Short Takes – 11-21-24

Ukraine says Russia launched an intercontinental missile in an attack for the first time in the war. APNews.com article. Pull quote: “While the range of an ICBM would seem excessive for use against Ukraine, such missiles are designed to carry nuclear warheads, and the use of one would serve as a chilling reminder of Russia’s nuclear capability and a powerful message of potential escalation.”

CISA Director Jen Easterly to depart on Inauguration Day. NextGov.com article. Pull quote: “Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose is being considered to lead the agency after Easterly leaves, Politico reported last week, citing four people who have spoken to those in his orbit.” Also points out that the last-administration’s political-appointees generally leave on inauguration day.

NSA Director Wants Industry to Disclose Details of Telecom Hacks. Bloomberg.com article. Pull quote: “Two cybersecurity experts who requested anonymity to speak freely have privately complained about the lack of information shared that could otherwise help them and others understand, find and tackle the hacks.”

Whooping cough cases have quintupled. These states have it worst. TheHill.com article. Pull quote: “Experts believe the 2024 surge in cases may be in part because of missed vaccinations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Widespread masking in 2020 and 2021 also helped prevent spreading of the bacteria that causes pertussis. Now, the disease is back with a vengeance, and we’re seeing more cases than we did in 2019.”

Scientists identify previously unknown compound in drinking water. TheHill.com article. Pull quote: “The mystery compound is called “chloronitramide anion,” which forms from the decomposition of inorganic chloramines — disinfectants used to safeguard people from diseases like typhoid and cholera, the researchers found in a study, published Thursday in Science.”