#Security Challenges

[trendtracker360writer]

National security isn't just about military defense anymore; it’s evolved to tackle a range of issues from cyber threats to climate change. Once seen as a simplistic concept, today it spans economic stability and food security, requiring a comprehensive strategy that involves government, international cooperation, and citizen engagement.

As our global landscape shifts, understanding these complexities is key for all of us. We need to stay informed and ready to discuss vital security challenges that impact our lives directly. Building a secure future means being proactive and collaborative.

Want to dive deeper into investment strategies amidst all this nuance? Sign Up to the free newsletter here www.investmentrarities.com.

[lmsintmedia]

ECOWAS Faces Uncertainty as Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso Withdraw

The withdrawal of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is set to take effect on January 29, 2024, following a year of rising political tensions. This decision marks a significant shift in the regional landscape, leaving ECOWAS’s future in doubt. After a formal notification on January 29, 2024, these three countries, led by military regimes,…

[firstoccupier]

Philippines and Taiwan: Navigating Geopolitical Tensions

Review of Michael Turton’s Article on Taiwan’s Strategic Importance In a thought-provoking article, Notes from Central Taiwan: Gaming the Wrong War, Michael Turton delves into the escalating concerns surrounding the Philippines’ potential involvement in a future conflict over Taiwan amid rising tensions between the United States and China. Taiwan is positioned as a crucial focal point for a…

[dhanasrivista]

Frequently Asked Questions on CISM Certification

The Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) certification, offered by ISACA, is one of the most sought-after credentials in the information security domain. It validates an individual’s expertise in managing and governing an organization’s security program. Whether you’re an aspiring CISM professional or exploring the idea of certification, this article addresses some of the most frequently asked questions about CISM.

1. What is the CISM Certification?

CISM (Certified Information Security Manager) is a globally recognized certification designed for professionals who manage enterprise information security programs. Unlike certifications that focus on technical aspects, CISM emphasizes risk management, governance, and aligning security with business goals.

2. Who Should Pursue CISM?

CISM is ideal for:

Information security managers

Aspiring IT security professionals

IT consultants focused on security

Risk management and compliance specialists

3. What Are the Prerequisites for CISM?

To earn the CISM certification, you must meet the following criteria:

Pass the CISM exam.

Have at least five years of work experience in information security management.

Experience must be across three or more CISM domains, with a waiver of up to two years available for certain qualifications or certifications (e.g., CISSP, CISA, or a related degree).

4. What Are the CISM Domains?

The CISM certification exam is divided into four domains:

Information Security Governance (17%) stablishing and managing the security strategy.

Information Risk Management (20%) Identifying and mitigating risks.

Information Security Program Development and Management (33%) Designing and managing the organization’s security program.

Information Security Incident Management (30%) Preparing for and responding to security incidents.

5. How Do I Register for the CISM Exam?

To register:

Visit ISACA’s official website.

Create an account if you don’t already have one.

Schedule the exam at a convenient time and location through ISACA’s partner test centers.

Pay the exam fee: $575 for ISACA members and $760 for non-members (subject to change).

6. What Is the Format of the CISM Exam?

The CISM exam consists of:

150 multiple-choice questions

A four-hour time limit

Questions that evaluate knowledge across the four domains

A scaled score ranging from 200 to 800, with 450 as the passing mark

7. How Can I Prepare for the CISM Exam?

Preparation tips include:

Study the CISM Review Manual: ISACA’s official manual is an essential resource.

Practice Questions: Use ISACA’s question database for realistic practice.

Attend Training Programs: Enroll in instructor-led or online courses offered by training providers like NovelVista, Simplilearn, or ISACA.

Join Study Groups: Leverage forums and communities to share insights and tips.

Time Management: Practice under timed conditions to simulate the exam environment.

8. What Is the Cost of the CISM Certification?

The total cost includes:

Exam registration fees ($575-$760)

Study materials (varies by provider)

Optional training programs (cost depends on the mode and duration)

9. What Are the Benefits of CISM Certification?

Global Recognition: CISM is respected worldwide as a premier security management certification.

Higher Earning Potential: Certified professionals often command higher salaries.

Career Advancement: Opens doors to leadership roles in IT security.

Improved Knowledge: Enhances your understanding of aligning security with business objectives.

10. How Long Is the Certification Valid?

CISM certification is valid for three years. To maintain it, you must:

Earn 120 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits during the three years.

Pay an annual maintenance fee of $45 for ISACA members or $85 for non-members.

11. What Jobs Can I Get with a CISM Certification?

CISM-certified professionals are qualified for roles such as:

Information Security Manager

IT Risk Manager

Security Consultant

Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

12. How Does CISM Compare to CISSP?

Both certifications are highly respected, but they serve different purposes:

CISM focuses on management, governance, and aligning security strategies with business goals.

CISSP emphasizes technical expertise and security practices. Your choice depends on whether you aspire to management (CISM) or technical (CISSP) roles.

13. What Are Common Challenges in CISM Preparation?

Some challenges include:

Balancing study time with work responsibilities

Understanding managerial concepts if your background is technical

Staying updated on evolving security standards

14. Are There Any Alternatives to CISM?

Yes, alternatives include:

CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional)

CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor)

CRISC (Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control)

ISO 27001 Lead Implementer

In conclusion, the CISM certification and CISM Training is a valuable credential for professionals aiming to excel in information security management. By addressing these frequently asked questions, we hope you gain a clearer understanding of what it takes to achieve this milestone and how it can advance your career.

[productiveandfree]

The Future of Ecommerce: Trends and Predictions for 2025

Many trends await the future of ecommerce. With global retail ecommerce sales expected to reach an estimated $6.9 trillion by 2025, online shopping is becoming the new norm.

New technologies and changing consumer behaviors are reshaping how businesses connect with customers.

To stay ahead of the curve, businesses should watch out for key trends and predictions in ecommerce.

In this article, I’ll talk about the seven major trends that will shape the future of ecommerce by 2025. Understanding these changes can help businesses adapt and thrive in a highly competitive and rapidly changing industry.

The Future of Ecommerce: 7 Trends and Predictions to Watch Out For

Around 2.77 billion people are predicted to shop online by 2025, creating many business growth opportunities in ecommerce.

However, this also means more competition and higher expectations from your customers. If you want to succeed, you must stay updated on the following trends shaping the future of ecommerce in 2025.

1. Growing Focus on Enhanced Ecommerce Security

The ecommerce industry isn't a stranger to security challenges, making security a top priority to ensure success. To protect customers from identity theft and other forms of data breaches, online businesses have been putting more emphasis on security.

According to Keeper Security, 92% of IT leaders believe these attacks are happening more often now than in 2023. Additionally, Check Point Research reported a 30% increase in cyber attacks worldwide.

To address this increase in cyber threats, online businesses have added more robust security measures, such as two-factor authentication, data encryption, AI-based fraud detection, and more. New laws, such as The Digital Services Act, have also been implemented to keep customer data safe.

Moreover, the Global Financial Stability Report also warns that the risk of big losses from cyber incidents is rising.

This risk is something that ecommerce businesses have been working to avoid.

2. Increased Adoption of Headless Ecommerce Solutions

Headless ecommerce has become a game-changer in the future of ecommerce. Unlike traditional ecommerce platforms, headless commerce separates the front end (what customers see) from the back end (how everything works) of your website. This approach gives businesses the flexibility to customize their storefronts without impacting the back end.

According to Attrock, businesses are recognizing the benefits of headless ecommerce. It allows faster site speeds, increased customizations, better user experiences, and easier integrations across multiple devices. It also makes it easier to add new features and updates to your website, helping you keep up with the latest trends.

This is in line with a recent Salesforce report stating that 76% of businesses agree that headless ecommerce provides more flexibility to enhance digital experiences.

Furthermore, businesses using headless architecture are growing into new sales channels faster, with 77% doing so compared to only 54% of companies without it.

The headless commerce market is expected to grow at a rate of 22.1%, reaching $5,528.5 million by 2032, up from $751.6 million in 2022. This shows how increasingly this approach is being adopted by ecommerce businesses to stay competitive and meet evolving customer expectations.

3. A Surge in Social Commerce Integration

Social commerce is already popular, but it's going to get even bigger by 2025. The chance to sell through social media is projected to grow three times faster than traditional ecommerce, reaching around $1.2 trillion by 2025.

By then, 20% of all ecommerce sales will come from social commerce, up from 19% in 2024.

As a result, creating engaging social media content will be essential for grabbing attention and boosting sales. With features like one-click checkout and live shopping events, social commerce will keep growing.

With this trend, ecommerce businesses are provided with new ways to reach customers where they already spend most of their time online. However, to leverage this trend, businesses have to use social media benchmarking to see how they compare to competitors and improve their strategies.

4. Growing Emphasis on Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices

The future of ecommerce is looking green. Businesses will continue to adopt technologies that support environmental sustainability in 2025.

Consumers are driving this change towards sustainability practices, with a 2023 Buying Green survey revealing that 66% of shoppers consider themselves environmentally conscious.

This means that online brands that reduce their carbon footprints, offer eco-friendly shipping, use sustainable packaging, and prioritize ethical sourcing will appeal to this growing segment.

For instance, the ecommerce brand AllBirds uses sustainable products to reduce its carbon footprint. They utilize wool, tree fiber, sugarcane, and Trino®.

If you want to appeal to these environmentally conscious consumers and boost your brand’s reputation, now is the time to go green and become an eco-friendly business.

5. Rise of Mobile Ecommerce and Shopping Apps

Mobile ecommerce and shopping apps are shaping the future of ecommerce. Mobile ecommerce sales have surged from $2.2 trillion in 2023 to an estimated $3 trillion by 2025.

This significant increase shows how crucial mobile shopping has become over the years.

As more people turn to their phones and tablets to shop, businesses have adopted a mobile-first strategy to succeed in ecommerce marketing and stay competitive. Mobile shopping apps and websites offer unmatched convenience, making them the go-to choice for many consumers.

These websites and apps offer fast load times, easy navigation, and secure payment options. Offering a smooth, reliable mobile experience will be a growing trend well into 2025.

6. Expansion of AI-Driven Hyper-Personalization

AI plays an integral role in the future of ecommerce. By 2030, AI-powered ecommerce solutions are projected to be worth $16.8 billion.

The use of AI tools will continue to grow, allowing ecommerce businesses to deliver hyper-personalized shopping experiences by analyzing customer behavior, making recommendations, and optimizing marketing strategies.

Thanks to data availability and smarter algorithms, AI chatbots, which Gartner forecasts will become a major customer service channel within five years, will continue to be utilized to efficiently handle customer queries.

The future of ecommerce will continue to rely on AI to build personalized experiences that boost customer loyalty. For example, Virgin Voyages partnered with Jennifer Lopez to launch Jen A.I., allowing sailors to create custom invites from J.Lo to drive cruise bookings.

7. Increased Use of Augmented Reality (AR) for More Immersive Shopping Experiences

AR will take the future of ecommerce to a new level. By 2025, one-third of American shoppers will have used this technology when shopping online.

AR lets customers try on clothes, see how certain furniture fits in their homes, or test makeup without leaving their houses. It makes consumers feel more confident about their purchases, effectively increasing purchase conversions by 94%.

Major brands like Lowe's already use AR for virtual try-ons and 3D views. For example, Lowe's Holoroom Test Drive lets customers test tools and equipment virtually.

Brands that adopt AR will provide engaging shopping experiences, reducing return rates, and boosting customer satisfaction.

Final Thoughts

The future of ecommerce is bright and full of exciting possibilities. Whether you already have an ecommerce store or planning to have one soon, these trends have a significant impact on how ecommerce businesses operate and how consumers shop.

Remember, the digital world is always evolving, and those who can keep up will reap the rewards. Staying informed and adapting to these changes will be key to success. 

So, get ready for the exciting changes ahead!

Reena Aggarwal

Reena is Director of Operations and Sales at Attrock, a result-driven digital marketing company. With 10+ years of sales and operations experience in the field of e-commerce and digital marketing, she is quite an industry expert. She is a people person and considers the human resources as the most valuable asset of a company. In her free time, you would find her spending quality time with her brilliant, almost teenage daughter and watching her grow in this digital, fast-paced era.

LinkedIn, Twitter

Share in the comments below: Questions go here

[hourglassit]

How to Overcome Security Challenges in Mobile App Development

Security is a critical concern in mobile app development, where protecting user data and ensuring app integrity is paramount. As mobile apps become more integral to our daily lives, from banking to health tracking, the need for robust security measures has never been greater. This blog explores common security challenges in mobile app development and provides actionable steps to overcome them.

Read more: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-overcome-security-challenges-mobile-app-development-ricac/

[ouijeveuxvoir]

The United States government, having built an expensive border wall to combat illegal immigration and smuggling, faces ongoing challenges as sophisticated underground tunnels undermine its effectiveness. In response, clandestine efforts are underway to bolster border security. Turning to Tesla Shield Technology, the government aims to deter unauthorized crossings by disintegrating individuals or vehicles attempting to breach the border from below. However, this technology inadvertently hinders US citizens seeking refuge during a significant natural disaster, as the formidable barrier proves insurmountable for many Americans attempting to flee the country. Kindly follow the provided link to view: https://tubitv.com/movies/100006606/borders

[kesarijournal]

Pakistan Selections 2024 & its perpetual tightrope destiny

In the grand theater of South Asian politics, Pakistan’s post-election scenario is shaping up to be less of a triumphal procession and more of a high-wire act over a pit of economic despair, political vendettas, and regional brimstone. As the newly minted government takes the stage, one can’t help but admire the audacity—or is it naivety?—of stepping into the limelight where the plot twists rival…

[dencyemily]

Crypto Heists Surpass $11 Billion, Prompting Industry-wide Push for Enhanced Security

The world of cryptocurrency grapples with a dual narrative of successes and challenges, as outlined in a recent blog post by Comparitech. While digital currencies showcase increasing value and creative applications, the persistent concern of security breaches and thefts remains a critical issue, with over $11 billion worth of cryptocurrency stolen to date.

The blog post delves into specific incidents, such as the $620 million heist from Axie Infinity's Ronin Network, which exposed vulnerabilities in the widely popular play-to-earn game. Poly Network experienced a $610 million theft, with a notable twist as the hacker returned most of the funds, and Binance confronted a $570 million hack. The blog emphasizes that beyond the monetary losses, these incidents erode trust in the digital asset space.

Additionally, the blog points to historical breaches, including a $547 million heist from Coincheck, revealing the dangers of storing large amounts of cryptocurrency in online "hot wallets." The multi-year saga of MT Gox, where $470 million worth of Bitcoin was stolen, underscores the industry's early vulnerabilities.

As the number of crypto heists rises, Comparitech calls for immediate action to ensure the safety of users' digital assets. The blog advocates for exchanges and platforms to prioritize secure storage solutions, conduct thorough code audits, and adopt best practices for user authentication. It also highlights the crucial role of regulators in establishing clear guidelines and enforcing standards to prevent further breaches in the evolving landscape of cryptocurrency security.

[soothsayersblog]

The border crossings from Mexico into the United States

The border crossings from Mexico into the United States have long been a focal point of complex and contentious issues. The dilemma surrounding these crossings is multifaceted, involving social, economic, and political dimensions. It is essential to approach this topic with a nuanced understanding, acknowledging the various factors contributing to the challenges faced by those attempting to enter…

[trendynewsnow]

Mark Rutte Emphasizes NATO's Defense Preparedness and Commitment to Ukraine

Mark Rutte’s Commitment to NATO’s Defense Readiness Recently appointed NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte emphasized on Wednesday that the alliance is fully prepared to defend its territory and is committed to increasing investments in defense capabilities. He stated, “NATO stands ready to confront any enemy, any adversary who attempts to attack us now and in the future.” Rutte further asserted…

[headlinehorizon]

Alert: House Homeland Security Chairman Warns of Dangerous Times in the U.S.

https://headlinehorizon.com/U.S./Terror/1341

Get the latest news on the House Homeland Security Chairman's warning about the dangerous state of affairs in the United States. Explore the escalating security challenges and potential threats, including cyber attacks and terrorism.

[outsourcingstaff1]

Addressing Data Security Concerns in IT Staff Augmentation Partnerships

In the realm of IT staff augmentation partnerships, data security stands as a non-negotiable priority, particularly when operating outside India. At iValuePlus, we recognize the critical importance of protecting your sensitive data throughout the IT staff augmentation journey. This blog delves into the pivotal role of addressing data security concerns and highlights how our HR generalist services contribute to a secure partnership.

Data Security Challenges in IT Staff Augmentation

For organizations venturing into IT staff augmentation, data security is a constant concern. Why is it so crucial?

Data Sensitivity: IT projects often involve handling proprietary information, customer data, or intellectual property. Any compromise in data security can have severe consequences.

Regulatory Compliance: Various regions have stringent data protection regulations. Adherence to these regulations is not just ethical but also legally mandatory.

How HR Generalist Services Enhance Data Security

iValuePlus takes a comprehensive approach to data security, integrating HR generalist services into our IT staff augmentation process.

Thorough Vetting: Our HR generalists conduct rigorous background checks and screenings of IT professionals, ensuring their trustworthiness and commitment to data security.

Data Protection Measures: We implement cutting-edge data encryption techniques and access controls to safeguard your information at every stage of the project.

A Global Commitment to Data Security

iValuePlus extends its commitment to data security beyond borders, recognizing the unique challenges of global operations.

Global Compliance Expertise: We stay well-versed in data protection laws and regulations worldwide, ensuring that your project remains compliant regardless of location.

Secure Collaboration Tools: We provide secure communication and collaboration tools, facilitating seamless interaction between your team and our IT staff augmentation professionals while maintaining data security.

Conclusion

In the pursuit of IT staff augmentation partnerships outside India, data security must always be at the forefront. At iValuePlus, we make it our mission to prioritize data security through meticulous HR generalist services and global expertise. Your sensitive information will remain confidential and secure throughout the partnership. Reach out to iValuePlus today to fortify your IT staff augmentation projects with unwavering data security.

[venusaur-propaganda]

Drawing Venusaur with every Pokémon pt. Manectric

[dhanasrivista]

How CISM Certification Prepares You for Today’s Security Challenges

In an increasingly digital world, cybersecurity is no longer an optional investment but a critical priority for businesses. Cyber threats evolve rapidly, from data breaches and ransomware to sophisticated phishing schemes and insider threats. As organizations strive to safeguard their assets, the demand for skilled security professionals has surged. One certification that stands out in this landscape is the Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) credential offered by ISACA.

Earning a CISM certification is more than an achievement — it’s a strategic move for IT professionals aiming to take on leadership roles in information security. This article delves into how the CISM certification equips you to tackle today’s multifaceted security challenges.

A Holistic Approach to Information Security

Unlike technical certifications that focus on specific skills, CISM adopts a holistic approach. It bridges the gap between technical expertise and business acumen, preparing candidates to design, implement, and manage comprehensive security programs aligned with organizational goals.

The CISM certification is structured around four critical domains:

Information Security Governance This domain emphasizes aligning security initiatives with business objectives. It equips candidates to establish governance frameworks that ensure security policies, procedures, and strategies support organizational goals. By understanding governance, CISM holders can balance security needs with business priorities, fostering a proactive security culture.

Information Risk Management Risk management is at the heart of modern security practices. CISM-certified professionals are trained to identify, assess, and mitigate risks, enabling them to prioritize efforts effectively. With the increasing sophistication of cyber threats, this knowledge is invaluable for ensuring that organizations are prepared for the unexpected.

Information Security Program Development and Management Building and managing robust security programs is a core responsibility of information security managers. This domain teaches how to design programs that address current threats while being scalable for future challenges. It emphasizes resource allocation, performance measurement, and continuous improvement, ensuring the security posture remains strong.

Information Security Incident Management In a world where breaches are often considered a matter of “when” rather than “if,” incident management is crucial. CISM-certified professionals are adept at preparing for, responding to, and recovering from security incidents, minimizing their impact on operations.

Key Benefits of CISM Certification in Addressing Today’s Challenges

1. Strategic Perspective on Security

CISM emphasizes a strategic approach, empowering professionals to think beyond day-to-day tasks. This perspective is crucial as organizations face advanced persistent threats (APTs), supply chain vulnerabilities, and regulatory complexities. CISM holders are equipped to create long-term strategies that integrate security into every aspect of the business.

2. Enhanced Risk Management Capabilities

Risk is inherent in today’s interconnected digital landscape. CISM professionals are skilled in identifying vulnerabilities and implementing mitigation strategies. This capability is critical for addressing threats like ransomware, zero-day attacks, and insider risks. By quantifying risks in business terms, they also secure executive buy-in for security initiatives.

3. Incident Response Expertise

Data breaches can cost millions of dollars and severely damage reputations. CISM certification provides in-depth knowledge of incident response processes, from detection to recovery. This ensures swift action during a crisis, minimizing damage and restoring operations efficiently.

4. Regulatory Compliance and Governance

With regulations like GDPR, CCPA, and PCI DSS becoming more stringent, compliance is a significant challenge. CISM-certified managers ensure organizations adhere to these standards while maintaining operational efficiency. Their governance skills also help establish accountability and transparency in security practices.

5. Leadership and Communication Skills

A unique feature of CISM is its emphasis on leadership. Security is no longer just an IT concern; it’s a boardroom priority. CISM holders excel in communicating risks, strategies, and solutions to executives, fostering collaboration and gaining support for security initiatives.

Real-World Applications of CISM Skills

Case Study: Managing Ransomware Risks

A medium-sized healthcare provider faced an alarming rise in ransomware attacks targeting patient data. The CISM-certified security manager implemented a robust risk management framework, conducted regular vulnerability assessments, and trained employees on recognizing phishing attempts. When an attack occurred, the organization’s incident response plan — also designed by the CISM holder — ensured minimal disruption and swift recovery.

Case Study: Ensuring Compliance in Financial Services

A multinational financial firm was struggling to meet evolving regulatory requirements. A CISM-certified leader aligned security programs with industry standards and automated compliance monitoring. The firm achieved full compliance ahead of deadlines, avoiding penalties and maintaining customer trust.

Career Advantages of CISM Certification

For professionals, the CISM Course and certification isn’t just a tool to enhance skills; it’s a career accelerator. With organizations prioritizing cybersecurity leadership, roles such as Information Security Manager, Security Consultant, and CISO are in high demand. CISM-certified individuals often command higher salaries and are recognized as trusted advisors in their organizations.

Moreover, the certification is globally recognized, opening opportunities across industries and geographies. Whether you’re in finance, healthcare, technology, or government, the skills and credibility CISM provides are invaluable.

Staying Ahead in a Dynamic Landscape

Cybersecurity threats evolve daily, and staying ahead requires continuous learning. Maintaining CISM certification involves earning continuing professional education (CPE) credits, ensuring that certified professionals remain updated on the latest trends, tools, and best practices.

Emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT) present new challenges and opportunities. CISM holders are well-prepared to integrate these innovations into security strategies while mitigating associated risks.

Conclusion

The CISM certification is more than a credential — it’s a gateway to becoming a strategic leader in information security. By combining technical expertise with business-focused insights, it equips professionals to address today’s complex challenges effectively. Whether it’s managing risks, ensuring compliance, or responding to incidents, CISM-certified individuals are at the forefront of protecting organizations in an increasingly digital world.

[marvelstoriesepic]

Poison of the Spotlight

Pairing: Security Guard!Bucky x Actress!Reader

Summary: Paparazzi have always been the part you hated about fame, but Bucky is there to shield you from the noise.

Word Count: 1.6k

Warnings: Paparazzi; media harassment; sensory overload; anxiety; themes of fame; public scrutiny; loss of privacy; protective Bucky

Author’s Note: As an actress myself, this was so interesting to explore. Thank you so much for the request, my love!! I hope you'll enjoy ♡

2k Drabble Challenge Masterlist | Masterlist

You’re not sure when the crowd doubled in size but the second the venue doors open, it feels like the damn has broken.

Flashes go off like lightning, rapid-fire questions are hurled from all directions, voices overlapping.

You hadn’t expected this. Hadn’t expected the sound of your own name to be swallowed by a hundred voices, spat back out like chewed gum, mangled and glittering and meaningless. You hadn’t expected the bodies to press this close, to squeeze the air out of your lungs with their questions, their cameras, their hunger.

You are smiling because you’re supposed to. Because the dress is perfect and the makeup is flawless and your publicist said just thirty seconds of poses, baby, that’s all they need.

But it’s louder than you thought it’d be.

Hotter, brighter, closer than it should be.

A voice - a thousand voices - explode around you and you can’t tell where they’re coming from. You flinch as someone steps too close, as someone shoves another forward to get the best angle.

But he is here.

“Back up!” Bucky’s voice is suddenly louder than anything else. Firm and sharp. His arm is at your back and you feel the warmth of his hand at your shoulder blades.

A flash pops too close. A mic nearly clips your cheek.

“Hey, back up” Bucky snaps again, voice inpatient.

His hand winds around your waist, his body moving in calculated lines, his face stony and jaw tense.

He maneuvers you expertly, weaving you through the growing knot of bodies with one goal in mind: get you out.

He moves like a storm and a wall and a prayer all at once. He says your name but not like them. Not like a transaction.

You’ve only had him as your bodyguard for a few months now, but somehow, he’s managed to become the only thing in your life that makes sense when the noise gets too loud.

He doesn’t talk much. Doesn’t ask for selfies. Doesn’t try to be your friend in the way most people do.

He just shifted in front of you without a word when you flinched at the flash of a camera the very first day. He noticed the way your hands shook after a press junket and handed you water before you asked. He called you by your name, not your character, not the headline version of you.

“Keep moving, sweetheart,” he now says quietly, calmly. As if he’s not being crushed by a wave of shouting strangers. “Just breathe. I’ve got you.”

You’re walking but you’re not walking - you’re being guided, steered, protected - his body forming a shield against the frenzied press of paparazzi. He’s bigger than you remember. Broader. He plants himself in front of you when the flashes come too fast. He catches your elbow instantly when you wobble in your heels, and you think he might actually tear someone apart if they touch you again.

You wonder if he can feel your heartbeat hammering under your skin.

You wonder if he hears the way your breath hitches in your chest.

“I’ve got you,” he repeats, close to your ear.

You press into his side without thinking, head ducked as he leads you through the mess as though he’s cutting through a warzone.

He’s saying things - short, clipped words to security, to crowd control, to the driver - and then suddenly, miraculously, there’s the car. The door swings open like salvation and Bucky helps you inside, tucking you in with careful hands.

You take a deep breath as if you’ve just broken the surface of the ocean.

Bucky slides in beside you and pulls the door shut. The windows tint. The voices vanish. You feel your heart crashing in your chest, blood singing in your ears, your throat tight and dry and useless.

You’ve always hated this part.

Not the acting. Not the scripts. Not the lights on set or the long rehearsals or the hours spent curled up in a trailer memorizing lines. No. You love that part.

You love disappearing into someone else.

But the moment the cameras turn on you - when it’s your name and your face and your body they want - everything inside you clenches.

Paparazzi have always been the prize of admission. And you’ve never stopped resenting it. They’re everywhere. Always everywhere.

Outside the airport. Outside your home. Outside your life. Their lenses are long-range weapons and their questions are landmines. You can’t move without being watched. Judged. Picked apart as if you’re a crime scene.

It’s not glamorous. It’s not fun. It’s not part of the job like they always say it is.

It’s invasive. Intrusive. Violent, in a way no one talks about.

Bucky is looking at you.

“Hey,” he says, so soft you nearly miss it. “You okay, doll?”

His voice is honey and gravel and everything safe. His brow is furrowed, the lines around his mouth carved deep with concern. He looks as if he’s ready to go back out there and dismantle the crowd with his bare hands.

“Yeah, I’m okay,” you answer in an exhale. “That was just-”

“Too much,” he finishes for you.

You nod. Or maybe you don’t. You’re not sure. You feel out of place for a second.

“I should’ve stayed closer,” he says, jaw tight, voice firm and guilty. “I usually- damn it- I didn’t like the layout tonight. Too many press zones. Too many exits. I should’ve pulled you sooner.”

You shake your head at him, almost confused. “You were perfect Bucky.”

He stills.

You see the glimmer of something behind his eyes, something quiet and careful and maybe a little touched, like he’s not used to being told that. As if he doesn’t know how to believe it.

“I brought your water,” he says, as if needing to change the subject. His voice is rough. “And the bar you like. The one with the chocolate and honey.”

He reaches for the cooler under the seat as if he’s done it a thousand times, as if he knew you wouldn’t have time to eat, as if he made a checklist in his mind and checked it twice before the night began.

You take it from him. “You didn’t have to, Bucky,” you say, voice a little weaker than you’d want. But it sounds thankful.

Bucky exhales. “Nah, I did,” he counters easily.

He nods for you to go ahead and drink, as if he doesn’t want to make a big deal out of it, but you see the way his fingers twitch, the way his shoulders don’t relax until you’ve taken a sip, taken a breath, looked at him as though you really are okay.

And you are. Because of him.

Because you’ve spent so long trying to armor yourself against a world that wants to consume you.

And then this man - this silent, serious, steel-spined man - walked into your life and made it his mission to be there for you. To make those situations as comfortable as they can get.

And maybe you fall a little in those moments.

Maybe you’re still falling now.

“I’m getting you something,” you say suddenly.

He blinks over at you, startled. “What?”

You turn toward him, straightening your back in your seat. “You’re always saving me. Protecting me. I need to thank you properly.”

Bucky’s ears go red almost immediately.

He shakes his head, gruff and sheepish all at once. “Nah, doll. You don’t have to do that.”

“I want to,” you counter fiercely. Fiercely enough that he genuinely looks a little shocked. “You’re the only reason I don’t lose my mind at these things.”

You see the way he swallows, the way he starts to shake his head, so you continue.

“I owe you something. I’m getting you- I don’t know, something big. A car, maybe. Do you need a new one? Or a vacation. You deserve a vacation.”

His eyes go wide. Wide and horrified and - bless him - so bashful.

“No- no, doll, you don’t have to-” he stammers, the words tripping over themselves like newborn deers. His usually so sharp cheeks turn the faintest, most beautiful pink. “You don’t have to do anything. M’ just doing my job.”

You stare at him. At the man who has blocked cameras with his body, shielded you from flying elbows, memorized the foods you like when you’re too stressed to eat.

You lean in, close enough to see the silver flecks in his blue eyes. Close enough to see his breath hitch.

“Let me spoil you a little, okay?” you press softly.

Bucky ducks his head as if he’s embarrassed. Mumbles something under his breath, eyes darting everywhere but to you.

“Come on, Barnes. You know you deserve it.” You smile at him, really smile, for the first time all night as it feels like.

Bucky releases an awkward, breathless laugh. And suddenly he doesn’t look so serious anymore.

Because you know that under all that steel and stubbornness and the wall he can be to shield you against the uncomfortable things of your job you can’t escape, he’s a real ass softy.

And you think, maybe the world outside can keep screaming.

Maybe the cameras can keep flashing.

Maybe the whole damn circus can keep spinning.

But as long as you have him, you'll be okay.