Travel experiences to give as last-minute Christmas gifts

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December 23, 2024

HOT TRAVEL GIFTS FOR THE VACATIONER IN YOUR LIFE: TOP PICKS AHEAD OF CHRISTMAS

For folks who love to travel, consider gifting them an unforgettable experience.

Keep reading for top travel gifts for that friend or family member who is always plotting their next great adventure.

Flytographer, from $325 for a 30-minute photo shoot, flytographer.com

Flytographer matches travelers all around the world with local photographers, like this family who captured a special moment in Amsterdam. (Flytographer)

Available in more than 400 destinations around the globe, the Flytographer service matches travelers with local photographers (read: not only will they snap your picture, but they’ll also recommend a lunch spot by the sea, or where to find a little-known hiking trail).

CHRISTMAS STOCKING STUFFER IDEAS FOR THOSE WHO LOVE TO EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY

After their photo shoot, your loved one will receive a digital album with 20 professional photos or more that they frame and put on display.

My Epic Gear Membership, $55, myepicgear.com

Don’t worry about lugging your snow gear around this ski season with the handy membership with My Epic Gear. (Vail Resorts)

Looking for a great gift for a snow bunny?

CYBER MONDAY DEALS ON TRAVEL GIFTS: SEE THESE PRACTICAL PICKS

This handy membership lasts the whole 2024/2025 ski season and gives powder enthusiasts the chance to reserve top-notch gear at 12 Vail Resorts ski resorts in North America such as Stowe, Vail, Whistler Blackcomb and Park City.

With a gear reservation membership, they’ll only have to pay a low daily use fee for boots and skis with poles or a snowboard (BYO boots for an even lower daily use charge) and be spared the headache of waiting in line at a rental shop or lugging ski gear along for vacation.

A brewery, distillery, cidery, vineyard or winery tour, prices vary

Gift your friends with a trip to their favorite brewery, distillery, cidery, vineyard or winery and enjoy a tour. (Southern Distilling Company)

For the oenophile, spirits connoisseur or craft beer obsessive in your life, a tour package at a local or destination brewery, distillery or vineyard makes for a great holiday gift.

AMERICAN-MADE PRODUCTS YOU CAN SHOP FOR THIS HOLIDAY SEASON FOR LOVED ONES

Option to try: Southern Distilling Company tours in Statesville, North Carolina; Seminary Hill cidery tour and tasting in Callicoon, New York; the Ab Astris wine tasting experience in Stonewall, Texas.

Pilot eGift Card, from $10-$1,000, pilotflyingj.com

Grab your road trip essentials at Pilot gas station with this Pilot eGift Card. (Pilot Travel Centers LLC)

This one is perfect for perpetual road trippers: A Pilot gift card for people to get some grub or pick up road trip essentials at any Pilot gas station, with 800+ locations across the U.S. and Canada.

Just design the e-gift card with the visuals of your choice, personalize it with the recipient’s details and write a message and the gift will be emailed to them right away or on the date and time of your choosing.

SCORE BIG ON TRAVEL TUESDAY DEALS FROM AIRFARE, CRUISES AND EXCURSIONS TO GIFT THIS HOLIDAY

A babymoon, prices vary

Gift expectant parents with a babymoon to help them relax before the big day. (Daniel Schwartz)

For expecting parents, a babymoon might be on their list.

The growing trend has paved the way for hotels nationwide to offer a variety of special packages for parents-to-be.

Consider gifting a room at Hotel Lilien in New York’s Catskill mountains, a carefully reimagined 19th century estate that offers a complimentary amenities and snacks package to expecting couples with booking code UPSTATEBABYMOON.

8 GREAT GIFTS FOR FOOD AND WINE LOVERS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

Or, beach lovers ought to book White Elephant Resort in Palm Beach, Florida, where couples can book a two-night package featuring an in-suite massage, a present for parents-to-be and the newborn and a complimentary arrival gift.

Or, check into Finest Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, an all-inclusive resort where you can find some much-needed R&R before baby arrives, and book a “Mum To Be” massage at the spa.

City Experiences Gift Card, from $25, cityexperiences.com

Experience your favorite city by enjoying all the walking and culinary tours led by local experts. (Courtesy of City Experiences)

This holiday season, surprise a travel lover with a City Experiences gift card for one of the hundreds of walking or culinary tours in North America or Europe led by local experts.

In the U.S., tours are available in San Francisco, Chicago, Boston, Washington D.C., and New York City.

Check out options for a day trip from Boston by ferry to the historic town of Salem, Massachusetts, an informative stroll through New York City’s Grand Central Terminal, or a romp around the former Civil War Fort, military prison and federal penitentiary just off the coast of San Francisco, Alcatraz Island.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS GIFT IDEAS FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS INCLUDE 6 HOT PRODUCTS FOR SALE

Drive A Tank, from $374, driveatank.com

You can gift someone on your the opportunity to drive a military tank through the woods in Minnesota. (Drive A Tank)

Give your pal, partner or anyone on your holiday gift list this memory: the chance to pilot a genuine military tank through a 65-acre wooded course in Kasota, Minnesota, at Drive A Tank.

The property is also home to an indoor controlled gun range where visitors can shoot historic military weaponry.

On the East Coast, there’s the World War II Tank Driving and Tank Ride Experience (from $595) at The American Heritage Museum in Hudson, Massachusetts.

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A trip to the Birthplace of America, prices vary, visitphilly.com

History buffs will want to cross this destination off of ther bucket list by visiting Philadelphia, the home of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. (VISIT PHILADELPHIA)

History buffs may rejoice in a trip to the home of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution and more unforgettable culinary experiences than you can count (Forsythia, a.kitchen, Steak 48, to name a few).

For the holidays, Philly is ablaze with traditional decorations and Yuletide cheer, whether you’re wandering around Rittenhouse Square or touring museums like the Barnes Foundation, Philadelphia Museum of Art, or Museum of the American Revolution.

Consider treating your loved one to a festive stay at Hotel AKA Rittenhouse Square, which even has a suite fully decorated for Christmas, tree and all.

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Tinggly Experience Gift Box, prices vary, tinggly.com

With more than a thousand experiences to choose from, get your friends and family a gift box that allows them to enjoy all sorts of activities across the globe. ( Tinggly)

Choose from more than a thousand experiences across the globe, and the recipient will get an eBoucher or gift box that allows them to book a fully covered activity with options for one-to-four people.

For example, take the new California Dreaming experience box: Your loved one can pick from 200+ experiences, from a sunset sail to Dana Point Dolphin and Whale Watching to tasting esteemed wines in Napa Valley.

Perri Ormont Blumberg is a contributing lifestyle reporter for Fox News Digital.

5 tips to stay healthy during holiday travel, from Dr. Marc Siegel

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December 22, 2024

NEW TRAVEL TREND HAS AMERICANS CHASING FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH

Travel is a big part of the holiday season, with statistics showing that more than 119 million Americans plan to embark on some type of journey between Christmas and New Year’s.

Unfortunately, traveling also increases the risk of getting sick — but there are steps you can take to increase your chances of staying healthy while away from home.

“When you’re traveling, when you’re on the road, there’s a lot of risk of stress and disorientation,” Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Health and Fox News senior medical analyst, told Fox News Digital.

“You’re not in your usual habitat, and that can make people disoriented, upset, anxious or even sleep-deprived, especially when changing time zones.”

Siegel shared some of his top tips for preventing illness during holiday travel.

Traveling increases the risk of getting sick — but there are steps you can take to increase your chances of staying healthy while away from home. (iStock)

1. Stay well-hydrated

Staying hydrated has been shown to boost the immune system and protect against illness.

Water is always best, but other hydrating fluids include plain coffee or tea, sparkling or flavored waters, 100% vegetable juice, and milk or milk alternatives.

2. Keep up with your exercise routine

It’s best to travel while “well-exercised,” Siegel said.

“If you have a regular exercise routine, I wouldn’t suspend it a week before travel,” he said.

‘HOLIDAY SHOPPING WIPES ME OUT, HOW CAN I KEEP UP MY STAMINA?’: ASK A DOCTOR

“If you’re regularly exercising, sleeping right and eating right before you go, I think that that puts you in much better shape when you’re traveling.”

3. Wipe down surfaces

Siegel said he’s a “big believer” in wiping down surfaces, especially when traveling by plane.

“You wouldn’t believe what these surfaces carry — we’ve studied that,” he said. “There are a lot of germs in that tray table, and it’s the person next to you who could be sick.”

“You wouldn’t believe what these surfaces carry — we’ve studied that,” Siegel said. “There are a lot of germs in that tray table, and it’s the person next to you who could be sick.” (iStock)

The HEPA filters on planes are “quite good,” Siegel said, but most of the time they don’t start working until you’re up in the air, he noted.

“So you want to be most cautious when you’re on the runway or just getting onto the plane,” he added.

4. Stay up-to-date on vaccines

“When you’re about to take a trip, it is a good time for you to think about whether you’re up-to-date on your vaccines,” Siegel said.

One immunization that isn’t given enough attention, according to the doctor, is Tdap, a combination vaccine that protects against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough).

It is given at least once every five to 10 years.

COVID VACCINE DISTRUST GROWING AMONG AMERICANS

“There’s a ton of whooping cough around this year,” Siegel said. “Thousands of cases are reported, but many thousands aren’t.”

The doctor also recommends the shingles shot for those over the age of 50 and the pneumonia vaccine for people 60 and older.

“When you’re about to take a trip, it is a good time for you to think about whether you’re up-to-date on your vaccines,” Siegel said. (iStock)

“When you’re under stress from travel, that might be when you could get sick,” Siegel said, as the immune system isn’t functioning at an optimal level.

“When you’re under stress from travel, that might be when you could get sick.”

“That’s when shingles might reappear,” he warned. “Shingles is actually a chickenpox virus that’s dormant in your body for years, but can recur at times of stress.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also recommends that everyone 6 months and older receives COVID and flu vaccinations, with rare exceptions.

5. Pack a travel health kit

For those who take multiple daily medications, the doctor recommends traveling with one pill bottle and putting the various pills in it, making it less likely for any to get misplaced.

“Make sure you have more than enough,” he advised. “You never know when you’re going to get delayed, especially around holiday travel.”

Siegel recommends bringing three or four extra days of pills for all medications. (iStock)

Siegel recommends bringing three or four extra days of pills for all medications.

“Depending on what chronic illnesses you may have, it’s a good idea to be up-to-date with blood draws and visits to your doctor” before traveling, he added.

6. Get sufficient, quality sleep

It can be challenging to maintain a regular sleep cycle while traveling, Siegel noted, especially when time zones are changing.

“The more you can catch some winks while traveling, the better off you’re going to be,” he said.

SLEEP AND TRAVEL DON’T ALWAYS MIX: HERE ARE 7 TIPS TO HELP YOU REST ON THE ROAD

For those who have trouble falling asleep while on the road, Siegel recommends identifying what makes you drift off at home and using those same techniques.

“I get asked a lot for sleeping aids,” he said. “For people who are traveling on long trips, I personally am uncomfortable giving medication if the patient hasn’t been taking it already.”

7. Use masks as needed

While masks “got a bad name” during the pandemic because of mandates, Siegel noted that they are tools that can be used for those who are ill or at a higher risk.

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“If you’re a person who’s at risk of an infectious disease or has a chronic illness, the last thing you need is to get the flu, COVID or RSV.”

While masks “got a bad name” during the pandemic because of mandates, Siegel noted that they are tools that can be used for those who are ill or at a higher risk. (iStock)

The doctor recommends considering a mask for tight spaces where there are a lot of people around.

“You don’t know what they have or what they are harboring,” he said.

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

“That’s why I would consider one, especially if you’re at high risk, if you’re on a plane that’s sitting on the runway and the air isn’t circulating and the HEPA filters aren’t yet engaged.”

Overall, Siegel said, “staying hydrated, eating right and sleeping properly as best as possible is the way to go in decreasing stress while traveling.”

Melissa Rudy is senior health editor and a member of the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to melissa.rudy@fox.com.

Sen. Rand Paul pledges to get Trump’s cabinet picks approved

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December 22, 2024

TRUMP ADMINISTRATION TAKES SHAPE: PRESIDENT-ELECT COMPLETES TOP 15 CABINET PICKS

Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., on Sunday said he “couldn’t be happier” with President-elect Trump’s Cabinet nominees, saying he will work to push them through as quickly as possible.

When Paul was asked during an appearance on “Sunday Morning Futures” whether he would support all of Trump’s picks for his inner circle, the senator responded, “I couldn’t have picked better.”

“The vast majority I will support on day one,” the senator said. “We’ll try to get Kristi Noem through Department of Homeland Security, Russ Vought for [Office of Management and Budget]. … I think in the first week you’ll have half a dozen of them approved in the first week.”

Paul said that he will control one committee in charge of confirming the nominees, adding, “I pledge to get them through as quickly as possible.”

Sen. Rand Paul has said he will chair the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee with the start of the new Congress in January. (Anna Moneymaker/The New York Times/Bloomberg via Getty Images, File)

Paul has said that he will chair the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee with the start of the new Congress in January.

Trump has handpicked an array of establishment and unconventional officials for the 15 top posts in his Cabinet, including Health and Human Services pick Robert F. Kennedy Jr., FBI Director selection Kash Patel and Sen. Marco Rubio as the nominee for Secretary of State.

Rand Paul speaks to reporters on Capitol Hill

Paul said he “couldn’t be happier” with President-elect Trump’s Cabinet nominees. (Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images, File)

ABC, CBS AND NBC EVENING NEWSCAST COVERAGE OF TRUMP’S CABINET PICKS ‘ALMOST UNIFORMLY NEGATIVE,’ STUDY FINDS

Some of Trump’s picks proved controversial, such as Patel, Defense Secretary pick Pete Hegseth and Director of National Intelligence nominee Tulsi Gabbard.

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In late November, Fox News Digital learned that nearly a dozen of Trump’s Cabinet nominees and other appointees tapped for the incoming administration were targeted with “violent, unAmerican threats to their lives and those who live with them.”

Top 5 mistakes that could expose your financial data to cybercriminals

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December 22, 2024

GET SECURITY ALERTS, EXPERT TIPS – SIGN UP FOR KURT’S NEWSLETTER – THE CYBERGUY REPORT HERE

How secure is your financial information? Let’s do a little test: Do you currently have a budgeting app installed on your phone? Statistically speaking, there’s a good chance you do.

Seventy-five percent of smartphone owners have tried at least one. It seems like a smart move to take control of your finances, right? Unfortunately, what many people don’t realize is that apps like these could be exposing your sensitive financial data.

That’s just one example. There are other common habits and oversights that could leave your financial data wide open to cybercriminals.

Mistakes like these don’t just jeopardize your bank account, they can lead to devastating consequences like identity theft, mounting debt and even shattered retirement plans. I’ll walk you through the five biggest mistakes that could be putting your financial future at risk, and, more importantly, how to avoid them.

A couple working on their budget (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

The 5 biggest mistakes you should avoid

Navigating the digital world can be tricky, especially when avoiding common pitfalls that compromise your privacy and security. Here are the five biggest mistakes you should avoid:

1. Neglecting security measures

This is one of the biggest pitfalls many of us fall into. There are so many things we have to do these days to keep our online security up to par. It’s easy to grow complacent, essentially leaving the door wide open for cybercriminals to walk through. Here are the basics you should never forget to follow:

Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) everywhere you can, especially online accounts that hold your financial information.

Keep your software updated. Hackers exploit known weaknesses in old versions of apps, operating systems and even browsers. So, be sure to regularly update your software on all your devices.

Avoid using public, unsecured networks, especially when accessing sensitive accounts like online banking or even e-commerce. If you have no other choice, use a trusted VPN to encrypt your online activity, including financial information. For the best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices

A woman scrolling on her phone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

DON’T CLICK THAT LINK! HOW TO SPOT AND PREVENT PHISHING ATTACKS IN YOUR INBOX

2. Reusing passwords

Though technically a security measure, this one’s so bad, it deserves its own spot on the list. A recent survey revealed that more than half of Americans reuse passwords on at least some of their accounts. Make sure you’re not one of them.

When hackers compromise one account, they don’t stop there. They use a technique called credential stuffing, by which stolen login details are tested on other platforms. So, if you’ve reused the same password for your bank account, email and favorite shopping site, one data breach can take them all down in one fell swoop.

If you don’t have a perfect memory, capable of memorizing every password you’ll ever need, I recommend using a trusted password manager. They can generate and store complex, unique passwords for all your accounts so you don’t have to remember them yourself.

A woman working on her budget (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

SNEAKY SCAMMERS DRAIN BANK ACCOUNT IN SINISTER PHONE PHISHING SCHEME

3. Using budgeting apps

Budgeting apps can be a convenient tool for managing your finances, but they also come with potential risks that many users overlook. These apps often share user data with third parties and may request extensive permissions, including access to sensitive personal information. This can raise concerns about privacy and data security, especially if the app lacks robust safeguards. Before using a budgeting app, it’s crucial to carefully review its permissions and data-sharing policies to protect your financial and personal information.

Instead of relying on a budgeting app, consider utilizing your bank’s online tools. Many banks offer built-in budgeting and expense-tracking features within their secure online banking platforms. These are typically more privacy-focused than third-party apps. Here are some examples:

Bank of America: Offers interactive charts that break down spending trends, highlight budget categories and show total monthly spending with customizable categories.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

Wells Fargo: Features a package called My Money Map, which includes spending reports, personalized budget creation, goal setting and visual analysis of spending compared to budget limits.

Capital One: Provides automated budgeting tools through its 360 Checking account, allowing customers to track and categorize expenses automatically. It also features Eno, a virtual assistant for transaction inquiries.

Chase: Offers built-in budgeting tools that seamlessly integrate with your accounts. This includes features like automatic expense categorization, spending insights and personalized budget tracking. With Chase, you can also set savings goals and monitor your progress directly through their mobile app or online banking platform.

Huntington National Bank: Offers several in-app budgeting tools, including Spend Analysis for expense tracking, Spend Setter for setting category limits and Look Ahead Calendar for visualizing upcoming payments.

Regions Bank: Provides a suite of budgeting tools called My GreenInsights, accessible via mobile app and desktop, allowing customers to track expenses, set spending targets and receive suggestions for reducing expenses.

These bank-provided tools offer the advantage of being integrated directly with your accounts, potentially providing more accurate and up-to-date information while maintaining a higher level of privacy compared to third-party apps.

If you decide to stick to a budgeting app, though, make sure to check its privacy section on the App Store or Google Play, where you can see what data it collects and shares. Then, read the app’s privacy policy carefully, as tedious and often deliberately overcomplicated as that can be.

A man using his phone and laptop to work on his budget (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

YOUR EMAIL DIDN’T EXPIRE, IT’S JUST ANOTHER SNEAKY SCAM

4. Shopping anywhere online

Online shopping is convenient and tempting, especially during major sales events like Black Friday. But diving headfirst into deals without knowing the retailer could cost you more than you bargained for.

When you shop on unfamiliar websites, you’re sharing sensitive information like your financial data, address and contact details. If the retailer doesn’t have strong privacy or security measures in place, this data could end up in the hands of cybercriminals or be sold to data brokers.

Even popular retailers aren’t always safe. For instance, platforms like Temu, which attract millions of shoppers, have faced scrutiny for questionable data practices. Popularity doesn’t guarantee good privacy or security standards. To protect yourself, shop only on websites with a solid reputation for security and privacy. Here’s how you can verify a site before making a purchase:

Check their privacy policy to understand how they collect, use and share your data.
Read consumer reviews to spot red flags, like poor customer service or complaints of data misuse.
Whenever possible, use a virtual credit card or payment service like PayPal to add an extra layer of protection for your financial information.

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A man using his phone for budgeting purposes (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

5. Allowing data brokers to keep and sell your information

Unless you go completely off the grid digitally — no internet, online accounts or smartphones — it’s nearly impossible to avoid leaving a digital footprint. Most companies collect and share your personal information, which ends up in the hands of data brokers and people-search websites that aggregate and sell it to even more third parties.

Data brokerage is a $245.8 billion industry that profits off your personal information at the expense of your privacy and security. Some data brokers have even been caught intentionally selling information to scammers. People-search sites also provide an accessible way for anyone, including fraudsters, to get their hands on your personal information.

To mitigate these risks, it’s crucial to periodically remove your information from these databases. While it’s not a perfect solution, consistent removal can significantly reduce your exposure and safeguard both your financial data and personal safety. Check out my top picks for data removal services here.

Kurt’s key takeaways

From my experience, it’s easy to overlook these risks in our fast-paced, convenience-driven world. But taking just a few minutes to review your security practices can save you from a world of trouble. Don’t wait until it’s too late to protect yourself and your loved ones. Neglecting basic security like two-factor authentication, reusing passwords or shopping on untrustworthy websites can leave you exposed. Using finance apps that share your data, like allowing data brokers to profit off your personal information, also increases your risks of experiencing fraud and identity theft. By staying vigilant, you can protect both your finances and your loved ones.

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

Have you made any of the mistakes on this list, or do you have others you’d add? Let us know 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

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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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Food tracking just got lazy — in the best way possible — with this wearable

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December 22, 2024

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Are you tired of the endless hassle of counting calories and manually logging every meal?

Say goodbye to the frustration with The Drop, the world’s first fully automated nutrition tracker.

This groundbreaking wearable device is designed to revolutionize how you monitor your diet, making nutrition tracking effortless and intuitive.

Man wearing The Drop (Kickstarter)

What is The Drop?

The Drop is a wearable nutrition tracker powered by innovative Nutri Track technology.

It automatically records everything you eat throughout the day and syncs seamlessly with its companion app, eliminating the need for tedious manual food logging. Whether you’re tracking calories, macronutrients or overall dietary habits, The Drop does it all for you.

AI WEARABLE PROMISES TO HELP YOU REMEMBER EVERYTHING

How The Drop works

The Drop uses advanced computer vision and artificial intelligence to detect meals with remarkable precision. When you start eating, the smart AI chip activates, and a 4K camera takes a cropped image of your meal. This image is sent to the cloud, where sophisticated algorithms analyze it to calculate calories, protein, carbs, fats and micronutrients. The nutritional breakdown is then instantly displayed in the companion app, giving you actionable insights into your diet.

BEST WEARABLE CUTTING EDGE TECH

Say goodbye to manual logging with The Drop

Traditional nutrition tracking tools often rely on you manually logging every meal or snack, which can feel overwhelming and unsustainable. The Drop eliminates these challenges by providing:

Automatic tracking: No more forgetting to log meals or snacks.

Accurate insights: Advanced algorithms ensure precise nutritional data.

Effortless use: Simply wear it and let it do the work for you.

By acting as a personal nutritionist in your pocket, The Drop empowers you to understand your eating habits and make informed dietary decisions without stress or effort.

The Drop’s companion app (Kickstarter)

BEST WEARABLE DEVICES TO TRACK YOUR BLOOD OXYGEN LEVELS

The companion app: Rex Premium

Included with The Drop is lifetime access to Rex Premium, an AI-powered nutrition app that enhances your tracking experience. The app offers personalized meal plans tailored to your specific dietary goals and seamlessly integrates with Apple Fitness and Google Fit to provide a holistic approach to health tracking.

You will have access to a curated collection of recipes that match your individual preferences and dietary needs. The comprehensive dashboard allows for seamless monitoring of nutrition, workouts, sleep and overall wellness, all consolidated into a single, user-friendly interface. While the official release of the Rex app is scheduled for the second quarter of 2025, early beta testers will be granted privileged access to explore and utilize the app’s features before the the general public launch.

The Drop’s companion app (Kickstarter)

The Drop: Where style meets functionality

The Drop is designed for both functionality and style. It can be worn as a pin or pendant using a magnetic clasp or premium leather band. Weighing just 27.6 grams, it’s lightweight and comfortable enough for all-day wear. Available in three colors — metallic blue, matte black and gold — it’s as sleek as it is practical.

The Drop in three colors (Kickstarter)

Technical specifications

The Drop packs impressive technology into its small frame. Its dual-core 32-bit processor operates at an efficient 240 MHz, providing robust performance for advanced nutrition tracking. The device features comprehensive wireless connectivity, including a complete 2.4GHz Wi-Fi subsystem and Bluetooth 5.0 for seamless data transmission and device integration.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

A high-resolution 4K camera serves as the primary sensor for capturing meal images, complemented by an integrated microphone for additional functionality. The memory configuration includes 8MB of PSRAM and Flash storage with an onboard SD card slot supporting up to 32GB of expandable memory, ensuring ample space for data storage and processing.

Kickstarter campaign and rewards

The Drop is launching through a Kickstarter campaign that offers exclusive rewards to early backers. For a pledge of $199, supporters will receive The Drop device, which comes with a lifetime subscription to Rex Premium, the companion app valued at $19.99 per month.

This subscription provides access to advanced features and personalized nutrition insights. Early backers will also enjoy the privilege of beta testing, gaining access to The Drop and its features before the general public release. Each backer’s package will include The Drop device, a premium leather band, a magnetic pin clasp and a USB-C charging cable. The campaign anticipates shipping the Drop to backers by the fourth quarter of 2025.

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A woman wearing The Drop (Kickstarter)

Kurt’s key takeaways

With its advanced AI-powered technology and seamless integration with Rex Premium, The Drop eliminates the stress of manual logging while providing accurate insights into your diet. Whether you’re looking to optimize your health or develop better eating habits, The Drop offers an effortless solution tailored to modern lifestyles. By supporting its Kickstarter campaign, you’ll not only gain access to this cutting-edge device but also join a community dedicated to transforming how we understand and manage our nutrition. With its official release planned for the fourth quarter of 2025, The Drop promises to redefine the future of health technology — one meal at a time.

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

Would you be willing to try a device like The Drop to simplify your nutrition tracking or do you prefer sticking with traditional methods? What factors influence your decision? Let us know 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

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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Rubbing beef fat on your face is new viral skincare trend: ‘Bigger than ever’

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December 22, 2024

AIRPLANE PASSENGERS GO VIRAL FOR MID-FLIGHT BEAUTY ROUTINES: DERMATOLOGISTS WEIGH IN

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Rubbing beef fat on your face is one of the newest skincare fads.

Beef tallow is currently trending on social media as an alternative to traditional skincare products.

The simple-ingredient balms are made from the fat surrounding the kidneys of cows and processed into a butter that can be used as a moisturizer.

While many might turn up their noses to using an animal-based product on the face, natural skincare company Hearth and Homestead in Virginia sold out of its tallow balm product on Black Friday.

Lily Wilmoth, the company’s founder and president, spoke with Fox News Digital in an on-camera interview about the skyrocketing demand for beef tallow.

Hearth and Homestead founder Lily Wilmoth is pictured with her husband and five children. “The biggest product for us has always been our tallow-based skincare products,” she told Fox News Digital. (Hearth and Homestead)

“It’s bigger than ever,” she said. “The biggest product for us has always been our tallow-based skincare products.”

How is beef tallow made?

Wilmoth revealed that her tallow balm is made from 100% grass-fed beef suet, or the fat that encases a cow’s kidney, which is sourced from farms across the country.

The fat is harvested, ground into a butter consistency and blended with an herb-infused olive oil before being melted, whipped, cooled and jarred, she said.

‘I’M A PHARMACIST, AND I WOULDN’T TAKE THESE 3 VITAMIN SUPPLEMENTS’

“It’s not the back fat or other types of fat that you might find on your steak,” Wilmoth said. “It’s a very specific fat … our ancestors recognized that this fat was special.”

“It has a higher amount of nutrients than all the other fats in the animal,” she went on. “It’s very creamy and white in texture. It doesn’t have a weird smell or taste.”

This specific fat is where nutrients, including vitamins D and A, are stored, according to Wilmoth.

Potential benefits for the skin

“Our skin is an organ,” Wilmoth said. “That’s why it’s so important that anything we put on our skin should be something we’re really thinking about carefully.”

Some moisturizers on the market have a “long list of complex ingredients, preservatives, emulsifiers … fragrances and dyes,” which could worsen skin conditions like eczema and acne, she cautioned.

Tallow balm is recommended as a moisturizer at the end of a skincare routine, after washing with a simple, all-natural soap. (Hearth and Homestead)

“Tallow balm, which is oil-based, doesn’t need preservatives because it doesn’t contain water,” she said. “It’s not going to disrupt the natural skin barrier.”

While tallow balm is “not a healing remedy” and each person’s skin will react to it differently, Wilmoth noted that many customers say it helps with conditions like acne and psoriasis.

“It has a higher amount of nutrients than all the other fats in the animal.”

Dr. Brendan Camp, a New York-based dermatologist, agreed that beef tallow is “generally well-tolerated” by most skin types.

He confirmed that beef tallow acts as a moisturizer to help “trap water into the skin” and make it feel “smooth and soft.”

For the skeptics who may think using fat on the face can be pore-clogging, one expert noted that tallow’s fatty acid profile is “similar to our own skin’s make-up.” (Hearth and Homestead)

“As an emollient, beef tallow fills in cracks and crevices in the skin that contribute to a rough texture,” he said to Fox News Digital.

Beef tallow also contains omega-3 fatty acids and various vitamins, Camp noted, which help maintain the health of the skin barrier and protect it from “oxidative stress.”

Not ideal for everyone

Wilmoth admitted that she “cannot guarantee that every single person is going to see amazing results with tallow,” as every person’s microbiome is different.

“Depending on your particular skin type, you may find that something else works better for you,” she said.

People with oily skin may find beef tallow products to be “too heavy or greasy,” Camp cautioned.

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“If you have sensitive skin, you may want to consider doing a patch test on the inside of your arm prior to using it more liberally on the skin,” he recommended.

For those who opt not to use beef tallow, Camp suggested trying other basic moisturizers that are free of fragrances and dyes and that contain hydrating ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid and squalane.

One dermatologist warned that beef tallow could cause inflammation for some people. (iStock)

He also noted that, like most over-the-counter supplements, beef tallow products are not FDA-regulated.

In a video posted to Instagram and shared with Fox News Digital, Dr. Tiina Meder — a cosmetic safety expert, dermatologist and founder of Meder Beauty in London — questioned the hype around tallow balm.

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Meder, who grew up in Estonia in the 1970s, shared that her mother applied beef tallow to her face and hands in the cold winters because there weren’t any other options.

“It was the only thing to protect children’s faces and hands from cold burn,” she said.

One expert warned that some of the lipids found in beef tallow can be pro-inflammatory for humans and can “sensitize the skin.” (iStock)

But Meder wondered why people would choose not to take advantage of the variety of creams and moisturizers available today that are “better than beef tallow.”

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“Beef tallow is not bioidentical,” she said. “Beef tallow lipids have very little in common with lipids of the human skin.”

“Depending on your particular skin type, you may find that something else works better for you.”

Linoleic acid, which is found in human sebum glands, is particularly essential for skin health, Meder noted, as it’s an anti-inflammatory antioxidant and also promotes viscosity — but beef tallow doesn’t contain any.

Meder added that other lipids found in beef tallow can be pro-inflammatory for humans and can “sensitize the skin.”

“It is simply not right to apply beef tallow on the skin when you have such a huge choice,” she said.

Rare wartime papers, officer’s wallet donated by his descendants to Museum of the American Revolution

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December 22, 2024

FLORIDA ARTIST’S PATRIOTIC ANDY WARHOL PIECE FEATURED AT POPULAR EVENT DRAWING THOUSANDS OF VISITORS

Rare artifacts belonging to an officer in the German Regiment of the Continental Army have been donated to the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia.

A wallet made by Continental Army Lt. Samuel Gerock gives a first-hand account of the battles of Trenton and Princeton as well as lesser-known battles, according to the museum’s press release.

The wallet is made from the animal skin drumhead of a drum carried by his regiment detailed with ink inscriptions containing a pocket-sized almanac and wartime papers inside the wallet.

An animal akin wallet and wartime papers belonging to Continental Army Officer Samuel Gerock have been donated to the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia. (Museum of the American Revolution)

Gerock lived in Baltimore, Maryland, before settling in New Bern, North Carolina, after the war.

“His papers not only showcase new information about the Revolutionary War, but they help to reveal the various ways veterans proved their service afterward in order to receive financial assistance,” said Matthew Skic, the museum’s senior curator.

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“Gerock’s testimony, paired with the fact that these documents survive, is rare and historically valuable.”

A wallet made by Officer Samuel Gerock gives a first-hand account of the battles of Trenton and Princeton as well as lesser-known battles. (Museum of the American Revolution)

In his pocket almanac, Gerock sketched the Battle of Spanktown that took place near Woodbridge, New Jersey, Feb. 23, 1777.

Gerock brought these items to a courthouse in 1818 to apply for financial assistance from the federal government for his Revolutionary War service.

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The artifacts were in possession of Gerock’s descendants, and his great-great-great-granddaughter, Nanette Reid Osborne, donated the items in honor of her mother.

The Museum of the American Revolution is located in Philadelphia. (Jumping Rocks/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

“I didn’t know that people would find them interesting, but they do, and I’m just really happy that we were able to donate them to the museum so as many people as possible can see and learn from them,” said Osborne, according to the release.

“I’ve always felt like these objects shouldn’t be stuck in a drawer somewhere.”

The artifacts are on display at the museum in the second-floor Oneida Indian Nation Atrium.

Wedding stories from 2024 turned heads and got people talking

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December 21, 2024

REDDIT USER WHO REFUSES TO HELP ‘OBESE COUSIN’ AT WEDDING IS NOT WRONG, THERAPIST INSISTS

As 2024 winds down and Americans look forward to all that is set to happen in 2025, here’s a look at some wild wedding stories that made people laugh, cry and even cover their mouths in shock over the past year.

Brides, grooms, wedding party members and others shared their personal stories — while etiquette experts and others weighed in with professional opinions and advice.

There were plenty of tales to pick from, but here are five over the past year that stood out.

Which one takes the cake for most surprising of them all?

1. Couple charged guests to attend wedding day

A couple tied the knot in New York City on June 24, 2023, but their unusual wedding-day choices did not go viral until more than a year later.

Kareem (“Reemo”) and Nova Styles charged guests $333 each to attend the “wedding experience,” which amounted to a full day of activities throughout the city, as they described in their video.

A couple shown standing in front of the bus above charged guests $333 each to attend the “wedding experience” in New York City. (REEM Photography)

The two pared down their guest list to just 60 people.

“They chose us,” said Nova Styles in a TikTok video. “They ‘hashtag’ trusted the process by purchasing a ticket to attend our wedding.”

WEDDING DAY-DILEMMA HAUNTS BRIDE AS SHE WONDERS ABOUT ‘WEIRD OR NON-PROFESSIONAL’ INVITES

After the wedding ceremony, the guests went to Hudson Yards, a movie theater and One World Trade Center for dancing, food and merriment – with photo shoots occurring along the way, Nova Styles said in the videos.

2. Betrayed bride made lemonade out of lemons

An anonymous woman in the Bay Area found herself with a nonrefundable wedding reception venue and a called-off wedding – so she did the next best thing.

She donated the venue to Parents Helping Parents (PHP), an organization that provides support to children and adults with special needs, as well as their families.

“The family of the bride shared that our agency, Parents Helping Parents, provided services for the family in support of the bride’s sibling, who has special needs,” said Maria Daane, executive director of PHP.

Parents Helping Parents wedding reception

A bride in California donated her wedding reception venue to a charity that helps children and adults with special needs, as well as their families. The group held a “Ball for All.” (Parents Helping Parents)

PHP decided to use the already paid-for space to host “a party for people with disabilities 0 to 100,” Fox News Digital previously reported.

The party, dubbed the “Ball for All,” was complete with food, music, dancing, and a photo booth.

FOOD AND MARRIAGE? NEWLYWEDS SNAP WEDDING PIX IN GROCERY-STORE AISLE

Daane said she got a phone call from the family of the bride two weeks before the scheduled wedding.

PHP moved quickly. Within three days, the event was planned down to the catering, said Daane.

Parents Helping Parents reception desserts

Attendees were treated to a night of dancing and food. (Parents Helping Parents)

“I imagine weddings are canceled now and then, but never have I heard of one turned into a community party for those with disabilities and their families,” Daane said.

“It makes me feel grateful for the resilience and kindness of people — that this bride could do something so generous and thoughtful in the face of her own sadness is inspiring,” she added.

3. Father of the bride forgot something very important

An amusing story from England showed that mistakes can happen to anyone – even on one of the most important days of someone’s life.

WEDDING GUESTS CAN LEAVE EARLY ON ONE CONDITION, ACCORDING TO AN ETIQUETTE EXPERT

Neil Crossley, dad of daughter Amy Totty, who was married in Yorkshire, England, in 2024, had an embarrassing moment captured on film.

At Totty’s wedding, Crossley started walking down the aisle toward the altar — without his daughter.

Neil Crossley, pictured here, started walking down the aisle without his daughter in an accidental moment caught on video. (SWNS)

He said there was a “miscommunication,” and he thought that he had been instructed to begin walking.

Crossley eventually turned around, fetched his daughter, and proceeded on a much more traditional march down the aisle.

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Guests can be heard on video laughing at the awkward moment, which Crossley said he later referenced in his father-of-the-bride speech.

His daughter particularly got a kick out of the whole mix-up.

Crossley walked his daughter Amy Totty, pictured here, down the aisle on his second attempt. (SWNS)

“I especially appreciated it as I was trying very hard not to cry, and he helped me compose myself,” Totty said.

She added, “It was a special moment none of us will forget.”

4. Hungry wedding guest took matters into own hands

A Reddit user who was kicked out of a wedding reception after he drunkenly ordered pizzas to replenish the depleted buffet got the last laugh after he revealed the bride’s father apologized and planned a replacement party.

“AITA for ordering pizza at my friend’s wedding because there was no food?” asked user “Adorable_Distance_15” in a post on the “r/AITAH” subreddit, an advice forum.

A very hungry wedding guest was kicked out of a reception after he ordered pizzas because the bride’s family ate all the food at the buffet. (iStock)

In the post, the man said he and his wife recently attended his friend’s wedding, which had about 70 guests, “mostly family.”

The bride’s family, however, ate all the food at the buffet before all the guests could go for their first plates.

“To my surprise, by the time we were called, there was nothing left,” he wrote.

Adorable_Distance_15 and other hungry guests then ordered four large pizzas and some chicken wings to the venue.

“Now you have the nerve to ask us to share.”

As the pizzas ran out, the trouble began. A man, who turned out to be the bride’s father, asked if he could have one of the remaining two slices.

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“I then took the two slices, I put them on my plate and started to eat them, then looked at him and said something like, ‘No, you and everyone at your tables had way more than your fair share of the buffet and ate all of it. This is the reason we ordered food in the first place. And now you have the nerve to ask us to share,’” he wrote.

A Reddit user (not pictured) said there would be another party planned to make up for the botched reception. (iStock)

These comments got the man kicked out of the reception — but after emotions cooled, the father-of-the-bride apologized.

To make up for the wedding reception issues, the father-in-law planned to throw an “after-wedding shindig” for everyone who was at the original wedding, plus other people, said the Reddit poster

5. Bride and groom put their guests to work

A couple who informed their wedding guests they would be put to work on the special day had their actions described as “tacky, tacky, tacky” by a horrified Reddit user.

Earlier this year, Reddit user “joyousfoodie” posted about her cousin’s upcoming wedding, which she described as a “semi-destination wedding” that would be relatively small.

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While the woman said she was fine with both the location and size of the wedding, several aspects of the upcoming wedding did concern her.

“I just found out that the wedding couple are sending ‘cards’ to people [who] are not invited that they are getting married soon and ‘you are in our hearts on this special day’ before the wedding,” she wrote.

“Their excuse is for the sake of ‘curiosity and thinking of them,'” joyousfoodie wrote, “but what I don’t understand is why send this before the wedding?”

The action that prompted the Reddit post, however, was a text from the couple stating that “everyone has a role to help set up.”

The couple texted, “Everyone has a role to help set up.”

“Once the ceremony is done, the wedding party will leave to take photos while the guests set up the tables for the reception,” said the woman in her text.

The couple never asked guests if they would be willing to help out and “just dictated [to] people what to do,” the Reddit poster said.

The couple claimed they could not afford to hire help to set up at their wedding, but the Reddit poster said the couple “went traveling” instead of saving up for their big day.

Other Reddit users told “joyousfoodie” to skip the affair altogether.

“That’s when you decide you are sick and do not go. They are being horrible hosts, and frankly, it’s gross,” user “byteme747” said.

Another Reddit user was a bit more blunt. “The only reason I’d go to this is morbid curiosity,” wrote “Obrina98.”

Christine Rousselle is a lifestyle reporter with Fox News Digital.

Controversy plagued UN agency that employed Oct. 7 terrorists facing new problems as country redirects funding

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December 21, 2024

I SRAEL TO CLOSE EMBASSY IN IRELAND OVER ‘ANTI-ISRAEL POLICIES’

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Pressure is building on the controversial U.N. agency UNRWA over its alleged and extensive ties with terror leaders that has propelled hatred for Israel and support for terror through its curricula. Even as 159 countries in the U.N. General Assembly voted in favor of a resolution affirming to “fully support” UNRWA, last week, Sweden announced on Friday that it has decided to end funding to UNRWA due to a ban placed on the agency by the Israeli government and will redirect Gaza aid to other organizations.

Yet, while the U.N. continues to show solidarity with UNRWA, two informed sources confirmed to Fox News Digital that in spite of the vocal solidarity, there is dissension among the ranks.

One U.N. source explained that “several agencies have had behind-the-scenes discussions” about who might “take over and run” UNRWA programming. “One of the main and most notable agencies doing so is the United Nations Development Programme,” the source claimed.

“The UNDP has come forward and said that they can take over from UNRWA to advance peace,” the source said. They noted that U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres “shot those requests down,” leading to an “internal conflict.” The source elaborated that recent events “show that there are elements of the U.N. that recognize the challenges and clear issues with UNRWA,” but that “even as other agencies are ringing the alarm bells,” their “offers are being shot down at the highest levels” of the U.N.

A man walks in front of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) building in Gaza City, Gaza, on January 30, 2023. (Photo by Ali Jadallah/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

Israel Hayom newspaper also reported that Guterres has passed over the UNDP’s offer to take on increased work in the Palestinian territories. The newsaper quoted “fundamental opposition” from the Secretary-General to the UNDP’s “willingness to take on significant areas of responsibility, such as fuel distribution, waste removal and rubble clearance.” It also reported that “preparations are already underway among international aid organizations, led by UNDP, to expand their activities in the Strip.”

Fox News Digital asked Guterres’ spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, about Guterres’ position on the UNDP’s offer to take on UNRWA’s work and inquired about Guterres’ thoughts on recent reports of the agency’s leadership’s ties to terrorists and its difficulties raising funds after news arose that some UNRWA members had participated in the terror attacks of Oct. 7.

Displaced Palestinians ordered by the Israeli military to evacuate the northern part of Gaza flee amid an Israeli military operation, in Jabalia in the northern Gaza Strip, October 22, 2024. (Reuters/Dawoud Abu Alkas)

Dujarric told Fox News Digital that “many different U.N. agencies have a role to play, and are playing a role, in humanitarian and development support to the Palestinian people.” He reiterated that, “as we’ve said many times before, no other agency in the U.N. system can replace UNRWA given the scope of its work, notable in health and education. All U.N. agencies, including UNDP, have the same position.”

Dujarric explained that Guterres “will continue to do his utmost to work for an end to this conflict, the unconditional and immediate release of all hostages held by Hamas and other Palestinian groups in Gaza, and for full humanitarian access in Gaza. There are also needs to be a restoration of a political horizon for a two-state solution for the sake of Israelis and Palestinians.”

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini looks on during a press conference in Geneva on January 24, 2023. (Fabrice Coffrin/AFP via Getty Images)

Fox News Digital asked the UNDP whether it had proposed that it could take on UNRWA’s role and asked how seamless that transfer could be and whether a UNDP-led effort might create an atmosphere in which peace and a two-state solution could be reached.

A UNDP spokesperson said that the “UNDP does not propose, nor does it support, being an alternative to UNRWA. UNDP’s position on UNRWA’s irreplaceability is aligned with the U.N. Secretary General’s and is a matter of public record.”

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A World Food Programme truck being loaded to deliver aid into Gaza. (United Nations via Reuters Connect)

The spokesperson also sent a statement standing by Guterres’ statement that UNRWA is the “principal means” for supporting Palestinian refugees and that “there is no alternative to UNRWA.”

The “irreplaceability” of UNRWA has been questioned, including by senior fellow at the Tel Aviv Institute Hen Mazzig, who recently stated on X that only 13% of aid to the Palestinian people is distributed by UNRWA.

Fox News Digital asked UNRWA to confirm this figure. A spokesperson from the agency said that since October 2023, the agency “has provided over 6.8 million primary health care consultations,” claiming it represented “60% of primary healthcare consultations currently provided in the Gaza Strip.” The spokesperson also stated that UNRWA provides “50% of the food security response,” and “assisted hundred of thousands of people with essential mental health and psychosocial support services,” as well as providing “essential logistical and infrastructure support to the entire humanitarian system.”

WFP delivers thousands of food packages, sacks of flour and water to the Beit Hanoun area in coordination with COGAT.

Fox News Digital asked the Israel Defense Forces about the role UNRWA plays in relation to other humanitarian groups coordinating aid in Gaza. A security official said the agency is a “weak player,” compared with entities like World Food Program, World Central Kitchen, UNICEF, the World Health Organization, and American Near East Refugee Aid (ANERA), which “play a more central role.” The official said that these agencies “have their own logistical chains and can work independently from UNRWA.”

UNRWA’s fundraising ability has decreased since credible information emerged showing that members of UNRWA had infiltrated Israel on Oct. 7, 2023. The U.S. had provided $121 million to UNRWA between October 2023 and January 2024, but then cut funding to the agency through March 2025.

World Food Programme (WFP) aid at the Erez west crossing on the Israel-Gaza border. (IDF spokesman)

The UNDP is unhindered by these issues and provides a variety of services in the region. A UNDP spokesperson told Fox News Digital that UNDP has funded about a third of its Programme of Assistance to the Palestinian People’s $270 million Gaza Emergency Response and Early Recovery Programme.

The spokesperson told Fox News Digital that “as a lead development agency within the UN system, UNDP works closely with our sister humanitarian agencies to embed early recovery efforts – such as rehabilitating crucial infrastructure and cash-for work programs – into emergency responses.”

“In contexts such as the occupied Palestinian territory, Lebanon, and Syria, we have carried out a variety of early recovery initiatives tailored to specific needs and conditions on the ground,” the spokesperson continued.” This has entailed “working with local partners to deliver a range of activities including debris removal from roads to facilitate access to critical services, working closely with local service providers and the private sector to restore essential services such as solid waste management, supporting the rehabilitation and expansion of water supply networks to increase access to clean water, and has implemented solar-powered energy systems. We also strengthen government capacities on emergency response and recovery planning and support vocational training programmes for women.”

UN ACCUSED OF DOWNPLAYING HAMAS TERRORISTS’ USE OF GAZA HOSPITALS AS NEW REPORT IGNORES IMPORTANT DETAILS

Hillel Neuer, Executive Director of U.N. Watch, told Fox News Digital that aside from UNRWA, there “are several agencies on the ground who are doing significant work in distributing humanitarian aid.”

“Around the world, when there is a crisis of some kind,” Neuer said that “you get a whole cluster of U.N. agencies,” including the World Health Organization, World Food Programme, UNICEF … and UNDP, which combine forces to “distribute aid to millions of people.” Neuer said that “the notion that is put forward that for some reason a tiny strip of land on the Gaza Strip is the only place in the world where those agencies cannot operate” is “absurd and false.”

FILE: 11/06/2022: Palestinian employees from the UNDP in Gaza. (Ahmed Zakot/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

UN Watch has raised the ire of UNRWA by beginning to release a 150-page dossier showing URNWA leaders meeting with representatives of terror groups. Though UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini referred to the reports as “disinformation,” Neuer explained that UNRWA simply “cannot handle the truth.” Neuer said that UN Watch assembled its dossier by screenshotting data and photographs that were “hidden in plain sight” on the internet and social media.” He added that more of UN Watch’s dossier is set to emerge the coming week.

The U.S. was among nine nations to dissent from the General Assembly’s resolution in support of UNRWA.

Ambassador Robert Wood, the alternative representative for special political affairs, explained the dissension on Dec. 11, both noting that while URNWA is a “critical lifeline,” the “resolution on UNRWA operations also has serious flaws.” Wood cited how the proposal fails “to create a path forward for restoring trust between Israel and UNRWA,” and that the resolution “denigrates Israel’s actions in Gaza without addressing the central reason for them, namely Hamas’ unprovoked October 7 attack and the terrorist group’s deplorable behavior in the interim.”

Photos released by the Israeli Defense Force show three individuals the Israeli military claims are Hamas combatants inside the UNRWA compound in Rafah. (IDF)

“More than 14 months into this conflict, some delegations here in New York cannot bring themselves to acknowledge — let alone condemn — Hamas’ role in instigating a conflict that has visited so much pain, suffering, and anguish on the people of Gaza,” Wood wrote, adding that “we deeply regret that the drafters chose to try to score political points, rather than pursue a resolution which could have provided unanimous support to UNRWA, addressed credible allegations about the activities of some of its personnel, and ultimately bolsters UNRWA’s vital humanitarian mission.”

The IDF and ISA eliminated Hamas Nukhba commander, Mohammad Abu Itiwi. He was involved in the murder and abduction of Israeli civilians on October 7th. Itiwi worked for UNRWA, according to the Israelis. (IDF Spokesman’s Unit)

While voting on UNRWA’s future, the General Assembly did note the issues with the agency, explaining that URNWA needed to implement the recommendations set by an independent reviewer and that there must be “immediate efforts” to address UNRWA’s “financial and operational crises.”

The General Assembly also emphasized that it “strongly warns against any attempts to dismantle or diminish the operations and mandate of the Agency,” noting the humanitarian consequences that millions of Palestinians would face if its work were interrupted or suspended.

In an effort to assert the primacy of his organization despite snowballing evidence that its members have hindered efforts to create peace in the region, UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini penned an op-ed imagining the possibly “dystopian” outcome of a decision to dismantle UNRWA. Supposing that a two-state solution hinges on the agency’s continued operations, Lazzarini urged that “we still have a window of opportunity to avert a cataclysmic future where firepower and propaganda construct the global order.”

U.N. Watch’s Neuer disagreed, noting “UNRWA is an arsonist masquerading as a firefighter,” he said. “Only by ending this terror-infested agency with the pathological aim of perpetuating hatred, resentment and dependency, can Palestinians move forward to a future of hope and peace.”

Do you need a VPN at home? Here are 10 reasons you do

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December 21, 2024

GET SECURITY ALERTS, EXPERT TIPS — SIGN UP FOR KURT’S NEWSLETTER — THE CYBERGUY REPORT HERE

Have you ever felt a little uneasy while browsing the internet, wondering who might be watching your online activities?

Well, let me introduce you to a handy tool that can put your mind at ease: the virtual private network, or VPN.

Whether you’re working from home, streaming your favorite shows or just exploring the web, a VPN can help ensure that your data stays secure and your privacy intact. So, let’s dive into why having a VPN at home is a smart move.

A VPN on a laptop. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What is a VPN?

A virtual private network, or VPN, encrypts your internet traffic and reroutes it through a server in a different location than your own. VPNs make it appear that you are connecting to the internet from whichever location the server is hosted in rather than your actual location.

When you first connect to a network using a VPN, your device will establish a secure connection with the VPN server, and your device’s IP address will appear as the VPN server, meaning that only your internet service provider will see that you’re connecting to a VPN server. Normally, when you connect to a website, the website or any online services you visit can see your device’s technical information, including location-sensitive data such as IP addresses.

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Why would you want a VPN at home?

While your home internet connection is more secure than a public Wi-Fi connection, VPNs still provide a greater sense of privacy and access to content that might be restricted due to location. Here are 10 reasons I have for getting a home VPN.

1. Secure communication

Online communication can be hit or miss when it comes to security. Some messaging services, such as Whatsapp, use end-to-end device encryption, which helps keep your messages secure, but other messaging services, such as Skype, don’t use end-to-end encryption. If you use a VPN with any communication apps, then all your connection and messaging data between your device and the VPN server is fully encrypted.

A VPN on a smartphone. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

2. Access region-locked content

Online content and services like Netflix are restricted to specific geographic regions. This content can range from news websites to video streaming platforms and social media apps. Using a VPN at home can appear to be using the internet from another location, allowing you to access restricted services.

3. Avoid bandwidth throttling

Sometimes, an internet service provider (ISP) will slow down bandwidth or certain online activities. One of the most common reasons networks do this is to manage network congestion, especially during peak hours. You might notice that your home internet connection slows down at night, when everyone is home from work, or it might slow down when summer vacation starts. Using a VPN will prevent your service provider from identifying the type of web content you are accessing, making it impossible for your ISP to slow down your traffic.

4. Keep your Wi-Fi activity hidden

A VPN also keeps your internet activity private from Wi-Fi network admins, who, if technically skilled enough, can figure out which websites you’ve visited. If you’re worried about the Wi-Fi admin of your office, hotel, school or other public place having access to your browsing history, a VPN is the perfect solution for you. When it comes to your own home Wi-Fi network, a VPN will keep your browsing history private from other household members.

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5. Defend against cyberattacks

Hackers deploy large-scale cyberattacks to observe network activity and steal your information. These attacks are particularly prevalent on public Wi-Fi networks, which often have minimal security measures, but they can also target secured networks. Using a VPN can significantly enhance your security by providing encryption for your internet traffic, making it difficult for hackers to intercept and read your data. This encryption is especially crucial when using public Wi-Fi, as it secures your information from potential eavesdroppers.

Additionally, a VPN masks your real IP address with that of the VPN server, helping to protect your identity online and making it harder for attackers to target you directly. However, it is essential to understand that while a VPN adds a layer of security, it is not a comprehensive solution against all cyber threats.

A VPN does not prevent malware infections or phishing attacks, so you must still employ strong antivirus software and exercise caution when clicking on links or downloading files. Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

Furthermore, not all VPNs are created equal; some may have vulnerabilities or questionable privacy practices. It is crucial to choose a reputable provider that uses strong encryption and has a clear no-logging policy.

6. Fight against internet censorship

There’s a myriad of reasons, ranging from political to economic, that countries use to justify censoring certain apps and websites. It can be incredibly frustrating for citizens and anyone traveling to that country to lose access to email, social media, news websites and other tools that keep us connected to the world around us. I’ve used VPNs extensively while traveling to ensure that I can always view my most important websites, no matter where I actually am. As I’ve mentioned, a VPN can mask your IP address and make it appear as traffic from a different country, allowing you to bypass online geographic restrictions.

7. Save money by avoiding geographic price changes

One of the best reasons to have a VPN at home is that it can help you save money and find better deals while online shopping. Some online retailers change their prices depending on users’ locations. However, when using a VPN while shopping for plane tickets, hotels or gifts, it’s possible to find cheaper prices just by changing your location.

8. Keep your online activity private from governments

It’s no longer the work of sci-fi. We do know that governments, nearly all of them, surveil their citizens. A VPN will add a layer of privacy, making it significantly more difficult for governments to detect your web traffic. Even if you feel that you have nothing to hide, online privacy is something you should feel free to exercise.

9. Hide your browsing history from your ISP

Much like governments, your ISP can surveil your online activity with ease. While most ISPs claim that they don’t sell your browsing data, they are often allowed through contracts with marketing agencies to give your data away for free to advertise to you. The simplest way to hide your online activity from your ISP is to use a VPN. When using a VPN, your ISP won’t be able to see which websites you visit or which apps you use.

Image of a Google search on a laptop (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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10. Experience speedy low-ping online gaming

While it may seem counterintuitive, a VPN can offer faster connection speeds for online gaming. It can also help prevent your ISP from throttling bandwidth directly from gaming servers. By changing your VPN’s location, you can connect to a server closer to your gaming server, which will give you better latency. This is also called ping, which determines how fast the server responds to your inputs.

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Tips for maximizing your VPN security

To fully leverage the benefits of your VPN and enhance your online security, consider these important tips that will help protect your personal information and ensure safe browsing.

1. Choose a reliable VPN: Select a reputable VPN service with strong encryption protocols. 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.

2. Always use VPN on public Wi-Fi: Never access financial accounts on public networks without activating your VPN first.

3. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Add an extra layer of security to your accounts by enabling 2FA.

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4. Use strong, unique passwords: Create complex passwords for each of your accounts and consider using a password manager. Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords.

5. Regularly monitor your accounts: Check your retirement accounts frequently for any suspicious activity.

6. Keep software updated: Ensure your devices and apps are always up-to-date with the latest security patches.

7. Be cautious of phishing scams while using a VPN: Even with a VPN securing your connection, phishing scams remain a significant threat to your online safety. These scams often use deceptive emails or links to steal sensitive information like passwords or credit card numbers. To protect yourself, combine the use of a VPN with strong antivirus software that detects and blocks phishing attempts. Additionally, always scrutinize unsolicited emails, avoid clicking on suspicious links, and never provide personal information without verifying the source. For the best protection, check out my expert reviews of the top 2024 antivirus solutions for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices. Together with a VPN, this approach helps keep your personal information and digital assets safe.

Kurt’s key takeaways

If you want to start taking your online privacy seriously, it’s worth getting a VPN. There are a wide range of options available. You can pick up a router with a VPN or install a software VPN on your devices. I prefer to have a VPN on my laptop and smartphone, and I especially find it useful when traveling internationally.