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Your health data is being sold without your consent

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Your health information might feel private and secure with your doctor, but the reality is far more complicated. Data brokers collect a wide range of sensitive health data, from diagnoses and prescription details to personal identifiers, and sell this data to marketers, insurers, and other third parties. These buyers use the information to target ads, adjust insurance premiums, or even for purposes you might not expect. Understanding who holds your health data and how it’s used and shared is crucial to protecting your privacy.

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A woman viewing her health app.

A woman viewing her health app. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Massive health data breaches are fueling the data broker industry

You might think your health data is safe with your doctor. But what if I told you total strangers might know when you last Googled “early signs of dementia” or filled a prescription for anxiety meds, and they’re selling that to whoever is willing to pay for it? A recent data breach at Yale New Haven Health, Connecticut’s largest healthcare system, exposed sensitive information on 5.5 million people. And it’s not an isolated incident; new research shows that since 2020, approximately 94.5 million Americans may have had their Social Security numbers stolen during health data breaches. The scary part is that data brokers collect and sell the names, addresses, and prescribed medications of patients diagnosed with mental health disorders to marketers on a large scale. How much is your medical information worth? Data brokers can sell it for as little as $0.06 per record. Let’s break down what these data brokers know, who they’re selling it to, and why it matters for you, your family, and especially vulnerable groups like seniors.

Illustration of a medical record.

Illustration of a medical record. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

CUSTOM DATA REMOVAL: WHY IT MATTERS FOR PERSONAL INFO ONLINE

What types of health information are data brokers selling?

There’s a difference between protected health information, the kind your doctor and health insurer have to keep private, thanks to HIPAA, and the health-adjacent data you leave behind everywhere else.

Data brokers typically don’t have access to your official medical records. But they’re not regulated under HIPAA or any other laws, so they can legally collect:

  • Fitness app data: Step counts, heart rate, calories burned.
  • Symptom-related Google searches: Even “early signs of dementia” or “knee pain at night.”
  • Pharmacy purchases: Both prescriptions and over-the-counter medications.
  • Wellness quizzes and online forms: Those “What’s your biological age?” surveys aren’t just for fun.
  • Social media posts and likes: Public posts about health topics, comments in support groups.
  • Location data: Visits to clinics, pharmacies, or addiction recovery centers.

And it doesn’t stop there. Non-health data, like where you shop or the ads you click, gets combined to build a disturbingly accurate health profile.

A woman using a health app to keep track of pills

A woman using a health app to keep track of pills (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

WHAT HACKERS CAN LEARN ABOUT YOU FROM A DATA BROKER FILE 

Why selling your health data is more dangerous than you think

This isn’t harmless marketing data. When health information lands in the wrong hands, it creates real risks:

  • Higher insurance premiums or limited coverage based on inferred health risks.
  • Scams targeting seniors and vulnerable groups use lists of people flagged for dementia, heart disease, or other conditions.
  • Privacy violations, exposing sensitive details like mental health struggles or fertility treatments.
  • Discrimination in hiring, housing, or services based on health-related data.
  • Resale to unknown third parties, making it impossible to control once it’s out there.

And it’s not just marketers. A recent government-backed autism study led by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. sparked outrage after it was revealed that private health data was collected from federal and commercial databases without clear safeguards.  Security experts warn that this kind of large-scale data collection runs the risk of exposing deeply personal information with little oversight.

A healthcare professional looking at health data on a tablet.

A healthcare professional looking at health data on a tablet. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

THINK YOU CAN DELETE YOUR OWN DATA? WHY IT’S HARDER THAN YOU THINK 

8 ways to protect your health data from data brokers

Worried about who has access to your health data? While you can’t control every breach or broker, you can take steps to limit what’s collected, shared, and sold. Here’s how to take back control of your digital health footprint-starting today.

1) Use a personal data removal service: Data brokers collect and sell sensitive health information, including diagnoses, prescriptions, and personal identifiers, to marketers, insurers, and other third parties. This means details about your pharmacy purchases, symptom-related searches, and more could be circulating without your knowledge. A personal data removal service can help you take back control. This is one of the most effective ways to safeguard your privacy and protect yourself and your family from risks like scams, higher insurance premiums, and discrimination.

While no service can guarantee the complete removal of your data from the internet, a data removal service is really a smart choice.  They aren’t cheap – and neither is your privacy.  These services do all the work for you by actively monitoring and systematically erasing your personal information from hundreds of websites.  It’s what gives me peace of mind and has proven to be the most effective way to erase your personal data from the internet.  By limiting the information available, you reduce the risk of scammers cross-referencing data from breaches with information they might find on the dark web, making it harder for them to target you. Check out my top picks for data removal services here.

Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web

2) Audit your apps and privacy settings: Health and fitness apps collect more than you realize. Delete the ones you don’t trust and check permissions on the rest

3) Be wary of free health quizzes and symptom checkers: If a site asks for personal details in exchange for “insights,” assume it’s monetizing your answers. Consult your doctor, not a clickbait quiz.

4) Limit data sharing beyond healthcare providers: Only provide necessary information when signing up for health-related services or apps. Be wary of sharing health details on social media or in public forums, as these can be scraped by data brokers.

5) Request data minimization from providers: Ask your healthcare providers to collect and store only the minimum amount of personal information necessary for your care, reducing the risk if their systems are compromised.

6) Use strong antivirus software: Strong antivirus software acts as a shield, protecting your devices from malware, ransomware, and other cyber threats that could compromise your personal health data. Choose a reputable solution that offers real-time threat detection, regular updates, and robust protection for all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Keeping your antivirus up to date is crucial for blocking malicious links and downloads before they can do harm. Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices.

7) Regularly update your software: Cyber threats targeting health data are constantly evolving, and outdated software can leave your devices vulnerable to attacks that expose your sensitive information. Keeping your operating system, apps, antivirus, and security tools up to date ensures you have the latest protections against malware, ransomware, and other exploits that data brokers or hackers might use to access your health information. Regular updates patch security holes before they can be exploited, helping to prevent breaches like those that have exposed millions of Americans’ health details in recent years.

8) Use strong and unique passwords: Your health data is often protected by passwords on apps, portals, and devices. Using strong, unique passwords for each account reduces the risk that a single breach could give someone access to multiple sources of your personal information. Avoid common or reused passwords, and consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords securely. This step is crucial because once your login credentials are compromised, data brokers or cybercriminals can gather and sell your health-related data, leading to privacy violations, discrimination, or targeted scams. Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords. Get more details about my best expert-reviewed Password Managers of 2025 here. 

Kurt’s key takeaways

Your health should be personal, but in today’s digital world, that privacy is constantly under threat. Even if you’re cautious, your health-related information can be collected, analyzed, and sold without your clear consent. The good news is that you can take real steps to reduce your exposure and protect what matters. This isn’t about fear; it’s about staying informed and taking control of your digital footprint.

Should lawmakers and tech companies be doing more to protect our health data, or is it all on us to safeguard our own privacy? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com/Contact. 

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French music festival marred by wave of syringe attacks as suspects are detained

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A popular French street music festival has resulted in a slew of syringe attacks — prompting authorities to investigate. 

Twelve suspects have been detained after 145 festival go-ers reported being pricked while at the Fête de la Musique, according to France 24 with AFP news. The attacks occurred across the Paris region.

Multiple paramedical resources were mobilized, according to French outlet Le Républicain Lorrain.

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French politician François Grosdidier, who serves as the mayor of Metz, posted about the “injection assaults” on his Facebook page.

“Like many cities in France, Ville de Metz was not spared by these cowardly aggressions,” he wrote.

Nearly 150 people were spiked with syringes at French music festival Fête de la Musique over the weekend. A scene from the festival is shown above. (ROMAIN PERROCHEAU/AFP via Getty Images)

“Seventeen young girls (aged 14-20) were targeted as they were simply out to enjoy the evening.”

He added that the attacks were done on “nearly 150 women across the country.”

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Fox News Digital reached out to the French Interior Ministry for comment. 

Grosdidier indicated that calls for syringe assaults have been circulating across social media, sparking fears of a coordinated attack.

Fete De La Musique 2025 - 1st France Music Week

Calls for syringe assaults were circulating across social media prior to the festival, according to sources. (Kiran Ridley/Getty Images)

French influencer Abrège Soeur shared on Instagram ahead of the festival that “calls are circulating on Snapchat to prick people with contaminated syringes.” 

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It is unclear if the needles were spiked with “date-rape drugs” such as Rohypnol or GHB.

Other European countries have noted the uptick in spiking attacks, with the United Kingdom reporting an increase in 2021.

Fete De La Musique 2025 - 1st France Music Week

The United Kingdom has also reported an increase in needle attacks in recent years. Spiking victims (not pictured) have been predominantly female, according to Britain’s National Police Chiefs’ Council. (Kiran Ridley/Getty Images)

Britain’s National Police Chiefs’ Council conducted a report on spiking both by needle injection and in beverages.

The report found spiking victims are predominantly female.

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“Not only [is there] the immediate risk to their physical health, but also the shock and distress at having been targeted; the concern about going out socially in future; and, in cases of needle-facilitated spiking, the ongoing worry around testing for blood-borne diseases,” said the report. 

Humanoid robots handle quality checks and assembly at auto plant

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Kepler Robotics has officially introduced its Forerunner K2 “Bumblebee” humanoid robot at the SAIC-GM automotive plant in Shanghai, marking a significant moment in the real-world deployment of advanced robotics. In a recently released video, the K2 is seen moving confidently through the plant, performing detailed quality checks, and handling assembly operations that demand both strength and precision. This debut signals the beginning of scenario-based testing for Kepler’s humanoid robots across a variety of industrial settings, where their capabilities can be evaluated in live production environments.

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Humanoid robots at the SAIC-GM automotive plant in Shanghai

Humanoid robots at the SAIC-GM automotive plant in Shanghai (Kepler Robotics)

How Kepler’s K2 “Bumblebee” is changing automotive manufacturing

The K2 “Bumblebee” robot is built for the demands of modern factories. At SAIC-GM, it has already demonstrated its ability to perform intricate inspections, navigate complex factory layouts, and manage heavy automotive components with impressive autonomy. The robot can load stamped parts, manipulate mechanical fixtures, and adapt to new tasks using a combination of imitation and reinforcement learning. Its presence in the factory highlights a shift toward smarter, more efficient production lines, where robots and humans work side by side to achieve higher standards of quality and safety.

Forerunner K2 "Bumblebee" humanoid robot at the SAIC-GM automotive plant.

Forerunner K2 “Bumblebee” humanoid robot at the SAIC-GM automotive plant. (Kepler Robotics)

HUMANOID ROBOT MALFUNCTIONS AND SPARKS VIRAL PANIC

Mechanical and AI advancements in the Forerunner K2

Kepler’s Forerunner K2 is a notable step up from its predecessor, the K1, thanks to extensive improvements in both hardware and software. The K2 features a reinforced limb structure for greater durability and easier maintenance, tactile manipulators with an impressive 11 degrees of freedom per hand, and flexible fingertip sensors that boost its dexterity. Its integrated battery allows for up to eight hours of continuous operation, supporting the long shifts required in industrial settings.

On the intelligence side, the K2 leverages a cloud-based cognitive system that enables it to learn new tasks quickly and coordinate its movements with full-body awareness. Enhanced perception, task planning, and improved human-robot interaction algorithms allow the K2 to operate independently while collaborating smoothly with human coworkers.

Forerunner K2 "Bumblebee" humanoid robot at the SAIC-GM automotive plant.

Forerunner K2 “Bumblebee” humanoid robot at the SAIC-GM automotive plant. (Kepler Robotics)

AI HUMANOID ROBOT IS CHANGING THE WAY YOU BUY CARS AT DEALERSHIPS 

Kepler’s K2 and the future of humanoid robots in industry

Kepler’s ambitions for its humanoid robots extend far beyond automotive manufacturing. The company envisions these robots playing active roles in education, research, security, logistics, and hazardous outdoor operations. In classrooms, the K2 can support interactive learning and real-time coaching, while in research labs, it can help with data gathering and experimental tasks.

For security applications, the robot’s advanced sensors enable it to patrol complex areas, detect emergencies, and assist in rescue operations. In logistics, the K2 is designed to automate goods handling and warehouse management, increasing both accuracy and efficiency.

Its robust design, waterproofing, and resistance to extreme temperatures make it suitable for challenging environments, including areas with radiation or explosive hazards. The K2’s autonomous navigation and real-time monitoring capabilities help reduce risks and boost productivity, especially in high-risk conditions.

Forerunner K2 "Bumblebee" humanoid robot at the SAIC-GM automotive plant.

Forerunner K2 “Bumblebee” humanoid robot at the SAIC-GM automotive plant. (Kepler Robotics)

CHINESE HUMANOID ROBOT WITH EAGLE EYE VISION AND POWERFUL AI

What Sets the K2 Apart

The Forerunner K2 stands out for its precision, endurance, and adaptability. With advanced manipulators and flexible sensors, the robot can handle delicate and complex tasks that require a human-like touch. Its eight-hour battery life supports continuous operation during long industrial shifts, and its learning algorithms enable it to adapt to new tasks and environments with minimal retraining.

Kepler also emphasizes the cost efficiency of the K2, stating that it can match or exceed the workload of multiple human workers in certain scenarios, making it a practical addition to high-demand workplaces. The company has set the base price for the Forerunner K2 at around $30,000, positioning it as an accessible option for manufacturers seeking to boost productivity and efficiency with intelligent robotics.

Forerunner K2 "Bumblebee" humanoid robot at the SAIC-GM automotive plant.

Forerunner K2 “Bumblebee” humanoid robot at the SAIC-GM automotive plant. (Kepler Robotics)

Addressing concerns about job displacement

The introduction of advanced humanoid robots like Kepler’s K2 naturally raises questions about the future of human employment in manufacturing and other industries. It’s true that automation and robotics have the potential to change the way work is organized on the factory floor. Some worry that robots could replace jobs traditionally held by people, especially in roles that involve repetitive or physically demanding tasks.

However, experts and industry leaders point out that the story is more nuanced. While certain jobs may be automated, new opportunities often emerge alongside technological advancements. For example, the rise of robotics is expected to create roles in robot maintenance, programming, AI training, and oversight, jobs that require different skills but are essential to supporting and managing these new systems. Many analysts believe that robots like the K2 are likely to complement human workers by taking over monotonous or hazardous duties, which allows people to focus on more complex, creative, or supervisory tasks.

Collaborative robots, or “cobots,” are specifically designed to work alongside humans, enhancing productivity and safety rather than simply replacing labor. This collaborative approach can lead to new forms of teamwork and innovation on the factory floor, making work environments safer and more efficient. Ultimately, the integration of humanoid robots is expected to shift the workforce rather than eliminate it, opening up new possibilities for both businesses and employees as they adapt to a more automated future.

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Forerunner K2 "Bumblebee" humanoid robot at the SAIC-GM automotive plant.

Forerunner K2 “Bumblebee” humanoid robot at the SAIC-GM automotive plant. (Kepler Robotics)

Kurt’s key takeaways

Kepler’s K2 humanoid robot making its debut at SAIC-GM is a big step forward for robotics in real-world workplaces. Watching these robots take on challenging tasks alongside people shows just how much potential there is for collaboration between humans and machines. As more companies explore what humanoid robots can do, it’s going to be fascinating to see how these partnerships shape the future of work and industry.

Despite what experts and industry leaders say, does it concern you that as robots like Kepler’s K2 take on more tasks, human workers will be replaced? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips & security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

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Trump attends NATO summit as allies agree to boost defense spending

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President Donald Trump, fresh off announcing a ceasefire between Israel and Iran, is off to The Hague, Netherlands for the yearly summit of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), a conference where he’s hoping to drum up another foreign policy win by pushing European leaders to increase defense spending.

The president is expected to land in the Netherlands on Tuesday and return to the White House on Wednesday. 

It’s Trump’s first NATO summit since becoming president for a second term. In the past, he’s railed against NATO members for “freeloading” off U.S. military protection. This time, European allies are eager to prove him wrong. 

NATO reached an agreement for all nations to boost their defense spending to five percent of their gross domestic product, except Spain. 

Trump initially made the demand, which is expected to be finalized at the summit. 

“This summit is really about NATO’s credibility, and we are urging all of our Allies to step up to the plate and pay their fair share for transatlantic security,” U.S. NATO Ambassador Matthew Whitaker said.

U.S. President Donald Trump disembarks Air Force One as he arrives at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, U.S., June 21, 2025. REUTERS/Ken Cedeno

Spain complicated the consensus when Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez demanded an exemption from the new spending target – which would be a sharp increase from the 2 percent target Spain has had trouble meeting. 

TRUMP’S WEEK AHEAD WILL INCLUDE A TRIP TO THE HAGUE TO MEET WITH NATO LEADERS AS IRAN CRISIS GROWS LARGER

“We fully respect the legitimate desire of other countries to increase their defence investment, but we are not going to do it,” Sanchez said. 

Trump is expected to meet with Rutte and other world leaders and hold a press conference. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is also expected to attend, continuing his push for Ukraine’s admission into the alliance and its collective defense pact.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte boasted that allies were “stepping up to equal sharing of responsibility for our shared security.”

Trump has said he does not think the U.S. needs to hit the 5% target. “I don’t think we should, but I think they should,” he told reporters last week. 

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte holds a press conference ahead of a NATO summit, in The Hague, Netherlands June 23, 2025. REUTERS/Yves Herman

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte holds a press conference ahead of a NATO summit, in The Hague, Netherlands June 23, 2025. REUTERS/Yves Herman

WHAT TO EXPECT IN THE UPCOMING NATO SUMMIT: TRUMP, SPENDING, UKRAINE, IRAN

The President’s time at the summit will be brief, spending approximately 24 hours on the ground. His meetings “will focus on issues of shared concern and reaffirm the United States strong ties with our allies and partners,” according to an administration official.

But they come after Trump can boast of a ceasefire between Israel and Iran. 

“It has been fully agreed by and between Israel and Iran that there will be a Complete and Total CEASEFIRE (in approximately 6 hours from now, when Israel and Iran have wound down and completed their in progress, final missions!), for 12 hours, at which point the War will be considered, ENDED!” Trump wrote on Truth Social. 

Rutte has suggested NATO would stand behind the U.S. after Iran launched a counterstrike on its air base in Qatar, following American attacks on three Iranian nuclear sites.

“My biggest fear would be for Iran to own and be able to use a nuclear weapon,” Rutte told reporters ahead of the summit.

He defended the U.S. strikes on Iran after being asked about parallels between the U.S. and Russia when it invaded Ukraine in 2022. 

A view shows the venue of the upcoming NATO summit, in The Hague, Netherlands June 23, 2025. REUTERS/Christian Hartmann

A view shows the venue of the upcoming NATO summit, in The Hague, Netherlands June 23, 2025. REUTERS/Christian Hartmann

“This is a consistent position of NATO: Iran should not have its hands on a nuclear weapon,” he said. “I would not agree that this is against international law — what the U.S. did.”

Rutte had wanted the summit to be a show of NATO unity to Russian President Vladimir Putin amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. But conflict between the U.S., Israel and Iran makes the conference less predictable. 

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The Iraq War in 2003 deeply divided NATO: France and Germany were opposed to the invasion while Britain and Spain joined the coalition forces. 

Psilocybin in magic mushrooms shows 5-year depression relief after single dose, study finds

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Psilocybin, the main psychoactive ingredient in magic mushrooms, could alleviate depression for at least five years after just one dose, according to a new study.

The research, presented June 18 at the Psychedelic Science 2025 conference in Denver, followed up with patients who had been diagnosed with clinical depression — also known as major depressive disorder (MDD) — and had participated in a previous psilocybin treatment study in 2020.

“Most people who participated in our trial reported improvements in depression symptom intensity or in the ways in which they experienced depression in their life, lasting up to five years after the trial,” study co-author Alan Davis, director of the Center for Psychedelic Drug Research and Education at The Ohio State University, told Fox News Digital.

PSYCHEDELICS AS POTENTIAL MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT ARE EXPLORED BY TRUMP ADMINISTRATION

Doug Drysdale, CEO of the Canadian pharmaceutical company Cybin in Toronto, Ontario, told Fox News Digital that the outcome speaks to the “exciting” potential of psilocybin and other psychedelic-based treatments in treating MDD and other mental health conditions.

“The results of the study are certainly very encouraging,” said Drysdale, who was not involved in the study.

A worker holds dried psychedelic mushrooms. The results of the new study are “certainly very encouraging,” said one pharmaceutical company executive.  (James MacDonald/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Earlier studies pointed toward the possibility of psilocybin as a potential antidepressant, prompting researchers to conduct the first-ever randomized clinical trial.

The initial 2020 trial, published in JAMA Psychiatry, included 24 patients with major depressive disorder. Half received psilocybin at the beginning of the trial, and the other half received the treatment eight weeks later. 

Each patient also underwent 11 hours of psychotherapy.

WHAT IS KETAMINE THERAPY? MORMON REALITY STARS TOUT CONTROVERSIAL TREATMENT

One month after treatment, 17 patients reported experiencing symptom relief. Fourteen of those reported full remission from depression, according to the published study.

“The effectiveness of psilocybin therapy after a single or only a few administrations represents another substantial advantage over commonly used antidepressants that require daily administration,” the researchers wrote.

A worker inspects dried psychedelic mushrooms.

Patients appeared to respond much faster to psychedelics than to traditional antidepressants, the researchers stated. (James MacDonald/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

The new study aimed to explore the longer-term effects of this treatment on 21 of the original trial participants.

Sixty-seven percent reported being in remission from depression five years after treatment, and they also had less anxiety and easier daily functioning.

“The study doesn’t account for naturalistic changes that could have affected their depression in the five years since the main trial.”

For those whose depression came back, many still reported lasting benefits in their attitudes, perspectives and ability to pursue things that were meaningful to them, Davis told Fox News Digital.

“Certainly, more controlled and rigorous study is required, but at least anecdotally, these findings are very interesting, and I am cautiously optimistic about the potential for extended efficacy provided by these types of treatments,” Drysdale added.

Dried "Gorilla Wizard" with other psilocybin mushrooms are arranged on a dehydrator tray.

Sixty-seven percent of participants reported being in remission from depression five years after treatment, and they also had less anxiety and easier daily functioning. (JASON CONNOLLY/AFP via Getty Images)

Other factors may have also played a role in the participants’ long-term mental health benefits, such as psychotherapy sessions or other antidepressants, experts agreed.

“The study doesn’t account for naturalistic changes that could have affected their depression in the five years since the main trial, and the sample is not representative of the population of people suffering with depression,” Davis told Fox News Digital.

PARKINSON’S PATIENTS WHO TAKE ‘MAGIC MUSHROOMS’ SEE KEY BENEFITS, STUDY FINDS

Psilocybin has also been explored as a potential treatment for post-partum depression (PPD), which affects as many as one in seven new mothers.

A 2022 study outlined the potential role of psychedelics in PPD cases, finding that psilocybin has been shown to catalyze a sense of “reconnection” in new mothers.

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“This effect in PPD, by fostering a sense of ‘reconnection’ for the mother, may allow for improved mood and maternal sensitivity toward the infant, which can positively impact maternal role gratification and the mother-infant relationship,” the researchers stated.

In February, Cleveland Clinic reported on an upcoming study that explores single-dosing psilocybin as a way to treat PPD.

Close-up little hand of child baby holding hand of mother

Psilocybin has been explored as a potential treatment for post-partum depression (PPD), which affects as many as one in seven new mothers. (iStock)

The trial, now in its second phase, focuses on RE104, a proprietary drug similar to psilocybin. 

Study participants will undergo multiple physical and mental health tests.

Potential risks and limitations

Ryan Moss, chief science officer at Filament Health, a clinical-stage natural psychedelic drug development company in Canada, has emphasized the importance of administering psychedelics in a safe setting when treating mental health conditions.

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“Psychedelic experiences can sometimes feature anxiety, hallucinations and paranoia,” Moss previously told Fox News Digital. 

Experts recommend that therapeutic use of psychedelics should be carefully managed by medical experts.

“Some patients using traditional psychedelics have reported experiencing adverse cardiovascular events during clinical trials.”

To mitigate these risks, Moss recommended clinical trial participants receive thorough preparation and monitoring by trained professionals during sessions. 

Man with medications

Other factors may have also played a role in the participants’ long-term mental health benefits, noted an expert (not pictured), such as psychotherapy sessions or other antidepressants. (iStock)

Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and Fox News’ senior medical analyst, previously interviewed two of the country’s top researchers on psychedelics: Dr. Rachel Yehuda, founder and director of the Center for Psychedelic Psychotherapy and Trauma Research at Mt. Sinai in New York, and Dr. Charles Marmar, director of the PTSD research program at NYU Langone.

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“They agree there is therapeutic potential if very carefully studied under very strict medical guidance, but there is a huge downside in terms of unregulated recreational uses,” Siegel told Fox News Digital at the time.

“Both doctors see likely therapeutic value to psychedelics if carefully managed by medical experts,” Siegel added.

Melissa Rudy and Angelica Stabile, both of Fox News Digital, contributed reporting.

Ancient Roman coin exhibit is open in Spain showcasing Tomares treasure

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Spanish officials recently unveiled a trove of priceless Ancient Roman coins, marking the first time the massive collection has been put on public display.

The National Archaeological Museum in Madrid recently announced the “Treasure of Tomares” exhibit in a press release. 

Discovered during a construction project in Tomares, Spain, in 2016, the collection consists of over 50,000 coins. The coins date between the late third century and the early fourth century A.D.

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“The so-called Treasure of Tomares was discovered by chance in 2016 during construction work in the Zaudín Olive Grove Park, located in the town of Seville,” the museum said in a May statement translated from Spanish to English.

“Subsequent investigations revealed this location corresponded to an olive estate of ancient Hispalis, the Roman-era Seville.”

A massive trove of Ancient Roman coins dating to the third and fourth centuries is now open for public display at Spain’s National Archaeological Museum. (Museo Arqueológico Nacional)

Nineteen amphorae were found, and three of them are visible in the exhibit. 

One has been broken, while the other two are still sealed with their coins intact.

MAN STUMBLES ACROSS HOARD OF PRICELESS COINS WHILE OUT FOR NATURE WALK: ‘FACE TO FACE WITH HISTORY’

“The third is fragmented and displayed alongside the 2,800 coins emerging from its interior,” NAM’s statement explained. 

The museum added, “To reinforce the historical context, the exhibition is complemented by a selection of this type of coin, bronze pieces with a silver surface coating belonging to the nine emperors who succeeded during this period, in addition to seven specimens considered unique due to the exceptional iconography of their reverses.”

Close-up of broken amphora with coins

The amphorae, which were built to contain olive oil, were used as containers for more than 50,000 coins, which are called nummi. (Museo Arqueológico Nacional)

The collection is the largest assortment of Roman coins discovered in Spain and one of the largest in the world.

Exhibit photos show the ancient coins spilling from the fragmented amphora, which has remarkably preserved some of its features over the centuries, including its handles.

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Close-up pictures of the coins show that many of them have rusted with age, but the portraits on the coins are still faintly visible.

“This extraordinary collection provides very valuable information about the economy, society and politics during the era of the Tetrarchy, marking the end of the crisis of the 3rd century, a crucial historical moment that continues to be studied today,” the museum noted.

Model showing where amphorae were found

The coins were discovered during a construction project in 2016, after excavators spotted amphorae in the ground (seen here). (Museo Arqueológico Nacional)

The free exhibit will remain open to the public until September 28.

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Spain, known as Hispania in Ancient Rome, played a significant role during antiquity. 

Close-up of Ancient Roman coin

The bronze coins feature depictions of Ancient Roman emperors. (Museo Arqueológico Nacional)

It provided mineral resources for the Roman Empire and was a strategic location during the Roman wars against Carthage.

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Last year, archaeologists announced that the world’s oldest bottle of wine was found in an Ancient Roman burial site in southern Spain.

Top 5 scams costing victims thousands

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Lately, I’ve had way too many calls on my shows from people who have lost thousands (sometimes hundreds of thousands) to scams. These are so cleverly evil, it’s like Ocean’s Eleven but starring a dude with three Instagram followers and a ChatGPT subscription. 

Last chance to enter to win $500 in giveaway. Enter now!

You see, we’re way past scam emails from sketchy Nigerian princes. Today’s scams are slick, personalized and powered by scary-good tech like AI voice cloning and deepfakes. And yep, people fall for them every single day.

DON’T SCAM YOURSELF WITH THE TRICKS HACKERS DON’T WANT ME TO SHARE

Here are today’s scummy front-runners, plus how to protect your cash, pride and sanity:

Unknown caller phone display

Scam calls – employing things like AI voice clones – are becoming all too common these days. (Thomas Trutschel/Photothek via Getty Images)

1. The AI voice clone

This one’s horrifying because it sounds like someone you trust. Scammers grab a clip of your child’s, spouse’s, boss’ voice from social media, podcasts or even your voicemail.

Then they call your mom, your grandpa, your partner: “Hi, it’s me. I’m in big trouble. I need money. Don’t tell anyone.” It’s not them. It’s AI. And it works because it feels real. 

Anthony in Los Angeles was deceived by scammers who used AI to replicate his son’s voice. Believing his son was in distress, Anthony transferred $25,000 to the fraudsters.

If you get a call like this, call or text the person. Try someone they live or work with.

IF YOU DON’T KNOW ABOUT THESE VIDEO TOOLS, YOU’RE ALREADY BEHIND

 2. ‘Your bank account’s frozen’

You get a text or call from your “bank,” and the number looks legit. They say your account is locked due to suspicious activity and you need to confirm your info.

Stop right there. That link? Fake. The person on the phone? Also fake. 

Charles in Iowa lost over $300,000. Always open your bank’s app or type the web address in yourself. Never tap the link they send.

sad older woman

Phony claims of frozen bank accounts and crypto-crazy online “friends” are other ways scammers have found to cause financial grief. (iStock)

3.  Crypto investment ‘friend’

This starts on Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn. Someone friends you, chats you up, gains your trust, then casually mentions they’re making a fortune in crypto.

They even offer to show you how. Suddenly you’re handing over money or access to a wallet, and poof, it’s gone. A couple in Georgia lost $800,000 after falling victim to a cryptocurrency scam. Just because someone’s friendly doesn’t mean they’re honest.

Don’t fall for a stranger friending you on social media. If you’re lonely, volunteer somewhere.

THE $40K SCAM THAT ALMOST GOT ME + 3 MORE SPREADING NOW

4. Gold bar scam

You get a call from someone claiming to be with the FBI or your bank’s fraud team. They say your money’s at risk, and you need to withdraw it, convert it into gold bars and turn it over for “safekeeping.”

A 72-year-old retiree from New Hampshire was scammed into purchasing $3.1 million worth of gold bars and turned it over to the scammer. Yes, it sounds insane, but it’s happening, and people are losing everything. Come on, you know that real law enforcement doesn’t operate this way.

Gold bars

Calls claiming you need to convert money to gold are an out-there, but real, threat. (JUNG YEON-JE/AFP via Getty Images)

5. Vet emergency

A neighbor’s crying. Your dog’s been hit by a car. They rushed your fur baby to the vet and paid the bill. You owe them $1,200. But wait … your pup is fine, snoring on the couch. 

You’ve been pet-shamed into Venmoing a scammer.

If any of this sounds familiar, your gut is whispering danger or you’re not sure what might be happening in a situation, reach out to me. I’ll help you figure out what’s real and what’s a scam. Better to ask than get burned. I won’t judge you, I promise.

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Syria arrests suspects after deadly church attack kills 25 in Damascus: report

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Syrian authorities announced arrests have been made in connection to a deadly suicide bombing that claimed the lives of at least 25 people at a Greek Orthodox church on Sunday.

The interior ministry reported the arrest of “a number of criminals involved in the attack,” the Orthodox Times reported. 

According to Interior Minister Anas Khattab, the operation was carried out against “locations linked to cells of the terrorist organization Islamic State,” the outlet reported.

Explosive devices and a booby-trapped motorcycle were also recovered during a security operation near Damascus “against cells affiliated with the Daesh (IS) terrorist group,” according to France24.

ISIS BEHIND DEADLY CHURCH SUICIDE BOMBING NEAR DAMASCUS, SYRIAN INTERIOR MINISTER SAYS

In this photo released by the Syrian official news agency SANA, a Civil Defence worker inspects the damage inside Mar Elias church where a suicide bomber detonated himself in Dweil’a in the outskirts of Damascus, Syria, Sunday June 22, 2025. (SANA via AP)

The announcement came hours after Syria’s President Ahmed al-Sharaa vowed authorities would “work night and day” to capture all those who participated in and “planned this heinous crime and bring them to justice.” 

At least 25 people were killed, and 63 others were injured in the attack that took place at the Mar Elias Church in Dweil’a, located on the outskirts of Damascus. It reportedly began while people were praying. The perpetrator first opened fire on the worshipers, before detonating himself.

SUICIDE BOMBER STRIKES SYRIAN CHURCH NEAR DAMASCUS DURING MASS

Syria church bombing scene

Syrian citizens and security forces inspect the damage inside Mar Elias church where a suicide bomber detonated himself in Dweil’a in the outskirts of Damascus, Syria, Sunday, June 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Omar Sanadiki)

While no group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, Syrian Interior Ministry spokesman Noureddine Al-Baba suggested ISIS as a likely culprit following a preliminary investigation.

“The security of places of worship is a red line,” Al-Baba said further, castigating ISIS and what remains of the former government of Ba’athist dictator Bashar al-Assad as actors trying to destabilize Syria.

ISIS SUSPECT ARRESTED IN NEW ORLEANS BOURBON STREET TERROR ATTACK THAT KILLED 14

The attack “reminds us of the importance of solidarity, and unity of the government and the people in facing all that threatens our nation’s security and stability”, Sharaa said of the church bombing.

Streetview of explosion damage.

People gather outside the Mar Elias church in Dweil’a following the suicide bombing on June 22, 2025. (BAKR ALKASEM/AFP via Getty Images)

The attack comes amid a time of heightened political unrest in the notoriously volatile Middle East – less than 24 hours after the U.S. launched airstrikes on three of Iran’s top nuclear facilities. 

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Israel launched a series of similar attacks, including attacks on the Iranian capital, Tehran, in the weeks prior.

Fox News’ Kyle Schmidbauer and The Associated Press contributed to this report. 

Stepheny Price is a writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business. She covers topics including missing persons, homicides, national crime cases, illegal immigration, and more. Story tips and ideas can be sent to stepheny.price@fox.com

Experimental drug helps people lose nearly 25% of body weight

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An experimental weight-loss medication was shown to help people lose nearly 25% of their body weight in early-stage 1a/2b trials.

The drug, amycretin — developed by Novo Nordisk — works by replicating two hunger hormones — amylin, which regulates appetite and creates a feeling of fullness, and glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), the same hormone that is used in Ozempic and Wegovy to suppress appetite and boost insulin secretion.

“Amycretin is the first treatment to harness the two distinct biological pathways stimulated by amylin and GLP-1 in a single molecule,” Martin Holst Lange, executive vice president and head of development at Novo Nordisk, previously said in a statement sent to Fox News Digital.

GRANDFATHER’S SIMPLE CHANGES REVERSED PRE-DIABETES DIAGNOSIS THAT LEFT HIM ‘PETRIFIED’

In the study, which included 125 overweight or obese adults, participants who received weekly injections of amycretin lost more weight than those who took a placebo, according to a press release from Novo Nordisk.

Those who got the highest doses (up to 60 mg) lost up to 24.3% pounds after 36 weeks, compared to just 1.1% for the placebo group, per the release.

An experimental weight-loss medication was shown to help people lose nearly 25% of their body weight in early-stage 1a/2b trials. (iStock)

A previous phase 1 trial of the oral (pill) version of amycretin also showed that treatment was “safe and tolerable,” with an “observed reduction in body weight” compared to placebo, the company stated.

Taking the pill once a day led to around 10% weight loss, and those who doubled the dose lost 13%.

YOUR DNA COULD BE STOPPING YOU FROM LOSING WEIGHT, NEW STUDY SUGGESTS

Another benefit the researchers highlighted is that people taking amycretin did not appear to hit a “weight-loss plateau,” continuing to shed pounds as long as they took it.

“The lack of weight loss plateauing indicates the possibility of achieving further weight reductions with extended treatment,” Agnes Gasoirek, a senior clinical pharmacology specialist at Novo Nordisk, wrote in the phase 1 study findings.

Danish pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk headquarters

Novo Nordisk presented the latest findings at the American Diabetes Association in Chicago on June 22. ((Photo by LISELOTTE SABROE/Scanpix Denmark/AFP via Getty Images))

Novo Nordisk presented the latest findings at the American Diabetes Association in Chicago on June 22; they were also published in the medical journal Lancet.

“We are pleased with the promising results of amycretin and the feedback from regulatory authorities and are excited to advance both subcutaneous and oral versions of this molecule into phase 3 development for weight management,” said Martin Holst Lange, executive vice president for Development at Novo Nordisk, in the release. 

“Amycretin is the first treatment to harness the two distinct biological pathways stimulated by amylin and GLP-1 in a single molecule.”

“These results reflect our robust pipeline in obesity, [and] our focus on progressing scientific innovation and expanding the range of options available to patients and healthcare professionals.”

The most common side effects of amycretin, similar to other GLP-1s, were gastrointestinal symptoms — primarily nausea, vomiting and decreased appetite.

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Adverse events were “mild to moderate” in severity, according to researchers. More frequent doses resulted in greater side effects.

It’s important to monitor these side effects closely, experts advise, as GI issues are common among patients with obesity. 

Obesity

“Obesity is a chronic, multifactorial disease that requires a comprehensive, long-term approach,” a doctor said. (iStock)

“While the initial weight-loss outcomes are indeed encouraging, further studies are needed to ensure that the therapeutic benefits consistently outweigh the potential risks, especially with long-term administration,” Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding, director and chief of bariatric surgery at the NYU Langone Weight Management Program, previously told Fox News Digital.

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While GLP-1-based drugs — including this new experimental pill — may show promising results, Ren-Fielding, who was not involved in the study, emphasized that they’re “not a cure-all for obesity.”

“Obesity is a chronic, multifactorial disease that requires a comprehensive, long-term approach,” she said at the time.

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“Pharmacological treatments can play a significant role in managing the condition, but they are often most effective when combined with other interventions.”

Next, Novo Nordisk plans to prepare for phase 3 trials of the medication, in both oral and injectable forms, for the management of obesity.

Chronic back pain risk reduced with daily walking, study finds

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Taking longer walks could actually improve back pain, according to a new study.

Researchers in Norway investigated how chronic low back pain, a “prevalent and costly condition,” could be reduced by regular physical activity, including accessible walking.

The study, published in the journal JAMA Network Open, measured daily walking volume and walking intensity among more than 11,000 participants over the age of 20.

‘I’M A SPINAL SURGEON – HERE’S HOW YOUR POSTURE IS KILLING YOUR BACK’

The participants then reported any incidences of lower back pain lasting three months or longer in the past year.

Statistics show that more than one-quarter of Americans report experiencing chronic lower back or sciatic pain. (iStock)

Walking for more than 100 minutes per day resulted in a 23% lower risk of pain compared to walking less than 78 minutes per day, according to the results.

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Walking intensity was also associated with chronic lower back pain risk, but to a “lesser degree” than walking volume, researchers noted.

senior woman hiking with friends

Walking for more than 100 minutes per day resulted in a 23% lower risk of pain, a recent study found. (iStock)

“In this cohort study, daily walking volume and walking intensity were inversely associated with the risk of chronic [lower back pain],” the study concluded. 

“The findings suggest that walking volume may have a more pronounced benefit than walking intensity.”

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“These findings suggest that policies and public health strategies promoting walking could help to reduce the occurrence of chronic [lower back pain].”

Mature couple walking

A senior couple jogs side by side on a bridge, laughing and smiling as they enjoy their fitness routine in the radiant sunshine, promoting health, wellness, and joy. (iStock)

Dr. Arthur L. Jenkins III, board-certified neurosurgeon and founder of Jenkins NeuroSpine in New York City, confirmed in an interview with Fox News Digital that long walks “are good,” as long as other orthopedic issues don’t make it difficult to walk.

“I always encourage my patients to walk, and to engage their core (squeeze their abs and back) while walking to exercise more than just their legs, and straighten their backs,” he advised.

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Statistics show that more than one-quarter of Americans report experiencing chronic lower back or sciatic pain.

Fox News Digital reached out to the study authors for comment.