The UK's National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) cautions that artificial intelligence (AI) progress, particularly generative AI tools, will elevate the sophistication of scam emails. The NCSC warns that identifying phishing attempts or fake password reset requests will become challenging for users due to the capabilities of AI, increasing cyber-attack volumes. The report highlights the potential rise in ransomware attacks, facilitated by AI's lower barriers for cybercriminals. While acknowledging AI's defensive capabilities, the NCSC emphasizes the need for enhanced cybersecurity measures. The UK government introduces guidelines for businesses to strengthen resilience against ransomware threats.

During his 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' in Barpeta, Rahul Gandhi, facing police action, challenges Assam to file more cases, asserting he won't be intimidated. Accusing CM Himanta Biswa Sarma of corruption involving land and betel nut businesses, Gandhi labels him the "most corrupt Chief Minister." Unfazed by the FIR, he criticizes BJP-RSS for erasing Assam's identity and vows Assam will be run locally. Gandhi alleges corruption in Assam and claims Sarma steals land while engaging in the supari business. Despite legal hurdles, Gandhi stands strong, emphasizing he cannot be intimidated by the BJP-RSS.

In a surprising turn of events, Siddharth Anand's much-anticipated aerial action drama, "Fighter," featuring Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone, has been banned across all Gulf countries, excluding the UAE. Despite its imminent release on January 25, 2024, the reasons behind this decision remain undisclosed. Renowned film expert Girish Johar and trade analyst Sreedhar Pillai confirmed the ban, delivering a significant setback to the film's international release. "Fighter," depicting cinematic brilliance with a runtime of 2 hours and 46 minutes, has already received a U/A certification from the Central Board of Film Certification.            

In the aftermath of a star-studded 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony at the Ram Mandir, bus services between Lucknow and Ayodhya stand suspended due to an unprecedented surge of devotees. Over 5 lakh people flocked to Ayodhya, enduring harsh winters, with only 3 lakh managing to offer prayers. Heavy security measures are in place, featuring 8,000 personnel from UP police, RAF, and SSB. Authorities advise visitors not to rush, urging scheduling visits after two weeks. The temple, now expecting over a lakh daily visitors, remains under tight vigilance as devotees continue to gather.

In a retaliatory move, the US conducted "proportionate" strikes on three facilities in Iraq used by Iran-backed militia groups, including Kataib Hezbollah. US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin stated the precision strikes were a direct response to recent attacks against US and coalition allies in Iraq and Syria. Last week's missile attack on the Al Asad airbase resulted in injuries to US military personnel. Austin praised the professionalism of the strikes and emphasized the commitment to defending American interests, urging the groups and their Iranian sponsors to cease attacks. Tensions persist in the region amid a series of incidents involving Iran and its proxies.      

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has penned a letter to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, expressing serious concerns about the safety of Rahul Gandhi during the ongoing Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Assam. This follows clashes between Congress workers, led by Gandhi, and police near Guwahati, resulting in an FIR against Congress leaders. The letter details security lapses and alleged attacks by BJP workers on the yatra. Kharge urges Shah to intervene, ensuring Gandhi's safety, and calls for preventive measures by Assam authorities. The yatra addresses social, economic, and political issues, opposing what Congress sees as anti-people policies of the Modi government.

A small plane, en route to Rio Tinto's Diavik diamond mine, crashed near Fort Smith in Canada, claiming six lives. The cause of the crash, which occurred after takeoff, remains unknown. The aircraft, registered to Northwestern Air Lease, lost contact near the Slave River. Rio Tinto CEO Jakob Stausholm expressed devastation and pledged cooperation with authorities in the investigation. Royal Canadian Air Force squads were deployed for search and rescue. Premier RJ Simpson offered condolences, and Chief Coroner Garth Eggenberger confirmed the deaths. The incident follows a recent helicopter crash in neighboring British Columbia that resulted in three fatalities.

Mumbai's Mira Bhayander Vasai Virar (MBVV) Police issue an order to social media group admins, instructing them not to forward jokes or videos related to recent clashes for communal harmony. Violations of this order will result in police action. The directive follows a communal clash during a vehicle rally in Naya Nagar. Thirteen people have been arrested, and an attempt-to-murder charge has been filed. The clash occurred during celebrations for the Ram Mandir inauguration. The Municipal Corporation has also demolished "illegal" roadside stalls, sparking concerns over license renewals. Authorities aim to maintain order amidst the aftermath of the Mira Road incident.

Former President Donald Trump triumphs in New Hampshire's Republican primary, setting the stage for a possible 2024 rematch with current President Joe Biden, who secures the Democratic primary win despite not actively campaigning. Trump's consecutive victories in Iowa and New Hampshire indicate a strong Republican base. Nikki Haley, Trump's rival, finishes second. Despite Trump's legal challenges, exit polls reveal potential obstacles in his campaign. Meanwhile, Democrats defy party rules, holding their primary early. Biden, a write-in candidate, secures victory. The New Hampshire results shape the evolving landscape for the November 2024 presidential election.

Parts of Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) experienced light rainfall early Wednesday amid ongoing cold wave conditions in North India, expected to persist until January 27. Dense to very dense fog engulfed various regions, impacting visibility. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasted continued fog in Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Uttar Pradesh. Delhi may witness isolated dense fog until January 27. Cold day to severe cold day conditions are likely in parts of Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. Similar conditions are predicted for West Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, East Rajasthan, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh on specific dates.