2,000-year-old coin from Jewish rebels discovered in Jerusalem excavation

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August 14, 2025

Biblical-era worship site found in Jerusalem’s City of David

The exceptional structure, dating to the First Temple period, was revealed during excavations conducted by the Israel Antiquities Authority in the City of David. (Credit: Asaf Peri and Emil Aladjem, City of David & the Israel Antiquities Authority.)

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A coin minted by Jewish rebels just before the destruction of the Second Temple – an event Jesus predicted in the Gospels – has been unearthed in Jerusalem.

The 2,000-year-old artifact was found at the Jerusalem Archaeological Park, located in the Old City and just a stone’s throw away from the Temple Mount.

The discovery was announced by the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) on July 31, just days before Tisha B’Av – the Jewish day of mourning that marks the Romans’ destruction of the Temple, near where the coin was found.

ANCIENT ROMAN COIN TREASURE FINALLY REVEALED TO PUBLIC AFTER BEING HIDDEN FOR CENTURIES

“The obverse side of the coin carries the inscription in ancient Hebrew script: ‘For the Redemption of Zion’ – expressing the heartfelt desire of Jerusalem‘s Jews, toward the end of the revolt,” the IAA noted.

The bronze coin was minted by ancient Jews between 69 and 70 A.D. The IAA said it was found near the southwest corner of the Temple Mount.

A rare bronze coin from the final year of the Jewish revolt was uncovered at the Jerusalem Archaeological Park. (Eliyahu Yanai, City of David; Reut Vilf, City of David)

The coin was discovered by Yaniv David Levy, a coin specialist with the IAA, who described its state of preservation as “quite good.”

“From the looks of it, [we thought] it might be a rare coin.”

“On its reverse is a lulav, a palm frond used in the Sukkot festival ritual,” Levy said.

“Next to it are two etrogs, the citron used in that same ritual.”

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

He noted, “The [Year Four] inscription denotes the number of years since the outbreak of the rebellion and allows us to accurately date the coin to the period between the Hebrew month of Nissan (March-April) of the year 69 CE, and the month of Adar (February-March) of the year 70 CE.”

Speaking about her experience during the excavation, archaeologist Esther Rakow-Mellet told the IAA she had a feeling it was an unusual discovery.

“From the looks of it, [we thought] it might be a rare coin,” Rakow-Mellet recalled.

“We waited anxiously for several days until it came back from cleaning, and it turned out that it was a greeting from the Jewish rebels in Year Four of the Great Revolt.”

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She also noted the striking timing of the discovery, just days before Tisha B’Av.

“Two thousand years after the minting of this coin … [we found] such a moving testimony to that great destruction, and I think there is nothing more symbolic,” said Rakow-Mellet.

Archaeologist Esther Rakow-Mellet, pictured, said she had a strong feeling the coin was a rare and meaningful find. (Asaf Peri, City of David)

The IAA noted that Year Four coins are “relatively rare,” since they were minted toward the end of the revolt when rebels had reduced production capabilities.

Excavation director Yuval Baruch said the coin’s inscription “indicates a profound change of identity and mindset, and perhaps also reflects the desperate situation of the rebel forces.”

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“It would seem that in the rebellion’s fourth year, the mood of the rebels now besieged in Jerusalem changed from euphoria and anticipation of freedom at hand, to a dispirited mood and a yearning for redemption,” the archaeologist observed.

The coin will be put on display at the Jay and Jeanie Schottenstein National Campus for the Archaeology of Israel in Jerusalem.

Archaeological excavation where coin was found

Archaeologists unearthed the coin just days before Tisha B’Av, a day of mourning for the Temple’s destruction. (Eliyahu Yanai, City of David)

The recent discovery is one of many archaeological finds made in Jerusalem this year: an ancient garden was recently found at the holiest site in Christianity, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

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In the Room of the Last Supper, located on Mount Zion in Jerusalem, centuries-old inscriptions have also recently resurfaced.

Fox News Digital’s Ashley DiMella contributed reporting.

New study finds 12-3-30 treadmill workout burns more fat than running

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August 13, 2025

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A fitness trend that took TikTok by storm, racking up more than 14 million views, may have some science behind it.

The 12-3-30 treadmill workout, popularized by influencer Lauren Giraldo, promises a fat-burning, low-impact fitness solution: Walk at a 12% incline, at a pace of three miles per hour, for 30 minutes.

But how does it compare to regular running?

FORGET 10,000 STEPS — RESEARCH REVEALS THE REAL NUMBER YOU NEED FOR BETTER HEALTH

A new peer-reviewed study published in the International Journal of Exercise Science compares the 12-3-30 trend to “self-paced” treadmill running.

Researchers sought to determine not just how many calories each method burns, but how the body fuels each workout — specifically, whether the body uses carbohydrates or fat as fuel.

The 12-3-30 treadmill workout promises a fat-burning, low-impact fitness solution: Walk at a 12% incline, at a pace of three miles per hour, for 30 minutes. (iStock)

In the study, 16 healthy young adults (male and female) participated in two workouts: one session of 12-3-30 and one session of running at a pace they could maintain for about 20 to 25 minutes.

Both workouts were adjusted to burn the same total number of calories.

SIMPLE JAPANESE FITNESS TREND COULD ADD 7 YEARS TO LIFE EXPECTANCY, EXPERTS SAY

The researchers discovered that 12-3-30 took longer to complete than running to achieve the same output.

Running burned calories faster — roughly 13 calories per minute versus 10 calories per minute for 12-3-30.

Maelee Wells Sutton, a certified personal trainer at Crunch Fitness in New York, told Fox News Digital that it is “no surprise” calories are burned faster during a workout with higher aerobic intensity.

A woman working out indoors on a treadmill, she is wearing a green tank top and smiling - we see her from the chest up.

The 12-3-30 method has its benefits, particularly for beginners or those with joint concerns, despite it taking longer than traditional running to burn the same amount of calories. (iStock)

“Walking at 12-3-30 is certainly more intense than walking on a flat surface, but is less intense than a run,” she said.

However, 12-3-30 used more fat as a fuel source — about 41% of energy came from fat, compared to 33% during running. Running also relied more heavily on carbohydrates for energy.

Potential limitations

The participants in the study were already exercising at least three times a week for the last three months, according to Sutton.

“That means [the study] doesn’t consider less active individuals, who actually make up a large percentage of the population,” she said. “Essentially, we can’t draw conclusions about how the average person’s body may adapt to these workouts over time.”

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The researchers emphasized that the actual fat-burning advantage of 12-3-30 is modest. Total calories burned still matter more for weight loss than whether you’re burning fat or carbs.

“This study confirms what exercise science has already known: the ‘fat-burning’ percentage of a workout is not the same as total calorie burn,” Sutton added.

Older man running on a treadmill while smiling. Large window behind him.

Running burned calories faster, the study found — roughly 13 calories per minute versus 10 calories per minute for 12-3-30. (iStock)

Which is better?

If you’re short on time and want to burn a certain number of calories quickly, running seems to be more efficient.

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But if your goal is to burn more fat, and you prefer a lower-impact workout, the 12-3-30 method has its benefits, particularly for beginners or those with joint concerns, the study suggests.

The most important thing with exercise is consistency, according to Sutton.

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“If a person dislikes running but loves 12-3-30, it’s far better to do that consistently than to force a certain workout that a person rarely completes,” she said.

“Trends should be viewed through both a scientific and personal lens — look to experts for guidance rather than relying on social media.”

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.

Afghanistan touts its tourism industry as young influencers visit the Taliban-run country

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August 13, 2025

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Nearly four years after Afghanistan fell to Taliban control, the Islamic country is continuing to welcome tourists and seeing a recent travel boost.

Taliban forces captured the capital city of Kabul on Aug. 15, 2021, following the chaotic withdrawal of American troops under the Biden administration.

Deputy Minister of Tourism Qudratullah Jamal told The Associated Press (AP) recently that Afghanistan had nearly 9,000 foreign visitors last year, with 3,000 tourists in the first three months of this year.

“Tourism brings many benefits to a country,” he said. “We have considered those benefits and aim for our nation to take full advantage of them.”

AMERICANS TARGETED IN MEXICO CITY AS LOCALS PROTEST AGAINST TOURISM AND SOARING RENTS

One of the first Afghan female tour guides recently led a group through the National Museum of Afghanistan – the group consisted of all women.

Suzanne Sandral, an Australian in the group, told AP she was surprised. “It’s not what I expected at all. I expected to feel rather fearful. I expected to be given a lot of … accusatory looks. Not at all.”

One of the first Afghan female tour guides led a group through the National Museum of Afghanistan recently – and the group consisted of all women, as shown above. (AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi)

She said, “Wherever you go in the streets, if you smile at someone and give them a little nod or say hello, you get a terrific response. So it’s very different.”

Another woman in the group posted videos of her recent trip in June on TikTok. She captioned a video, “Exploring the nuanced and complex lives of Afghan women in context, and exploring all this beautiful land has to offer.”

The U.S. Department of State, however, is very clear. It lists travel to Afghanistan as “Travel Advisory Level 4: Do Not Travel” — warning of civil unrest, crime, terrorism, risk of wrongful detention, kidnapping and limited health facilities.

DANGEROUS TRAVEL FOR THE ‘ADDED THRILL’ IS ON THE RISE AS VISITORS FLOCK TO HIGH-RISK COUNTRIES

“U.S. citizen travelers to Afghanistan have been wrongfully detained for months or even years,” said a spokesperson. “We remind all U.S. citizen travelers that no adventure or vacation is worth the price of your freedom.”

Other traveler influencers and regular tourists have shared their experiences on social media – with most showing the Taliban-run country in a positive light.

taliban promotes tourism as all female group travels to afghanistan

“What these female influencers experience is not representative of women’s lives in Afghanistan.” (AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi)

A travel photographer posted a recap of her trip, saying she was “one of the first tourists to visit the country after the Taliban takeover.”

She added in a TikTok video that has been viewed over 56,000 times, “I was completely blown away by the incredible hospitality of the locals, amazing food and beautiful scenery.”

“No adventure or vacation is worth the price of your freedom.”

A popular solo traveler and social media creator posted a video of his trip to Afghanistan, writing, “I know a lot of people have mixed feelings about Afghanistan travel, but honestly, I had an amazing time there as a solo traveler.”

AMERICAN OFFICIALS WARN NIGERIAN WOMEN AGAINST BIRTH TOURISM: ‘THIS IS NOT PERMITTED’

Another TikTok video that amassed nearly half a million likes shows an Australian traveler shopping at a food market.

“Some of the best food I have had in all my travels was in Afghanistan,” said the video’s caption in part.

“Some of the best food I have had in all my travels was in Afghanistan,” said one person. “This was also the best sugar cane juice I’ve had.” (iStock)

Manizha Bakhari, ambassador of Afghanistan to Austria, told Fox News Digital the Taliban’s promotion of tourism is an attempt at “image management.”

“As someone who has lived and worked in Afghanistan, I can say this: What these female influencers experience is not representative of women’s lives in Afghanistan,” said Bakhtari.

She added, “The Taliban treat foreign women differently, and often with exaggerated politeness, because they serve a purpose in the regime’s public relations strategy.”

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The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) released its human rights report in May, pointing out that Afghan women are being denied the opportunity to join the workforce and are unable to access services without a male relative — while girls are still deprived of their right to education.

The State Department wrote in its 2024 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices document that treatment of woman has become progressively worse.

The new report stated that there has been “further restricted access to education, employment, and freedom of movement for women and girls – effectively removing them from public spaces.”

Taliban fighters, above, celebrate the third anniversary of the withdrawal of U.S.-led troops from Afghanistan in Kabul on Wed., Aug. 14, 2024. (AP Photo/Siddiqullah Alizai)

“By showcasing scenic landscapes and hospitality toward foreign visitors, especially influencers, they aim to create a narrative of stability and openness,” said Bakhtari.

Bakhtari noted she’s seen a growing disconnect in global travel culture when it comes to adventure tourism.

“The thrill of visiting the ‘forbidden’ or ‘untouched’ often outweighs concern for human rights … [It] becomes a form of voyeurism, one that prioritizes personal experience over the realities of those who live under oppression.”

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Kelley Currie, former U.S. ambassador to the U.N. Economic and Social Council, discussed the danger of visiting Afghanistan, saying Americans should “buy travel insurance.”

The United States is “unable to provide consular services if something happens, especially if they are kidnapped and sold or given to other extremist groups,” Currie told Fox News Digital.

“Travel should open hearts, not close eyes.” (AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi, File)

Adam Duckworth, Travelmation’s president and founder, told Fox News Digital that travel companies take State Department advisories “very seriously.”

“If you are considering travel to a location in the higher levels, then do your research to understand why those places are on those lists,” said Duckworth.

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Bakhtari said while Afghanistan is breathtakingly beautiful, “beauty should not blind us to injustice.”

“Travel should open hearts, not close eyes.”

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Celeb’s cancer warning, plus Viking diet and ‘super ager’ secrets

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August 13, 2025

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Fox News’ Health newsletter brings you stories on the latest developments in healthcare, wellness, diseases, mental health and more.

TOP 3:

– Actor shares subtle sign of colorectal cancer he ignored

– What ‘super agers’ reveal about preserving memory in old age

– Ancient Viking diet makes a modern comeback

This week’s top health news included a celebrity’s signs of colorectal cancer, an ancient diet making a modern comeback, and secrets of preserving memory into old age. (Getty; iStock)

MORE IN HEALTH

TOUGH LOVE — A viral video shows a stepdad using exercise as punishment after his stepson told his mom to “chill,” sparking millions of views and mixed reactions. Continue reading…

MISSING LINK — New research reveals that lithium in the brain could help protect against neurodegeneration and Alzheimer’s disease. Continue reading…

This article was written by Fox News staff.

Weight-loss drugs linked to increased risk of eye conditions and vision loss

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August 13, 2025

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New research has discovered certain weight-loss medications could be associated with an increased risk of serious eye conditions, and even vision loss.

Two studies, published in JAMA, analyzed how semaglutide and tirzepatide — which include popular drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and Zepbound — impacted eye health in Americans with type 2 diabetes over a two-year period.

One study found a modest risk of developing non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (NAOIN) – a rare eye condition that can lead to sudden vision loss due to lack of blood flow – in association with semaglutide and tirzepatide.

Out of more than 159,000 study participants with type 2 diabetes, 35 developed NAION, compared to 19 people in the comparison group.

The Ohio-based researchers also noted an increased risk of developing “other optic nerve disorders,” identified in 93 patients.

A study discovered that certain GLP-1 drugs are associated with a higher risk of eye conditions. (iStock)

Although the second study did not observe a “statistically significant difference” in NAION in GLP-1 drug users, there was a small increase in diabetic retinopathy, an eye disease that can damage the retina.

DIABETIC PATIENTS TAKING GLP-1S MAY FACE INCREASED RISK OF EYE DISEASE, STUDY SUGGESTS

While individuals with type 2 diabetes on GLP-1s showed a modestly increased risk of diabetic retinopathy, the researchers concluded that fewer patients experienced sight-threatening complications from the disease.

“These findings suggest that all patients with type 2 diabetes treated with GLP-1 RAs, regardless of preexisting diabetic retinopathy, should be regularly screened and monitored for potential complications,” the study authors concluded.

Type 2 diabetes patients should be regularly monitored for complications associated with the disease, researchers urge. (iStock)

Sue Decotiis, M.D., a medical weight loss doctor in New York City, said she believes more studies are required to confirm the association between these drugs and vision loss, as these studies report some conflicting results.

“NAION is a rare condition of the optic nerve that, although serious, has not really been shown to be increased by these studies,” Decotiis, who was not involved in the research, told Fox News Digital. “We need more studies for certain.”

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Diabetic patients already face a high incidence of eye disease related to blood flow and nerve damage, the expert noted.

“Eye complications are often directly related to the degree or lack thereof of diabetes control.”

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In most cases, GLP-1 drugs reduce the severity of type 2 diabetes, therefore reducing the incidence of eye diseases, Decotiis noted.

These drugs have also been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, like hypertension, and to improve circulation, which can improve eye health.

A woman prepares to administer an insulin injection

More research is needed to confirm the link between weight-loss drugs and eye diseases, an expert said. (iStock)

For diabetics who are starting a GLP-1, Decotiis recommends having an exam done by an ophthalmologist and scheduling follow-up exams throughout treatment.

“We should take precaution with methodical ophthalmic care for diabetics on these drugs,” Decotiis said. “However, let’s not throw the baby out with the bath water.”

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Novo Nordisk, maker of Ozempic and Wegovy, provided the following statement when contacted by Fox News Digital.

“Patient safety is a top priority for Novo Nordisk, and we take all reports about adverse events from the use of our medicines very seriously. NAION is a very rare eye disease, and it is not an adverse drug reaction for the marketed formulations of semaglutide (Ozempic, Rybelsus and Wegovy) as per the approved labels in the U.S.”

“Novo Nordisk, on its part, has conducted an analysis across randomized controlled clinical trials with GLP-1 receptor agonists, including a blinded ophthalmologist evaluation to confirm NAION diagnoses. Our current assessment is that these data do not suggest a causal relationship between GLP-1 RA use and NAION events.”

Angelica Stabile is a lifestyle reporter for Fox News Digital.

Americans ditch alcohol in record numbers, citing health concerns

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August 13, 2025

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More Americans than ever are choosing not to drink alcohol, according to a new Gallup Poll.

Only 54% of respondents to Gallup’s annual Consumption Habits survey conducted last month say they consume alcohol, which is the lowest on record in nearly 90 years.

“This coincides with a growing belief among Americans that moderate alcohol consumption is bad for one’s health, now the majority view for the first time,” Gallup said in a press release.

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism cites nine body systems impacted by alcohol use.

IS TEQUILA GOOD FOR YOU? EXPERT REVEALS WHAT MAKES IT A ‘REASONABLE CHOICE’ FOR DRINKERS

Seasonal Pumpkin Spice flavored craft beer display in Costco liquor store, Connecticut. (Lindsey Nicholson/UCG/Universal Images Group)

“Current research points to health risks even at low amounts of alcohol consumption, regardless of beverage type,” its website says.

Those who do drink are drinking less, Gallup reported, averaging about 2.8 drinks a week. Over the past two years, Republicans have reported a sharp drop in drinking habits, but Democrats’ percentage has held fairly steady.

GEN Z DRINKING MORE ALCOHOL THAN BEFORE, CHALLENGING LONG-HELD INDUSTRY ASSUMPTIONS ABOUT YOUTH HABITS

Customers are seen drinking beers at McSorley’s Old Ale House in New York on February 18, 2024. (Charly TRIBALLEAU / AFP)

The highest number of Americans who reported drinking alcohol, at 68 to 71%, were all recorded between 1974 and 1981, Gallup said.

Beer is still the “most preferred alcohol,” the global analytics and advisory firm said, adding that it “[h]as documented three consecutive years of decline in the U.S. drinking rate as research supporting the ‘no amount of alcohol is safe’ message mounts.”

Alcohol warning consumption sign in St. Thomas

Warning sign, Drinking alcoholic beverages may increase Cancer risks, with mature couple in restaurant, St Thomas, USVI. (Lindsey Nicholson/UCG/Universal Images Group)

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Gallup does not believe the decline in alcohol consumption is caused by people shifting to other mood-altering substances, in particular recreational marijuana, which is not legal in approximately half of the U.S. states.

Las Vegas tourism officials address significant decline in visitor numbers

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August 13, 2025

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Officials are speaking out after recent reports putting tourism declines in Sin City in the spotlight.

On Tuesday, the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) held its board of directors meeting, addressing various factors that have been impacting tourism.

Steve Hill, LVCVA president, reportedly spoke about the effect that tariffs are having on both returning and potential new visitors.

VEGAS CASINO OWNER FIRES BACK AT ‘EXAGGERATED’ CLAIMS OF SIN CITY’S DEMISE

“Some of the decisions our administration has made around international relations [have] caused a drop in tourism,” said Hill, according to local outlet KTNV Las Vegas.

Hill added, “Our international visitation is flat but is making up for a 20+% drop in tourism from Canada, which is our largest international source of visitation.”

Fox News Digital reached out to LVCVA for comment.

“Our international visitation is flat but is making up for a 20+% drop in tourism from Canada, which is our largest international source of visitation.” (iStock)

Circa Resort & Casino CEO Derek Stevens recently told Fox News Digital that international tourism is down across an array of locations.

“I think everyone is in a position where you can say we’re missing some of our Canadian friends who aren’t visiting this year,” said Stevens.

LAS VEGAS CASINO CULTURE SUFFERS REJECTION BY GAMBLERS OF YOUNGER GENERATIONS

Nevada is among the top five most visited states by Canadians, according to the U.S. Travel Association.

The association warned that the United States could see a 10% reduction in Canadian travel, which is about 2 million fewer visits, according to recent reports.

The LVCVA board recently approved a $20 million sponsorship agreement for the Formula One Las Vegas Grand Prix. (iStock)

The LVCVA board recently approved a $20 million sponsorship agreement for the Formula One Las Vegas Grand Prix.

The agreement will extend the race through 2027 – an event that could boost tourism numbers.

The board also discussed developments at the Harry Reid Airport — which has also seen a decline, dropping 4.1% year to date compared to the same time last year, according to the website.

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Stevens said he believes the lack of international visitors right now may be due to the overall global economy and exchange rates.

Amid some uncertainty, he said the industry has acknowledged the economy has slowed a bit.

A couple of gamblers drinking a glass of champagne

“I think in six months … Vegas tourism and our economy overall will be in a much better place.” (iStock)

“I think in six months, I would believe that Vegas tourism and our economy overall will be in a much better place,” predicted Stevens.

He noted the finalization of trade agreements will provide stability and “set the table going forward.”

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Robby Starbuck, conservative activist and host of “The Robby Starbuck Show,” previously told Fox News Digital it is not just prices that are keeping people out of Vegas these days.

“The Vegas marketing image is one centered on slots and showgirls, two things young people have no interest in,” said one activist and personality. (iStock)

“Now nearly everyone under 40 who bets seems to do it online,” Starbuck said.

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“Another differentiator is that older generations focused on real-life interaction — while younger generations feel just as content with parasocial online experiences,” he said. “The Vegas marketing image is one centered on slots and showgirls, two things young people have no interest in,” said Starbuck.

How to secure your 401(k) plan from identity fraud

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August 13, 2025

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Your 401(k) might be one of the most valuable things you’ve got. And scammers are well aware of this. So, while you’re focused on building a nest egg, they’re out there coming up with new ways to take it from right under you. The tricky part is that most of us don’t check our 401(k) accounts all that often, which makes it harder to spot unusual charges. And that gives cybercriminals the upper hand.

This isn’t ideal for anyone, but the risks become even more serious the closer you get to retirement. For one thing, you’ve likely saved up a good sum. But, what’s worse, a single successful attack could leave you without the cushion of your savings at a vulnerable time in life. This doesn’t mean you’re defenseless, though.

There’s plenty you can do to protect yourself. I’ll go over how criminals gain access to 401(k) accounts, what I personally recommend for locking things down, and what to do if something doesn’t feel right.

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HOW SCAMMERS EXPLOIT YOUR DATA FOR ‘PRE-APPROVED’ RETIREMENT SCAMS

401(k) written on a tablet. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Common types of 401(k) identity fraud

Contrary to popular belief, criminals don’t always need to “hack” their way in. In fact, 99% of cyberattacks require you to let them in. So, social engineering is a favorite tactic. However, you should also be wary of traditional, less sophisticated attacks.

These are the tactics I see criminals use most often:

Phishing emails and fake logins. These look legit, but they take you to a fake site designed to steal your login. Criminals may make the message appear to come from your provider or the bank, then steal your information by asking you to “verify” your account.
Phone scams and robocalls. You may receive calls from the “IRS” or “retirement office” saying there’s a problem with your 401(k). These scams always have a sense of urgency, using fear to pressure you into handing over personal information.
Loan and withdrawal fraud. Criminals may ask for an early withdrawal or loan and reroute the money to their own account.
401(k) rollover scams. Scammers may ask you to move your funds into an individual retirement account (IRA), then try to convince you to make high-risk or worthless investments.
Business email compromise. Criminals may pose as HR or payroll and ask you to change your contribution settings or give them access to your account.
AI-powered impersonation. Cybercriminals can use deepfake voice tech and advanced chat tools to trick you into thinking you’re speaking with someone you trust, like your financial advisor or even your spouse.
Mail theft. One of the easiest ways to steal from your 401(k) is by intercepting rollover checks sent through the mail. All they really need is your address.
SIM swapping and malware. Scammers can intercept security codes and log in to your account by hijacking your phone number or infecting your device.

A woman viewing her 401(k) info on her laptop. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

How I recommend securing your 401(k)

It comes down to a few small habits to maintain your digital hygiene. Most of these focus on keeping your sensitive information private and secure. Data brokers actually collect and sell that information, making it easier for scammers to target you, things like your contact details, employment history, address, date of birth, and more. These companies have even been caught intentionally selling scammers data belonging to elders (who, unsurprisingly, later fell victim to elder fraud). Here’s what I recommend you do to protect yourself from 401(k) scams:

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

1) Keep your personal information locked down

Your data is the biggest weapon in a cybercriminal’s arsenal. Taking it away reduces the risk of ever ending up on their radar to begin with. I use a data removal service to handle this part for me. While no service promises to remove all your data from the internet, having a removal service is great if you want to constantly monitor and automate the process of removing your information from hundreds of sites continuously over a longer period of time.

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/Delete

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

2) Use a strong password

Make sure it’s unique (never reuse passwords), at least eight characters, and complex. Try to keep it completely random and use a mix of numbers, symbols, and upper and lower case letters. This makes it much harder to crack. Consider using a password manager, which securely stores and generates complex passwords, reducing the risk of password reuse.

Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 at Cyberguy.com/Passwords.

3) Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA)

If your provider offers this option, it adds an extra layer of security. Check out my top picks for the top multi-factor authentication apps to protect your accounts.

4) Check your 401(k) regularly

I log in about once a month just to see if anything looks off. Many attacks don’t result in obvious signs, so it may be too late to notice them in time unless you’re actively looking.

5) Turn on notifications and keep contact details up to date

Most providers let you enable alerts for logins, withdrawals, and password changes. This way, if anyone does gain access, at least you’ll know.

6) Avoid using public Wi-Fi

If you’re checking your account from a café or airport, cybercriminals can intercept your login credentials or other sensitive information. If it can’t be avoided, make sure to use a good VPN to keep the connection secure.

For the best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com/VPN.

A woman viewing her 401(k) info on her laptop. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

If you suspect 401(k) fraud, act fast

Speed is everything when it comes to financial fraud. These steps can help stop the damage and improve your chances of recovery:

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1) Contact your plan provider immediately

Call your 401(k) provider and request a freeze or lock on the account to prevent further activity.

2) Notify your employer or plan administrator

If your retirement plan is through your job, loop in HR or your plan administrator right away. They may be able to escalate your case faster.

3) Report the fraud to the government

File a complaint at IdentityTheft.gov and contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). If you lost money, also report it to your local police department.

4) Freeze or flag your credit

Place a fraud alert or credit freeze with the major credit bureaus-Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. This helps prevent further identity theft or loan fraud.

5) Document every detail

Write down everything you know while it’s still fresh-dates, suspicious activity, phone calls, emails, and names of people you spoke with. This information will be critical during any investigation.

6) Check related accounts

If your 401(k) was compromised, check your bank accounts, credit cards, and other investment accounts for signs of suspicious activity.

7) Change all related passwords

Immediately change the login credentials for your 401(k), email, and any accounts connected to it. Use strong, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication.

8) Watch for follow-up scams

Fraudsters may try again, posing as recovery services or investigators. Be cautious of anyone who contacts you unsolicited about the fraud.

The faster you move, the better your chances of mitigating the damage (and maybe even getting some of it reversed).

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Your 401(k) should be building your future, not funding a scammer’s payday. While most people check their retirement accounts less often than their email, that’s exactly what cybercriminals count on. They’re hoping you’ll let your guard down. The good news? You have more control than you think. By locking down your personal info, checking your account regularly, and setting up the right alerts, you can stay one step ahead. It takes just a few small habits to protect one of your biggest financial assets. Don’t wait until something goes wrong. A little attention now could save you everything later.

If someone drained your 401(k) tomorrow, how long would it take you to notice? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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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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Canadian PM Carney faces backlash over Montreal Jewish father assault

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August 13, 2025

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Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney faced criticism for failing to promptly condemn the assault of a Jewish man walking with his children in a Montreal suburb on Friday.

The man was walking with his three children in a park when an unknown individual approached and sprayed them with water. The assailant then physically assaulted the father, knocking him to the ground and tossing his kippah away, a traditional skullcap worn by observant Jewish men.

On Monday, police in Montreal announced the arrest of a 27-year-old suspect in connection with the assault, an incident that has fueled growing calls for the Canadian government to crack down on rampant antisemitism.

CANADA’S ANTISEMITISM ENVOY RESIGNS, CITING EXHAUSTION AMID HATE SURGE

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney speaks at a press conference about recognizing Palestinian statehood while Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand listens, in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, on July 30, 2025. (Reuters)

“Canada had the chance to change course after the disaster of [former Prime Minister Justin] Trudeau’s tenure, but instead chose to continue marching toward the abyss. It is beyond doubt that a violent incident like the one we witnessed in Montreal draws direct inspiration from the tailwind Canada’s government, de facto, gives to Hamas,” Israeli Minister for Diaspora Affairs and Combatting Antisemitism Amichai Chikli told Fox News Digital.

“Canada is not yet at the stage of Belgium or the U.K.—both of which have become extremely dangerous for Jews—but it is headed there, slowly and inexorably,” he added.

Carney commented on the incident at 11 p.m. Saturday — roughly a day and a half later — after Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar publicly criticized Ottawa’s response.

Israeli Minister of Diaspora Affairs and Combatting Antisemitism Amichai Chikli condemned the attack on a Jewish man in Montreal. (Shahar Azran/Getty Images)

“The attack on a Jewish father in Montreal late yesterday, in front of his own children, is an appalling act of violence. Everyone in Canada has an inalienable right to live in safety,” Carney posted on X.

Sa’ar had called him out on X, writing, “The incident shown in this video is shocking and stomach-turning. … These are images reminiscent of dark periods of Jewish persecution. This is appalling.

“The Canadian government must do more to fight antisemitism!” he added.

Although Jews account for less than 1% of Canada’s population, antisemitism was behind 18.8% of all reported hate crimes in 2024. Of the 1,342 incidents classified as religiously motivated, 920, or 68.5%, were directed at the Jewish community.

Richard Robertson, director of research and advocacy at B’nai Brith Canada, noted that just a week earlier a synagogue in Victoria, British Columbia, had been defaced with antisemitic threats, underscoring that Jew-hatred has become a nationwide problem.

FAITH UNDER FIRE: NETANYAHU CALLS OUT EFFORTS TO DIVIDE CHRISTIANS AND ISRAEL IN US

“As the situation continues to devolve, Jewish Canadians do not need to be placated with mere lip service. We need our leaders to take clear and unequivocal positions and work vigorously to facilitate change. Anything less only serves to further embolden and enable the vitriolic cohort of our society that continues to attack our community,” Robertson told Fox News Digital.

A man fixes the lock of the doors of Congregation Beth Tikvah as police investigate an alleged arson at the synagogue in the suburb of Dollard-des-Ormeaux in Montreal on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Christinne Muschi/The Canadian Press via AP)

“What happened in Montreal on Friday afternoon was absolutely horrific. It must serve as a wake-up call for the entire city. This is what happens when civic leaders permit an atmosphere where hateful thugs feel as if they can act with impunity,” he said.

The attack occurred amid a broader climate of intense antisemitism, which recently led Deborah Lyons, Canada’s special envoy on Holocaust remembrance and combating antisemitism, to resign in July — three months before her term ended — citing physical and emotional exhaustion.

It also took place against a backdrop of strained Canada-Israel relations. Canada is one of four countries, alongside France, Australia and the United Kingdom, that have announced their intention to recognize a Palestinian state.

Canada’s former ambassador to Israel, Vivian Bercovici, told Fox News Digital that it’s difficult to discuss the past two years of rising antisemitism in Canada without looking back to October 2015, when former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was first elected prime minister.

“In my view, Trudeau’s approach to the conflict was very plural and unsophisticated. He had a very quickly growing Muslim population in Canada, and he was careful not to do anything to alienate those voters,” Bercovici said.

Anti-Israel protesters holding antisemitic posters in Alberta, Canada, on April 13, 2025. (Photo by Artur Widak/NurPhoto via AP)

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According to Statistics Canada, the share of the population identifying as Muslim more than doubled over 20 years, increasing from 2.0% (579,640 people) in 2001 to 4.9% (1,775,715 people) in 2021.

“What we’ve seen, as in many other parts of the West, is that they have come and demanded that we change to accommodate them — that we change the way we do things. Some of their most consistent demands concern Israel and Jewish communities, which have increasingly become targets,” Bercovici said.

Amelie Botbol is a freelance journalist based in Tel Aviv. Her articles have appeared in the New York Post, Canada’s National Post, and the Washington Times. Amelie can be followed on X @DatReporter

Man hospitalized after ChatGPT dietary advice leads to toxic poisoning

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August 13, 2025

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A man who used ChatGPT for dietary advice ended up poisoning himself — and wound up in the hospital.

The 60-year-old man, who was looking to eliminate table salt from his diet for health reasons, used the large language model (LLM) to get suggestions for what to replace it with, according to a case study published this week in the Annals of Internal Medicine.

When ChatGPT suggested swapping sodium chloride (table salt) for sodium bromide, the man made the replacement for a three-month period — although, the journal article noted, the recommendation was likely referring to it for other purposes, such as cleaning.

CHATGPT COULD BE SILENTLY REWIRING YOUR BRAIN AS EXPERTS URGE CAUTION FOR LONG-TERM USE

Sodium bromide is a chemical compound that resembles salt, but is toxic for human consumption.

It was once used as an anticonvulsant and sedative, but today is primarily used for cleaning, manufacturing and agricultural purposes, according to the National Institutes of Health.

A man who used ChatGPT for dietary advice ended up poisoning himself — and wound up in the hospital. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

When the man arrived at the hospital, he reported experiencing fatigue, insomnia, poor coordination, facial acne, cherry angiomas (red bumps on the skin) and excessive thirst — all symptoms of bromism, a condition caused by long-term exposure to sodium bromide.

The man also showed signs of paranoia, the case study noted, as he claimed that his neighbor was trying to poison him.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE DETECTS CANCER WITH 25% GREATER ACCURACY THAN DOCTORS IN UCLA STUDY

He was also found to have auditory and visual hallucinations, and was ultimately placed on a psychiatric hold after attempting to escape.

The man was treated with intravenous fluids and electrolytes, and was also put on anti-psychotic medication. He was released from the hospital after three weeks of monitoring.

“This case also highlights how the use of artificial intelligence (AI) can potentially contribute to the development of preventable adverse health outcomes,” the researchers wrote in the case study.

“These are language prediction tools — they lack common sense and will give rise to terrible results if the human user does not apply their own common sense.”

“Unfortunately, we do not have access to his ChatGPT conversation log and we will never be able to know with certainty what exactly the output he received was, since individual responses are unique and build from previous inputs.”

It is “highly unlikely” that a human doctor would have mentioned sodium bromide when speaking with a patient seeking a substitute for sodium chloride, they noted.

NEW AI TOOL ANALYZES FACE PHOTOS TO PREDICT HEALTH OUTCOMES

“It is important to consider that ChatGPT and other AI systems can generate scientific inaccuracies, lack the ability to critically discuss results and ultimately fuel the spread of misinformation,” the researchers concluded.

Dr. Jacob Glanville, CEO of Centivax, a San Francisco biotechnology company, emphasized that people should not use ChatGPT as a substitute for a doctor.

When ChatGPT suggested swapping sodium chloride (table salt) for sodium bromide, the man, not pictured, made the replacement for a three-month period. (iStock)

“These are language prediction tools — they lack common sense and will give rise to terrible results if the human user does not apply their own common sense when deciding what to ask these systems and whether to heed their recommendations,” Glanville, who was not involved in the case study, told Fox News Digital.

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“This is a classic example of the problem: The system essentially went, ‘You want a salt alternative? Sodium bromide is often listed as a replacement for sodium chloride in chemistry reactions, so therefore it’s the highest-scoring replacement here.’”

Dr. Harvey Castro, a board-certified emergency medicine physician and national speaker on artificial intelligence based in Dallas, confirmed that AI is a tool and not a doctor.

It is “highly unlikely” that a human doctor would have mentioned sodium bromide when speaking with a patient seeking a substitute for sodium chloride, the researchers said. (iStock)

“Large language models generate text by predicting the most statistically likely sequence of words, not by fact-checking,” he told Fox News Digital.

“ChatGPT’s bromide blunder shows why context is king in health advice,” Castro went on. “AI is not a replacement for professional medical judgment, aligning with OpenAI’s disclaimers.”

Castro also cautioned that there is a “regulation gap” when it comes to using LLMs to get medical information.

“Our terms say that ChatGPT is not intended for use in the treatment of any health condition, and is not a substitute for professional advice.”

“FDA bans on bromide don’t extend to AI advice — global health AI oversight remains undefined,” he said.

There is also the risk that LLMs could have data bias and a lack of verification, leading to hallucinated information.

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“If training data includes outdated, rare or chemically focused references, the model may surface them in inappropriate contexts, such as bromide as a salt substitute,” Castro noted.

“Also, current LLMs don’t have built-in cross-checking against up-to-date medical databases unless explicitly integrated.”

OpenAI ChatGPT app on the App Store website

One expert cautioned that there is a “regulation gap” when it comes to using large language models to get medical information. (Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto)

To prevent cases like this one, Castro called for more safeguards for LLMs, such as integrated medical knowledge bases, automated risk flags, contextual prompting and a combination of human and AI oversight.

The expert added, “With targeted safeguards, LLMs can evolve from risky generalists into safer, specialized tools; however, without regulation and oversight, rare cases like this will likely recur.”

For more health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health

OpenAI, the San Francisco-based maker of ChatGPT, provided the following statement to Fox News Digital.

“Our terms say that ChatGPT is not intended for use in the treatment of any health condition, and is not a substitute for professional advice. We have safety teams working on reducing risks and have trained our AI systems to encourage people to seek professional guidance.”

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.

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