Times of India Digest
Daily News • Wednesday, 28 January 2026
‘For official use only’: Indian-origin CISA acting director uploaded sensitive government files to public ChatGPT, says report
CISA’s acting director, Madhu Gottumukkala, uploaded sensitive “for official use only” contracting documents into the public version of ChatGPT last summer, triggering multiple security warnings. Despite the non-classified nature of the files, the incident prompted an internal review by DHS officials to assess potential harm to government security.
No REAL ID at the airport? Will paying TSA’s $45 fee actually get you on your flight? Five FAQs answered
Starting next month, domestic air travelers without a REAL ID or acceptable alternative like a passport face a potential $45 fee for identity verification at the airport. This TSA process, averaging 10-15 minutes, requires personal information and payment via digital means. Children under 18 are exempt when accompanied by an adult.
‘Might as well allow H‑1Bs to make nuclear bombs’: American businessman says letting foreigners work in AI labs is ‘national security’ issue
‘Only genuine visitors’: Canada warns FIFA visit is not an avenue to refugee status; must leave after matches
California university professor warns H-1B freeze will harm higher education, shares list of global scholars from Texas university
A California professor criticizes Texas’ H-1B visa freeze, arguing it jeopardizes higher education’s global competitiveness. He highlights renowned foreign-born scholars at UT Austin, emphasizing international talent’s crucial role in research and academic excellence. Restricting these pathways, he warns, could significantly weaken US universities’ long-term capacity and standing.
What was sprayed on Ilhan Omar during her chaotic town hall meeting?
Sexual assault after online job advertisements: Indian-origin man arrested, charged in Canada, released on bail next day
‘Maybe try not tweeting racist stuff’: Vinod Khosla hits back at Elon Musk over ‘White people’ row
YouTuber IShowSpeed set to receive Ghanaian passport after Africa tour
Global YouTube sensation IShowSpeed is set to receive a Ghanaian passport following his popular “Speed Does Africa” tour. Ghana’s foreign minister lauded the influencer for positively showcasing the nation and continent. The 21-year-old’s unfiltered streams have garnered millions of viewers, promoting a more relatable image of Africa, though the passport decision has sparked some debate.
‘He’s got a gun’: US agents involved in Alex Pretti’s killing placed on administrative leave amid outrage, report says
A preliminary DHS report indicates two federal officers fired their weapons during the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. The report, based on CBP documents and body-camera footage, states an officer yelled “He’s got a gun!” before a Border Patrol agent and a CBP officer discharged their firearms.
Caught on cam: Russian soldier camouflaging in penguin costume blasted by Ukrainian drone
Indian Green Card holder claims ‘USCIS viewing my LinkedIn profile’: ‘I have no criminal record’
Tom Homan wins over Minnesota leaders Tim Walz and Jacob Frey as JD Vance stumbles amid ICE backlash
Following Vice President Vance’s unsuccessful visit, President Trump dispatched border czar Tom Homan to Minneapolis. Homan’s arrival aimed to de-escalate tensions after recent violent immigration operations and fatal shootings. Unlike Vance, Homan engaged in dialogue with local officials, leading to a calmer atmosphere and reduced protests, signaling a potential reset in federal-state relations.
Several of Indian-origin among eight men in Ontario commercial driver exam fraud probe
‘Syringes and poison ivy’: Virginia nurse sharing videos for ICE ‘sabotage’ fired by VCU Health
A VCU Health nurse was terminated after viral videos showed her advising on methods to harm and incapacitate ICE agents. The nurse suggested using syringes with anesthetics and poison ivy in water guns, and spiking drinks with laxatives. VCU Health stated the content was inappropriate and did not align with their values, initiating an investigation.
‘Zero grief’: Candace Owens leaks Erika Kirk’s giggling audio after Charlie Kirk’s death
In a surprising twist, Candace Owens has unveiled an audio recording of Erika Kirk, the widow of the assassinated Charlie Kirk, planning a memorial for her husband.
Anthony Kazmierczak, who sprayed Ilhan Omar, is a Trump fan with Parkinson’s disease
‘I watched him die’: Woman who filmed Alex Pretti shooting in Minneapolis speaks out for the first time
In a gripping account, a bystander recounts the devastating moment when an ICE agent shot Alex Pretti, who was selflessly directing traffic. Her video evidence disputes official narratives, portraying Pretti as unarmed and engaged in assisting others just moments before his tragic death.
‘Living in constant fear’: Canada city calls for emergency amid extortion threats by Punjabi gangsters
‘No security threat here’: Bangladesh questions India’s move to recall diplomats’ families
Bangladesh’s foreign affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Wednesday said that there was “no reason” for India to recall the family members of its diplomats from Dhaka. This comes after New Delhi cited precautionary safety concerns amid rising extremist activity ahead of the country’s general elections scheduled for February 2026.