Charting a New Course: The Impact of Surmount Acquiring Quantbase with $20M in Managed Assets

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September 25, 2024

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Illegal movie sites are not the best places to visit on the internet. The fact that they are illegal should tell you that. While the legal consequences of pirating content are a big concern, you also risk getting malware, and not just any malware. Security researchers have identified a type of malware targeting illegal movie downloaders, known as Peaklight, classified as next-stage malware.

Its ultimate goal is to infect Windows systems with information stealers and loaders. Below, you’ll find more details about Peaklight, along with tips to stay protected.

Illegal movie downloads could be hiding dangerous new malware

A person about to watch a movie on their laptop (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What is Peaklight

Peaklight is a new type of malware that works only in your computer’s memory and doesn’t leave a trace on your hard drive. It’s designed to secretly download other harmful software, according to Mandiant, a cybersecurity company owned by Google.

“This memory-only dropper decrypts and executes a PowerShell-based downloader,” Mandiant said. “This PowerShell-based downloader is being tracked as PEAKLIGHT.”

Mandiant explains that Peaklight uses a hidden PowerShell script to download more malware. Some of the dangerous programs spread this way include Lumma Stealer, Hijack Loader and CryptBot, which are sold as services that hackers can rent to steal information or control computers.

A woman watching movies on her laptop (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

HACKED, SCAMMED, EXPOSED: WHY YOU’RE ONE STEP AWAY FROM DISASTER ONLINE

How does it infect your computer?

The attack starts when someone downloads a Windows shortcut file (LNK), often while searching for pirated movies. These files are hidden inside ZIP folders that pretend to be movie downloads.

When the LNK file is opened, it connects to a content delivery network (CDN) that hides harmful JavaScript code, which runs only in your computer’s memory. This code then runs a PowerShell script called PEAKLIGHT, which connects to a remote server to download more harmful software.

Peaklight is designed to run entirely in your computer’s memory, which makes it much harder for antivirus software to detect. Since it doesn’t leave traces on storage, the antivirus would need to scan the memory (RAM) to catch it.

“PEAKLIGHT is an obfuscated PowerShell-based downloader that is part of a multi-stage execution chain that checks for the presence of ZIP archives in hard-coded file paths,” Mandiant researchers Aaron Lee and Praveeth D’Souza said.

“If the archives do not exist, the downloader will reach out to a CDN site and download the remotely hosted archive file and save it to disk.”

Illustration of a scammer using malware (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

PHARMA GIANT’S DATA BREACH EXPOSES PATIENTS’ SENSITIVE INFORMATION

6 ways to protect yourself from malware

1) Avoid downloading pirated content: Stick to legal platforms for movies, music and software. Pirated sites are high risk because they often disguise malware as legitimate content. Even searching for a movie on search engines can lead you to dangerous sites that trigger drive-by downloads.

2) Keep your operating system and software updated: Regularly update your Windows OS, antivirus software, browsers and other applications. Security patches are released to fix vulnerabilities that malware like Peaklight can exploit. Enabling automatic updates is the best way to stay ahead of these threats.

3) Use strong antivirus software: A strong antivirus program is your first line of defense. Choose one that includes real-time scanning, memory scanning and behavioral analysis. Many modern antiviruses scan not only files but also your computer’s memory (RAM), which is where Peaklight hides.

The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

4) Be cautious of suspicious links and files: Don’t click on unknown links, especially if they offer free movies, games or other attractive content. Similarly, avoid downloading files from untrusted websites, even if they seem to be harmless ZIP folders.

5) Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication: Secure your online accounts by using strong, unique passwords for each account and enabling two-factor authentication. This ensures that even if some malware like information stealers try to grab your login data, they can’t access your accounts without the extra verification step. You can also use a password manager to generate and store your passwords securely.

6) Be wary of compressed files (ZIP, RAR): Compressed files are a common method for hiding malware. Even if they appear to be pirated movies, they could contain LNK files or other malicious scripts. Always scan these files with your antivirus before opening them.

HERE’S WHAT RUTHLESS HACKERS STOLE FROM 110 MILLION AT&T CUSTOMERS

Kurt’s key takeaway

The idea of pirating content can be tempting. With so many streaming services and subscriptions out there, it’s impossible to have them all, which makes piracy seem like an option worth considering. But it’s better to pay up or watch something else. You don’t want your computer to be infected by malware and risk losing your money and personal data.

Have you ever been tempted to use illegal streaming or download sites? What stopped you (or didn’t)? 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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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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Detroit’s ‘most wanted,’ sought for sex crimes, captured in Washington state after police chase

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September 25, 2024

WASHINGTON STATE 1-YEAR-OLD ORPHANED AFTER PREGNANT MOM, DAD, BOTH FOUND DEAD ON HAWAII VACATION

A fugitive sex offender dubbed Detroit’s “most wanted” since 2018 was taken into custody in Burien, Washington state, on Tuesday following a pursuit by law enforcement.

Cory Alan Olson, who was using various aliases while on the run, had been evading law enforcement while living in the area in Washington before he was nabbed by King County Sheriff’s detectives, according to Fox 13.

Olson had been using the name “Randall,” which matched the name of a person in Kansas, whose identity was compromised while Olson was working temporary jobs in Washington state. Kansas authorities notified Washington state officials after the individual in Kansas was questioned about unpaid taxes on income earned elsewhere, leading to further investigation.

“I love the find me puzzle,” Detective Riley Myklebust, who played a key role in Olson’s capture, told Fox 13.

Cory Alan Olson has been Detroit’s “most wanted” since 2018. (King County Sheriff’s Office)

Myklebust said he ran into significant challenges while investigating identity theft cases.

“After about a week of looking through 10 plus addresses, years of records, I couldn’t figure out who this guy was, and that was a hint, because usually I can figure it out,” he said.

Olson was discovered by detectives as he was stepping into his car at a new job in Burien. Police attempted to stop him when Olson pushed a sergeant and drove away. But he was captured a short time later by Myklebust, who had been pursuing him in a minivan.

Fingerprints confirmed Olson’s identity, although he still refused to admit who he was.

Cory Alan Olson was using various aliases while on the run. (iStock)

“What did he say? He wouldn’t give it up,” Myklebust said.

Olson’s criminal history includes the sexual assault of a teenage girl and evading arrest by injuring a deputy in a car crash. He then moved to Washington state, where he was charged for another sexual assault against a person with special needs.

During his arraignment for identity theft, criminal impersonation and multiple counts of forgery, Olson’s attorney sought to protect his identity, which was granted by the court, Fox 13 reported.

MACKLEMORE DECLARES ‘F— AMERICA’ TO CHEERS AT SEATTLE CONCERT BENEFITING UN AGENCY WITH HAMAS TIES

Fingerprints confirmed Olson’s identity, although he still refused to admit who he was. (iStock)

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Police have highlighted the importance of public recognition due to a history of repeated sexual offenses. Olsen often went to karaoke bars and presented himself as a wealthy investor with a military background and often targeted women with teenage daughters, according to Fox 13.

Detectives noted his presence in several communities, including Issaquah, downtown Seattle, Puyallup and Olympia, the outlet reported. They said he used several names in addition to Randall, including Josiah, Payton and Nikko, with the last names Arb or Cadaa.

Anyone who has been a victim of Olson’s is urged to contact police.

Amid Brett Favre’s Parkinson’s diagnosis, neurologist discusses how concussions impact risk

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September 24, 2024

NFL LEGEND BRETT FAVRE ANNOUNCES HE HAS PARKINSON’S DISEASE

Football legend Brett Favre, 54, announced on Tuesday that he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

The NFL Hall of Famer referenced the diagnosis while speaking at a congressional hearing on federal welfare reform, during which he mentioned his investment in a company making a “breakthrough concussion drug.”

Favre, who spent 16 of his 20 NFL seasons with the Green Bay Packers, has openly discussed experiencing “thousands” of concussions over the course of his football career.

What is Parkinson’s?

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement, leading to tremors, stiffness, slow gait, balance issues and other symptoms.

Former NFL quarterback Brett Favre testifies before the House Ways and Means Committee at the Longworth House Office Building on Sept. 24, 2024 in Washington, D.C. (Getty Images)

Non-motor symptoms can include depression, anxiety, hallucinations, apathy, sleep disorders, loss of smell, digestive issues and orthostatic hypotension (a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up), according to the Parkinson’s Foundation.

Nearly one million people are living with the disease in the U.S., and a projected 1.2 million will have received diagnoses by 2030.

PARKINSON’S DISEASE RISK IS LINKED TO GUT HEALTH, RESEARCHERS SAY

There is no one known cause of Parkinson’s disease, but there are factors that could increase risk. For most cases of the disease, the cause is unknown.

A person who is diagnosed without cause has what is called idiopathic Parkinson’s disease, according to Healthline.

Quarterback Brett Favre #4 of the Green Bay Packers looks on from the sideline during a game against the Cleveland Browns at Cleveland Municipal Stadium on Nov. 19, 1995, in Cleveland, Ohio. (Getty Images)

The risk increases with age, but about 4% of patients are diagnosed before turning 50.

Men are at a higher risk, and are 1.5 times more likely to be diagnosed than women, per the Foundation.

While there is no cure for PD, patients can sometimes manage their symptoms with medications, surgery and lifestyle changes.

THE EFFECTS OF PARKINSON’S DISEASE ON THE BRAIN AND COMMON WAYS THOSE IMPACTED SUBDUE SYMPTOMS

The main medication used to relieve Parkinson’s symptoms is levodopa, which helps to replenish dopamine in the brain, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Some people are also prescribed dopamine agonists, enzyme inhibitors, amantadine and anticholinergic drugs, the source stated.

Symptoms or progression of the disease can be worse for athletes who have experienced concussions or other head injuries, a neurologist confirmed. (iStock)

A healthy diet, exercise, massage therapy and physical, occupational and speech therapies can also help with symptoms related to Parkinson’s disease.

While Parkinson’s is not directly fatal, complications of the disease are rated as the 14th cause of death in the country, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The concussion connection

Dr. Joey Gee, a neurologist with Providence Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo, California, said it is well-established that many neurological disorders — predominantly neurodegenerative disorders — can worsen or develop as a result of numerous head traumas and injuries over time.

“This can include everything from Alzheimer’s disease to Lou Gehrig’s disease, but a lot of emphasis has been on the development of Parkinson’s disease,” Gee told Fox News Digital.

“We know that persistent trauma to the brain can cause inflammatory changes and vascular disturbances.”

“We know that persistent trauma to the brain can cause inflammatory changes and vascular disturbances.”

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In relation to Parkinson’s disease, it can cause a disruption of an inflammatory protein called alpha-synuclein, he said.

In people with Parkinson’s, that protein forms into clumps in the spinal fluid called Lewy bodies, which is a marker of the disease.

Many neurological disorders can worsen or develop as a result of numerous head traumas and injuries over time, a neurologist said. (Getty Images)

“And then you may see early signs or symptoms related to Parkinson’s disease,” the neurologist noted.

Symptoms or progression of the disease can be worse for athletes who have experienced concussions or other head injuries, Gee confirmed.

“A number of scientific reports show that patients who have acquired Parkinson’s-related features from trauma may present earlier and may have more significant symptoms than those with Parkinson’s disease who did not have a head injury,” he told Fox News Digital.

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

“So there is a significant potential for earlier development in symptoms and inflammation of the brain.”

Fox News Digital reached out to Favre’s representatives for comment.

Fox News’ Ryan Morik and Ashlyn Messier contributed reporting.

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.

How much sleep various generations need, tips for getting optimal rest

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September 24, 2024

LACK OF SLEEP COULD BE A FACTOR IN ‘SILENT EPIDEMIC,’ EXPERTS WARN

How much sleep is enough sleep?

It depends on multiple factors. One of the biggest is age.

In general, as you age, less sleep is required. While that may be true, the amount of sleep people need is an individualized experience, and not everyone requires the same amount of rest to properly function throughout the day.

How much sleep a person needs may also not be consistent. For example, if you have a poor night’s sleep one night, you may require more hours of rest the next.

Pregnancy can also affect sleep. Pregnancy can affect quality sleep through physical discomfort, hormone shifts and anxiety, according to the Sleep Foundation.

While adults may not need as much sleep as toddlers, it’s still vital to ensure you are getting enough quality rest each night to properly function when you wake up. (iStock)

While there are a number of factors that play into a good night’s sleep, here are some general guidelines for how much sleep different generations should get and tips for sleeping soundly.

Newborns
Toddlers
Children
Teenagers
Adults

1. Newborns

Newborns require a lot of sleep. A newborn’s sleep schedule requires flexibility from parents because their hours of slumber are often far from consistent.

In general, newborns up to the age of 3 months need between 14 and 17 hours of sleep a day, according to the National Sleep Foundation. This includes naps throughout the day.

Infants from 4 to 11 months old still need between 12 and 15 hours every day.

LACK OF SLEEP POSES CONCERNING RISK FOR KIDS, STUDY FINDS: ‘CRUCIAL ROLE’

Newborns only sleep for an hour or two at a time, so establishing a schedule can be tricky.

Even though it will take time to establish a steady routine with your baby, it’s never too soon to start incorporating healthy habits.

Newborns need a lot of sleep, but they only rest for short periods at a time. (iStock)

For example, establishing a calming routine, putting babies to bed once they begin to get drowsy and giving them time to settle down all contribute to good sleep, according to Mayo Clinic.

Also, remember it’s never too early to begin reading to your baby — which can also become a bedtime routine staple.

2. Toddlers

Toddlers need between 11 and 14 hours of sleep every night, according to the National Sleep Foundation.

6 EXPERT TIPS FOR FIRST-TIME MOMS DURING THE INITIAL FEW MONTHS OF MOTHERHOOD THAT ARE CRITICAL TO HEALTH

At this age, you can really start to establish a bedtime routine with your child through actions like picking out pajamas, brushing teeth and reading a book together.

The time that toddlers go to bed varies for families, but anywhere from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. is a good time to begin thinking about getting to bed, according to Parents.com.

Mom and young son reading a book together

Read a book with your child to help create a calm, relaxing setting before bed. (iStock)

3. Children

Children between 3 and 5 years old should get 10 to 13 hours of sleep per night, according to the National Sleep Foundation — while kids 6 to 13 years old should get nine to 11 hours of sleep every night.

Starting school will help children establish a daily routine.

When kids start school, it’s important to ensure they get to bed at an hour that allows them to get proper sleep before a busy day of learning.

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For school-age children, a bedtime between 7:15 p.m. and 9 p.m. is generally a good idea, per Parents.com.

4. Teenagers

Teenagers don’t need as much sleep as children do.

For teenagers between the ages of 14 and 17, eight to 10 hours of sleep is ideal, according to the National Sleep Foundation.

Many teenagers are busy with extracurricular activities during the school year, which can affect their sleep.

It’s important for teens to try to stick to a consistent bedtime routine, going to sleep and waking up around the same time every day. (iStock)

They could be eating dinner later than normal or may spend time before bed scrolling through their phones, preventing them from getting good sleep.

Trying to limit screen time and going to bed around the same time on a nightly basis can help teenagers get optimal sleep.

5. Adults

Adults need the least sleep of any age group.

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

Adults between ages 18 and 64 should get between seven and nine hours of sleep each night, according to the National Sleep Foundation’s guidance, while those over 65 should get between seven and eight hours of sleep.

If you’re having trouble falling asleep, try to adjust your bedtime routine to include relaxing activities, like listening to calming music or reading a book.

Also, “white noise” could help you to fall asleep, according to the National Sleep Foundation.

A dark, cool room can contribute to a good night’s sleep. (iStock)

You can get “white noise” through a fan or by using a sound machine or a noise app on your phone.

A cool room is another contributor to quality sleep, according to the National Sleep Foundation, with an ideal temperature of between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit.

You can also limit caffeine intake and meals too close to bedtime to prepare your body for a restful sleep.

Ashlyn Messier is a writer for Fox News Digital.

What is ‘rhabdo,’ the muscle injury that affected 12 college lacrosse players?

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September 24, 2024

‘DEAD BUTT SYNDROME’ COULD HAPPEN AFTER SITTING TOO LONG, HERE’S HOW TO AVOID THE CONDITION

After a college lacrosse team reported that several players experienced a severe muscle injury, experts are speaking about the condition.

Tufts University in Massachusetts has launched an investigation after 12 members of the men’s lacrosse team were diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis — a rare, life-threatening muscle injury — following a 45-minute “voluntary, supervised” workout on Sept. 16.

A total of 50 athletes participated in the workout, which was led by a Tufts graduate who had recently completed Navy SEAL training, according to a statement sent to Fox News Digital on Monday.

Nine were hospitalized for the condition.

As of Monday, three of the student athletes remained in the hospital and are “responding to treatment,” Tufts Spokesperson Patrick Collins said in the statement.

What is rhabdomyolysis?

Rhabdomyolysis — often referred to as “rhabdo” — is a rare injury that causes the muscles to break down and disintegrate, according to Cleveland Clinic.

After a college lacrosse team reported the same severe muscle injury across multiple players, experts are speaking about the condition. (iStock)

It usually happens after a prolonged period of “excessive exercise,” trauma (injury), certain medications or an underlying health condition, the clinic noted.

The condition can be life-threatening because the muscle fibers can make their way into the bloodstream and kidneys, potentially causing kidney damage.

“Anyone leading a group or individual into strenuous training should be aware of the signs of dehydration and overexertion.”

Typical symptoms include muscle weakness, stiffness or pain, as well as changes in urine color, per Cleveland Clinic.

OZEMPIC AND WEGOVY COULD LEAD TO MUSCLE LOSS, EXPERTS SAY, BUT PREVENTION IS POSSIBLE

“Rhabdomyolysis can lead to severe organ failure, cardiac arrhythmia or compartment syndrome, which could be fatal,” warned certified personal trainer Regis Pagett, the founder and owner of R Personal Fitness in New York City.

Goalie Conner Garzone #19 of the Tufts University Jumbos gets a save during the Division III Men’s Lacrosse Championship held at Lincoln Financial Field on May 26, 2024, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Getty Images)

IV therapy can be used to flush out toxins from the bloodstream, the expert said, but physical therapy and strength training would be needed to regain the lost muscle.

“It could take anywhere from a few weeks to months depending on the severity of symptoms,” he added.

Why were the athletes affected?

In the statement provided to Fox News Digital, Collins (the Tufts spokesperson) stated that the university is “addressing this matter with the utmost seriousness.”

“The university continues to closely monitor the condition of the team, and some individual team members have been medically cleared to resume training,” Collins said.

“Having qualified coaches oversee intense training is necessary.”

“However, all team practices continue to be postponed until university medical personnel authorize their resumption.”

The university will appoint an independent investigator to “determine exactly what happened before, during and after the workout; assess the university’s response; and review its procedures and policies to determine what changes it should make to prevent this from happening again,” Collins added.

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“Meanwhile, we are closely monitoring the condition of the rest of the team and have postponed all team practice activities until each team member has been evaluated and medically cleared to return to participation.”

The university is unable to provide additional details until the investigation is complete, the statement said.

IV therapy can be used to flush out toxins from the bloodstream, but physical therapy and strength training would be needed to regain the muscle lost, an expert said. (iStock)

As the condition is not contagious, the fact that several of the Tufts lacrosse players were diagnosed “absolutely” suggests that the workout was too strenuous, according to Pagett.

“This is rare in athletes — overall, rhabdomyolysis is something more commonly seen in victims of physical trauma,” he told Fox News Digital.

It is also a “high possibility” that the affected team members were not properly hydrated, Pagett noted.

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

“Anyone leading a group or individual into strenuous training should be aware of the signs of dehydration and overexertion,” he said.

“Sometimes a competitive athlete will push themselves to finish through just about anything, but you have to know when to save the athletes from themselves.”

Tufts University Jumbos celebrate scoring during the Division III Men’s Lacrosse Championship held at Lincoln Financial Field on May 26, 2024, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Getty Images)

To prevent rhabdomyolysis, Pagett emphasized the importance of a “sound workout plan,” adequate hydration and proper post-workout care (nutrition, rest and supplementation).

“Having qualified coaches oversee intense training is necessary,” he added.

“Leveraging people who have completed a training regimen, such as what happened in this case, doesn’t necessarily give them the knowledge needed to properly train others.”

Anyone experiencing symptoms of rhabdomyolysis should seek medical attention immediately.

Fox News’ Paulina Dedaj contributed reporting.

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.

Pint-sized ponies in the U.K. bring joy to those in care homes, other locations

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September 24, 2024

DEMENTIA ADVICE: HERE ARE 16 SAFE THINGS TO SAY TO YOUR LOVED ONE

Pint-sized ponies — as part of a therapy team — are visiting hospitals, schools and care homes, and providing therapeutic cuddles for those in need.

Owner Sarah Woodland, 42, received two mini Shetland ponies in the summer of 2022 from a friend, as SWNS, the British news service, reported. Poppy, 16, and Tinks, 17, stand just 30 inches tall and enjoy being fussed over, the outlet noted.

Woodland started doing private one-on-one enrichment sessions with the pair before deciding to visit a local care home with the animals to encourage residents to connect for a mental health boost.

The session went so well, Woodland decided to make them both therapy ponies.

Providing comfort and interaction for those who need it, she now takes the animals into special schools, hospitals and care homes.

A pony spends some time with a senior citizen. “Seeing and interacting with the ponies is a form of communication for people who may have difficulty talking. It’s almost like a form of love, and it gets people up and moving.” (SWNS)

Woodland runs Dinky Ponies from Oxfordshire.

“It’s the touch and the communication. Seeing and interacting with the ponies is a form of communication for people who may have difficulty talking,” she told SWNS.

“It’s almost like a form of love and it gets people up and moving.“

Before this venture, she worked in human resources in London, and spent years raising her two children, ages 15 and 10, with her husband, Nick, 50, a retired military veteran.

When she reached out to the first care home with her idea, the response was “overwhelming.”

As her children grew older, Woodland found herself with more time and a desire to reconnect with her love for horses, SWNS noted.

HIT THE ROAD: NEW STUDY SUGGESTS TRAVEL COULD DELAY AGING, IMPROVE PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH

She turned to freelance enrichment sessions before stumbling upon the idea of therapeutic pony visits.

Demand for her one-to-one riding lessons dipped during the winter months, so she decided to try a different approach.

With pony therapy, “it’s lovely to see the amazing impact the animals have on people,” said Sarah Woodland (right), owner of Dinky Ponies. (SWNS)

Said Woodland, “You’ll find people say animals are their best friends and [these animals] have a sense of knowing who needs to be comforted — that’s part of the reason I decided to set things up.”

When she reached out to the first care home with her idea in the summer of 2022, the response was “overwhelming,” she said.

“From day one, it went absolute bonkers,” she told SWNS.

People get to meet and stroke the horses.

“It’s totally taken off, and it’s lovely to see the amazing impact the animals have on people. I think it was partially the lingering effects of lockdowns when care homes had limited visitors — so the experience of having the animals in was even more valuable.”

While Dinky Ponies still does the occasional party, Woodland said her focus has shifted primarily to therapy sessions.

During a visit, people get to meet and stroke the horses.

It’s the “profound, often unspoken connection between the ponies and the people they visit” that fuels Woodland’s passion to keep doing it, she said. Woodland is pictured at left during a visit. (SWNS)

It’s the “profound, often unspoken connection between the ponies and the people they visit” that fuels her passion to keep doing it, Woodland said.

“Animals have a special way about them. It’s lots of different things — it’s the empathy and communication,” she told SWNS. “I really do believe they have a sixth sense and an ability to know who needs extra attention.”

“Animals have a special way about them.”

During a recent visit, she said one care home resident was initially very skeptical of the ponies and had a table positioned protectively in front of him in bed.

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

Despite his reluctance, he agreed to meet Poppy — and gradually, his barriers dropped.

“It was really lovely to see it from start to finish. That’s the effect the animals have on people,” she said.

Aside from ponies Poppy and Tinks, Woodland also has Abby, 13, Georgie, 12, Gracie, five, Charm, 12, and Evie, 15. (SWNS)

Woodland has expanded and currently has seven ponies — each one with its niche.

Aside from the ponies Poppy and Tinks, she also has Abby, 13, Georgie, 12, Gracie, five, Charm, 12, and Evie, 15.

She admitted, though, that Poppy is “the superstar.”

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Woodland said, “She just has a natural way of relaxing people and falling asleep in people’s laps!”

“I want to keep doing it for as long as I can as the ponies have such a positive impact on people.”

She’ll choose which pony to take to specific events depending on the needs at each venue.

When visiting a new facility, Woodland typically goes to the venue with one pony to assess the setup.

Woodland will choose which pony to take to specific events depending on the needs at each venue. (SWNS)

The ponies usually work one day a week, which ensures they’re not overburdened or over-petted.

Now, they’re so accustomed to the visits that they are even able to travel up and down in elevators, enabling them to visit children’s wards at hospitals, SWNS reported.

“I want to keep doing it for as long as I can as the ponies have such a positive impact on people,” Woodland said, according to the outlet.

Maureen Mackey is managing editor of lifestyle at Fox News Digital.

Arizona woman shares ‘unpopular airport opinions’ on TikTok: ‘Clearly triggered from flying today’

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September 24, 2024

‘SCREAM TOURISM’ TREND HAS HALLOWEEN FANS AND TRAVELERS FLOCKING TO CREEPY SPOTS ALL YEAR ROUND

A woman recently took to TikTok to reveal what she called some “unpopular opinions” that are sometimes argued by travelers.

Keegan Acton, of Scottsdale, Arizona, shared the video message with her 65,000-plus followers — saying “going to the airport fills me with a type of rage.”

Her most unpopular opinion was that she doesn’t mind a crowded plane aisle after the aircraft lands.

“I always see TikToks of people being like, ‘My God, I can’t stand when people immediately stand up once the plane lands,’ [but] I think there’s nothing wrong with that,” she said in the video, which she captioned, “clearly triggered from flying today.”

A Scottsdale, Arizona, woman’s TikTok video shows her calling out certain types of people at the airport while sharing “unpopular opinions” that are sometimes debated among travelers. (iStock)

She continued, “I don’t think there’s anything wrong with wanting to stand and stretch your legs. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with getting your stuff in the overhead bin and having it ready for when it’s like your turn to exit the plane.”

The content creator also said she believes travelers have more space in the window seat rather than the aisle seat.

WOMAN ON TIKTOK SEARCHES FOR AIRLINE PASSENGER’S FAMILY AFTER FRIENDLY ENCOUNTER ON FLIGHT

“When I have a window seat, I feel like I can… lean against the wall. There’s like a little gap there for me,” she explained, adding, “I just feel like I’m more space on the window side and I like a cool view and some entertainment watching the clouds.”

For travelers who enjoy sitting next to their significant other on a flight, Acton said she doesn’t think that’s necessary.

The woman said she thinks there’s more room offered in the window seat on an airplane. (iStock)

“I do not think that you need to sit next to your significant other on a plane. I feel like what I always see happens is… the husband has the aisle seat, and the wife has to sit in the middle,” she said.

She added, “I don’t think the wife needs to be uncomfortable on the flight [and] sit in the middle just to sit next to her husband.”

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Acton also addressed how she felt about TSA rules and “rude” agents.

Acton alleged that TSA agents have “yelled” when passengers weren’t following rules in security lines. (iStock)

“I didn’t know the rules. It’s different everywhere. Like, please don’t yell at me. I’m sensitive. I’m just a girl,” she said, adding that she has been yelled at while going through security.

Additionally, Acton blasted passengers who don’t put their carry-on luggage in the overhead bin correctly.

“You are an idiot if you cannot put your suitcase in the overhead bin the correct way,” she said.

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Acton said she gets annoyed when people don’t properly put their carry-on luggage in the overhead bin. (iStock)

She added, “You’re supposed to put [it] on your side so it can make room for more people. It’s so inconsiderate.”

Acton even called out passengers who recline their seats once in the air.

“I think the people who lean their seat backs are a——-. I know that you have every single right to do that. I know your legs are probably long. It’s probably more comfortable,” she explained.

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She continued, “It’s just kind of, like, inconsiderate to the person behind you.”

When it comes to deplaning, Acton said she doesn’t mind when passengers crowd the aisle, even though other travelers sometimes say they are bothered by this move. (iStock)

Acton also said she gets frustrated with inconsistent security line timing, “anxiety inducing” boarding processes, space between gates and people who crowd the baggage claim area.

Rosalinda Randall, a California-based etiquette expert and trainer, told Fox News Digital via email that individuals refuse to “adhere to social norms” often.

Randall said that when it comes to the proper way to exit an airplane, passengers should wait to deplane until it’s their turn unless communicated otherwise to a flight attendant in advance.

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“Unless you have a connecting flight, the job interview of a lifetime or are going to be late for your wedding, wait your turn,” she said.

Frustrated passenger and airplane window

The woman’s TikTok video shed light on “unpopular airport opinions.” A California-based etiquette expert weighed in on some of the strong thoughts. (iStock)

If you are in a hurry, Tandall said, alert a flight attendant prior to landing of your urgency, politely explaining to others around you that you need to get up first and expect uncooperative passengers in the midst.

Randall also commented on whether it’s proper to recline the airplane seat while on a flight.

She said, “As paying passengers, we should be able to recline whenever we want. However, it becomes an issue when we enter someone else’s space.”

She recommended considering a few factors before pressing the recline button on your next flight.

Randall suggested people avoid reclining during meal times, reclining only half-way if the person behind you is working on a laptop or holding a child and seeking assistance if there becomes an issue with space among passengers.

Fox News Digital reached out to Acton for further comment.

Brittany Kasko is a lifestyle production assistant with Fox News Digital.

Overall obesity rates in US down while severe obesity continues to rise: CDC

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September 24, 2024

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The general rate of obesity among adults in the United States has stagnated, but the rate of severe obesity has increased, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

A report compiled by the CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics found that between August 2021 and August 2023, the rate of obesity among the nation’s adults was approximately 40.3%.

In 2020, the rate of obesity among adults was 41.9%.

General obesity rates have slowed or slightly reduced in recent years, but the rate of severe obesity has continued to rise, according to a new report from the CDC. (iStock)

The small decline in the obesity rate is too small to be considered a reversal of the nationwide epidemic, but it does mark a distinct break from past years.

Since 2011, CDC reports have showed a consistently growing portion of U.S. adults struggling with obesity.

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Additionally, the rate of severe obesity continues to increase despite general obesity rates slowing down.

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Regardless of the direction the obesity crisis is trending, the rate remains far too high, according to the CDC.

“From 2013–2014 through August 2021–August 2023, the age-adjusted prevalence of obesity in adults did not change significantly, while the age-adjusted prevalence of severe obesity increased from 7.7% to 9.7%,” the CDC reported.

Individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher are considered obese. Individuals with a BMI of 40 or higher are considered severely obese.

A general view of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia. (REUTERS/Tami Chappell/File Photo)

“The prevalence of severe obesity in men (6.7%) was lower than in women (12.1%) overall and for each age group,” the CDC found. “Among men, the prevalence was highest in those ages 40–59. Among women, the prevalence was higher in those ages 20–39 and 40–59 than in those age 60 and older.”

One of the long-term goals of the CDC’s national “Healthy People 2030” plan is “helping people eat healthy and get enough physical activity to reach and maintain a healthy weight.”

“Healthy People 2030” aims at reducing the rate of obesity to below 38.6% by 2030 but has noted the problem is only “getting worse.”

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September 24, 2024