Unions ask court to stop DOGE from accessing Social Security data

The Social Security Administration has reversed its decision to phase out paper checks, allowing beneficiaries without electronic payment options to continue receiving them. This change follows Senator Elizabeth Warren's meeting with Commissioner Frank Bisignano, during which concerns about service reductions and the needs of unbanked seniors were addressed, alongside improvements in customer service metrics. Want More Context? 🔎

Four Carnival Cruise Lines passengers were arrested in Bermuda for possessing illegal drugs, including carfentanyl, a synthetic opioid potent enough to sedate elephants. The Bermuda Police Service stated that the drugs, intended for distribution on the island, were discovered onboard the ship, potentially preventing a tragedy. Want More Context? 🔎

Cybersecurity Breach Affects U.S. AgenciesThe Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Health and Human Services, and other agencies have been hacked due to vulnerabilities in Microsoft's SharePoint service, attributed to Chinese state actors, Linen Typhoon and Violet Typhoon. Microsoft and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) are coordinating responses, including software updates, while monitoring for any data exfiltration. Want More Context? 🔎

Washington — Todd Blanche, the second-highest-ranking Justice Department official, is set to meet with Ghislaine Maxwell to discuss Jeffrey Epstein, following her conviction for facilitating his abuse of underage girls. Blanche emphasized the DOJ's commitment to uncovering the truth, stating, "No one is above the law," as he reaches out to Maxwell for insights. Want More Context? 🔎

House Speaker Mike Johnson Calls for Transparency in Epstein Case House Speaker Mike Johnson has urged for "full transparency" regarding the Jeffrey Epstein case, expressing concerns over the Trump administration's handling of the matter. Amid pressure from both parties, he emphasized the need to bring all involved in Epstein's crimes to justice, while some House Republicans have sought to subpoena the Justice Department for further information. Want More Context? 🔎

Police in Arizona have arrested Roger Neil Schmidt Sr., 64, for the 1984 cold-case murder and sexual assault of two teenagers in Northern California. Schmidt, identified through forensic genetic genealogy, was charged with murder and sexual assault after DNA collected matched the profile; he is expected to be extradited to Shasta County. Want More Context? 🔎