#network security experts

[netgleam]

Top 7 Cybersecurity Threats Every Business Should Be Prepared For

In today’s digital-first world, cybersecurity is no longer optional for businesses—it’s essential. Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics, targeting businesses of all sizes to exploit vulnerabilities and steal sensitive information. To stay ahead, companies must understand the most pressing threats and implement robust defenses.

Whether you’re a small startup or a large enterprise, hiring network security experts can make all the difference in safeguarding your assets. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top seven cybersecurity threats every business should prepare for and why you should consider hiring network security services to mitigate these risks.

1. Phishing Attacks

Phishing remains one of the most common and effective methods cybercriminals use to breach businesses. These attacks involve fraudulent emails or messages designed to trick employees into sharing sensitive information, such as login credentials or financial data.

Why It’s Dangerous: Phishing attacks are increasingly sophisticated, with convincing replicas of legitimate communication channels. Once attackers gain access, they can infiltrate systems or steal sensitive data.

Prevention Tips:

Train employees to recognize phishing attempts.

Implement email filtering solutions.

Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) to protect accounts.

Hire Network Security Experts to set up advanced email security protocols and train your staff.

2. Ransomware Attacks

Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts a victim’s data and demands payment for its release. These attacks can paralyze business operations, leading to financial loss and reputational damage.

Why It’s Dangerous: Ransomware attackers often target critical systems, leaving businesses with few options other than paying the ransom—which doesn’t guarantee recovery.

Prevention Tips:

Regularly back up data and store it offline.

Keep all software updated to fix vulnerabilities.

Install robust anti-malware solutions.

Hire Network Security Services to assess your vulnerabilities and implement proactive defenses.

3. Insider Threats

Not all cybersecurity threats come from external sources. Insider threats occur when employees, contractors, or partners misuse their access to systems, either maliciously or accidentally.

Why It’s Dangerous: Insider threats are harder to detect because they originate within the organization. They can lead to data breaches, intellectual property theft, or sabotage.

Prevention Tips:

Conduct background checks before hiring.

Limit access to sensitive data on a need-to-know basis.

Monitor user activities within your network.

By partnering with network security experts, you can deploy solutions like user behavior analytics to detect unusual activities.

4. Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) Attacks

DDoS attacks flood your servers or network with an overwhelming amount of traffic, causing disruptions and making your services unavailable.

Why It’s Dangerous: These attacks can cripple your website or applications, leading to lost revenue and frustrated customers.

Prevention Tips:

Use a content delivery network (CDN) to distribute traffic.

Deploy firewalls and intrusion prevention systems (IPS).

Monitor traffic patterns for anomalies.

Hire Network Security Solutions to set up robust defenses against DDoS attacks.

5. Malware and Spyware

Malware encompasses a range of malicious software, including viruses, worms, and spyware, designed to infiltrate systems, steal data, or cause damage.

Why It’s Dangerous: Malware can spread through email attachments, websites, or software downloads, often operating undetected for long periods.

Prevention Tips:

Install and update antivirus software.

Avoid downloading files from untrusted sources.

Regularly patch operating systems and applications.

By hiring network security experts, you can ensure your defenses are up to date and capable of detecting sophisticated malware.

6. Weak Passwords and Credential Theft

Weak or reused passwords are a significant vulnerability, making it easy for attackers to gain unauthorized access to accounts.

Why It’s Dangerous: Once attackers breach one account, they often try the same credentials across other platforms (a tactic known as credential stuffing).

Prevention Tips:

Enforce strong password policies.

Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA).

Use password management tools.

Hire Network Security Services to deploy secure authentication mechanisms and monitor for credential-related threats.

7. IoT Vulnerabilities

The Internet of Things (IoT) brings convenience but also introduces new security challenges. IoT devices often lack robust security features, making them easy targets for cybercriminals.

Why It’s Dangerous: Compromised IoT devices can serve as entry points into your network, exposing sensitive data or being used in botnet attacks.

Prevention Tips:

Change default passwords on IoT devices.

Isolate IoT devices on a separate network.

Regularly update device firmware.

With network security experts, you can secure your IoT ecosystem and prevent unauthorized access.

Why Hire Network Security Experts?

While businesses can take steps to mitigate these threats, the expertise of network security professionals is invaluable. Here’s why:

Proactive Protection: Experts identify vulnerabilities before attackers can exploit them.

Customized Solutions: They tailor security measures to your specific needs.

Continuous Monitoring: 24/7 monitoring ensures threats are detected and mitigated in real-time.

Compliance: Professionals ensure your business meets industry regulations and standards.

By partnering with network security experts, you’re investing in the safety and continuity of your business operations.

Conclusion

Cybersecurity threats are evolving, and businesses must stay one step ahead to protect their operations and reputation. From phishing attacks to IoT vulnerabilities, the risks are real and require a robust strategy to mitigate. Hiring network security services or network security solutions ensures that your business is prepared to tackle these challenges head-on.

If you’re ready to fortify your defenses, contact us today to learn how our network security experts can help safeguard your business. Don’t wait until it’s too late—take action now!

[paxtonvaldovinos]

Smart Home Solutions at Palm Beach Audio Visions

At Palm Beach Audio Visions (PBAV), we are passionate about delivering exceptional audio visual, home automation, lighting, and technology integration solutions for residential and commercial projects. From the initial concept to the final system deployment, we are dedicated to ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget while exceeding industry standards for quality. Our team of experienced professionals brings a wealth of expertise in the high-end market and a strong focus on building lasting relationships with our clients. Feel free to visit us!

[tecnolynxglobal]

Defending the Digital Realm: The Critical Role of Cybersecurity

In today’s highly connected digital age, cybersecurity has shifted from a secondary concern to a top priority. As cyber threats continue to rise in both volume and complexity, individuals, businesses, and governments alike face unprecedented risks, including severe data breaches, financial losses, and damage to their reputations. The need for robust cybersecurity practices has never been more pressing. With that in mind, here are some essential strategies to help safeguard your digital assets.

To start, encouraging the creation of strong passwords can motivate readers to take that critical first step in securing their accounts. A combination of letters, numbers, and symbols creates a powerful first line of defense against unauthorized access.

Phishing scams are another significant threat in today’s digital landscape. These schemes are designed to trick people into sharing sensitive information. By helping readers recognize the warning signs of these increasingly advanced scams, you can equip them to navigate the digital world more safely.

Additionally, emphasizing the importance of regular software updates and reliable antivirus protection is vital. These measures help close security gaps and bolster defenses against potential cyber threats. By stressing the necessity of strong passwords, a keen awareness of phishing scams, and the habit of keeping software up to date, we can significantly enhance our digital security.

Ultimately, knowledge and proactive measures are our best tools for safely navigating the ever-evolving cyber landscape. Remember, vigilance and awareness are essential to staying secure in today’s digital world.

[astuteconnect]

The Role of Innovative Strategies in Cultivating Food Security for Fostering a Sustainable Future

Food Security resumes to be a critical concern in the ever-changing world. With the world population on the rise and the climate encountering significant transformations, consumers must adjust to methods of food distribution, production, and consumption. Adopting forward-thinking and innovative strategies is essential to ensuring that every individual has access to an abundant supply of safe and nutritious food.

In this blog, let's dive into some of the cutting-edge techniques being employed to attain food security.

Smart Agriculture Technologies

Smart agriculture stands out as a positively favorable part of invention in the search for food security. This contains the realm of accuracy farming, which leverages cutting-edge technologies like IoT devices, GPS, and AI-driven research to empower farmers in optimizing their agricultural methods. Via detailed monitoring of targeted interventions and crop conditions, precision farming substantially improves efficiency and yields, paving the way for a more endurable and productive agricultural terrain.

Examples:

Satellites and Drones: Utilized for crop monitoring and real-time data examination.

Soil Sensors: Deliver straightforward insights into moisture levels, soil health, and nutrient needs.

Vertical Farming and Urban Agriculture

As urban populations continue to surge, there is an ever-rising urgency to fetch food production nearer to urban centers. In handling this challenge, vertical farming and urban agriculture appear as transformative answers. These innovative strategies harness the vertical space within urban areas to produce crops, usually using developed systems like aeroponics or hydroponics. By capitalizing on limited space, vertical farming, and urban agriculture revolutionize food production, confirming locally accessible and sustainable supply of fresh produce amidst urban landscapes.

Advantages:

Lessened Transportation Costs: Locally grown produce reduces the demand for long-distance transportation.

Year-Round Production: Controlled environments permit continued crop production.

Genetic Crop Improvement

Genetic transformation and CRISPR gene-editing technologies have huge potential for modification. These groundbreaking methods can revolutionize crop expansion by making varieties that show improved resistance against diseases, pests, and harsh weather conditions. By achieving these powerful tools, scientists can plan crops that provide higher yields and contribute to a more resilient and sustainable agricultural ecosystem. While the potential advantages of these technologies cannot be ignored, their moral implications are still being debated.

Key Points:

Drought Resistance: Expansion of crops that can flourish in dry circumstances.

Nutrient Improvement: Biofortification of crops with necessary minerals and vitamins.

Sustainable Farming Approaches

Preserving biodiversity and ecosystems is vital, and sustainable farming methods play a key role in achieving this objective. Adopting methods like agroforestry, organic farming, and combined pest management is necessary for keeping the delicate balance of the planet. These techniques not only contribute to food security but also protect the long-term health of the environment. By prioritizing sustainability, people can protect biodiversity, encourage flourishing ecosystems, and cultivate a future where both the planet and humanity can flourish harmoniously.

Practices Include:

Crop Diversification and Rotation: Improves soil health and decreases pest outbreaks.

Conservation Agriculture: Reduces soil erosion and enhances water retention.

Food Waste Reduction

As necessary as improving food production is, it is equally important to handle the matter of food waste. Lowering food waste has become an urgent concern, and creative strategies deliver promising solutions. By executing enhanced food storage technologies, improving supply chain management efficiency, and boosting consumer awareness via impactful campaigns, consumers can create significant strides in fighting food waste. 

These innovative techniques allow us to minimize the environmental influence of wasted food and ensure that helpful resources are used more effectively. By focusing on both waste reduction and production, people can make a more responsible and sustainable food system for the benefit of all.

Strategies:

Smart Packaging: Expands the shelf-life of perishable goods.

Consumer Education: Promotes reliable consumption and waste management.

Global Collaboration and Policy

Gaining global food security is a complicated work that necessitates coordinated policy efforts and international collaboration. Governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and the private sector must unite to allocate resources for agricultural research, launch conducive policies, and promote the exchange of technologies and knowledge. 

Focus Areas:

Trade Policies: Enabling fair trade practices to assure global food distribution.

Climate Shift Mitigation: Policies desired to decrease the influence of agriculture on climate transformation.

In Conclusion

Assuring global food security is a complicated job that needs the united efforts of non-governmental organizations (NGOs), governments, and the private sector. To accomplish this, these stakeholders must cooperate and launch policies that support food security, assign resources towards agricultural research, and encourage the exchange of technologies and knowledge.

[motaleb-sujon]

[oaksgrove]

The Codebreaker

pairing: Platonic!Task Force 141 x Reader

synopsys: You had always kept your distance from the team—focused, distant, and hidden behind a mask. But when a mission goes wrong and you get gravely injured, the team is forced to confront what they’ve never seen: the person behind the mask.

warnings: Angst, injury, near-death experience, trust issues, emotional tension, some swearing, Ghost being protective, emotional revelations, Ghost and Reader’s situationship…

word count: 1798

No one in the 141 knew much about Phantom.

You were a ghost among ghosts, a shadow wrapped in tactical gear. A tech expert, the best they’d ever seen—able to slice through encrypted networks like butter, reroute enemy drones mid-air, and turn any battlefield into a controlled digital playground. If the mission required intel, misdirection, or cyber sabotage, Phantom had it covered before anyone even finished asking.

But off the field?

You blended into the background, as if you were part of the walls. Not unfriendly, just… distant. Spoke only when necessary, never rude but always concise. Answered when asked, nodded when acknowledged, but never lingered in conversations longer than needed.

You weren’t cold, just hard to grasp.

A constant presence but never the center of attention.

The others noticed, of course.

Soap had once muttered to Gaz, "He doesn't take up space."

And he was right.

You never interrupted, never inserted yourself into banter or stories. When you were in the room, you were invisible in a way that had nothing to do with their tactical skills. You occupied the corner of the rec room with a laptop, earbuds in, or sat with a sudoku book in your hands, solving puzzles in complete silence. Always listening but never there in the way the others were.

Even in base, You never exposed their face or body. Gear came off only in private, always ensuring no one caught so much as a glimpse of skin. High-collared undershirts, gloves, layers—never a stray detail out of place.

The team accepted it without question.

Phantom, how you were called, was an expert at keeping unknown.

And everyone just assumed you were a man.

Soap had tried, on multiple occasions, to break through that quiet shell, determined to make some kind of dent.

"Do you ever relax, Phantom?"

"I’m relaxed now."

"Christ, mate, that’s sad."

Phantom hadn’t reacted, just kept solving their sudoku puzzle.

Gaz had once thrown a pack of gum at you during a mission debrief, just to see if you’d catch it without looking. You had, effortlessly, then tossed it back without a word.

Price trusted you without hesitation. He never questioned the silence, never pushed for more than they were willing to give. If Phantom said something was secure, it was secure. If Phantom gave a time frame, Phantom met it.

And Ghost?

Ghost understood you in a way the others didn’t. He never pried, never asked. He knew what it was like to live behind a mask, to carry a name that wasn’t really a name.

Phantom wasn’t close to the team—not in the way they were with each other. But they were part of it. A constant presence, woven into the unit’s rhythm.

And that was enough.

Until the mission where everything fell apart.

"We’re in and out. Quick, clean, no unnecessary noise" Price said, voice steady as he laid out the plan.

A cartel base deep in hostile territory. High-value intel buried in their systems, locked behind multiple layers of encryption. The team needed Phantom to get in, extract the files, and be out before anyone knew they were there.

Easy.

For them, at least.

"I’ll crack their network before we breach," You said, tapping at your wrist console. "Should have access to their security feed before we even hit the ground."

Price nodded. "Ghost, Soap—you’ll be Phantom’s cover. Gaz and I will clear the outer perimeter. We move fast. Any questions?"

No one spoke.

"Good. Wheels up in ten."

Phantom did a final check of their gear, making sure their mask was secure, their gloves snug against their fingers. The mission was simple.

They’d done riskier ops before.

So why did something feel… off?

The op started smoothly.

You breached the cartel’s network before your boots even hit the ground, feeding the enemy false security reports and rerouting camera feeds. The team moved through the compound like shadows, taking down targets with ruthless efficiency.

They reached the objective with zero complications.

Too easy.

You worked fast, fingers flying across their portable console as they pulled the files. They barely glanced up when Ghost muttered, "Make it quick."

A few more keystrokes—then a small confirmation beep.

"Got it."

Price’s voice came through comms. "Extraction point secure. Move."

And that’s when everything went to hell.

The moment they stepped outside, the alarms blared.

"Shite," Soap cursed.

Your blood went cold. "That’s not me. I disabled their systems—"

Gunfire erupted before they could finish the sentence.

The cartel had known they were coming.

A goddamn trap.

"Move!" Price barked, his voice sharp through comms.

The team pushed forward, cutting through enemies as they raced toward the extraction point. You stayed low, recalibrating your wrist console to jam the cartel’s reinforcements.

Everyone was so focused on the fight that they didn’t see the sniper.

Not until it was too late.

A sharp, searing pain tore through your chest.

You staggered, breath catching, as your body folded under the impact. Their gloved hand pressed to their vest, but it was already warm, slick. Blood. Too much of it.

Distantly, you heard Soap’s frantic voice through comms.

"Sniper! Tech's hit—shit, they’re down!"

Boots pounded against the ground—Ghost, closing in fast.

"Stay with me, mate," he ordered, voice tight as he dropped beside them. "Keep your eyes open."

You tried, really tried, but breathing wasn’t working right.

Every inhale rattled, wet and sharp, drowning them from the inside. Panic clawed at their ribs.

Ghost’s hands were on their mask.

"Gotta get this off," he muttered.

A sharp pocket knife was pulled from his belt—a sleek line drawn across your mask—then cool air hit your face.

Ghost froze.

His expression shifted—something unreadable flickering behind his eyes.

And then you blacked out.

When you woke up, you felt like drowning.

Pain swallowed you whole.

It was the first thing you felt, the first thing that told you—you were alive. It burned, sharp and relentless, twisting inside your ribs like a serrated knife. Every breath rattled, wet and broken, lungs struggling to work through the thick haze of agony.

Something beeped steadily nearby. The scent of antiseptic clung to the air, cold and sterile. The weight of blankets pressed down on you, too heavy, too confining.

Hospital.

Your fingers twitched weakly, brushing against the IV in your arm. The world blurred and steadied, the dull light above flickering as you forced your gaze to shift.

You turn your head sluggishly, and that’s when you saw them—you weren't alone.

Price, Ghost, Gaz, and Soap.

They stood around your bed, too still, too silent.

Their usual confidence, their sharp-edged ease—gone. In its place was something heavier. Something unfamiliar.

"How bad?" you rasped.

Soap let out a breath—sharp, unsteady. "You almost died, lass."

Lass.

The word lodged deep, piercing more than the bullet had.

Right, they knew now.

Something cold curled in your stomach.

Price’s voice broke through the heavy quiet. "Shot went through your lung. We barely got you out."

You swallowed, gaze fixed on the IV in your arm. "It doesn’t change anything."

A scoff. Bitter. Tired. Ghost.

"Yeah, it does."

The words weren’t sharp. They weren’t a reprimand, or an accusation.

They were quiet. Weighted.

Gaz ran a hand down his face, exhaling hard. "Bloody hell, Phantom. We didn’t know what to think."

They were still processing it. Still recalibrating everything they thought they knew. Phantom could see it in their faces—the way their eyes traced over her now, like they were seeing her for the first time. Like they were realizing how much they didn’t know.

"Should’ve told us," Price murmured, not unkindly.

Not a command. Not even a question. Just… something else. Something you didn’t know how to name.

You wet your cracked lips. "Would it have made a difference?"

Ghost’s jaw tightened, gaze darkening. "You wouldn’t have been bleeding out on the ground with a mask suffocating you."

Silence.

Cold. Heavy.

Soap let out a breath, rubbing a hand over his face. He looked… lost. Frustrated. "Do you even trust us?"

The question settled like a weight on your chest.

Did you?

You had spent years making sure no one got close enough to ask. It had always been easier that way—no questions, no attachments, no complications.

You opened your mouth.

Then closed it.

Price’s voice was quieter now, steady. "Look, we’re not mad. We just—" He exhaled, shaking his head. "We care, kid. That’s all."

Gaz nodded. "You’re family, Phantom."

Family.

The word dug into your ribs like shrapnel.

Your fingers curled into the stiff fabric of the blanket, lungs too tight, throat raw.

Soap sighed, rubbing his temples. "Christ, lass. We thought we lost you." His voice cracked. Barely noticeable. But it still struck like a bullet between your ribs.

Ghost was silent. Arms crossed, shoulders tense. His usual unreadable mask firmly in place—except for the way his fingers twitched against his sleeve.

Like he was holding something back.

Like he was holding himself together.

You weren’t used to this.

Weren’t used to people giving a damn about whether you came back or not.

"I’m here," you muttered, unsure if it was meant to reassure them or yourself.

Ghost’s eyes stayed on you, unreadable but piercing.

"Yeah," Ghost murmured. "Barely."

You wanted to joke, to brush it off, but there was no dodging this.

Not when you had seen the way they’d looked at you the moment you woke up.

Not when the usual mate had been replaced by lass and she.

Soap let out a dry laugh, shaking his head. "Y’know, I should’ve guessed. You were always too fuckin’ quiet. The real mystery is how we didn’t clock it sooner."

You raised a brow. "Because I made sure you didn’t."

Soap huffed. "Aye, well, I’m starting to think we should’ve pried a little harder."

"You would’ve gotten nowhere," you muttered.

"Yeah, I’m getting that."

There was a long pause, thick with something unspoken.

Then, Ghost shifted closer, standing at the side of the bed. "You’re one of us, Phantom." The words were calm, certain. "Doesn’t matter what’s under the mask. Never did."

Your throat tightened.

Price sighed, stepping forward and placing a careful hand on your shoulder—solid, grounding. "We’ve got your six, Phantom. Always."

Gaz nudged your foot lightly, the closest thing to a brotherly shove he could manage with you stuck in a hospital bed. "Next time, don’t scare the shit out of us, yeah?"

You exhaled a soft, tired laugh. "No promises."

Soap groaned. "Jesus. We’re doomed."

Laughter rippled through the room, something lighter breaking through the tension.

You let your eyes drift over them—these men who had been her teammates, her squadmates, but were now something else entirely.

Family.

It still felt foreign. 

strange even.

But maybe, just maybe…

You could learn to live with it.

taglist: @honestlymassivetrash @pythonmoth

[dreaminginthedeepsouth]

Like her or not, we're now on the same side and this woman knows what she's talking about. She suggests actionable steps steps we must take to win ourcountry back from the fascists.

From Liz Cheney

Dear Democratic Party,

I need more from you. You keep sending emails begging for $15,while we’re watching fascism consolidate power in real time. This administration is not simply “a different ideology.” It is a coordinated, authoritarian machine — with the Supreme Court, the House, the Senate, and the executive pen all under its control. And you? You’re still asking for decorum and donations. WTF. That won’t save us. I don’t want to hear another polite floor speech. I want strategy. I want fire. I want action so bold it shifts the damn news cycle — not fits inside one. Every time I see something from the DNC, it’s asking me for funds.

Surprise. Those of us who donate don’t want to keep sending money just to watch you stand frozen as the Constitution goes up in flames — shaking your heads and saying, “Well, there’s not much we can do. He has the majority.” I call bullshit. If you don’t know how to think outside the box… If you don’t know how to strategize… If you don’t know how to fight fire with fire… what the hell are we giving you money for? Some of us have two or three advanced degrees. Some of us have military training. Some of us know what coordinated resistance looks like — and this ain’t it. Yes, the tours around the country? Nice. The speeches? Nice. The clever congressional clapbacks? Nice. That was great for giving hope. Now we need action.

You have to stop acting like this is a normal presidency that will just time out in four years. We’re not even at Day 90, and look at the chaos. Look at the disappearances. Look at the erosion of the judiciary, the press, and our rights. If you do not stop this, we will not make it 1,460 days. So here’s what I need from you — right now:

⸻

1. Form an independent, civilian-powered investigative coalition.

I’m talking experts. Veterans. Whistleblowers. Journalists. Watchdog orgs. Deputize the resistance. Build a real-time archive of corruption, overreach, and executive abuse. Make it public. Make it unshakable. Let the people drag the rot into the light. If you can’t hold formal hearings, hold public ones. If Congress won’t act, let the country act. This isn’t about optics — it’s about receipts. Because at some point, these people will be held accountable. And when that day comes, we’ll need every name, every signature, every illegal order, every act of silence—documented. You’re not just preserving truth — you’re preparing evidence for prosecution. The more they vanish people and weaponize data, the more we need truth in the sunlight.

⸻

2. Join the International Criminal Court.

Yes, I said it. Call their bluff. You cannot control what the other side does. But you can control your own integrity. So prove it. Prove that your party is still grounded in law, human rights, and ethical leadership. Join. If you’ve got nothing to hide — join. Show the world who’s hiding bodies, bribes, and buried bank accounts. Force the GOP to explain why they’d rather protect a war criminal than sign a treaty. And while you’re at it, publicly invite ICC observers into U.S. borders. Make this administration explain — on camera — why they’re terrified of international oversight.

⸻

3. Fund state-level resistance infrastructure.

Don’t just send postcards. Send resources. Channel DNC funds into rapid-response teams, legal defense coalitions, sanctuary networks, and digital security training. If the federal government is hijacked, build power underneath it. If the laws become tools of oppression, help people resist them legally, locally, and boldly. This is not campaign season — this is an authoritarian purge. Stop campaigning. Act like this is the end of democracy, because it is. We WILL REMEMBER the warriors come primaries. Fighting this regime should be your marketing strategy.

And let’s be clear:

The reason the other side always seems three steps ahead is because they ARE. They prepared for this. They infiltrated school boards, courts, local legislatures, and police unions. They built a machine while you wrote press releases. We’re reacting — they’ve been executing a plan for years. It’s time to shift from panic to blueprint. You should already be working with strategists and military minds on PROJECT 2029 — a coordinated, long-term plan to rebuild this country when the smoke clears.

You should be publicly laying out:

• The laws and amendments you’ll pass to ensure this never happens again• The systems you’ll tear down and the safeguards you’ll enshrine • The plan to hold perpetrators of human atrocities accountable • The urgent commitment to immediately bring home those sold into slavery in El Salvador You say you’re the party of the people? Then show the people the plan.

⸻

4. Use your platform to educate the public on rights and resistance tactics.

If they’re going to strip us of rights and lie about it — arm the people with truth. Text campaigns. Mass trainings. Downloadable “Know Your Rights” kits. Multilingual legal guides. Encrypted phone trees. Give people tools, not soundbites. We don’t need more slogans. We need survival manuals.

⸻

5. Leverage international media and watchdogs.

Stop hoping U.S. cable news will wake up. They’re too busy playing both sides of fascism. Feed the real stories to BBC, Al Jazeera, The Guardian, Reuters, Der Spiegel — hell, leak them to anonymous dropboxes if you have to. Make what’s happening in America a global scandal. And stop relying on platforms that are actively suppressing truth. Start leveraging Substack. Use Bluesky. That’s where the resistance is migrating. That’s where censorship hasn’t caught up. If the mainstream won’t carry the truth — outflank them. Get creative. Go underground. Go global. If our democracy is being dismantled in broad daylight, make sure the whole world sees it — and make sure we’re still able to say it.

⸻

6. Create a digital safe haven for whistleblowers and defectors.

Not everyone inside this regime is loyal. Some are scared. Some want out. Build the channels. Encrypted. Anonymous. Protected. Make it easy for the cracks in the system to become gaping holes. And while you’re at it? Stop ostracizing MAGA defectors. Everyone makes mistakes — even glaring, critical ones. We are not the bullies. We are not the ones filled with hate. And it is not your job to shame people who finally saw the fire and chose to step out of it. They will have to deal with that internal struggle — the guilt of putting a very dangerous and callous regime in power. But they’re already outnumbered. Don’t push them back into the crowd. We don’t need purity. We need numbers. We need people willing to burn their red hats and testify against the machine they helped build.

⸻

7. Study the collapse—and the comeback.

You should be learning from South Korea and how they managed their brief rule under dictatorship. They didn’t waste time chasing the one man with absolute immunity. They went after the structure. The aides. The enforcers. The loyalists. The architects. They knocked out the foundation one pillar at a time — until the “strongman” had no one left to stand on. And his power crumbled beneath him. You should be independently investigating every author of Project 2025, every aide who defies court orders, every communications director repeating lies, every policy writer enabling cruelty, every water boy who keeps this engine running. You can’t stop a regime by asking the king to sit down. You dismantle the throne he’s standing on — one coward at a time.

⸻

Stop being scared to fight dirty when the other side is fighting to erase the damn Constitution.

They are threatening to disappear AMERICANS. A M E R I C A N S. And your biggest move can’t be another strongly worded email. We don’t want your urgently fundraising subject lines. We want backbone. We want action. We want to know you’ll stand up before we’re all ordered to sit down — permanently. We are watching. And I don’t just mean your base. I mean millions of us who see exactly what’s happening. I’ve only got 6,000 followers — but the groups I’m in? The networks I touch? Over a quarter million. Often when I speak, it echoes. But when we ALL speak, it ROARS with pressure that will cause change. We need to be deafening. You still have a chance to do something historic. To be remembered for courage, not caution. To go down as the party that didn’t just watch the fall — but fought the hell back with everything they had.

But the clock is ticking.

And the deportation buses are idling.

* * * *

UPDATE AND NOTE:

I have received (what seems like) several hundred copies of a document allegedly authored by Liz Cheney entitled, “Democrats, I need more from you.” The “letter” was not authored by Cheney, but by someone who does not appear to have a readily identifiable profile as a pro-democracy activist. The purported author, “Dr. Pru Lee,” may not be the real identity of the author.

Setting aside the mysterious source of the letter, it has struck a chord with many Democrats. Indeed, many of the copies forwarded to me are accompanied by emails that express some sense of satisfaction that the author has criticized the Democratic Party for its failures and laid out a sensible plan for a path forward.

I suspect the letter was written by a Democratic consultant or insider who is upset with the progressive wing of the party and/or the grassroots movement. The author says, in part,

Yes, the tours around the country? Nice. The speeches? Nice. The clever congressional clapbacks? Nice. That was great for giving hope. Now we need action Don’t just send postcards. Send resources.

Many of the “recommendations” in the letter aren’t realistic—either in a reasonable timeframe or ever. For example, the letter demands the Democratic Party

Form an independent, civilian-powered investigative coalition. Deputize the resistance. Join the International Criminal Court. Fund state-level resistance infrastructure. Stop campaigning. You [the Democratic Party] should be publicly laying out: • The laws and amendments you’ll pass to ensure this never happens again • The systems you’ll tear down and the safeguards you’ll enshrine • The plan to hold perpetrators of human atrocities accountable.

I endorse the author’s passion and understand how the author has managed to channel the anger of rank-and-file Democrats toward their party. But it simply isn’t productive or helpful during this moment of crisis to devote our resources to attacking the Democratic Party.

Here’s a thought experiment: If you have forwarded the above letter to your closest one hundred friends and relatives, try drafting a sequel that begins, “Dear Republicans, I need more from you . . . .”

The virtue of the “Dear Republicans” version of the letter is that it shifts the focus to where it belongs: On those who are enabling Trump, rather than on those who are resisting him.

Is the resistance perfect? No. Is the Democratic Party perfect? No. Are congressional Democrats perfect? No. But compared to their Republican counterparts, Democrats look like heroes of democracy, warts and all.

Democrats aren’t the problem. They are the solution. Be part of the solution. We can sort out the credits and debits after we reclaim democracy!

[Robert B. Hubbell]

[cryptosocialnetwork]

Focus.xyz – Redefining the Creator Economy with Web3

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1. 100% Creator Revenue: No Cuts, No Catch. Say goodbye to heavy platform fees. With Focus, creators keep 100% of their earnings, from tips and subscriptions to premium content unlocks and even custom token launches.

2. Post-to-Earn Model : Every post can earn you real crypto rewards. Focus incentivizes quality engagement—your content isn’t just liked, it’s valued. Some posts have earned up to $1,000.

3. Complete Content Ownership : p Your followers, your content, your rules. Built on a decentralized blockchain, Focus gives creators full control and ensures censorship resistance and permanence.

4. Private & Secure by Design Focus enables anonymous posting, end-to-end encrypted messaging, and decentralized identity. Engage with your audience without ever compromising your privacy.

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👉 Follow and earn: Post. Engage. Get rewarded.

[blueiscoool]

Hidden For 2,000 Years: UK’s Biggest Iron Age Hoard Unearthed

Iron age hoard found in North Yorkshire could change Britain’s history.

One of the biggest and most important iron age hoards ever found in the UK has been revealed, potentially altering our understanding of life in Britain 2,000 years ago.

More than 800 objects were unearthed in a field near the village of Melsonby, North Yorkshire. They date back to the first century, around the time of the Roman conquest of Britain under Emperor Claudius, and are almost certainly associated with a tribe called the Brigantes who controlled most of northern England.

The objects include parts from wagons and/or chariots including 28 iron tyres, elaborate harnesses for at least 14 horses, bridle bits, ceremonial spears and two beautifully ornate cauldrons, one of which was probably used as a wine mixing bowl.

Experts involved in the find, described as internationally important, say the objects may lead to a reassessment of how we understand subjects such as wealth, status, trade and travel among Britain’s iron age tribes.

The hoard was discovered and reported just before Christmas 2021 by a metal detectorist, Peter Heads, who got a reading, dug a hole and realised he needed expert help.

He contacted Prof Tom Moore, the head of archaeology at Durham University, who had been conducting research in the area. Moore saw right away the potential significance of what had been uncovered but had no idea it would be of such a jaw-dropping scale.

“Finding a hoard or collection of 10 objects is unusual, it’s exciting, but finding something of this scale is just unprecedented,” he said. “We were not expecting it … I think for everybody on the team, we were just lost for words.”

After securing £120,000 funding from Historic England, excavations took place in 2022, including the removal of one large block of tangled metal objects that may have been in a bag together.

Moore said the horse harnesses pulling the wagons or chariots were beautifully decorated with coral and coloured glass and, with the vehicles, would have been quite a sight. “They would have looked incredible,” he said. “It just emphasises that these people had real status and real wealth.

“Some people have regarded the north as being impoverished compared to the iron age of the south of Britain. This shows that individuals there had the same quality of materials and wealth and status and networks as people in the south.

“They challenge our way of thinking and show the north is definitely not a backwater in the iron age. It is just as interconnected, powerful and wealthy as iron age communities in the south.”

Keith Emerick, an inspector of ancient monuments at Historic England, said the decision to provide funding was agreed the same day Moore contacted him. “The scale of the find and the material in it is completely unparalleled in this country,” he said. “To have something like this from the north of England is really exceptional.”

He recalled seeing the objects laid out at Durham. “It was one of those wow moments really, just to see how rich and splendid and mind-bogglingly beautiful some of it is. It has been a once-in-a-lifetime find for everyone involved.”

Moore said the working assumption was that the high-status objects belonged to someone who was “probably part of a network of elites across Britain, into Europe and even the Roman world”.

A lot of the material had been burned, suggesting it may have been part of a funerary pyre for an elite person before being thrown in a ditch.

Moore said one of the most exciting parts of the discovery was the first evidence of four-wheeled wagons used by iron age tribes in Britain, possibly imitating vehicles seen in continental Europe. He said: “We’re going to have spend years thinking what did these vehicles look like, where did they come from?”

The Melsonby hoard has been valued at £254,000 and a fundraising campaign to secure it for the nation will be launched by the Yorkshire Museum in York.

Its discovery was announced jointly by Historic England, Durham University and the British Museum.

The heritage minister, Chris Bryant, said the hoard was an extraordinary find “which will help us to better understand the fabric of our nation’s history”.

Emerick said the find posed lots of interesting questions. Julius Caesar led the first Roman expeditions to Britain a century before Claudius’s invasion and the Brigantes would have known about them. “You kind of look at this material and ask is this people thinking about the end of something, or are they thinking about the beginning of something?”

By Mark Brown North.

[astrologydray]

…Pallas in the houses…

Pallas through the houses shows how and where your brain naturally sees patterns, solves problems, and defends what matters. It’s your built-in strategist, often working in the background through intuition, logic, or observation—this is the part of you that “just gets it.”

1st House – The walking strategist

You naturally read situations fast and lead with sharp instincts—people may feel like you’re always five steps ahead. Your mind and identity are fused; you can spot the game, make the move, and stay calm under pressure.

2nd House – The value-based problem solver

You’re great at figuring out how to make things last, make things make sense, or make money. You’re wise when it comes to worth—whether that’s self-worth, price tags, or how to build real security.

3rd House – The verbal pattern genius

You’re sharp with words, ideas, and reading the room—you could probably win a debate with your eyes closed. You solve problems by talking it out, explaining it clearly, or connecting dots no one else sees.

4th House – The emotional strategist

You instinctively know how people feel and how to protect what’s sacred. You’re the person who can sense emotional patterns in family, memory, or childhood dynamics before anyone else picks up on them.

5th House – The creative chess master

You use art, humor, flirting, or performance as tools to read and shift energy. You solve problems by shining your light in smart ways—and you’re great at making others feel seen or outwitted, depending on your mood.

6th House – The low-key expert

You’re a behind-the-scenes brain who knows how to fix, tweak, heal, and improve things quietly but powerfully. Your mind thrives in routines, systems, health practices, or jobs that require smart efficiency.

7th House – The relationship whisperer

You can see through people, understand dynamics instantly, and know exactly how to handle conflict without making it a war. You’re a master at reading between the lines in partnerships—business or romantic.

8th House – The emotional hacker

You’re psychologically sharp—you just know what’s going on under the surface. Your intuition is next-level, and you often solve deep, taboo, or emotionally messy problems like it’s nothing.

9th House – The big-picture thinker

You’re gifted at seeing patterns in belief systems, cultures, or worldviews. You solve things with a zoomed-out view—philosophy, teaching, spirituality, or calling out BS with facts and faith.

10th House – The public mastermind

Your wisdom shows up in how you move through your career, reputation, or leadership role. You’re seen as someone who “has it together,” because you apply smart strategies to your goals and grind.

11th House – The visionary connector

You’re brilliant in groups, ideas, or future plans—you just get networks, friendships, and what society needs. Your brain is wired for innovation and creating smarter systems for collective growth.

12th House – The intuitive mystic

Your wisdom comes from dreams, subtle energy, or divine downloads—you solve problems through gut feelings, not spreadsheets. You might not always explain how you know things… but you always do.

[pearlprincess02]

dating & dates (capricorn version)

capricorn: (capricorn venus/mars/5th house/7th house)

dating someone with capricorn venus, mars, 5th house, and 7th house placements means entering a relationship built on trust, stability, and long-term potential. they take love seriously and approach relationships with a sense of responsibility, always thinking about the future. while they may seem reserved or slow to open up, their love is deeply loyal, unwavering, and enduring. they prefer traditional courtship and value partners who show dedication, ambition, and emotional maturity. they don’t rush into love—they build it over time, like a strong foundation that can withstand anything. capricorn venus expresses love through actions rather than words. they may not be overly romantic, but they show devotion by being reliable, protective, and committed. they need a partner who respects their ambition and values long-term security over fleeting passion. capricorn mars approaches attraction with patience and control. they exude quiet confidence and prefer relationships where effort and persistence pay off. they don’t chase impulsively; they invest in people they see as worthy of their energy. capricorn 5th house enjoys refined, sophisticated forms of pleasure. they prefer classic dates, structured fun, and activities that align with their goals or personal development. they don’t waste time on meaningless distractions and prefer to engage in experiences that feel valuable or productive. capricorn 7th house takes partnerships very seriously, seeking someone who can match their level of commitment and maturity. they are drawn to dependable, hardworking partners and need a relationship that feels like a true partnership rather than just a romantic fling.

date night ideas

a weekend retreat at a cozy mountain cabin, hiking a scenic but challenging trail together, horseback riding through a scenic trail (capricorn venus, capricorn mars) visiting a historic landmark/museum, taking a cooking class with an expert chef, attending a classical music concert/opera, spending an evening at a private members-only club/speakeasy, exploring a prestigious art gallery/private collection, a private yacht/luxury boat ride, watching a film noir/classic black & white movie at a retro cinema (capricorn venus, capricorn 5th house) a fine-dining experience at a high-end restaurant, a wine-tasting tour at a vineyard, a quiet night at home with homemade dinner & deep conversation, taking a couples’ investment/financial planning class, an upscale rooftop dinner with a city skyline view (capricorn venus, capricorn 7th house) exploring an old, historic city & its architecture, going to a high-stakes poker/casino night, a whiskey/bourbon tasting experience (capricorn mars, capricorn 5th house) going to a networking event/business seminar together, attending a leadership/self-development conference together (capricorn 5th house, capricorn 7th house)

over 18+ spicy bonus 🔞

capricorn: (capricorn mars/cupido/eros/lust/amor)

someone with capricorn mars, cupido, eros, lust, and amor has a controlled, dominant, and deeply disciplined approach to intimacy. they may seem reserved at first, but behind closed doors, they have a powerful, almost relentless energy that builds over time, creating an experience that is both intense and unforgettable. they prefer to be in control, setting the pace and ensuring that every moment is executed with precision and purpose. for them, sex is an achievement—something that should be mastered, refined, and deeply satisfying for both partners. they are patient, willing to take their time to perfect their partner’s pleasure, and they value endurance over fleeting passion. while they may not be overly expressive about their desires, their actions speak volumes, showing an unwavering commitment to deep, long-lasting satisfaction. capricorn mars is dominant, structured, and in full control. they prefer a slow build-up, making every movement deliberate and calculated, ensuring their partner is completely at their mercy before giving in. capricorn cupido enjoys the thrill of earning someone’s devotion through discipline and patience. they thrive on anticipation, restraint, and the power dynamic that comes with seduction. capricorn eros approaches passion with depth, treating sex as something sacred yet intensely physical. they crave a connection that is both emotionally fulfilling and powerfully raw. capricorn lust is drawn to control, endurance, and experiences that push physical and mental limits. they have incredible stamina and enjoy testing boundaries in ways that feel deeply satisfying. capricorn amor sees intimacy as a serious and binding act, using it as a way to solidify deep, unshakable devotion. they prefer long-term partners who match their intensity and commitment.

kinks you might have

dressed-up, refined, & elegant seduction (lingerie, tailored suits, high heels), luxury settings enhancing intimacy (silk sheets, high-end hotels, candlelit rooms) (capricorn venus, capricorn cupido, capricorn eros) slow, calculated teasing that builds tension for hours (capricorn mars, capricorn cupido, capricorn eros) power dynamics (dominance & control, authority-based play), exploring submission through structure & discipline, delayed pleasure through strict rules/obedience games, hard-earned rewards after long periods of restraint, taking their time to strip a partner’s composure layer by layer, being fully clothed while controlling their partner’s pleasure (capricorn mars, capricorn cupido, capricorn lust) intense eye contact & quiet, authoritative commands (capricorn mars, capricorn cupido, capricorn amor) restrained passion (controlling pleasure, delayed gratification), long sessions with controlled pacing & slow, deep movements, heightened sensations through temperature play (ice, warm wax, heated touch contrast), endurance challenges (seeing how long they/their partner can last), sensory deprivation (blindfolds, muffled sounds, limited movement) (capricorn mars, capricorn eros, capricorn lust) silent yet intense displays of passion (biting lips, controlled breathing, subtle gestures), sex as a form of deep emotional bonding & commitment, a slow, intense power shift where control subtly transfers over time (capricorn mars, capricorn eros, capricorn amor) consistent repetition of deeply satisfying movements (mastering a technique through control) (capricorn mars, capricorn lust) traditional power roles (one partner in complete control, the other surrendering to discipline) (capricorn mars, capricorn lust, capricorn amor)

all observations are done by me !!! @pearlprincess02

main masterlist

[netgleam]

Unlocking Cyber Safety: The Importance of Network Security Services & Solutions

In today’s hyper-connected world, safeguarding digital assets is more crucial than ever. As businesses increasingly rely on digital infrastructure, they face escalating threats from cyberattacks, data breaches, and network vulnerabilities. To combat these risks effectively, organizations must hire network security services that ensure robust protection and seamless operation of their systems.

Why Network Security Matters

Cyber threats are evolving at an alarming rate, targeting everything from sensitive customer data to intellectual property. A breach can result in financial losses, reputational damage, and legal complications. This is where network security solutions come into play. These solutions encompass strategies, tools, and technologies designed to protect network integrity, confidentiality, and accessibility.

Comprehensive Network Security Services

A professional network security management company provides end-to-end protection, tailoring services to meet specific business needs. These services often include:

Risk Assessment Identifying vulnerabilities and potential threats to implement proactive defenses.

Firewall and Intrusion Prevention Implementing advanced firewalls and intrusion detection systems to block unauthorized access.

Data Encryption Ensuring sensitive information is encrypted during transmission and storage.

Endpoint Security Securing devices that connect to the network, such as laptops, smartphones, and IoT devices.

24/7 Monitoring and Support Providing round-the-clock monitoring to detect and mitigate threats in real time.

The Role of Network Security Experts

Hiring network security experts is vital for businesses to stay ahead of cybercriminals. These professionals have the expertise to design and deploy cutting-edge security solutions, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations. They help organizations maintain operational continuity while optimizing network performance.

Benefits of Hiring a Network Security Management Company

Cost Efficiency: Outsourcing to a network security provider reduces the need for in-house resources and minimizes the financial impact of cyber incidents.

Proactive Defense: Advanced threat detection systems ensure risks are identified and mitigated before causing harm.

Scalability: Solutions can be tailored to grow alongside your business needs.

Expert Insights: Gain access to the latest technologies and techniques through experienced professionals.

Invest in Your Business’s Security Today

Cybersecurity is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for every modern business. By opting to hire network security services, you can focus on core operations while professionals safeguard your digital environment. Whether you’re looking for advanced network security solutions or expert guidance from a trusted network security management company, investing in robust defenses today ensures a secure tomorrow.

Don’t wait until it’s too late—partner with network security experts to build a strong foundation for your business’s future. Protect your data, defend your reputation, and operate with confidence.

[paxtonvaldovinos]

Enhance Your Home with Lutron Smart Window Electric Shades

In the era of smart homes, window treatments have evolved far beyond traditional curtains and blinds. Lutron, a leader in smart home technology, offers a revolutionary solution with its Smart Window Electric Shades. These innovative shades combine advanced technology, elegant design, and user-friendly features to provide unparalleled convenience and comfort. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of Lutron Smart Window Electric Shades, how they work, and why they are a perfect addition to any modern home.

What Are Lutron Smart Window Electric Shades?

Automated window coverings, Lutron Smart Window Electric Shades, can be operated from a distance via voice commands, a tablet, or a smartphone. Thanks to the quiet and effective motors that drive these shades, smooth and accurate adjustments are possible. Lutron shades, which come in various designs, materials, and hues, may blend in with any interior design while offering practical advantages like light control, privacy, and energy efficiency.

Benefits of Lutron Smart Window Electric Shades

Convenience and Control: With Lutron Smart Window Electric Shades, you can easily control the amount of natural light entering your home. Using the Lutron app, you can raise, lower, or adjust your shades with a simple tap on your smartphone or tablet. Additionally, these shades can be integrated with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, allowing you to control them using voice commands.

Energy Efficiency: Lutron shades can significantly enhance your home’s energy efficiency. They automatically adjust based on the time of day and help regulate indoor temperatures. During the summer, the shades can be lowered to block out heat, reducing the need for air conditioning. In the winter, they can let in natural sunlight, helping warm your home and reduce heating costs.

Enhanced Privacy and Security: Lutron Smart Window Electric Shades offer increased privacy and security. You can schedule the shades to close at specific times, ensuring your home remains private, especially during the evening. Additionally, while you’re away, you can program your shades to open and close at different times to give the appearance that someone is home, deterring potential intruders.

Aesthetic Appeal: With many different materials, colors, and patterns, you may personalize these shades to complement your interior decor perfectly. Lutron offers solutions that can improve the visual appeal of any room, whether you prefer the sleek appearance of roller shades or the elegance of draperies.

Smart Integration: Lutron Smart Window Electric Shades integrate seamlessly with other smart home systems. This means you can create custom scenes that involve multiple smart devices. For example, you can create a “Movie Night” scene where the shades are lower, the lights dim, and your home theater system is turned on, all with a single command.

How Lutron Smart Window Electric Shades Work

Lutron shades operate using advanced motorized technology that ensures smooth and quiet operation. Here’s a brief overview of how they work:

Installation: Professional installation is recommended for Lutron Smart Window Electric Shades to ensure they are correctly fitted and integrated with your home’s electrical system. A certified installer will measure your windows, help you choose the right shades, and set up the system.

Control: Once installed, you can control the shades using the Lutron app, a wall-mounted keypad, or voice commands. The app allows you to set schedules, create scenes, and easily adjust individual shades or groups of shades.

Automation: Lutron shades can be programmed to operate automatically based on your preferences. You can set them to open in the morning to let in natural light and close in the evening for privacy. To maximize energy efficiency, sensors can also change the shades according to how much sunshine enters the space.

Why Choose Lutron Smart Window Electric Shades?

Lutron has pioneered smart home technology for decades and is known for its high-quality products and innovative solutions. Choosing Lutron Smart Window Electric Shades means investing in a reliable, durable, and stylish solution for your home. These shades enhance your comfort and convenience and add value to your property.

Lutron Smart Window Electric Shades are a fantastic addition to any home, offering a blend of modern technology and elegant design. With benefits ranging from improved energy efficiency to enhanced privacy and seamless integration with other smart devices, these shades provide a comprehensive solution for today’s smart home needs. Transform your home with Lutron Smart Window Electric Shades from Palm Beach Audio Visions! Experience unmatched convenience, energy efficiency, and elegant design. Control your shades with ease using your smartphone or voice commands. Schedule your consultation today and elevate your living space with cutting-edge bright window solutions!

[mostlysignssomeportents]

China hacked Verizon, AT&T and Lumen using the FBI’s backdoor

On OCTOBER 23 at 7PM, I'll be in DECATUR, presenting my novel THE BEZZLE at EAGLE EYE BOOKS.

State-affiliated Chinese hackers penetrated AT&T, Verizon, Lumen and others; they entered their networks and spent months intercepting US traffic – from individuals, firms, government officials, etc – and they did it all without having to exploit any code vulnerabilities. Instead, they used the back door that the FBI requires every carrier to furnish:

https://www.wsj.com/tech/cybersecurity/u-s-wiretap-systems-targeted-in-china-linked-hack-327fc63b?st=C5ywbp&reflink=desktopwebshare_permalink

In 1994, Bill Clinton signed CALEA into law. The Communications Assistance for Law Enforcement Act requires every US telecommunications network to be designed around facilitating access to law-enforcement wiretaps. Prior to CALEA, telecoms operators were often at pains to design their networks to resist infiltration and interception. Even if a telco didn't go that far, they were at the very least indifferent to the needs of law enforcement, and attuned instead to building efficient, robust networks.

Predictably, CALEA met stiff opposition from powerful telecoms companies as it worked its way through Congress, but the Clinton administration bought them off with hundreds of millions of dollars in subsidies to acquire wiretap-facilitation technologies. Immediately, a new industry sprang into being; companies that promised to help the carriers hack themselves, punching back doors into their networks. The pioneers of this dirty business were overwhelmingly founded by ex-Israeli signals intelligence personnel, though they often poached senior American military and intelligence officials to serve as the face of their operations and liase with their former colleagues in law enforcement and intelligence.

Telcos weren't the only opponents of CALEA, of course. Security experts – those who weren't hoping to cash in on government pork, anyways – warned that there was no way to make a back door that was only useful to the "good guys" but would keep the "bad guys" out.

These experts were – then as now – dismissed as neurotic worriers who simultaneously failed to understand the need to facilitate mass surveillance in order to keep the nation safe, and who lacked appropriate faith in American ingenuity. If we can put a man on the moon, surely we can build a security system that selectively fails when a cop needs it to, but stands up to every crook, bully, corporate snoop and foreign government. In other words: "We have faith in you! NERD HARDER!"

NERD HARDER! has been the answer ever since CALEA – and related Clinton-era initiatives, like the failed Clipper Chip program, which would have put a spy chip in every computer, and, eventually, every phone and gadget:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clipper_chip

America may have invented NERD HARDER! but plenty of other countries have taken up the cause. The all-time champion is former Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, who, when informed that the laws of mathematics dictate that it is impossible to make an encryption scheme that only protects good secrets and not bad ones, replied, "The laws of mathematics are very commendable, but the only law that applies in Australia is the law of Australia":

https://www.zdnet.com/article/the-laws-of-australia-will-trump-the-laws-of-mathematics-turnbull/

CALEA forced a redesign of the foundational, physical layer of the internet. Thankfully, encryption at the protocol layer – in the programs we use – partially counters this deliberately introduced brittleness in the security of all our communications. CALEA can be used to intercept your communications, but mostly what an attacker gets is "metadata" ("so-and-so sent a message of X bytes to such and such") because the data is scrambled and they can't unscramble it, because cryptography actually works, unlike back doors. Of course, that's why governments in the EU, the US, the UK and all over the world are still trying to ban working encryption, insisting that the back doors they'll install will only let the good guys in:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/03/05/theyre-still-trying-to-ban-cryptography/

Any back door can be exploited by your adversaries. The Chinese sponsored hacking group know as Salt Typhoon intercepted the communications of hundreds of millions of American residents, businesses, and institutions. From that position, they could do NSA-style metadata-analysis, malware injection, and interception of unencrypted traffic. And they didn't have to hack anything, because the US government insists that all networking gear ship pre-hacked so that cops can get into it.

This isn't even the first time that CALEA back doors have been exploited by a hostile foreign power as a matter of geopolitical skullduggery. In 2004-2005, Greece's telecommunications were under mass surveillance by US spy agencies who wiretapped Greek officials, all the way up to the Prime Minister, in order to mess with the Greek Olympic bid:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greek_wiretapping_case_2004%E2%80%9305

This is a wild story in so many ways. For one thing, CALEA isn't law in Greece! You can totally sell working, secure networking gear in Greece, and in many other countries around the world where they have not passed a stupid CALEA-style law. However the US telecoms market is so fucking huge that all the manufacturers build CALEA back doors into their gear, no matter where it's destined for. So the US has effectively exported this deliberate insecurity to the whole planet – and used it to screw around with Olympic bids, the most penny-ante bullshit imaginable.

Now Chinese-sponsored hackers with cool names like "Salt Typhoon" are traipsing around inside US telecoms infrastructure, using the back doors the FBI insisted would be safe.

Tor Books as just published two new, free LITTLE BROTHER stories: VIGILANT, about creepy surveillance in distance education; and SPILL, about oil pipelines and indigenous landback.

If you'd like an essay-formatted version of this post to read or share, here's a link to it on pluralistic.net, my surveillance-free, ad-free, tracker-free blog:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/10/07/foreseeable-outcomes/#calea

Image: Kris Duda, modified https://www.flickr.com/photos/ahorcado/5433669707/

CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/

[airosuiren]

Soo things you need t know before you read my new fic

A/N: This is a character sheet for my next fic that will be posted soon! Make sure to go through it for it (the fic) to make sense.

Edit: The FIC IS OUTTT!! Click here Part 1, Part 2 , Part 3 , Part 4, Epilogue

The Han Crime Family

A multigenerational, ultra-wealthy Korean mafia family running both high-society businesses and a cold, efficient criminal empire from Seoul. Everyone in this family plays a role

1. Han Byung-chul (한병철) – The Grandfather, Founding Boss

Age: 76

Built the family from nothing—started in Busan running docks, expanded to Seoul.

Traditional, ruthless, and respected like a godfather.

Lives in a fortified hanok estate in Gyeonggi-do.

Keeps the family in line through fear and legacy.

“Blood can’t be washed away. It gets passed down.”

2. Shim Soon-ja (심순자) – The Grandmother, Quiet Power

Age: 74

Never raised her voice, but made men disappear with a phone call.

Keeps a network of loyal housekeepers, drivers, and retired spies.

Trusted more than most of the younger generation.

Still pulls strings behind the curtain.

“People assume kindness is weakness. I encourage that.”

3. Han Tae-joon (한태준) – The Father, Current Boss

Age: 48

Cold, methodical, efficient. Took over at 38 after

Runs the family like a CEO, not a thug. Clean hands, dirt everywhere else.

shows affection to his wife and [Y/N], but watches everything.

“This ist a family. Not an organization with the same last name.”

4. Choi Eun-mi (최은미) – The Mother, Political Fixer

Age: 45

Ex-lawyer and daughter of a powerful politician. Handles bribes, scandals, and government ties.

More dangerous socially than anyone physically.

Keeps her kids close

“There’s nothing more useful than a grateful politician.”

The Children:

5. Han Jun-seo (한준서) – Eldest Son, The Reluctant Successor

Age: 26

Quiet, stoic, trained for leadership since birth.

Ivy League grad in business,

Keeps his emotions buried deep.

Has a scar from the top of his right eyebrow down till the upper lip

Due to his scar was called “ugly” and wears a mask but is actually very hot and is muscular.

6. Han So-min (한소민) – Younger Daughter, The Mastermind

Age: 23

Brilliant strategist. Specializes in tech crimes, psychological manipulation, and laundering.

Closer to her mother than anyone else.

“If they think I’m just the quiet one, good.”

7. Han Ji-yoon (한지윤) – Twin Daughter, The Firestarter

Age: 18

Reckless, bold, charming. Thinks rules are meant to be bent until they break.

Handles nightclub fronts and courier operations.

Wild card energy—Tae-joon fears she’ll get herself or someone else killed.

“I was born into chaos. I’m just playing the part.”

8. Han Ji-ho (한지호) – Twin Son, The Watcher

Age: 18

Quiet, calculating, always observing. Genius-level hacker and surveillance expert.

Speaks only when necessary. Possibly autistic, but never diagnosed.

Has dirt on everyone in the family, including his parents.

“I don’t fight. I expose.”

NEXT (The Spirits)

Yoon Ji-hwan (윤지환) – The Watchful Butler

Role (in life): Head Butler

Age at Death: 67

Specialty: Observation, estate history, subtle manipulation

Personality: Calm, cunning, fatherly

Ghost Form: Always in a crisp three-piece suit, gloves on, spectacles perched low

Quirk (in death): Can move objects like books and pens, often “tidies” rooms around [Y/N]

Quote: “Control is not about shouting. It’s about being the last voice in the room.”

Choi Mi-kyung (최미경) – The Silent Knife

Role (in life): Head Maid

Age at Death: 61

Specialty: Etiquette, internal politics, social warfare

Personality: Sharp, strict, maternal in a cold way

Ghost Form: Traditional hanbok with spotless apron, hair in a tight bun, eyes like razors

Quirk (in death): Can whisper directly into [Y/N]’s ear during formal situations

Quote: “You don’t need to be loud to be heard. You just need to be correct.”

Jung Tae-won (정태원) – The Iron Bodyguard

Role (in life): Head of Security

Age at Death: 54

Specialty: Close-quarters combat, protection protocol, intimidation

Personality: Blunt, loyal, battle-hardened

Ghost Form: Stands tall in black combat gear, faint scar over his jaw

Quirk (in death): Temporarily possesses [Y/N] to fight when she’s in danger

Quote: “Stand like you own the ground. Even when you bleed on it.”

Seo Min-jae (서민재) – The Ghost Blade

Role (in life): Head Assassin

Age at Death: Unknown (records erased)

Specialty: Silent kills, stealth, enemy profiling

Personality: Cold, cynical, loyal only to those who earn it

Ghost Form: Shadowy silhouette with crimson edge to his coat, never fully visible

Quirk (in death): Can possess [Y/N] in moments of violent danger, and uses mirrors to appear

Quote: “Mercy is a privilege. And I’m not in the business of charity.”

Kang Dae-shik (강대식) – The Chef of Memory

Role (in life): Head Cook

Age at Death: 72

Specialty: Traditional Korean cuisine, emotional imprint cooking

Personality: Warm, boisterous, nostalgic

Ghost Form: Apron over old hanbok, always wiping hands on a towel

Quirk (in death): Can possess [Y/N] to cook forgotten family recipes perfectly

Quote: “You can’t rebuild trust with words. But a bowl of soup? That’s a start.”

Next (The Servents)

Baek Woo-jin (백우진) – The Current Butler

Trained by: Yoon Ji-hwan

Age: 38

Specialty: Estate operations, diplomacy, damage control

Personality: Polished, discreet, dry-witted

Appearance: Always in tailored suits, silver-rimmed glasses, never flustered

Skills: Multi-lingual, masters-level etiquette, and blackmail collection

Relationship to [Y/N]: Treats her like a sovereign; makes sure she never lifts a finger unnecessarily

Quote: “If I do my job right, no one remembers I was ever there.”

Choi Mi-kyung (최미경) – The Current Head Maid

(Note: same name as the former head maid; a chosen namesake and spiritual heir)

Trained by: Choi Mi-kyung (Spirit)

Age: 30

Specialty: House protocol, staff loyalty, covert operations through domestic channels

Personality: Stern but soft-spoken, impeccably graceful

Appearance: Neat bun, pressed uniform, steady eyes

Skills: Internal intel gathering, poison detection, household espionage

Relationship to [Y/N]: Deeply respectful—sees her as the fulfillment of the legacy she was trained to support

Quote: “Clean homes, quiet halls, and no threats behind the curtains. That’s my job.”

Lee Hyun-woo (이현우) – The Current Head Bodyguard

Trained by: Jung Tae-won

Age: 35

Specialty: Close protection, strategic defense layouts, counter-surveillance

Personality: Stoic, commanding, lives by protocol

Appearance: Broad build, close-cropped hair, tactical calm

Skills: Krav Maga, long-range sniping, pressure-point immobilization

Relationship to [Y/N]: Protective in silence—often stationed outside her door even when not scheduled

Quote: “If someone makes it to her, it means I’ve already failed.”

Nam Ki-ha (남기하) – The Current Head Assassin

Trained by: Seo Min-jae

Age: 33

Specialty: Elimination, infiltration, trace-less disappearance

Personality: Ice-cold, dry-humored, loyal only to the Han bloodline

Appearance: Always in black, with a single ring he turns before each kill

Skills: Disguise, poisons, nerve strikes, terrain-based combat

Relationship to [Y/N]: Intensely respectful—calls her “my queen” in private briefings

Quote: “Everyone bleeds. The difference is who gets to stand after.”

Park Seo-jun (박서준) – The Current Head Cook

Trained by: Kang Dae-shik

Age: 42

Specialty: Heritage cuisine, performance cooking, emotional resonance through food

Personality: Warm, chatty, philosophical

Appearance: Rolled-up sleeves, apron dusted with flour, tattoos of peppers and fish bones

Skills: Psychological profiling through taste, speed prep under pressure, brewing comfort in silence

Relationship to [Y/N]: Treats her like a beloved daughter; often feeds her even if she says she isn’t hungry

Quote: “You can lie with words, but not with your appetite.”

A/N: Its confusing when you read it without this so i decided to post this just for clarification. The first Par will be posted soon

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Old Taglist: @trashlanternfish360, @nixxiev, @eclipse-msoul, @plsfckmedxddy, @viilan, @rattyrattyratty, @texas-fox, @1abi, @niamcarlin,@tomoyaki, @silken-moons.

[cognitivejustice]

Seed enthusiasts can be motivated by food independence or climate change resilience or just the desire to grow – and taste – a really great watermelon. But what ties them together, says Bevin Cohen, a leader in the heirloom seed movement who organized the expo’s seed swap, is the joy of joining with others to grow a better future.

And heritage seeds are particularly valuable for biodiversity, seed experts say. These types of seeds are naturally pollinated and have been passed down from one generation to the next, traced back for at least 50 years.

Rezha Macedonian peppers sit on a table at the National Heirloom Exposition in Ventura, California, Sept. 10, 2024. Rezha, which means “engraved,” references the distinctive lines that fill the long, spicy pepper. They are grown in small batches from heirloom seeds from North Macedonia.

Rebecca Newburn founded the Seed Library Network to help consolidate these efforts, with seed packets available everywhere from universities to neighborhood Little Free Library boxes. The interest, she says, has been “growing and growing” since she developed the idea in the late 2000s. Last year, more than 2,200 people from 35 countries registered for the online Seed Library Network summit.

“People come to seeds from different places and connect to them in different ways,” Ms. Newburn says.

Some growers are worried about climate change, she says, and want to test out varieties that might fare better in a hotter, drier, or wetter environment. Others worry about corporations controlling so much of the food supply.