Democrats heap praise on Harris’ debate performance, say she ‘destroyed’ Trump’s career

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September 11, 2024

Democratic elected officials and political operatives heaped praise on Vice President Kamala Harris for her debate performance against former President Donald Trump on Tuesday evening.

“America got to see tonight the leader I’ve been proud to work alongside for three and a half years. Wasn’t even close. VP Harris proved she’s the best choice to lead our nation forward. We’re not going back,” President Biden posted on X early Wednesday morning after the debate wrapped up.

“Well, that was a knockout. I’m looking forward to seeing how Republicans try to spin this one,” Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer posted to X in another favorable message for Harris.

Trump and Harris took the same debate stage for the first time this election cycle on Tuesday evening in Philadelphia’s National Constitution Center. The pair sparred over the top issues concerning voters, including the economy, immigration and abortion.

TRUMP FACT CHECKS HARRIS ON CHARLOTTESVILLE RIOT ACCUSATION: ‘DEBUNKED’

Screenshot: Fox News simulcast of ABC News Presidential Debate (Screenshot: Fox News simulcast of ABC News Presidential Debate)

Harris’ Democratic allies in Congress, as well as Democratic pundits, praised Harris for how she “destroyed” Trump’s career, and that voters bore witness to a “serious leader who will work day in and out” for the American people.

TRUMP SAYS HE ‘PROBABLY TOOK A BULLET TO THE HEAD’ DUE TO DEM RHETORIC

The Harris campaign also released a statement Tuesday evening, taking a victory lap that “Harris commanded the stage on every single issue that matters to the American people.”

“Under the bright lights, the American people got to see the choice they will face this fall at the ballot box: between moving forward with Kamala Harris, or going backwards with Trump. That’s what they saw tonight and what they should see at a second debate in October. Vice President Harris is ready for a second debate. Is Donald Trump?” the Harris campaign posted.

Trump and Harris sparred on top issues concerning voters on Tuesday evening, including on abortion, when Harris claimed Trump’s platform would install a national abortion ban that would allow for no exceptions to such a procedure.

HARRIS CLAIMS TRUMP ABORTION PLATFORM MAKES ‘NO EXCEPTION,’ MOMENTS AFTER TRUMP SAYS THE OPPOSITE

“Now, in over 20 states, there are Trump abortion bans, which make it criminal for a doctor or nurse to provide health care in one state. It provides prison for life. Trump abortion bans that make no exception, even for rape and incest, which understand what that means,” Harris said Tuesday evening from Philadelphia’s National Constitution Center.

Trump and Harris shaking hands at debate

US Vice President Kamala Harris, right, and former US President Donald Trump shake hands during the second presidential debate at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US, on Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2024. Trump and Harris enter Tuesday’s debate in search of the same goal, a moment that will help them gain the edge in a race polls show is essentially tied. Photographer: Doug Mills/The New York Time/Bloomberg via Getty Images (Getty Images)

“A survivor of a crime of violation to their body does not have the right to make a decision about what happens to their body. That is immoral, and one does not have to abandon their faith or deeply held beliefs to agree the government and Donald Trump certainly should not be telling a woman what to do with her body.”

Moments before, however, Trump said he believes in exceptions for abortion, similar to former President Reagan.

“I believe in the exceptions for rape, incest and life of the mother,” Trump said during the debate. “I believe strongly in it. Ronald Reagan did also. Eighty-five percent of Republicans knew exceptions are very important.”

Trump and Harris also traded barbs on the issue of crime in the United States, as Harris defended accusations that migrant crime has increased under her watch by citing Trump’s legal issues.

“Yeah, it is much higher because of them,” Trump said during the debate in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania discussing crime committed by illegal immigrants in the U.S., some of which entered the country under Biden’s watch.

“They allowed criminals, many, many millions of criminals,” Trump continued, “They allowed terrorists. They allowed common street criminals. They allowed people to come in drug dealers to come into our country. And then now in the United States and told by their countries like Venezuela, don’t ever come back or we’re going to kill you. Do you know that crime in Venezuela and crime in countries all over the world is way down?”

TRUMP FLIPS ‘I’M TALKING’ SCRIPT FROM 2020 DEBATE AGAINST KAMALA HARRIS DURING PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE SHOWDOWN

US Vice President Kamala Harris, right, and former US President Donald Trump during the second presidential debate at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US, on Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2024. Trump and Harris enter Tuesday’s debate in search of the same goal, a moment that will help them gain the edge in a race polls show is essentially tied. Photographer: Doug Mills/The New York Time/Bloomberg via Getty Images (Getty Images)

Harris responded by bringing up Trump’s criminal convictions and pending indictments.

“Well, I think this is so rich coming from someone who has been prosecuted for national security crimes, economic crimes, election interference has been found liable for sexual assault,” Harris said.

TRUMP, HARRIS TRADE BARBS ON CRIME DURING FIRST PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE: ‘THROUGH THE ROOF’

“And his next big court appearance is in November at his own criminal sentencing. And let’s be clear where each person stands on the issue of what is important about respect for the rule of law and respect for law enforcement.”

Following the debate, the Harris campaign called for a second debate in October. Trump had repeatedly called for additional debates against Harris, after only having one other presidential debate in June against President Biden.

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“That was fun. let’s do it again,” Harris adviser Brian Fallon said on X moments after the debate wrapped.

Get the latest updates from the 2024 campaign trail, exclusive interviews and more at our Fox News Digital election hub.

Tick-borne ‘Wetland virus,’ newly discovered in China, could cause damage to brain, researchers say

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September 10, 2024

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Scientists are warning of a new tick-borne disease — which they are calling the Wetland virus (WELV) — that was recently discovered in China.

A member of the Orthonairovirus genus of viruses, WELV previously infected a man in Inner Mongolia, China, in 2019 — but it was not identified until this new study, which was published in The New England Journal of Medicine last week.

The 61-year-old man, who was bitted by a tick at a wetland park, sought medical attention for “persistent fever and multiple organ dysfunction,” according to the study.

FIRST CASE OF HUMAN BIRD FLU DIAGNOSED WITHOUT EXPOSURE TO INFECTED ANIMALS, CDC SAYS

A team of researchers from the Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology isolated the virus from that patient and later identified it as WELV.

Scientists are warning of a new tick-borne disease — which they call the Wetland virus (WELV) — that was recently discovered in China. (iStock)

Using laboratory testing, the team went on to detect the virus in 17 other patients in China, whose symptoms included fever, headache, dizziness, muscle pain, fatigue, back pain, arthritis, swollen lymph nodes and neurologic issues, the study findings noted.

Some also had petechiae, which are spots on the skin caused by bleeding from capillaries.

Eight of the patients who had recovered were found to have four times as many WELV-specific antibodies than those who had not yet recovered, the researchers found.

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After receiving antiviral medications, antibiotics or immunoglobulin therapy, all the patients recovered without any long-term health effects.

The Wetland virus is similar to the Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever, a virus that causes fever, headache, muscle pains, vomiting, diarrhea, bleeding into the skin and liver failure in severe cases, according to the study findings.

The virus could cause brain damage and death, researchers found.

The RNA of the virus was found in five different tick species, along with sheep, horses, pigs and rodents in northeastern China.

When injected into mice and hamsters, the virus was shown to cause brain damage and death.

A team of researchers from the Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology isolated the virus. (iStock)

Diagnosing the Wetland virus could prove to be a challenge, as its symptoms usually match that of a “non-specific illness,” the researchers noted.

“Improving surveillance and detection for emerging orthonairoviruses will allow a better understanding of the effect that these viruses have on human health,” they wrote.

Doctors react to viral discovery

Dr. Marc Siegel, senior medical analyst for Fox News and clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center, said the findings spotlight the wide range of viruses that a tick or other “insect vector” can transmit.

“This can cause hemorrhagic fever and can be quite deadly,” Siegel, who was not involved in the study, told Fox News Digital. “It’s worth keeping an eye on, but is very rare.”

WHAT IS EEE, THE MOSQUITO-BORNE DISEASE THAT KILLED A NEW HAMPSHIRE MAN?

Dr. Edward Liu, chief of infectious diseases at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center, noted that tick-borne diseases typically don’t spread quickly.

“They slowly expand their territory as ticks shift their environments, but are nothing like respiratory viruses, which transmit much more easily and literally can spread from continent to continent in one day,” he told Fox News Digital.

It’s important to identify and avoid areas where ticks may live, including wooded, grassy or brushy areas, according to the CDC. (iStock)

Viruses or bacteria that live in ticks are very specific to certain species, Liu noted — “so those viruses don’t automatically transfer to ticks in the U.S.”

“I am not worried about a COVID-19-type pandemic,” he added.

‘SLOTH FEVER,’ OR THE OROPOUCHE VIRUS, HAS ENTERED THE US, HERE’S WHAT TO KNOW

He did, however, echo Siegel’s warning of potentially fatal ramifications, as the Wetland disease causes hemorrhagic fever, which can be deadly.

“Elderly people and immunocompromised patients are at the greatest risk,” Liu said.

Preventing tick bites

The best means of prevention against tick-borne diseases is to protect against bites, experts say.

It’s important to identify and avoid areas where ticks may live, including wooded, grassy or brushy areas, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). They can also live on animals.

The Wetland virus is similar to the Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever, a virus that causes fever, headache, muscle pains, vomiting, diarrhea, bleeding into the skin and liver failure in severe cases, according to the study findings. (iStock)

The CDC recommends treating all clothing and gear with products containing 0.5% permethrin, which helps to repel ticks.

People can also apply an EPA-registered insect repellent, such as those containing DEET.

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After coming inside after spending time outdoors, the CDC recommends checking all clothing, gear and pets for ticks. It is best to shower within a couple of hours.

The agency also suggests doing a full-body check.

To protect against tick bites, people can also apply an EPA-registered insect repellent, such as those containing DEET, the CDC said. (iStock)

Clothing can be dried at high heat for 10 minutes — or washed with hot water — to kill any ticks.

Anyone who experiences symptoms of illness after a tick bite should contact a medical provider.

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

The study at Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology was funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences.

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Fox News Digital reached out to the researchers for comment.

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.

Top suicide factors identified in new CDC report on World Suicide Awareness Day

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September 10, 2024

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This story discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, please contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

Suicide continues to be a leading cause of death in the U.S., with approximately 49,000 people taking their own lives in 2022.

That’s according to a new report released on Sept. 10 — which is World Suicide Prevention Day — by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The report highlighted three county-level factors that contributed to suicide rates — health insurance coverage, household broadband internet access and household income.

SUICIDE RATES REACH ALL-TIME HIGH IN US, PER CDC DATA

“Overall, suicide rates in counties with higher levels of health insurance coverage, household broadband internet access and household income were lower than rates in counties with lower levels of these factors,” the report stated.

Suicide continues to be a leading cause of death in the U.S., with approximately 49,000 people taking their own lives in 2022. (iStock)

Suicide rates were highest among non-Hispanic American Indian or Alaska Native people, males and rural residents, per the CDC.

“It might feel uncomfortable to act on potential warning signs, but in reality, it is courageous and can save a life.”

Data for the report was pulled from the 2022 National Vital Statistics System.

Fox News Digital reached out to the CDC for comment.

Warning signs to know

The best mode of suicide prevention is to check in on loved ones regularly and understand how they are doing, according to Cara McNulty, the Minneapolis-based president of behavioral health and mental well-being at CVS Health.

“By doing this, you can notice any changes in mental health and begin to offer support before the signs of suicide,” McNulty previously told Fox News Digital.

On World Suicide Prevention Day, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, released a report identifying the top three factors driving suicide rates. (REUTERS/Tami Chappell/File Photo)

“If your loved one has a pre-existing mental health issue, such as depression, substance-use disorder, anxiety or psychosis, they are at an elevated risk of attempting suicide.”

Other risk factors for suicidal thoughts include eating disorders, trauma or personality-related disorders, McNulty warned.

YOUNG WOMAN IS TALKED OUT OF SUICIDE BY A PASSERBY, AN OFF-DUTY PARAMEDIC: ‘ARE YOU OK?’

“However, it’s crucial to note that mental illness alone doesn’t cause suicidal thoughts — it’s the combination of distress from these conditions and life challenges that can lead to such feelings and behaviors,” she added.

Environmental factors such as prolonged stress and life-altering events, as well as a family history of mental health issues or suicide, can also contribute to suicidal tendencies, the expert noted.

Environmental factors such as prolonged stress and life-altering events, as well as a family history of mental health issues or suicide, can contribute to suicidal tendencies. (iStock)

Some signs that a loved one may be considering suicide include mentioning feeling a sense of emptiness or that they are better off dead, increasing their alcohol or drug use, or saying goodbye to loved ones, according to McNulty.

“If you hear any of the above, it is time to seek out help,” she said.

“It might feel uncomfortable to act on potential warning signs, but in reality, it is courageous and can save a life.”

ARMY VETERAN SAYS FAITH IN GOD SAVED HIS LIFE AFTER 12 SUICIDE ATTEMPTS: ‘SOMETHING STRONGER THAN MYSELF’

Suicidal ideation isn’t black or white, but more of a spectrum, noted Dr. Ryan Sultan, a board-certified psychiatrist, research professor at Columbia University in New York and medical director of Integrative Psych NYC.

“While active plans or intentions to commit suicide are on the more severe end of this spectrum, even passive thoughts about suicide should never be dismissed,” he previously told Fox News Digital.

“Every expression or hint of suicidal ideation, no matter how seemingly benign, warrants attention, understanding and appropriate intervention,” a mental health expert said. (iStock)

“Such thoughts, while not always leading to active plans or attempts, are concerning and should raise yellow or red flags for both the individual experiencing them and the people in their lives,” he went on.

“Every expression or hint of suicidal ideation, no matter how seemingly benign, warrants attention, understanding and appropriate intervention.”

Debunking myths about suicide

One of the most common misconceptions is that mentioning the word “suicide” to people in crisis increases the chances that they will act on it, said McNulty.

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“Having open and honest dialogues can promote healthy relationships and reduce the feeling of isolation that someone struggling may be experiencing,” she said.

“It’s not just about recognizing the signs — it’s about feeling empowered to act upon them.”

People also may incorrectly believe that suicide is not something that can be preventable, McNulty noted.

“Suicide is very complex, and it may feel that stopping an attempt is impossible, but the reality is, if we continue to discuss the warning signs and connect people in need to available resources, we will have a better chance to reduce suicide rates nationwide,” she said.

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“Most people with suicidal ideation or intent are highly ambivalent, driven by intolerable pain,” McNulty went on.

“Guiding someone to receive professional help can tip that critical scale. People typically don’t want to die — they want the suffering to end.”

The best mode of suicide prevention is to check in on loved ones regularly and understand how they are doing, an expert said. (iStock)

Sultan calls for better education, open dialogue and improved access to resources to “bridge the gap” between suicide awareness and prevention.

“It’s not just about recognizing the signs — it’s about feeling empowered to act upon them,” he said. “Only then can we hope to stem the rising tide of suicidal ideation among our younger generation.”

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

If someone exhibits signs of suicide ideation, experts urge seeking help immediately by calling or texting 988 or chatting at 988lifeline.org.

CVSHealth.com also offers a number of mental health guides, podcasts and trainings centered around different populations and their unique mental health needs.

Strangest items left in hotel rooms revealed in new report

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September 10, 2024

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Hotels.com has released a “Hotel Room Innsights Report” that reveals the most common and surprising items left behind by travelers.

The company, based in Dallas, Texas, gathered information from more than 400 of their partner hotels worldwide.

Some of the most bizarre items left behind are a pet lizard, a chicken, a $6 million watch and a car tire.

TRAVEL THE NFL: BEST AND WORST TAILGATING CITIES FOR YOUR WALLET

The priciest items forgotten by visitors are a Birkin bag and a Rolex.

Hotels.com has released a “Hotel Room Innsights Report” that reveals the most common and surprising items left behind by travelers. (jacoblund)

Ten percent of hotels reported that guests left behind their dentures, according to the report.

For more Lifestyle articles, visit foxnews.com/lifestyle

“Despite efforts like ‘lost and found’ boxes, some hotel staff have gone to the extreme to reunite guests with their possessions,” said the report.

Hotels.com dubbed some workers “hotel hero[es]” with one driving 100 miles to return a passport, another running several blocks to deliver items before a cruise ship departed and one shopping to replace a lost teddy bear for a young traveler.

Hotels.com surveyed more than 400 of their hotel partners to create a report on some of the most common or bizarre items left behind by hotel guests. (andresr)

The oddest room service requests consisted of an Evian-filled bathtub, 4 pounds of bananas and a caviar hot dog.

“At Hotels.com we know hotels inside and out – it’s in our name. By asking hotels to reveal the secrets behind their most memorable stays, we discovered that these ‘innsights’ have actually inspired services available to guests today,” Melanie Fish, vice president of global public relations at Hotels.com, said in the press release attached to the report.

The company also revealed the most common items left behind by hotel guests.

See the list below.

The oddest room service requests were also included in Hotels.com’s report. The requests included an Evian-filled bathtub, 4 pounds of bananas and a caviar hot dog, according to the company. (iStock)

Most common items left behind by hotel guests

1. Chargers and power banks

2. Dirty laundry and clothes

Hotels.com found that chargers and power banks are the most common items left behind by travelers. (iStock)

3. Adapters

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4. Makeup and toiletries

Makeup and toiletries are the fifth most forgotten items in hotel rooms, according to Hotels.com. (Ivan Bajic)

5. Underwear

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Fox News Digital reached out to Hotels.com for additional comment.

Selling on the internet? Beware of sneaky tactics scammers use to trick you

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September 10, 2024

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Selling stuff online can be tempting. You don’t have to go out and hunt for buyers. Instead, you can just post an ad on platforms like eBay or Facebook Marketplace and wait for people to reach out to you. But along with the ease of online selling comes the risk of getting scammed.

One of the popular scams to watch out for is the Google Voice verification scam. This scam preys on unsuspecting sellers by exploiting their trust and the convenience of online communication. Scammers pose as potential buyers and use seemingly innocent requests to gain access to your personal information. Their ultimate goal is to hijack your phone number and use it for fraudulent activities.

Here’s how it works: A scammer will send you a text with a Google Voice verification code and ask you to share it with them. If you do, they’ll use that code to create a Google Voice number linked to your phone number. Once they’ve got that, they can use your number for all sorts of shady stuff, like identity theft.

Recently, I received an email from Allen C., a resident of Island Park, New York, explaining how he almost fell prey to the Google Voice scam. Below, I share Allen’s story, discuss the impact of such scams and provide tips on how you can protect yourself.

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Selling on the internet? Beware of sneaky tactics scammers use to trick you

A woman shopping online (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

How scammers prey on innocent online sellers

Allen told me he was trying to sell an item on eBay when he received a message from someone saying they were interested in buying the item. The person asked for his number, saying she was at work and her husband would contact him. Allen gave his contact number, but then she asked him to share a code.

“At first I thought it was legit, but then she told me she needs to confirm I was real, so she sends me this code through Google Voice, it gave me a 6 digit code which I was supposed to send back,” Allen told me.

“After thinking about it, I was trying to figure out why she needed to know if I was real, when we didn’t even discuss the item I was selling! I did some checking and she started spelling words wrong, she said she didn’t get the return code, I know she did, she begged me to let her send another one. My research confirmed it was probably a scam.”

Allen realized it was a scam just in time, refused to give the scammer his cell number and deleted the message.

A woman shopping online (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

DON’T FALL PREY TO ELECTION SEASON’S CRAFTIEST SCAMS

What happens when you give the code to scammers

Once you provide scammers with your Google Voice verification code, they can create a Google Voice number that is linked to your phone number. This gives them significant control over a virtual phone number associated with your real one, which poses serious risks.

One of the main dangers is that scammers can intercept verification codes sent by banks and financial institutions. When these institutions send a verification code to authorize a transaction, it may be redirected to the scammer’s Google Voice number instead of your phone. This allows the scammer to authorize fraudulent transactions, reset passwords and gain access to your financial accounts, effectively bypassing your security measures.

Additionally, by controlling a number linked to your identity, scammers can engage in identity theft. They may open a new credit card or loan account in your name, impersonate you to access other services that rely on phone verification and exploit your phone number as a recovery option for various accounts.

Furthermore, scammers can use the Google Voice number to conduct additional scams while appearing to have a legitimate U.S.-based number. This tactic helps them hide their true identity and makes it more challenging for authorities to trace their actions.

Ultimately, by gaining control of a number associated with your identity, scammers acquire a powerful tool that undermines common security measures that rely on phone verification. This can lead to financial losses, damage to your credit score and a complicated process of reclaiming your identity and securing your accounts.

TV HOST ANDY COHEN SWINDLED IN COSTLY BANK SCAM: HOW TO AVOID BECOMING A VICTIM YOURSELF

A woman selling stuff online (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

HOW TO AVOID BECOMING A MOVING SCAM VICTIM

How to reclaim your Google Voice number?

If you’ve given a scammer the verification, your linked number has been claimed, and someone else is using that number with another Voice account. If you still own the linked number, you can reclaim it by following these steps:

On your computer, go to voice.google.com.
Click Settings in the upper right corner.
Under Linked numbers, click New linked number, then enter the phone number to link
To verify your number, Google will provide a six-digit code. For a mobile number, click Send Code to review the code in a text message. If it’s a landline, click verify by phone link and then Call.
Enter the code and click Verify, then Claim

4 other ways to protect yourself from such scams

Scammers don’t only use Google Voice to scam you. They have plenty of other tactics, such as making you install malware to steal your data and passwords. Below are some tips to avoid getting scammed.

1) Check the email address: When you’re trying to sell something online, scammers might reach out to you via email and try to get you to click on malicious links. These links may look harmless, but they can give scammers access to your device and important data. Do not click on any links or attachments in the email and do not reply to it. Remember, you don’t need to click any links to sell an item online.

The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware and potentially access 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.

2) Avoid the sense of urgency: Many online selling scams create a sense of urgency or panic to trick you. Scammers might tell you that there’s a problem with your account, claim that you owe money, suggest that there’s an issue with your listing or even offer you a prize.

They may pressure you to act quickly, asking you to send money, provide personal information or buy gift cards. Don’t let them rush or pressure you. Take a moment to think carefully before you respond. If you’re unsure, consult someone you trust, such as a friend, family member or financial adviser. Remember, legitimate buyers or platforms will never ask you to pay with gift cards, wire transfers or cryptocurrency.

3) Verify buyer or seller’s identity: If you receive a message or call from someone claiming to be a buyer, a platform representative or an organization related to your online sale, don’t trust them blindly. Scammers may use fake names, phone numbers or email addresses to deceive you. They might also have some information about you, such as your name or listing details, which doesn’t mean they are legitimate. This information could be obtained from public sources or previous scams.

Do not provide any additional personal information, such as your bank details, password or Social Security number. Avoid agreeing to any unusual requests, like sending money, buying gift cards or sharing codes. Instead, verify their identity by contacting the organization or platform directly using a known, official contact method. You can also check the organization’s website for any alerts or warnings about scams.

4) Invest in personal data removal services: Removing yourself from the internet is an important step in protecting your personal information from scammers and cybercriminals. Even if you’re not selling anything online, removing your personal information from the web is crucial. This prevents scammers from obtaining your data to make fraudulent calls or create convincing scams. By limiting your online presence, you reduce the chances of scammers finding and exploiting your personal details. Additionally, deleting yourself from the internet ensures that scammers cannot access your personal information to call you or make you believe they have some of your credentials, making their scams seem legitimate.

While no service promises to remove all your data from the internet, having a removal service is great if you want to constantly monitor and automate the process of removing your information from hundreds of sites continuously over a longer period of time. Check out my top picks for data removal services here.

ALERT: 4.3 MILLION AMERICANS EXPOSED IN MASSIVE HEALTH SAVINGS ACCOUNT DATA BREACH

Kurt’s key takeaway

Selling items online can be easy, but it comes with risks, such as the Google Voice scam. If someone asks you for a verification code or personal details during a sale, be extra cautious. Always verify their legitimacy and use official channels for communication. Only use trusted platforms to sell anything online and take steps to protect yourself from identity theft, which can impact your finances for years.

Have you ever fallen victim to an online scam? What did you learn from the experience? 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.

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

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Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

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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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‘Smart mask’ could detect asthma, COPD and other medical conditions, researchers say

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September 10, 2024

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Your breath could hold clues to your health, researchers say — and they have developed a “smart mask” to tap into them.

Wei Gao, professor of medical engineering at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) in Pasadena, led the team that created the EBCare, a mask that analyzes the chemicals in someone’s breath to detect any existing health issues.

The mask is designed to screen for medical conditions like respiratory infections, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), asthma and post-COVID infections, according to a press release from Caltech.

YOUR SWEAT COULD HOLD SECRETS ABOUT YOUR HEALTH, RESEARCHERS SAY — HERE’S HOW

EBCare works by cooling the breath to convert it into a liquid, then transports it to sensors to be analyzed for specific biomarkers.

Researchers have developed a “smart mask” (pictured at left) to detect signs of medical conditions. (Caltech/Wei Gao and Wenzheng Heng; iStock)

In an email to Fox News Digital, lead researcher Gao noted the mask’s ability to enable “continuous, real-time monitoring of exhaled breath condensate (EBC) in a non-invasive and wearable format.”

“This technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we monitor respiratory health by providing valuable insights into conditions like asthma, COPD and other metabolic disorders,” Gao said, noting that it could be a path to more personalized health care.

BLOOD PRESSURE IS ‘HIGHER THAN NORMAL’ FOR 1 IN 7 KIDS, SAYS AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

“It can also be applied to pandemic management by monitoring respiratory infections on a wide scale,” he added.

The ultimate goal is for the EBCare technology to go beyond respiratory diseases, Gao noted.

“As research progresses, we envision that the smart mask can be adapted to detect a wider range of biomarkers, including those related to metabolic, cardiovascular and infectious diseases,” he said.

This schematic shows the process by which the smart mask can detect chemicals in the breath, such as nitrite, which is an indicator of airway inflammation. (Caltech/Wei Gao and Wenzheng Heng)

A study of the mask’s capabilities included 31 healthy adults who wore the EBCare in real-life settings over a 14-hour span, according to Caltech. They only removed the mask for three-minute intervals to eat.

Ten of the participants were smokers, 10 had asthma, nine had COPD and 12 had recently recovered from COVID-19.

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The masks accurately detected the biomarker for asthma and COPD in participating patients. They also successfully detected signs of kidney disease.

EBCare also produced accurate readings of blood alcohol levels.

“Monitoring alcohol levels in real time offers a non-invasive and continuous alternative to breathalyzers or blood tests,” Gao said.

“We would need to see at least a few clinical studies demonstrating that the masks can diagnose better — or more rapidly or with more sensitivity — than the standard of care.”

The research — which was funded by the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation, the Tobacco Related Disease Research Program, and the U.S. Army Medical Research Acquisition Activity — was published in the journal Science on Aug. 29.

The idea is not for the smart mask to replace traditional medical diagnosis, but to provide “early warning” through continuous health monitoring during daily activities and to “bridge the gap” between doctor’s visits, Gao said.

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“The goal is to identify subtle physiological changes before they develop into more severe conditions, giving individuals the opportunity to take proactive steps in managing their health,” he said.

This is especially important for those who need regular monitoring, such as patients with chronic conditions or those recovering from respiratory infections like COVID-19, according to Gao.

The mask (not pictured) is designed to screen for medical conditions like respiratory infections, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), asthma and post-COVID infections. (iStock)

“I recommend that health care providers consider integrating real-time EBC analysis technology into their diagnostic and monitoring practices, especially for chronic conditions like asthma and COPD,” he said.

“For individuals, the ability to monitor one’s health non-invasively through a wearable device offers the opportunity to be more proactive in managing personal health, which can lead to early intervention and better health outcomes.”

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MarkAlain Déry, DO, MPH, infectious disease doctor and chief innovation officer at Access Health Louisiana, who was not involved with the development of the smart mask, agreed that it is an “exciting concept.”

“Could it work? Sure,” he told Fox News Digital.

Wei Gao, professor of medical engineering at the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena, led the team that created the EBCare mask. (Caltech)

“However, we would need to see at least a few clinical studies demonstrating that the masks can diagnose better — or more rapidly or with more sensitivity — than the standard of care,” he went on.

“Then, we would need studies that demonstrate clinical improvement.”

Potential limitations

Some external doctors not involved in the mask’s development questioned whether this mode of data collection is beneficial.

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“While the mask introduces an innovative method to monitor exhaled breath condensate (EBC), we need to ask an important question: Do these continuous, real-time measurements genuinely make a difference in everyday life?” said Dr. Brett Osborn, a Florida neurosurgeon, in a conversation with Fox News Digital.

“For the average person, the biomarkers it detects — ammonium, pH, nitrite and alcohol — do not need constant monitoring, especially when routine blood tests can provide this information more accurately and with greater relevance.”

“For the average person, the biomarkers it detects … do not need constant monitoring, especially when routine blood tests can provide this information more accurately and with greater relevance,” a doctor said. (iStock)

Osborn believes that the concept of the EBCare mask is better suited for “specific, high-stakes environments,” such as real-time monitoring of toxic gases in military or industrial settings.

“However, for the average person, especially in a post-pandemic world, the idea of wearing a mask like this is counterproductive,” he said.

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Dr. John W. Ayers, PhD, vice chief of innovation in the Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health at the University of California San Diego, also questioned the idea of having patients with asthma or COPD — who already experience breathing difficulties — wear the masks.

“For the average person, especially in a post-pandemic world, the idea of wearing a mask like this is counterproductive.”

The lead researcher, Gao, responded to some of these comments.

“While routine blood tests are indeed reliable, they are typically periodic and require a clinical setting, which limits their ability to capture dynamic, day-to-day physiological changes,” he told Fox News Digital.

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“The real innovation of the EBCare mask lies in its ability to continuously monitor health in real time, offering insights that might not be detectable with intermittent tests.”

For individuals managing chronic conditions like asthma, COPD or metabolic disorders, fluctuations in certain biomarkers can provide early warning signs, according to the researchers. (iStock)

For individuals managing chronic conditions like asthma, COPD or metabolic disorders, fluctuations in certain biomarkers can provide early warning signs before symptoms worsen, allowing for timely intervention, according to the researcher.

Gao, however, did acknowledge some limitations with the EBCare device.

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

“One limitation was the relatively small sample size in some of the clinical trials, particularly for conditions like COPD and asthma,” he told Fox News Digital.

“Future studies with larger and more diverse populations will help to further validate the device’s performance across a broader range of conditions and environments.”

Travel the NFL: Best and worst tailgating cities for your wallet

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Reporters News Wire

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September 10, 2024

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Tens of thousands of Americans have plans to attend their favorite NFL team’s games this season to root in-person and catch the live action of the sport.

Whether you’re attending a game close to home or have a tradition of going on the road to show your fandom, plan to include tailgating expenses in your budget.

These tailgating expenses can include parking, food and drinks and your favorite party snacks.

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As this year’s NFL season kicks off, Oddspedia, a New York-based sports news platform, analyzed the best tailgate destinations for football fanatics so you can get the most bang for your buck and manage your tailgating costs.

Tailgate season is here, which means now is the time to figure out just how much it will cost to enjoy some food and drink with friends before the big game. (iStock)

Facts and figures ahead of NFL tailgating season

Oddspedia examined the costs of a tailgate experience for a group of four hungry football game-goers and included the cost of parking in the tailgate zone for the first games of the season, plus the costs of essential party foods and drinks to make the tailgate a winning time.

“To estimate the cost of tailgating for four people, we divided our research into two main categories: food and drink and parking,” said Dustin Saracini, a betting analyst with Oddspedia who is based in Toronto.

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Next, he said, the process included using a list of classic items fans love to enjoy pregame and collected price data online from a local grocery store near each stadium.

football on ground at NFL tailgate event

The cost of a tailgate experience is made up of two major categories: food and drink, parking. (iStock)

The food and drinks that were included in the estimated tailgating costs were four different dips and four types of chips, as well as sub rolls, mayonnaise, meats, cheese, lettuce, tomato and red onion (to make a sandwich).

TOP TAILGATING FOODS AND TIPS TO SATISFY HUNGRY COLLEGE FOOTBALL FANS THIS SEASON

Items to make cheeseburgers were also included, such as burgers, buns, patties, cheese, lettuce and tomato.

Purchases for buffalo chicken wings, pretzels and hot dogs were also accounted for.

Along with some staple tailgate meals, a 16-pack of beer, two liters of soda and plenty of water are great beverages to pack for your tailgate. (iStock)

Popular drinks that are purchased for tailgating include beer (16-pack), Coca-Cola (two liters) and water (two 1.5L bottles).

Most expensive NFL tailgates in the US

San Francisco 49ers: Levi’s Stadium might be the most expensive tailgate, coming in at $292.33, with parking fees of $132, according to Oddspedia’s data.

Los Angeles Rams, Los Angeles Chargers: The state-of-the-art $5.5 billion SoFi Stadium offers an average parking fee of $100 and tailgating costs come to $257.55.

7 TIPS TO SURVIVING TAILGATING SEASON

Dallas Cowboys: The famous Cowboys play at AT&T Stadium, which has an average parking fee of $88. This stadium location ranks the third-most expensive at $242.15.

AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys, ranks No. 3 as the most expensive tailgate location with a parking fee averaging $88. (iStock)

Least expensive NFL tailgates in the US

Arizona Cardinals: Tailgating at State Farm Stadium will reportedly cost you an estimate of $158.07 with parking spots priced at around $21.

Atlanta Falcons, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Carolina Panthers: These southern cities cost around $173 to $181 with the Atlanta Falcons fans’ tailgating costing the least. Parking at Mercedes-Benz Stadium is priced at $21.

Average costs: The pregame experience for four tailgaters averages $205.17, with an average of $147.79 for food and drink and $57.38 for parking, Oddspedia reported.

Saracini told Fox News Digital that parking cost data focused on the first game of the season at each stadium.

“We took a look at official tailgating lots or those relatively close by that allowed fans to tailgate,” he said.

6 TAILGATING ESSENTIALS YOU NEED FOR THIS FOOTBALL SEASON

Also, cheaper price ranges were considered.

“While some lots had limited availability, we were able to identify standard parking spots for most stadiums,” added Saracini.

“We also consulted official stadium/team sources or used resale sites like Seatgeek.”

There are official tailgating lots available for fans to enjoy their pregame events and some separate, standard parking spots for those just coming in for the game. (iStock)

To compute the total costs, food and drink costs with the parking costs were calculated to provide a total tailgating cost for four people at each stadium.

What affects tailgating costs?

Saracini said two big factors driving up tailgating costs are gas and food prices.

“It’s gotten a lot more expensive to travel to games nowadays, especially for those going across the country,” he noted.

“And with food prices skyrocketing, hosting a tailgate party for a bunch of people can really hit your wallet.”

INFLATION HITS TAILGATING: HOW TO TACKLE THE HIGH COSTS THIS FOOTBALL SEASON

Also, many stadiums have been upgrading their facilities.

“While it’s nice to have nicer amenities, it can also mean higher costs for tailgaters,” Saracini said.

The cost of tailgating has increased along with rising gas and food prices. (iStock)

How can fans curb spending?

Consider these methods to save money on tailgating, according to Saracini.

Set a budget based on what you can afford

Attend NFL games in a group to share costs

Pool your supplies; for example, consider sharing a grill with friends

For more Lifestyle articles, visit www.foxnews.com/lifestyle

One way to avoid expensive food costs at games is to bring your own tailgate snacks and fill up on them to avoid stadium concessions. (iStock)

Bring your own food and drinks whenever possible

You can also save serious dough on stadium concessions by buying smart.

“Think budget-friendly options like fried chicken, cupcakes or nachos,” Saracini said.

Be flexible

If you’re not picky about the date or game, you could snag some savings.

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“But if you have your heart set on a specific game, start planning early,” Saracini said.

Do you know how much it costs to tailgate before your favorite game? Here is everything you need to know before paying the bill for your pregame celebrations. (iStock)

Avoid buying swag at the stadium

Jerseys and gear are usually cheaper elsewhere.

Get creative about buying tickets

When checking ticket re-sellers, Adam Budelli, spokesperson for StubHub in the San Francisco Bay Area, said searching for single tickets may yield better prices than groups.

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“Meet up with your friends for the tailgate but head into the game solo,” Budelli told Fox News Digital via email.

“We can see how roster moves and fan optimism have contributed to a boost in sales this season.”

Erica Lamberg is a contributing writer for Fox News Digital.

Indiana pair arrested for allegedly stealing bronze veteran burial markers from headstones

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Reporters News Wire

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September 10, 2024

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Two people are facing charges in Indiana in connection with a series of thefts of bronze veteran markers from headstones from various veteran burial locations in the Hoosier State.

Terry Wood, 53, and Breanna Puentez, 25, were taken into custody Friday after at least 15 grave markers from six different cemeteries in La Porte County last month were reported stolen while another was reportedly damaged, the La Porte County Sheriff’s Office said in a news release.

Both suspects are facing several felony counts of theft and cemetery mischief.

The sheriff’s office publicly announced the investigation into the stolen grave markers on Aug. 28 and urged residents to visit the grave sites of deceased veterans. The next day, the agency said investigators received credible information identifying a suspect.

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Terry Wood, 53, and Breanna Puentez, 25, are facing felony counts of theft and cemetery mischief. (La Porte County Sheriff’s Office)

Detective Jake Koch, a veteran himself, led the investigation, which revealed that the grave markers were taken from cemeteries in Union Mills, Rolling Prairie, Carmel, Pinola, Greenwood and St. Stan’s.

Investigators presented evidence to the La Porte County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and later to La Porte County Circuit Court, where probable cause was found for Wood’s arrest.

The “Justice, Peace, and Salute” operation was executed Friday in the 400 block of Andrew Avenue in La Porte, where Wood was arrested, and additional evidence was collected.

The investigation revealed that the grave markers were taken from cemeteries in Union Mills, Rolling Prairie, Carmel, Pinola, Greenwood and St. Stan’s. (iStock)

Later that day, Puentez was taken into custody and charged in connection with the thefts.

“This type of criminal behavior is disgusting, unacceptable, and will not be tolerated in La Porte County! It is the hope of the entire Sheriff’s Office that because of the diligent and thorough investigation by Detectives Koch and Banic, justice will be served to both accused subjects. Hopefully, US Veterans, both deceased and living, can find peace and comfort with these arrests, and with that, we salute them for their service,” Capt. Derek J. Allen said in a statement.

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Both suspects were booked into the La Porte County Jail. (iStock)

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Both suspects were booked into the La Porte County Jail.

Wood is being held on a $15,005 cash-only bond, while Puentez is not eligible for bond because she was out on bond.

Apple’s bold move into AI: New iPhone 16, AirPods and watches

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Reporters News Wire

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September 10, 2024

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Apple Inc. held its most significant event of the year today, where the tech giant unveiled its latest iPhone 16, Apple Watch 10 and AirPods lineup and previewed its new artificial intelligence platform, Apple Intelligence. This early Sept. 9 launch comes just ahead of other major global events, allowing Apple to seize the spotlight before the U.S. presidential debate and an important decision from the European Commission about a $14 billion tax dispute with Ireland.

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Apple’s bold move into AI: New iPhone 16, AirPods and watches

Apple event logo (Apple) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

The iPhone 16 lineup

I’ve been at and reported on nearly every Apple launch since the iPod, and this is something entirely new in direction. The iPhone 16 series was the star of the show, featuring four new models: the iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max. While the standard models will see minor upgrades in processor speed and memory, the Pro models promise more significant improvements.

iPhone 16 (Apple) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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iPhone gets bigger screen, thinner bezels, new cameras

With slightly larger, slimmer bezels and a new camera system, these devices are designed to attract both casual and professional users alike.

Notably, Apple is introducing a new touch-sensitive button on the Pro models for capturing photos and video, mimicking a DSLR camera’s shutter. This feature is expected to become a standout selling point for the Pro devices, alongside their enhanced AI capabilities, supported by 8 GB of memory and a faster neural engine optimized for Apple Intelligence.

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iPhone 16 (Apple) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Apple Intelligence: The AI push

At the heart of Monday’s event was Apple’s growing AI strategy. Apple Intelligence, which will power updates across devices, is poised to transform how users interact with their gadgets. While it’s still early days for this platform, its initial focus will be on streamlining notifications and summarizing messages. However, many features won’t fully launch until next year, highlighting the ongoing development of this AI ecosystem.

The “It’s Glowtime” theme for the event hints at a major redesign of Siri, which will be central to Apple’s AI experience. Despite its slow start, Apple Intelligence is a pivotal step in the company’s efforts to keep pace with competitors in the artificial intelligence race.

Apple Intelligence (Apple) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

The iPhone 16 and its features

The launch of the iPhone 16 integrates advanced features like Apple Intelligence, which is designed to enhance the user experience while prioritizing privacy.

Performance: With its A18 chip, the iPhone 16 delivers remarkable performance, offering up to 60% faster processing compared to its predecessor, the A16 Bionic. This chip not only improves speed but also enhances battery life, allowing for up to 27 hours of video playback on the iPhone 16 Plus.

Camera innovations: The camera system has also received a substantial upgrade, featuring a 48MP Fusion camera capable of capturing stunning images with improved low-light performance. The new ultra-wide camera allows for expansive shots and intricate macro photography, making it easier than ever to capture every detail.

Action Button: The introduction of the Action button provides users with quick access to their favorite features, streamlining everyday tasks.

Focus on user privacy: Apple ensures that personal data is processed on-device, safeguarding user information from unauthorized access.

Availability and pricing: The iPhone 16 is available in five vibrant colors, starting at $799, and will be available for pre-order on Sept. 13, with official release on Sept. 20.

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iPhone 16 (Apple) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Key features of the iPhone 16 Pro

The iPhone 16 Pro is designed to also integrate seamlessly with Apple Intelligence. Here are some of the standout features:

Design and display: The iPhone 16 Pro features a Grade 5 titanium design, available in four colors: Black Titanium, White Titanium, Natural Titanium and the new Desert Titanium. It features the thinnest borders yet, providing a larger 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR display that enhances visual engagement.

Camera innovations: Equipped with a new 48MP Ultra Wide camera and advanced Camera Control, users can capture stunning photos and videos, including 4K 120 fps Dolby Vision. The phone’s four studio-quality microphones and innovative audio features elevate recording quality, making it ideal for content creators.

Performance: Powered by the A18 Pro chip, the iPhone 16 Pro delivers unparalleled performance with a faster Neural Engine and improved graphics capabilities, allowing for enhanced gaming experiences and efficient multitasking.

Battery life: The device offers a significant increase in battery life, with up to 33 hours of video playback on the Pro Max model, thanks to optimized internal design and energy-efficient processing.

Privacy and accessibility: Apple Intelligence emphasizes user privacy through on-device processing and Private Cloud Compute, ensuring that personal data remains secure. New accessibility features, such as Eye Tracking and Music Haptics, make the iPhone 16 Pro more inclusive than ever.

Pre-order and availability: Pre-orders for the iPhone 16 Pro begin on Sept. 13, with availability starting Sept. 20, starting at a price of $999 or $41.62 per month for 24 months.

iPhone 16 Pro (Apple) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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AirPods new enhanced audio and hearing health innovations

Apple has unveiled significant updates to its AirPods lineup, introducing new models and innovative features. Apple introduced two new AirPods 4 models, both featuring a refined open-ear design: AirPods 4 (standard model), priced at $129, and AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation, priced at $179.

These new models represent Apple’s most advanced and comfortable open-ear design to date. Powered by the H2 chip, they offer improved sound quality and new features like Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness.

Apple also introduced the AirPods Max, which received a refresh with five new colors, including midnight, starlight, blue, purple and orange. The refresh also included USB-C charging capability for increased convenience.

The new AirPods 4 and updated AirPods Max are available for pre-order starting today, with in-store availability beginning Sept. 20.

AirPods 4 (Apple) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Revolutionary hearing health features for AirPods Pro 2

Apple announced groundbreaking hearing health capabilities coming to AirPods Pro 2 this fall. It includes hearing protection, which actively reduces loud, intermittent noises to prevent hearing damage, and a hearing test, which is a scientifically validated test conducted through AirPods Pro 2. Also, the AirPods Pro 2 is upgraded with clinical-grade, over-the-counter hearing aid functionality for mild to moderate hearing loss. These features will be available as a free software update in over 100 countries and regions, marking a significant step in Apple’s commitment to hearing health.

AirPods Pro 2 (Apple) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

APPLE RUSHES SURPRISE IOS SECURITY UPDATE TO IPHONE AND IPAD

Apple Watch Series 10 marks a decade of wearable innovation

For the first time in two years, all Apple Watch models will receive updates, including a new entry-level Apple Watch SE, the flagship Series 10 and the Ultra 2.

The Apple Watch Series 10, available for pre-order starting Sept. 20 at a price of $399, introduces several innovative features and enhancements. It is the thinnest model yet, boasting the largest display in the Apple Watch lineup, with a wide-angle OLED screen that is brighter and easier to read from different angles.

Key health features include new sleep apnea notifications, advanced heart rate monitoring and the ability to track various fitness activities with precision. The watch also includes new sensors for water temperature and depth, making it suitable for aquatic activities. Fast charging capabilities allow for 80% battery in just 30 minutes.

The Series 10 is available in various finishes, including Jet Black aluminum and polished titanium options, and is designed with sustainability in mind, utilizing recycled materials. It also offers enhanced connectivity features, allowing you to stay connected without needing your iPhone nearby.

Apple Watch Series 10 (Apple) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

The new Apple Watch Ultra 2

Meanwhile, the new Apple Watch Ultra 2 features a sleek black titanium case. The 49mm black titanium case is designed to withstand the harshest environments and is certified to the EN13319 standard for diving accessories. With a display brightness of 3000 nits, it boasts the brightest Apple display ever, along with WR100 water resistance and IP6X dust resistance. The customizable Action button offers precise control over your workouts, allowing you to start a session, mark a segment or move to the next interval with ease.

No matter where you are, the Ultra 2 ensures you won’t have to worry about battery life. It’s built to perform at peak conditions for longer, supporting up to 36 hours of normal use, 72 hours in Low Power Mode and up to 17 hours of outdoor workouts in Low Power Mode.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 (Apple) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

More to come in October and beyond

Though the spotlight was on the iPhone, AirPods and Apple Watch, other products are in the pipeline. Apple is working on transitioning its Mac lineup to M4 chips, with updates to the MacBook Pro, Mac mini and iMac likely scheduled for a later event this fall. A new version of the iPhone SE, an upgraded AirTag and refreshed iPads are also in development with their own launches expected next year.

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Apple Intelligence (Apple) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Kurt’s key takeaways

This event comes at a crucial time for Apple, as the company seeks to rebound from its longest sales slump in decades. With roughly 60% of Apple’s revenue tied to its device ecosystem, this latest lineup of products will not only drive sales but also encourage more spending on services, a key growth area for the company.

By introducing new AI-driven features and updates across its flagship products, Apple is positioning itself for the next era of tech innovation. The question remains whether Apple Intelligence will live up to the hype and how quickly the company can deliver on its promises. For now, all eyes are on Cupertino as Apple takes another step into the future of artificial intelligence.

Which product or feature from Apple are you most curious about and what questions do you have regarding its functionality? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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

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5-minute phone privacy audit to stop the snoops

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Reporters News Wire

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September 10, 2024

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We’ve all got a load of sensitive info on our phones — texts with loved ones, banking details, passwords and family photos.

We’re giving away a brand-new iPhone 16 (a $1,500 value). Enter to win here. No purchase necessary!

You don’t want anyone snooping around, whether it’s an app maker on the other side of the world or the guy sitting behind you at the coffee shop. Take five minutes to run this privacy audit, and then pat yourself on the back for a job well done.

Check your permissions

When you download apps, they often request a variety of permissions to access different parts of your phone — think your location, camera, microphone, contacts and text messages. Some are essential for the app to function properly (like a navigation app needing access to your location) but others are absolutely unnecessary.

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The most critical permissions to pay attention to are your phone’s location, camera and microphone. Only trust apps that have a clear, legitimate need for these permissions.

Use your common sense, too. Ask yourself: Does a shopping app really need access to my contacts? Should a photo editing app know my current location? For me, the answer is no. Granting unnecessary permissions increases your privacy exposure, so it’s better to err on the side of caution.

Make sure you’re keeping tabs on what you’re giving different apps access to on your phone. (Sean Gallup/Getty Images)

To check what permissions each app have:

Apple iPhone: Go to Settings > Privacy & Security, then Location Services, Camera or Microphone.
Google Pixel: Open Settings > Security and privacy > Privacy controls > Permission manager.
Samsung Galaxy: Head to Settings > Security and privacy > Permission manager.

You’ve probably granted permissions to apps on your computer, too, that you forgot about. Here’s how to check those while you’re at it.

DO THIS WITH YOUR FAMILY VIDEOS BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE

Lock down everything

Your lock screen is the first line of defense against unwanted eyes. You can use a PIN, pattern, fingerprint, facial recognition, whatever. No matter which method you choose, it’s far better than leaving your phone unsecured.

If you’re using a PIN, stay away from anything obvious like 1234, your birthday or address, or the last digits of your phone number.

Apple iPhone: Set this up via Face ID & Passcode.
Google Pixel: Head to Settings > Security and privacy > Device lock.
Samsung Galaxy: Under Settings, look for Lock screen and AOD.

Make sure you’re setting your phone to lock itself as soon as possible. It’s an easy, foolproof way to keep prying eyes away from your sensitive info. (iStock)

You’ll also want your phone to lock as soon as possible when you’re not using it. I find around 30 seconds is the sweet spot between safety and annoyance.

Apple iPhone: Under Settings, choose Display & Brightness > Auto-Lock.
Google Pixel: Head to Settings > Display and touch > Screen timeout.
Samsung Galaxy: From your settings, tap Display > Screen timeout.

Keep out strangers

The short-range transfer tech built into iOS and Android is super handy when you need to share something with a friend or relative. But you don’t want strangers pinging you with unwanted photos, videos and other files.

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This happened to me once at the airport. In my case, it was just teenagers pranking me with silly pictures, but this can end a lot worse.

Apple iPhone: Your device uses AirDrop for these types of transfers. Limit it to contacts only or turn it off altogether via Settings > General > AirDrop.
Android devices: The transfer tool here is called Quick Share (formerly Nearby Share). On a Pixel, you’ll find the sharing prefs under Settings > Connected devices > Connection preferences > Quick Share. On a Galaxy, it’s under Settings > Connected devices > Quick Share.

Browse the web

Open your phone’s browser and say hello to instant tracking, unless you do something about it.

Web browsing apps are rife with instant tracking mechanisms. Fortunately, you can disable them. (Chesnot/Getty Images)

Put limits on this on your iPhone by opening Settings > Apps and tapping on Safari. Under the app’s settings, scroll to Privacy & Security and toggle on the option for Prevent Cross-Site Tracking.
For Chrome on Android, open the browser and tap the three dots (top right). From there, hit Settings > Privacy and security > Third-party cookies and turn on Block third-party cookies.

That wasn’t so bad, right? Now, do your loved ones a solid and pass it along so they can stay safe, too. Yes, that includes teenagers!

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Kurt’s key takeaway

Potential limitations

Facts and figures ahead of NFL tailgating season

Most expensive NFL tailgates in the US

Least expensive NFL tailgates in the US

What affects tailgating costs?

How can fans curb spending?

Set a budget based on what you can afford

Attend NFL games in a group to share costs

Pool your supplies; for example, consider sharing a grill with friends

Bring your own food and drinks whenever possible

Be flexible

Avoid buying swag at the stadium

Get creative about buying tickets

The iPhone 16 lineup

iPhone gets bigger screen, thinner bezels, new cameras

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