial Recognition

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 12:43:10 -0500

Lawmakers in the United States and Scotland are considering legislation limiting the use of facial recognition.

Today in Security: Automation and IT Security

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 13:08:21 -0500

A new survey of practitioners finds that a majority of respondents believe that automation will reduce the number of human staffers in the IT security function.

Today in Security: U.S. Charges Chinese Army for 2017 Equifax Breach

Tue, 11 Feb 2020 13:21:03 -0500

The breach compromised sensitive personal information on more than 145 million Americans.

Today in Security: Voter Data for 6.5 Million Israelis Leaked

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 10:51:30 -0500

A security lapse by an app maker led to the exposure of data from all 6.5 million eligible voters in Israel, including full names, addresses, genders, phone numbers, and identity card numbers.

Today in Security: Watchdog Finds CISA Election Strategy Incomplete

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 12:54:04 -0500

A vital U.S. government agency tasked with aiding state and local election officials to secure election systems “has not yet completed” plans to secure the 2020 U.S. presidential election less than 10 months away, a watchdog report found.

Today in Security: FBI Director Says Russia Involved in 'Information Warfare'

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 12:35:57 -0500

FBI Director Chris Wray tells Congress that Russia is conducting "information warfare" leading into the 2020 U.S. presidential election.

Today in Security: Bus Security Questioned After California Shooting

Wed, 05 Feb 2020 13:14:56 -0500

The incident this week, in which a bus passenger opened fire on other riders, brought into focus the difficulties of ground transit security.

Today in Security: Convergence Drivers: Conditions Point to Increased Physical and Cybersecurity Integration

Tue, 04 Feb 2020 11:54:23 -0500

The State of Convergence report shows slow adoption of a converged security function, but business conditions may speed up the timetable.

Today in Security: Britain Considers New Rules for Terrorism Convicts After Attack

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 10:05:35 -0500

After the second militant attack in two months, the British government plans to announce new rules for the imprisonment of people convicted of terrorist offenses.

Today in Security: Security Measures Ramp Up for Super Bowl Weekend

Fri, 31 Jan 2020 13:24:13 -0500

Thousands of people from all over the world are headed to Miami this weekend for Super Bowl LIV to watch the Kansas City Chiefs battle the San Francisco 49ers on the field.

Today in Security: Coronavirus Infects Over 7,700 Worldwide

Thu, 30 Jan 2020 14:05:07 -0500

With Chinese officials confirming that more than 8,000 cases of the coronavirus, governments are evacuating their citizens from heart of the outbreak while airlines worldwide cancel flights to China.

Today in Security: African Locusts Threaten Food Security

Wed, 29 Jan 2020 10:31:08 -0500

Kenya is suffering its worst desert locust infestation in 70 years, and the swarms are threatening to spread further into East Africa and threaten the region's food security.

Today in Security: Spotlight on Data Privacy

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 11:45:47 -0500

On Data Privacy Day, here are a collection of resources for security professionals.

Today in Security: Insurance Rates Climb After Chilean Protests

Mon, 27 Jan 2020 10:41:32 -0500

Insurance premiums to protect shops, offices, and businesses in Chile from damage related to anti-government protests in 2019 and early 2020 have at least doubled, and in some cases they have tripled.

Today in Security History: Shays' Rebellion

Sat, 25 Jan 2020 10:28:25 -0500

A 1787 rebellion over taxation led to the development of stronger national law enforcement and judiciary systems in the United States.

Today in Security: China Further Restricts Travel To Contain Outbreak

Fri, 24 Jan 2020 11:16:07 -0500

China restricted travel from 12 more cities near Wuhan in an attempt to contain the deadly outbreak of coronavirus (2019-nCoV), which has infected 830 and killed 26 people so far.

Today in Security: The Recording Academy & Sexual Harassment

Thu, 23 Jan 2020 15:12:45 -0500

After being ousted from the Recording Academy, former CEO Deborah Dugan filed a complaint with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, claiming the academy contributed to sexual harassment, gender discrimination, and unequal pay.

Today in Security: Deadly Coronavirus Spreads

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 13:04:12 -0500

A new virus originating in Wuhan, China, has infected hundreds since its outbreak in December.

Today in Security: An Armed Congregation

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 12:54:18 -0500

Texas church shooting has many thinking about armed security in houses of worship.

Today in Security: Suspected Neo-Nazis Arrested Ahead of Gun Rights Rally

Fri, 17 Jan 2020 13:12:00 -0500

The FBI arrested three men on Thursday suspected of being neo-Nazis planning to travel with a machine gun to a Richmond rally to support gun rights.

Today in Security: Virginia Moves for Greater Gun Control

Thu, 16 Jan 2020 14:05:50 -0500

Four gun control bills are being considered by Virginia's Congress, following up the ban to firearms in the state capitol.

Today in Security: Plane Dumps Fuel Before Landing

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 14:13:42 -0500

Dozens of people treated for skin irritation after passenger plane dumped fuel to reduce landing weight.

Today in Security: U.S. Government Skeptical of Chinese-Made Drones

Tue, 14 Jan 2020 10:46:18 -0500

Department of Interior, military, other agencies cite security concerns with Chinese-made drones.

Today in Security: Screening Enhanced for Saudi Military Students After Shooting

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 11:55:45 -0500

More than 20 students receiving military training in the United States will be sent back to Saudi Arabia following a Pentagon review of a December 2019 shooting at the Naval Air Station in Pensacola, Florida.

Today in Security History: United States Marshal Robert Forsyth

Sat, 11 Jan 2020 08:36:46 -0500

On 11 January 1794, U.S. Marshal Robert Forsyth was the first federal law enforcement officer killed during an adversarial action.

Today in Security: Internal Boeing Messages Mocked 737 MAX Regulators

Fri, 10 Jan 2020 11:27:36 -0500

Boeing released an embarrassing cache of emails to congressional investigators that call into question the culture of safety the company says it promotes in air transportation.

Today in Security: Unhackable Voting Machines Found to Be Vulnerable to Hacking

Thu, 09 Jan 2020 12:49:27 -0500

A study from the University of Michigan found that voting machines advertised as a secure alternative are still hackable.

Today in Security: U.S. States Increase Security Funding in Response to Hate Crimes

Tue, 07 Jan 2020 11:50:27 -0500

New York announces $45 million grant program for security at religious schools and institutions after rash of anti-Semitic attacks.

Today in Security: Iran Bombs U.S. Bases in Iraq

Wed, 08 Jan 2020 12:56:59 -0500

Early reports indicated no U.S. casualties in the strikes, which were in retaliation for the killing of Iranian military leader Qassem Soleimani.

Today in Security: Bushfires Stress Resources in Australia

Mon, 06 Jan 2020 10:25:52 -0500

In response to catastrophic, ongoing bushfires, 3,000 reservists have been called up to assist in firefighting and evacuations in Australia—the largest military deployment on the continent since World War II.

Today in Security: United States Launched Drone Strike to Kill Iranian General

Fri, 03 Jan 2020 11:40:58 -0500

The United States confirmed it launched a drone strike that killed Qasem Soleimani, head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Quds Force.

Today in Security: Illinois Legalizes Recreational Marijuana

Thu, 02 Jan 2020 13:15:41 -0500

A new year brought new laws, including legalizing recreational marijuana, becoming the 11th state in the United States to do so. The same law included criminal justice reforms that resulted in more than 11,000 pardons for persons with marijuana convictions.

Happy Holidays from Security Management

Tue, 24 Dec 2019 07:00:10 -0500

The Security Management team wishes you and yours a happy holiday! Enjoy this list of some of the SM editors' favorite articles of 2019.

Today in Security: DHS Offers New Recommendations for Faith-Based Organization Security

Mon, 23 Dec 2019 10:50:42 -0500

A new report calls for immediate aid to improve security and prevent future attacks at houses of worship and faith-based communities.

Today in Security: Top Risk Forecast for 2020

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 13:23:21 -0500

The internationalization of far-right threats and tension between the Persian Gulf countries rank as the top two security risks for companies in 2020, according to a new risk forecast.

Today in Security: Porch Piracy

Thu, 19 Dec 2019 14:10:48 -0500

'Tis the season for holiday shopping and thieves snooping around your doorstep. With U.S. consumers expected to spend about $136 billion in online purchases between 1 November and 31 December, a 13 percent increase from what was spent during that same period in 2018, package thefts are on our minds as over 30 percent of shoppers have reported a theft happening within the past year.

Today in Security: OPM Improves Cybersecurity After Mega Breach But Challenges Remain

Wed, 18 Dec 2019 12:11:34 -0500

The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has made strides in increasing its cybersecurity, but more work remains to be done almost five years after the agency suffered one of the largest government data breaches in history.

Today in Security: How Converged Are Corporate Security Functions?

Tue, 17 Dec 2019 14:10:21 -0500

ASIS Foundation study researches the degree to which physical security, cybersecurity, and business continuity have converged into a single department.

Today in Security: Protests in India Expand After Violence on University Campuses

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 10:39:26 -0500

Protests against a citizenship law turned violent this weekend in India as police used force inside two university campuses, injuring more than 100 students.

Today in Security: Retailers See Rise in Organized Retail Crime

Fri, 13 Dec 2019 11:59:25 -0500

Retailers continue to face serious challenges from organized retail crime, which averaged more than $700,000 per $1 billion in sales in 2019, a new survey found.

Today in Security: U.S. Troops Might Soon be Able to Sue for Medical Malpractice

Thu, 12 Dec 2019 12:57:52 -0500

The 2020 National Defense Authorization Act includes an adjustment to a 1950s U.S. Supreme Court ruling that prevents troops or their families from suing the federal government for injuries or deaths determined "incidental" to minor service.

Today in Security: Jersey City Shooting Targeted Kosher Market

Wed, 11 Dec 2019 13:17:29 -0500

Two attackers who killed four in a New Jersey shootout seemed to be targeting the kosher market where the violence took place.

Today in Security: Hong Kong Protests Hit 6-Month Mark

Tue, 10 Dec 2019 11:15:20 -0500

In new Hong Kong developments, Taiwan stands ready to assist those who want to leave Hong Kong and two homemade bombs with significant explosive capacity were found.

Today in Security: Investigators Search for Motive in Pensacola Naval Air Station Shooting

Mon, 09 Dec 2019 10:57:00 -0500

Officials are treating the shooting, which left three dead and eight wounded, as an act of terrorism and are investigating whether the gunman was working as part of a larger network.

Today in Security: Uber Releases First U.S. Safety Report

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 13:16:18 -0500

Uber released its first U.S. safety report this week—the only report of its kind for the rideshare industry, examining incidents of sexual assault, physical assault/murder, and motor vehicle fatalities in 2017 and 2018.

Today in Security: Strikes in France Shut Down Eiffel Tower

Thu, 05 Dec 2019 14:54:53 -0500

Tens of thousands of people protesting in Paris and other French cities led to a shut down of the Eiffel Tower and the country's high-speed train system, as well as clashes with police.

Today in Security: Deadly Protests in Iran

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 13:08:22 -0500

Death toll estimates for recent protests range from roughly 200 to more than 400, making it the country’s deadliest unrest in 40 years.

Today in Security: Your Security Career May Not Follow the Path You Expect

Tue, 03 Dec 2019 11:57:47 -0500

The most recent ASIS Mentoring Committee Security Management podcast looks at how careers often flow in unexpected directions.

Today in Security: UN Secretary-General Issues Global Warming Warning

Mon, 02 Dec 2019 10:11:07 -0500

The world’s efforts to stop climate change have been “totally inadequate” so far, said UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The impact of rising temperatures, such as more extreme weather and melting polar ice, is already affecting global populations.

Today in Security: D.C. Expanding Camera Program

Wed, 27 Nov 2019 13:18:03 -0500

With the homicide rate continuing to rise in Washington, D.C., officials are implementing a 70 percent increase in the surveillance camera program.

Today in Security: Democrats Unveil Their Preferred Online Privacy Law

Tue, 26 Nov 2019 13:49:35 -0500

Despite writing and releasing the text of a bill, bipartisan work on a federal online privacy law is expected to continue well into 2020.

Today in Security: France Announces Plan to Address Domestic Violence

Mon, 25 Nov 2019 09:55:06 -0500

Days after large-scale protests, the French government unveiled a multimillion euro plan to address domestic violence, including electronic tracking bracelets for abusers and prevention programs in schools.

Today in Security: Russia Spreading Ukraine-Based Hacking Theory

Fri, 22 Nov 2019 16:56:58 -0500

U.S. intelligence officials confirmed that Russia has been spreading a disinformation campaign about Ukrainian efforts to interfere in the 2016 U.S. presidential election.

Today in Security: General Motors Sues Fiat Chrysler, Alleging Bribery

Thu, 21 Nov 2019 12:39:21 -0500

U.S. automaker General Motors claims that Fiat Chrysler Automobiles' corrupt bargaining practices hurt its business, resulting in a loss of billions for GM. GM filed the lawsuit in the middle of Fiat's attempts to finalize a merger with a French automaker.

Today in Security: U.S. Guarding Revenues Reach $29 Billion

Wed, 20 Nov 2019 16:00:37 -0500

A new study of the U.S. private security services market predicts continued growth in overall guarding revenue for the next few years.

Today in Security: What Does Successful Risk Management Look Like?

Tue, 19 Nov 2019 15:33:16 -0500

We Work risk manager shares what he thinks are the outcomes of a successful risk management plan.

Today in Security: International Students Leave Hong Kong Amid Protests

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 10:26:29 -0500

International universities are recalling exchange students as Hong Kong protests escalate on college campuses.

Today in Security: FBI's Lone Offender Terrorism Report

Fri, 15 Nov 2019 11:07:50 -0500

The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation released the Lone Offender Terrorism Report, looking at the people and events surrounding the 52 attacks that have occurred since 1972.

Today in Security: DOJ Rolls Out Plan to Reduce Gun Violence

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 08:35:38 -0500

U.S. Attorney General William Barr released a new plan to reduce gun violence and enforce existing federal firearms laws across the country.

Today in Security: U.S. Intellectual Property at Risk

Wed, 13 Nov 2019 13:53:58 -0500

U.S. federal officials say that foreign governments are trying to steal ideas, proprietary information, and research from American universities.

Today in Security: Designing a Security Function that Works

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 15:28:04 -0500

A new webinar discusses the importance of thinking about how security processes and systems are designed from a user experience perspective.

Today in Security: Most School Attackers Showed Warning Signs, Report Finds

Fri, 08 Nov 2019 10:34:27 -0500

Most students who committed deadly school attacks over the past decade were bullied, had a history of disciplinary trouble, and concerned others with their behavior—but that behavior was never reported, according to a U.S. Secret Service study.

Today in Security: Extreme Smog Season in India

Thu, 07 Nov 2019 13:31:55 -0500

For days, residents of New Delhi, India, have been trapped in a toxic smog, fueled by transportation emissions and agricultural fires.

Today in Security: Feds Warn About Election Hacking

Wed, 06 Nov 2019 13:46:00 -0500

A group of U.S. federal agencies released a joint statement Tuesday pledging to work with states and localities to protect the 2020 election.

Today in Security: AI Commission Charts Pathway Forward for U.S.

Tue, 05 Nov 2019 12:12:15 -0500

U.S. superiority in artificial intelligence is endangered, according to a new report from the National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence.

Today in Security: Opioid Use’s Impact on the Workplace

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 12:15:17 -0500

Nearly every racial and ethnic group, and people of all ages, saw an increase in opioid-involved and synthetic opioid-involved overdose death rates, CNN reports.

Today in Security: Voting Village Visits DC to Raise Election Security Awareness

Fri, 01 Nov 2019 11:39:07 -0400

DEF CON’s Voting Village left Las Vegas and moved to Washington, D.C., to raise awareness about threats to America’s election infrastructure.

Today in Security: Day 56: California Battles Wildfires With Goats

Thu, 31 Oct 2019 13:57:40 -0400

Now at day 56, wildfires in California continue to burn hot and heavy, fueled by hurricane-force Santa Ana winds.

Today in Security: Thought-Controlled Drones

Wed, 30 Oct 2019 08:58:30 -0400

DARPA and its researchers are developing a brain–computer interface that could allow individuals to operate drones and cyber defense systems with their thoughts.

Today in Security: Allocation of Security Resources

Tue, 29 Oct 2019 11:28:07 -0400

While the budget for cybersecurity is seeing larger increases, both cyber and physical security budgets are on the rise, new research shows.

Today in Security History: Special Agent Tom White

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 06:00:11 -0400

In 1923, Osage leaders requested U.S. federal government assistance investigating murders of tribal members in the Oklahoma oil fields. The BOI assigned one special agent.

Today in Security: Storming SCIF Causes Security Breach on Capitol Hill

Fri, 25 Oct 2019 12:52:35 -0400

U.S. Representatives Matt Gaetz and Steve Scalise led a group of lawmakers into a closed hearing on Capitol Hill on Wednesday in a major breach of protocol and security.

Today in Security: Travelers' Information Leaked

Thu, 24 Oct 2019 15:25:58 -0400

A data breach compromised sensitive travel information on U.S. Department of Homeland Security and military personnel.

Today in Security: Deadly Chilean Protests

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 12:57:46 -0400

Student demonstrations in Chile have turned into a wider protest movement against the cost of living and income inequality marked by violence that has left at least 15 people dead.

Today in Security: Warehouse Automation and the Effect on the Workplace

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 13:13:55 -0400

Systems of sensors, monitors, and data analysis have led warehouses to reorient jobs to find the absolute most efficient way to pick and assemble orders. Safety and security implications abound.

Today in Security: Anti-Semitic Incidents, Plots Remain High in U.S., Report Says

Mon, 21 Oct 2019 09:47:05 -0400

In the past year, there have been at least 12 white supremacists arrested for their alleged roles in plotting, threatening, or carrying out anti-Semitic attacks in the United States.

Today in Security: Cyber Awareness Focuses On Individual Action

Fri, 18 Oct 2019 12:29:21 -0400

As part of National Cybersecurity Awareness month, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Agency (CISA) and the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA)—launched the “Own IT. Secure IT. Protect IT.” campaign.

Today in Security: Bye-Bye to Welcome to Video

Thu, 17 Oct 2019 13:41:00 -0400

The operator and several users of the largest known child sexual exploitation site, Welcome to Video, were indicted by a federal grand jury.

Today in Security: Reported U.S. Nukes in Turkey

Wed, 16 Oct 2019 13:18:09 -0400

Turkey’s incursion into Syria has raised concerns about U.S. nuclear weapons reportedly stored in a Turkish air base near the Syrian border.

Today in Security: Boards and Execs Do Not See Risk the Same Way

Tue, 15 Oct 2019 13:37:56 -0400

Research from the Institute of Internal Auditors looks at the state of corporate risk management.

Today in Security: Thousands of Californians Still Without Power Due to Public Safety Shutoff

Fri, 11 Oct 2019 11:15:24 -0400

Thousands of Californians are without power for the second day in a row after the U.S. state’s largest electricity provider decided to cut the cord to prevent wildfires.

Today in Security: Most Data Breaches Come from Insiders

Thu, 10 Oct 2019 09:54:07 -0400

A new study says employees are to blame for as many as half of all data breaches.

Today in Security: U.S. Election Security Challenges

Wed, 09 Oct 2019 14:12:58 -0400

A new bipartisan Senate report finds that Russia’s interference in the 2016 election was worse than previously known, and the 2020 election is also vulnerable.

Today in Security: Watchdog Critiques DEA Role in Opioid Crisis

Tue, 08 Oct 2019 16:20:03 -0400

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) authorized large increases in the production of painkillers despite the growing number of opioid-related deaths in the U.S., according to Justice Department review.

Today in Security: Welcome to the Extinction Rebellion

Mon, 07 Oct 2019 12:36:35 -0400

Two weeks of global protests highlighting a "climate and ecological emergency" kicked off with multiple arrests in Sydney, Amsterdam, London, and New Zealand.

Today in Security: Officials Ask Facebook to Halt End-to-End Encryption Efforts

Fri, 04 Oct 2019 15:40:14 -0400

Australian, British, and U.S. officials asked Facebook not to fully encrypt its messaging services to provide greater access to data for law enforcement.

Today in Security: Whistleblowing Misinformation

Thu, 03 Oct 2019 14:31:42 -0400

Despite recent news reports and tweets alleging recent illegal changes to federal whistleblowing requirements, the Intelligence Community Whistleblower Protection Act has not altered its standards, nor the limited protections to complainants.

Today in Security: Assessed Risk in Hong Kong

Wed, 02 Oct 2019 13:02:00 -0400

A travel risk management firm says that risk of unrest in Hong Kong is high as protests increasingly impact infrastructure.

Today in Security: FBI Releases Crime Statistics

Tue, 01 Oct 2019 13:16:17 -0400

In 2018, both violent crime and property crime declined, according to new FBI statistics.

Today in Security: Disinformation Campaigns Affected at Least 70 Countries

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 11:37:46 -0400

A new report from Oxford University researchers found that at least 70 countries have experienced political disinformation campaigns, which are becoming increasingly professional and organized.

Today in Security: Egyptian Protests Break Out Again

Fri, 27 Sep 2019 13:03:53 -0400

After protests last weekend led to many arrests and heightened security, Egyptians return to the streets.

Today in Security: Video App Sued Over BIPA Violation in Illinois

Thu, 26 Sep 2019 15:10:19 -0400

Vimeo, a video platform and YouTube competitor, is facing a class action lawsuit over its practice of collecting and keeping users' biometrics without any written consent or required information.

Today in Security: Global Sea Levels Rising Faster Than Expected

Wed, 25 Sep 2019 12:30:35 -0400

Global sea levels are rising faster than expected and could pose major security problems around the globe.

Today in Security: Enhancing Travel Risk Management Programs

Tue, 24 Sep 2019 14:14:24 -0400

Using the intelligence cycle to keep travelling employees safe and secure.

Today in Security: Hong Kong Protests Continue to Escalate

Mon, 23 Sep 2019 09:35:12 -0400

Hong Kong businesses are experiencing the economic effects of increasingly violent demonstrations as antigovernment protesters focus on shopping centers and subway stations.

Today in Security: Report Finds World is Unprepared for Next Global Pandemic

Fri, 20 Sep 2019 11:51:51 -0400

Governments and organizations around the world must take immediate steps to prepare for and mitigate the effects of a global health emergency that could potentially kill millions.

Today in Security: Edward Snowden's Permanent Record

Thu, 19 Sep 2019 16:45:52 -0400

The U.S. is suing Edward Snowden for publishing a book that the government claims violates a non-discolsure agreement with the NSA and CIA.

Today in Security: New Research on Corporate Security Incidents

Tue, 17 Sep 2019 14:52:19 -0400

Study highlights what types of security incidents cause the most pain.

Today in Security: Refinery Attacks Affect Global Oil Production

Mon, 16 Sep 2019 11:16:51 -0400

Drone strikes on two major Saudi oil refineries this weekend shut off more than half of Saudi Arabia’s daily exports, or about 5 percent of the world’s crude oil production.

Today in Security: Welcome to Global Security Exchange (GSX)

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 06:00:10 -0400

Security Management is reporting live this week from Global Security Exchange (GSX) in Chicago, Illinois.

Today in Security: Judge Says U.S. Terrorism Watchlist Is Unconstitutional

Fri, 06 Sep 2019 12:16:20 -0400

The database that the U.S. federal government uses to compile its terrorism watchlist violates American’s rights, according to a ruling by a U.S. federal judge.

Today in Security: National Campus Safety Awareness Month

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 13:29:37 -0400

September is National Campus Safety Awareness Month. You can find resources from ASIS International, the Clery Center, and Traktik that can help you make learning environments safer for students coming back to campus.

Today in Security: Facebook Opposes Fake Accounts Created by DHS

Wed, 04 Sep 2019 13:22:41 -0400

After DHS authorized agents to use fake social media accounts for investigations, Facebook balks.

Today in Security: 2019 Sees Roughly Twice as Many Domestic Terrorism Cases as International

Tue, 03 Sep 2019 11:35:43 -0400

The trend, with some variation, stretches back to the Obama administration.

Today in Security: Hackers Used Websites to Gain Access to iPhones for Years

Sun, 01 Sep 2019 19:08:14 -0400

New research from Google's Project Zero Day details a hack that used compromised websites to infiltrate iPhones over several years.

Today in Security: Google and Uber Engineer Facing Criminal Charges

Sun, 01 Sep 2019 19:11:28 -0400

Still haunted by the Waymo-Uber scandal, a former Google engineer and startup entrepreneur is facing criminal charges of trade secret theft.

Today in Security: Hurricane Warning Issued

Sun, 01 Sep 2019 19:14:28 -0400

Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands receive warning as Tropical Storm Dorian approaches.