Doomsday Clock Nears Midnight as FBI Searches Fulton County Election Office
The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists announced on January 27, 2026, that the Doomsday Clock is now set at 85 seconds to midnight, the closest it has ever been, according to Hacker News. This announcement came amid rising global tensions and concerns over nuclear security.
Meanwhile, in Georgia, the FBI conducted a search at the Fulton County election office outside of Atlanta on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, according to NPR News. The county stated that the search warrant served by the FBI was for records related to the 2020 election. The FBI confirmed it was executing a "court authorized law enforcement action," but declined to provide further details. Last month, the Department of Justice announced it was suing Fulton County for records related to the 2020 election, according to NPR News.
In other news, MIT Technology Review reported on a growing threat landscape involving the use of AI by hackers. According to the report, attackers are increasingly using AI for reconnaissance, exploit development, credential harvesting, lateral movement, and data exfiltration. In one case, attackers reportedly used AI to carry out 80 to 90 percent of an espionage campaign targeting roughly 30 organizations across tech, finance, manufacturing, and government in September 2025. Humans only stepped in at a handful of key decision points, according to MIT Technology Review.
On a more positive note, Nature News reported on new research into the health benefits of exercise. Researchers are finding that even a little exercise can significantly reduce the risk of death from all causes and protect against conditions like coronary heart disease. The use of smart watches and wearable devices is providing fresh insights into the benefits of exercise and the harms of inactivity, according to Nature News. Nature News also reported on research into why completing difficult tasks feels rewarding, highlighting the role of brain chemistry in motivation and achievement.
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