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Teen dies after sand tunnel collapses at popular Italian beach resort

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A day at the beach turned tragic when a 17-year-old boy was killed after a sand tunnel he was digging abruptly collapsed, burying him alive.

The teen, identified as Riccardo Boni by several Italian media outlets, was vacationing in Montalto di Castro, Italy, with his family when the incident occurred on Thursday, July 10.

Boni’s family was staying at a resort in Montalto di Castro, approximately 70 miles north of Rome. The collapse happened around 3:00 p.m. local time while he was on the beach with his father and siblings.

According to local outlet Corriere della Sera, Riccardo Boni and his younger siblings had moved closer to the shoreline, where they began digging a large hole that was reportedly nearly five feet deep, in a more secluded area of the beach. Meanwhile, their father was nearby, dozing off under a beach umbrella. 

FATHER AND SON DROWN IN LAKE MICHIGAN DURING WEEKEND FAMILY BOATING TRIP TRAGEDY

An aerial view shows Lido of Ostia, Rome’s seaside, with private beaches closed for the winter season, on November 10, 2024.  (Photo by Andrea BERNARDI / AFP) (Photo by ANDREA BERNARDI/AFP via Getty Images)

Suddenly, the walls of the tunnel gave way, trapping the teen beneath the sand, the outlet reported. 

The boy remained buried until his father woke up and realized his oldest son was missing. One of his brothers cried out, “Riccardo is under the sand,” according to The Sun. The siblings pointed to the location of the collapsed tunnel, prompting their father and nearby beachgoers to rush over and frantically dig in search of him.

FREAK ACCIDENT AT THE BEACH SENDS TEEN TO ICU AS MOM WARNS OF WATERFRONT DANGER

Italian beach

A view of a beach in Cinque Terre, Liguria, Italy on July 27, 2024.  (Photo by Gian Marco Benedetto/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Tragically, the boy was found buried in the sand, unresponsive and showing no signs of life. First responders arrived within minutes, including an air ambulance, working to revive him, but it was too late, and the boy could not be saved, the outlet reported. 

“No-one realized what had happened,” Lieutenant Daniele Tramontana, the Carabiniere officer leading the police investigation, told The Sun.

AMERICAN TOURIST REPORTEDLY IMPALED ON ROME’S COLOSSEUM FENCE AS DOZENS WATCH IN HORROR

People walking and playing on a beach

Children dig a hole on a beach as people walk by.  (Amy Beth Bennett/South Florida Sun Sentinel/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)

“They lost a lot of time because they couldn’t see him. When they realized he was missing they began to look for him but it was too late,” he continued. 

A witness on the beach told Corriere della Serra that “no one on the beach had heard the teenager screaming because he was completely buried within minutes.” 

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A police investigation has since been opened “against persons unknown” in connection with the fatal accident, the outlet added, as authorities consider whether an autopsy will be required.

“I have spoken to colleagues, and we have never heard of anything like this happening before in Italy,” Tramontana said. “We deal with terrible situations all the time, but we can’t imagine how a game on the beach ended up this way.” 

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

Ancient Pompeii garden has been reconstructed with 800 roses and 1,200 violets

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An ancient garden in Pompeii has been reconstructed with thousands of historically accurate plants — breathing new life into a once-thriving Roman sanctuary.

The Pompeii Archaeological Park announced the recent reconstruction of the Garden of Hercules in a June Facebook post.

The garden features 800 “antique” roses and 1,200 violets, along with 1,000 ruscus plants, also known as butcher’s bloom.

ARCHAEOLOGISTS UNCOVER LONG-LOST ANCIENT ROMAN BUILDING AT CONSTRUCTION SITE WITH A LITTLE HELP

Cherry trees, grapevines and quince trees were also planted at the site, which is near a structure known as the House of the Garden of Hercules.

The Hercules reference comes from a marble statue of the god that was found in a shrine called a lararium.

An ancient garden in Pompeii has been reconstructed with 800 antique roses and 1,200 violets near the House of the Garden of Hercules. (Pompeii Archaeological Park via Facebook)

“It is a typical ‘row house’ of Pompeii, known for the inscription cras credo (‘tomorrow, we give credit’) at the entrance,” the archaeological park said in its statement.

Also known as the House of the Perfumer, the dwelling was built in the third century B.C., around 300 years before the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D.

ANCIENT ROMAN THEATER DISCOVERED BENEATH TOWN HALL THANKS TO MASSIVE EARTHQUAKES

The eruption wasn’t the only natural disaster the house saw: It was almost destroyed in an earthquake in 62 A.D. 

“Production was still active at the time of the Vesuvius eruption.”

At the time of the earthquake, the homeowner acquired and demolished neighboring townhouses, or domus, to create the garden.

The purpose of this garden, according to the park, was to cultivate and sell flowers. 

Reconstructed Pompeii garden next to tree

The reconstructed garden in Pompeii now features more than 3,000 plants historically grown in the ancient Roman world. (Pompeii Archaeological Park via Facebook)

Historians believe the blossoms were used to produce perfume, leading to its nickname of a “perfume garden.”

“Originally, the house comprised eight rooms and a vegetable garden,” the statement noted. “Production was still active at the time of the Vesuvius eruption.”

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After the eruption, the house lay in ruin for almost 1,900 years before it was eventually excavated in the 20th century.

Numerous Ancient Roman objects, including small glass bottles for perfumes, were found during the excavations.

Wide view of various crops in garden

Experts used archaeological and botanical evidence to select species that would have been familiar to Roman gardeners. (Pompeii Archaeological Park via Facebook)

Archaeologists also found that the property was extensively renovated before it was destroyed.

“Notably, some rooms in the House of the Garden of Hercules contained unused construction materials,” the archaeological park noted. 

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“From the mid-1st century BC, the area underwent structural mergers and demolitions, transforming into a district dedicated to specialized production.”

View of Pompeii garden within stone structure

Also called the House of the Perfumer, the residence dates back to the third century B.C. (Pompeii Archaeological Park via Facebook)

The ruins of Pompeii have captivated archaeologists ever since they were uncovered at the end of the 16th century.

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New revelations about the site still emerge today.

For example, in April, the Pompeii Archaeological Park released new details about an ancient family’s fight for survival, thanks to an excavation.

China-based scammers create fake shopping sites mimicking popular brands

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Look at the image. That’s not the real Omaha Steaks. It’s from a fake site designed to steal your money.

It’s happening all over the internet right now. You see a great deal on name-brand stuff, a new smartwatch, fancy cookware, maybe some designer jeans, and you click. 

Everything looks real. The logos, the layout, even Apple and Google Pay are options. But it’s a scam, and now your credit card info is out there.

5-MINUTE CLEANUP FOR YOUR PHONE AND COMPUTER

A massive scam targeting you

Silent Push analysts uncovered thousands of fake websites posing as trusted stores like Apple, Michael Kors, Harbor Freight, REI, Omaha Steaks and more. There’s a massive global scam operation that uses real payment methods on fake checkout pages. Like thousands-of-sites massive.

An image from a fake site designed to steal your money.

An image of a fake “Omaha Steaks” website designed to steal your money. (Silent Push)

The twist? The criminals, likely based in China, take your payment and ghost you. No product. No refund. No customer service. Total fake-out.

I’M A TECH PRO AND THESE ARE MY SECRETS TO BETTER FLIGHTS AND LUXURY TRAVEL

They cloned sites

They’re copying everything. Logos, layouts, even the checkout process, so much so that you’d swear you were on the real REI website while buying $10 trail shoes. 

But there were some sites with mismatched logos and products. A Harbor Freight clone showed Wrangler jeans.

photo illustration of person holding a credit card shopping online

FILE PHOTO: A photo illustration of a person shopping online. (iStock)

Even worse: These scam sites are popping up faster than hosting companies can take them down. Many are still up right now.

IS YOUR PHONE LISTENING TO EVERYTHING YOU SAY? IT’S COMPLICATED

Don’t fall for it 

  • Slow down and read. Misspelled words, weird domain names like “nordstromltems.com” (that’s an L, not an I) or random products are huge red flags.
  • Use virtual cards or a credit card. Not a debit card. You need that fraud protection.
  • Stick to the real URL. Skip the sketchy ads. Always type the URL in yourself.
  • If the deal looks too good, it probably is a scam. Period.
Hacking

FILE PHOTO: A photo illustration of a cybercriminal. (iStock)

Bottom line: If the deal looks like it crawled straight out of your dreams, it’s probably from your nightmares. Slow down before you click “buy.” 

Now you know this is happening. This scam campaign is a big one, and you need to stay sharp. Help save the world and use the icons below to share this know-how with your family and friends.

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Get tech-smarter on your schedule

Award-winning host Kim Komando is your secret weapon for navigating tech.

  • National radio: Airing on 500+ stations across the US – Find yours or get the free podcast.
  • Daily newsletter: Join 650,000 people who read the Current (free!)
  • Watch: On Kim’s YouTube channel

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Seine River in Paris reopens for public swimming after Olympic cleanup efforts

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The Seine River in Paris, France, has officially reopened for public swimming. (See the video at the top of this article.) 

This is the first time the river has been opened to swimmers since 1923, Reuters reported.

The July 5 re-opening arrived after a major push to clean up the once-polluted river ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics, where events like men’s and women’s triathlon were set to take place.

BEACH BACTERIA WARNINGS PLAGUE FOURTH OF JULY WEEKEND PLANS NATIONWIDE

Last-minute testing considered the water safe for swimmers, although the men’s race was postponed for a day due to safety concerns. 

For the Olympic Games Opening Ceremony, each nation was also boated down the river, making the Seine a focal point for Olympians and visitors.

Athletes are shown diving into the Seine to start the swimming stage of the men’s individual triathlon at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in central Paris on July 31, 2024.  (ANNE-CHRISTINE POUJOULAT/AFP via Getty Images)

Now, the public can swim at three sites along the banks of the river. 

These sites are available for more than 1,000 swimmers to visit daily until August 31.

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The first of the swimmers shared their thoughts with Reuters.

“Really nice, I’m impressed, surprised,” said a 24-year-old Brazilian who lives in Paris. “I never imagined being in the water close to the Eiffel Tower.”

a woman swims in the seine river overlooking the Eiffel tower

Parisians and visitors return to the Seine to swim officially for the first time in 100 years near the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France, on July 5, 2025. (Mohamad Salaheldin Abdelg Alsayed/Anadolu via Getty Images)

A 51-year-old woman said, “The water is clean, it’s warm, it’s clear. There is a bit of algae, but that’s normal.”

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The clean-up effort reportedly included investments connecting tens of thousands of homes to the sewer system, upgrading water treatment facilities and constructing rainwater storage reservoirs to prevent sewer overflow during heavy storms.

swimmers dip in the seine river in paris

Swimmers report clean conditions in Paris’s Seine River, re-opened on July 5, 2025, for the first time since 1923. (Mohamad Salaheldin Abdelg Alsayed/Anadolu via Getty Images)

During the swimming season, daily water tests will reportedly be conducted, with green and red flags indicating which areas are open or closed.

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Outside of Paris, 14 swimming sites will be set up on the Seine and Marne rivers, with a couple already open.

Reuters contributed reporting to this article. 

Difference between DO and MD physicians amid Biden mental health probe

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As the probe into Joe Biden’s mental acuity continues, the former president’s personal physician, Kevin O’Connor, DO, made an appearance this week in Washington, D.C., in front of the House Oversight Committee.

O’Connor sat down for a closed-door interview on Wednesday with committee staff and panel chair James Comer, R-Ky. — but O’Connor invoked the Fifth Amendment to all questions, save for his name, as Fox News Digital previously reported.

In the wake of this, many people have been wondering: What’s the difference between a doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO) and a doctor of medicine (MD)?

EX-WHITE HOUSE PHYSICIAN SLAMS BIDEN DOCTOR FOR SILENCE DURING HOUSE GOP GRILLING

Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News’ senior medical analyst, confirmed that the capabilities of both a DO and an MD are the same, even when it comes to acknowledging mental decline or diagnosing and screening for prostate cancer.

“He’s a DO and he’s a family practitioner,” said Siegel. “With that training, he should know how to screen for prostate cancer.”

The House Oversight Committee questioned former President Joe Biden’s White House physician Kevin O’Connor, DO, shown here with Biden, during a hearing this week as part of a probe into Biden’s mental decline.  (Manuel Balce Ceneta/AP)

Training as a DO should not “take away” from medical training or medical education, said Siegel, who’s an internist — it only adds osteopathic methods such as manipulative treatment.

“I’m trained to be able to suss out cognitive decline,” said Siegel. “I’m not a specialist in that, but I can certainly screen for that. And so should a family practitioner who went to osteopathic school.”

He added, “He’s a guy who should say, ‘Hey, [Biden’s] got some cognitive decline. Let me get a neurologist in here.’”

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As a White House physician, O’Connor’s responsibility was to address the medical needs of the president. 

But DOs have more of a focus on the “mind, body, spirit connection,” according to Cleveland Clinic.

MDs and DOs have similar schooling, do the same jobs, can prescribe medicine and practice anywhere in the country. Still, DOs approach medicine more holistically, according to the same source.

doctor seated with patient

DOs and MDs receive the same kind of training and can administer the same modern medical treatments. But DOs may approach medicine more holistically. (iStock)

Cleveland Clinic defines osteopathic medicine as treating patients as a whole and improving wellness through education and prevention.

DOs also receive extra training in osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM), which is a hands-on method for treating and diagnosing patients.

This alternative training and approach don’t define a doctor’s practice, as DOs use “all types of modern medical treatments,” according to Cleveland Clinic — while MDs can also provide whole-person, preventive care.

WARDING OFF ALZHEIMER’S MIGHT MEAN MAKING THESE 11 LIFESTYLE CHANGES, EXPERT SAYS

DO training was first developed in 1892 by physician Andrew Taylor Still, MD, who changed his philosophy of medicine after the Civil War, the same source noted.

He believed traditional medicine to treat spinal meningitis, which killed three of his children, was ineffective — and developed the concept of osteopathic medicine.

man having his spine examined at doctor's office

“Osteopathic manipulative medicine, or osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), involves manipulating (touching or moving) your muscles, bones and joints,” Cleveland Clinic notes. (iStock)

In the U.S., as of 2023, there were 154 allopathic medical schools – using medication, surgery and other interventions to treat illnesses – and 38 otheopathic medicine schools, according to Cleveland Clinic.

A 2024 report from the American Osteopathic Association found that 57% of DOs practice family medicine, internal medicine and pediatrics — compared to 28% of MDs.

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The number of DOs in the U.S. has been on the rise in the last decade, according to the same report. 

Nearly 70% of DOs in active practice are under age 45 — and 45% are female.

Several U.S. presidents have been under the care of osteopathic physicians in recent years.

O’Connor was appointed by Biden in 2021, serving until March 2025 in the role of White House physician. 

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Dr. Sean Barbabella, DO, stepped into the role that same month. He is a decorated Navy physician who served in Afghanistan and Iraq. 

Before becoming physician to President Donald Trump, Barbabella ran the Naval Health Clinic Cherry Point in Havelock, North Carolina, according to multiple sources. 

Dr. Sean Conley, DO, served as a physician to Trump during his first term, from 2018 to 2021. 

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House GOP members, including Rep. Ronny Jackson, R-Texas, a former White House doctor himself, continue to investigate accusations that Biden’s former top White House aides covered up signs of his mental and physical decline while in office, and whether any executive actions were commissioned via autopen without the president’s full knowledge. 

Biden allies have been pushing back on those claims.

Fox News Digital’s Elizabeth Elkind contributed reporting. 

Denver scientists discover rare 67.5-million-year-old fossil bone while drilling beneath their own parking lot

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A dinosaur museum made a remarkable discovery in its own parking lot while analyzing geothermal heating potential.

The Denver Museum of Nature and Science in Colorado discovered a fossil bone more than 750 feet under the ground, The Associated Press (AP) reported. 

James Hagadorn, the museum’s curator of geology, said the find is “super rare,” according to AP.

ARCHAEOLOGIST UNEARTHS MYSTERIOUS CHRISTIAN SETTLEMENT HIDDEN AWAY FOR CENTURIES

“Finding a dinosaur bone in a core is like hitting a hole in one from the moon,” said Hagadorn. 

“It’s like winning the Willy Wonka factory. It’s incredible.”

The Denver Museum of Nature and Science accidentally discovered a rare dinosaur fossil 750 feet beneath its parking lot. (Richard M. Wicker/Denver Museum of Nature and Science via AP)

Using a bore five centimeters wide, museum officials discovered the fossil believed to be from a vertebra of a smallish, plant-eating dinosaur.

The dinosaur lived in the late Cretaceous period, around 67.5 million years ago, AP reported.

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Officials also discovered fossilized vegetation in the bore hole near the bone.

“I would love to dig a 763-foot hole in the parking lot to excavate that dinosaur, the rest of it. But I don’t think that’s going to fly because we really need parking,” Hagadorn said.

Colorado Parking Lot Dino

The dinosaur lived in the late Cretaceous period, around 67.5 million years ago, reported AP. (AP Photo/Thomas Peipert)

Patrick O’Connor, curator of vertebrate paleontology at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, told AP this may be Denver’s deepest and oldest find yet.

“This animal was living in what was probably a swampy environment that would have been heavily vegetated at the time,” said O’Connor.

Thomas Williamson, curator of paleontology at the New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science in Albuquerque, told AP he guesses the find is a surprise.

Colorado Parking Lot Dino

Using a bore five centimeters wide, museum officials discovered the fossil believed to be from a vertebra of a smallish, plant-eating dinosaur. (Richard M. Wicker/Denver Museum of Nature and Science via AP)

“Scientifically it’s not that exciting,” said Williamson.

The fossil is now on display to the public at the museum. 

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Only two similar finds have been noted in bore hole samples anywhere in the world, not to mention on the grounds of a dinosaur museum, according to museum officials, AP noted.

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In January, a “dinosaur highway” containing nearly 200 tracks was discovered in a limestone quarry in southern England.

The “highway” dates back 166 million years.

Google patches critical Chrome exploit as hackers actively target users

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Cyber threats are on the rise, and attackers are becoming more aggressive with each new breach. As a result, Google patched a critical vulnerability in its Chrome browser. 

This marks the fourth zero-day exploit discovered so far this year. Because hackers had already begun exploiting the flaw, Google quickly released an emergency update for Chrome users on Windows, Mac and Linux.

In light of this, as these threats grow more frequent and more sophisticated, taking control of your digital security is essential. With that in mind, here is what you need to know about the latest exploit and the steps you can take to stay protected.

MALWARE TARGETS MAC USERS WITH FAKE CAPTCHA AND AMOS STEALER

Macbook

A MacBook with Google Chrome on it. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What is the Google exploit all about

The high-severity security flaw, identified as CVE-2025-6554, stems from a type confusion bug in Chrome’s V8 JavaScript engine. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to run malicious code or access other parts of your system by manipulating memory. Fortunately, Google’s Threat Analysis Group (TAG), which tracks state-sponsored and targeted spyware attacks, discovered the flaw and quickly issued security updates to protect users.

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How to stop the exploit from exposing your computer

To stop hackers from exploiting the Chrome security flaw, start by updating your browser with the latest security patches. Although Chrome typically updates automatically, you should still check manually to make sure you are running the most recent version. To do this, follow these steps:

  • Open Chrome on your desktop
  • Click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner
  • Go to Help
  • Click About Google Chrome
chrome

Navigating Chrome (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Chrome will now check for updates and install any that it finds
Chrome settings

Chrome settings (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Once updated, click Relaunch to apply changes

The latest stable versions that address this exploit are 138.0.7204.96/.97 on Windows, 138.0.7204.92/.93 on Mac, and 138.0.7204.96 on Linux. 

Don’t forget to install or update your antivirus as well

Updating Chrome is only the first step in protecting your device. To strengthen your defenses, you also need to install reliable antivirus software. Zero-day vulnerabilities like this one can still allow malware to slip through, even after you patch your browser.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

On Windows devices, Microsoft Defender comes pre-installed and offers a solid layer of free protection. Similarly, Android devices rely on Google Play Protect for automatic malware detection and removal. However, keep in mind that Play Protect is not always enough. It has a history of missing certain threats and may not catch every strain of malware.

Mac users benefit from Apple’s built-in XProtect system, which Apple updated on July 8, 2025, to counter the latest known malware strains. Even so, adding a trusted third-party antivirus can provide stronger, more comprehensive protection.

When choosing antivirus software, make sure it includes these key features:

  • Detects malware that may bypass browser defenses
  • Offers real-time protection against new and emerging threats
  • Safeguards sensitive information like passwords and financial data

If you already have antivirus installed, take a moment to check for updates. Keeping it current ensures you’re protected against the latest security threats.

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

Kurt’s key takeaways

Hackers are already exploiting the latest Chrome flaw, and more vulnerabilities are almost certain to follow. Updating your browser is not just recommended, it serves as your first line of defense. However, protecting yourself requires more than just patching software. Installing a trusted antivirus and following smart browsing habits can make the difference between staying secure and becoming a target. Stay alert by avoiding suspicious links, never downloading files from unknown sources, and always verifying website URLs before entering personal information. In today’s digital world, one careless click can expose everything.

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What security measures have you taken to protect your devices from online threats? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.  
 



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Study reveals teens spend 21% of driving time on phones despite known risks

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Phones have become a constant companion for today’s teens, offering entertainment, connection and navigation at their fingertips. 

But when it comes to driving, this convenience can quickly turn dangerous. Recent research reveals an unsettling reality: Despite widespread awareness of the risks, teens and phone use while driving remains a persistent and deadly problem.

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REDUCE SCREEN TIME AND DITCH BIG TECH’S GRIP

Young woman looks at cell phone in car

Research shows that despite widespread awareness of the risks, teens and phone use while driving remains a persistent and deadly problem. (iStock/Getty Images)

How widespread is teen phone use while driving?

As of 2025, distracted driving remains a major safety concern in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, taking your eyes off the road for just five seconds at 55 mph is like driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed. In recent years, distracted driving has contributed to over 3,200 deaths and hundreds of thousands of crashes annually in the U.S., averaging nearly 900 incidents every day.

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A new study led by Dr. Rebecca Robbins at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, part of the Mass General Brigham system, and published in the journal Traffic Injury Prevention, found that teens spend an average of 21% of every car trip looking at their phones. That’s roughly one out of every five minutes behind the wheel. Even more alarming, more than a quarter of teens admitted to glancing at their phones for two seconds or longer at a time, long enough to dramatically increase the risk of a crash.

Why do teens and phone use while driving go hand in hand?

You might assume teens are just checking directions, but the data tells a different story:

  • 65% of phone use was for entertainment (music, videos, social media)
  • 40% was for texting
  • 30% was for navigation

This means that the urge to stay entertained or connected often outweighs safety concerns, even when teens are aware of the risks.

teen texting

A teen texting and driving. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What drives teens’ and phone use while driving behavior?

Researchers used the Integrated Model of Behavioral Prediction to investigate what motivates teenagers to use their phones while driving. They found that many teens believe using their phones makes driving more enjoyable or helps them multitask. Social influence also plays a significant role; when friends or family members use their phones while driving, teens are more likely to adopt the same behavior. Additionally, many teens feel confident in their ability to manage both driving and phone use, which leads them to underestimate the real dangers involved.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

Tips to reduce teen phone use while driving

Reducing teen phone use behind the wheel requires a combination of practical strategies, open communication and positive role modeling. Here are some effective tips to help keep young drivers focused and safe:

1. Set “Do Not Disturb”: Activate “Do Not Disturb” mode before driving to block notifications and reduce temptation.

2. Keep phones out of reach: Store your phone in the glove box or back seat so it’s not easily accessible.

3. Talk about risks: Parents and schools should regularly discuss the dangers of distracted driving with teens.

4. Model safe behavior: Adults should avoid using phones while driving to set a positive example.

5. Use monitoring apps: Consider apps that block phone use or track driving habits for added accountability.

6. Know the law: Understand and follow your state’s rules on phone use for young drivers.

texting and driving

A teen texting and driving.  (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Kurt’s key takeaways

The alarming truth is that teens and phone use while driving isn’t just about a lack of awareness; it’s about competing motivations, social pressures, and a dangerous sense of confidence. As technology evolves, so must our strategies for keeping young drivers safe.

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If you knew that just one glance at your phone could change your life or someone else’s forever, would you still take the risk?  Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.  



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Electrolyte drinks vs water: When you need hydration boosters in the heat

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Surviving the summer heat is all about hydration, hydration, hydration.

Water will usually do the trick – but some “hydration multipliers,” or electrolyte supplements, are gaining in popularity for boosting hydration in just one drink.

These drink mixes offer a blend of electrolytes such as sodium, potassium and magnesium to enhance water absorption.

THE HEAT HAS A SURPRISING EFFECT ON THE BRAIN – HERE’S WHAT DOCTORS WANT YOU TO KNOW

But are these boosters necessary for staying fully hydrated on hot days?

Brunilda Nazario, M.D., chief physician editor of medical affairs at WebMD, told Fox News Digital that staying hydrated is “essential” for health.

Hydration multipliers provide the body with electrolytes to help enhance water absorption. (iStock)

“Many people think about hydration as drinking water,” she said. 

“Yet it’s more than just about drinking water. Hydration is also about maintaining the balance of electrolytes like salt, potassium and magnesium.”

Nazario said hydration multipliers, or sports drinks, are “right in some circumstances.”

AMERICANS TOLD TO AVOID COFFEE DURING EXTREME HEAT WARNING IN 3 STATES

“Water may be the best replacement for most people that are active — but for some, hydration products are the best way to stay hydrated,” she said. 

“Stains or rings on your clothing while sweating may mean your sweat contains a lot of salt, an essential and critical electrolyte that needs to be replenished.”

orange powder being mixed in glass of water

Hydration multipliers often come in powder form to be mixed into water. (iStock)

For those who exercise “intensely” or sweat “profusely,” Nazario recommends trying a hydration multiplier or sports drink as a “better option” to prevent dehydration.

“That’s because re-hydration happens faster with products that have sodium,” she said. 

“Be mindful that these drinks can contain high amounts of salt.”

“While hydration products may be good during hot summer days, if you’re watching your salt intake, be mindful that these drinks can contain high amounts of salt.”

Dr. Glenn Hirsch, a cardiologist at National Jewish Health in Denver, Colorado, said in a separate interview with Fox News Digital that drinking adequate amounts of regular water is mostly “sufficient.”

Woman drinking water

“When a person is sweating a lot or if they are in a dry climate … they can lose a lot of fluids and electrolytes in hot conditions without realizing it.” (iStock)

But hydration-multiplying supplements can be helpful during exercise in hot conditions, especially if activity lasts for more than an hour.

“When a person is sweating a lot or if they are in a dry climate … they can lose a lot of fluids and electrolytes in hot conditions without realizing it,” the doctor said. “Replacing fluid and electrolytes is helpful.”

While electrolyte powders add more salt and potassium for hydration, too much salt and potassium can lead to complications in some people with conditions like high blood pressure or kidney disease.

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Some supplements also use synthetic sweeteners or sugar, said Hirsch, which is important for people with diabetes to know.

“In general, using these in moderation can work for most people when someone is doing a lot of sweating or working in a hot environment rather than just for daily hydration,” he said. “In that case, regular water is preferred.”

Exhausted construction worker

Those who intend to be outside for extended periods of time in hot weather should prepare by staying hydrated before, during and after, experts said. (iStock)

Nazario encouraged people to watch for signs of dehydration and not to wait until they’re thirsty to drink water, which is a sign you’re “already dehydrated.”

“Drink before, during, and after exercise or outdoor activities on a hot day,” she said. “For outdoor activities, drink seven to 10 ounces every 10 to 20 minutes.”

Hirsch recommended drinking water slowly before going out into hot climates, even as much as four hours before.

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“Drinking about one-half liter to a liter of water prior to activity can be helpful,” he said. “Having at least 500 ml to a liter of water every hour during activity in hot weather is important.”

“Having sports drinks or electrolyte powders to add to water can be helpful to avoid water intoxication from too much water without electrolyte replenishment, which can occur after an hour of exercise in hot conditions and with large amounts of water intake alone.”

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Hirsch added that having salty snacks can also be a helpful substitute along with regular water during prolonged activity.

Critical Windows 11 Secure Boot flaw lets hackers bypass protection

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Microsoft hasn’t received much love for Windows 11, with many users still reluctant to ditch Windows 10 even four years after the newer OS launched. The main reasons include Microsoft’s constant push to use its own services, strict hardware requirements and questionable interface changes.

But if you’re looking for yet another reason to dislike Windows 11, security researchers recently uncovered a critical vulnerability affecting Secure Boot. This feature is supposed to prevent malware from loading during startup. Now, hackers can bypass that protection and silently infect systems. The flaw allows attackers to disable Secure Boot on nearly any modern Windows PC or server, leaving even fully updated devices open to stealthy, undetectable malware.

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WINDOWS PCS AT RISK AS NEW TOOL DISARMS BUILT-IN SECURITY

PC

Windows PC   (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What is the Secure Boot vulnerability in Windows 11?

The vulnerability, tracked as CVE-2025-3052, was discovered by firmware security firm Binarly. They found that a legitimate BIOS update tool signed by Microsoft could be abused to tamper with the Windows boot process. Once exploited, the flaw allows attackers to shut off Secure Boot entirely. In the wrong hands, this vulnerability could lead to a new generation of malware. These threats could bypass even the most advanced antivirus or detection software.

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Hackers can abuse Microsoft-signed tools to shut down Secure Boot

At the center of the issue is a BIOS-flashing utility built for rugged tablets. Microsoft signed it using its UEFI CA 2011 certificate. Because that certificate is trusted on nearly every Secure Boot-enabled system, the tool can run without raising alarms. The danger lies in how the tool handles a specific NVRAM variable. Binarly’s researchers found that it reads this variable blindly, without checking what’s inside. That small oversight opens the door to a serious exploit. 

In a demonstration, Binarly used a proof-of-concept attack to change this variable’s value. By setting it to zero, they were able to overwrite a global setting critical to enforcing Secure Boot. That action completely disabled Secure Boot protections. Once that happens, unsigned UEFI modules can run freely. Attackers can then install stealthy, low-level malware known as bootkits, malware that operates below the Windows operating system itself. For hackers, this method offers the ultimate persistence.

laptop

Windows laptop   (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Microsoft released a fix-but you must act to stay protected

Binarly reported the flaw to CERT/CC in February 2025. At first, it appeared to affect only a single module. But Microsoft’s deeper investigation uncovered a bigger problem. The same vulnerability affected 14 modules signed with the same trusted certificate. Microsoft responded in June 2025 by revoking the cryptographic hashes of all 14 affected modules. These hashes were added to the Secure Boot revocation list, known as the dbx. This prevents the modules from running during startup. However, this protection is not automatic. Unless users or organizations manually apply the updated dbx, their systems remain vulnerable, even with other patches installed.

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How long has this Windows tool been circulating?

Binarly revealed that the vulnerable tool had been online since late 2022. Someone uploaded it to VirusTotal in 2024, but it went unnoticed for months. At this point, it’s unclear whether any attackers have used it in the wild. We reached out to Microsoft for comment but did not receive a response before our deadline.

hacker

Illustration of a hacker at work   (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Six essential tips to protect your Windows 11 PC from hackers

Protecting your PC doesn’t have to be complicated. Just follow these simple steps to keep hackers at bay and your information safe.

1. Keep your computer updated: Software updates aren’t just about new features. They fix serious security issues. In this case, Microsoft has already released a fix for the Secure Boot vulnerability, but it only works if your system is fully updated. Just head to your settings, open Windows Update, and make sure everything is installed. A lot of people delay updates for weeks, but these patches are the first line of defense against threats like this.

2. Don’t install tools you don’t fully understand: It might be tempting to download apps that claim to speed up your computer or fix problems, especially ones recommended in YouTube videos or tech forums. But that’s exactly how a lot of threats sneak in. This particular vulnerability came from a legitimate-looking tool that was misused. So, if you’re not sure what something does or if it asks for permission to change how your system boots up, skip it. Or ask someone who knows more, before you click anything.

3. Use strong antivirus software and leave it running: Even though this new threat targets something deep inside the system, having strong antivirus protection still helps catch related malware. If you’re on Windows, Defender is already built in and does a decent job. But if you don’t want to rely on Windows’ built-in tools, use a third-party antivirus.

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

4. Restart your computer every now and then: This one sounds basic, but it matters. A lot of updates don’t fully apply until after a restart. If you keep putting your computer to sleep or hibernating it for days at a time, your system might still be stuck in an unsafe state. Try to restart it at least every couple of days, or whenever an update asks for it.

5. Don’t ignore warnings from Windows or your antivirus: If something pops up telling you a file looks dangerous or that an update is needed, pay attention. It’s easy to get into the habit of closing these messages without reading them, but that’s how problems get missed. If a warning looks confusing or too technical, take a screenshot or a photo, and ask someone for help. The important thing is not to ignore it and move on.

6. Remove your personal data from people-search sites: Even if hackers don’t directly target you through the Secure Boot flaw, many cyberattacks begin by gathering personal information that’s easily found online. This can include your full name, address, phone number and even the names of your relatives. Data broker websites collect and publish this information without your consent, putting you at greater risk. Using a personal data removal service helps you reduce your online exposure and make it harder for bad actors to target you.

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

Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out whether your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com/Delete

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Secure Boot is supposed to be a final safeguard, a last barrier that ensures only verified code can load when a device starts. But this vulnerability shows how easily that trust can be broken. If a single signed utility can disable the entire system’s protection, then the foundation of device security starts to look worryingly thin.

Do you think Microsoft is doing enough to keep your PC secure? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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