Author: Mario Bekes
Introduction: Thirty years ago, my life changed forever. I arrived in Australia as a member of my country’s diplomatic corps with almost no understanding of English. I had to start all over again. Not only that, but my life had begun many times before then, and I had failed numerous... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
Introduction: Thirty years ago, I lost my parents, and from that moment on, I had to carve out my own place in this world. When war came, it didn’t just steal my home—it drowned my dreams in a deep, dark abyss where no one could hear my cries for help.... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
Introduction: Growing up under communism, I had a unique perspective on intelligence and security from an early age. My grandfather, who held the position of second-in-command in Yugoslavia’s state secret intelligence services, served as both a mentor and a figure of caution. I closely observed his demeanour—how he carried himself... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
During my recent journey to Berlin—a city where every street corner whispers secrets of a divided past—I uncovered the chilling reality of “Zersetzung.” This was not just another research assignment; it was an immersive exploration into the dark art of psychological warfare. Amidst the solemn corridors of historic museums, I... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
Introduction How do you respond when you’re angry at yourself for your own mistakes? Do you dwell on them, replaying every decision that led you to failure? Do you carry regret like a weight on your shoulders, unable to let go? Each of us has a story—a collection of victories... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
Introduction The globe was in shock, believing the fall of the Berlin Wall to be the ultimate event signaling the start of the Eastern Bloc’s disintegration. But this story ignores the crucial deeds Hungary took to prepare the ground for the collapse of communist governments all throughout Eastern Europe. Living... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
Love is in the air—or is it? As February unfolds, the world is painted red with roses, hearts, and romantic gestures. But beneath the glossy surface of chocolates and candlelit dinners lurks a different kind of romance—one fueled by deception, fraud, and heartbreak. While millions celebrate love, cybercriminals see Valentine’s... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
Introduction I have a story I’d like to share with you. Not so long ago, I flew back to my old country, Croatia, to visit old friends and places and attend some anniversaries, and being a keen photographer, I asked my old school friend to stop near an oil refinery.... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
Introduction: When something is marketed as “free money,” alarm bells should ring. The PayPal-owned browser extension Honey—once heralded as the ultimate deal hunter for online shoppers—has found itself at the epicentre of what could be the largest influencer scandal in history. As allegations of commission theft and deceptive practices surface,... View Article
Author: Mario Bekes
Introduction How many times have you checked your phone today? Ten times? Fifty? Research shows the average person picks up their phone 344 times per day—once every four minutes. These devices have become more than tools; they’re our wallets, personal assistants, and lifelines. But as mobile use skyrockets, so do... View Article