Alabama woman who is only person in the world with a functioning pig organ reaches record 2-month milestone

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January 26, 2025

An Alabama woman who is the only living recipient of a pig organ transplant passed a major milestone on Saturday when she became the longest living person with a functioning pig organ.

Towana Looney, 53, remains healthy and full of energy, reaching the record 61-day mark with her pig kidney on Saturday.

“I’m superwoman,” Looney told The Associated Press. “It’s a new take on life.”

Only four other Americans have received experimental transplants of gene-edited pig organs — two receiving a heart while the other two received a kidney — but none of them lived more than two months.

WOMAN RECEIVES PIG KIDNEY TRANSPLANT, WALKS OUT OF HOSPITAL DAYS LATER: ‘SECOND CHANCE’

Towana Looney, who received a pig kidney transplant in November 2024, goes over notes about her recovery with Dr. Jeffrey Stern at NYU Langone Health in New York, Friday, Jan. 24, 2025. (AP)

“If you saw her on the street, you would have no idea that she’s the only person in the world walking around with a pig organ inside them that’s functioning,” Dr. Robert Montgomery of NYU Langone Health, who led Looney’s transplant, said.

Montgomery said Looney’s kidney function is “absolutely normal.” She has been staying in New York temporarily so she can receive post-transplant checkups, but doctors hope she can return to her home in Gadsden, Alabama, in about a month.

“We’re quite optimistic that this is going to continue to work and work well for, you know, a significant period of time,” Montgomery said.

Scientists are genetically altering pigs, so their organs are more human-like to support a severe shortage of human organs that can be used for transplants.

More than 100,000 people are on the U.S. transplant list. Most of these individuals need a kidney, and thousands die waiting.

The Food and Drug Administration only allows pig organ transplants in special circumstances for people who have run out of other alternatives.

Dr. Tatsuo Kawai of Massachusetts General Hospital, who led the world’s first pig kidney transplant last year and works with another pig developer, eGenesis, said how well Looney does is a “very precious experience.”

Towana Looney sits for a NYU Langone Health press conference on Tuesday, December 17, 2024.

Towana Looney sits for an NYU Langone Health press conference on Tuesday, December 17, 2024. (Fox News)

Looney was far healthier than previous pig organ recipients, according to Kawai, who said her progress will help inform doctors about future attempts.

“We have to learn from each other,” he said.

Looney donated a kidney to her mother in 1999 and later pregnancy complications caused high blood pressure that damaged her remaining kidney, which eventually failed, a rare circumstance among living donors.

She spent eight years on dialysis before doctors determined she was unlikely to receive a donated organ, as she had developed very high levels of antibodies abnormally primed to attack another human kidney.

Looney, seeking an alternative, wanted to try out the pig organ experiment. Nobody knew how it would work in someone “highly sensitized” with the overactive antibodies.

Montgomery’s team has closely tracked Looney’s recovery through blood tests and other measurements since the Nov. 25 surgery. About three weeks after the transplant, subtle signs were detected that rejection was beginning. They knew to look for these signs because of a 2023 experiment when a pig kidney worked for 61 days inside a deceased man whose body was donated for research.

MASSACHUSETTS MAN, RECIPIENT OF FIRST SUCCESSFUL PIG KIDNEY TRANSPLANT, IS DISCHARGED FROM HOSPITAL

Outside the NYU Langone Health emergency room entrance on April 6, 2020, in New York City. (Noam Galai/Getty Images)

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Montgomery said his team successfully treated Looney and there have not been signs of rejection since.

It is impossible to predict how long Looney’s new kidney will work. But if it were to fail, she could receive dialysis again.

“The truth is we don’t really know what the next hurdles are because this is the first time we’ve gotten this far,” Montgomery said. “We’ll have to continue to really keep a close eye on her.”

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

As airlines button-up dress codes, these clothes will get you kicked off a flight

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January 25, 2025

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Air travel has certainly changed over time, and what once was an occasion that mandated dressing smartly has become considerably more casual.

Recently, Spirit Airlines issued a new dress code for its customers, after several news-making instances regarding customers being removed from flights due to their attire.

Now, customers on Spirit Airlines are subject to be removed from its flights if they are “barefoot or inadequately clothed (i.e., see-through clothing; not adequately covered; exposed breasts, buttocks, or other private parts), or whose clothing or article, including body art, is lewd, obscene, or offensive in nature.”

EVERYDAY BEHAVIORS BY FLIGHT PASSENGERS THAT ARE RED FLAGS FOR TSA AND MIGHT GET YOU HELD UP AT THE AIRPORT

Here are some other rules that airlines have regarding clothing. Do any of these surprise you?

1. Hawaiian Airlines

Passengers on Hawaiian Airlines are prohibited from wearing bathing suits, and “clothing must cover the upper part of the torso,” says its Contract of Carriage.

Hawaiian Airlines customers have to leave their bathing suits for the beach. (iStock)

Shorts are fine, but “speedos and bikini bottoms are not allowed,” said Hawaiian Airlines. And bare feet are not okay either.

“In all cases, clothing must not be lewd, obscene, or patently offensive to others,” said Hawaiian Airlines.

FLIGHT PASSENGERS DEBATE TIME NEEDED TO CATCH CONNECTING PLANES

2. Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines passengers cannot wear clothes that are “lewd, obscene, or patently offensive,” and passengers must wear shoes.

Customer can’t wear “lewd” clothing on board Southwest flights. (Angus Mordant/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

3. United Airlines

Similarly to Southwest, passengers on United have a pretty loose dress code. United Airlines’ contract of carriage specifies that passengers must be “properly clothed.”

Clothing cannot be “lewd, obscene or offensive,” as well, and passengers have to wear shoes.

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4. American Airlines

American Airlines’ code of carriage does not specify what is not allowed, but says that passengers have to “Dress appropriately; bare feet or offensive clothing aren’t allowed.”

American Airlines bans “offensive clothing” from its planes. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

5. Delta Air Lines

Delta’s code of carriage does not have a specific dress code, but states that passengers can be removed when their “conduct, attire, hygiene or odor creates an unreasonable risk of offense or annoyance to other passengers.”

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6. Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways has a dress code for its business class and above passengers, says its website.

Business Class meals and luxury seating in a Qatar Airways Airbus A350-1000.

Qatar Airway’s passengers in business class must wear “smart casual” clothes. (Richard Baker / In Pictures via Getty Images)

“Depending on your destination, there are different rules and regulations regarding the type of clothing you should wear. The dress code is designed to ensure passengers’ comfort and safety while traveling, so it is important to understand the rules before departing,” said Qatar Airways.

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This dress code prohibits shorts, sportswear, and “overly revealing clothing,” and business class passengers should be dressed “smart casual.”

“Passengers should pay attention to the dress code when traveling in business class, as it will ensure their comfort and respect for other passengers,” said Qatar Airways.

Christine Rousselle is a lifestyle reporter with Fox News Digital.

Trump administration needs more planes to carry out deportations: report

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January 25, 2025

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Primeros vuelos con deportados

¡Promesas hechas, promesas cumplidas! Están en marcha los vuelos con deportados, mientras el gobierno de Trump intensifica ofensiva de seguridad fronteriza prometida en campaña electoral.

They need more planes.

The Trump administration began its promised deportations of illegal immigrants this week, but senior Deputy White House Chief of Staff Stephen Miller said Friday that more aircraft are needed to speed up the process.

Miller told reporters that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) had been hampered in its ability to deport illegal migrants because of a lack of aircraft and the administration is trying to secure enough planes from half a dozen sources, per Bloomberg.

ICE raids took place as early as Tuesday and White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt released photos of people boarding C-17s on Friday morning, announcing that “deportation flights had begun,”. One of the photos was taken at Biggs Army Airfield at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas, U.S. and it was one of two flights that had departed for Guatemala on Thursday at 5 p.m. local time.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt released this image Friday, writing on X that “deportation flights have begun.” A Mississippi lawmaker is proposing paying bounty hunters to help deport illegal immigrants. (White House)

MEXICO DENIES ACCESS TO LAND FOR US DEPORTATION FLIGHT AFTER MISCOMMUNICATION, STATE DEPT. OFFICIAL SAYS

Customs and Border Protection sources told Fox News the plane in the image had 80 people. A third flight, bound for Mexico, never took off after Mexico declined to consent to the landing, a State Department official told Fox News.

But on Friday Miller suggested the administration was looking to scale up the operations and was looking into sourcing aircraft including from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Defense (DOD) to do so.

“You have obviously DHS air assets, you have DOD air assets, you have State Department air assets, you have commercial air assets, you have charter air assets, so every asset that can be used to conduct a lawful deportation,” Miller said, per Bloomberg.

“Border czar” Tom Homan told ABC News on Friday that the administration will use military aircraft every day to help carry out the operation.

Around 2,000 illegal immigrants were deported to Mexico on Thursday, both on the ground and in the air. In addition, Mexico detained roughly 5,000 migrants within its borders, Fox News reported.

When asked about the need for more aircraft, Leavitt said that the Trump administration is using both military and non-military aircrafts to accomplish this mission.

Deputy White House Chief of Staff Stephen Miller said Friday that more aircraft are needed to speed up the deportation process of illegal migrants. (Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc )

UP TO 250,000 CHILDREN BORN TO ILLEGAL MIGRANTS IN 2023: PRELIMINARY REPORT

“In one week, the Trump Administration has already facilitated a record number of illegal migrant deportation flights, and the Administration is using both military and non-military aircrafts to accomplish this mission,” Leavitt said in a statement to Fox News Digital.

“Joe Biden allowed tens of millions of illegal criminals into the country, and in order to detain and deport as many as possible, Congress must past a reconciliation bill that includes funding for border enforcement, detention centers, and deportation efforts.”

The administration has taken a number of actions to secure the border, including deploying the military, restarting wall construction and ending Biden-era parole programs.

The Department of Homeland Security has issued a slew of memos since President Donald Trump’s inauguration, ordering reviews of parole and expanding the ability of officials to quickly deport illegal immigrants from the U.S. who have recently arrived. Those memos have been signed by Acting Secretary Benjamine Huffman.

ICE raids began under President Donald Trump this week. (Getty Images)

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Meanwhile, Miller also said that the administration would use various tools to remove those granted humanitarian parole to enter the country when they otherwise wouldn’t have permission.

“There’s digital footprints, there’s financial footprints, there’s routine law enforcement intelligence,” he said. “There’s a wide array of tools we have to identify and remove those individuals.”

According to Bloomberg, former President Joe Biden declined to use military aircraft. His administration often used commercial aircraft to deport migrants.

Fox News’ Adam Shaw and Louis Casiano contributed to this report.

Michael Dorgan is a writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business.

You can send tips to michael.dorgan@fox.com and follow him on Twitter @M_Dorgan.

Disney Cruise Line increases recommended gratuities

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January 25, 2025

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Disney Cruise Line increased its recommended daily gratuity amount, its website announced earlier this week.

“We recommend a gratuity amount of $16.00 USD per night, per stateroom Guest, including infants and children,” said the Disney Cruise Line Website.

Previously, Disney Cruise Line had a recommended gratuity of $14.50 per day for each guest.

HOTTEST US DESTINATIONS FOR TRAVEL IN 2025, ACCORDING TO TRIPADVISOR

These pre-paid gratuities are given to dining room servers, their assistants, the head server, and the stateroom host, said Disney Cruise Line.

These gratuities do not include tips for room service, any extra items added to including dining, specialty dining locations, port adventures, spa services, or “any other additional services,” said Disney Cruise Line.

Disney Cruise Line recently raised its recommended daily gratuity. (iStock)

“There is an 18% gratuity charged for bar, beverage, wine, deck service tabs and spa services. All gratuities can be charged to your onboard account,” said Disney Cruise Line.

For cruise guests in concierge staterooms and suites, the recommended gratuity is $27.75 per night per guest, said Disney Cruise Line. This increased cost “includes gratuity for the assistant stateroom host, who services the Concierge accommodations, and the Concierge Lounge team, in addition to the positions listed above.”

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The previous recommended gratuity for concierge guests was $23.50.

These gratuities are optional, said Disney Cruise Line, and can be removed from one’s bill by going to guest services, said the website.

Disney Cruise Line was founded in 1995 and currently has six ships in its fleet. (Eugene Gologursky/Getty Images for Macy’s, Inc.)

“Requests to refund pre-paid optional gratuities may only be processed in full back to the original form of payment, which may include forms of payment made by a travel agent,” said Disney Cruise Line.

Disney Cruise Line was founded in 1995 and now has six ships in its fleet. The newest, the Disney Treasure, embarked on her maiden voyage on Dec. 21, 2024, FOX Business previously reported.

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Gratuities on cruise lines are commonplace, said the travel website The Points Guy.

“The extra cost of the automatic gratuity charges can be a shock to first-time cruisers. At some lines, these charges run as high as $25 per day,” said The Points Guy.

Gratuities on cruise ships are commonplace. (iStock)

Disney Cruise Line’s $16 recommended gratuity is comparable to other cruise lines, reported Fox Live Now.

Carnival Cruise Line also has a recommended gratuity of $16. Royal Caribbean’s suggested gratuity is $18.50 and Norwegian Cruise Line’s is $20.

Some cruise lines do not have a recommended gratuity, and instead cover it in their fares, noted The Points Guy.

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These include the cruise lines Azamara, Ponant, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, Seabourn, SeaDream Yacht Club, Silversea Cruises and Virgin Voyages, said The Points Guy.

Christine Rousselle is a lifestyle reporter with Fox News Digital.

Allstate sued for allegedly tracking and selling 45M Americans’ location data

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January 25, 2025

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Nowadays, almost every app you download asks for location permissions, meaning it wants to track where you are and your movements. For an app like Google Maps, requesting location access makes perfect sense. It’s also reasonable for apps like Uber or DoorDash, which rely on location for their services.

However, many apps that have nothing to do with location still ask for it, and we often grant these permissions without thinking twice. When you give an app access to your location, that data is stored and, in some cases, might even be sold. According to Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, this practice is not uncommon.

A recent lawsuit filed by Paxton alleges that the insurance company Allstate collected and sold the location data of 45 million Americans’ smartphones.

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Illustration of a company tracking customer’s data. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Allstate was allegedly collecting and stealing data

In a press release, Paxton announced that he had sued Allstate and its subsidiary, Arity, for unlawfully collecting, using and selling data about the location and movements of Texans’ cellphones. The data was gathered through secretly embedded software in mobile apps, such as Life360. “Allstate and other insurers then used the covertly obtained data to justify raising Texans’ insurance rates,” the press release stated.

The insurance provider allegedly collected trillions of miles’ worth of location data from more than 45 million Americans nationwide. The data was reportedly used to build the “world’s largest driving behavior database.” When customers sought a quote or renewed their coverage, Allstate and other insurance companies allegedly used the database to justify raising car insurance premiums.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

Paxton claims the actions violated the Texas Data Privacy and Security Act. The lawsuit alleges customers were not clearly informed their data was being collected and did not consent to the practice.

“Our investigation revealed that Allstate and Arity paid mobile apps millions of dollars to install Allstate’s tracking software,” said Paxton. “The personal data of millions of Americans was sold to insurance companies without their knowledge or consent in violation of the law. Texans deserve better and we will hold all these companies accountable.”

We reached out to Allstate and Arity for comments. A rep for the Allstate Corporation provided CyberGuy with this statement: “Arity helps consumers get the most accurate auto insurance price after they consent in a simple and transparent way that fully complies with all laws and regulations.”

Illustration of a person laying out how company tracking works. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

MASSIVE SECURITY FLAW PUTS MOST POPULAR BROWSERS AT RISK ON MAC

Car manufacturers apparently do this all the time

Car manufacturers have also been accused of selling similar data to insurance companies. Last year, Paxton sued General Motors for allegedly collecting and selling the private driving data of more than 1.5 million Texans to insurance companies without their knowledge or consent. In addition to insurance companies, data brokers are frequent buyers of customer data. Critics say these brokers fail to adequately protect the information, leaving it vulnerable to hackers. Earlier this month, hackers claimed to have breached Gravy Analytics, a major location data broker and the parent company of Venntel, which is known for selling smartphone location data to U.S. government agencies.

Illustration of a hacker looking at someone’s personal data. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

HOW TO REMOVE YOUR PRIVATE DATA FROM THE INTERNET

5 ways to stay safe from unwanted tracking

1. Avoid installing the insurance company’s app: Many insurance companies encourage users to download their apps to “simplify” claims, payments or policy management. However, these apps often collect and track your location data under the guise of improving their services. If the app is not absolutely essential, manage your account through the company’s website or contact customer service directly instead.

2. Don’t give location permissions unnecessarily: When an app requests location access, ask yourself whether it genuinely needs this information to function. For example, a weather app may need approximate location data, but a flashlight app does not. Always choose “Deny” or “Allow only while using the app” unless absolutely necessary. Most modern devices also allow you to provide an approximate location rather than a precise one, which is a safer option when location access is unavoidable.

3. Review and manage app permissions regularly: Over time, you may forget which apps have been granted permissions. Regularly go through your device’s app settings to check and adjust permissions. On most devices, you can access this under settings > privacy > app permissions (specific steps vary by operating system). Revoke access for any apps that don’t need it or seem suspicious.

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4. Turn off location services when not in use: Keep location services off when you don’t need them. This reduces the chances of apps or devices tracking you passively in the background. For tasks like mapping or food delivery, turn location services on temporarily, then turn them off when you’re done. For added security, avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, which can also be used to track your location indirectly.

5. Use privacy-focused tools and apps: Invest in tools designed to safeguard your privacy. Virtual private networks (VPNs) can mask your location online and prevent unwanted tracking while browsing. VPNs will also protect you from those who want to track and identify your potential location and the websites that you visit. For best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices

BEWARE OF ENCRYPTED PDFS AS THE LATEST TRICK TO DELIVER MALWARE TO YOU

Kurt’s key takeaway

If Allstate is indeed unlawfully collecting and selling people’s location data, Attorney General Paxton is right to hold them accountable by filing a lawsuit. In an era where cybercriminals exploit every opportunity to scam individuals, companies that fail to protect customer data are unacceptable and should face consequences. Data has become the new oil, and everyone seems eager to exploit it — often at the expense of ordinary people. Businesses that prioritize profits over privacy erode trust and put consumers at risk, making it crucial to enforce strict accountability for such practices.

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Do you think companies like Allstate should be required to make their data practices crystal clear to customers? Let us know by writing 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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Fox News AI Newsletter: Musk vs. Altman

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January 25, 2025

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Elon Musk, right, has cast doubt on whether there is enough funding available to follow through on a $500 billion AI infrastructure project announced by President Donald Trump on Tuesday. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, left, pushed back on Musk’s claims. (Getty Images / Getty Images) (Getty Images)

Welcome to Fox News’ Artificial Intelligence newsletter with the latest AI technology advancements.

IN TODAY’S NEWSLETTER:

– Musk casts doubt on Trump-backed Stargate project: ‘They don’t actually have the money’
– Elon Musk biographer offers big prediction for Trump term
– AI abortion training has arrived: New tech tools navigate the blurry line between healthcare and politics
-Trump’s AI deal fueling early cancer detection: Oracle’s Larry Ellison
-Microsoft CEO says AI is the ‘most important’ export of American services

EMPTY COFFERS?: Business magnate and X CEO Elon Musk has cast doubt on whether there is enough funding available to follow through on a massive $500 billion artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure project announced by President Donald Trump on Tuesday.

SpaceX and Tesla founder Elon Musk speaks during an America PAC town hall on Oct. 26, 2024 in Lancaster, Pa. ( Samuel Corum/Getty Images)

ON THE BRINK: Walter Isaacson, author of “Elon Musk,” discusses the Trump administration’s collaboration with tech giants to drive AI innovation and technological advancement on “America’s Newsroom.”

Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump hugs Elon Musk at a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show, Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

CONTROVERSIAL TECH: Artificial intelligence (AI) tools are now available for future medical professionals at one Texas university to navigate the complexities of pregnancy and abortion—a development that further blurs the line between technology, politics and healthcare.

Texas medical students have developed new AI tools to assist women with different pregnancy options, including abortion. (Jan Woitas/picture alliance via Getty Images/iStock)

FUELING CANCER VACCINES: Oracle founder Larry Ellison said the massive artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure project dubbed Stargate is helping to fuel the development of a cancer vaccine.

Oracle founder Larry Ellison speaks during a news conference with President Donald Trump in the Roosevelt Room of the White House on Jan. 21, 2025, in Washington, D.C.

‘MOST IMPORTANT’ EXPORT: Microsoft vice chair and president Brad Smith breaks down how the company plans to invest in artificial intelligence during an appearance on ‘Mornings with Maria.’

A view shows a Microsoft logo at Microsoft offices in Issy-les-Moulineaux near Paris, France, on Jan. 25, 2023. (REUTERS/Gonzalo Fuentes)

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Stay up to date on the latest AI technology advancements and learn about the challenges and opportunities AI presents now and for the future with Fox News here.

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Willing to pay $175,000 for a life-size robot friend that remembers everything about you?

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January 25, 2025

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In a world where loneliness is becoming increasingly prevalent, researchers have taken a bold step forward by introducing Melody, a life-sized artificial intelligence robot designed to combat this growing epidemic.

However, Melody is not just another gadget; she represents a significant move toward creating robots that closely resemble humans in both appearance and interaction.

Melody, the life-sized AI robot. (Realbotix)

The vision behind Melody

Realbotix, the innovative tech firm responsible for Melody’s creation, aims to produce robots that are not only visually indistinguishable from humans but also capable of meaningful interactions.

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According to CEO Andrew Kiguel, “Melody was created with the intention of having robots that are easy to travel with and modify for various forms of personal interaction.” This focus on adaptability allows Melody to serve multiple roles, from educational tools to companions in entertainment.

Melody, the life-sized AI robot. (Realbotix)

Features that set Melody apart

Melody boasts an impressive array of features that enhance her functionality and user experience:

Realistic movements: Equipped with advanced motor technology, Melody can execute fluid and natural movements, enhancing her ability to engage in lifelike interactions.

CHINA’S NEWEST HUMANOID ROBOT IS READY TO SERVE LIKE NEVER BEFORE

Eye tracking and object recognition: With micro-cameras embedded in her eyes, she can maintain eye contact and recognize objects, making conversations feel more genuine.

Modular design: Her components can be easily disassembled and reassembled, allowing for portability and customization according to user needs.

Open-source compatibility: Melody’s design supports integration with various AI platforms, including Realbotix’s proprietary companionship AI, making her versatile for different applications.

Melody, the life-sized AI robot. (Realbotix)

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A new kind of companion

Realbotix emphasizes that Melody’s primary purpose lies in fostering connection rather than intimacy. Her role as an engaging companion is designed to enhance human experiences through interaction and fun. However, she can engage in adult conversations if desired. The company envisions Melody as a versatile solution for addressing loneliness, with potential applications across multiple domains such as education, healthcare and personal companionship.

Melody, the life-sized AI robot. (Realbotix)

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

The price of connection

With a price tag of $175,000, Melody is positioned as a premium product aimed at those seeking a unique blend of companionship and technology. This investment speaks to the growing market for humanoid robots designed for personal interaction, reflecting a shift in how we view relationships in an increasingly digital world.

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Melody, the life-sized AI robot. (Realbotix)

Kurt’s key takeaways

One look at Melody, and you might think she is designed for something else entirely. As technology evolves, so too does our understanding of companionship. Melody represents not just a technological advancement but also a cultural shift towards accepting robots as part of our social fabric. With her ability to remember personal interactions and adapt to individual preferences, she challenges our perceptions of connection in the modern age.

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What do you think about the rise of humanoid robots like Melody? Are they the solution to loneliness or just another gadget? Let us know what you think by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover .

Follow Kurt on his social channels:

Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:

New from Kurt:

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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Flight passengers debate time needed to catch their connecting planes

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January 25, 2025

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With so many airline passengers traveling from coast to coast, direct flights may not be an option.

Whether layovers wind up being a short stop or a few hours, they’re often part of the journey.

A user on Reddit posted a question in the “r/americanairlines” forum, wondering if his or her grandmother would have “enough time to connect.”

EVERYDAY BEHAVIORS BY FLIGHT PASSENGERS THAT ARE RED FLAGS FOR TSA AND MIGHT GET YOU HELD UP AT THE AIRPORT

Along with sharing a screenshot of the flight, the user said that his or her grandma would be traveling from Cedar Rapids, Michigan, to Savannah, Georgia.

“Both flights are mainline, which should help, but 55 minutes [between flights] still makes me a bit nervous,” the person wrote.

A Reddit user (not pictured) was concerned about a grandmother’s layover at an airport — prompting debate about connection times between flights. (iStock)

Fellow flyers took to the comments section to help provide tips, share experiences and discuss how much time was needed for a connection.

“It’ll be tight, but you should be OK,” said one person.

The commenter went on, “She should be OK. Pick a seat close to the front if possible — that will give her a little extra time.”

FLIGHT PASSENGER ASKS IF ‘SEAT SQUATTERS’ ARE BECOMING THE NEW NORM, TRIGGERING REACTIONS ON SOCIAL MEDIA

The use shared more context about the Savannah airport, adding, “Terminal 3 is very large, so hopefully your gates aren’t too far apart.”

Another individual commented, “There’s also a chance that you won’t even have to change planes, as both flights are an A319 and the connection time is a normal turnaround time.”

Users weighed in on whether 55 minutes was enough for a Redditor’s grandmother’s connection flight. (iStock)

“Probably,” said one.

The poster responded, “The flight is early in the morning, so hopefully there won’t be any delays on the 1st flight.”

Added the user about the grandmother, “Practically speaking, once she is off the 1st plane, she will only have about 20-25 minutes to walk from one gate to the other.”

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Gary Leff, a Texas-based travel industry expert and author of the blog “View From the Wing,” told Fox News Digital that minimum connection times vary by airport.

“Whether you’re connecting from one airline to another, whether you’re changing terminals, have to go through security, or coming off an international flight and have to clear immigration and customs,” added Leff — all of these situations matter, he indicated.

flight passenger rushing through airport

How much time is enough between connecting flights for passengers? Spokespersons for airports in Miami, Florida, and Boston, Massachusetts, weighed in on the connection time issue. (iStock)

“Some flights on the same airline and within the same terminal will involve shorter allowable connections,” he added.

Leff advised that flights involving immigration and a change in terminal would require at least two hours.

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“You may not miss your flight, but overhead bin space may be gone. And that stop for food or a bathroom break along the way? May not be possible,” said Leff.

A spokesperson for the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) told Fox News Digital that Logan International Airport doesn’t put a timeframe on connections.

Waiting in the airport terminal watching planes

A Miami-Dade Aviation Department spokesperson (not pictured) recommended two hours between connecting flights. (iStock)

“Each airline has a connection time minimum, and it can be different for each due to bags needing to connect, check-in minimums and security minimums,” said the spokesperson.

The individual added, “It can range, but the average is typically 60 minutes depending on domestic or international.”

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Greg Chin, Miami-Dade Aviation Department communications director, shared that the connection does depend on the airlines and if the flight is international or domestic.

“At least two hours is a good recommendation,” said Chin.

Alcohol could be worse for older adults, experts warn

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January 25, 2025

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The negative health impacts of alcohol have been in the spotlight since the surgeon general’s recent advisory, and now experts are warning that older drinkers might be more sensitive to those effects.

As an individual’s body changes with age, so may a person’s tolerance when it comes to drinking.

“As we age, our lean body mass and the water percentage in our body decreases,” Dr. Frederick Davis, associate chair of emergency medicine at Northwell Health on Long Island, New York, told Fox News Digital.

ALCOHOL LINKED TO CANCER RISK IN US SURGEON GENERAL’S NEW ADVISORY

“This leads to a decrease in our ability to metabolize alcohol at the same rate as when we were younger, leading to smaller amounts causing more impairment.”

Experts are warning that older drinkers might be more sensitive to the effects of alcohol. (iStock)

Some studies have also found that older drinkers might be more susceptible to alcohol’s effect on coordination, reaction time and memory.

Healthcare experts warned of the following negative effects of alcohol that can worsen as people age.

1. Heightened cancer risk

In a 2023 study published in the journal Alcohol, chronic heavy alcohol consumption was found to cause DNA damage and oxidative stress, which can lead to an increased risk of cancer, cardiovascular events and liver disease.

It is well-known that alcohol increases the risk of developing various cancers, according to Dr. Frances Lee, who treats alcohol-related liver disease at Mount Sinai Health Systems in New York City.

6 TIPS TO REDUCE ALCOHOL USE AND CANCER RISK AFTER SURGEON GENERAL’S WARNING

“Age is the main factor for developing cancer — and while we can’t stop the aging process, we can control alcohol intake, which can help reduce our overall risk of developing various cancers,” he told Fox News Digital.

Earlier this month, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, MD, issued an advisory warning of the link between alcohol consumption and certain cancers. Murty noted that consuming alcohol increases one’s risk of liver, breast, esophageal, colorectal, esophageal, larynx, mouth and throat cancers.

2. Inflammation and insomnia

Misuse of alcohol can accelerate age-related changes, including systemic inflammation and sleep disturbances, according to the same study in the journal Alcohol.

Chronic use of alcohol in large quantities can contribute to inflammation throughout the body through a process initiated in the gut.

Additionally, the prevalence of insomnia tends to increase with age, and alcohol consumption can worsen it, according to researchers.

Several studies found that although alcohol initially has a sedative effect, it wears off after a few hours and results in disrupted sleep in the second half of the night.

Sleep deprivation is widely known to affect one’s overall health and well-being.

3. Insufficient nutrition

Older adults need to be cautious when consuming alcohol due to nutritional concerns, according to Laura Feldman, a registered dietitian nutritionist and assistant professor of nutrition at Long Island University Post Campus in Brookville, New York.

Older adults need to be cautious when consuming alcohol due to nutritional concerns, according to a registered dietitian. (iStock)

“We need more of many vitamins and minerals as we age,” Feldman told Fox News Digital. “When consumed on a long-term basis, alcohol can actually make it harder for the body to absorb these nutrients from foods.”

4. Worsening of existing conditions

Some older patients may have underlying chronic conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease and heart disease, several health experts told Fox News Digital.

“Not only can alcohol worsen the progression of these chronic conditions, it can also interact with medications, potentially increasing the risk of drug-induced liver injury or other undesired side effects of the medications,” Lee said.

“When consumed on a long-term basis, alcohol can make it harder for the body to absorb nutrients from foods.”

Those who have diabetes or pre-diabetes should be mindful of their alcohol intake, Feldman cautioned, as it can have a direct impact on blood sugar levels.

Alcohol may also affect bone health, which particularly affects those with osteoporosis.

Long-term alcohol consumption can interfere with bone growth and replacement of bone tissue, which can result in decreased bone density and increased risk of fractures, according to several studies.

5. Interactions with medications

An estimated 87% of adults aged 65 and over and more than 90% of those over 75 take prescription medications, according to data from the 2021-2022 National Health Interview Survey.

Combining medications with alcohol can potentially have adverse effects on one’s health, according to Davis from Northwell Health.

The prevalence of insomnia tends to increase with age, and alcohol consumption can worsen it, according to researchers. (iStock)

“Alcohol can interact with a number of medications, making it more difficult to manage and control certain conditions and leading to more side effects,” he told Fox News Digital.

“Avoiding alcohol as we are older can reduce these risks and result in a better chance of a higher quality of life.”

6. Increased pain sensitivity

Chronic pain is one of the most common and potentially debilitating health issues facing older adults, studies have shown.

Alcohol crosses the blood brain barrier, which plays a role in its depressive and addictive effects.

Alcohol can exacerbate this issue by increasing an individual’s sensitivity to pain, some health experts shared with Fox News Digital.

“Chronic pain is a complex process of signals to our brains that is different from acute pain,” Lee said. “The complicated neural signaling of chronic pain can be altered and enhanced with alcohol intake.”

7. Mental and cognitive effects

Lee explained that alcohol — a known depressant — readily crosses the blood brain barrier, which plays a role in its depressive and addictive effects.

Heavy alcohol use has also been found to increase the risk of dementia.

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“Alcohol intake can also worsen cognitive decline, causing issues with memory, as well as worsening some behavioral issues like depression,” Davis told Fox News Digital.

8. Increased fall risk

The risk of falls is known to increase with age. They are the leading cause of injury for adults 65 and older, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Falls “can lead to debilitating injury when we are older,” noted Davis, who specializes in emergency medicine.

Earlier this month, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, MD, issued an advisory warning of the link between alcohol consumption and certain cancers. (iStock)

Alcohol impairment could affect one’s balance and coordination, leading to a higher chance of falls, the doctor cautioned.

Tips on cutting back

Those caring for older adults should approach conversations about alcohol consumption with a focus on collaboration rather than control, according to Jonathan Davis, CEO of Trualta, a U.S.-based company that provides education and support for caregivers.

Broaching the topic with empathy and respect will help to build trust while meeting the aging adult’s emotional and physical needs, he added.

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“For some older adults, enjoying an alcoholic beverage may provide a sense of normalcy and autonomy,” Davis told Fox News Digital.

Seeking a healthcare provider’s guidance can help ensure that the person understands the potential risks and interactions, he noted.

If an individual is struggling with alcohol, experts recommend speaking to a healthcare provider who can recommend support systems and medications if necessary. (iStock)

“Together, caregivers and older adults can develop a plan that balances safety with emotional well-being.”

Davis also recommended exploring alternatives to alcoholic beverages, such as “mocktails,” alcohol-free drinks or specialty teas that can provide similar enjoyment without the risks of alcohol.

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Lee also suggested engaging in activities that do not typically involve alcohol.

If an individual is struggling with alcohol, experts recommend speaking to a healthcare provider who can recommend support systems and medications if necessary.

The NSA says do these 5 things with your phone right now

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Reporters News Wire

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January 24, 2025

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Can’t remember the last time you turned your phone off? Is Bluetooth always on? Do you plug into any charger you can find?

Win a pair of $329 Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses. Enter here, no purchase necessary!

If you answered yes to any of these questions, the NSA says you’re playing a crapshoot with your privacy. The National Security Agency’s purpose is to listen and collect communications from satellites, cellphones and anywhere else, really.

THESE MISTAKES COULD TANK YOUR CREDIT SCORE

Let’s take a deeper look at five smartphone rules they use that you can, too.

1. Restart your phone once a week

It’s dead simple and absolutely worth doing. Turn off your phone, wait 10 seconds, then turn it back on. This works to combat zero-click exploits where a hacker can get in simply by sending you the right code.

Heads up: A restart won’t work for other types of malware. If your phone becomes infected, you’ll need to do a full factory reset.

2. Disable Bluetooth when you don’t need it

Bluetooth works similarly to Wi-Fi and cellular networks but performs simpler tasks at shorter ranges. You don’t need a cellular signal or network connection to use Bluetooth, and it doesn’t use data. And like any other connection, it’s not 100% safe.

Driver holding ice coffee and phone in car

A driver is pictured holding an iced coffee and a mobile phone while in the car. (iStock)

Hackers and scammers must be close to you to use Bluetooth to hijack your phone. But in just about any public space, you’re arm’s length from strangers.

The NSA’s advice: Turn off Bluetooth when you’re not using it. It’ll help battery life, too.

On an iPhone, go to Settings > Bluetooth and switch it off. You can also swipe down from the top right of your screen to open the Control Center and tap the Bluetooth icon.
The same steps work for Android phones. Go to Settings > Connected Devices > Connection Preferences > Bluetooth and switch it off. (Note: Steps may vary based on your phone’s model. Look or search for Bluetooth if these steps don’t match your phone.)

Airplane mode also disables Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, among other things, so it works in a pinch — but you won’t receive calls or texts.

THE STEP I TAKE TO CLEAR MY INBOX EVERY JANUARY

3. Skip public USB ports

In spaces like the airport or coffee shop, hackers can use them to install malware or steal your data. Now, actual cases of juice jacking are rare in the U.S. but it’s still a real threat. They happen through USB connections, so if a kiosk has actual power outlets to charge your phone using your own adapter, you’re good to go.

Stay away from USB ports of any size, especially when traveling overseas. USB standards are international, and foreign hackers can target USB ports in hotels or rentals to steal your data, even if you’re not using a kiosk.

More and more public kiosks have wireless charging pads instead of USBs. This method doesn’t exchange data directly with your phone, so it’s virus-free by default.

If you’re desperate for juice, you can use a USB connection safely … with the right cable. Pack a charge-only cable for your trip. They’re cheap and compact, and they don’t allow for data transfers.

close up of hands of business person working on computer, man using internet and social media

A business person is seen working on a laptop. (iStock)

4. Don’t use public Wi-Fi

It’s a playground for snoopers. Public Wi-Fi is open to everyone, and every device is susceptible, whether it’s your smartphone, laptop or tablet.

Just because a public Wi-Fi network pops up and asks if you want to join doesn’t mean it’s legitimate. If you’re at a coffee shop or hotel, ask an employee for the specific name of their Wi-Fi network. Scammers will sometimes create networks called “Coffee Shop” or “Hotel Guest” to make you believe you’re connecting to the real thing when, actually, you’re not.

Here’s a good rule of thumb: If it requires a username and password to log in, you should only access that site from your own private network. If you do need to access sensitive sites or info on a public network, don’t do it without a VPN enabled.

AI ISN’T GOING ANYWHERE: PROMPTS TO MAKE LIFE EASIER

5. Cover your mic and camera

The NSA says it’s best to use a protective case that drowns out your microphone and covers your camera when you’re not using it.

In “hot-miking” attacks, hackers activate your microphone without you knowing it so they can listen into your conversations. It happens when your device has been compromised in some way, usually through malware or an app that’s exploiting permissions you granted. Most folks aren’t targets for attacks like this, but I’d rather be safe than sorry.

Start with app permissions to check what access you’ve handed out:

Apple iPhone: Go to Settings > Privacy & Security, and look through the list of apps and what permissions they have.
Google Pixel: Open Settings > Security and privacy > Privacy > Permission manager.
Samsung Galaxy: Head to Settings > Security and privacy > Permission manager.

A woman uses her smartphone while waiting to board a plane at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. (Robert Alexander/Getty Images)

It’s not just hackers to worry about. Most of what you type, say, search and buy is being tracked in one way or another.

The only unhackable layer of security is physically blocking the sound or camera feed. There are expensive cases out there that do the job, or you can buy a mic blocker for around $10.

It slides into your headphone port to stop recording. You’ll need an adapter unless your phone still has an audio jack. For a cheaper DIY option, grab your oldest corded headphones, snip them off and plug that into an adapter.

Pro tip: When your phone’s microphone is on or was recently accessed, you’ll see a small orange dot at the top of the screen. You’ll see a green dot if your camera is in use or was recently recording.

While this is on your mind, go a step further. Here’s a quick 5-minute phone cleanup I like to do a few times a year.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

1. Heightened cancer risk

2. Inflammation and insomnia

3. Insufficient nutrition

4. Worsening of existing conditions

5. Interactions with medications

6. Increased pain sensitivity

7. Mental and cognitive effects

8. Increased fall risk

Tips on cutting back

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