Febal Casa Enters U.S. Market with Flagship Store Opening in Miami and Outposts in Scottsdale, AZ and Orange County, CA

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November 21, 2024

I’M GIVING AWAY A $500 GIFT CARD FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Imagine walking through a park on a sunny day, only to feel the sharp sting of fire ants attacking your ankles.

These tiny invaders are not just a nuisance; they pose significant threats to our ecosystems and economies. Fortunately, scientists have developed an innovative solution to combat these pests: robot dogs.

These high-tech canines are being trained to sniff out invasive fire ants, using artificial intelligence to identify their nests with remarkable precision. This breakthrough could change the way we manage invasive species and protect our environment.

CyberDog designed to locate fire ant nests (Dr Hualong Qiu, Guangdong Academy of Forestry)

A high-tech ant hunter

Researchers from China and Brazil have created a robotic dog known as CyberDog, specifically designed to locate fire ant nests. This high-tech robot has been trained to identify red imported fire ants, which are wreaking havoc in various ecosystems around the globe. Impressively, the CyberDog is capable of finding three times more nests than human inspectors, all while showing off greater accuracy.

CyberDog designed to locate fire ant nests (Dr Hualong Qiu, Guangdong Academy of Forestry)

ROBOT DOG IS MAKING WAVES WITH ITS UNDERWATER SKILLS

Why fire ants are such a big deal

Red imported fire ants may be small, but their impact is anything but trivial. Native to central South America, these aggressive ants have spread across the United States, Australia and parts of Asia, causing extensive environmental and economic damage. In the U.S. alone, they are responsible for an estimated $6 billion in losses each year due to reduced crop yields and damage to farm equipment.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

CyberDog designed to locate fire ant nests (Dr Hualong Qiu, Guangdong Academy of Forestry)

REMEMBER THAT ROBOT DOG? IT’S BACK WITH A ‘WHEELY’ COOL UPGRADE

How the CyberDog works its magic

Published in the SCI journal Pest Management Science, the study showcases how the CyberDog robot, equipped with an AI model, can efficiently automate the identification and control of red imported fire ants, a notoriously destructive global pest. The research team trained the CyberDog using a comprehensive dataset of over 1,100 images of fire ant nests, resulting in an impressive detection accuracy rate of over 90%.

The robot is programmed to poke suspected nests with its paw; when it does so, active nests release their workers in a defensive frenzy, confirming the presence of fire ants. This unique method allows researchers to distinguish between active mounds and those that may be abandoned or occupied by other species.

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CyberDog designed to locate fire ant nests (Dr Hualong Qiu, Guangdong Academy of Forestry)

CRAZY STRONG ROBOTIC DOGS GEAR UP FOR MOON MISSION

More than just ant control

Beyond its practical applications in pest management, the CyberDog also serves an educational purpose. Zheng Yan, one of the researchers involved in the project, emphasizes that sightings of robots tracking fire ant nests can captivate public interest and raise awareness about the dangers posed by invasive species. By engaging communities in this way, scientists hope to foster greater understanding and proactive measures against these ecological threats.

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CyberDog designed to locate fire ant nests (Dr Hualong Qiu, Guangdong Academy of Forestry)

Challenges and future prospects

Despite its impressive capabilities, the CyberDog is not without challenges. Its battery life currently lasts about 30 minutes, which limits its operational time in the field. Additionally, acquiring more advanced models can be costly. However, as technology continues to evolve and production costs decrease, it’s likely that robotic solutions like this will become more accessible for widespread use in pest control.

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CyberDog designed to locate fire ant nests (Dr Hualong Qiu, Guangdong Academy of Forestry)

Kurt’s key takeaways

The development of the CyberDog shows us how technology can be harnessed to tackle ecological challenges in innovative ways that benefit both nature and society. As we confront increasing threats from invasive species worldwide, AI-powered robots could become our new allies in protecting ecosystems.

Would you welcome robot dogs patrolling your local park for fire ants? Or does the idea of AI-powered pest control make you feel uneasy? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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

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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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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Dementia risk could be linked to walking speed, study suggests

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November 21, 2024

ALZHEIMER’S PATIENT, 90, SAYS SKIING AND OTHER ACTIVITIES KEEP HIM MENTALLY SHARP

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A slower walking pace could be a sign of cognitive decline or dementia, a new study suggests.

Researchers assessed more than 16,800 healthy people over the age of 65 in the U.S. and Australia during a seven-year period (2010 to 2017), according to the published study in JAMA Network Open.

The investigators measured participants’ walking speed and performed cognitive tests every two years.

Those who demonstrated a decrease in walking speed by at least 2 inches per second a year — along with slower cognitive ability — had a higher risk of dementia, as compared to individuals considered to be “non-decliners, cognitive-only decliners or gait-only decliners,” according to the report.

A slower walking pace could be a sign of cognitive decline or dementia, a new study suggests. (iStock)

“The combination of declining memory and slowing gait seems to be a stronger indicator of future dementia risk than decline in one of those things alone,” Dr. Taya A. Collyer, PhD, who led the study out of Monash University in Australia, told Fox News Digital.

Family members often comment that their loved one had changed prior to a dementia diagnosis, according to Dr. Amy Brodtmann, a neurologist and professor of the Cognitive Health Initiative at Monash University in Australia.

SLEEPY DURING THE DAY? IT COULD BE AN EARLY WARNING SIGN OF DEMENTIA, STUDY SUGGESTS

“There has long been an assumption that a slowdown – of walking, thinking and actions – is a sign not just of aging, but of developing cognitive impairment and dementia,” she told Fox News Digital.

‘Simple to measure’

The researchers suggested that measurement of walking speeds could be a useful tool – combined with other screening measures – to help identify individuals who are at risk of developing dementia and ensure that they receive early testing and preventive interventions.

“We don’t yet have a definitive test for dementia that family doctors can do in their own clinics,” noted Brodtmann, one of the co-authors of the study.

People who have challenges with balance and mobility may consider using an assistive device to ensure safe and consistent walking. (iStock)

Walking speed is very “simple to measure,” Collyer added.

“Our study also suggests that family doctors might keep an eye on walking speed when they (or their patients) have concerns about dementia,” she said.

DEMENTIA RISK COULD BE HIGHER FOR OLDER ADULTS WHO EXPERIENCE THIS TYPE OF INJURY, STUDY FINDS

The manner in which a person walks, also known as the gait pattern, could help signal a potential issue, according to Edward Farrell, a physical therapist and certified strength specialist at Physical Solutions Physical Therapy and Fitness on Long Island, New York.

“Our gait pattern and speed requires reflexive planning, adjustments to surfaces, and focus and attention, which are often impaired with cognitive diseases,” Farrell, who was not involved with the study, told Fox News Digital.

Other risk factors

Courtney Kloske, PhD, director of scientific engagement for the Alzheimer’s Association in Chicago, Illinois, noted the importance of exploring other factors that may impact risk in diverse populations.

These risk factors include genetics, health conditions such as hypertension, health-related behaviors like physical activity and diet, and environmental elements, such as air pollution.

“Up to 45% of dementia cases could be delayed or prevented by adopting healthy lifestyle factors.”

“While not all factors are modifiable, research shows that up to 45% of dementia cases could be delayed or prevented by adopting healthy lifestyle factors,” Kloske, who was not involved in the study, told Fox News Digital, citing the 2024 Lancet Commission, a collaborative report from leading dementia experts.

The manner in which a person walks, also known as the gait pattern, could help signal a potential issue, according to experts. (iStock)

The study highlights the benefits of adopting healthy lifestyle behaviors early and consistently, including helping to prevent or postpone the onset of cognitive decline, according to Kloske.

She recommends adhering to a healthy diet, maintaining a regular exercise routine, controlling diabetes and blood pressure, and staying socially engaged.

Step into health

Working to improve one’s walking stride is also important for overall health, according to Farrell.

“The ability to maintain a more normal gait stimulates our systems, allowing greater mobility, more independence and reduced fall risk,” he told Fox News Digital.

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Farrell recommends taking frequent walks at various paces, with intervals of moderate to faster speeds, to improve reflexes. Certain exercises also support walking speed and pattern, he noted.

“Regular strength training like squats, step-ups, bridges and leg lifts can keep our foundational muscles strong as we age,” he advised.

“Stretching to keep hamstrings, hip flexors and calf muscles limber allows for more free mobility to walk.”

Mature man lifting dumbells at fitness gym

“Regular strength training … can keep our foundational muscles strong as we age,” an expert advised. (iStock)

Performing balance exercises like heel-toe walking, single leg stance drills and Tai chi can also improve stability and confidence with walking, Farrell noted.

For those who plan to start a walking program, it’s best to wear supportive sneakers that provide a stable base and cushioned comfort, the expert added.

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People who have challenges with balance and mobility may consider using an assistive device like a cane to ensure safe and consistent walking.

It is important to consult with a health care provider prior to starting a exercise regimen, experts agree.

New travel trend has Americans chasing fountain of youth

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November 21, 2024

HOT TRAVEL TREND HAS PEOPLE HUNTING FOR VINTAGE TREASURES ON VACATION

A new report from Booking.com provides insight to the top travel trends for next year, with many travelers going beyond sightseeing.

The annual travel predictions report for 2025 highlights the “passport to longevity” trend.

“Vacations in 2025 will go beyond relaxation, evolving into life-enhancing journeys focused on health and well-being,” Booking.com’s website says.

Fifty-two percent of American travelers say they are willing to pay for vacations “designed solely to extend their lifespan and improve their overall health,” according to Booking.com.

Fifty-seven percent of travelers are seeking vacations to “extend their lifespan” and improve their health. (iStock)

Ben Harrell, U.S. managing director at Booking.com, told Fox News Digital via email he sees vacations evolving into something more for travelers than just a time to relax.

“[For] American travelers willing to pay for vacations designed to improve their overall health and even extend their lifespan, the travel industry is stepping up to offer transformative experiences, like cryotherapy, body vibration, red light treatments and stem cell therapies in order to help people find peace of mind and body that lasts even beyond the last days of the vacation,” said Harrell.

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Booking.com sees longevity retreats leading with 49% of Americans expressing interest in “programs that replace temporary fixes with deeper revitalization,” the website says.

Travelers seeking experience to extend lifespans

Booking.com’s annual travel predictions report for 2025 highlights the “passport to longevity” trend. (iStock)

Fifty-seven percent of travelers are looking for wellness practices they can take home, such as learning about timed coffee ingestion and exploring IV therapy.

“In 2025, the journey won’t end when the trip does; it will carry forward as a path to a longer, healthier life,” added Harrell.

ANGLER LANDS MASSIVE FISH IN MINNESOTA, REVEALS FAVORITE US SPOTS WHERE YOU CAN REEL IN MONSTERS

Travelers going on vacation in hopes to achieve fountain of youth

Booking.com released its annual travel predictions list for 2025. (iStock)

Booking.com’s report revealed destinations that could fit into the “passport longevity” trend.

The online travel agency suggests Tromsø, Norway, and San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, as top spots to seek experiences that might boost longevity.

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Ben Harrell, U.S. managing director at Booking.com, told Fox News Digital he sees vacations evolving into something more for travelers than just a time to relax. (iStock)

A Booking.com representative told Fox News Digital these locations “stand out for their pristine natural environment and outdoor activities.”

In Tromsø, travelers can seek rejuvenation through a floating sauna that overlooks an Arctic Cathedral in Pust.

As for San Pedro de Atacama, travelers can enjoy Laguna Cejar and Puritama Hot Springs.

“Both of these locations are wellness-focused, aligning with the goals of longevity retreats,” said Harrell.

Wellness routine for longevity, plus RFK’s health warning and bird flu in the US

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November 21, 2024

Fox News’ Health newsletter brings you stories on the latest developments in health care, wellness, diseases, mental health and more.

TOP 3:

– A doctor in Michigan reveals his wellness routine for a longer and healthier life

– As RFK Jr. sets out to improve nutrition for American children, Dr. Marc Siegel comments on the challenges ahead

– Bird flu is ‘getting worse’ across the country as cases rise, according to experts

“We have a generation of kids who are swimming around in a toxic soup right now,” Kennedy previously told Fox News. “We’re letting these industries corrupt our agencies and mass poison them.” (iStock)

MORE IN HEALTH

DOUBLE-DUTY DRUGS – Ozempic and other diabetes and weight-loss medications were found to have an unexpected benefit. Continue reading…

SICK AT SEA – Hot tubs on cruise ships were blamed for outbreaks of Legionnaires’ disease. Continue reading…

This article was written by Fox News staff.

Rare ‘doomsday fish,’ spotted by California woman who was walking along beach

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November 20, 2024

ANGLER LANDS MASSIVE FISH IN MINNESOTA, REVEALS FAVORITE US SPOTS WHERE YOU CAN REEL IN MONSTERS

A California woman was walking her dog on Grandview Beach in Encinitas when she came across a very rare, deep-sea fish.

Alison Laferriere, who happens to be a PhD candidate at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University in San Diego, said she identified the “doomsday fish” knowing it was a “rare occurrence.”

The oarfish, also known as a “doomsday fish,” measures roughly 9-to-10 feet long.

“As I got closer, I recognized what it was immediately, since I had seen pictures of the one found earlier this year,” said Laferriere to Fox News Digital via email.

Some believe the fish “foreshadows natural disasters, such as earthquakes or tsunamis,” according to the Ocean Conservancy. (Alison Laferriere/Scripps Institution of Oceanography)

Encinitas, California, was recently named one of the 20 best surfing towns in the world, according to National Geographic.

The city is located along six miles of the Pacific Ocean coastline, according to a San Diego government site.

In August, a group spotted a 12-foot, dead oarfish while snorkeling in La Jolla, California.

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“Several people on the beach also recognized what it was, although there were a couple of surfers who attempted to take it to put it in their friend’s van,” said Laferriere.

Twenty-two oarfish have been reported in California since 1901, according to the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UC San Diego. (Alison Laferriere/Scripps Institution of Oceanography)

She added, “I explained the situation to them, and thankfully they decided to leave it.”

The oarfish is commonly referred to as the “doomsday fish,” as some believe it “foreshadows natural disasters, such as earthquakes or tsunamis,” according to the Ocean Conservancy.

Ben Frable, Scripps Oceanography Marine Vertebrate Collection manager, said in a statement that the increased spotting of oarfish off the coast may have to do with a change in the ocean conditions.

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“Many researchers have suggested this as to why deep-water fish strand on beaches. Sometimes it may be linked to broader shifts such as the El Niño and La Niña cycle but this is not always the case,” said Frable.

Scripps Institution of Oceanography advises anyone who believes they have encountered an oarfish to alert lifeguards. (Alison Laferriere/Scripps Institution of Oceanography)

Now 22 oarfish have been reported in California since 1901, according to the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UC San Diego.

He added, “There was a weak El Niño earlier this year. This wash-up coincided with the recent red tide and Santa Ana winds last week, but many variables could lead to these strandings.”

Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla advises anyone who believes they have encountered an oarfish to alert lifeguards and to contact them.

Biden admin vetoes UN Security Council draft resolution against Israel that would ’embolden Hamas’

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November 20, 2024

HOW A US-BACKED UN RESOLUTION FAILED TO STOP HEZBOLLAH TERROR TAKEOVER: ‘BIPARTISAN FAILURE’

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After growing calls from members of Congress and pro-Israel voices, the Biden administration vetoed a draft resolution against the Jewish state at the United Nations Security Council on Wednesday.

The U.N. Security Council voted 14-1 in favor of the resolution sponsored by the 10 non-permanent members on the 15-member council, but it was not adopted because of the U.S. veto.

U.S. Ambassador Robert A. Wood issued a scathing indictment of the draft resolution that favored the U.S.-designated terrorist movement, Hamas, over the release of more than 100 hostages, including seven Americans held by the jihadi organization in Gaza. Wood also took many of the council members to task for seeking a “cynical” outcome and “path of discord.”

U.N. Ambassador Robert Wood votes against and vetoes a draft resolution on Israel at the U.N. Security Council on Nov. 20, 2024. (UNTV)

Wood said some members of the council wanted the U.S. to veto the resolution, implying the states preferred to stoke a clash rather than secure the freedom of the hostages.

Sitting in for Ambassador Linda-Thomas-Greenfield, he said the draft’s demand for “an unconditional cease-fire with Hamas means this council accepts Hamas retaining power in Gaza. The United States will never accept this.” He termed the resolution as a way to “embolden Hamas.”

The palpable frustration of the U.S. ambassador was repeatedly expressed, stating America “worked for weeks to avoid this outcome” and “could not support [an] unconditional cease-fire that failed to release hostages.”

Children look at photographs of kidnapped Israelis during a rally joined by hundreds in solidarity with Israel and those held hostage in Gaza, in Bucharest, Romania, on Nov. 2, 2023. (AP Photo/Vadim Ghirda, File)

According to the resolution, which was overseen by Algeria, the measure sought for an “immediate, unconditional and permanent cease-fire” to be imposed on Israel. The resolution did not guarantee the release of the hostages.

“This resolution would have sent a dangerous message to Hamas. There is no need to come back to the negotiating table. Hamas would have seen it as a vindication of cynical strategy,” noted Wood.

UN, ISRAEL AT ODDS OVER CAUSE OF DECLINE IN AID DELIVERIES: ‘FALSE NARRATIVES BY INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY’

He stressed that Hamas wants the international community to forget about the hostages from more than 20 member states who have been held for 410 days. Wood cited Hamas’ bad faith negotiation strategy.

“Hamas has rejected deal after deal after deal. Some members of this council, in their public statements, ignore the callous intransigence of Hamas and indeed, fail to condemn Hamas, “he said.

The proposed resolution omitted any criticism of the terrorist organization Hamas, which slaughtered nearly 1,200 people on Oct. 7, 2023. Hamas murdered more than 40 Americans on that day.

Palestinian terrorists of the al-Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of the Hamas movement, take part in a military parade to mark the anniversary of the 2014 war with Israel, near the border in the central Gaza Strip on July 19, 2023. ( MAHMUD HAMS/AFP via Getty Images)

Wood noted that some members do not want to confront the reality that “It is not Israel standing in the way of the cease-fire. It is Hamas.” He added that some members of the council would not recognize that Hamas instigated the war against Israel.

Following Wood’s speech, French Ambassador Nicolas de Rivière thanked the sponsors of the draft and noted France “deeply regrets that it was not adopted today.”

He warned that “The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip is disastrous, and it continues to worsen day by day. International humanitarian law is being trampled underfoot. Against this background, the only response would have been, and remains, an immediate and permanent cease-fire.”

A security council meeting at United Nations headquarters in New York City on Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2024. ( Yuki Iwamura/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

On Monday, Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, warned that “This resolution is just one of several assaults on Israel being planned at the United Nations, meant to preemptively and permanently undermine the incoming Trump administration and Republican Congress.”

Cruz told Fox News Digital that “I will work with my Republican colleagues and with President Trump to take whatever steps are necessary to undo these measures, including fundamentally reevaluating our relationship with the U.N. and the Palestinians, broadly cutting aid, imposing sanctions on specific officials responsible for those measures, and countering governments and NGOs pushing or implementing them.”

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Delta, Hawaiian and other airlines that offer flight discounts or refunds in event of family death

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November 20, 2024

ACTRESS BOARDS PLANE WITH HEAD LICE, TRIGGERS SOCIAL MEDIA FIRESTORM: WHAT TO KNOW

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Booking travel can be stressful, but when dealing with the loss of a loved one, arranging bereavement plans could make matters worse.

When it comes to flying to a destination in the event of an unfortunate occasion, some airlines help alleviate the stress by offering discounted fares.

Discounts and policies differ by airline, each offering various rates and particular requirements.

See below for a list of at least three airlines that offer bereavement fares.

Delta, Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines all offer some sort of bereavement fares. (iStock)

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines offers a 10% discount off the lowest available fare if travel is within the next seven days.

In order to purchase a discounted ticket, travelers must purchase the flight over the phone and be an immediate family member and it does not apply to cousins or other in-law relatives, Alaska Airlines’ website says.

The airline does not specify if documentation of the death is needed. The discount cannot be offered after travel has begun and the “reduced rate isn’t intended for medical or emergency travel,” according to the site.

THE FOUR ‘DREADED’ LETTERS ON AIRLINE BOARDING PASSES THAT TRAVELERS SAY THEY NEVER WANT TO SEE

Delta Air Lines

Delta Air Lines’ bereavement policy is only offered to SkyMiles members and does not have a set discount, varying in price, according to Delta’s website.

Travelers must message a representative through their “Help Center” page and cannot be purchased directly on Delta’s website.

Delta requires the traveler to be an immediate family member of the deceased, and all spouse-related relationships apply to a domestic partner. To be eligible, documentation is required showing the deceased person’s name, customer’s relationship to the deceased, name and phone number of the funeral home, hospital, or hospice and name of a doctor (if applicable).

U.S. carriers, American, JetBlue and United do not offer bereavement fares, but some airlines do offer ticket refunds. (iStock)

Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines only offers bereavement fares for travel inside the state of Hawaii between islands. “For urgent travel to or from cities outside Hawaii, including North America and International routes, we do not offer bereavement fares,” the airline’s website states.

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However, the airline does accept bereavement waiver requests for travelers who change his or her reservation due to the death of a family member.

The following documents must be submitted through their portal: death certificate copy, proof of relationship (birth certificate or marriage certificate) and a copy of the airline ticket.

Some airlines that offer bereavement fares require documentation to prove a death in your family. (iStock)

Airlines that do not offer bereavement fares

On the American Airlines customer service website it says, “We’re sorry, we don’t offer emergency or bereavement fares.”

Southwest Airlines’ site has a similar message: “Southwest does not offer bereavement or emergency fares.”

“While we do not offer bereavement fares, everyday low fares are available at Southwest.com,” a representative from Southwest told Fox News Digital via email.

“Every ticket purchased comes with the ability to change or cancel their trip with no penalties as long as it’s canceled up to 10 minutes prior to departure time. “Additionally, every traveler can check up to two bags for free (size and weight limits apply).”

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While some airlines do not offer bereavement fares specifically, ticket refunds or travel changes are available in the event of a death.

American Airlines’ site says, “Tickets may be considered for refund in the event of the death of the customer, immediate family or traveling companion. American requires proof of relationship for immediate family member.”

United also has a refund policy listed online, which mentions similar circumstances.

JetBlue’s website does not mention bereavement fares, but the airline will consider a cancelation fee waiver in the event there’s “a death of an immediate family member of a ticketed customer,” the airline’s website says.

For assistance, contact your airline’s refunds department.

Fox News Digital reached out to Alaska, Delta, Hawaiian, JetBlue, American and United Airlines for comment.

Fox News AI Newsletter: Chatbot’s disturbing message

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November 20, 2024

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A Google Gemini user reported a shocking answer. (Tobias Schwarz/AFP/Jonathan Raa/NurPhoto/David Paul Morris/Getty Images )

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

IN TODAY’S NEWSLETTER:

– Google AI chatbot tells user to ‘please die’
– Ben Affleck is confident AI cannot replace Hollywood movies for this reason
– Donald Trump will be very good for AI: Jeff Sica

‘PLEASE DIE’: Google’s AI chatbot Gemini is at the center of another controversy after a user reported a shocking answer in a conversation about challenges aging adults face. A graduate student in Michigan was told “please die” by the artificial intelligence chatbot, CBS News first reported.

(Marilla Sicilia/Archivio Marilla Sicilia/Mondadori Portfolio via Getty Images)

‘LAST TO GO’ Ben Affleck is getting a lot of attention for his views on artifical intelligence. Last week, the actor spoke at CNBC’s Delivering Alpha 2024 investor summit, taking time to share his thoughts on how AI will affect the entertainment industry. “Movies will be one of the last things, if everything gets replaced, to be replaced by AI,” he explained.

(Omar Marques/SOPA Images/LightRocket/CHARLY TRIBALLEAU/AFP)

HERE COMES THE BOOM: Circle Squared Alternative Investments founder Jeff Sica explains how President-elect Donald Trump policies will aid the construction of A.I data centers on ‘Varney & Co.’

Forerunner K2 humanoid robot (Shanghai Kepler Robotics Co., Ltd)

CHINESE STRENGTH: China’s Shanghai Kepler Robotics is making waves in the world of humanoid robotics with its innovative Forerunner series. Its latest humanoid robot, the Forerunner K2, has quickly become a hot topic, showcasing Kepler’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what robots can do.

Subscribe now to get the Fox News Artificial Intelligence Newsletter in your inbox.

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This article was written by Fox News staff.

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How your browser is spying on you: Hidden dangers lurking behind every click

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November 20, 2024

I’M GIVING AWAY A $500 GIFT CARD FOR THE HOLIDAYS

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A browser is one of the most popular apps we use. It’s the gateway between the internet and its users, translating raw code into something we perceive as a web page and allowing us to interact with the web. It’s safe to say that anyone who uses the internet uses a web browser.

But while this tool is extremely useful, it can also be equally dangerous. For example, clicking malicious links can redirect you to harmful websites that either steal personal information or infect your device with malware.

If you use a search engine like Google through Chrome, it can collect data on your searches, browsing history and even your location (if location services are enabled). Most browsers also use cookies, small files that store information about your online behavior. Let’s discuss the risks associated with web browsers and how to stay safe.

A person conducting a Google search on their laptop (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

How a browser doubles as spyware

Browsers are much more than simple tools to navigate the web. They are, in many ways, tools for surveillance. While they help you access websites and services, they also track your every move online to feed the ever-hungry advertising industry.

First off, most browsers collect data about your searches, browsing habits and even your location. This data isn’t just stored to “improve your experience,” it’s used to create a detailed profile of you, which is then shared with advertisers who target you with personalized ads.

Google Chrome, for example, is notorious for tracking your activity. As you browse, it feeds data to Google’s advertising engine, allowing it to serve highly targeted ads based on your behavior. This includes everything from your search history to the websites you visit, even down to the smallest detail, like how long you stay on a page.

“Google may share information about you with advertisers, business partners, sponsors, and other third parties,” Google boldly mentions on its privacy policy page.

Browsers also use cookies to keep tabs on you. These cookies track your activity across different sites, even after you’ve left a site. This means that ads you saw on one website might follow you across others, creating a persistent digital footprint. And while cookies can be blocked or deleted, many websites rely on them to function, making it hard to escape this kind of tracking.

Google browser (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

MASSIVE SECURITY FLAW PUTS MOST POPULAR BROWSERS AT RISK ON MAC

Even Incognito mode isn’t safe

Even if you’re using privacy-focused browsers or tools like Incognito mode, they don’t really guarantee privacy. A 2020 class-action lawsuit revealed that Google kept scraping searches by gathering data from users browsing in Incognito through ad tools used by websites, picking up “potentially embarrassing” searches from millions of people. Google then used that data to track web traffic and sell ads.

It’s not just Google. Your internet service provider, the websites you visit and even governments can monitor your browsing activity, even in Incognito mode. All it does is hide your activity from your local browser history.

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A person conducting a Google search on their laptop (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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How to protect your privacy

As you all know, web browsers are essential tools for accessing the internet, but many popular options compromise your privacy by collecting extensive data. While Google Chrome is widely used, it tracks significant amounts of user information to power targeted advertising. However, there are several privacy-focused browser alternatives that prioritize user data protection. Also, to enhance your online security and protect your personal information, consider implementing these essential cybersecurity practices.

Keep software updated: Regularly update your operating system, browsers and other software to patch security vulnerabilities. Enable automatic updates whenever possible to ensure you’re always protected against the latest threats.

Use strong, unique passwords: Create complex passwords for each of your accounts and avoid reusing them. Consider using a password manager to generate and securely store strong passwords.

Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Activate 2FA on all accounts that offer it. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification beyond your password.

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Be cautious with emails and links: Avoid opening suspicious emails or clicking on unknown links. These could be phishing attempts designed to steal your information or infect your device with malware. The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

Use secure networks: When using public Wi-Fi, connect through a VPN to encrypt your internet traffic. For sensitive transactions, stick to secure, private networks.

Be mindful of social media sharing: Limit the personal information you share on social media platforms and adjust your privacy settings to control who can view your posts.

VPN: Your first line of defense against browser spying: A VPN (virtual private network) encrypts your internet connection, making it difficult for anyone, including your browser, to track your online activities. By masking your IP address and routing your traffic through secure servers, a VPN not only protects your personal data from prying eyes but also helps you avoid targeted advertising and potential data breaches.

Regardless of whether you are new to VPNs or not, you’ll want to choose trusted VPN providers known for robust encryption and no-log policies to ensure your privacy. Whether for sensitive tasks or everyday use, reputable VPN services will boost both your security and speed. 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.

By implementing these security practices and using privacy-focused browsers, you can significantly enhance your online safety and protect your personal data while browsing the web. Remember, cybersecurity is an ongoing process that requires vigilance and regular updates to your practices.

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Kurt’s key takeaway

The web browser is an essential tool for accessing the internet, but it also opens the door to a host of privacy and security risks. Whether it’s being tracked for ads, snooped on by your ISP or accidentally stumbling onto a malware-filled site, the risks are everywhere. Tools like Incognito mode or cookie-blocking can help a bit, but they’re not enough to truly protect you. If you’re serious about staying private and secure, you need to up your game. Use a VPN, be cautious about what you click on and stay informed about the ways your browser might be working against you.