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Qatar launches massive 3D-printed schools project to transform education

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Qatar is taking bold steps to transform its educational infrastructure. 

To lead this change, the country has launched one of the world’s largest 3D-printed construction projects. UCC Holding and the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) are heading the effort. As part of the plan, Qatar will build 14 public schools. Notably, two of them will use advanced 3D printing technology.

This initiative directly supports Qatar National Vision 2030, which prioritizes both innovation and sustainable growth. By using cutting-edge construction methods and forward-thinking design, Qatar is positioning itself as a global leader in scalable, eco-friendly architecture.

VERTICAL TINY HOMES REDEFINE COMPACT LIVING

3 building 1

Construction begins on the first school as part of Qatar’s 3D Printed Schools Project. (UCC Holding)

Bring in the experts of 3D printing construction

To tackle a project of this scale, UCC Holding brought in the experts. The company partnered with Danish firm COBOD, a global leader in 3D construction printing. As a result, COBOD supplied two massive, custom-built BOD2 printers. Each machine measures approximately 164 feet long, 90 feet wide and 49 feet high, about the size of a Boeing 737 hangar.

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These industrial printers can build structures up to five stories tall. They enable fast, accurate and cost-effective construction that traditional methods can’t match.

Before launching the project, UCC’s team of architects, engineers and technicians carried out extensive tests. At a trial site in Doha, they completed more than 100 full-scale component prints using a BOD2 printer. To further prepare for Qatar’s desert climate, the team engineered a custom concrete mix designed to cure properly in high heat. Additionally, they developed a special extrusion nozzle to ensure smooth, precise printing. 

3D building 2

Construction begins on the first school as part of Qatar’s 3D Printed Schools Project. (UCC Holding)

A project of amazing scale and vision

Each 3D-printed school is a two-story structure that will cover an area of 215,000 square feet. This is a total of 430,000 square feet. When compared to the biggest 3D-printed building we know of, these schools are 40 times bigger. They will be built on 328-by-328-foot plots. Therefore, making this project one of unprecedented scale for the region.

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Qatar’s desert formations were the inspiration behind the architectural design of the schools. They have wavy walls that look like dunes, something that can only be made possible through 3D printing. Building these unique curved shapes would be too expensive and difficult with traditional construction methods.

3D building 3

UCC Holdings and COBOD construction teams launch Qatar’s 3D Printed Schools Project. (UCC Holding)

How 3D printing enhances sustainability and innovation

Qatar’s 3D-printed school project goes beyond architectural innovation; it also marks a major step toward sustainable construction. 3D printing technology reduces material waste by up to 60% compared to traditional building methods. It also minimizes labor requirements and shortens construction timelines, leading to lower overall emissions and energy use.

Moreover, the ability to print complex, curved designs, like the dune-inspired walls of these schools, proves how digital construction methods can unlock new levels of creativity while staying cost-efficient. This approach not only supports Qatar’s environmental goals but also sets a new global standard for eco-friendly building design.

Kurt’s key takeaways

Qatar’s 3D-printed schools will be complete by the end of 2025 and demonstrate just how far construction technology has come. By combining both imaginative design and cutting-edge engineering, this project sets the standard for sustainable, scalable and future-ready educational infrastructure. Furthermore, it’s an impressive milestone for the region, and a blueprint for how nations worldwide can rethink how buildings are made using the latest technologies.

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Do you think 3D printing construction is a good alternative to traditional construction methods? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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Florida reports 4 deaths from flesh-eating bacteria found in seawater

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A type of flesh-eating bacteria has killed four people in Florida so far this year.

The state’s health department confirmed the deaths in a notice posted on the Florida Health website.

A total of 11 people have contracted the bacteria in 2025, according to the same source.

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Vibrio vulnificus is part of a wider group of Vibrio bacteria, which are found in coastal waters, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states. 

This specific bacterium, Vibrio vulnificus, typically lives in warm, brackish seawater, and can enter open wounds when people are swimming.

A type of flesh-eating bacteria has killed four people in Florida so far this year. (iStock)

Another potential source of infection is raw shellfish, especially oysters, Florida Health noted.

Although infections are rare, Vibrio vulnificus can cause an illness called vibriosis, often marked by vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain, as well as potentially severe skin infections, the above source cautioned.

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Signs and symptoms of a Vibrio skin infection include fever, redness, pain, swelling, warmth, discoloration and discharge, per the CDC’s website.

While healthy people generally experience only mild symptoms, those who are immunocompromised or have chronic liver disease can face serious health risks.

Vibrio vulnificus bacteria

Vibrio vulnificus is part of a wider group of Vibrio bacteria, which are found in coastal waters, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states.  (iStock)

If Vibrio vulnificus enters the bloodstream, it can cause severe illness marked by fever, chills, septic shock and blistering skin lesions, according to Florida Health. 

About half of these bloodstream infections are fatal.

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Some severe cases can cause an infection called necrotizing fasciitis, which is when the flesh around an open wound dies, the CDC cautions. This rare side effect has led to Vibrio vulnificus being described as a “flesh-eating bacteria.”

No cases of person-to-person transmission have been reported, Florida Health stated.

Diagnosis and treatment

The bacterial infection is diagnosed by testing cultures obtained from stool, wounds or blood, according to health officials.

For mild infections, the CDC recommends increasing fluid intake to prevent dehydration.

Man beach bandage

Vibrio vulnificus typically lives in warm, brackish seawater, and can enter open wounds when people are swimming. (iStock)

Those with severe or prolonged infections should receive antibiotics to improve survival rates.

For those with infected wounds, surgery may be necessary to remove dead tissue.

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“Aggressive attention should be given to the wound site; for patients with wound infections, amputation of the infected limb is sometimes necessary,” Florida Health stated. 

About one in five people will die from the infection, sometimes within a day or two of illness, the CDC states.

Prevention tips

Health officials caution against entering warm saltwater or brackish water if any fresh cuts, scrapes or wounds are present.

It’s also recommended to not consume raw oysters and other raw shellfish, and to avoid cross-contamination of other foods with raw seafood or its juices.

oysters on ice

Another potential source of infection is raw shellfish, especially oysters, health officials warned. (iStock)

Protective gloves should be worn when handling raw shellfish.

Those with liver disease, cancer, diabetes, HIV or thalassemia (a group of hereditary blood disorders) — as well as those who are taking immune-suppressing medications — are at a higher risk of complications and should take extra precautions, the CDC warns.

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In 2024, a total of 82 cases of Vibrio vulnificus and 19 deaths were reported to Florida Health.

There were 46 cases and 11 deaths in 2023.

Eating foods rich in choline could reduce Alzheimer’s risk, research finds

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Reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s could be as simple as eating the right food.

A new study by researchers in Boston, Chicago and Washington, D.C., found that eating foods high in choline could lower the risk of developing the common dementia.

Choline is an essential micronutrient found in various foods, including poultry, dairy products (such as milk, yogurt and eggs), cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and Brussels sprouts, beans and some fish, according to the USDA.

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Dietary choline intake has been associated with a lower risk of cognitive function and reduced risk of dementia, the researchers concluded.

In the study, participants averaging 81 years of age who did not have Alzheimer’s completed dietary questionnaires and underwent annual neurological exams.

A new study by researchers in Boston, Chicago and Washington, D.C., found that eating foods high in choline could lower the risk of developing the common dementia. (iStock)

After an eight-year follow-up, researchers determined that consuming about 350 milligrams of choline per day was associated with the lowest risk of clinical Alzheimer’s diagnoses in older adults.

Los Angeles-based registered dietitian nutritionist Ilana Muhlstein has also backed the impact of choline on brain health, citing a 2024 China-based study that found intake improves cognitive function, especially among women.

“Your brain uses 20% to 30% of the calories you consume.”

“This is the study that inspired me to start supplementing choline,” she said. “My memory has gotten worse over the years. I first wrote it off as ‘pregnancy brain,’ then ‘mommy brain,’ but eventually realized I should do my best to help it.” 

“I already sleep well, exercise regularly, play mahjong and limit my alcohol, so choline was the next obvious tool worth trying.” 

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Muhlstein shared that more than 90% of the choline in eggs comes from the yolk. For those who choose to eat egg whites for dietary reasons, taking a choline supplement may be a better option.

Choline intake should be tailored to each person’s individual needs, the nutritionist noted, referencing guidance from the Harvard School of Public Health.

Premenopausal women may have lower requirements for dietary choline, because higher estrogen levels stimulate the creation of choline in the body,” the university wrote.

hands cutting eggs on toast

Over 90% of choline in an egg is found in the yolk, according to a dietitian nutritionist. (iStock)

In a separate interview with Fox News Digital, Dr. Daniel Amen, a psychiatrist, brain imaging doctor and founder of Amen Clinics in California, emphasized the importance of eating the right foods for brain health.

“Your brain uses 20% to 30% of the calories you consume,” he said. “So, nutrition is critical to help your brain or hurt your brain.” 

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Walnuts are one of Amen’s favorite brain-healthy food options, as they contain choline as well as omega-3 fatty acids.

He also recommends including wild salmon as a dietary staple, as it’s high in omega-3s and healthy protein, as well as organic blueberries and green, leafy vegetables.

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“If you had a salad every day, and you put blueberries and salmon and walnuts on it with a little lemon and olive oil, that would be a perfect brain-boosting lunch,” he said.

doctor examining image of a brain and dr. daniel amen headshot

Nutrition is “critical” for brain health, according to Dr. Daniel Amen, a psychiatrist, brain imaging doctor and founder of Amen Clinics in California. (Katie Levine; iStock)

The doctor also suggested considering certain supplements to foster better brain health, including vitamin D, omega-3 or fish oil, or a daily multi-vitamin.

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

“Nearly two-thirds of the American population is low in vitamin D,” he said. “And if it’s low, it’s a universal risk factor for every bad thing related to your brain, but also to your body, including obesity and cancer … Know and optimize your vitamin D level.”

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

Cyborg beetles with tiny backpacks could locate survivors in disaster zones

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In a groundbreaking fusion of nature and technology, researchers at the University of Queensland have developed remote-controlled beetles equipped with tiny, removable backpacks that could drastically reduce the time it takes to locate survivors in disaster zones. 

Also known as cyborg beetles, these hybrid helpers are part of an ambitious project to improve emergency response in situations like building collapses, earthquakes or industrial explosions. By combining natural mobility with simple controls, researchers are developing a faster, more flexible way to reach people in hard-to-access areas.

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cyborg beetle 1

A close-up of a cyborg beetle with mounted electronics. (University of Queensland)

How cyborg beetles could navigate disaster zones better than robots

The team’s innovation involves fitting darkling beetles, or Zophobas morio, their scientific name, with microchip backpacks that deliver small electrical signals to guide their movement. These signals stimulate either the beetle’s antennae or their hardened forewings, prompting them to turn, stop or climb. The researchers even demonstrated real-time control using a standard video game controller.

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Robots at this scale still struggle with climbing vertical surfaces and navigating uneven terrain. These beetles, on the other hand, are naturally built for it. Their footpads and sensory systems let them crawl through narrow cracks and over rubble. This makes them well-suited for the unpredictable conditions found in disaster zones.

Beetles were chosen for their strength, agility and resilience. Despite their small size, they can carry equipment nearly equal to their own body weight, which makes them an ideal platform for compact sensors and control systems in tight, dangerous spaces. 

cyborg beetle 2

A cyborg beetle with a microchip backpack climbs over a rock’s surface. (University of Queensland)

How biology is shaping the next generation of rescue tech

Unlike custom-built robots, these beetles don’t need motors or gears to move. Their natural ability to climb, squeeze and maneuver through tight spaces eliminates the need for complex mechanical systems. The programmable backpack simply adds directional control without harming the beetle or shortening its lifespan. The result is a biological tool that can access places humans and machines cannot. This could help reduce the time it takes to locate survivors in critical situations.

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cyborg beetle 3

A cyborg beetle with a small circuit board on its back sits on top of a person’s hand. (University of Queensland)

The future of cyborg beetles in emergency response

Researchers are now working to integrate miniature cameras and compact power systems to make the beetles even more effective. The goal is to create a lightweight, mobile, and affordable tool that can deliver real-time information from inside collapsed structures and hazardous environments. The team hopes to test the system in a live emergency simulation within the next five years. If successful, cyborg beetles could become a valuable part of urban response efforts around the world. 

Kurt’s key takeaway

Researchers are proving that cyborg beetles could play a real role in saving lives. By guiding beetles through tight, dangerous spaces using tiny backpacks and simple controls, scientists are exploring a low-cost and high-impact way to locate survivors where robots and humans can’t go. The technology is still in development, but the potential is clear, especially in situations where every second counts.

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Would you trust a rescue led by a cyborg beetle? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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Mental health experts help Texas flood victims cope with trauma and loss

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As rescue crews and volunteers work to clean up after the tragic flooding that violently swept through central Texas over the July 4 weekend, others are looking to help survivors and victims’ loved ones mentally recover. Dallas-based pediatric psychiatrist Dr. Sabrina Browne spoke with Fox News Digital about what survivors and those close to victims could be grappling with.

“Tragedies like this, in a very literal sense, hit close to home, right? It’s one thing when you see things playing out on TV, but when it happens in your community, it really affects your life on every level,” Browne told Fox News Digital. “The reality for these families is that once the camera crews are gone and once the aid organizations are packing up, they’re still going to be living with the repercussions of this.”

There are several possible reactions people may have in the wake of a tragedy, like the recent flooding. According to Browne, one of the most common reactions is a loss of a “feeling of safety” and a “sense of stability.”

“You take for granted that you’re gonna wake up in the morning, go about your day, you’re going to come home to your house, right? And all of those things. And so they lose that sense of stability,” Browne said. 

People leave flowers for the victims of the deadly flood in Kerrville, Texas, on July 12, 2025. (Nick Wagner/Xinhua via Getty Images)

TEXAS FLOOD SURVIVORS LOOK FOR GOD IN THE FACE OF TRAGEDY

She added that along with this loss of stability, some people can experience anxiety, worry or even fear that another disaster is around the corner. The mental health professional also mentioned that flood survivors could experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and even survivor’s guilt.

Browne has unique experience in helping Texas families through tragedy, having supported families in the wake of the 2022 Uvalde school shooting, in which 19 children and two teachers were killed at Robb Elementary School.

Like the case of the Uvalde shooting, many of the flood victims in Texas were children. Browne spoke to the differences in treating adults versus children, emphasizing that “kids aren’t just little adults.”

“When we talk about kids, that’s a wide spectrum of ages and developmental levels,” Browne said. “A child who is 12 is going to be having a different experience than a child who’s seven, right? Because they’re more mature, they cognitively can understand things.”

Beyond their ability to understand what has happened, this could be a child’s first time dealing with disaster and death.

“Oftentimes, kids are encountering [death] in the setting of losing a grandparent or someone where it feels removed from them. But when they’re seeing their peers, other kids in camp, when school starts back up, starting school and seeing maybe their friends aren’t there, that brings it to a very real level so that now they’re having to wrap their heads around, what does that mean? And then they’re also struggling with, is this something that could happen to me? And so that can add another layer.”

Cade Loop bridge flooded and damaged

Crews work to clear debris from the Cade Loop bridge along the Guadalupe River on Saturday, July 5, 2025, in Ingram, Texas.  (AP Photo/Rodolfo Gonzalez)

FAITH BRINGS LIGHT TO DEVASTATED TEXAS TOWN AFTER DEADLY FLOODING DISASTER

Texas professionals like Browne aren’t alone in their work to help flood victims recover, Spring Health, a company focused on providing mental health solutions, recently committed $500,000 in free services for flood victims in Texas, North Carolina and New Mexico.

“Recovering from a disaster isn’t just about rebuilding what was lost. It is also about caring for the emotional toll that follows. We want people to know they are not alone,” Spring Health CEO April Koh told Fox News Digital. “This program is here to ensure that those impacted have a way to access high-quality, confidential mental health support at no cost.”

As part of its commitment to providing care, Spring Health is making virtual sessions with licensed clinicians available for those who cannot access physical in-person help.

Vigil for Texas flood victims

Libbie Horton, center, prays during a vigil at a memorial wall erected in memory of the Kerr County flood victims in Kerrville, Texas on July 11, 2025. (Danielle Villasana for The Washington Post via Getty Images)

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When it comes to knowing if your child needs professional help, Browne told Fox News Digital that it comes down to noticing changes in day-to-day behavior. She said that there are reactions parents can expect to see, such as their child regressing and maybe wanting to sleep in their room to feel safe.

“If we notice that, you know, they’re, they are not sleeping, they don’t want to eat, they don’t want to play, right? Those big shifts, that is a sign of we need to get them in to see somebody for more support,” Browne said.

Florida beach bans visitors from digging deep holes in sand for safety and turtle protection

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As families flock to the coasts this summer, at least one beach may be putting a damper on children’s plans to dig in the sand.

The City of Holmes Beach in Florida passed a rule this summer that declares, “No holes on beach.”  

Holmes Beach City Commissioner Carol Whitmore told FOX 13 the rule is being implemented to protect both beachgoers and wildlife. 

SUMMER BEACH BATTLE BETWEEN LOCALS AND VISITORS HEATS UP AS OVERTOURISM SOARS

“People aren’t listening. They’re on vacation, they’re not thinking and, unfortunately, we have to think about the people [then] coming to the beach after they leave,” said Whitmore. 

“We have to think about their safety.”

A new safety rule at one Florida beach (not pictured) prohibits digging holes deeper than one foot. It also bans metal shovels. (iStock)

The ordinance states that “no person shall dig holes in the sandy gulf beach deeper than one (1) foot” — and it bans “metal shovels” such as gardening tools. 

Children’s toy shovels and plastic shovels are still permitted. =

“We almost had a [person] fall into a gigantic hole that nobody covered up. It’s a safety issue,” Whitmore added. 

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In 2024, FOX 13 reported that a young girl died after falling into a nearly six-foot hole in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea with the sand collapsing on her. 

holmes beach hole florida

“We almost had a [person] fall into a gigantic hole that nobody covered up. It’s a safety issue.” (Manatee Co. Government)

Nearly 143 million people visited the Sunshine State last year, according to Visit Florida. 

The large holes also present a threat to wildlife — specifically sea turtles. 

“These holes can be 3 to 6 feet deep, and then they leave and don’t cover them back up. We’ve got photos of our turtles getting caught in the holes, and they can’t survive,” said Whitmore.  

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A visitor at Manatee Public Beach, Waylon Slabach, told FOX 13 his daughter loves digging in the sand.

Sand toys at the beach

Children’s toy shovels and plastic shovels are still permitted.  (iStock)

“On a Sunday afternoon, we love to bring her out here. Have her play and dig holes and fill them back in before we leave,” he said. 

Waylon said it is “easy” to fill the holes his daughter makes to protect turtles. 

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The National Ocean Service says on its website that beachgoers can “help sea turtle mothers and their offspring improve their chances of survival” by filling holes made in the sand. 

Landline identity theft gives scammers access to drain bank accounts

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Landline identity theft is an emerging threat that gives scammers backdoor access to your accounts. 

An outdated phone number, especially a forgotten landline, can help them bypass security and drain your savings. 

Here’s how it happens and how to stop it.

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IS YOUR PHONE HACKED? HOW TO TELL AND WHAT TO DO

man on phone

A man on a phone call using a landline telephone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

How forgotten landline identity theft drained a bank account

Richard from Reno, Nevada, shared a troubling story. His friend lost money to scammers because their old landline number was still linked to a bank account.

It started with a credit alert asking whether the friend had opened a new card. They said no and thought the issue was resolved.

But soon after, they couldn’t access their bank or investment accounts. Despite having transaction alerts enabled, the money was already gone.

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The scammer didn’t hack a password. Instead, they used a security loophole, an outdated landline still listed on file.

“My friend had an old but active landline linked to their bank account,” Richard said. “The thief convinced the phone company to port the number to a mobile device. Then they used it to intercept security codes and drain the account.”

The scammer requested a password reset. The bank sent a verification code to the old number, now controlled by the scammer. That code let them change the login, lock the victim out, and move the funds.

Credit monitoring caught the new credit inquiry but failed to detect the fraud inside the existing accounts. By the time access was restored, the money had disappeared.

man shouting

A man screaming into a phone receiver of a landline phone  (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Why landline identity theft is so easy to pull off

This scam highlights how identity thieves evolve. They don’t always need advanced tools. Sometimes, they just use the details you’ve forgotten.

The role of number porting

The attacker used number porting, a process meant to help people keep their number when switching carriers. It’s legitimate, until scammers exploit it.

In this case, the thief pretended to be the victim and asked the phone company to transfer the landline number to a mobile device. Once the number was active, they received calls and texts, including two-factor authentication (2FA) codes.

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How old contact info creates new risks

Many people forget to update recovery settings after creating an account. But an outdated phone number or email can still receive security codes. If a scammer gains control of those recovery tools, your accounts are wide open.

The overlooked weaknesses that made this attack work

Even small gaps in your security settings can lead to big problems. These were the key vulnerabilities in this case:

Old phone numbers stay linked too long

Scammers can hijack even inactive numbers through porting. If those numbers still connect to your bank or email, they become an easy target.

Credit monitoring can miss real-time fraud

Tools that monitor new credit accounts won’t always detect unauthorized transactions in your existing bank or investment accounts.

Weak 2FA setups can be hijacked

2FA is helpful, but only when the linked phone number or email is secure. If a scammer controls that method, they can bypass your protections.

phones

An older style landline telephone next to smartphone  (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

How to prevent landline identity theft

You can’t stop scammers from trying, but you can make it much harder for them to succeed. Use these steps to reduce your risk.

1. Audit your account recovery options: Check your recovery settings on every important account. Delete old phone numbers or backup emails. Keep only active, secure options on file.

2. Use an authenticator app: Authenticator apps like Google Authenticator, Authy, or Microsoft Authenticator generate one-time login codes on your device. This is safer than relying on text messages, which scammers can intercept.

3. Freeze number porting with your carrier: Contact your phone provider and ask about port-out protection. This feature blocks scammers from transferring your number without extra identity verification like a PIN or in-person request.

4. Remove your info from data broker sites: Scammers gather personal details like old numbers from public broker listings. Use a data removal service to erase this info from the web. 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.

5. Monitor your bank activity directly: Set up alerts through your bank for every transaction. Log in regularly, even if you haven’t received any warnings, to catch fraud faster.

6. Use a password manager: A strong, unique password protects each account. A tool like a password manager creates and stores complex passwords for you. It also tracks password health and alerts you to possible breaches. Get more details about my best expert-reviewed Password Managers of 2025 at Cyberguy.com/Passwords.

7. Consider full identity theft protection: Even with strong passwords and 2FA, your personal info can still be exposed. An identity theft protection service offers dark web monitoring, account alerts, and some offer up to $1 million in identity theft insurance. See my tips and best picks on how to protect yourself from identity theft at Cyberguy.com/IdentityTheft.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Landline identity theft shows that forgotten account settings can turn into serious threats. Take a few minutes to review your recovery options. Switch to authenticator apps. Set up port-out protection. And don’t rely on credit monitoring alone, it can’t catch everything. These simple steps can help you stay ahead of evolving scams and protect your most important accounts.

Have you experienced a similar scam or spotted a new tactic? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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Young adults face higher risk of GI cancers due to diet choices, report shows

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The rates of gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are rising among young adults, with a new peer-reviewed study pointing to the American diet and lifestyle as the primary culprits.

The rising risk in younger generations may be linked more to environmental factors than genetics, stated the report, which was recently published in the British Journal of Surgery.

“Some shared risk factors for early-onset (EO) GI cancer include obesity, sedentary lifestyle, excessive alcohol consumption and smoking,” lead researcher Sara Char, M.D., at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, told Fox News Digital.

RARE CANCER DIAGNOSES SURGE DRAMATICALLY AMONG MILLENNIALS AND GEN X

The study notes that recent generations are more likely to adopt a “Western-pattern diet” and a “sedentary lifestyle.”

Colorectal is the most common type of early-onset GI cancer, but pancreatic, esophageal, gastric, biliary, appendiceal and neuroendocrine cancers are also rising in adults under 50, Char noted.

The report notes that recent generations are more likely to adopt a “Western-pattern diet” and a sedentary lifestyle. (iStock)

Adults born in 1990 have twice the risk of colon cancer and four times the risk of rectal cancer compared to those born in 1950, according to a previous study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.

How diet impacts risk

Paul Oberstein, M.D., director of the Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology Program at NYU Langone’s Perlmutter Cancer Center, told Fox News Digital that a person’s diet does indeed impact the risk of colon cancer.

YOUR FAVORITE ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE COULD BE LINKED TO DEADLY FORM OF CANCER, STUDY FINDS

“It is reported from previous studies that when someone has a higher amount of foods typical of a Western diet, they have a higher risk of colon cancer,” said Oberstein, who was not involved in the research.

A “Western diet” typically includes a higher intake of red and processed meats, processed and added sugars, and highly processed and refined grains, according to the oncologist.

A doctor holding a dark blue ribbon for colon cancer

Adults born in 1990 have twice the risk of colon cancer and four times the risk of rectal cancer compared to those born in 1950. (iStock)

Processed deli meats, sugary drinks and processed grain snacks are also commonly associated with this type of diet. 

Research and recommendations

While the incidence of colon cancer in this group overall remains low, Oberstein recommends investing in more research to explore which factors are causing the increase.

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“We need to conduct more research on whether diet, vitamin supplements, alcohol or other things we ingest or use are contributing to this increase,” he said. 

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The expert also emphasized the importance of following the recommended colon cancer screening guidelines, which begin at 45 years old for most people, and seeking medical attention if any symptoms appear.

Belly fat

“We need to conduct more research on whether diet, vitamin supplements, alcohol or other things we ingest or use are contributing to this increase,” an oncologist said.  (iStock)

Common warning signs include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, unexplained back or abdominal pain, or unintentional weight loss, all of which warrant speaking to a doctor for an “urgent evaluation,” according to Char.

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The researcher added that younger individuals can take preventative measures such as not smoking, avoiding excessive alcohol, limiting red meat consumption, staying physically active and maintaining a healthy body weight.

Tesla unveils solar-powered Oasis Supercharger operating off-grid

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Tesla just rolled out something big: the Oasis Supercharger. This isn’t your average charging station; it’s a massive, solar-powered site in Lost Hills, California, that could completely change the way we think about fueling electric vehicles. 

Instead of relying on the traditional power grid, the Oasis runs on clean, renewable energy, showing us what the future of sustainable EV charging might actually look like.

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The Oasis Supercharger  (Tesla)

Tesla delivers on solar Supercharger vision with off-grid charging station

Tesla has long promised to integrate solar panels and battery storage into its Supercharger stations. CEO Elon Musk envisioned a network where most stations could operate off-grid, powered by renewable energy. While a few stations received solar upgrades over the years, most remained reliant on conventional electricity sources. Now, with the Oasis project, Tesla is finally delivering on that promise in a big way.

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Inside the Oasis Supercharger: Tesla’s largest solar EV charging hub

The Oasis Supercharger is truly massive. It will eventually offer 168 charging stalls, with half of them already operational. The station is powered by an impressive 11 megawatts of solar panels, which include both ground-mounted arrays and solar canopies. These panels cover 30 acres of land, making it one of the largest solar-powered EV charging stations in the world. To store the energy generated by the solar farm, Tesla has installed 10 Megapacks, which together provide 39 megawatt-hours of battery capacity.

What makes Oasis especially remarkable is its ability to operate completely off the grid. This means it can provide reliable charging even during power outages or in remote locations where grid access is limited. Tesla brought 84 stalls online just in time for the busy Fourth of July travel weekend, and the remaining stalls, along with a new driver lounge, are expected to open later this year.

tesla solar

The Oasis Supercharger  (Tesla)

Why Tesla’s solar-powered Oasis Supercharger is a game-changer

This project is important for several reasons. First, it significantly reduces the strain on local utility grids by generating and storing its own energy. This makes the charging station more resilient and less vulnerable to power disruptions.

Second, it proves that large-scale, solar-powered EV infrastructure is not only feasible but practical. As electric vehicles become more popular, the demand for sustainable and reliable charging options will grow, and Oasis offers a clear vision of how to meet that demand.

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Tesla’s Oasis Supercharger sets a new standard for the industry. It shows that EV charging stations can be fully powered by renewable energy and operate independently from the grid. This approach could transform how we think about fueling electric vehicles and help accelerate the transition to clean transportation.

Regulatory challenges could slow future off-grid EV charging projects

Despite this impressive achievement, challenges remain. Recent changes in U.S. legislation have reduced incentives for solar energy and battery storage projects. These policy shifts could slow down the development of similar off-grid charging stations across the country. As a result, the expansion of renewable energy and EV infrastructure might face headwinds in the near future.

tesla solar 3

The Oasis Supercharger  (Tesla)

Kurt’s key takeaways

Tesla’s Oasis Supercharger really shows us what’s possible for the future of EV charging. It brings together clean energy, smart technology, and real-world reliability in a way we haven’t seen before. But with new regulations and so much demand for charging, it makes you wonder, will other companies and governments step up and build more solar-powered, off-grid stations like this? Or is Oasis going to stand alone as a rare example, while most charging stations keep relying on traditional energy?

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What do you think it will take to make this kind of green innovation the new normal? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com/Contact 

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Jack Dorsey’s Bitchat app lets you message without internet connection

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Few things frustrate internet users more than losing connection, being watched online or dealing with censorship. If you’ve ever had spotty service or worried about who might be reading your messages, you’re not alone. Jack Dorsey, the co-founder of Twitter (now X), is developing a new instant messaging app called Bitchat that lets you communicate without needing an internet connection.

Bitchat uses a decentralized mesh network to link people directly. This setup removes the need for central servers and makes it possible to send secure messages even when you’re offline. It’s a fresh take on messaging privacy, and here’s how it works.

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META AI’S NEW CHATBOT RAISES PRIVACY ALARMS

bitchat 1

Messaging on Bitchat  (@jack/X)

How Bitchat’s Bluetooth messaging app works without internet

Bitchat works by using Bluetooth to send messages to nearby devices. It’s designed like old-school chat rooms, where people can message each other directly or go into topic-based chat rooms with private conversations that are intended to be encrypted. Messages can travel up to 984 feet in ideal conditions when messaging directly, or hop device-to-device through other Bitchat-enabled phones to reach their destination in less connected zones.

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In a nutshell, Bitchat provides internet- and server-free communication, messages that are intended to disappear by default, no requirement for user IDs (email or phone number), and password-protected chat rooms.

Furthermore, it doesn’t collect personal data, and the technology it’s built on is intended to work across different devices and platforms, although it’s currently only available on iOS via TestFlight. Bitchat is a strong step toward privacy-first messaging, but users are cautioned not to rely on it for sensitive communications at this early stage.

bitchat 2

A private chat in Bitchat  (@jack/X)

Why this offline messaging app could solve major connectivity problems

Bitchat tackles several pressing challenges of the digital age. For instance, those with limited access to the internet will find it useful during network outages or in areas with poor connectivity. People will also be able to use it in regions with a lot of data restrictions due to government sanctions. Furthermore, it provides true digital autonomy since there’s no centralized service storing your communications.

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What Bitchat is doing is not entirely new. Apps like FireChat and Bridgefy explored similar offline messaging approaches, and while they gained brief popularity during protests and emergencies, they struggled with security flaws and scalability. However, it’s Bitchat’s renewed urgency at a time when online freedom is increasingly under threat that might propel it above those that came before.

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Bitchat features  (@jack/X)

Upcoming features for Bitchat’s private Bluetooth messaging app

Bitchat is currently in early testing via Apple’s TestFlight program. Right now, it’s in the experimental phase. However, Dorsey has hinted that he will add more features like Wi-Fi Direct to boost its speed and range. Also, with the technology behind Bitchat being open and decentralized, we could see it embedded into other platforms, meaning more and more people might be using it in the near future.

Kurt’s key takeaways

Bitchat could spark a new era of communication. The app works offline and gives you control over your conversations. You don’t have to rely on centralized systems. Bitchat lets you send messages without anyone snooping or profiting from your data. As more people use it, Bitchat could serve as a lifeline during crises. It may help those living under digital restrictions. The app could also challenge companies that ignore privacy. As digital surveillance grows, this app might become more than just a trend. It could be exactly what we need.

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In what scenarios do you see apps like Bitchat being useful to you? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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