Rare display of St. Francis relics planned for Assisi basilica pilgrims and tourists

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October 7, 2025

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The relics of St. Francis of Assisi, one of the most beloved saints in history, will be put on display in Italy next year.

Vatican News, the official outlet of the Vatican, reported the news on Oct. 4, St. Francis’ feast day.

The relics will be on display at the Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi from Feb. 22 to Mar. 22, 2026, during which time Francis’ body “will be moved from its tomb in the crypt and placed at the foot of the papal altar in the lower church of the basilica,” the outlet noted.

TREASURES IN ITALY, INCLUDING 2,300-YEAR-OLD TOMB, UNEARTHED DURING SEWER INSTALLATION

At the close of the veneration route, each visitor will receive a small gift from the Franciscan community.

Officials are expecting a large influx of pilgrims and tourists, who are required to sign up using a free online reservation system.

Pilgrims are expected to flock to Assisi in 2026 as St. Francis’ relics are displayed publicly. (Mike Kemp/In Pictures via Getty Images; DeAgostini/Getty Images)

Accessible routes are also being set up for visitors with disabilities.

The outlet reported that Pope Leo XIV approved the display. His predecessor, Pope Francis, took his papal name in honor of the 13th-century saint.

The Vatican announced the display on St. Francis’ feast day, drawing global attention from faithful pilgrims. (Andreas Solaro/AFP via Getty Images)

St. Francis lived from 1181 to 1226. He is famous for founding the Franciscan Order, a community dedicated to helping the poor and living a simple life.

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He was known as the patron saint of animals — and his tomb in Assisi became a major pilgrimage site during the Middle Ages.

His remains will soon draw an influx of pilgrims once again.

Assisi, long a center of pilgrimage, will again welcome visitors honoring the saint known for his humility. (Mike Kemp/In Pictures via Getty Images)

The Franciscan friary of the basilica, Sacro Convento, noted in a statement that the event comes nearly 800 years after his death.

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“[This is] an extraordinary gift, a profound invitation to prayer and an opportunity to see the Gospel of Christ lived out fully in the life of someone just like us,” the friary said.

Medieval depiction of Francis feeding animals

St. Francis’ tomb in Assisi has drawn pilgrims for centuries, many inspired by his compassion for animals. (Leemage/Corbis via Getty Images)

“This exposition, rooted in the Gospel theme of the seed that dies to bear fruit in love and fraternity, invites us to reflect on the life of the Saint, which continues to bear fruit 800 years later and still inspires humanity along the path of peace, fraternity, service to the poor, joy and care for creation.”

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Fox News Digital reached out to the Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi to learn which relics would be on display, but did not immediately hear back.

Fed-up Americans are fleeing pricey US hotels as junk fees send them on overseas trips

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October 7, 2025

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More Americans are packing their bags for international destinations these days rather than domestic trips in an attempt to guard their budgets amid high prices and hidden resort fees in the U.S.

In the “r/travel” forum on Reddit, one user asked, “Just me or is the U.S. now far and away the most expensive place to travel to?”

The person added, “Even though it costs more to fly internationally, I will almost always spend less in total than if I go to NYC or Miami or Vegas or Disney or any other domestic travel places.”

LUXURY ‘GOLDEN’ VISA PROGRAM TARGETS RICH AMERICANS AS ORDINARY FOLKS ARE LEFT BEHIND

Fellow Redditors weighed in, with many sharing that they think it’s cheaper to plan trips abroad.

“I’m in Thailand right now, and I’m literally saving money on vacation. I’m from Boston,” said one person.

Expensive travel costs plus rising hotel fees in the U.S. are driving many Americans to book international trips. (iStock)

Another user said, “We wanted to plan a trip to Colorado, and with hotel, flights and car rental, we ended up booking a trip abroad instead as it was close to the full cost of our domestic trip.”

Still another person on Reddit wrote that the “tipping culture in [the] U.S. makes it more expensive than it needs to be compared to Europe and Asia.”

VEGAS TIPPING DROPS DRASTICALLY AS VISITORS SAY SERVICE DOESN’T MATCH HIGHER COSTS

In the “r/travel” forum, another person wrote, “What is up with the recent trend of hotels charging extra to use the facilities?”

The question sparked a discussion about all the extra fees hotels are applying these days, for everything from parking to fitness center access to enhanced internet to bike rentals — even beach chair use.

“I’m in Thailand right now, and I’m literally saving money on vacation,” wrote a social media user. (iStock)

“I have been charged ‘resort fees’ (mostly in the States) in the past that I suppose are just as cheeky, but I am talking now about regular hotels that almost never advertise prior to the reservation that the facilities cost extra,” the post on Reddit said.

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Another user wrote, “This is the way of the world over time — itemizing each and every thing. We’ve already seen it with airlines, and it’s only going to get worse to the point [where] we’ll have to be neurotic about checking exactly what we’re getting line by line.”

Woman wearing jeans walking with suitcase at airport

A Travelmation supervisor said the company is “definitely seeing an uptick in hotel fees, but it’s more prevalent in the tourist hot spots.” (iStock)

Travelmation supervisor and advisor Mallory Dumond told Fox News Digital that the firm, based in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, is “definitely seeing an uptick in hotel fees, but it’s more prevalent in the tourist hot spots.”

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Added Dumond, “Major metropolitan areas will have fees, especially during peak times. New York City, for example, will have higher fees during the holidays due to elevated demand.”

She said there are ways for Americans to get around some of the fees by taking advantage of credit card perks or working with a trusted travel advisor.

“Major metropolitan areas will have fees, especially during peak times. New York City, for example, will have higher fees during the holidays due to elevated demand,” said a travel expert. (iStock)

Dummond also said that international travel has been attractive to a lot of her clients.

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“International hotels tend to have much more included in the standard room price, such as breakfast, transportation and use of their amenities,” she said. “Travelers can also consider a cruise for a more all-inclusive experience.”

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

Automotive giant Stellantis hit by major third-party data breach incident

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October 7, 2025

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Automotive giant Stellantis has just revealed that it suffered a data breach, exposing customer contact details, after attackers infiltrated a third-party platform used for North American customer services. The announcement comes at a time when large-scale attacks on cloud CRM systems have already shaken tech and retail sectors alike, with Salesforce clients such as Google, Allianz and Dior reporting similar intrusions. These earlier incidents exposed names, emails, and phone numbers, which were sufficient for attackers to launch phishing campaigns or extortion attempts.

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TRANSUNION BECOMES LATEST VICTIM IN MAJOR WAVE OF SALESFORCE-LINKED CYBERATTACKS, 4.4M AMERICANS AFFECTED

What you need to know about the Stellantis breach

Stellantis was formed in 2021 through the merger of the PSA Group and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. Today, it ranks among the world’s largest automakers by revenue and is fifth in volume globally. The company houses 14 well-known brands, including Jeep and Dodge, as well as Peugeot, Maserati and Vauxhall, and operates manufacturing infrastructure across more than 130 countries. That global scale naturally makes it a tempting target for cyber adversaries.

Stellantis confirmed hackers stole customer contact details in a recent breach. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

In its public statement, Stellantis clarified that only contact information was taken. Since the compromised third-party platform does not host financial or deeply sensitive personal data, Stellantis asserts that social security numbers, payment details and health records were out of reach of the attackers. In response, the company activated its incident response protocols, launched a full investigation, contained the breach, notified authorities and began alerting affected customers. It also issued warnings about phishing and urged customers not to click suspicious links.

Stellantis has not revealed how many customers the breach affected. The company also has not specified which contact fields, such as email, phone, or address, attackers accessed.

The alleged culprit, ShinyHunters, and Salesforce breaches

While Stellantis has not explicitly named the hacker group behind the breach, multiple sources tie this incident to the ShinyHunters extortion campaign, which has spearheaded a wave of data thefts targeting Salesforce this year.

ShinyHunters claims to have stolen over 18 million records from Stellantis’ Salesforce instance, which includes names and contact details, according to Bleeping Computer. These attacks form part of a broader campaign aimed at Salesforce customers. In recent months, ShinyHunters has often worked in concert with groups like Scattered Spider and targeted companies including Google, Cisco, Adidas, Allianz Life, Qantas, and brands under LVMH such as Dior and Tiffany & Co.

OVER 2B USERS FACE PHISHING RISKS AFTER GOOGLE DATA LEAK

The attack is linked to a wider wave of Salesforce data thefts this year. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Their reported method is fairly ingenious. Attackers exploit OAuth tokens tied to integrations like Salesloft’s Drift AI chat tool to pivot into Salesforce environments. Once inside, they can harvest valuable metadata, credentials, AWS keys, Snowflake tokens and more.

In fact, the FBI recently issued a Flash alert that surfaced numerous indicators of compromise linked to these Salesforce environment attacks and warned organizations to harden defenses. The cumulative toll is staggering. ShinyHunters asserts it has stolen over 1.5 billion Salesforce records across some 760 companies.

7 ways to protect yourself from breaches like Stellantis

Even if only contact details were exposed, that’s enough for attackers to target you. Here’s how to stay protected.

1) Clean up exposed personal data from the web

Even basic contact details can be scraped from breaches and sold on data broker platforms, where they are used for spam, scams and targeted attacks. A data removal service can help track down and request the deletion of your information from these databases, reducing your long-term exposure.

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

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

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

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon on sale at dealership

Stolen emails and phone numbers could fuel phishing campaigns. (REUTERS /Rebecca Cook)

2) Stay alert for phishing attempts and use antivirus software

The most immediate risk after a breach like this is targeted phishing. Attackers now have legitimate contact details, so their emails and texts can look convincingly real. Be skeptical of any message claiming to be from Stellantis, your car brand or a related service, especially if it urges you to click a link, download an attachment or share personal details.

The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links is to have 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.

3) Use a password manager to secure your accounts

If attackers get your contact information, they may try the same password on other sites. This is called credential stuffing. A password manager can create strong, unique passwords for every account. That way, one breach will not put your other accounts at risk. It also helps you quickly update credentials in case you suspect a compromise.

Next, see if your email has been exposed in past breaches. Our No. 1 password manager pick includes a built-in breach scanner that checks whether your email address or passwords have appeared in known leaks. If you discover a match, immediately change any reused passwords and secure those accounts with new, unique credentials.

Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 at CyberGuy.com.

DIOR DATA BREACH EXPOSES US CUSTOMERS’ PERSONAL INFORMATION

4) Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible

2FA adds an extra step to your logins by requiring a temporary code or approval in addition to your password. Even if attackers manage to steal your password, they will need that second factor to gain access. This significantly reduces the chances of account takeover attempts succeeding.

5) Invest in identity theft protection

Attackers often combine exposed contact information with other data to build complete identity profiles. Identity theft protection services monitor for suspicious activity, such as unauthorized credit applications or changes to official records, and alert you early so you can act before serious damage occurs. Identity theft companies can monitor personal information like your Social Security Number (SSN), phone number, and email address, and alert you if it is being sold on the dark web or being used to open an account. They can also assist you in freezing your bank and credit card accounts to prevent further unauthorized use by criminals.

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

6) Regularly review account activity

After a breach, it is worth auditing your accounts, not just with Stellantis but also with related services such as financing portals, insurance accounts or loyalty programs. Look for unusual sign-ins, unfamiliar devices, or changes to your personal details. Most services offer tools to review login history and security events, making checking these a routine habit.

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Kurt’s key takeaway

Even giants in manufacturing are vulnerable when cloud platforms and third-party systems are part of their customer workflow. The same patterns seen in attacks on Google, LVMH, and others have now reached the auto industry in a serious way. As Stellantis confronts the fallout, the broader lesson is clear. Organizations must treat the surfaces exposed by their service providers and SaaS integrations with as much vigilance as their own core systems.

Do you trust companies to secure your data, or do you feel they’re not doing enough? Let us know by writing to us at CyberGuy.com.

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Love Lost AI helps reunite Washington woman with lost Maine Coon cat

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October 7, 2025

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Imagine the heartbreak of a missing pet. For Sharon, a senior living in Ridgefield, Washington, that fear became reality when her beloved Louie, an indoor-only cat who had never ventured outside, slipped out of a window. For 11 long days, she searched everywhere. But thanks to a free tool called Love Lost and the kindness of a good neighbor, Louie is back home safe and sound.

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Sharon and Louie’s happy reunion

Louie, a bright orange Maine Coon who had just turned two years old, was adopted by Sharon and quickly became part of her family. When Louie disappeared, Sharon and her family knocked on doors and checked with their local shelter, the Humane Society for Southwest Washington. Staff there suggested she upload Louie’s photo to Love Lost and create a free profile.

Sharon’s beloved cat, Louie, slipped out of a window and went missing for 11 days. (Petco Love)

Eleven days later, Sharon received a message through the Love Lost chat from a neighbor who spotted a cat perched on a roof near a vet’s office. The good Samaritan went straight to Love Lost, saw Sharon’s post and reached out using the built-in chat feature. This tool lets pet parents and finders connect directly without sharing personal contact information. Together, they tracked Louie down in a storage lot behind the building. After 11 stressful days, Louie was finally back in Sharon’s arms.

DANA PERINO: OUR DOGS REMIND US OF LIFE’S SWEETEST TRUTH

“We were just thrilled. When I posted on Love Lost, it was easy to use. If it had not been simple, I probably would not have finished it,” Sharon said. “Thank you, thank you, Love Lost, for bringing Louie home.”

Love Lost, powered by Petco Love, is a national database driven by artificial intelligence that matches lost and found pet photos. Sharon joked that if she could figure it out, anyone could.

The emotional reunion shows how simple tech and community can bring pets home. (Petco Love)

What makes Love Lost powerful

Love Lost works by using AI photo-matching. When you upload a picture of your pet, the system compares it to images from nearly every major shelter across the U.S., plus photos posted on platforms like Nextdoor and Ring’s Neighbors app. The platform also includes a secure chat feature, which was used in this case, allowing finders and pet parents to connect without sharing personal phone numbers or emails, making communication safe and simple.

This fall, Love Lost is rolling out a new feature called Search Party. It lets pet parents quickly rally their community by printing flyers, sharing posts on social media and coordinating search areas. This structure helps reduce stress when every second counts.

A good neighbor used the Love Lost chat feature to help Sharon track Louie down. (Petco Love)

Alternatives to consider: pet trackers

While Love Lost is an excellent safety net, pet parents may also want to consider pet trackers. These small GPS devices attach to your dog or cat’s collar and let you follow their location in real time on your phone.

CyberGuy has reviewed some of the best pet trackers for peace of mind, whether you’re dealing with an adventurous cat or a dog who slips out of the yard. Using both a tracker and Love Lost gives you double protection if your pet ever goes missing.

Check out our list of the best pet trackers at CyberGuy.com.

WOULD YOU DATE YOUR PET? 1 IN 3 SAY YES TO AI VERSION

What this means for you

If you own a pet, now is the time to prepare. Uploading a photo of your furry friend to Love Lost takes just a minute, and it could save days of panic later. You’ll be ready to report them as lost with one click, and the system will instantly scan for matches. Pairing Love Lost with a pet tracker ensures you’re covered on both fronts: community-powered recovery and real-time location tracking.

Additionally, be sure to check out our comprehensive pet guide to keep your pets happy, healthy and entertained with these innovative solutions at CyberGuy.com/.

An orange cat sits on a kitchen counter.

The bright orange Maine Coon had just turned 2 years old when he disappeared. (Petco Love)

Take my quiz: How safe is your online security?

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

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Sharon’s reunion with Louie is a reminder of the bond we share with our pets and how technology and neighbors can help keep that bond unbroken. By taking a few minutes now, you can set yourself up for success if the unthinkable were to happen.

If your pet slipped out tonight, would you have a plan in place to bring them back home quickly? Let us know by writing to us at CyberGuy.com.

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

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Tourists shopped above secret ‘vile’ dungeon uncovered in ‘remarkable’ archaeological dig

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October 7, 2025

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Archaeologists in the United Kingdom recently unearthed ancient relics beneath a bustling marketplace — including the remains of a “vile” dungeon.

Announcing the discovery in a Sept. 23 press release, officials at the University of Leicester said the dig yielded “extraordinary evidence of 2,000 years of human activity” in Leicester’s marketplace.

Archaeologists uncovered the finds while working alongside construction crews who are redeveloping the market square.

ARCHAEOLOGIST SOLVES ‘JIGSAW PUZZLE’ OF ANCIENT ROMAN FRAGMENTS HIDDEN FOR NEARLY TWO MILLENNIA

“Among the most poignant finds is the grave of a Roman infant, buried beneath a floor of a timber building dating back nearly 1,800 years,” the university’s statement said.

“Nearby, the team uncovered rarely found Roman pottery kilns, offering new insights into domestic life and industry in Roman Leicester.”

Archaeologists in Leicester unearthed relics just beneath a market square, revealing Roman burials and a “vile” dungeon. (Speller Metcalfe / University of Leicester)

Excavation leader Gavin Speed said his team found pottery, coins, jewelry and small mosaic cubes amid the Roman sediment, as well as some traces of Anglo-Saxon settlers.

But the most eyebrow-raising discovery was the remains of a 16th-century dungeon. It was once described in historical records as “a most vile prison.”

“We can see multiple market surfaces, each representing a different generation and some 800 years of market activity.”

“The dungeon is believed to have been part of the Gainsborough Chamber — a building first mentioned in records in 1533,” officials said.

METAL DETECTORIST’S ‘FEELING’ LEADS TO MASSIVE ROMAN SETTLEMENT DISCOVERY IN POPULAR TOURIST HOTSPOT

“A high-status civic building, the chamber served as a venue for judicial proceedings, mayoral business, feasting and celebrations, until its demolition in around 1748.”

Speed said the redevelopment of the market square provides “a rare opportunity to investigate what lies beneath this important site.”

Archaeologists compared the excavation to slicing through an “archaeological cake,” with layers from multiple generations. (University of Leicester)

“Leicester is one of the most archaeologically explored cities in the country, yet this particular area has remained relatively untouched — until now,” said Speed.

“We anticipated finding evidence of Roman occupation, as the marketplace sits in what would have been the southeast corner of Roman Leicester, but the discoveries have surpassed our expectations.”

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Speed compared the entire excavation to “looking at a slice through an archaeological cake.”

He said, “We can see multiple market surfaces, each representing a different generation and some 800 years of market activity. We have even identified traces of former medieval market stalls, preserved as post-holes.”

“I hope we’ll be able to put some of the archaeologists’ remarkable finds on display for the public to enjoy too.”

Peter Soulsby, mayor of Leicester, emphasized the importance of “learn[ing] as much as we can” about the city’s past.

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“We’re very fortunate to have the expertise of ULAS in the city,” he said. “The work of their archaeologists is showing how this key site has been in use for thousands of years, with everyone from the Romans to the Victorians leaving traces of their existence behind them.”

Archaeologist writing on pad at excavation site

University of Leicester archaeologists are continuing their excavation work alongside ongoing construction redevelopment. (University of Leicester)

He added, “ULAS will continue to work alongside our contractors to extract as much information from the site as they can, and I hope we’ll be able to put some of the archaeologists’ remarkable finds on display for the public to enjoy too.”

Leicester is about 91 miles south of York, where archaeologists recently discovered the remains of a medieval hospital in a similar excavation.

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In June, a sinkhole in York yielded remnants of St. Leonard’s Hospital, built between the 12th and 13th centuries.

The ‘Schumer shutdown’ gives Trump an opportunity to reshape the government

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October 7, 2025

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President Donald Trump is threatening significant layoffs of federal workers unless talks aimed at ending the “Schumer shutdown” show some progress. They’re not even close; as Senator John Kennedy posted on X: “You’d need an Excel spreadsheet to keep track of all the Senate Democrats’ demands for re-opening the government.”

What is the White House waiting for?

After all, Team Trump has been encouraging the downsizing of federal agencies since it took office. Just eight days after the president was inaugurated, the Office of Personnel Management sent an email inviting almost the entire federal workforce to resign. As of today, some 150,000 federal employees have taken advantage of the offer; most will be leaving their positions in coming weeks.

TRUMP SAYS GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN LAYOFFS ARE ‘UP TO’ DEMS AS STANDOFF CONTINUES

Democrats are horrified — at the threat of layoffs and at any attempt to shrink the government’s workforce. For them, every federal job is sacred, even as our debt spirals out of control.

This country was spending at an annualized rate of less than $5 trillion per year when COVID hit; that jumped almost overnight to more than $7 trillion, and we have never looked back. Everyone seems to agree that current spending levels are “unsustainable”, coming in at levels historically only seen during wars or national emergencies, but then our elected officials plow right ahead sustaining them.

Asked why the White House might take advantage of this opportunity to cut overhead, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt answered, “Because we have an administration and we have a president who are wholeheartedly focused on restoring fiscal sanity to our government and doing the right thing by the American taxpayer.”

Spending is popular and politically appealing; retrenchment is not. To its credit, the Trump administration has boldly attempted to cut waste and fraud, estimated by former President Joe Biden’s own General Accountability Office (GAO) to total $233 billion to $521 billion each year.

The public isn’t fooled. A survey done by the CATO Institute in April showed the public believes that the government “wastes 59¢ of every $1 it spends.” That’s quite an indictment and probably explains why 89 percent of respondents were in favor of auditing all government spending, in order to root out waste and fraud. Moreover, CATO found that “Americans Would Cut 40 Percent Across the Board.”

Alas, it’s not so easy, as Elon Musk found out. He took on reforming the government through the Department of Government Efficiency, which met with near-hysterical resistance from Democrats. Critics deride DOGE’s efforts, noting that federal spending continues to rise. That is true, but much of the increase in spending — like rising interest rates or Social Security — is beyond the reach of DOGE.

The good news is that DOGE is still at it, working quietly behind the scenes to eliminate wasteful programs. Just recently, the group announced that “agencies terminated and descoped 94 wasteful contracts with a ceiling value of $8.5B and savings of $546M, including a $533k Dept. of Commerce consulting contract for ‘editing support services to the Fisheries Resource Division…’” In another post, DOGE cites the termination of 55 wasteful contracts…[costing hundreds of millions of dollars] including a $163k HHS education & training contract to “provide information on the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People…”

The liberal media tries to discredit DOGE’s work, but Musk’s previous team credibly argues their successes, calling one NPR article “careless at best, or malicious.” No one is surprised.

Politicians tend to protect their pork. The GAO, while estimating that much of the taxpayer’s dime was flushed down the federal toilet, concluded that, “Given the scope of the problem, a government-wide approach is required to address it.” Shockingly, no one in the Biden White House lifted a finger.

Today, the Trump White House has a chance to eliminate more government jobs. They should grab it; it may not come again. In that CATO survey, more than half thought the government employed too many people; 62% would support trimming the federal workforce. That looks like a mandate.

They could start with some of the 441 federal agencies listed in the Federal Register, many of which the public has never even heard of, like the Administrative Conference of the United States, or the Joint Board for the Enrollment of Actuaries.

Or how about the Chief Acquisition Officers Council, not to be confused with the Procurement Executive Council or the Federal Acquisition Council, a name change (that probably cost millions) “to provide greater flexibility and a more inclusive reach beyond procurement.”

Maybe the White House should shutter the Citizen’s Stamp Advisory Committee, which, according to the Federal register, “evaluates all stamp proposals.” Or maybe review The Denali Commission, which provides “critical utilities, infrastructure and economic support throughout Alaska.”

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Who would want to get rid of the Federal Committee on Statistical Methodology, founded “in 1975 by the Statistical and Science Policy Branch … to assist in carrying out SSP/OMB’s role in setting and coordinating statistical policy.” What exactly is statistical policy?

Many of our government’s activities are well-meaning, but perhaps not essential, like the Japan-United States Friendship Commission, which “gives grants to stimulate engagement in business, educational, or cultural exchanges with Japan.” Aren’t we friendly with Japan already?

Similarly, the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, which “conducts and promotes objective research to inform public policy and debate” is perhaps unnecessary. We have hundreds of privately-financed think tanks and universities doing “objective” research.

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Over time, the federal government has morphed into a gigantic stew of special interest bureaus and agencies promoted by politicians who needed or wanted a favor — often a favor for their home state, in return for a crucial vote. That’s politics, but when there is never a culling of such activities, the stew becomes rancid, turning into an ungovernable mass. That’s where we are now.

The shutdown has sent even about one third of White House staffers home. The good news is that DOGE employees remain on the job. They have work to do.

Liz Peek is a Fox News contributor and former partner of major bracket Wall Street firm Wertheim & Company. A former columnist for the Fiscal Times, she writes for The Hill and contributes frequently to Fox News, the New York Sun and other publications. For more visit LizPeek.com. Follow her on Twitter @LizPeek.

Researcher solves mystery behind Shackleton’s Endurance ship sinking

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October 7, 2025

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A researcher believes he’s cracked the mystery behind the sinking of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s legendary ship Endurance.

Part of one of the most famous Antarctic expeditions in history, Endurance set sail from England to the White Continent in August 1914. On Jan. 18, 1915, the ship became frozen in place about 76 miles from the coast of Antarctica.

Locked in sea ice for the next ten months, Endurance drifted slowly across the Weddell Sea until it sank on Nov. 21, 1915.

The ship is so famous because its sinking was disastrous, but not tragic – Shackleton guided all 27 crew members to safety and was able to slowly remove cargo, supplies and boats before the vessel sank.

DIVERS REVEAL IMAGES OF 321-YEAR-OLD SHIPWRECK IN REMARKABLE CONDITION OFF COAST

Researchers say new evidence shows Sir Ernest Shackleton’s Endurance sank from engineering flaws, not just crushing Antarctic ice pressure. (Bettmann via Getty Images; George Rinhart/Corbis via Getty Images)

In an Oct. 6 article in the journal Polar Record, Aalto University professor Jukka Tuhkuri argues that the culprit of the sinking lay not in the pressure of the ice, but in the ship’s structural weaknesses.

At the time, Endurance was regarded as nearly indestructible, but Tuhkuri’s research suggests its reputation was unwarranted.

The Finnish researcher argues the ship’s loss stemmed from deeper engineering flaws, not just damage to its rudder. The vessel was built for Arctic, but not quite Antarctic, conditions.

EERIE IMAGES SHOW CENTURY-OLD WRECK OF TITANIC’S SISTER SHIP AS DIVERS RECOVER ARTIFACTS FOR FIRST TIME

“While the final reason was tearing off the keel, Endurance sank because the vessel was simply crushed in compression by ice,” wrote Tuhkuri.

View of polar ice surrounding Endurance ship

“Endurance was not designed for compressive conditions in the Antarctic pack ice, but for easier conditions at the ice edge in the Arctic,” said Tuhkuri. (Frank Hurley/Scott Polar Research Institute, University of Cambridge/Getty Images)

“This is not surprising, Endurance was not designed for compressive conditions in the Antarctic pack ice, but for easier conditions at the ice edge in the Arctic.”

The polar engineering expert consulted letters from Shackleton and expedition diaries during his research, as well as conducting a structural analysis of the ship itself.

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Its engine room lacked cross-beams to distribute compressive forces, and the hull had limited diagonal bracing, which left it vulnerable to side-to-side crushing by ice.

Shackleton’s crew survived months stranded on ice after Endurance sank, a feat of leadership and endurance itself. (Underwood Archives/Getty Images)

“The weakest part of its hull was the engine room area, which was not only larger than in other early Antarctic ships but also lacked beams to give strength against compression by ice,” the article details.

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“Comparison with other wooden polar ships is not favourable for Endurance: ships designed for compressive pack ice were stronger. It is also evident from archive research that Shackleton was well aware of the weaknesses of Endurance even before his expedition set sail for Antarctica.”

The research comes over three years after the remains of Endurance were found roughly 9,840 feet below the surface of the Weddell Sea in 2022.

Endurance leaning over while trapped in ice

Endurance drifted helplessly for ten months before the crushing force of ice tore through its hull. (Frank Hurley/Scott Polar Research Institute, University of Cambridge/Getty Images)

Mensun Bound, director of exploration for the Endurance22 expedition, called the vessel “by far the finest wooden shipwreck I have ever seen.”

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“It is upright, well proud of the seabed, intact, and in a brilliant state of preservation,” Bound reported. “You can even see ‘Endurance’ arced across the stern, directly below the taffrail.”

Julia Musto contributed reporting.

Portugal’s new ‘golden’ visa program sees 571% surge in US traffic interest

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October 6, 2025

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With the increasing interest in “golden” visa programs, Portugal has now become the latest country to hop on the trend by exclusively targeting Americans.

The LXL Ventures Fund offers a five-year residence-by-investment program for non-EU nationals.

The special visa allows people to live, work and study in Portugal along with enjoying visa-free travel across the Schengen Area.

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

Visas only require an average of seven days per year spent in Portugal, per the program.

The specialized private equity fund offers “secure and familiar assets matching U.S. investor preference,” and “structure for NHR [Non-Habitual Resident tax] 2.0 compliance,” according to the fund’s website.

Portugal has launched a new “golden” visa program that is aimed at wealthy Americans through the LXL Ventures Fund. (iStock)

Lisbon-based Vida Capital has seen a 571% increase in traffic from the U.S. in the first half of 2025 compared to the first half of 2024, Forbes reported.

Portugal’s new program requires prospective visa holders to put about $500,000 into qualifying investment, venture capital funds and scientific or technological research.

About $250,000 of that can be invested in cultural heritage preservation, or in creating at least 10 full-time jobs in Portugal, according to the country’s site.

Lisbon, Portugal skyline at Alfama, the oldest district of the city.

The new “golden” visa allows people to live, work and study in Portugal along with enjoying visa-free travel across the Schengen Area. (iStock)

Mo Bennis, an associate vice president at Arton Capital, a global financial advisory and consultancy firm, previously told Fox News Digital that Americans are realizing these special visas are “the ultimate insurance policy against uncertainty.”

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“[Golden visas] can open doors to privileges that money just can’t buy: freedom of movement, security for your family and access to opportunities around the world,” he said.

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Critics of “golden” visas argue these programs favor the affluent over ordinary people and can push up the prices of local housing.

Older couple at the Belém Tower in Lisbon, Portugal.

“The countries with the most smooth and streamlined processes are often the most popular,” said one expert. (iStock)

“Portugal offers access to world-class healthcare and education within the EU, often at lower costs than in the U.S.,” Bennis said.

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He added, “The countries with the most smooth and streamlined processes are often the most popular.”

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

Million-dollar coins, ‘rare and extraordinary,’ are discovered in Florida shipwreck excavation

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October 6, 2025

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Long-lost Spanish coins worth $1 million were discovered recently during an underwater excavation of a shipwreck, according to The Associated Press.

The shipwreck salvage company 1715 Fleet – Queens Jewels LLC deployed excavators near Sebastian, Florida, on the Sunshine State’s so-called “Treasure Coast.”

A convoy of Spanish ships was carrying a variety of jewels taken from the New World and was sailing back to Spain.

DIVERS DISCOVER VINTAGE CAR IN WWII SHIPWRECK

On July 21, 1715, a hurricane struck — wrecking the ships and releasing their treasures into the sea, according to AP.

It’s believed that the coins of gold and silver were minted hundreds of years ago in Bolivia, Mexico and Peru, the same source noted.

Gold and silver coins worth some $1 million were found in Florida waters from Spanish ships that sank. (1715 Fleet – Queens Jewels, LLC via AP)

“The condition of the coins suggests they were part of a single chest or shipment that spilled when the ships broke apart in the hurricane’s fury,” the company said in a statement.

The salvage company’s director of operations, Sal Guttuso, said the discovery “is not only about the treasure itself, but the stories it tells.”

The “recovery is both rare and extraordinary.”

Guttuso added, “Each coin is a piece of history, a tangible link to the people who lived, worked and sailed during the Golden Age of the Spanish Empire.”

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He said that “finding 1,000 of them in a single recovery is both rare and extraordinary.”

The Treasure Coast is a stretch of land in the southeast region of Florida consisting of St. Lucie, Martin and Indian River counties.

florida diver gold coin shipwreck recovery

The shipwreck salvage company 1715 Fleet – Queens Jewels LLC deployed excavators near Sebastian, Florida, on the Sunshine State’s “Treasure Coast.” (1715 Fleet – Queens Jewels, LLC via AP)

The area was given the name after shipwrecks full of treasure, beginning in the 1600s, occurred due to the reefs and isolated location, according to multiple sources.

The coins will undergo conservation before they’re put on public display.

Florida’s Rule 1A-31.090 states that when artifacts are recovered under a state permit, the Division of Historical Resources keeps up to 20% of the recovered artifacts for research or public viewing.

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The remaining 80% may be shared with the salvagers.

“Every find helps piece together the human story of the 1715 fleet,” said Guttuso.

The Treasure Coast is a stretch of land in southeast Florida consisting of St. Lucie, Martin and Indian River counties. (Jeffrey Greenberg/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

He added, “We are committed to preserving and studying these artifacts, so future generations can appreciate their historical significance.”

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The Associated Press and Fox Weather’s Hayley Vawter contributed reporting.

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

Meta’s leaked AI documents expose internal child safety training rules

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October 6, 2025

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An internal Meta document sheds light on how the company is training its AI chatbot to handle one of the most sensitive issues online: child sexual exploitation. The newly unearthed guidelines detail what’s permitted and what’s strictly forbidden, offering a rare look into how Meta is shaping its AI behavior amid government scrutiny.

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META STRENGTHENS TEEN SAFETY WITH EXPANDED ACCOUNTS

Meta’s leaked AI guidelines show how contractors train chatbots to reject harmful requests. (Meta)

Why Meta’s AI chatbot guidelines matter

According to Business Insider, these rules are now in use by contractors testing Meta’s chatbot. They arrive just as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is investigating AI chatbot makers, including Meta, OpenAI, and Google, to understand how these companies design their systems and protect children from potential harm.

Earlier this year, we reported that Meta’s previous rules mistakenly allowed chatbots to engage in romantic conversations with children. Meta later removed that language, calling it an error. The updated guidelines mark a clear shift, now requiring chatbots to refuse any request for sexual roleplay involving minors.

CHATGPT MAY ALERT POLICE ON SUICIDAL TEENS

Smartphone screen with a circular listening indicator and

The rules forbid any sexual roleplay with minors, but still allow educational discussion of exploitation. (Meta)

What the leaked Meta AI documents reveal

The documents reportedly outline a strict separation between educational discussion and harmful roleplay. For example, chatbots may:

Discuss child exploitation in an academic or preventive context
Explain how grooming behaviors work in general terms
Provide non-sexual advice to minors about social challenges

But chatbots must not:

Describe or endorse sexual relationships between children and adults
Provide instructions for accessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM)
Engage in roleplay that portrays a character under 18
Sexualize children under 13 in any way

Meta’s communications chief Andy Stone told Business Insider that these rules reflect the company’s policy to prohibit sexualized or romantic roleplay involving minors, while adding that additional guardrails are also in place. We reached out to Meta for a comment to include in our article, but did not hear back before our deadline.

META AI DOCS EXPOSED, ALLOWING CHATBOTS TO FLIRT WITH KIDS

Phone displaying a furry creature under an umbrella with a share sheet overlay showing contacts and apps.

New AI products revealed at Meta Connect 2025 make these safety standards even more important. (Meta)

Political pressure on Meta’s AI chatbot rules

The timing of these disclosures is key. In August, Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., demanded that Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg hand over a 200-page rule book on chatbot behavior, along with internal enforcement manuals. Meta missed the first deadline but recently began providing documents, citing a technical issue. This comes as regulators worldwide debate how to ensure the safety of AI systems, particularly as they become integrated into everyday communication tools.

At the same time, the recent Meta Connect 2025 event showcased the company’s newest AI products, including Ray-Ban smart glasses with built-in displays and enhanced chatbot features. These announcements underscore how deeply Meta is integrating AI into daily life, making the recently revealed safety standards even more significant.

META ADDS TEEN SAFETY FEATURES TO INSTAGRAM, FACEBOOK

How parents can protect their kids from AI risks

While Meta’s new rules may set stricter limits, parents still play a key role in keeping kids safe online. Here are steps you can take right now:

Talk openly about chatbots: Explain that AI tools are not people and may not always give safe advice.
Set usage boundaries: Require kids to use AI tools in shared spaces so you can monitor conversations.
Review privacy settings: Check app and device controls to limit who your child can chat with.
Encourage reporting: Teach kids to tell you if a chatbot says something confusing, scary, or inappropriate.
Stay updated: Follow developments from companies like Meta and regulators like the FTC so you know what rules are changing.

What this means for you

If you use AI chatbots, this story is a reminder that big tech companies are still figuring out how to set boundaries. While Meta’s updated rules may prevent the most harmful misuse, the documents show how easily gaps can appear and how much pressure it takes from regulators and journalists to close them.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Meta’s AI guidelines show both progress and vulnerability. On the one hand, the company has tightened restrictions to protect children. On the other hand, the fact that earlier errors allowed questionable content at all reveals how fragile these safeguards can be. Transparency from companies and oversight from regulators will likely continue shaping how AI evolves.

Do you think companies like Meta are doing enough to keep AI safe for children, or should governments set stricter rules? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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

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