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Caribbean islands see boom in US ‘golden passport’ investment programs

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America’s elite are increasingly drawn to “golden” visa programs with new opportunities emerging in sunny and desirable locations.

The latest countries to be included in the trend are some Caribbean Islands — namely, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Lucia.

The islands offer citizenship-by-investment (CBI) programs, also dubbed “golden passports.”

AMERICA’S ELITE LEAD BOOM OF ‘GOLDEN’ VISA APPLICATIONS TO VACATION DESTINATION

The visa can be obtained by making one of two qualifying investments.

The first is “a direct contribution to the Government (commonly known as the contribution to the Economic Diversification Fund route), starting at U.S. $200,000 for a single applicant,” according to the Commonwealth of Dominica. 

The Caribbean Islands offer “citizenship-by-investment programs” starting at $200,000 — attracting wealthy Americans seeking golden passports through real-estate purchases. (iStock)

The second is “the purchase of pre-approved real estate at a minimum value of U.S. $200,000.”

Many Caribbean Islands do not have wealth, gift, inheritance, foreign income or capital gains taxes.

The CBI program allows investors to retain their existing citizenship and grants visa-free entry to most countries around the world.

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Nadia Dyson, owner of Luxury Locations Real Estate in Antiqua, told the BBC there has been a surge in business. 

“Up to 70% of all buyers right now are wanting citizenship, and the vast majority are from the U.S.,” Dyson said.

st lucia

Five Caribbean islands are offering citizenship through government contributions or real-estate purchases. (Marica van der Meer/Arterra/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

“This time last year, it was all lifestyle buyers and a few CBI. Now they’re all saying, ‘I want a house with citizenship.’ We’ve never sold so many before,” she told the BBC. 

New Zealand recently saw a surge of Americans seeking its “Active Investor Plus” visa, Fox News Digital previously reported.

In April, the government relaxed its visa rules to attract more high-net-worth individuals, with such changes as removing an English language requirement and reducing the amount of time required to spend in New Zealand.

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In under three months, 189 golden visa applications were received, while previous applications were at 116 submissions over the span of more than two-and-a-half years, Reuters reported.

Nearly half the applications were submitted by U.S. citizens.

st lucia homes

Many Caribbean Islands do not have wealth, gift, inheritance, foreign income or capital gains taxes. (iStock)

Former New Zealand Minister for Economic Development Stuart Nash, co-founder of Nash Kelly Global, told Fox News Digital the visas are becoming more popular.

“There’s a lot of global uncertainty at the moment,” he said last month. 

“You’ve got a war going on in Europe, you’ve got the tinderbox, which is the Middle East. You’ve got a change in the U.S. administration,” said Nash, “which is causing more polarization than we’ve seen in a long, long time.”

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He added, “In the past, people were looking for tax havens. Now they’re looking for safe havens for them[selves] and their family.”

CDC warns Americans traveling to China as chikungunya virus is spreading rapidly

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The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warned Americans to take “enhanced precautions” while traveling to China over an outbreak of the mosquito-borne chikungunya virus. 

The agency issued a fresh travel warning this month saying that cases of the illness are rapidly spreading in Guangdong province, with most being reported in the city of Foshan. Chinese health officials said more than 7,000 cases have been confirmed there since June 2025. 

“Most people infected with chikungunya virus develop some symptoms. Symptoms of chikungunya usually begin 3–7 days after a bite by an infected mosquito,” according to the CDC. “The most common symptoms are fever and joint pain. Other symptoms may include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, or rash. Most people get better within a week; however, some can have severe joint pain for months to years following acute illness.” 

“People at risk for more severe disease include newborns infected around the time of birth, older adults (65 years or older), and people with medical conditions such as diabetes or heart disease. Death from chikungunya is rare,” the CDC added. “There is no specific treatment for chikungunya.” 

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

A sanitation worker sprays insecticide to prevent the spread of the Chikungunya virus on Aug. 3, 2025 in Dongguan, in the Guangdong Province of China. (VCG via Getty Images)

In Foshan, efforts to combat the virus include drones being sent out to identify mosquito breeding sites, workers spraying residents with mosquito repellent before allowing them into buildings and mosquito-eating fish being released into ponds, the New York Times reported. 

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control said that as of July, there had been around 240,000 global cases of the chikungunya virus across 16 countries and territories. The cases have been linked to 90 deaths. 

The CDC said in addition to China, there are outbreaks in countries including Bolivia, Kenya and Sri Lanka. Americans traveling to Brazil, Colombia, India, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Philippines and Thailand also are at elevated risk of exposure to the virus. 

DOCTORS REVEAL KEY SIGNS OF LYME DISEASE AS TICK SEASON INTENSIFIES ACROSS US 

Efforts being made to combat spread of Chikungunya virus in Japan

Workers carry out maintenance work on green spaces during an operation aimed at mosquito control amid a sharp rise in Chikungunya virus cases on July 25, 2025 in Foshan, China.  (VCG via Getty Images)

“You can protect yourself by preventing mosquito bites, which includes using insect repellent; wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants; and staying in places with air conditioning or that have screens on the windows and doors,” the CDC said in its advisory. 

“Vaccination is recommended for travelers who are visiting an area with a chikungunya outbreak,” the CDC continued, noting that there are currently two approved chikungunya vaccines in the U.S. 

Worker fighting Chikungunya virus in Foshan

A staff member carries out disinfection work at a hospital amid an outbreak of chikungunya on July 23, 2025 in Foshan, China.  (VCG via Getty Images)

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“Seek medical care immediately if you develop fever, joint pain, headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, or rash during or after travel,” the CDC advised.

George Kittle airs grievance over NFL smelling salts ban decision

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San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle crashed his teammate Fred Warner’s interview on Tuesday to air out a grievance he has with the league. 

The league informed all teams of a smelling salts ban before and during all NFL games, and the do-it-all tight end from the Bay Area is not happy. 

“I honestly just came up here to air a grievance,” Kittle said on NFL Network. “Our team got a memo today that smelling salts and ammonia packets were made illegal in the NFL, and I’ve been distraught all day.”

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San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle, #85, looks on in the first half against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, on Jan. 5, 2025. (Matt Kartozian-Imagn Images)

Kittle said he’s a regular user of smelling salts, which gives him a boost of energy, before offensive drives. 

“I miss those already,” he added. 

GEORGE KITTLE’S SECRET GOLF WEAPON: WHY 49ERS STAR STILL USES ICONIC NIKE DRIVER FROM 2014

The memo, provided by ESPN, says teams are prohibited from “providing or supplying ammonia in any form,” which includes ammonia capsules, inhalers, ammonia in a cup or any form of smelling salts. 

This will be applicable throughout games, including pregame activities and halftime in and out of the locker room as well as on the sideline. 

“In 2024, the FDA issued a warning to companies that produce commercially available ammonia inhalants (AIs), as well as to consumers about the purchase and use of AIs, regarding the lack of evidence supporting the safety or efficacy of AIs marketed for improving mental alertness or boosting energy,” the memo read, per ESPN. “The FDA noted potential negative effects from AI use. AIs also have the potential to mask certain neurological signs and symptoms, including some potential signs of concussion.

George Kittle OTAs

San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle, #85, works out with his teammates during an OTA at Levi’s Stadium on June 10, 2025. (D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images)

“As a result, the NFL Head, Neck and Spine Committee recommended prohibiting the use of AIs for any purpose during NFL play.”

Kittle jokingly said, “I considered retirement,” after reading the memo on Tuesday. However, he likely isn’t the only one viewing this new directive in a bad light. 

“We have got to figure out a middle ground here, guys.  Somebody help me out. Somebody come up with a good idea,” he said. “That’s all I had to get out there. Get that off my chest.”

George Kittle walks on field

Tight end George Kittle, #85 of the San Francisco 49ers, warms up prior to an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams at Levi’s Stadium on Dec. 12, 2024 in Santa Clara, California. (Brooke Sutton/Getty Images)

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Kittle is entering his ninth year in the NFL, all with the 49ers, and he’s coming off yet another season with over 1,000 yards receiving. He had 78 receptions for 1,106 yards with eight touchdowns. 

The 31-year-old is one of the best at his position in the league, but he’s going to have to find his gameday energy boost elsewhere in 2025 and beyond.

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Ultra-thin sound blocker cuts traffic noise dramatically

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If you live near a busy street, this new breakthrough from Switzerland could offer some long-awaited relief. Researchers at the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA) have developed an ultra-thin traffic noise absorber that significantly reduces sound levels while occupying just a fraction of the space required by traditional materials.

The new absorber is only about 2.1 inches thick, yet it performs on par with much bulkier products, such as rock wool. Even more impressively, it can be customized to target specific types of noise, making it ideal for a variety of indoor and outdoor settings.

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SUSTAINABLE 3D-PRINTED HOME BIULT PRIMARILY FROM SOIL

Ultra-thin traffic noise absorber.

Ultra-thin traffic noise absorber. (EMPA)

How the new material works

The innovation lies in the material’s composition: a multi-layered mineral foam made from gypsum or cement. Each layer contains pores of different sizes, designed to force air particles to travel in longer, more winding paths. That extended journey helps dissipate sound waves more efficiently than flat or uniform insulation.

EMPA researchers also use numerical modeling to simulate how sound will move through the material. By adjusting pore sizes, perforation patterns, and layer thickness, they can fine-tune the acoustic performance for a specific space or type of noise. This kind of control makes the absorber suitable for locations ranging from quiet stairwells to bustling office environments.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

Ultra-thin traffic noise absorber.

Ultra-thin traffic noise absorber. (EMPA)

Real-world test in Zurich

To test the material in a real-world setting, the EMPA team installed a prototype in a driveway in Zurich. They covered roughly 130 square feet of wall space with panels just over 2 inches thick. One end of the driveway opens onto a busy street, while the other leads into a quieter courtyard.

The results were immediate and measurable. Traffic noise dropped by as much as 4 decibels. The sound reduction was most noticeable when cars entered or exited the driveway, since the panels caused the noise to bounce multiple times before reaching the courtyard. For context, a 4-decibel reduction is sufficient to noticeably reduce the irritation caused by street noise, especially in densely populated urban areas.

Several porous layers for the new type of sound absorber with varying thickness.

Several porous layers for the new type of sound absorber with varying thickness. (EMPA)

Built for flexibility, designed for the future

One of the best features of this sound absorber is how little space it requires. Traditional insulation materials tend to eat up valuable inches, limiting where they can be used. This thin, dense material offers more freedom for architects, interior designers, and developers to include noise protection in areas where every inch matters.

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The panels can also withstand outdoor elements. They are weather-resistant, fireproof, and made of recyclable materials, making them both durable and environmentally responsible. Because they do not release harmful particles, they are also safe for indoor use in places like schools, offices, and apartment buildings. 

The catch: Still handmade, for now

While the design and performance are promising, the current production method poses challenges. The panel perforation is still done manually, which makes it time-consuming and difficult to scale. However, EMPA is already working with Swiss manufacturer De Cavis to streamline production and prepare for broader commercial use. Once automated, this material could become a standard feature in construction projects where noise control and space efficiency are both top priorities.

Sound absorbers tested in a driveway in Zurich.

Sound absorbers tested in a driveway in Zurich. (EMPA)

What this means for you

If you’re dealing with constant background noise from traffic, nearby businesses, or shared walls, a product like this could be a game-changer. A thinner absorber means you can finally enjoy peace and quiet without sacrificing living or workspace space.

Whether you’re a homeowner looking to quiet a bedroom wall, a property manager renovating an apartment complex, or an architect designing a new office building, this material opens up possibilities that simply didn’t exist with traditional insulation.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Noise pollution doesn’t just interrupt your day; it affects your health, mood, and productivity. That’s why a versatile, slim, and powerful sound absorber like this is more than just a material upgrade. It’s a lifestyle upgrade. While it’s not yet widely available, the work being done to bring this technology to market suggests that quieter cities, homes, and workplaces may be within reach much sooner than expected.

If you could cut the traffic noise outside your window in half using panels thinner than a paperback book, would you do it? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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Woman given months to live beats brain cancer with new cell treatment

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A New Jersey woman has been given a second chance at life, thanks to a new cancer therapy.

Pamela Goldberger, 65, found out in 2023 that she had glioblastoma — a devastating diagnosis with an average survival of just 14 to 16 months, even with surgery.

In an on-camera interview with Fox News Digital, Goldberger shared that her first symptoms were subtle, other than a severe bout of nausea — until one night at dinner, she used her fork as her knife and her knife as her fork. (See the video at the top of the article.)

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

Goldberger went to the ER for neurological testing, including MRIs and a CAT scan, which revealed a brain tumor.

“It’s pretty devastating news to hear,” she said. “I don’t know what I thought was happening, but that wasn’t it … Our world just stopped.”

Pam Goldberger is pictured with her husband Bruce Goldberger (far right) and their two grandchildren. The survivor said her husband was her “biggest cheerleader” throughout her cancer journey. (Goldberger family)

“We have two little grandchildren, and [I thought] I was never going to have the opportunity to see them grow up. I think that’s as devastating as it gets.”

Goldberger was admitted to the hospital and scheduled for brain surgery a few days later.

BRAIN CANCER PATIENTS WHO RECEIVED THIS PAIN MEDICATION LIVED LONGER, STUDY SHOWS

Surgery is standard treatment for this highly invasive brain cancer, but the head of neurosurgery at Cooper University Hospital in Camden, New Jersey, offered Goldberger a different option.

He invited Goldberger to consider joining a clinical trial for an individualized stem cell therapy that could help treat glioblastoma, and she agreed to participate.

Pam Goldberger tennis

Although the healing process was “very gradual,” Goldberger said she started to feel like herself again once the oral chemotherapy ended. (Goldberger family)

After the surgery, Goldberger began six weeks of chemotherapy and radiation, and then started six weeks of the cell therapy a few weeks later. That process was followed by another year of chemo maintenance.

Although the healing process was “very gradual,” Goldberger said she started to feel like herself again once the oral chemotherapy ended.

Now, 2-½ years after her diagnosis, she is alive, healthy and able to play tennis several times a week.

Details of the clinical trial

Survival rates and treatments for glioblastoma have not changed in 20 years, according to Dr. Joseph Georges, a neurosurgeon at Banner University Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona, who led the clinical trial. 

“It’s a highly mutated tumor and there are different cell populations for each patient,” he told Fox News Digital. “And the tumor is also very good at silencing the body’s immune system from attacking it.”

“It’s pretty devastating news to hear … Our world just stopped.”

The new treatment primes the immune system to detect and kill the tumor cell by creating a vaccine directly from the patient’s tumor, which is collected during surgery.

“We’re picking up all these various tumor cell types, and then we’re teaching the immune system how to attack the tumor — even the small cells that evade surgical resection,” Georges said.

TERMINAL COLON CANCER PATIENT SAVED BY BREAKTHROUGH TREATMENT

The treatment, which uses dendritic cells taken from patients, was administered to 16 people between 47 and 73 years old who were newly diagnosed with glioblastoma, including Goldberger.

After undergoing chemo and radiation, the patients received three courses of the injection every two weeks, along with weekly injections of a pegylated interferon medication (a type of protein that helps regulate the immune system).

Pam Goldberger with grandchildren

While Goldberger still has regular check-ins with her doctors, she reported that she’s feeling “good” and enjoying spending time with her grandchildren, playing tennis, having lunch with friends, reading, shopping and traveling. (Goldberger Family)

The phase 1 clinical trial showed overall positive results, according to a press release from Diakonos Oncology, the group that developed the treatment, which is called DOC1021 (dubondencel).

The researchers noted positive immune responses and improved survival after treatment. It was also found to be safe with minimal side effects, even at high doses.

RARE SPINAL CANCER TUMOR REMOVED THROUGH PATIENT’S EYE AT UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

“At best, we hope to keep it stable and hope that we don’t see it grow, but we are actually seeing tumors disappear for some of these people on their MRIs,” Georges told Fox News Digital, which is “something you don’t see in glioblastoma.”

“It’s truly amazing.”

‘Living my best life’

While Goldberger still has regular check-ins with her doctors, she reported that she’s feeling “good” and enjoying spending time with her grandchildren, playing tennis, having lunch with friends, reading, shopping and traveling.

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“I’m living my best life right now, and I’m not restricted by not being able to do anything that I would want to do,” she told Fox News Digital.

For other glioblastoma patients, Goldberger recommends seeking out clinical trial opportunities if available and appropriate, and also urges them to take healing seriously.

Three women are blurred in the background while they receive chemotherapy - the chemotherapy apparatus (a bag and tube) are in focus in the foreground.

After undergoing chemo and radiation, the patients received three courses of the injection every two weeks. (iStock)

“I was a really good patient. I did everything my doctors told me to do,” Goldberger said, noting that she walked every day, ate well and got plenty of sleep.

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“I surrounded myself with things that made me happy,” she went on. “Spent a lot of time with my grandchildren and my family … and only did things that made me happy.”

“I think all those things, put together with having excellent medical care and this trial, is the reason [I’m alive]. And a lot of luck.”

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Georges agreed that patients with recurring glioblastoma should look for clinical trials that may help.

Diakonos Oncology announced on July 22 that the first patient has been dosed in the phase 2 clinical trial of DOC1021. Georges shared that the trial will be available at 20 sites around the country.

Tarantula mating season brings massive spider swarms to Southwest states

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Tarantula mating season is here — and if you’re in the Southwest, you might see hordes of these fist-sized spiders marching across the landscape. 

From late summer through fall, male tarantulas emerge from their burrows on a singular mission: to find a female and mate before they die, experts say.

“These males … they’ve been alive for five to eight years,” Cara Shillington, a biology professor who studies tarantulas at Eastern Michigan University, told Fox News Digital. (See the video at the top of this article.) 

AMERICA’S SECOND-LARGEST CICADA SWARM IS ABOUT TO EMERGE ACROSS THE EAST COAST

“They have one mating season. At the end of the season, they will die.”

This means that if you see a tarantula out and about between August and October, you’re witnessing its grand finale — the final act in a long, hidden life underground.

Male tarantulas emerge only to find a mate when they reach sexual maturity at around 8 to 10 years old, after which they usually die within months. (iStock)

“Tarantulas are less active during the cooler months, spending this time dormant in their burrows,” Paul Biggs, a board-certified entomologist and technical services manager at Orkin, told Fox News Digital.

“Because of the harsh environmental conditions, they take shelter and conserve energy during this time,” added Biggs, who is based in Riverside, California.

Where to spot them

Tarantulas are commonly found across the Southern and Southwestern U.S., including in these states and areas:

  • Texas
  • Arizona
  • California
  • Oklahoma
  • New Mexico
  • Nevada
  • Utah
  • Southeastern Colorado

In some areas, their movements are so noticeable that the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website refers to it as “a migration.”

“They’re more scared of you than you are of them.”

Southeastern Colorado even hosts an annual Tarantula Festival in the town of La Junta, Shillington noted.

Tarantulas don’t just live on forest floors. The Colorado species also thrives in trees and prairie grasslands, said Shillington.

TICKS SPREAD TO NEW REGIONS ACROSS AMERICA, BRINGING DANGEROUS DISEASES AND NEED FOR VIGILANCE

“In Colorado, they are in very distinct burrows. In Missouri, you find them more frequently under rocks,” she said.

The spiders’ ability to burrow depends on the soil, the expert noted. For example, hard clay makes digging tough, so some may opt for hiding under natural cover.

Person holding tarantula in her hands

“Tarantulas are less active during the cooler months, spending this time dormant in their burrows,” an expert said. (iStock)

What to do if you see them

First, don’t panic. Tarantulas are not aggressive and prefer to avoid confrontation. 

“Tarantulas don’t pose any threat at all,” Shillington told Fox News Digital. 

She noted that “they’re more scared of you than you are of them.”

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The arachnids rarely bite, and if they do, it’s a defensive move, which is why it’s best not to try to pick one up or mess with it. 

“Any time you try to grab it, the first thing it’ll do is try and run,” said Shillington. “They respond to anything trying to grab them as a threat.”

Tarantula close-up in the Pinaleno Mountains

Even though tarantulas are well-known in popular culture, and even as pets, scientists still have many unanswered questions. (iStock)

If you find one in your home, trap it in a large container and take it outside, said Shillington.

Biggs cautioned against using pest products, which may “make the situation worse.”

He advised, “If you can contain it to one area in the meantime, do so without physically handling it.”

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Even though tarantulas are well-known in popular culture, and even as pets, scientists still have many unanswered questions.

“We actually know very little,” Shillington admitted. “I don’t know when exactly they first come out or what prompts them. I have no idea how far they are walking to find females.”

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She and her team are working to track activity across tarantula territory to better understand how the spider’s behavior changes over time.

Sustainable 3D-printed home built primarily from soil

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A remarkable new home in Japan is turning heads and turning the construction industry on its ear. Known as the Lib Earth House Model B, this single-story home was created using 3D-printing technology and a soil-based mixture instead of traditional concrete. It’s a bold move toward sustainability, blending innovation with nature in a way that could redefine how we build homes around the world.

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WHY AI IS CAUSING SUMMER ELECTRICITY BILLS TO SOAR

Lib Earth House Model B.

Lib Earth House Model B. (Lib Work)

How this soil-based 3D-printed house was built

The home is located in Yamaga, Kumamoto Prefecture. It was built by Lib Work Co., Arup, and 3D-printing firm WASP. Rather than use cement, the team created a new material from earth, lime, and natural fibers. These ingredients are renewable, widely available, and kind to the environment.

During construction, WASP’s 3D printer layered the soil-based mixture to form the curved walls and ribbed texture. Once the shell was complete, human workers installed the windows, doors, and roof to finish the build.

Inside, the home feels bright and modern. Large windows fill the rooms with natural light, and clean lines enhance the space. The flat roof and textured walls subtly reveal the home’s 3D-printed origins.

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Lib Earth House Model B.

Lib Earth House Model B. (Lib Work)

Off-grid features of this sustainable 3D-printed home

This home isn’t just eco-friendly, it’s also off-grid and fully connected. It uses solar panels and Tesla’s Powerwall battery to power everything from lighting and air conditioning to a smart bath, all of which can be controlled via smartphone or voice command. Sensors embedded in the structure will now monitor its performance over time, tracking everything from insulation to humidity. These insights will help improve future designs and answer big questions about durability.

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Lib Earth House Model B.

Lib Earth House Model B. (Lib Work)

What this means for you

The Lib Earth House is a prototype for a greener way to live. By avoiding concrete and focusing on materials that return to the earth, it reduces landfill waste and carbon emissions. If you care about the environment, energy savings, or tech-savvy living, this could be a glimpse of what’s ahead for residential housing. Lib Work plans to deliver 10,000 units by 2040, with pre-orders starting in August. For now, the homes are only available in Japan, but expansion plans are on the table.

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Lib Earth House Model B.

Lib Earth House Model B. (Lib Work)

Kurt’s key takeaways

From soil to structure, the Lib Earth House Model B shows that sustainable housing doesn’t have to sacrifice comfort or style. Furthermore, its smart energy systems and earth-friendly design set a new standard for the future of housing. As a result, this innovative approach actively addresses both climate and housing challenges.

Would you live in a house made from the very ground it sits on? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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Legionnaires’ outbreak infects dozens with bacterial pneumonia in major city

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An outbreak of bacterial pneumonia has infected dozens of people in New York City, according to health officials.

A total of 58 people have been diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease, a type of pneumonia caused by the bacteria Legionella. 

Two people have died, the NYC Health Department confirmed in an August 4 news release.

DEATHS REPORTED AFTER LEGIONNAIRES’ DISEASE OUTBREAK AT SENIOR LIVING FACILITY

The cluster of cases is concentrated in Central Harlem and bordering communities (zip codes 10027, 10030, 10035, 10037 and 10039).

“Anyone in these zip codes with flu-like symptoms should contact a healthcare provider as soon as possible,” said Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse in the health department’s alert. 

A total of 58 people in Central Harlem have been diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease, a bacterial pneumonia. (iStock)

Legionnaires’ is usually found in lakes, streams and other freshwater environments.

However, it can grow and spread indoors via shower heads, sink faucets, hot tubs, water features/fountains, plumbing systems and other water systems where conditions are favorable for the Legionella bacteria to grow, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

HIGHLY CONTAGIOUS DISEASE SURGES IN SOME US STATES AMID REPORT OF POSSIBLE FATAL CASE

When people swallow or breathe in droplets of water that contain Legionella, they can potentially become ill with Legionnaires’ disease.

The disease is not typically spread from person to person, per the CDC.

Legionella bacteria

Legionnaires’ disease is caused by the bacteria Legionella, which can cause flu-like symptoms and respiratory problems. (iStock)

In the case of the New York City outbreak, the health department directed the state to perform remediation for 11 cooling towers that tested positive for the bacteria.

“Legionnaires’ disease can be effectively treated if diagnosed early, but New Yorkers at higher risk, like adults aged 50 and older and those who smoke or have chronic lung conditions, should be especially mindful of their symptoms and seek care as soon as symptoms begin,” Morse added.

Symptoms and risk

Symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease usually show up between two and 14 days after exposure. 

The condition usually causes flu-like symptoms, including cough, chills, muscle aches, fever or difficulty breathing.

Some patients may also experience nausea, diarrhea and confusion, the CDC noted. 

Pneumonia In the Lungs

When people swallow or breathe in droplets of water that contain Legionella, they can potentially become ill with Legionnaires’ disease. (iStock)

“The nature of the symptoms is not necessarily what differentiates Legionella from other causes, but history of exposure from ‘human-made reservoirs,’ though this may be hard to discern early on in infection and/or in an outbreak,” said Goodyear.

Those who have any of these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately, the CDC advises.

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Groups at highest risk include smokers, people 50 and older, those with chronic lung disease and people who are immunocompromised, according to health officials.

“Other risk factors include advancing age, cardiovascular disease, obesity and compromised immune systems,” Dr. Nathan Goodyear, medical director of Brio-Medical in Arizona, previously told Fox News Digital. 

Around 10% of people who contract Legionnaires’ disease will die from complications.

Diagnosis of Legionnaires’ disease is made via chest X-ray, urine test and lab analysis of a phlegm sample.

Most people with the disease will recover with a course of antibiotics.

In some patients, however, serious illness can lead to lung failure or death, per the CDC.

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Around 10% of people who contract Legionnaires’ disease will die from those complications — and the mortality risk rises to 25% for those who get Legionnaires’ while staying in a healthcare facility.

“Treatment needs to be early and aggressive,” Goodyear told Fox News Digital. “Legionella infection is an intracellular infection that requires antibiotic treatment.”

Hot tub cruise ship

Legionella bacteria can grow and spread indoors via shower heads, sink faucets, hot tubs, water features/fountains, plumbing systems and other water systems. (iStock)

Antibiotics that are appropriate for Legionella infection include Levofloxacin and Azithromycin. 

“Therapy can be prescribed orally in healthy individuals … but intravenous antibiotics often prove to be the initial option for treatment secondary to the pathogenicity of the disease,” Goodyear said.

Prevention strategies

Currently, there are no vaccines for Legionnaires’ disease. 

The best strategy to prevent infection is to reduce the growth and spread of the Legionella bacteria.

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The CDC recommends that building owners and managers use a water management program to reduce the risk.

To prevent serious illness from Legionnaires’, Goodyear recommends that all smokers kick the habit, and also emphasizes the need to “aggressively support” chronic pulmonary disease.

How to avoid Paris pickpockets with safety tips from travelers and embassy

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When it comes to traveling abroad, some people may be worried about their safety and want to keep their guard up.

In the “r/ParisTravelGuide” forum on Reddit, a traveler asked others for advice on pickpockets. 

“My family will be traveling to Paris next month,” the person wrote. “It will be our first time visiting Europe, and we are very excited — but also a bit nervous.”

LOCALS RANT THEIR NEIGHBORHOOD NOW ‘LIKE DISNEYLAND’ AS POST-OLYMPICS TOURISM SURGES

The user added, “We tend to look quite innocent, and we’re worried we might be easy targets for pickpockets. We won’t have a tour guide and will be managing everything on our own.”

Others on the platform took to the comments section to share advice and their own experiences.

Each year some 2,000 Americans report their passports stolen or lost in Paris. (ALAIN JOCARD/AFP via Getty Images)

“Just know they target tourists,” wrote one person. “They only hang out in tourist areas and by your clothing it will be obvious you are not Parisian. They never bother me and I’ve never been robbed nor has a single person I know.”

Another user shared, “In the last 2 years, I’ve stopped two pickpockets in the subway. In one case, they were reaching into someone’s backpack and in the other for a phone in a loose back pocket. The strategy is to keep [your] items in places that are difficult to access.”

Said a different person, “Stay alert in touristy areas, keep your bag in front of you on the Metro, and avoid engaging with strangers who approach you (anyone).”

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

One person wrote, “Be mindful. Carry bags that close, wear a cross-body bag, keep all zippers closed, don’t flash cash or jewelry. And if a stranger approaches you to hold something or offers to take your photo, walk away.”

Said yet another person, “I’m staggered how many tourists I see on the Metro with a backpack on. Makes it so easy for pickpockets to steal from them.”

A Redditor wrote, “The [number] of people I watched on their phones by the doors of the trains was staggering and does present an opportunistic grab-and-run scenario. Don’t do that.”

busy paris street embassy warns pick pocketing

Both the U.S. Embassy and the Reddit community have provided pickpocket prevention strategies for tourists who travel to Paris. (iStock)

Each year some 2,000 Americans report their passports stolen or lost in Paris, according to the U.S. Embassy in France. 

The Embassy and Consulate in France have a whole page dedicated to “Pickpockets in Paris.”

Travelers are advised not to bring along more than $50 to $60 in cash.

Says the site, “The first rule of thumb is don’t have anything more in your wallet than you are willing to lose.”

The embassy also advises bringing only one credit card or ATM card along and only one piece of identification.

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Travelers are also advised not to bring along more than $50 to $60 in cash.

Tourist spots such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame and the Champs-Elysées are areas where visitors are most likely to be pickpocketed, according to the embassy.

paris police pick pocketing

“The first rule of thumb is don’t have anything more in your wallet than you are willing to lose.” (iStock)

“Americans in Paris should be particularly alert to thieves who commonly work near tourist attractions such as museums, monuments, restaurants, hotels, beaches, trains, train stations, airports, subways and target vehicles with non-local license plates,” the embassy cautions. 

The embassy also discusses the different tactics pickpocketers use, whether on the street or on public transportation.

“Two or more people will approach you and ask for directions.”

If riding the Metro, the embassy says that “the most popular is the crush-and-grab. You will be swarmed by several people all trying to get on or off.”

“While they are pushing you, they are also picking your pockets,” notes the advisory.

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“Another trick is to grab the purse of someone sitting right by the door and to hop off just as the doors are closing.”

Pickpocketers most frequently use a distraction technique on the streets. 

“Two or more people will approach you and ask for directions, try to sell you stuff or just crowd you. While you are occupied with one person, another is picking your pocket,” the embassy says. 

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Travelers should also watch out for something getting spilled or thrown on them, as a criminal may offer to help clean up while another person picks your pocket. 

The Consular Section of the Embassy has information on how to replace certain items which have been stolen or lost.

Stop Google from following your every move

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Google’s apps, such as Chrome, Maps, Search, and YouTube, are constantly tracking your activity and sending it to Google. But don’t worry, Google doesn’t use the data for nefarious purposes like selling it to third parties to line its pockets. It’s all used to improve and personalize your experience, leading to faster searches and relevant recommendations.

The downside? It means Google always knows what you’re doing or where you are when using its apps and services. Furthermore, having this data stored somewhere means it’s vulnerable to data breaches. If you’d prefer a tighter grip on your digital footprint, there are things you can do to stop Google from tracking you.

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A man conducting a Google search on a laptop.

A man conducting a Google search on a laptop. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

How to prevent Google from tracking your activity

Everything you do in Google’s apps is tracked in your Google account. Follow the steps below to put an end to it.

  • Open the browser on your computer and visit Google.com.
  • Click Sign In and sign in to your account.
Signing into Google.

Signing into Google. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Click the profile picture icon and select Manage your Google Account.
Clicking the "Manage your Google Account" option when signed into Google.

Clicking the “Manage your Google Account” option when signed into Google. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Go to Data & Privacy.
  • Then click Web & App Activity.
Navigating to the "Web & App Activity" settings page of a Google account.

Navigating to the “Web & App Activity” settings page of a Google account. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Click Turn off and select Turn off and delete activity. Afterward, follow the prompts to delete all stored data.
Turning off activity tracking on Google.

Turning off activity tracking on Google. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

How to turn off Google location tracking

Timeline is a Google Maps feature that shows all the places you’ve been and the routes taken to get there. The good thing is that Google automatically deletes this data every three months, but that is still a long time to have it around.

Timeline is not enabled by default, but if you turned it on and forgot, now is the time to turn it off.

  • Open the browser on your computer and visit Google.com.
  • Click Sign In and sign in to your account.
  • Click the profile icon and select Manage your Google Account.
  • Click Data & privacy.
  • Then scroll down and go to Timeline.
  • Click Turn off and click Turn off and delete activity to disable Timeline and delete all data immediately.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

How to disable personalized ads in your Google account

To serve you personalized ads, Google looks at your usage habits across its apps and services to create a marketing profile based on that. Unfortunately, you can’t disable ads completely, but you can disable ad personalization to stop the tracking.

  • Open the browser on your computer and visit Google.com.
  • Click Sign In and sign in to your account.
  • Click the profile icon and select Manage your Google Account.
  • Click Data & privacy.
  • Then go and click My Ads Center.
Navigating to the "My Ad Center" settings page of a Google account.

Navigating to the “My Ad Center” settings page of a Google account. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Set the Personalized ads toggle in the top right corner to Off. This will also turn off personalized ads on Google’s partner sites.
Disabling the "Personalized Ads" in a Google account.

Disabling the “Personalized Ads” in a Google account. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Pro tip for extra privacy

Even if you disable Google’s tracking settings, it’s still possible for other websites to collect your data through tools like Google Analytics and AdSense. To block even more trackers, use a privacy-focused browser.

For stronger protection, consider pairing these steps with a strong antivirus software. 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 & iOS devices at CyberGuy.com/LockUpYourTech.

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To add another layer of privacy, using a virtual private network (VPN) can hide your location and encrypt your internet activity. This makes it much harder for companies, advertisers, or hackers to monitor online behavior.

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.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Will turning off tracking stop all data collection?
A: Not completely. These steps reduce Google’s tracking, but some data may still be collected by websites using Google services like Analytics or Ads.

Q: Do I need to update these settings on each device?
A: No. Once you update your settings in your Google account, the changes apply across all devices using that account.

Q: Can I delete everything Google has already tracked?
A: Yes. You can delete past activity during the process of turning off each setting. Follow the prompts above to remove old data.

What this means for you

You don’t need to abandon Google to take control of your digital privacy. By adjusting just a few key settings, you can limit how much of your personal activity Google stores and uses. These changes give you more privacy while still letting you enjoy the convenience of your favorite apps like Maps, YouTube, and Chrome. It only takes a few minutes to make a big difference.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Your privacy needs might change as time goes on, so adjusting these settings is not a one-off event. Be sure to review your Google account regularly or explore the options to find ways to automate the data deletion process. For instance, you can set it so that Google automatically deletes your data every three, 18, or 36 months. If you want a more private browsing experience that removes a lot of the tracking headaches, consider using your browser’s incognito mode.

Is the convenience Google tracking offers worth it, or do you prefer to remain private? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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