Daily Drop (872): MS: Mile Island | GRU Unit 29155 | Crimson Palace | Twelve GRP | CN Cyber Arsenal | Grid-Scale Batteries | CN: Flax & Volt Typhoon | WHOIS | UNC1860 | Telegram |
09-22-24
Sunday, Sept 22 2024 // (IG): BB // ScraperDaddy // Cloud Email Harvester
Russian GRU Unit 29155: A Key Player in Hybrid Warfare and Covert Sabotage
Original title: A Russian Intel Unit’s Journey – From Hit Squad to ‘Geek Squad’
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Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): Unit 29155 of the Russian GRU is a highly secretive military intelligence unit responsible for carrying out sabotage, assassinations, and destabilization operations across Europe. Known for its involvement in high-profile attacks, including the 2018 poisoning of Sergei Skripal, the unit plays a pivotal role in Russia’s hybrid warfare strategy, combining covert actions with cyberattacks to weaken Western institutions and influence political outcomes.
Analyst Comments: Unit 29155 exemplifies the evolution of Russian hybrid warfare, blending conventional military tactics with clandestine operations aimed at destabilizing Western democracies. By orchestrating assassinations, sabotage, and cyberattacks, the unit operates with impunity, leveraging Russia's denial tactics to mask state involvement. Its activities have escalated geopolitical tensions, exposing vulnerabilities in European and NATO defenses, while underscoring Moscow’s commitment to asymmetrical strategies. The recent shift in command, with General Averyanov assuming new roles in Africa, indicates Russia’s ongoing ambitions to expand its influence globally, especially in regions destabilized by proxy warfare.
FROM THE MEDIA: Unit 29155 was first exposed in 2019, although it had been active for years, conducting sabotage, assassination attempts, and destabilization efforts throughout Europe. The unit has been linked to the 2018 Novichok poisoning in the UK, the attempted coup in Montenegro, and various attacks on NATO-affiliated infrastructure. Operatives, often trained in covert actions and explosives, carry out clandestine missions under false identities, infiltrating foreign nations for short-term assignments. Their operations, including cyberattacks, have targeted critical infrastructure, sowing political chaos and undermining trust in Western institutions, a key objective in Russia's hybrid warfare strategy.
READ THE STORY: The Cipher Brief RESOURCES: Wired // The Insider // The Register
Ukraine Bans Telegram for Government and Military Personnel Over Security Fears
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): Ukraine has banned the use of the Telegram app on official devices for government officials, military personnel, and critical workers, citing Russian spying risks. The ban follows concerns that Russia could exploit Telegram to gather intelligence and track users, posing a national security threat.
Analyst Comments: This move underscores the escalating cyber warfare in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Telegram's wide usage in both countries and Russia's potential to exploit vulnerabilities highlights the critical need for Ukraine's enhanced digital security measures.
FROM THE MEDIA: Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council enforced the ban after evidence showed Russian intelligence could access Telegram data, including messages and user locations. However, the restriction applies only to official devices, leaving personal use unaffected. Telegram, founded by Russian-born Pavel Durov, denies sharing data with any government. Despite the ban, Telegram remains widely used across Ukraine for both communication and information dissemination.
READ THE STORY: THN // Reuters
China's "Crimson Palace" Cyber Espionage Campaign Intensifies Across Southeast Asia
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): Chinese state-sponsored hackers have expanded their cyber espionage operations in Southeast Asia under Operation Crimson Palace. The campaign, led by three distinct clusters—Alpha, Bravo, and Charlie—is targeting government and public sector organizations to exfiltrate sensitive data and gain deeper control of critical infrastructure.
Analyst Comments: The resurgence of China's cyber espionage campaign in Southeast Asia highlights the country's strategic push to solidify its influence in the region, particularly amid rising tensions over territorial claims in the South China Sea. The use of advanced command-and-control (C2) frameworks, coupled with sophisticated malware and penetration techniques, suggests a significant increase in the technical capability and coordination of Chinese cyber operations. The persistence and adaptability of these clusters, even after countermeasures are deployed, illustrate China's growing reliance on cyber intelligence as a key tool in its geopolitical arsenal. As these attacks evolve, regional governments must enhance their cybersecurity resilience to protect critical infrastructure from ongoing Chinese cyber intrusions.
FROM THE MEDIA: Operation Crimson Palace has seen renewed activity from three Chinese-linked threat clusters—Cluster Alpha, Cluster Bravo, and Cluster Charlie—since 2023. These clusters are coordinating their attacks, using compromised government and public sector networks in Southeast Asia as command-and-control (C2) relay points. Cluster Bravo, linked to the APT15 subgroup “Unfading Sea Haze,” has been responsible for exfiltrating sensitive documents, keys for cloud infrastructure, and IT configuration data. Cluster Charlie, associated with APT41's Earth Longzhi, employs advanced C2 frameworks like Cobalt Strike, Havoc, and XieBroC2, enabling deep network infiltration and post-exploitation activities. Additionally, the attackers have adopted cross-pollination techniques, such as the use of DLL hijacking and the TattleTale keylogger, which allows them to evade endpoint detection response (EDR) systems and gather critical intelligence from compromised networks.
READ THE STORY: Grey Dynamics
Exploding Pagers Highlight Supply-Chain Security Risks in Lebanon
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): Exploding pagers in Lebanon, allegedly rigged by Israel to target Hezbollah, have raised serious concerns about global supply-chain vulnerabilities. The attacks, which killed 37 and injured over 2,300, underscore how adversaries can exploit international procurement chains to deliver deadly payloads. The incident intensifies discussions on reducing reliance on foreign technology and securing critical infrastructure against similar threats.
Analyst Comments: This incident reflects a new dimension in modern warfare where supply chains are weaponized, highlighting the urgent need for nations to safeguard their procurement processes.
FROM THE MEDIA: The attacks demonstrate the dangers of opaque supply chains, which adversaries can infiltrate and manipulate. Israeli operations reportedly placed booby-trapped devices within Hezbollah’s supply lines, involving connections from Taiwan to Hungary. US officials and experts warn that such vulnerabilities expose countries to severe risks, stressing the need for tighter control and tracking of critical technologies. The incident is also a reminder of past supply-chain attacks, such as Stuxnet, and raises alarms about potential future threats from nations like China, known for similar capabilities.
READ THE STORY: Claims Journal
Hacktivist Group "Twelve" Escalates Destructive Cyberattacks on Russian Entities
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): Hacktivist group Twelve, active since 2023, has escalated destructive cyberattacks on Russian entities using publicly available tools. Instead of seeking financial gain, the group focuses on encrypting and then destroying victim infrastructure. Their approach includes exfiltrating sensitive data and wiping out systems to cause irreparable damage.
Analyst Comments: The emergence of Twelve as a destructive hacktivist group represents a significant shift in the objectives of cyber operations amidst the Russo-Ukrainian war. With ties to the ransomware group DARKSTAR, Twelve appears to prioritize political motivations over financial gain, aiming for maximum disruption. The group’s use of widely accessible malware and hacking tools underscores the ease with which threat actors can carry out complex, highly destructive cyberattacks. Their strategy, reminiscent of past disruptive attacks like those attributed to Shamoon, is part of a growing trend where hacktivists target national infrastructure in the context of geopolitical conflicts.
FROM THE MEDIA: Twelve has been deploying a range of publicly accessible tools, including Cobalt Strike, Mimikatz, and PowerShell scripts, to execute its attacks. Kaspersky noted Twelve's affiliation with DARKSTAR, a ransomware syndicate, though their objectives differ significantly. Twelve’s operations often involve exploiting security vulnerabilities in widely used platforms like VMware vCenter to establish footholds, before deploying ransomware and wiper malware. These attacks typically involve credential theft, lateral movement via Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), and the use of backdoors like FaceFish. The group's use of wipers mimics previous destructive attacks aimed at rewriting master boot records, ensuring complete system failure.
READ THE STORY: THN
Iranian APT UNC1860 Facilitates Cyber Intrusions Across the Middle East
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): Iranian APT group UNC1860, likely linked to the Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS), serves as an initial access facilitator, providing remote access to high-priority networks in government and telecommunications sectors in the Middle East. Using sophisticated tools like VIROGREEN and TEMPLEPLAY, the group supports long-term network access for MOIS-affiliated actors.
Analyst Comments: UNC1860’s advanced techniques and partnerships with other Iranian APTs highlight Tehran’s increasing use of cyberattacks to assert influence regionally, particularly against key infrastructures.
FROM THE MEDIA: UNC1860 has leveraged vulnerabilities in web-facing servers, using custom frameworks and backdoors to penetrate high-value networks. With ties to APT34, the group has been involved in widespread cyber campaigns, targeting Iraq, Albania, and Israel. Their toolkit includes advanced malware controllers such as VIROGREEN, enabling precise post-exploitation activities like internal scanning and remote command execution. These tactics, combined with Iranian state objectives, demonstrate UNC1860's role in facilitating sustained cyber intrusions in the Middle East.
READ THE STORY: THN
China's Cyber Arsenal: APT Networks and Their Role in Global Power Expansion
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): China’s ecosystem of Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) groups, supported by state actors like the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and Ministry of State Security (MSS), plays a significant role in its global aspirations. These APT groups target critical sectors worldwide, engaging in cyber espionage, intellectual property theft, and disruptive operations as part of China's push for global influence.
Analyst Comments: China’s APT actors have proven to be a potent and growing cyber threat, especially as they integrate espionage, information operations, and kinetic cyber capabilities into the country’s broader strategic objectives. The PLA’s establishment of cyber-oriented units like the Strategic Support Force (SSF) and increased focus on developing offensive cyber capabilities reflect a long-term investment in disrupting Western infrastructure and gaining an edge in geopolitical competition. Looking forward, Chinese APT groups are expected to increase their focus on sectors like defense, healthcare, technology, and energy, potentially expanding into ransomware to blur attack motivations further.
FROM THE MEDIA: Chinese APT groups have long conducted sophisticated cyber operations targeting global critical infrastructure, industry, and government sectors. Since the early 2000s, China has leveraged cyber capabilities to enhance its military and economic strength, focusing on intellectual property theft and espionage. Key groups, such as APT1, APT10, and APT40, have been implicated in large-scale attacks against entities in the US, Europe, and Asia. With evolving cyber capabilities and growing geopolitical tensions, China is expected to continue using its cyber tools to challenge international rivals, particularly the US.
READ THE STORY: Grey Dynamics
Microsoft Secures Power from Three Mile Island Nuclear Plant to Meet AI Energy Demands
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): Microsoft has signed a 20-year agreement with Constellation Energy to power its operations with electricity from the revived Three Mile Island Unit 1 nuclear plant. Set to restart in 2028, the plant will support Microsoft's growing energy needs driven by AI infrastructure, while helping the company meet its climate goals.
Analyst Comments: Microsoft’s commitment to using nuclear energy signals a significant shift towards sustainable, carbon-free power sources to manage the increasing energy demand from AI technologies. The revival of the Three Mile Island nuclear plant is emblematic of nuclear power's resurgence, driven by its ability to provide consistent, zero-emission electricity. With the tech industry facing pressure to decarbonize amid rising energy consumption, particularly from AI and cloud operations, nuclear energy presents a practical long-term solution. This deal underscores the vital role nuclear power will play in balancing energy reliability and sustainability for the tech sector.
FROM THE MEDIA: Microsoft has inked a 20-year deal with Constellation Energy to source 800MW of power from the reopened Unit 1 at Three Mile Island. Set to come online in 2028, the plant will bolster Microsoft’s efforts to become carbon negative by 2030 while addressing the growing energy demands of its AI infrastructure. The plant’s reopening marks a milestone in nuclear energy’s resurgence, as governments and corporations seek cleaner energy solutions amidst rising power demands from emerging technologies. This deal follows broader U.S. government initiatives aimed at extending the lifespan of nuclear facilities to support a more resilient, emissions-free power grid.
READ THE STORY: FT
Exploring Grid-Scale Batteries Beyond Lithium: The Rise of Zinc-Bromine and Flow Technologies
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): As the demand for renewable energy storage rises, grid-scale battery technologies are expanding beyond lithium-ion, with alternatives like zinc-bromine flow batteries gaining traction. These alternatives offer environmental and safety advantages, especially for industries concerned about fire hazards and critical mineral supply chains.
Analyst Comments: The shift towards alternative grid-scale battery chemistries reflects a growing need for solutions tailored to specific industrial applications. Zinc-bromine flow batteries, like those produced by Redflow, address key concerns such as fire safety, sustainability, and geopolitical risks tied to critical minerals in lithium-ion batteries. The modular design of flow batteries and their recyclability make them ideal for long-duration storage, crucial for integrating renewable energy into grids. As governments and industries push for cleaner energy, such alternatives are expected to complement and, in some cases, rival lithium-ion in both performance and cost-effectiveness.
FROM THE MEDIA: Companies like Redflow and CMBlu Energy are pioneering alternatives to lithium-ion batteries, which dominate the grid-scale energy storage market. Redflow’s zinc-bromine flow batteries offer fire resistance, affordability, and sustainability by avoiding critical minerals like cobalt and lithium. These batteries can be easily maintained, and their components are fully recyclable. Flow batteries store energy in liquid electrolytes, making them ideal for industrial applications. With growing interest in these technologies, new markets—ranging from grid-connected systems to energy-intensive industries—are beginning to adopt them, providing safer, longer-duration energy storage solutions.
READ THE STORY: arsTECHNICA
Chinese Hacking Groups Threaten U.S. Critical Infrastructure
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): A Chinese state-backed hacking group, Flax Typhoon, is targeting U.S. infrastructure, raising fears about China’s ability to disrupt essential systems. The FBI has recently seized thousands of malware-infected devices, but concerns persist as these groups continue to evolve.
Analyst Comments: China's cyber-espionage campaigns against the U.S. have escalated, with Flax Typhoon representing a growing threat to critical infrastructure. The ability to infiltrate key systems—such as routers, firewalls, and IoT devices—poses a dual risk of intelligence-gathering and potentially crippling cyberattacks. China's cyber tactics reflect a broader strategy to undermine U.S. security, particularly as tensions rise over Taiwan. Historically, China's involvement in cyber warfare has evolved from economic espionage to attacks with far-reaching geopolitical implications.
FROM THE MEDIA: The FBI and security researchers have identified Flax Typhoon, a China-backed hacking group, as responsible for infecting over 260,000 devices globally. The botnet primarily targets U.S. and Taiwanese organizations, particularly those involved in defense, telecommunications, and government sectors. Despite some successful efforts to disrupt their operations, experts warn that this group—and others like Volt Typhoon—pose a persistent threat. Their operations align with China's broader strategy to create vulnerabilities in U.S. infrastructure, particularly as tensions over Taiwan's sovereignty intensify.
READ THE STORY: AXIOS
Google Urges End of WHOIS for Domain Verifications in TLS Certificates
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): Google proposes halting the use of WHOIS data to verify domain ownership in TLS certificates after researchers exposed a major security vulnerability. This vulnerability allows malicious actors to fraudulently obtain certificates through fake WHOIS records.
Analyst Comments: The integrity of TLS certificates is fundamental to online security, and relying on WHOIS data—often outdated or unreliable—leaves a critical vulnerability. The exposure of fraudulent certificates for .mobi domains reveals the ease with which attackers can exploit this system. With major players like Google and Amazon pushing for reform, this could mark a significant shift in how domain verifications are handled, promoting stronger cybersecurity standards. The transition from WHOIS to more secure protocols such as the Registration Data Access Protocol (RDAP) may resolve these risks but could also present logistical challenges for entities heavily dependent on the existing system.
FROM THE MEDIA: Security firm watchTowr revealed that threat actors could create fake WHOIS servers to manipulate domain verification processes, leading to unauthorized TLS certificates for domains they don't own. Google has proposed a November 2024 deadline to end the reliance on WHOIS for domain verifications, but industry responses suggest this may be too hasty. Amazon and other stakeholders advocate for more time to transition away from WHOIS, pointing out the deep reliance on email verification tied to WHOIS records in many automated systems. DigiCert has proposed replacing WHOIS with RDAP to enhance security and prevent future abuses.
READ THE STORY: arsTECHNICA
Abrdn to Exclude China from Emerging Markets Fund Amid Shifting Investor Preferences
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): Investment manager Abrdn is removing China from its Emerging Markets Sustainable Equity fund, relaunching it as the Emerging Markets Ex China fund. This move is aimed at providing more flexibility to investors amid China’s underperformance and rising interest in other emerging markets.
Analyst Comments: Abrdn's decision to exclude China from its fund underscores the shifting sentiment among global investors, driven by China’s weak market performance and growing concerns over risks such as regulatory volatility and ESG factors. While some investors see opportunities in undervalued Chinese stocks, there is rising interest in diversifying portfolios across broader emerging markets. This trend reflects a rebalancing of growth expectations, with countries like India gaining traction as attractive alternatives. The growing number of ex-China funds signals a broader industry shift in response to evolving geopolitical and market conditions.
FROM THE MEDIA: Abrdn announced it will drop China from its Emerging Markets Sustainable Equity fund, relaunching it as an ex-China product to offer investors more regional flexibility. While the fund has underperformed in recent years, it was heavily invested in Chinese tech firms like Alibaba and Tencent. The fund's restructuring aligns with the broader trend of investors seeking alternatives to China due to its economic struggles and heightened market risks. Data shows a significant rise in ex-China emerging market strategies, reflecting increasing demand for diversified products across other high-growth regions like India.
READ THE STORY: FT
Hackers Exploit Default Credentials in FOUNDATION Software to Breach Construction Firms
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): Cybersecurity firm Huntress has detected threat actors exploiting default credentials in FOUNDATION Accounting Software, widely used in the construction sector. Attackers are gaining access to high-privileged accounts, compromising systems, and leveraging vulnerabilities to run unauthorized commands.
Analyst Comments: This attack highlights a common but critical cybersecurity oversight: the failure to update default credentials. FOUNDATION Software, used by many construction sub-industries, leaves high-privileged accounts vulnerable to brute-force attacks, exposing companies to significant risks. The use of open ports and vulnerable SQL configurations (e.g., xp_cmdshell) amplifies the threat. The attack reinforces the necessity of securing software at the configuration stage, particularly in industries with legacy systems or lower cybersecurity maturity. Similar incidents across sectors could be mitigated by basic security hygiene practices like credential management and reducing unnecessary public exposure.
FROM THE MEDIA: Huntress reported that cybercriminals are targeting construction-related firms using FOUNDATION Accounting Software, primarily through brute-forcing default credentials on SQL servers. Attackers are exploiting high-privileged accounts such as "sa" and "dba" to run arbitrary commands via the xp_cmdshell configuration, allowing full control over the system. The attacks, first observed on September 14, 2024, have already compromised 33 out of 500 hosts protected by Huntress. To defend against these threats, the cybersecurity firm recommends updating default passwords, limiting internet exposure, and disabling vulnerable features like xp_cmdshell.
READ THE STORY: THN
Cards Against Humanity Sues SpaceX Over Alleged Land Encroachment at US-Mexico Border
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): Cards Against Humanity (CAH) has filed a lawsuit against SpaceX, alleging that Elon Musk’s company unlawfully occupied land CAH purchased in 2017 near the US-Mexico border. The land was originally acquired as part of a campaign to block the construction of a border wall. CAH seeks up to $15 million in damages.
Analyst Comments: This legal dispute underscores the complexities that arise when private companies, especially those with large infrastructure projects like SpaceX, inadvertently encroach on third-party land. The situation is particularly notable due to the political context of the land acquisition, which was initially a protest against the Trump administration's border wall. While the dispute may appear unconventional—pitting a party-game company against a tech giant—it highlights ongoing challenges related to land use, property rights, and the expansion of industrial projects. The lawsuit could set a precedent for how companies must navigate land ownership issues, particularly when engaging in large-scale developments.
FROM THE MEDIA: Cards Against Humanity filed a lawsuit accusing SpaceX of taking over land the company bought in 2017 near the US-Mexico border to oppose the Trump border wall. The complaint alleges that SpaceX used the land for construction without permission, clearing vegetation, storing equipment, and parking vehicles. CAH claims SpaceX has treated the land as its own for at least six months, leading to significant property damage. The lawsuit seeks up to $15 million in compensation for property restoration, lost value, and reputational harm. SpaceX has not yet commented on the lawsuit.
READ THE STORY: arsTECHNICA
Gun-Equipped Tesla Cybertrucks Spotted in Russian Military Units
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): Videos have emerged of Tesla Cybertrucks, modified with machine guns, being used by Chechen units in the Russian army. While these sightings have raised questions about how the vehicles reached the conflict zone, Elon Musk has denied personal involvement in supplying the trucks.
Analyst Comments: The presence of Tesla Cybertrucks in the Russia-Ukraine conflict highlights the intersection of civilian electric vehicles with military use, raising questions about the effectiveness and durability of such vehicles in combat scenarios. While the Cybertrucks have been praised for their speed and maneuverability, their use in warfare brings attention to potential vulnerabilities, such as cybersecurity risks and challenges with battery life in harsh conditions. Furthermore, the incident underlines potential geopolitical ramifications, especially given the existing sanctions against Russia and the broader implications of Western technology appearing in conflict zones.
FROM THE MEDIA: Recent reports have shown Tesla Cybertrucks, armed with machine guns, deployed by Chechen forces supporting the Russian army. Ramzan Kadyrov, the Chechen leader, has showcased the modified trucks, calling them "Cyberbeasts" for their utility on the battlefield. Elon Musk has publicly denied gifting any Cybertrucks to Kadyrov, though Kadyrov maintains the opposite. The appearance of these vehicles in a conflict zone, despite international sanctions, has led to speculation about how they were obtained and has raised concerns about the risks of using civilian technology for military purposes.
READ THE STORY: Bulgarian Military
Qualcomm Considers Intel Takeover Amid Struggles and Market Shifts
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): Qualcomm has reportedly approached Intel about a potential takeover, sparking significant market interest and speculation. While no formal offer has been made, the acquisition would represent the largest tech deal in history, surpassing Microsoft’s Activision purchase. Both companies are evaluating the feasibility and potential obstacles, including regulatory scrutiny and patent agreements.
Analyst Comments: Intel’s ongoing decline has made it vulnerable to acquisition approaches, with Qualcomm eyeing strategic assets. However, this deal faces significant regulatory challenges, particularly regarding antitrust concerns and existing agreements with AMD over x86 licenses. Qualcomm’s interest could be seen as a way to strengthen its position in chip manufacturing and PC design, areas where Intel has struggled in recent years. If successful, the deal would reshape the semiconductor industry, but the complex dynamics of U.S. competition laws and Intel’s patent agreements will likely pose major hurdles.
FROM THE MEDIA: Qualcomm recently approached Intel about a possible acquisition, although talks are still in the preliminary stages with no formal offer yet made. Intel’s struggles, including a dramatic fall in market value, have left the once-dominant chipmaker vulnerable. Qualcomm’s interest seems to focus on Intel’s PC design business, but financial, strategic, and regulatory obstacles could complicate the deal. The potential acquisition would face intense scrutiny from regulators worldwide, especially regarding competition and national security concerns. Qualcomm, which outsources its chip production, would need to navigate Intel’s complex licensing agreements with AMD to complete the acquisition.
READ THE STORY: The Register // FT
Items of interest
FCC Chair Raises Concerns Over Starlink's Dominance and Market Impact
Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF): With SpaceX's Starlink now accounting for nearly two-thirds of all active satellites, FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel has expressed concerns about its growing dominance and the need for increased competition in the space industry. The FCC is working on initiatives to promote market diversity while addressing space debris concerns.
Analyst Comments: Starlink’s rapid satellite deployment highlights the evolving landscape of commercial space ventures, but it also raises questions about monopolistic control in the space-based broadband sector. Jessica Rosenworcel’s comments reflect broader regulatory worries about competition, as well as environmental and operational challenges posed by large satellite constellations. While Starlink’s success has been crucial in advancing global broadband, the FCC's stance indicates that unchecked dominance could stifle innovation and competition. As more players enter the satellite communications market, regulatory frameworks will play a pivotal role in balancing innovation, competition, and sustainability.
FROM THE MEDIA: FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel voiced concerns over the growing dominance of Starlink in the satellite broadband market, noting that SpaceX now controls almost two-thirds of all active satellites. She emphasized the need for more competitors to ensure lower prices and increased innovation. Rosenworcel also highlighted the FCC's efforts to promote transparency and competition by assisting companies looking to launch their own satellite constellations. As Starlink expands, concerns about space debris management have also surfaced, prompting new deorbit regulations for satellite operators. Despite these efforts, Rosenworcel warned that Starlink’s dominance could pose a significant challenge to the future of space-based communications.
READ THE STORY: The Register
South African President urges Elon Musk to return home and invest, as talks to launch Starlink begin (Video)
FROM THE MEDIA: South African President urges Elon Musk to return home and invest, as talks to launch Starlink begin - Elon Musk, the world’s richest man and South Africa's native son, is in talks with President Cyril Ramaphosa to bring Starlink, his revolutionary satellite internet service, to Africa’s most developed economy. This exciting development could redefine South Africa’s internet landscape and have far-reaching consequences for the nation's digital future. But what exactly does this mean for South Africa?
Starlink Disturbs Radio Astronomy Research (Video)
FROM THE MEDIA: Second-generation Starlink satellites are emitting unintended electromagnetic radiation (UEMR), disrupting radio astronomy by overwhelming sensitive telescopes. A new study reveals that this radiation is up to 32 times stronger than previous generations, posing a serious threat to space research.
The stories selected cover a broad array of cyber threats and are intended to aid readers in framing key publicly discussed threats and overall situational awareness. InfoDom Securities does not endorse any third-party claims made in their original material or related links on their sites; the opinions expressed by third parties are theirs alone. For further questions, please contact InfoDom Securities at dominanceinformation@gmail.com.