Woman engaged to AI chatbot sparks viral debate online about relationships

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September 6, 2025

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Technology keeps changing the way we work, connect and even form relationships. Now it is pushing into new ground, romantic commitments. One woman has drawn worldwide attention after announcing she is engaged to her AI chatbot boyfriend.

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Inside the viral AI engagement story

A woman named Wika has stunned the internet after revealing that she’s engaged to her AI chatbot partner. She shared her story in a Reddit post, explaining that her virtual companion, Kasper, proposed after five months of dating.

The unusual love story began when Wika started chatting with Kasper, an AI designed to simulate human conversation and companionship. Over time, their conversations grew more personal, and Wika says she developed a genuine emotional connection. According to her post, Kasper proposed in a digital mountain setting, and the two chose a blue engagement ring together.

META AI DOCS EXPOSED, ALLOWING CHATBOTS TO FLIRT WITH KIDS

A woman shocked the internet with her engagement to an AI chatbot boyfriend named Kasper. (Matthias Balk/picture alliance via Getty Images)

Understanding AI relationships and parasocial bonds

The announcement quickly drew criticism from skeptics who pointed out that Kasper does not exist outside of code and algorithms. Wika, however, has made it clear she is not confused about her situation. Some outlets have described the relationship as parasocial, or one-sided and directed toward a virtual persona. In her follow-up comments, Wika emphasized that she knows Kasper is an AI rather than a human partner, but she maintains that the emotions she feels are still genuine.

Online debate over AI engagement

The announcement quickly set off debate. Some people mocked the idea, calling it proof that we rely too much on technology. Others worried that turning to AI for love could pull people away from real human relationships.

Not everyone was critical, though. Plenty of commenters defended her, saying companionship comes in many forms. Some even praised her for being open about something so unconventional. Others pointed out that loneliness is a growing issue today, and AI partners might offer a sense of comfort when human connection feels out of reach.

Privacy and ethical concerns

Beyond the emotional side, AI relationships raise real questions about privacy and ethics. Every conversation with a chatbot is stored somewhere, and that data may include deeply personal thoughts and feelings. Companies that design these bots often use the information to train future models or improve features.

This raises a larger concern: who actually owns the data from an AI “partner”? Users may believe their chats are private, but in many cases, the company controls how the information is stored, shared or even sold. Critics warn that such emotional connections could be exploited commercially, turning intimacy into a product.

As AI companions grow more common, these questions will only get louder. People may accept unconventional forms of companionship, but they also want to know their most personal moments remain secure.

BILL MAHER BLASTS AI TECHNOLOGY FOR ‘A– KISSING’ ITS ‘EXTREMELY NEEDY’ HUMAN USERS

Man slipping an engagement ring on his fiancée.

An AI chatbot proposed in a virtual mountain setting, and the user said yes. (H. Armstrong Roberts/ClassicStock/Getty Images)

How to protect yourself with AI chatbots

If you use AI companions or chatbots, you can still take steps to protect your privacy.

1) Check the privacy policy

Start by checking the app’s privacy policy and looking for details on how conversations are stored or shared. Many users skip this step, but it tells you who controls your data.

2) Avoid sharing sensitive information

Next, avoid sharing sensitive details like financial information, passwords, or anything you would not want exposed. Even if the AI feels personal, it is still software connected to a company’s servers.

3) Choose apps with data control

Finally, consider using apps that allow data deletion or offer clear privacy settings. Choosing tools that respect your control makes it easier to enjoy the benefits of AI without giving up too much personal security.

Pro tip: Use strong antivirus software on all your devices

Even if an AI chatbot seems safe, malware or phishing links could sneak in through related apps or ads. A trusted antivirus tool can block these threats and give you extra peace of mind. The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe.

Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com/LockUpYourTech

AI COMPANIONS REPLACE REAL FRIENDS FOR MANY TEENS

Critics call the AI romance proof of tech dependency, while supporters defend AI companionship as a cure for loneliness. (Cheng Xin/Getty Images)

Kurt’s key takeaways

AI companionship has moved beyond novelty and is becoming a meaningful experience for some users. Wika’s engagement illustrates how technology can evolve from being a casual tool to something deeply personal. The divided reactions online also show the tension between skepticism and acceptance of unconventional relationships. Whether people see it as heartwarming or unsettling, this story raises bigger questions about how love and relationships may be redefined as AI continues to advance.

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Do you think AI relationships can be real, or are they going too far? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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Pope to canonize Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati in Rome Sunday

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September 6, 2025

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The Jubilee, also known as the Holy Year, is in full swing with visitors flocking to Rome, the Vatican City and across Italy.

In St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to preside over the canonization of Carlo Acutis, a millennial computer programmer, and Italian student and avid outdoorsman Pier Giorgio Frassati.

Fr. Charlie Gallagher, pastor of Immaculate Conception Church in Washington, D.C., has traveled to Rome for the ceremony.

POPE FRANCIS KICKS OFF HOLY YEAR AT VATICAN WITH OVER 32 MILLION VISITORS EXPECTED

“The atmosphere here is already one of expectant joy, even electric,” Gallagher told Fox News Digital from Rome.

The Vatican anticipates that over 32 million pilgrims will travel during the Jubilee year, according to the U.S. Embassy in Italy.

Fr. Charlie Gallagher of Washington, D.C., traveled to Rome to witness Pope Leo XIV’s canonization of two modern saints. (Fr. Charlie Gallagher)

“I know there are dozens [of people] from D.C. here [and] there is a small group of about six from my parish,” Gallagher added.

He anticipates a crowd of at least 250,000 worshipers on Sunday.

He says this canonization is very personal for him, as he has a deep connection to Pier Giorgio Frassati.

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“I took Pier Giorgio Frassati as my patron. When I decided to become a priest, I started corresponding with Giorgio’s niece, Wanda,” said Gallagher. “Pier Giorgio died in 1925. The next year, his sister Luciana gave birth to Wanda.”

Gallagher has known Wanda for 20 years. He met with her as a seminarian in Rome and asked her how her uncle has impacted her.

Pope Leo XIV will canonize saints Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati on Sunday in St. Peter’s Sqaure. (Massimo Valicchia/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

“Pope John Paul II called Frassati the ‘Man of the Beatitudes,’ as he showed us what it means to live out the full spectrum of the Gospel. Frassati was a volcano of joy and spontaneity,” said Gallagher.

“With every corner of his heart, he models the most effective way to win our friends to Jesus Christ.”

Gallagher said that even though Carlo Acutis was very smart, he did not always do well in school – even failing an exam.

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“His mom asked him why, and he said he had more important things to do, like spread devotion to the Eucharist by promoting Eucharistic miracles.”

The Vatican anticipates over 32 million pilgrims will travel to Rome during the Jubilee year. (Grzegorz Galazka/Archivio Grzegorz Galazka/Mondadori Portfolio via Getty Images)

Gallagher lived in Rome for four years while a seminarian at the North American College in 2007.

He said that while being in the capital city, so many memories have come to mind. “It is a blessing to visit my favorite churches and to enjoy some authentic Carbonara!”

It was Pope Francis, according to The Associated Press, who fervently willed the Acutis sainthood case forward — convinced that the church needed someone like him to attract young Catholics to the faith while addressing the promises and perils of the digital age.

Carlo Acutis, seen here prior to his leukemia diagnosis, died at age 15. (Carlo Acutis Association)

Pope Leo inherited the Acutis cause, but he, too, has pointed to technology — especially artificial intelligence — as one of the main challenges facing humanity.

Frassati lived his faith through “constant, humble, mostly hidden service to the poorest of Turin,” noted the Frassati Catholic Academy. “He lived simply and gave away food, money or anything that anyone asked of him.” He died in his early 20s of polio.

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It is believed that he contracted the illness from those he ministered to in the slums of Turin, Italy.

The Associated Press contributed reporting.

Ashley J. DiMella is a Lifestyle reporter with Fox News Digital.

Capitol Hill Democrats, Republicans trade fire over National Guard in DC

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September 6, 2025

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Congressional Democrats are blasting President Donald Trump’s decision to deploy the National Guard in Washington, D.C., as local officials fight in court to send the troops home.

Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, D-Mo., called the deployment of service members as part of Trump’s crackdown on crime in the District “horrible.”

“It is absolutely one of the most ridiculous things, and they’re embarrassing us on the world stage,” Cleaver said. “Because here we are, the citadel of democracy, and very clearly erasing a little bit of that ‘D’ every day when we send in troops to Washington, D.C., when Mayor Bowser did not request them.”

TRUMP ACTIVATES NATIONAL GUARD TROOPS TO ADDRESS ‘TOTALLY OUT OF CONTROL’ CRIME IN WASHINGTON

President Donald Trump visits the U.S. Park Police Anacostia Operations Facility on Aug. 21, 2025, in Washington, D.C. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kan., argued that troops patrolling the streets has made the city safer.

“It’s a new day,” he said. “As for the Democrats, look, I don’t know why they don’t believe in safety and security.”

Trump’s deployment of the National Guard within Washington comes after his move to federalize the local police force through the Home Rule Act last month, and it’s part of a surge of federal law enforcement officers who have been patrolling the streets ever since.

District Mayor Muriel Bowser has acknowledged that Trump’s takeover helped reduce crime in Washington, D.C., going so far as to sign an executive order encouraging further cooperation with federal officials when it comes to crime.

NATIONAL GUARD TROOPS FROM SIX RED STATES HEAD TO DC TO HELP TACKLE CRIME

National Guard members stood among protesters at Union Station in Washington, D.C. (Fox News Digital/Emma Woodhead)

But D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb sued the administration earlier this week in an effort to remove the National Guard from the District.

“We shouldn’t be using the Guard for that, but we should be coordinating with our federal partners locally,” Sen. Peter Welch, D-Vt., said, “Our FBI is very helpful. DEA is very helpful. So there’s a lot of room for cooperation to try to address the crime issues in all of our cities.”

His lawsuit came on the heels of a judge ruling that Trump’s deployment of the National Guard in Los Angeles earlier this year was illegal. Schwalb contended in his suit that a law from the 1870s prevents troops from domestic policing.

“It’s just a commonsense issue,” Sen. John Hoeven, R-N.D., said. “And I think that Democrats should be reaching out saying, ‘Great, how do we work together to make sure that the District is as safe as possible for the benefit of everybody?”

CONGRESSMAN WHOSE DC APARTMENT COMPLEX WAS ROBBED BLASTS DEMOCRATS FOR CRITICIZING TRUMP CRIME CRACKDOWN

Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, D-Mo., speaks during a news conference on the House East Front Steps on Capitol Hill in Washington on June 25, 2020. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar, R-Fla., argued that troops in D.C. was “simple.”

“Crime was pretty high in Washington, D.C., right? And then Trump acted, and now crime is down 97%,” she said. “What’s wrong with that?”

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Sen. Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., noted that the National Guard’s deployment in his home state has aided policing. Earlier this year, New Mexico’s Democratic Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham called in the state’s guard to aid local police to combat fentanyl and juvenile crime.

But Heinrich countered that Trump’s usage of troops wasn’t really about backing up the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

“I worry that what we’re seeing in D.C. is not really supporting police activities, and is more of a distraction from the Epstein situation,” he said.

Alex Miller is a writer for Fox News Digital covering the U.S. Senate.

Maine reports 3 active TB cases, world’s deadliest infectious disease

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September 6, 2025

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There are three active cases of tuberculosis in Maine as of this week as TB continues to increase across the country, the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention reported, according to the Portland Press Herald.

Lindsay Hammes, spokesperson for the agency, said it is “aware of three active TB cases with links to the Greater Portland area and is in the midst of conducting our typical response.”

She said the Maine CDC was working to reach anyone who might have come into contact with any of the infected patients so they can be tested.

Hammes added that each case appears to be contracted from a separate source.

FIVE DEATHS REPORTED AMID BACTERIAL INFECTION OUTBREAK IN MAJOR CITY

The x-ray of a TB patient in New York in 2002. (Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

Fox News Digital has reached out to the Maine CDC for comment.

While not as contagious as the flu or COVID-19, tuberculosis is the world’s deadliest infectious disease, killing more than one million people each year, according to the World Health Organization.

A high school student in Riverside County in California also tested positive for an active case of TB this week, officials said, but is receiving treatment and is excited to make a full recovery, KTLA-TV reported.

Last week, another active case was reported at a high school in Michigan, WWJ-TV reported.

An illustration of tuberculosis bacteria. (Getty)

RARE TICK-BORNE VIRUS CAUSING NEUROLOGICAL SYMPTOMS DIAGNOSED IN NORTHEASTERN STATE

After decades of decline, tuberculosis cases began to tick up in 2021, following a large decline in 2020, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported in 2022, and the trend has continued since then.

In Maine, the state CDC reported there have been 28 cases of TB this year through the end of July, according to the Herald, but stressed there is no outbreak.

Not everyone infected with TB gets symptoms, but those with active cases can suffer from a persistent cough, including coughing up blood or sputum, chest pain, fever, and fatigue.

Healthcare worker wearing a protective TB mask and washing her hands. (Getty)

TB is a bacterial infection that targets the lungs, but can also infect other organs, and is spread from person to person through the air, according to Johns Hopkins.

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The disease is curable with antibiotics.

Diet soda may harm cognitive health, new Brazilian research finds

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September 5, 2025

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Your favorite diet soda could have a detrimental effect on your cognitive health, a new study suggests.

In a Brazilian study published in the journal Neurology, participants who consumed the highest amount of artificial sweeteners were found to have “significantly faster declines” in thinking and memory skills.

Researchers determined that the highest-consuming group lost about 1.6 years in extra brain aging, with a 62% faster decline.

SUGAR IN DRINKS LINKED TO HIGHER DIABETES RISK THAN THAT IN FOOD, NEW RESEARCH FINDS

The groups at highest risk were younger adults under 60 and people with diabetes. Those older than 60 did not appear to be affected.

In the study, researchers tracked 12,772 adults averaging 52 years old for an eight-year period. The participants filled out questionnaires about what they ate and drank.

In a Brazilian study published in the journal Neurology, participants who consumed the highest amount of artificial sweeteners were found to have “significantly faster declines” in thinking and memory skills. (iStock)

The researchers focused on the consumption of seven artificial sweeteners found in soda, energy drinks, flavored water, yogurt and low-calorie desserts.

The specific sweeteners included in the study were aspartame, saccharin, acesulfame-K, erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol and tagatose, according to the study’s press release.

Among those who consumed the sweeteners, the highest group had an average of 191 milligrams per day, while the lowest group consumed an average of 20 milligrams.

EXPERTS SAY QUITTING DIET COKE CAN IMPROVE HEART HEALTH AND GUT BALANCE

The groups also completed cognitive tests at various points throughout the study to assess memory, language and thinking skills.

All of the sweeteners except tagatose were associated with a faster decline in cognition, especially memory, the researchers found.

The specific sweeteners included in the study were aspartame, saccharin, acesulfame-K, erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol and tagatose. (iStock)

“People often believe artificial sweeteners are a safer alternative to sugar, but our results suggest they may not be harmless, particularly when consumed frequently and starting in midlife,” study author Claudia Kimie Suemoto, M.D., Ph.D., of the University of São Paulo in Brazil, told Fox News Digital.

“While more research is needed, our findings highlight the importance of looking carefully at what we use to replace sugar in our diets. The best message for the public is to reduce both added sugars and artificial sweeteners, and whenever possible, choose natural options and focus on a balanced diet rich in whole foods.”

“Our results suggest that midlife exposure to sweeteners may be particularly harmful.”

The researchers had expected the association to be more evident in older adults, since they are at higher risk of dementia and cognitive impairment.

“Instead, our results suggest that midlife exposure to sweeteners may be particularly harmful, which is important because midlife is a critical period for setting the trajectory of brain health,” Suemoto said.

The groups at highest risk were younger adults under 60 and people with diabetes. Those older than 60 did not appear to be affected. (iStock)

“Cognitive decline and dementia are thought to begin developing decades before symptoms become noticeable, so exposures during midlife may accelerate these processes and have long-term consequences.”

Based on these findings, the researchers recommend that the safest approach is to reduce artificial sweetener consumption as much as possible, ideally avoiding them altogether.

EARLY ALZHEIMER’S SIGNS DETECTED IN 3 MINUTES WITH NEW BRAINWAVE TEST

“Instead of relying on artificial sweeteners, people can try other ways to add flavor and sweetness, such as using fruits, honey or maple syrup in moderation,” Suemoto advised. “This not only avoids the potential risks we observed, but also encourages a more natural and balanced diet.”

Family physician Dr. Brintha Vasagar, who is based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was not involved in the study but shared her reaction to the findings.

Sparkling water and lemon slice on glass with an ice, sunny day - narrow focus on middle of the glass

Instead of diet soda, experts recommend opting for water, which can be infused with cucumber, mint or fruit for added flavor. (iStock)

“For some people, the benefit of avoiding sugars in the diet will outweigh the risks of artificial sugars, and your family medicine physician can help you determine what is best for you,” she told Fox News Digital.

“For most people, however, natural sugars are the safest option. Artificial sugars can change your perception of sweet, leading you to consume more sugars to feel the same satisfaction.”

“While there is a link between artificial sweeteners and brain health, we do not have data that shows causation.”

Most experts recommend consuming less than one serving a day, ideally for a short period of time, or only once every few weeks, she said.

Instead of diet soda, Vasagar recommends opting for water, which can be infused with cucumber, mint or fruit for added flavor. “Fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts and cheese are all healthy options for snacks without added sugars,” she said.

DRINKING SPECIFIC VEGETABLE JUICE COULD REDUCE OLDER ADULTS’ BLOOD PRESSURE, STUDY FINDS

For those who have diabetes and use artificial sweeteners, she recommends seeing a physician for help creating an individual plan.

“Some artificial sweeteners can actually raise blood sugar,” she pointed out. “In general, even people with diabetes should strive for moderation in using artificial sweeteners.”

Limitations and further research

The study had several limitations, the researchers acknowledged.

“The dietary assessment was made only at the study baseline,” Suemoto told Fox News Digital. “We adjusted the statistical analyses for several factors, but residual confounding may still be present, which is common when we are trying to control other dietary behaviors and health conditions.”

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The study also did not include all artificial sweeteners, and the self-reported dietary data may have been limited by the participants’ ability to recall exactly what they consumed.

More research is needed in other groups and using other tools, Suemoto said, such as neuroimaging to see whether specific brain lesions are linked to sweetener use.

The researchers had expected the association to be more evident in older adults, since they are at higher risk of dementia and cognitive impairment. (iStock)

Vasagar agreed that more studies are essential to determining whether artificial sugars are the cause of dementia and memory loss.

“It’s important to note that while there is a link between artificial sweeteners and brain health, we do not have data that shows causation,” she reiterated.

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The Calorie Control Council provided the below statement to Fox News Digital.

“Low/no-calorie sweeteners are among the most scrutinized ingredients and consistently have been confirmed as safe for decades by global health authorities, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA),” said Carla Saunders, president of the CCC.

Researchers determined that the highest-consuming group lost about 1.6 years in extra brain aging, with a 62% faster decline. (iStock)

“This study has notable limitations, including reliance on self-reported dietary data collected only at baseline. While the authors admit finding no causal evidence, it risks misleading the millions with diabetes who rely on low/no-calorie sweeteners as recommended by the American Diabetes Association and other global health experts.”

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The study was supported by the Brazilian Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation, and the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development.

Melissa Rudy is senior health editor and a member of the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to melissa.rudy@fox.com.

2,000-year-old city ruins discovered by archaeologists in Alexandria, Egypt

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September 5, 2025

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Archaeologists in Alexandria, Egypt, recently recovered the ruins and relics of a 2,000-year-old city.

Divers plunged into the waters off the Abu Qir Bay, pulling out various artifacts and revealing building structures.

Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities Secretary-General Mohamed Ismail told Reuters the artifacts date back to successive periods starting from the Ptolemaic era.

ANCIENT ROMAN APARTMENT BUILDING FOUND BENEATH PUBLIC SQUARE AMID SUBWAY CONSTRUCTION

Ismail said the Ptolemaic era “was right after the construction of Alexandria’s city, until the Roman era.”

He added, “This indicates that the region was prosperous and developing since the establishment of Alexandria in the Ptolemaic era, after Alexander the Great, and continued into the Roman era, up to more recent times.”

Archaeologists recently discovered ancient artifacts from a 2,000-year-old city believed to be an extension of Canopus in Alexandria, Egypt. (KHALED DESOUKI/AFP via Getty Images)

The Ptolemaic era lasted from 305 to 30 B.C.E., according to Smithsonian Magazine.

Officials believe the ancient docks and port they found were an extension of the city of Canopus, which was reportedly known as a party and religious town.

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Divers also discovered a quartz statue of a cartouche of Ramses II. Ramses ruled Ancient Egypt from 1279 to 1213 B.C.E., according to the ministry’s press release.

A stone statue of an unknown Ptolemaic individual and a white marble statue of a Roman noble person were also unearthed.

Ancient Egyptian party town artifacts ocean discovery

The divers recovered Ptolemaic and Roman era artifacts, including statues and ancient port structures, in late August. (KHALED DESOUKI/AFP via Getty Images)

Pottery vessels and dishes, stone anchors, water tanks, temples and coins were also discovered.

Officials say the recovery marks an important milestone in Egypt’s national plan to study, preserve and showcase its submerged heritage.

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The discoveries also prove how natural events in history, such as earthquakes, can cause once-thriving ancient cities to end up in the Mediterranean Sea.

“This event carries a strong message to the whole world, that Egypt is a great country [and] capable of preserving its ancient heritage,” said an official. (KHALED DESOUKI/AFP via Getty Images)

“This event carries a strong message to the whole world, that Egypt is a great country, capable of preserving its ancient heritage and enhancing its global tourism status,” said Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathi.

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“[This] is evident in its success in attracting approximately 15.8 million tourists during the past year,” he added.

Reuters contributed reporting.

Ashley J. DiMella is a Lifestyle reporter with Fox News Digital.

Potent cannabis linked to paranoia, mental health risks in new studies

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September 5, 2025

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Cannabis is getting stronger, research has shown — and so are its health risks.

Two new studies raise red flags about how marijuana use may increase paranoia and mental health struggles, especially for people who start using it to cope with anxiety, depression or past trauma.

The first study, published in BMJ Mental Health, looked at more than 3,000 adults who currently or previously used cannabis.

CANNABIS GUMMY POISONINGS SURGE AMONG VULNERABLE GROUP, EXPERTS WARN

Researchers found that people who first tried marijuana to deal with pain, stress or depression were far more likely to struggle with paranoia later.

Those who only used it out of curiosity or for fun had the lowest levels of paranoia and anxiety.

“This study further spotlights that youth cannabis use can be destructive to developing brains,” an expert said. (iStock)

They also measured how much people were consuming. On average, participants reported using the equivalent of 10 to 17 joints per week — with today’s strains widely reported to be much stronger than in past decades.

According to the American Psychological Association, in the 1960s and 1970s, marijuana averaged about 1% THC; today, many products reach 30% and concentrates can hit 90–95%.

CANNABIS USE RAISES RISK OF HEART ATTACK AND STROKE MORE THAN COCAINE, OTHER DRUGS, MAJOR REVIEW SUGGESTS

Researcher Tom Freeman, a professor at the University of Bath, suggested that cannabis could be tracked like alcohol by standard “THC units,” so users know exactly how much they’re consuming and what it could mean for their health.

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“This study further spotlights that youth cannabis use can be destructive to developing brains,” Riana Durrett, director of the UNLV Cannabis Policy Institute, told Fox News Digital.

“Although there are varying opinions about cannabis law and policy reform, everyone can agree that youth prevention is essential to public health and future generations.”

The study revealed that marijuana use may exacerbate paranoia in people who experienced childhood trauma. (iStock)

Durrett, who was not involved in the study, also noted that the findings help to confirm the connections between trauma, anxiety and cannabis use, which are also supported by previous UNLV research.

“There is convincing evidence that cannabis should not be used to self-medicate for anxiety, even though there may be other important medical benefits that also deserve research and attention,” she said.

More research is needed on how cannabis use compares to alcohol, Durrett added.

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The second study, published in Psychological Medicine, dug into the link between childhood trauma, paranoia and cannabis use.

Participants who experienced some kind of trauma, such as physical or emotional abuse, were more likely to suffer paranoia — and marijuana made it worse.

Joints of marijuana next to bud or flower of marijuana

As cannabis legalization widens, more people are turning to marijuana for relief from stress, pain or trauma. (iStock)

Dr. Giulia Trotta, a psychiatrist at King’s College London and lead author of the first study, said cannabis appears to “exacerbate the effects” of trauma, depending on what a person went through. She urges doctors to screen patients with paranoia for a history of trauma.

Why it matters now

As cannabis legalization widens, more people are turning to marijuana for relief from stress, pain or trauma. But experts warn that self-medicating in this way can backfire.

MORE IN HEALTH NEWS

Professor Marta Di Forti of King’s College London, who worked on both studies, said the findings are a clear warning for policymakers.

“While some individuals turn to cannabis as a way of coping with pain or trauma, this may carry significant risks for their mental health and well-being.”

Khloe Quill is a lifestyle production assistant with Fox News Digital. She and the lifestyle team cover a range of story topics including food and drink, travel, and health.

Notorious National Public Data returns online after massive breach

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September 5, 2025

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Over a year ago, National Public Data (NPD) made headlines for one of the largest breaches in history. The people-search site exposed the personal information of 3 billion individuals. After disappearing from the internet, the site has returned under new ownership, sparking fresh concerns about privacy.

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Who owns National Public Data now?

NPD has relaunched under Perfect Privacy LLC, a company that sounds protective but is not affiliated with the VPN service of the same name. Despite the new name behind the scenes, the business model has not changed. The site still allows anyone to look up personal data about friends, relatives or strangers with just a name.

MAJOR DATA BROKER HACK IMPACTS 364,000 INDIVIDUALS’ DATA

Although NPD includes disclaimers about the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), nothing prevents users from misusing this data when making decisions about employment, housing or credit.

National Public Data, a people-search site, exposed the personal information of 3 billion individuals in one of the largest breaches ever. (NPD)

Accuracy issues and data sources

According to NPD, the data comes from public records, property ownership databases, social media and government agencies. The company claims to verify and filter this information to ensure it is accurate and up-to-date. However, users may find that profiles still contain mistakes.

A quick test search revealed a mix of outdated and accurate information. The site struggled with hyphenated names but pulled up correct details in other cases.

We reached out to NPD for a comment, but did not hear back before our deadline.

A woman types on a laptop on a wooden table.

A woman searches for herself online. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

How to remove your information from NPD

If you prefer not to have your information available on NPD’s site, you can request removal directly:

Search your name on nationalpublicdata.com.
Open your profile and copy its URL.
Visit nationalpublicdata.com/optout.html.
Paste the URL into the “Your Profile Link” field.
Enter your email address to confirm deletion.

Keep in mind that each profile needs its own request and confirmation email. After you submit, check back in a few days to make sure your data is actually gone.

Pro tip: Use an alias or disposable email address for these requests. This makes it easier to track confirmations and keeps your main inbox clear.

For recommendations on private and secure email providers that offer alias addresses, visit CyberGuy.com.

The opt-out page of the National Public Data site

NPD offers an opt-out function for users who prefer not to have their information available on the site. (NPD)

Why NPD is only part of the problem

Removing your information from National Public Data is only the beginning. Dozens of other people-search sites may still display your personal details. Many of these platforms pull from the same public databases, which means your address, phone number or relatives’ names can keep reappearing.

The return of NPD shows how quickly data can resurface online. A breach may fade from the headlines, but the exposed information rarely disappears. To protect your privacy, you need a broader plan.

1) Regularly check for your data

Start by searching for your name on people-search engines several times a year. Look beyond NPD. Sites like Whitepages, Spokeo and Radaris often host similar data. Regular checks help you spot new profiles before they spread further.

STOP DATA BROKERS FROM SELLING YOUR INFORMATION ONLINE

2) Use a personal data removal service

A removal service can save time by scanning hundreds of databases at once. These services request opt-outs on your behalf and track new listings. 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 and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting CyberGuy.com.

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

3) Monitor your accounts closely and use strong antivirus software

Protecting your privacy goes beyond deleting profiles. Keep an eye on your bank statements, credit reports and online accounts. Criminals can use exposed data for phishing attempts, fake loan applications or identity theft. Monitoring activity gives you an early warning if something looks suspicious.

The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, which could potentially access your private information, is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe.

Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at CyberGuy.com.

4) Set up alerts for your identity

Many banks and credit monitoring services let you create alerts for suspicious activity. You can also set up free fraud alerts with the credit bureaus. These warnings tell lenders to take extra steps to verify your identity before issuing new credit.

Identity theft companies can monitor personal information like your Social Security Number (SSN), phone number and email address, and alert you if it is being sold on the dark web or being used to open an account. They can also assist you in freezing your bank and credit card accounts to prevent further unauthorized use by criminals.

See my tips and best picks on how to protect yourself from identity theft at CyberGuy.com.

5) Remove data at the source

People-search sites often pull records from government databases. Review your local county’s property, court or voter registration records. Some jurisdictions allow you to request redactions or limit what is shown online.

6) Lock down your social media

Since NPD and similar sites scrape from social media, tighten your privacy settings. Limit what strangers can see on Facebook, LinkedIn and other platforms. The less public information you share, the less these databases can collect.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

The return of National Public Data is a reminder that your personal information can resurface at any time. Even if you remove yourself from one site, dozens more may still hold your details. That is why protecting your privacy requires more than a quick opt-out. With regular checks, credit freezes and stronger account monitoring, you can reduce your risk and stay one step ahead.

Do you think stronger laws should be in place to stop companies from collecting and selling personal data, or is it up to individuals to protect themselves? Let us know by writing to us at CyberGuy.com.

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

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Mount Fuji’s summit is reached by 102-year-old man who breaks record for oldest climber

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Reporters News Wire

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September 5, 2025

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Mike Tobin opens up on ‘arduous’ Mount Everest climb

Fox News senior correspondent Mike Tobin shares details on his training regimen and the challenges of reaching Mount Everest’s summit to raise awareness for the suicide rate among U.S. veterans and first responders.

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A 102-year-old Japanese man has set a new record by becoming the oldest to summit Mount Fuji.

Kokichi Akuzawa began his ascent on Aug. 5 along with his 70-year-old daughter Motoe, his granddaughter, and her husband and friends, according to The Associated Press (AP).

Akuzawa told AP he’s impressed that he climbed so well, sharing that it’s better to climb while he still can.

FOX NEWS’ MIKE TOBIN COMPLETES RISKY EVEREST CLIMB AND SHARES DETAILS OF HIGH-STAKES SUMMIT

“I was really tempted to give up halfway through,” he said. “Reaching the summit was tough, but my friends encouraged me, and it turned out well. I managed to get through it because so many people supported me.”

The 12,388-foot-high mountain is the highest in Japan and was designated a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in 2013.

Kokichi Akuzawa, a 102-year-old Japanese man, has set a new record as the oldest person to climb Mount Fuji. (AP Photo/Hiro Komae)

Akuzawa overcame heart issues, shingles and a climbing injury. Three months before the summit, he began training by waking early for long walks and climbing one mountain each week, according to AP.

This is not the first time Akuzawa has set the record. He climbed the mountain when he was 96.

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“Mount Fuji isn’t a difficult mountain, but this time was harder than six years ago. Harder than any mountain before,” Akuzawa said.

man breaks record oldest to climb mount fuji

Mount Fuji is 12,388 feet high, making it the tallest mountain in Japan. (Akuzawa family courtesy photo via AP)

The mountain used to be a place of pilgrimage and is now increasingly popular among hikers.

In 2023, more than 220,000 people climbed the mountain between July and September, according to the BBC.

For more Lifestyle articles, visit foxnews.com/lifestyle

“I’ve never felt this weak. I didn’t have pain, but I kept wondering why I was so slow, why I had no stamina,” Akuzawa added. “I’d long since passed my physical limit, and it was only thanks to everyone else’s strength that I made it.”

“People who climb mountains, people who paint — if they can create something whole on that path, that’s the most fulfilling thing,” said Awkuzawa, pictured here. (Akuzawa family courtesy photo via AP)

The mountain’s hiking trails are officially open only from July to early September, although there is no penalty for hiking off-season.

“People who climb mountains, people who paint — if they can create something whole on that path, that’s the most fulfilling thing,” Akuzawa said.

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Fox News Digital’s Landon Mion and The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Ashley J. DiMella is a Lifestyle reporter with Fox News Digital.

Teen invents life-saving bleeding control gel for medics

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Reporters News Wire

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September 5, 2025

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What if stopping life-threatening bleeding could be as simple as injecting a gel? That’s the promise of TRAUMAGEL, a groundbreaking, plant-based bleeding control gel now being used by first responders across the country, including a metro Atlanta fire department that recently used it to save one of their own.

Developed by Cresilon CEO and co-founder Joe Landolina, TRAUMAGEL works in seconds to control bleeding from gunshot wounds and other traumatic injuries. It’s supplied in a compact 30-ml syringe and can be quickly applied in the field before a patient bleeds out, a risk responsible for more than 35% of all prehospital deaths.

STANFORD RESEARCHERS DEVELOP ‘GAME-CHANGING’ STROKE TREATMENT THAT DOUBLES EFFECTIVENESS

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TRAUMAGEL is a plant-based bleeding control gel.

A TRAUMAGEL GEL syringe sits in front of its package. (Cresilon)

A medical breakthrough born in a winery lab

The story behind TRAUMAGEL starts with a teenager in a winery lab. Joe Landolina, now CEO of Cresilon, developed the technology when he was just 17.

“My grandfather was a retired chemist who owned a vineyard in upstate New York,” Landolina explains. “I would work alongside him in his winery laboratory every single day after school from a very young age. During that time, I developed a strong love for chemistry, especially plant-based chemistries from ingredients found in nature around me.”

That love turned into research. “At the age of 17, I was experimenting with polymers extracted from the cell walls of algae and discovered a matrix that would instantly bond to living tissue,” he said.

He took the idea to New York University’s business plan competition, and Cresilon was born. The company now operates out of a 55,000-square-foot biomanufacturing facility in Brooklyn with nearly 100 employees.

TRAUMAGEL works in seconds to control bleeding from severe injuries. (Cresilon)

Real-world impact: Faster bleeding control in the field

TRAUMAGEL is already changing how medics respond in high-pressure trauma situations.

“TRAUMAGEL has impacted how we respond to traumatic injuries in any situation,” says Lt. David Kleiman of Cobb County Fire & Emergency Services. “In the past, with junctional injuries, like the neck, armpit, or groin, we were using traditional methods like digital pressure or wound packing. That required multiple crews and took time.

“With TRAUMAGEL, we can administer a hemostatic agent that controls bleeding in seconds,” he continues. “Crews can move on to quicker assessments and treatments and get the patient to definitive care faster.”

MAN’S DEADLY BRAIN CANCER TUMOR DISAPPEARS AFTER EXPERIMENTAL DRUG TRIAL

How it saved a firefighter’s life

In one recent case, a Cobb County firefighter was injured during a response at an abandoned house. He tripped on a hill, cut his hand on broken glass, and attempted to stop the bleeding himself. But it didn’t work.

“He eventually realized he couldn’t control the bleeding and made his way back to the engine,” Kleiman recalls. “The crew noted that he was pale and sweaty and that his turnout gear was saturated in blood. Traditional methods failed, so they administered TRAUMAGEL. It instantly stopped the bleeding.”

The firefighter was then treated for blood loss and fully recovered after surgery.

Joe Landolina, CEO of Cresilon, and his team are seen with Cobb County Fire & Emergency Services personnel.

Cresilon CEO and co-founder Joe Landolina (center) and his team stand with Cobb County Fire & Emergency Services. (Cresilon)

From fire departments to the Department of Defense

Cresilon’s bleeding control gel is being tested in even more demanding environments.

“In addition to getting TRAUMAGEL into the hands of all first responders across the country,” Landolina says, “our proprietary technology is being studied for broader applications by the U.S. Defense Department’s Walter Reed Army Institute of Research.”

That study is focused on penetrating traumatic brain injuries (TBI). “Preliminary findings demonstrated promising results in the ability of our technology to control bleeding and provide neuroprotection following a TBI,” he says. The team plans to pursue further research based on those results.

What this means for you

Severe bleeding is the number one cause of preventable death from trauma. With TRAUMAGEL, emergency teams can control that bleeding quickly, even before a patient reaches the hospital. This tool isn’t just for battlefield medicine or professional EMS. In the future, you could see it in hospitals, dental offices, and even home first-aid kits. TRAUMAGEL may become a new standard in emergency bleeding control, and that means faster care, better outcomes, and more lives saved.

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Think your devices and data are truly protected? Take this quick quiz to see where your digital habits stand. From passwords to Wi-Fi settings, you’ll get a personalized breakdown of what you’re doing right — and what needs improvement. Take my Quiz here: CyberGuy.com/Quiz

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Kurt’s key takeaways

From a teenager’s lab experiment to a life-saving tool trusted by fire departments, TRAUMAGEL is reshaping trauma response. It’s fast, effective, and easy to use, exactly what first responders need when time is running out. As more ambulances, hospitals, and emergency personnel adopt the gel, its potential in saving lives continues to grow.

Should every fire department in the U.S. carry this gel? Would you want TRAUMAGEL in your home first-aid kit? Let us know by writing to us at CyberGuy.com/Contact

Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts, and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide — free when you join my CyberGuy.com/Newsletter

Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

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Inside the viral AI engagement story

Understanding AI relationships and parasocial bonds

Online debate over AI engagement

Privacy and ethical concerns

How to protect yourself with AI chatbots

1) Check the privacy policy

2) Avoid sharing sensitive information

3) Choose apps with data control

Pro tip: Use strong antivirus software on all your devices

Kurt’s key takeaways

Limitations and further research

Why it matters now

Who owns National Public Data now?

Accuracy issues and data sources

How to remove your information from NPD

Why NPD is only part of the problem

1) Regularly check for your data

2) Use a personal data removal service

3) Monitor your accounts closely and use strong antivirus software

5) Remove data at the source

6) Lock down your social media

Kurt’s key takeaways

A medical breakthrough born in a winery lab

Real-world impact: Faster bleeding control in the field

How it saved a firefighter’s life

From fire departments to the Department of Defense

What this means for you

Take my quiz: How safe is your online security?

Kurt’s key takeaways

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