🛡️ New Microsoft Defender flaw grants system access

A new Microsoft Defender zero-day exploit named "ShieldBreak" has been released by security researcher Nightmare Eclipse. This vulnerability allows users to gain SYSTEM privileges on fully patched Windows 10, 11, and Server systems. The exploit was tested successfully on Windows 11 25h2 and Windows Server 2025 with a 100% success rate. This follows an ongoing dispute between the researcher and Microsoft regarding vulnerability disclosure practices. Microsoft stated they are actively investigating the claims about the new ShieldBreak zero-day.

⚖️ Kerala HC strikes down Centre's FCRA denial

The Kerala High Court overturned a central order that refused to renew FCRA certificates for two NGOs. These NGOs, Save A Family Plan and Kerala Social Service Forum, were denied renewal over alleged funding of the Vizhinjam port protest. The refusal was based on a Central security agency's report, but the court ruled the denial lacked specific reasons. The court mandated authorities to review and issue fresh orders within three months. It found the link between the NGOs and protest funding to be 'too far-fetched.'

⚖️ Probe panel finds all three charges against Justice Verma proven

An inquiry committee has found all three charges against Justice Yashwant Varma to be established in a recent probe. The allegations involved unexplained cash at his residence in New Delhi, lapses in evidence handling, and unsatisfactory responses. A large amount of cash in Rs 500 notes was found at 30, Tughlak Crescent, but the judge couldn't explain its source. The committee submitted its final report to the competent authority for further legal action. ⚖️

🧑‍🎓 Congress defends Jharkhand govt amid student protests

Congress defended the Jharkhand government's handling of the youth agitation over alleged exam issues. This defense came after police used lathi-charge at Albert Ekka Chowk. Congress cited 152 paper leaks since 2015 under BJP rule, but only 17 were investigated by CBI. They accused the BJP of wanting a CBI probe to shield the 'exam mafia' instead of letting CID investigate. Congress alleges BJP disrupted the peaceful protest on August 10 in Ranchi. 🧑‍🎓

🎬 Vishal backs Udhayanidhi despite political heat 🎬

Actor Vishal expressed strong affection for Udhayanidhi Stalin after supporting the action taken against him. This happened at the audio launch of Vishal's directorial debut, Magudam, in the context of Udhayanidhi's detention in Thanjavur. The detention occurred earlier this month following remarks perceived as aimed at actress Trisha during the Cauvery water dispute protests. Vishal stressed that while political paths might differ, their personal friendship remains unaffected by any rivalry. He also called for equal punishment for anyone making derogatory remarks about women in the fraternity.

💥 Tata Group power shift deepens after key exits

The power struggle at the Tata Group has intensified after N Chandrasekaran announced he won't seek reappointment as chairman of Tata Sons. This followed the withdrawal of Ratan Tata's associates like Vijay Singh and Mehli Mistry from key positions. The dispute centers around Tata Trusts, which owns about 66 per cent of Tata Sons. Key disagreements involve board appointments and whether Tata Sons should eventually be publicly listed. The situation adds friction between different trustee camps within the conglomerate.

🛡️ New 0-day exploit bypasses Windows Defender patch

Nightmare-Eclipse released ShieldBreak, a ninth Windows zero-day exploit targeting Microsoft’s own fix. This vulnerability affects Windows 11 25H2 and Windows Server 2025, as reported on this date. The exploit bypasses the patch for CVE-2026-50656 using CLFS log manipulation and object manager symbolic links. This proves the underlying weakness in the Malware Protection Engine remains exploitable through different techniques. Security teams must monitor for these specific activities until Microsoft issues a comprehensive fix. 🛡️

🌧️ Why aren't TTD temples doing rain rituals?

The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) is facing pressure to perform the 'Varuna Yagam' due to the current drought linked to El Nino. Former TTD chairman Bhumana Karunakar Reddy criticized the TTD administration for not conducting the ritual. He pointed out that smaller temples like Srisailam and Vijayawada had already started these rain rituals based on public feeling. Reddy stated that as the world's largest temple trust, TTD has a duty to help the global farming community. He reminded that TTD held similar rituals during the COVID-19 pandemic.

💖 Porch lunch turns into $13k friendship story

A chance meeting between homeowner Abigail Mwaungulu and Wendy's worker Dara in Palm Beach County, Florida, sparked a genuine friendship. The initial encounter, filmed and shared on TikTok, quickly went viral with over 1.5 million views. Abigail then launched a GoFundMe campaign to support Dara's dreams, which has since raised over $13,000. Dara, who walks to work, hopes to build a career helping others with this financial aid. The two women remain close friends, showing the power of simple kindness.

🛡️ Chrome patches major security flaws enabling remote attacks

Google released a new Chrome Stable Channel update to fix five high-severity security vulnerabilities affecting core browser components. This update applies to Windows and macOS at version 151.0.7922.137/.138, while Linux users get version 151.0.7922.137. The flaws span JavaScript engine, interface components, and Blink rendering engine, potentially allowing remote attacks via malicious web content. CVE-2026-19556, for instance, was reported on July 15, 2026, and earned a $500 bug bounty. Users should update immediately and organizations should review third-party extension governance. 🛡️

💸 JYP Earnings Dip, Stray Kids Absence Cited

JYP Entertainment reported a sharp decline in its second-quarter earnings, which was reportedly linked to fewer major activities by Stray Kids. The company announced preliminary consolidated results for Q2 2026, showing revenue at ₩183 billion KRW and operating profit at ₩31.0 billion KRW. Compared to Q2 2025, revenue dropped 15.1% and operating profit plunged by 41.4%. This dip highlighted Stray Kids' major financial impact on JYP's performance during that period. The company anticipates improvement as Stray Kids releases new music and heads into more touring in the latter half of 2026. 📈