Beware of this Social Security scam by crooks trying to trick you

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September 2, 2024

If there is something you can count on, it is that there seems to be a new scam every day. While we’ve covered different types of Social Security scams over the years, Jeanne from Hackensack, New Jersey, forwarded a new one to share with you.

“I received this email (displayed below) yesterday. I did not open the attachment. I hovered my mouse over the name of the Sender and immediately saw it as a lie.”

This vigilant approach by Jeanne demonstrates the importance of being cautious and skeptical when dealing with unsolicited emails, especially those claiming to be from official sources.

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Beware of this Social Security scam by crooks trying to trick you

Fake Social Security scam email (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What type of scam is this?

A phishing scam is when a person or group pretends to be an established organization, such as a governmental agency, financial institution or legitimate company. The scammer uses what looks like a legitimate email address and usually attaches what looks like an official invoice or letter.

They usually approach with a sense of urgency. In this instance, her Social Security number was compromised. The desired outcome is to get you to open the attachment, which can download a virus or malware onto your device or reach out to them to get your personal information, in this case, over the phone. Luckily, Jeanne knew better, did not open the attachment and reported it to the governmental agency being impersonated.

Illustration of scammers on laptops (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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What to do if you receive one of these scam emails?

Now that you know what types of emails to be wary of, what should you do when you receive them? Below are several methods to protect yourself.

1) Flag the email

Mark the email as junk or spam so your email service provider will learn to flag such emails. This should also make it harder to open the attachments accidentally.

2) Don’t open any attachments or links

Jeanne smartly did not open the attached letter. She hovered her cursor over the attachment and saw it was suspicious. Remember, opening attachments or links from a scammer can download viruses or malware to your device. It can also take you to another website that can glean more of your personal information or release viruses or malware.

3) Do not respond to the email or reach out to these scammers over the phone or any other method

This will simply validate that they have an actual victim to harass further. Additionally, if you do call them with the number they provided, they can connect your email address to the phone number you use to call them.

4) Go directly to the source

If there was indeed a problem with your Social Security number or account, you can go to the official Social Security Administration website. You can even visit them in person to validate your account standing.

Security alert notice on computer screen (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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8 ways to prevent phishing scammers from reaching you

Preventing yourself from being a target of a scam can save you loads of anxiety and trouble. Below are 8 ways to prevent yourself from being a victim in the first place.

1) Verify or sign up for a Social Security account

Whether you already have an account or not, regularly verifying your Social Security account is crucial. For those who haven’t, visit the official Social Security Administration website to create one. Since only one account can be registered per Social Security number, securing yours prevents others from fraudulently claiming it. If you already have an account, ensure it’s linked to a secure email that you check often and review your account statements to spot any discrepancies. This proactive approach helps safeguard your personal information and alerts you to any unauthorized activity.

2) Use two-factor authentication

Always enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for your online accounts. 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring two or more verification methods. It’s not just a password; it could be a code sent to your phone, a fingerprint or a facial scan. This makes it much harder for scammers to gain unauthorized access.

3) Keep software and systems updated

Cybercriminals often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software. Regularly updating your operating system, antivirus software and other applications can protect you from these threats. You can also set your devices to update automatically so you don’t have to remember to do it manually.

4) Secure your personal information

Be cautious about sharing personal information online. Think twice before entering sensitive details on websites, especially if you’re unsure they’re legitimate. Use privacy settings on social media to control who can see your information and be wary of unsolicited requests for your personal data.

5) Have strong antivirus software

If you have strong antivirus software installed on your device, it can protect you when you receive these types of scam emails or accidentally open the attachment or click a link. The best way to protect yourself from clicking malicious links that install malware that may get access to your private information is to have antivirus protection installed on all your devices. This can also alert you of any phishing emails or ransomware scams. Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

6) Invest in personal data removal services

Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their methods of obtaining personal information. They often scour the web for publicly available data, piecing together details from various sources to create targeted phishing attacks. These personalized scams can be alarmingly convincing, making it crucial to limit the amount of personal information accessible online.

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. Remove your personal data from the internet with my top picks here.

7) Use an identity theft protection service

Identity theft companies can monitor personal information like your Social Security number, phone number and email address and alert you if it is being sold on the dark web or being used to open an account. They can also assist you in freezing your bank and credit card accounts to prevent further unauthorized use by criminals.

One of the best parts of using some services is that they might include identity theft insurance of up to $1 million to cover losses and legal fees and a white-glove fraud resolution team where a U.S.-based case manager helps you recover any losses. See my tips and best picks on how to protect yourself from identity theft.

8) Directly reach out to the real organizations for verification

Just like Jeanne did, contact the government agency, financial institution or company directly using contact information from their official websites. Ensure that you never use any contact details provided in unsolicited communications, as these can be falsified by scammers to mislead you and become a potential victim.

By incorporating these strategies, you can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of phishing scams. Stay vigilant and proactive in protecting your personal information.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

When it comes to protecting yourself from scammers, you can never be too prepared. Let’s face it: These fraudsters are getting craftier by the day. They’re like those pesky weeds in your garden; just when you think you’ve got them all, a new one pops up. But don’t let that get you down. With the tips we’ve covered, you’re now armed and ready to spot these scams from a mile away. Stay skeptical of those fishy emails, and when in doubt, reach out to the real organizations directly. And hey, if you ever feel overwhelmed, just think of Jeanne from Hackensack. She didn’t fall for the scam and neither will you. You’ve got this.

Have you received a scam email from anyone pretending to be from a governmental agency? How did you respond? 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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You’ll now be able to charge your devices on the moon

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September 2, 2024

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As we gear up to return to the moon with NASA’s upcoming Artemis missions, we’re not just aiming to set foot there again. This time, we’re planning to stay. The Artemis program is focused on establishing a sustainable human presence on the moon, which will serve as a crucial stepping stone for future journeys to Mars.

This ambitious mission involves more than just landing astronauts. It requires a whole new level of infrastructure, and that’s where Honeybee Robotics steps in with its cutting-edge solutions, contributing to the development of essential technologies needed for living and working on the moon.

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You’ll now be able to charge your devices on the moon

Lunar power grid on the moon (Honeybee Robotics) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

The lunar power grid on the moon

Humans haven’t set foot on the moon in more than 50 years. As NASA and its partners work to change that, Honeybee Robotics is focused on ensuring we have the power systems necessary for long-term habitation and exploration. In collaboration with mPower Technology, Honeybee Robotics has been selected to develop the Lunar Array Mast and Power System (LAMPS), a key component of the lunar power grid.

This system will consist of towers as tall as the Statue of Liberty, equipped with solar panels and batteries, providing power, communications, and even street lighting on the moon. LAMPS utilizes Honeybee’s DIABLO technology and mPower’s DragonSCALES solar modules, enabling flexible and efficient energy solutions in the harsh lunar environment.

Lunar power grid on the moon (Honeybee Robotics) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Powering the moon, one tower at a time

Honeybee Robotics’ LUNARSABER initiative complements the lunar power grid by providing deployable towers, approximately 328 feet tall, that integrate solar power, storage and communication capabilities. These towers capture and store solar energy during the lunar day, ensuring power availability during the two-week lunar night.

The design includes innovative solar panels that offer 360-degree sunlight capture and large sails that track the sun’s position, ensuring nearly 95% solar light access throughout the year. This technology supports lunar operations and lays the groundwork for similar systems that could be used on Mars.

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Lunar power grid on the moon (Honeybee Robotics) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Creating a connected lunar network

The LUNARSABER towers can function independently or as part of a network, beaming energy and communication signals over long distances. This capability effectively creates a lunar grid, connecting various outposts and vehicles. In emergencies, such as a lunar rover running out of power during the lunar night, a nearby LUNARSABER could direct a concentrated beam of sunlight to recharge its solar panels, ensuring continuous operation.

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Lunar power grid on the moon (Honeybee Robotics) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Kurt’s key takeaways

The idea of having a power grid on the moon is quickly shifting from a far-off notion to something we can actually see taking shape. Honeybee Robotics is playing a big role in making this happen with its LUNARSABER initiative. While there are still hurdles to overcome, the potential for a bustling lunar economy is becoming somewhat more realistic. As these technologies continue to evolve, the moon could possibly become a vibrant center of human activity, setting the stage for future trips to Mars and beyond.

If given the opportunity, would you want to be among the first people to live and work on the moon? Why or why not? 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:

New from Kurt:

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

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There was no drug treatment for his son’s rare disease, so a dad created it

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September 2, 2024

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When his infant son was diagnosed with a rare, fatal disease, a Canadian father was dismayed to discover there was no treatment or cure. So he set out to make one himself.

Terry Pirovolakis, an IT director in Toronto, Ontario, welcomed his third son in Dec. 2017. It was a “normal, healthy birth,” he told Fox News Digital — but within six months, he and his wife, Georgia Pirovolakis, noticed their baby, Michael, was not lifting his head.

“He just didn’t seem like he was meeting his milestones,” Pirovolakis said.

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After months of doctors’ appointments, physiotherapy and genetic testing — what Pirovolakis describes as an “18-month diagnostic odyssey” — a neurologist diagnosed baby Michael with spastic paraplegia 50 (SPG50), a neurological disorder that affects fewer than 100 people in the world.

“They told us to just go home and love him — and said he would be paralyzed from the waist down by age 10, and quadriplegic by age 20,” Pirovolakis said.

When Michael Pirovolakis, pictured. was diagnosed with a rare, fatal disease as an infant, his father, Terry Pirovolakis, was dismayed to discover there was no treatment or cure. That’s when he set out to make one himself. (Terry Pirovolakis)

“They said he’d never walk or talk, and would need support for the rest of his life.”

What is SPG50?

Spastic paraplegia 50 (SPG50) is a neurological disorder that affects a child’s development, gradually leading to cognitive impairment, muscle weakness, speech impairment and paralysis, according to the National Organization for Rare Disorders.

Most people with the disease will die by the time they reach their 20s.

“Children with SPG50 may experience early developmental delays, muscle weakness and spasticity, but they continue to strive and adapt,” Dr. Eve Elizabeth Penney, an epidemiologist at the Texas Department of State Health Services and medical contributor for Drugwatch, told Fox News Digital.

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“Over time, these symptoms can worsen, making it hard for affected individuals to walk and perform daily activities,” added Penney, who was not involved in Michael Pirovolakis’ care.

“The prognosis varies from person to person, but it’s generally a progressive condition, meaning symptoms can become more severe over time,” she also said.

Michael Pirovolakis with mother and brother

Georgia Pirovolakis (left) is pictured with her two sons, including baby Michael, who was diagnosed with SPG50. (Terry Pirovolakis)

In the absence of a cure, most families can only manage symptoms through physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and medications to help control spasticity or seizures, Penney said.

“Managing SPG50 requires a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to address its various symptoms and challenges,” she added.

A father’s mission

There is no treatment currently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for SPG50.

After the shock of the diagnosis, Pirovolakis immediately started researching, with a focus on finding a gene therapy that could help his son.

“They said he would be paralyzed from the waist down by age 10, and quadriplegic by age 20.”

A month after his baby’s diagnosis, Pirovolakis flew to Washington, D.C., for a gene therapy conference, where he met with several experts. He also visited Sheffield, England, and the National Institutes of Health at the University of Cambridge, where scientists had been studying the disease.

“We then liquidated our life savings, refinanced our home and paid a team at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center to create a proof of concept to start Michael’s gene therapy,” Pirovolakis said.

Terry Pirovolakis, pictured with his family, used his life savings to create a genetic therapy for his youngest son, center, who has SPG50. (Terry Pirovolakis)

After successful tests showed the gene therapy was effective at stopping the disease’s progression in mice and in human cells, Pirovolakis worked with a small drug company in Spain to manufacture the drug.

On Dec. 30, 2021, Health Canada granted approval to move forward with the gene therapy for Michael Pirovolakis.

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“On March 24, 2022, my son was the first person to ever get treated with gene therapy at SickKids in Toronto,” Pirovolakis said.

The procedure, which involves injecting cerebral spinal fluid through a lumbar puncture, does come with risks — but the potential benefits are life-saving.

‘I couldn’t let them die’

After Michael Pirovolakis received the one-time treatment, there were three more doses left.

“We decided that we had to help other kids,” Pirovolakis said.

“When I heard that no one was going to do anything about it, I had to — I couldn’t let them die.”

Pirovolakis’ two older children, pictured with their little brother, Michael, bottom left, do not have the disease. (Terry Pirovolakis)

Pirovolakis opened up a Phase 2 study in the U.S., which treated three children two years ago.

One of those was 6-month-old Jack Lockard, the youngest child to ever receive the treatment.

“Jack has thrived since then,” Rebekah Lockard, the boy’s mother, told Fox News Digital.

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“He is sitting independently, banging toys together, drinking from a straw cup and working really hard on crawling.”

She added, “Doctors and therapists share the same sentiment: The treatment works!”

Other children who participated in the trial have experienced similar results, Lockard said.

The Lockard family, shown here, is fighting to raise funds to obtain treatment for their daughter Naomi, at right, who has SPG50. (Rebekah Lockard)

“They’ve all shown that their disease has stopped progressing and their cognition has improved.”

There are more children who still need the treatment — including Lockard’s first child, 3-year-old Naomi, who also has SPG50 — but are unable to access it because the clinical trial has now run out of money, as Fox News Digital previously reported.

‘Time is of the essence’

It costs about $1 million to make the drug for each child, Pirovolakis said, and another $300,000 or so to treat the patient in the U.S. at the hospital.

Pirovolakis has approached pharmaceutical companies, but all of them have declined to manufacture the drug.

“We want to make sure the trial moves on and these kids get treated.”

“No investor is going to give you money to treat a disease that is not going to make money,” he said. “That’s the dilemma we’re in.”

While Pirovolakis and his team are actively working to secure grants and investors, it’s largely up to the parents to raise funds for the next phase of the clinical trial.

So far, Lockard has raised more than $90,000 via GoFundMe (called “Naomi and Jack Battle SPG50”) to get her daughter’s treatment, but that is only a fraction of what is needed. (Rebekah Lockard)

So far, Lockard has raised more than $90,000 via GoFundMe (called “Naomi and Jack Battle SPG50”) to get her daughter’s treatment, but that is only a fraction of what is needed.

Penney noted that treatment for SPG50 is challenging and expensive to develop — “mainly because it’s a sporadic disease.”

The doctor told Fox News Digital, “Pharmaceutical companies often prioritize conditions that affect larger populations, with a more significant potential for recouping research and development costs.”

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“The market is much smaller for rare diseases like SPG50, making it financially less viable for companies to invest in creating a treatment.”

To devote himself to the cause, Pirovolakis quit his job and started a nonprofit in California, which now has five employees and 20 consultants.

The company — called Elpida Therapeutics, after the Greek word for “hope” — will run a Phase 3 study for SPG50 at the NIH in November.

Terry Pirovolakis, second from left, is pictured with members of his team at his nonprofit, Elpida Therapeutics. Elpida Therapeutics has partnered with the Columbus Children’s Foundation (Fundación Columbus in Spain) and CureSPG50 to help save children with the disease. (Pirovolakis)

Without the backing of major drug companies, however, there isn’t funding available to get the therapies to the children who need them.

Eight doses of the drug for SPG50 were produced in Spain and have been flown to the U.S.

“The treatment is here, just literally sitting in a refrigerator, ready to go,” Lockard said. “Doctors are ready. There just isn’t enough money to make it happen.”

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There are currently four families in the U.S. who are trying to raise the money that’s needed, according to Pirovolakis.

“Time is of the essence,” he said. “We want to make sure the trial moves on and these kids get treated.”

The end goal

Looking ahead to the Phase 3 clinical trial at the NIH, Pirovolakis’ goal is to treat eight children with SPG50.

“If we can show that it works in all eight children — and we can prove to the FDA that it is making a difference — then the drug will get approved and every child can get it,” he said.

Michael Pirovolakis is pictured walking with the aid of a walker. Spastic paraplegia 50 (SPG50) is a neurological disorder that affects a child’s development, gradually leading to cognitive impairment, muscle weakness, speech impairment and paralysis. (Terry Pirovolakis)

Ideally, after the drug is approved — which could take three to five years, Pirovolakis estimates — SPG50 will be added to hospitals’ newborn screening programs and every child with the disease will be able to get the therapy.

Elpida Therapeutics has partnered with the Columbus Children’s Foundation (Fundación Columbus in Spain) and CureSPG50 to help save children with the disease.

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“Our partnership with Elpida is driven by an unwavering commitment to leaving no child behind,” Sheila Mikhail, co-founder of the CCF, said in a statement to Fox News Digital.

“At the Columbus Children’s Foundation and Fundacion Columbus, as a global organization, we believe that every child deserves a chance for a healthy future. Together, we’re making groundbreaking strides in treating ultra-rare genetic disorders, ensuring that no child is left to face these challenges alone.”

“The biggest challenge in providing treatment for children with rare diseases often comes down to a lack of funding and vision.”

Pirovolakis said he gets several calls each week from families around the world, asking for help saving their children.

“Unfortunately, the biggest challenge in providing treatment for children with rare diseases often comes down to a lack of funding and vision,” he told Fox News Digital.

After Jack Lockard, pictured, received the gene therapy at 6 months old, the family soon noticed improvements in his cognitive and physical milestones. (Rebekah Lockard)

“The technology to cure our children is already here. I hope that someone with immense wealth — and more importantly, the vision and influence — will step in,” he said.

“Their support could not only impact a handful of diseases and children, but extend hope to thousands of rare diseases and millions of children, both this generation and the next.”

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Currently, 40 million Americans are living with a rare disease, and one in 10 will be afflicted by a potentially treatable rare condition.

Pirovolakis added, “Someone you know or love will likely be affected by a rare disease.”

43 days: Kamala Harris has yet to do formal press conference since emerging as Democratic nominee

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September 2, 2024

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Vice President Kamala Harris’ interview drought finally ended Thursday, but after 43 days as the presumptive and now official Democratic nominee for president, she has yet to hold an official press conference.

Under pressure to sit down for a substantive interview after weeks of stonewalling, she agreed to a sit-down with CNN’s Dana Bash on Thursday in Georgia, joined by running mate Tim Walz.

Harris defended some of her noted policy flip-flops on issues like fracking and immigration, saying her “values” hadn’t changed. She was also pressed on whether she had regrets about defending President Biden’s mental acuity after his debate, given he dropped out of the race less than a month later. She also said she wanted to “turn the page on the last decade of what I believe has been contrary to where the spirit of our country really lies.”

Bash pointed out Harris had been vice president for three-and-a-half of those years, but Harris countered she meant moving on from this “era,” seemingly referring to the political rise of Donald Trump that began in 2015.

Vice President Kamala Harris in her first sit-down interview with the media since rising to the top of the Democratic ticket. (CNN)

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Following Harris’ first sit-down interview, NBC News Washington correspondent Yamiche Alcindor, who is known for her glowing Biden-Harris coverage, appeared unimpressed.

“Harris keeps saying ‘my values haven’t changed’ while not explaining why her positions have changed,” Alcindor wrote.

As to when she’ll actually do a formal press conference, that day may never come. Sunday marks exactly six weeks since Biden dropped out of the race and endorsed Harris; no other Democrat challenged her and she quickly wrapped up the nomination from there.

“You will not see one press conference from her in the next 75 days until Election Day,” Fox News contributor Joe Concha predicted earlier this month.

NewsBusters managing editor Curtis Houck feels the vice president “obviously owes it to the American people to hold free-wheeling press conferences where reporters can, unlike what happened [Thursday] with CNN’s Dana Bash, ask follow-up questions.”

“For every softball from, say, ABC or NPR, you’ll hope a liberal journalist will show some courage to do the right thing,” Houck told Fox News Digital.

“The interview itself had a positive atmosphere. From the get-go in the hype video-like opening by Bash, CNN put forward a perception that this was an event, not a grinding fact-finding mission,” Houck continued. “She missed a litany of topics with Harris. Allowing death row inmates to vote, closing ICE, defunding the police, ending private insurance, girl’s sports, the filibuster, Jussie Smollett, the Minneapolis bail fund, systemic racism… those were just a few of the areas she could have touched on.”

Vice President Kamala Harris and Gov. Tim Walz in CNN interview.

Former President Trump has sought to highlight the contrast in media availability between the two, sitting for several lengthy interviews in recent weeks and also holding a pair of press conferences.

Harris received mixed reviews for her showing on Thursday with Bash, where she took the majority of the questions but nevertheless had Walz there for support.

One point that received praise from liberals was her pointed dismissal of a question about Trump’s suggestion that she didn’t embrace being Black until adulthood. Calling attacks around race from Trump a tired “playbook,” she told Bash to move on to the next question.

But conservative CNN commentator Scott Jennings said the Trump campaign should be “salivating” over one of the revelations from the interview, which appeared to be her embrace of so-called “Bidenomics.”

“She is making it clear that she will embrace and be a continuation of Biden’s economic policy — his record — what they’ve done,” he said. “She offered no remorse, no regrets, no introspection about anything they’ve done.”

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Kamala Harris kicks off a bus tour in battleground Georgia

Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris talks as she visits SandFly Bar-B-Q in Savannah, Ga., Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

By doing the interview, Harris met the bar she set three weeks ago that she wanted to schedule one by the end of the month. Whether pressure will grow for her to do more, and also her first solo interview as a candidate, remains to be seen.

“My fear is, because Bash wasn’t like, say, CBS’s Steve Kroft or NPR’s Steve Inskeep salivating at the sight of Barack Obama, the liberal media will claim this and the upcoming ABC debate are sufficient interview time for the campaign,” Houck said.

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Fox News Digital’s Paul Steinhauser contributed to this report.

Brian Flood is a media editor/reporter for FOX News Digital. Story tips can be sent to brian.flood@fox.com and on Twitter: @briansflood.

Justin Trudeau gets berated by Canadian steelworker in viral video

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September 2, 2024

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Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau got an earful during a photo op from a cash-strapped steelworker who told the leader his policies have left his family scratching to make ends meet.

Footage of the tense exchange in Sault Ste. Marie, a city in Ontario, which was obtained by CTV News, went viral. The unidentified worker spurned Trudeau’s offer of doughnuts to complain about high taxes, medical bills and giveaways to people he deemed “lazy.”

“The 25% tariffs we just brought in is going to help you out … that’s going to keep your job,” Trudeau told the man.

“What about the 40% taxes I am paying? And I don’t have a doctor,” the employee of Algoma Steel shot back.

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Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau (Spencer Colby/The Canadian Press via AP)

Trudeau responded by saying that a multimillion-dollar investment from the Canadian government meant the man would have a job “for many years to come.” The man responded by saying that he expected Trudeau to be voted out.

“That’s what elections are for,” said the Liberal Party leader, who stayed calm and collected during the exchange. “I look forward to everyone exercising the right to vote. … We are going to invest in you and your job.”

“I don’t believe you for a second,” the steelworker shot back.

The man also mentioned that he felt unemployed Canadians got better access to affordable health care than he did after Trudeau referenced an initiative to help hundreds of thousands of Canadians get dental care.

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Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau (Arlyn McAdorey/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

“Probably like my neighbor who doesn’t go to work because she’s lazy?” the steelworker asked.

“You know what? Most Canadians try to stick up for each other, and that’s what we’ve got to keep doing,” Trudeau responded before wishing the man good luck. At the end, the laborer appeared to refuse a handshake from Trudeau.

The next federal election in Canada is set to take place on Oct. 20, 2025. Trudeau’s government has been scrutinized amid a cost-of-living crisis affecting the country, though Trudeau has remained optimistic.

“Inflation came down last month, beating out expectations,” the prime minister wrote in a Facebook post on July 17. “But, until Canadians can feel that relief in their wallets, at the grocery store, and on their mortgages, the job’s not done.”

Trudeau during bilateral meeting with Zelenskyy

Justin Trudeau, Canada’s prime minister, center, is shown during a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, not pictured, on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Ontario, on Sept. 22, 2023. (Sean Kilpatrick/Canadian Press/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

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Fox News Digital reached out to Trudeau’s office for comment.

Women’s heart disease risk may be predicted years in advance with one blood test

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September 1, 2024

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Predicting a woman’s future heart disease risk could be as simple as administering a single blood test to screen for three risk factors.

That’s according to research published in The New England Journal of Medicine on Saturday — research that was also presented at the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Congress this weekend.

The study, which included nearly 30,000 women averaging 55 years of age, measured two types of fat in the bloodstream along with a certain type of protein with a blood test in 1993, then monitored the participants’ health for a 30-year period, the researchers said.

WHEN MEASURING HEART ATTACK RISK, ONE IMPORTANT RED FLAG IS OFTEN OVERLOOKED, DOCTORS SAY

“The strongest predictor of risk was a simple blood measure of inflammation known as high sensitivity C-reactive protein, or hsCRP, followed by cholesterol and lipoprotein(a),” lead study author Dr. Paul Ridker, director of the Center for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, told Fox News Digital.

The study, which included nearly 30,000 women averaging 55 years of age, measured two types of fat in the bloodstream along with a certain type of protein. (iStock)

“Knowing all three predicted risks not just at five or 10 years, but at 20 and 30 years, gives us a road map for how to target specific therapies for the individual patient, rather than an overly simple ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach,” he said.

C-reactive protein (CRP) is a protein made by the liver that rises when inflammation occurs in the body, according to Mayo Clinic.

High levels of the protein indicate an elevated risk of heart disease.

COLORADO CARDIAC NURSE, AFTER THREE HEART ATTACKS, OFFERS SURVIVAL TIPS: ‘LISTEN TO YOUR GUT’

LDL cholesterol — also known as the “bad” cholesterol — can build up in the arteries and raise the chances of heart attack or stroke, Mayo Clinic noted.

Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), is a type of LDL cholesterol that can also cause plaque buildup in the arteries.

“This is a large, convincing study that puts together three predictive blood tests that haven’t been looked at in this way before.”

Women with the highest levels of LDL cholesterol were found to have a 36% increased associated risk for heart disease compared to those with the lowest levels, the researchers found.

Those with the highest levels of Lp(a) had a 33% greater risk.

The highest levels of CRP put women at a 70% increased associated risk.

LDL cholesterol, also known as the “bad” cholesterol, can build up in the arteries and raise the chances of heart attack or stroke. (iStock)

Women who had high levels of all three measures were 1½ times more likely to experience a stroke and more than three times as likely to have coronary heart disease, the researchers found.

While most doctors measure cholesterol, very few measure hsCRP and Lp(a), Ridker noted.

THE 9 MOST COMMON QUESTIONS WOMEN OVER 40 ASK THEIR DOCTORS, ACCORDING TO A MENOPAUSE EXPERT

“It is a truism of medicine that doctors will not treat what they do not measure.”

The fact that a single combination blood test predicted risk 30 years later is “astonishing,” the researcher said.

“It is a truism of medicine that doctors will not treat what they do not measure.”

“It tells us how much silent risk we simply are unaware of, and gives us an opportunity to start preventive efforts far earlier in life,” he added.

Dr. Marc Siegel, senior medical analyst for Fox News and clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center, was not involved in the study, but said it is a “big step forward” in using a combination of blood tests to determine a woman’s cardiac risk.

“This is a large, convincing study that puts together three predictive blood tests that haven’t been looked at in this way before,” Siegel told Fox News Digital.

Women who had high levels of all three measures were 1½ times more likely to experience a stroke and more than three times more likely to have coronary heart disease. (iStock)

“Since inflammation can cause heart attacks, it is confirmatory that an elevated inflammation marker (CRP) conveys a 70% increased risk for heart disease,” he went on.

“LDL and Lp(a) have both previously shown an increased risk of heart disease.”

Siegel predicts that in the future, blood markers like these will be used in combination with artificial intelligence to determine the risk of heart disease and stroke.

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Based on these findings, Ridker recommends that patients ask their physicians to specifically measure hsCRP and Lp(a).

“The time has come for our guidelines to change.”

Some patients will benefit from drug therapies to reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol levels, the researcher said. (iStock)

In Ridker’s experience, women tend to be less concerned about heart disease than men.

“Unfortunately, our traditional screening guidelines rarely identify at-risk women until they are in their late 60s or 70s,” he said.

“Yet prevention must start in our 30s and 40s for it to be most effective.”

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While prevention efforts should initially focus on a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, smoking cessation and stress management, some patients will benefit from drug therapies to reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol levels, according to Ridker.

Based on these findings, the researchers recommend that patients ask their physicians to specifically measure hsCRP and Lp(a). (iStock)

The main limitation of the study is that the women who participated were health professionals, the researchers acknowledged.

“Yet in other settings, we know this is also true for men — and, if anything, an even greater concern for minority individuals,” Ridker said.

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

The research was funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), and the National Cancer Institute (NCI).

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.

This sneaky malware is after your passwords and personal data

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Reporters News Wire

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September 1, 2024

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Apple Macs have historically been targeted less by hackers than Windows devices, but this trend is shifting. In recent months, there has been an increase in malware specifically targeting macOS while leaving Windows systems unaffected.

Security researchers uncovered a new threat called “Cthulhu Stealer,” which has emerged, impersonating popular apps to harvest passwords and steal data from macOS users.

The perception of Macs being inherently more secure is evolving as cybercriminals increasingly develop malware for Apple’s operating system. While Macs still face fewer overall threats compared to Windows PCs, the gap is narrowing.

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A man working on his Mac (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

How this ‘malware-as-a-service’ targets your Mac

Cthulhu Stealer malware has been available under a malware-as-a-service (MaaS) model for $500 a month since late 2023, Cado Security discovered.

“Cthulhu Stealer is an Apple disk image (DMG) that is bundled with two binaries, depending on the architecture,” Cado Security researcher Tara Gould said. “The malware is written in Golang and disguises itself as legitimate software.”

The malware pretends to be legitimate software, mimicking programs like CleanMyMac, Grand Theft Auto IV and Adobe GenP. Adobe GenP, in particular, is an open-source tool used to bypass Adobe’s Creative Cloud service and activate apps without paying.

Once you install the malware disguised as a legit app and try to open it, macOS will warn you that it isn’t reliable. Ignoring the warning and continuing will prompt you to enter your password. After that, you’ll see a second prompt asking for your MetaMask password. The malware then creates a directory in ‘/Users/Shared/NW’ and stores the credentials in text files. Chainbreak is used to dump Keychain passwords, which are saved in a file called Keychain.txt.

With the required permissions in place, Cthulhu Stealer can grab a wide range of sensitive data, including saved passwords from iCloud Keychain, web browser cookies and even Telegram account details.

“The main functionality of Cthulhu Stealer is to steal credentials and cryptocurrency wallets from various stores, including game accounts,” Gould explained.

A woman working on two Macs (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

4.3 MILLION AMERICANS EXPOSED IN MASSIVE HEALTH SAVINGS ACCOUNT DATA BREACH

Hackers are preying on Mac users

There has been an increase in malware and vulnerabilities affecting Mac users. Recently, researchers at Cisco Talos discovered a vulnerability in Microsoft apps that could allow hackers to steal all your data and gain control of your system.

Plus, a stealer malware called Banshee is targeting over 100 browsers on Mac devices to steal passwords, cryptocurrency and personal data. These threats are in addition to the numerous data breaches we’ve seen throughout the year. This should act as a reminder that you need to take your cybersecurity seriously.

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A woman works on a laptop (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

MASSIVE SECURITY FLAW PUTS MOST POPULAR BROWSERS AT RISK ON MAC

5 tips to protect yourself from Mac malware

Follow these essential tips to safeguard your Mac from the latest malware threats, including the notorious Cthulhu Stealer.

1. Have strong antivirus software: 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.

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2. Be cautious with downloads and links: Only download software from reputable sources such as the Mac App Store or official websites of trusted developers. Be wary of unsolicited emails or messages prompting you to download or install updates, especially if they contain links. Phishing attempts often disguise themselves as legitimate update notifications or urgent messages.

3. Keep your software updated: Ensure that both macOS and all installed applications are up to date. Apple frequently releases security patches and updates that address vulnerabilities. Enable automatic updates for macOS and your apps to stay protected without having to manually check for updates. If you need more help, see my guide on keeping all your devices updated.

4. Use strong and unique passwords: To protect your Mac from malware, it’s also crucial to use strong, unique passwords for all your accounts and devices. Avoid reusing passwords across different sites or services. A password manager can be incredibly helpful here. It generates and stores complex passwords for you, making them difficult for hackers to crack.

It also keeps track of all your passwords in one place and automatically fills them in when you log into accounts, so you don’t have to remember them yourself. By reducing the number of passwords you need to recall, you’re less likely to reuse them, which lowers the risk of security breaches. Get more details about my best expert-reviewed Password Managers of 2024 here.

5. Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Enable 2FA for your important accounts, including your Apple ID, email and any financial services. This adds an extra step to the login process, making it harder for attackers to gain access even if they have your password.

HOW TO REMOVE YOUR PRIVATE DATA FROM THE INTERNET

Kurt’s key takeaway

Macs aren’t as safe from hackers as they used to be. With malware like Cthulhu Stealer and Banshee targeting Mac users, it’s a good reminder to step up your cybersecurity game. These threats can steal your passwords, data and even cryptocurrency, so investing in solid antivirus software and being cautious with what you download is more important than ever.

When downloading new software, how do you determine if it’s safe to install? Do you rely on app store ratings, reviews or something else? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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

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Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

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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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California’s first electric train could be what’s coming to your city

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September 1, 2024

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All aboard. California’s transportation landscape is getting a major upgrade as Caltrain, the oldest continuously operated railroad in the West, ushers in a new age of electric trains.

This isn’t just any old train ride. It’s a journey into the future of public transit.

Electric train (Caltrain)

Caltrain’s electric debut

Picture this. It’s a sunny day in San Francisco, and a sleek, modern train pulls into the station. But there’s something different about this one. No diesel fumes, no rumbling engine. Just a quiet hum of electricity. That’s right, folks. After nearly a decade of construction and 160 years of history, Caltrain is going electric.

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On a momentous day, Caltrain was joined by federal, state and local officials, along with transportation, business and labor leaders, to celebrate the inaugural electric train ride. This VIP tour allowed participants to experience firsthand the cutting-edge electric fleet that represents a landmark shift toward a faster, more frequent and environmentally friendly public transportation network along the San Francisco Peninsula.

The first regular electric train service kicked off Aug. 11. More electric trains will be introduced each week until the full electrified service launches Sept. 21.

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Inaugural electric train ride (Caltrain)

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What’s the big deal?

You might be wondering, “So what? It’s just a train, right?” Wrong! This is a game-changer. These new electric trains can zip between San Francisco and San Jose in under an hour. Plus, they’re increasing service by 20% because they can speed up and slow down faster than their diesel counterparts. This means more robust and flexible access to cities throughout the rail system, with 16 stations seeing trains every 15-20 minutes during peak hours and all stations receiving service every 30 minutes on weekends.

Comfort is king on these new trains. They come equipped with Wi-Fi, digital onboard displays, power outlets at every seat, improved climate control, baby-changing tables in the bathrooms and expanded storage under the cantilevered seats.

HOW TO REMOVE YOUR PRIVATE DATA FROM THE INTERNET

Electric train fleet (Caltrain)

THIS FLYING ELECTRIC VEHICLE BREAKS RECORD WITH 523-MILE NONSTOP FLIGHT

Reducing emissions for a cleaner future

By switching from diesel to electric, Caltrain is cutting a whopping 250,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually. That’s like taking 55,000 cars off the road each year. This transition not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also improves air quality and relieves traffic congestion, contributing to ambitious regional and state climate action goals.

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Electric train fleet (Caltrain)

GIANT BATTERY-POWERED DUMP TRUCK DUMPS DIESEL FOR ELECTRIC

A boost for the economy and community

The Caltrain Electrification Project isn’t just about transportation. It’s also a significant economic driver. The project has created 33,000 jobs across 36 states, fueling economic growth and innovation within local communities and nationwide. This collaborative effort to manufacture the electric trains and infrastructure underscores a commitment to sustainability and job creation.

Moreover, the electrification project advances equity along the corridor by reducing noise and air pollution while increasing access and service for equity-priority communities by 26%. It’s a win-win for both the environment and the community.

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Electric train fleet (Caltrain)

THE BEST TRAVEL GEAR FOR 2024

Paving the way for a sustainable tomorrow

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg summed it up perfectly.

“The future of California’s rail systems will be powered by clean, renewable energy,” setting a standard for other rail systems to follow in the effort to reduce carbon pollution across the country, he said.

With enhanced amenities, increased service frequency and a commitment to sustainability, these trains are set to transform the daily travel experience. So, whether you’re a commuter or a curious traveler, now is the perfect time to hop on board and witness the future of transit in action.

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Electric trains (Caltrain)

Kurt’s key takeaways

As we stand on the brink of this new era in public transportation, the launch of California’s first electric train marks a significant milestone not just for Caltrain, but for the entire Bay Area. This transition to electric service promises not only faster and more reliable commutes but also a cleaner environment, reduced emissions and improvement in air quality for generations to come.

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What features or improvements would you like to see in future public transit initiatives to enhance your commuting 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

Follow Kurt on his social channels

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

New from Kurt:

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

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Israeli-American hostage abducted at music festival on Oct. 7 confirmed dead

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Reporters News Wire

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September 1, 2024

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Israeli-American hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin has been confirmed dead, his family announced early Sunday.

Goldberg-Polin, 23, was abducted at a music festival in southern Israel during Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack against the Jewish State. He lost part of his left arm to a grenade in the attack.

His body was recovered Saturday in the tunnels under Rafah, along with five other hostages, after being killed by Hamas.

A dual U.S.-Israeli citizen, he immigrated to Israel with his family in 2008 at the age of seven, according to a statement from his family. He leaves behind his parents, Jon Polin and Rachel Goldberg, and his two sisters.

DEFENSE MINISTER SAYS ISRAEL MUST ‘WIDEN THE GOALS’ OF WAR TO RETURN RESIDENTS TO THE NORTH

Israeli-American hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin has been confirmed dead. (Israel’s Minister of Defense)

Goldberg-Polin’s family and friends traveled the world demanding his release and met with world leaders, including officials in the Biden administration.

President Biden said he is “devastated and outraged” by the news of Goldberg-Polin’s death.

“It is as tragic as it is reprehensible,” he said. “Make no mistake, Hamas leaders will pay for these crimes. And we will keep working around the clock for a deal to secure the release of the remaining hostages.”

Vice President Kamala Harris, also the Democratic nominee for president, said her prayers are with Goldberg-Polin’s loved ones as they mourn his loss.

“Hamas is an evil terrorist organization,” Harris said. “With these murders, Hamas has even more American blood on its hands. I strongly condemn Hamas’ continued brutality, and so must the entire world. From its massacre of 1,200 people to sexual violence, taking of hostages, and these murders, Hamas’ depravity is evident and horrifying.”

ISRAEL KILLS PALESTINIAN COMMANDER MUHAMMAD JABER ‘ABU SHUJAA’ AS FIGHTING INTENSIFIES: IDF

Goldberg-Polin, 23, was abducted at a music festival in southern Israel during Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack. (IDF)

“The threat Hamas poses to the people of Israel — and American citizens in Israel — must be eliminated and Hamas cannot control Gaza,” she added. “The Palestinian people too have suffered under Hamas’ rule for nearly two decades.”

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The other bodies recovered on Saturday are Carmel Gat, Eden Yerushalmi, Alexander Lobanov, Almog Sarusi and Master Sergeant Ori Danino.

The six victims were shot by their captors shortly before Israeli Defense Forces arrived, according to the IDF. Israeli President Isaac Herzog said he “embrace[s] their families with all my heart, and apologize[s] for failing to bring them home safely.”

“A few hours ago, we informed the families that the bodies of their loved ones had been located by IDF troops in an underground tunnel in Rafah,” IDF Spokesperson, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said in a statement. “According to our initial assessment, they were brutally murdered by Hamas terrorists shortly before we reached them.”

Fox News’ Yonat Friling contributed to this report.

Coming in just a few mins: COVID vaccine distrust growing among Americans, survey finds: ‘Should be a personal choice’

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August 31, 2024

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A growing number of Americans are skeptical of vaccines for COVID and other infectious diseases, according to the most recent national health survey by the Annenberg Public Policy Center at the University of Pennsylvania.

More than a quarter of respondents (28%) said they believe the COVID vaccines have contributed to thousands of deaths, according to a press release. This is an increase from 22% in June 2021.

Meanwhile, 22% of respondents said they are under the assumption that it is safer to contract COVID than it would be to get vaccinated — an increase from 10% in April 2021.

NEW COVID VACCINES GET FDA APPROVAL FOR 2024-2025 SEASON

Also, 15% of Americans said they believe the vaccine “changes people’s DNA,” up from 8% since the last survey.

The survey gathered input from nearly 1,500 U.S. adults.

A growing number of Americans are skeptical of vaccines for COVID and other infectious diseases, according to the most recent national health survey by the Annenberg Public Policy Center at the University of Pennsylvania. (iStock)

“Belief in these three misconceptions is associated with increased reluctance to vaccinate,” said Kathleen Hall Jamieson, director of the Annenberg Public Policy Center and director of the survey, in the release.

The survey also found that only 20% of people are “somewhat or very worried” that they or a family member will be infected with COVID, compared to 25% in February 2024 and 35% in October 2023, the researchers shared.

RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH THE COVID VACCINE IDENTIFIED IN STUDY

The results come just after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)’s approval of updated COVID vaccines.

“With the CDC reporting that COVID-19 infection remains an ongoing threat and an updated vaccine available, now is the time to ramp up awareness both of the value of vaccinating against COVID-19 and of the risks of contracting the disease,” Jamieson added.

Fox News Digital reached out to the study researchers for comment.

The results come just after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)’s approval of updated COVID vaccines. (PASCAL GUYOT/AFP via Getty Images)

Dr. Brett Osborn, a Florida neurosurgeon and longevity expert, was not involved in the survey but commented on its findings to Fox News Digital.

“Mainstream narratives continue to emphasize the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines, but it’s important to take a closer look at the full picture, particularly when considering the risks and benefits of vaccination versus natural immunity — especially in 2024,” he said.

One of the most publicized risks associated with mRNA vaccines is myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle, Osborn noted — particularly in younger males.

“It’s important to take a closer look at the full picture … when considering the risks and benefits.”

“Although rare, the occurrence of myocarditis is a serious risk, leading to hospitalization and, in some cases, long-term health issues or death,” he said.

Additional risks include neurological complications, including Guillain-Barré syndrome, and other nervous system-related issues like acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM), the doctor said.

Studies have consistently shown that natural immunity, developed after recovering from an infection, is often more comprehensive and longer-lasting than vaccine-induced immunity, a doctor noted. (iStock)

“While these are not common, their existence is undeniable, and they highlight the need for further discussion about the potential risks of vaccination, especially given the lack of long-term studies,” he told Fox News Digital.

“After all, these vaccines are only several years old and, therefore, have not been vetted appropriately – so, in essence, Americans are the ‘study cohort.’”

CDC RECOMMENDS ADDITIONAL COVID VACCINE FOR ADULTS 65 AND OVER

As far as whether the vaccine changes humans’ DNA, Osborn said that is a myth.

“The mRNA in these vaccines instructs cells to produce a spike protein, which triggers an immune response, and then the mRNA is quickly broken down and eliminated from the body,” he said.

“There is no evidence to suggest that mRNA can integrate into human DNA.”

The COVID landscape has “drastically changed” since it emerged in 2020, a doctor said. “The current strains of the virus, being RNA-based, have undergone numerous mutations that have generally made them less virulent.” (Jeff Kowalsky/AFP via Getty Images))

The doctor called for transparent communication from health authorities to dispel myths, while also addressing legitimate concerns about the long-term effects of “novel vaccine technology.”

Osborn also pointed out that the COVID landscape has “drastically changed” since the virus emerged in 2020.

“The current strains of the virus, being RNA-based, have undergone numerous mutations that have generally made them less virulent,” he said.

“This is not about being anti-vaccine, but about making informed, balanced decisions based on the current scientific evidence and the realities of the virus.”

“As a result, for the vast majority of the population — particularly those who are healthy and under 60 — a COVID-19 infection today is more likely to result in mild, flu-like symptoms rather than severe illness or death.”

In light of this, Osborn said, it may be reasonable to question the push for widespread vaccination — “especially when natural infection can lead to robust, long-lasting immunity.”

“There is a big upsurge of COVID FLirt subvariants right now, and the vaccine specifically covers these,” a doctor told Fox News Digital. (iStock)

Studies have consistently shown that natural immunity, developed after recovering from an infection, is often more comprehensive and longer-lasting than vaccine-induced immunity, according to Osborn.

“While vaccines have played an essential role in controlling the pandemic, the evolving landscape demands a nuanced approach that respects individual choice, acknowledges the risks in the context of the benefits, and recognizes the power of natural immunity,” the doctor said.

“This is not about being anti-vaccine, but about making informed, balanced decisions based on the current scientific evidence and the realities of the virus as it exists today.”

FLORIDA SURGEON GENERAL WARNS AGAINST COVID VACCINE

Dr. Marc Siegel, senior medical analyst for Fox News and clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center, said he recommends the updated COVID vaccines for high-risk groups.

“I believe the vaccines remain effective at decreasing risks of severe disease and long COVID, and should especially be considered in high-risk groups, including those with chronic diseases and the elderly,” he told Fox News Digital just after the FDA’s approval of the new vaccines for 2024-2025.

A relaxed woman takes a nap on a couch, holding a mug of coffee

“For the vast majority of the population — particularly those who are healthy and under 60 — a COVID-19 infection today is more likely to result in mild, flu-like symptoms rather than severe illness or death,” a doctor said. (iStock)

“Beyond this, it should be a personal choice, a discussion between doctor and patient, keeping in mind that viral load and transmission does decrease somewhat in the period after immunization.”

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Regarding the potential side effects, Siegel stated that the risks of the virus — including myocarditis and brain fog — are “far greater,” and that the vaccine decreases those risks.

“It’s far from perfect, but still quite useful,” the doctor said.

“I believe the vaccines remain effective at decreasing risks of severe disease and long COVID, and should especially be considered in high-risk groups.”

“There is a big upsurge of COVID FLirt subvariants right now, and the vaccine specifically covers these.”

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older receive the updated COVID-19 vaccination. That includes women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

As of the week ending Aug. 24, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that 17% of COVID tests were positive.

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

Meanwhile, 2.5% of those visiting emergency departments were diagnosed as COVID-19 — a drop of 1% from the prior week.

The percentage of deaths related to COVID was 2.2%, per the CDC, up from 1.9% the prior week.

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.

What type of scam is this?

What to do if you receive one of these scam emails?

1) Flag the email

2) Don’t open any attachments or links

3) Do not respond to the email or reach out to these scammers over the phone or any other method

4) Go directly to the source

8 ways to prevent phishing scammers from reaching you

1) Verify or sign up for a Social Security account

2) Use two-factor authentication

3) Keep software and systems updated

4) Secure your personal information

5) Have strong antivirus software

6) Invest in personal data removal services

7) Use an identity theft protection service

8) Directly reach out to the real organizations for verification

Kurt’s key takeaways

The lunar power grid on the moon

Powering the moon, one tower at a time

Creating a connected lunar network

Kurt’s key takeaways

What is SPG50?

A father’s mission

‘I couldn’t let them die’

‘Time is of the essence’

The end goal

How this ‘malware-as-a-service’ targets your Mac

Hackers are preying on Mac users

5 tips to protect yourself from Mac malware

Kurt’s key takeaway

Caltrain’s electric debut

What’s the big deal?

Reducing emissions for a cleaner future

A boost for the economy and community

Paving the way for a sustainable tomorrow

Kurt’s key takeaways

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