Anti-Israel agitators stage massive protest in Washington, DC, amid Netanyahu's US visit

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July 25, 2024

AFTER BIDEN DROPS OUT OF RACE, DOCTORS REVEAL WHY THE DECISION MAY HAVE BEEN BEST FOR HIS HEALTH

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After President Joe Biden’s address to the nation Wednesday night, multiple doctors shared their opinions with Fox News Digital about his perceived health status based on his live speech.

Seated in the Oval Office, the president spoke relatively briefly about his withdrawal from the 2024 race and his commitment to continuing to serve the country for the next few months.

He did not mention his recent COVID-19 infection, ongoing concerns about his cognitive health, or the recent assassination attempt on the life of former President Donald Trump.

Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and a Fox News medical contributor — who has never treated the president — noted that Biden seemed to be reading from a teleprompter on Wednesday night, as he often does, making it difficult for those watching to gauge his medical fitness.

Although Biden stumbled over his words a few times, Siegel was more concerned about the president’s apparent “lack of emotion.”

President Joe Biden addresses the nation from the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, Wednesday, July 24, 2024, about his decision to drop his Democratic presidential reelection bid. (Getty Images)

“It is a very emotional time for him and he isn’t showing it,” the doctor told Fox News Digital after the speech. “He seems to lack conviction.”

JOE BIDEN WITH COVID AT AGE 81: WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT THE RISK THE VIRUS POSES TO OLDER ADULTS

Siegel expressed concern that Biden “could be depressed and shocked by the current reality.”

“I feel compassion for him,” Siegel went on. “How can he quote from the Declaration [of Independence] without much conviction? I feel bad for him and for us.”

“It is a very emotional time for him and he isn’t showing it.”

Dr. Robert Lufkin, a California-based physician and medical school professor at UCLA and USC, also weighed in on Biden.

Lufkin noted that he has never examined Biden, but offered his observations based on Wednesday’s speech and recent media events.

BIDEN HEALTH CONCERNS PERSIST AS HE MAKES FIRST APPEARANCE AFTER ENDING CAMPAIGN

In previous appearances, Biden has shown signs of “cognitive deterioration,” the doctor told Fox News Digital.

“The findings in his previous presentations could have a variety of causes, including sleep deprivation, sedation, metabolic abnormalities or even neurodegenerative diseases.”

From left to right, Dr. Earnest Lee Murray; Dr. Marc Siegel; and Dr. Robert Lufkin offered observations about the president’s Wednesday night speech. (Dr. Earnest Lee Murray; Dr. Marc Siegel; Dr. Robert Lufkin)

Tonight’s short presentation appeared to be read from a teleprompter, Lufkin agreed — “which is less demanding than the more spontaneous Q&A debate format of some of his previous events.”

In previous appearances, such as the June 27 debate, Biden has shown “confused rambling, sudden loss of train of thought in the middle of a sentence, halting speech, and the repeated use of the word ‘anyway’ when lost in a sentence,” Lufkin noted.

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“Tonight, we did not see these in his presentation,” he said. “His delivery was fairly uniform without interruptions.”

The fact that these findings were less apparent tonight could be due to the speech format of the presentation and use of a teleprompter, according to Lufkin.

President Joe Biden addresses the nation from the Oval Office

Biden addressed the nation from the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, Wednesday, July 24, 2024. “That format is much less challenging and less likely to uncover pathology than a more rigorous Q&A exchange or debate format,” a doctor told Fox News Digital. (Evan Vucci, Pool via AP)

“That format is much less challenging and less likely to uncover pathology than a more rigorous Q&A exchange or debate format,” he went on.

He said he hoped that “continued interactions with Mr. Biden in various presentation formats will allow us to understand his situation in more detail.”

“I suspect the stress of trying to run for office and be president was leading to even worse daily cognitive performance,” said a neurologist on Wednesday night after watching Biden’s speech. Above, the president on Wednesday after returning to public view after nearly a week of seclusion due to COVID. (Getty Images)

Dr. Earnest Lee Murray, a board-certified neurologist at Jackson-Madison County General Hospital in Jackson, Tennessee, said the speech from the Oval Office was “clearly better” for Biden than the debate, but also noted that the president struggled at times with reading the teleprompter.

Murray has not treated or examined Biden.

“Reading simple passages do become difficult in patients with dementia,” he told Fox News Digital, expressing a professional opinion in general about such cases.

“I suspect the stress of trying to run for office and be president was leading to even worse daily cognitive performance.”

“Patients with a dementing process have significant difficulties with multitasking,” said Murray, again speaking generally.

“President Biden seemed more rested and relaxed tonight,” Murray said.

“I suspect the stress of trying to run for office and be president was leading to even worse daily cognitive performance,” he also said.

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In response to earlier outreach from Fox News Digital, the White House press office stated that “health was not a factor” in the president’s decision to withdraw from the 2024 race.

“He looks forward to finishing his term and delivering more historic results for the American people,” the White House said in its statement.

Doctors back Biden dropping out of race, plus health issues in past presidents

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July 24, 2024

President Biden’s announcement that he is stepping out of the presidential race sparked questions about his health. Dr. Marc Siegel (top left) and Dr. Brett Osborn (top right) share their reactions. Also, learn how past presidents have endured similar complications. (Fox News; Getty Images; Dr. Brett Osborn)

DOCTORS’ APPROVAL – Two doctors explain why President Biden’s decision to back out of the 2024 election may have been best for his health. Continue reading…

VIRAL CONCERNS – As President Biden makes his first public appearance since contracting COVID-19, concerns about his health persist. Continue reading…

MEDICAL HISTORY – Before Joe Biden, these 5 past presidents battled health issues ahead of re-election. Continue reading…

U.S. Presidents woodrow wilson, Franklin Roosevelt and teddy roosevelt

(left to right) U.S. Presidents Woodrow Wilson, Franklin Roosevelt and Theodore Roosevelt all endured health complications while in office or running for re-election. (Getty Images)

DEADLY BACTERIA – A listeria infection linked to deli meats has killed two people and affected 28 across the U.S., the CDC warns. Continue reading…

DEMENTIA DISCOVERY – Mayo Clinic has identified a new type of memory loss that’s often mistaken for Alzheimer’s. Doctors break down the findings. Continue reading…

‘STAY BEAUTIFUL’ – A new study from the University of Vermont found that Taylor Swift has had a mostly positive impact on body image and diet culture. Experts weigh in. Continue reading…

Researchers share with Fox News Digital how the Taylor Swift’s music and experience with disordered eating have had a “profound impact.” (Getty Images; iStock)

REST ON THE ROAD – Sleep and travel don’t always mix. Experts share 7 tips on getting restful sleep during the summer vacation season. Continue reading…

TRAIL TRAGEDY – Another heat-related hiking death spotlights the need for safety protocols. Experts share 9 things to know before hitting the trail. Continue reading…

ASK A DOCTOR – “Is it safe to swim underwater with your eyes open?” Ophthalmologist Dr. Brian Boxer Wachler has the answer. Continue reading…

It may be tempting to open your eyes underwater, but experts warn that prolonged exposure could put your vision at risk. (iStock)

This article was written by Fox News staff.

Seniors more likely to miss doctors’ appointments in extreme heat or cold, study finds

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July 24, 2024

MOST US ADULTS WORRY ABOUT FUTURE OF MEDICARE, SOCIAL SECURITY, GALLUP POLL FINDS: ‘MAGNITUDE OF CONCERN’

Whether it’s the dog days of summer or a cold snap in the dead of winter, extreme temperatures tend to bring people’s activities to a halt — including doctors’ appointments.

Seniors in particular are more likely to skip their scheduled medical visits if it’s too hot or too cold, according to a study from the American Journal of Preventative Medicine.

On days that are 90 degrees or hotter, for every 1 degree increase in temperature, the rate of missed appointments rises by 0.64%, as reported by researchers at the Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The rate of missed appointments is even higher on cold days, going up by 0.72% for every 1-degree decrease below 39 degrees.

“The key finding is that people are less likely to keep their doctors’ appointments when it is extremely hot or extremely cold,” said senior author Nathalie S. May, M.D., a professor at Drexel University College of Medicine, in a statement to Fox News Digital.

Seniors are more likely to skip their scheduled medical visits if it’s too hot or too cold outside, according to a new study from the American Journal of Preventative Medicine. (iStock)

In the study, the researchers analyzed more than one million appointments involving 91,560 adult patients from Jan. 2009 through Dec. 2019.

EARLY DEMENTIA OFTEN HAS A SURPRISING WARNING SIGN, REPORT SAYS: ‘FINANCIAL CONSEQUENCES’

The appointments were all made at 13 university outpatient clinics in Philadelphia, according to a university press release.

The appointment data was compared to temperature and precipitation records from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Based on the findings, the researchers are calling for telemedicine to become a permanent covered mode of health care delivery. (iStock)

Lakelyn Eichenberger, PhD, a gerontologist and caregiver advocate at Home Instead, an Honor Company in Omaha, Nebraska, said she was not surprised by the study findings.

“For many older adults, going to a doctor’s appointment takes considerable effort, especially for those with mobility issues, chronic conditions, complex medical needs or cognitive impairment,” Eichenberger, who was not involved in the research, told Fox News Digital via email.

“When you add extreme or inclement weather, it presents even more challenges. For some, it might seem easier to skip the appointment altogether to avoid the risks that extreme conditions could pose.”

THROUGH NEW PILOT PROJECT, MEDICAL MARIJUANA COULD BECOME MORE ACCESSIBLE TO SENIOR CITIZENS

Shana Johnson, a physician in Scottsdale, Arizona, who teaches at the University of Arizona College of Medicine in Phoenix, also commented on the findings.

“Individuals with heart and lung conditions, including heart failure, asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, have a hard time tolerating extreme heat,” said Johnson, who was also not involved in the study.

“The heat may exacerbate their symptoms, making breathing as well as dizziness and falls more likely.”

“For many older adults, going to a doctor’s appointment takes considerable effort.”

In her own practice, Johnson has seen many patients who had disabilities or difficulty walking.

“Transportation to the visit and walking safely were greatly affected by the weather,” she said.

“Cold temperatures, which often come with heavy rain or snow, make surfaces slippery, increasing the risk of falls and injuries.”

If the weather is poor, cancellations and no-shows tend to increase, she noted.

4 ways to prevent skipped appointments

“It is critical that we have alternative methods for the delivery of primary care during various scenarios,” Adrienne Willard, M.D., associate professor of medicine at the Drexel University College of Medicine, told Fox News Digital.

Experts recommend scheduling appointments during times when the weather is typically more favorable. (iStock)

Experts offered the following tips to ensure that seniors make it to essential appointments despite challenging weather conditions.

1. Plan ahead to ensure safety

Schedule appointments during times when the weather is typically more favorable, Eichenberger suggested.

“For example, avoid early morning appointments in winter when sidewalks might be icy, and avoid mid-afternoon appointments during the hottest part of the day,” she advised.

RETIREMENT AND LONELINESS: 3 TIPS FOR SENIORS TO COMBAT SADNESS DURING THEIR GOLDEN YEARS

“Monitor weather forecasts and reschedule appointments if extreme weather is expected — it’s better to err on the side of caution.”

Allow plenty of time to get ready and travel safely to your destination, Eichenberger said.

“Be prepared for weather-related delays or breakdowns during travel by carrying water to stay hydrated and snacks to avoid hunger and lightheadedness,” an expert advised. (iStock)

“Dress in layers during cold weather and wear appropriate footwear to prevent slips and falls,” she said.

“In hot weather, opt for light, breathable clothing and use sun protection, such as hats and sunscreen.”

2. Consider telehealth appointments when possible

Based on the findings, the researchers are calling for telemedicine to become a permanent, covered mode of health care delivery — as it was during the COVID pandemic.

Previous studies have shown that the availability of telemedicine reduces the chances of missed appointments by 13%, they noted.

“If the opportunity to choose an [insurance] plan that provides coverage for telemedicine presents itself, it may be a preferred option,” Willard told Fox News Digital.

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Johnson agreed that telemedicine is the “most practical and immediate solution,” particularly for individuals with chronic conditions who are well-known to their providers.

“Telemedicine increases access to care providers and extends the reach of specialists to rural areas,” she said. “Telemedicine across state lines would extend that reach further.”

3. Find reliable transportation

For patients who still drive, ensure the car is serviced regularly to avoid car trouble, Eichenberger recommended.

If the patient no longer drives, it’s important to arrange for reliable transportation options.

“Telemedicine increases access to care providers and extends the reach of specialists to rural areas,” a doctor said. (iStock)

“This could include asking family members or friends for help — or using home care services, ride-sharing services or senior transportation programs.”

For those using public transportation, Eichenberger stressed the need to seek shelter while waiting for the bus to avoid being out in the weather.

4. Have the essentials on hand

“Be prepared for weather-related delays or breakdowns during travel by carrying water to stay hydrated and snacks to avoid hunger and lightheadedness,” Eichenberger said.

If traveling by car, she recommends keeping an emergency kit with essentials such as water, snacks, blankets and a first-aid kit — as well as any necessary medications that need to be taken throughout the day.

Potential limitations

The researchers acknowledged some limitations of the study — particularly that it relies on limited data sets.

“We acknowledge that the data collected on maximum daily temperatures from one central location may not capture urban heat island effects throughout the city,” Drexel College of Medicine clinical associate professor Janet H. Fitzpatrick, M.D., one of the lead authors of the study, told Fox News Digital via email.

“It is critical that we have alternative methods for the delivery of primary care during various scenarios.”

“In addition, patients with multiple medical problems impacted the ability to explore how individual diseases affect the associations between extreme weather and missed appointments.”

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/health

Other research has pointed to additional factors — such as the day of the week, previous no-shows and the use of automated reminders — as impacting the rate of attendance, according to a university press release.

The researchers recommend considering the availability of transportation in future studies assessing missed appointments.

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.

Dengue surges in UAE after record-breaking rainfall leaves ideal conditions for mosquitoes

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July 24, 2024

LOCAL DENGUE FEVER CASES CONFIRMED IN FLORIDA KEYS, SPREAD BY MOSQUITO BITES

Dengue has spiked worldwide. The World Health Organization declared it an emergency in December as cases have globally increased tenfold over the last generation.
The United Arab Emirates have issued many warnings about dengue. Mosquitoes spread dengue and have flourished in the UAE after it experienced record-setting rainfall.
While the UAE did not answer questions regarding the number of cases, activists say that laborers are being hit the hardest by the virus.

Since the United Arab Emirates witnessed its heaviest recorded rainfall ever three months ago, the desert nation has issued a multitude of warnings about dengue which, activists say, has surged and struck hardest among the vast populations of laborers.

The tropical disease, spread by mosquitoes, has witnessed a worldwide spike. The World Health Organization declared it an emergency in December as cases have globally increased tenfold over the last generation.

Many people infected by the virus are asymptomatic, but some experience headaches, fever and flu-like symptoms. Severe cases can lead to serious bleeding, shock and death.

In the UAE, a federation of seven sheikhdoms, the disease has usually spread due to travel on long-haul carriers into the country. However, on April 25, the Department of Health alerted that locally transmitted cases without travel history have been documented since 2023 “as a result of climate change and an environment conducive to mosquito breeding.”

Changes in weather patterns turn countries previously inhospitable to Dengue-carrying mosquitoes into possible habitats.

The April deluges, which flooded portions of major highways and Dubai’s international airport, only amplified the risk in the Gulf country. While major thoroughfares quickly saw vacuum pumps arrive, others remained saddled for weeks with stagnant pools of water, where virus-carrying mosquitoes lay their eggs and spread the disease.

An abandoned vehicle stands in floodwater covering a major road in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on April 18, 2024, after heavy thunderstorms. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike, File)

No official figures have been shared in the Emirates where broad laws severely restrict freedom of speech and almost all major local media are either state-owned or state-affiliated outlets. Queries sent to various governmental organizations about the exact number of confirmed dengue cases went unanswered.

The WHO also declined to discuss the situation in the UAE when reached by The Associated Press. However, the U.N. health agency noted in its May 30 report that there have been continued dengue outbreaks in Mideast “countries with stronger health-care systems that have been affected by unusual rains due to climate change.” It also said: “Timely data sharing also remains a challenge for other countries in the region for reasons such as the potential impact in the tourism, economy and other sectors.”

Meanwhile, public awareness campaigns across the sheikdom on the importance of cleaning stagnant water and warnings about dengue, also known as breakbone fever, have been widely aired on state media.

Still, activists stressed that communities of laborers are bearing the brunt of the disease.

The slow cleanup of flooded areas in industrial sites has worsened the spread of the disease among laborers, some of whom have left their home countries already affected by climate change for a chance to earn money in the UAE, according to a report issued by FairSquare, a London-based group focused on labor rights in the Gulf Arab states.

The July 4 report detailed a surge in dengue cases among migrant worker communities across the Emirates, citing three healthcare workers, a government official, and migrant workers. The group attributed the rise in cases to a lagging government response to the spread of the viral infection in areas where migrant laborers live and work.

James Lynch, a FairSquare co-director once banned from entering the UAE while at Amnesty International, told the AP that “the important thing here is the disproportionate impact” of how the virus seems to mainly spread among laborers. “What you would want to see is an even-handed approach to dealing with clean up and it doesn’t seem to be the case here.”

No specific figures were shared in the report which quoted a nurse, who works at a private clinic in the city of Sharjah, as saying they receive over 30 cases every four or five days, describing the rise in cases as “alarming.”

The UAE’s overall population of more than 9.2 million is only 10% Emirati, with millions of low-paid workers from Africa, the Middle East and Southeast Asia.

“I call it a double whammy of climate change on this very vulnerable population,” said Barrak Alahmad, a research fellow at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. “I see that these migrant workers are on the front line facing the effects of climate change and health.”

The effect of the virus also resonated in Iran.

The Islamic Republic relies on Dubai as a major transit point to the rest of the world due to the international sanctions it faces over its nuclear program and tensions with the West.

On July 9, Shahnam Arshi, an Iranian health ministry official, said of 149 people infected with dengue, 130 had been infected in the UAE while Hossein Farshidi, deputy health minister, said the first known infected person entered Iran on May 15, after the flooding in the Emirates.

Farshidi, in his latest remarks on July 23, said the number of infected people in the country, rose to 152, without giving further details.

This year, Iran also reported its first locally transmitted cases of dengue, saying the number rose to 12 in July, all of them located in the Bandar Lengeh port, south of Iran.

Earlier this year, Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro declared a public health emergency because of mosquito-borne dengue fever, while in July, U.S. officials warned doctors to stay on alert as the tropical disease broke international records.

“Each year, we are going to see new places and different local governments struggling with either dengue or other issues from climate change,” said Alahmad, the research fellow. “It is an ever-expanding issue. I don’t know if we have an easy fix to this.”

Fox News AI Newsletter: Waymo’s robotaxi launches citywide in San Francisco

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July 24, 2024

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

IN TODAY’S NEWSLETTER:

– Robots take the wheel as San Francisco opens streets to driverless taxis

– FTC probes AI-powered ‘surveillance pricing’ at Mastercard, JPMorgan Chase, McKinsey and others

– US Air Force’s XQ-67A drone thinks, flies, acts on its own

Waymo autonomous vehicle (Waymo)

DRIVERLESS TAXIS ARRIVE: The future of urban transportation is here, and it’s taking the form of sleek, autonomous vehicles traveling through city streets. Across the United States, self-driving car companies are racing to revolutionize how we move, promising safer roads, reduced traffic and a new era of mobility. But it’s in San Francisco that this future is suddenly now a reality for thousands.

‘SHADOWY ECOSYSTEM’: The Federal Trade Commission on Tuesday announced that it launched a probe of eight companies that offer “surveillance pricing” tools that use artificial intelligence and other technology to analyze consumer data to help set price targets for products and services.

US Air Force’s XQ-67A drone (AFRL)

AI IN THE SKY: The U.S. Air Force has just unveiled a new aircraft that’s turning heads and raising eyebrows across the globe.

ACCIDENT AVOIDANCE: Developed by Maine-based entrepreneur Josh Fox, Survue is an innovative device that looks to address the limitations of existing bicycle radar systems. While conventional systems primarily focus on the speed of approaching vehicles, Survue takes a more holistic approach by considering multiple factors to assess potential risks.

AI bicycle safety device could warn of dangerous car collision

AI-based bicycle safety device (Survue) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Stay up to date on the latest AI technology advancements and learn about the challenges and opportunities AI presents now and for the future with Fox News here.

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Free waterfront festival, Oswego Harborfest, to celebrate its 35th year

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July 24, 2024

VISITING A US NATIONAL PARK THIS SUMMER? ONCE THERE, DON’T DO THIS OR YOU’LL BE FINED

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A big summer celebration is set to take place this weekend in upstate New York.

Harborfest in Oswego, New York, is celebrating its 35th anniversary in 2024. The free event takes place from July 25-28 along the Oswego waterfront.

Since a humble beginning in 1988, Harborfest has grown to become a major regional festival, attracting an estimated 75,000 attendees each year on average, executive director Dan Harrington told Fox News Digital in a telephone interview.

The four-day festival is scheduled to feature over 30 live musical performances, various art and food vendors, a fair and a fireworks display.

Although it’s been free since the inaugural Harborfest, Harrington indicated it’s been a struggle to maintain a ticketless event in recent years.

The four-day Harborfest music festival has been held along the waterfront in Oswego, New York, since 1988. (iStock)

Harborfest was canceled for two years because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

It was only through donations that Harborfest was able to return in 2022.

“We rely heavily on our sponsors to help keep us going,” Harrington said.

HEALTHY FOOD ITEMS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY AT MAJOR THEME PARKS, ACCORDING TO NUTRITIONISTS

At one point, there were discussions about cutting Harborfest from four days to three or two, but the idea was later abandoned, Harrington said.

“We’re really not saving a lot of money because you still have to maintain the stuff like you would for four days,” he said.

Instead, Harborfest cut its staff and hours to survive.

Fireworks are seen at night during Harborfest in Oswego, New York.

Fireworks are seen at night during a recent Harborfest in Oswego, New York. (Harborfest)

“And it became alive again,” Harrington said.

Harborfest bills itself as one of New York’s largest admission-free music festivals in the state.

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The fact that it has remained free for each of the past 34 festivities is part of what makes Harborfest so appealing, Harrington said.

Blood, Sweat & Tears will headline the opening night acts, while former Grand Funk Railroad lead singer Mark Farner will take the stage with his American Band on Friday evening.

Mark Farner performs in Agoura Hills, California, in 2019.

Mark Farner, founding member and former lead singer of the classic rock band Grand Funk Railroad, will perform at Harborfest. (Scott Dudelson/Getty Images)

There will also be a children’s parade on Friday that will conclude with an appearance by Peppa Pig, who was a “big hit” last year, and a “small circus with some aerial acts” is new for 2024, Harrington said.

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“We have a ton of stuff for the children to do,” he said.

Kids line up for the children's parade during Harborfest in Oswego, New York.

The annual children’s parade is one of many activities for kids at Harborfest. (Harborfest)

Oswego is located off Lake Ontario, about 40 miles northwest of Syracuse via Interstate 481.

Harborfest is open from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Thursday, 10 a.m. to midnight on Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday. Festivities take place at Breitbeck Park, East Park and the Cahill Pier.

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

The carnival will be situated on Lake Street in front of the U.S. Coast Guard station.

Tickets are required for the rides.

What exactly is a data breach and why should I care?

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July 24, 2024

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

Data breaches have become common, and if you’ve actively used online services in the past year, you might have been affected by them. For example, the Advance Auto Parts breach exposed more than 2.3 million users’ personal information, while a recent AT&T incident allowed hackers to access around six months of customer call and text interactions. But what do bad actors do with all this data?

John from Jackson, Mississippi, asked a similar question that I want to highlight and address because it helps all of us:

“What do you mean when you say a company has exposed 2.3 million or whatever in a data breach? This happens often, but there is never any follow-up. It’s like throwing address labels in a trash can, and then they are carried to the landfill. So? What really happens with a data breach?”

I get what you’re saying, John. Data breaches make headlines, but you rarely hear about the fallout. It’s tough to link a specific breach to a specific problem later on. Below is a detailed look at what a data breach actually means.

Illustration of a hacker at work (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Data breach explained

A data breach occurs when an unauthorized person gains access to information that is meant to be confidential, private, protected or sensitive. Think of it this way: You have personal information that you trusted a friend with, but while sharing it, someone who wasn’t supposed to know it overheard it.

A real-life example is the AT&T data breach mentioned earlier. Your call logs and text interactions that were meant to be private and which you trusted AT&T to protect ended up in the hands of hackers. These details can now be used by bad actors to scam you.

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Data breaches can happen in a few ways. Hackers might target specific organizations or launch broad attacks hoping to steal certain kinds of data. They can also use targeted cyberattacks to go after specific individuals.

Sometimes, data breaches occur due to honest mistakes or oversights by employees. Weaknesses in an organization’s systems and infrastructure can also leave them vulnerable to data breaches.

Illustration of a hacker at work (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

MASSIVE DATA BREACH EXPOSES 3 MILLION AMERICANS’ PERSONAL INFORMATION TO CYBERCRIMINALS

Anatomy of a deliberate data breach

Here’s what typically happens in a data breach that’s deliberately caused:

Research: Cybercriminals often begin by identifying a target, such as a large corporation like AT&T, focusing on the type of data they want, which could include personal customer information. They search for weaknesses in the company’s security, which might involve exploiting system flaws or targeting network infrastructure.

Attack: The attackers make their initial move using either a network or social attack. Common methods include phishing attacks, where individuals are tricked into revealing personal information; malware attacks that can steal or encrypt data; and denial-of-service attacks that disrupt services. These tactics can compromise the personal information of customers, such as names, addresses, phone numbers and even payment information.

Exfiltration: Once inside the company’s systems, cybercriminals tunnel their way to confidential data. For individuals, this means that their personal information can be extracted and sold on the dark web, used for identity theft or for other malicious purposes. The impact on individuals can be severe, including financial loss, damage to credit scores and the emotional stress of having personal information exposed and misused.

Illustration of a hacker at work (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

WORLD’S LARGEST STOLEN PASSWORD DATABASE UPLOADED TO CRIMINAL FORUM

What happens once the hackers have the data?

Once the hackers obtain protected and confidential data, they have various ways to profit from it. They can use compromised data for illegal activities, including identity theft, financial fraud, spamming or even extortion. Information such as email addresses and phone numbers can be used in phishing scams.

Sometimes, this data is also posted on dark web forums for sale. It can be purchased by other criminals, who may use it for various illicit activities. Just as you don’t hear about every burglary, homicide or battery, you don’t hear about each instance of these criminal activities.

They only make headlines when something significant occurs, such as the incident where hackers scammed a Colorado woman out of $25,000 or when a man was arrested for scamming a Kalispell, Montana, woman of $150,000.

Data breaches impact not only customers but also the companies involved. These companies may face government fines or lawsuits. For example, AT&T is currently dealing with a class-action lawsuit due to a security breach in 2022 that exposed months’ worth of data from nearly all its customers. Similarly, T-Mobile is facing a lawsuit related to a data breach that affected millions of people.

Illustration of a hacker at work (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

CYBERCRIMINALS TAKING ADVANTAGE OF CROWDSTRIKE-LINKED GLOBAL COMPUTER OUTAGE

How to protect yourself from data breaches?

It’s primarily the responsibility of companies or online services to keep your data safe, but if it gets exposed, here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Change your passwords

If hackers have recorded your passwords, they could access your online accounts and steal your data or money. ON ANOTHER DEVICE (i.e., your laptop or desktop), you should change your passwords for all your important accounts, such as email, banking, social media, etc. You want to do this on another device so that the hacker isn’t recording you setting up your new password on your hacked device. And you should also use strong and unique passwords that are hard to guess or crack. You can also use a password manager to generate and store your passwords securely.

2. Enable two-factor authentication

Activate two-factor authentication (2FA) for an extra layer of security on all your important accounts, including email, banking and social media. 2FA requires you to provide a second piece of information, such as a code sent to your phone, in addition to your password when logging in. This makes it significantly harder for hackers to access your accounts, even if they have your password. Enabling 2FA can greatly reduce the risk of unauthorized access and protect your sensitive data.

3. Monitor your accounts and transactions

You should check your online accounts and transactions regularly for any suspicious or unauthorized activity. If you notice anything unusual, immediately report it to the service provider or authorities. You should also review your credit reports and scores to see if there are any signs of identity theft or fraud.

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4. Contact your bank and credit card companies

If hackers have obtained your bank or credit card information, they could use it to make purchases or withdrawals without your consent. You should inform your bank and credit card companies of the situation. They can help you freeze or cancel your cards, dispute any fraudulent charges and issue new cards for you.

You should also contact one of the three major credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian or TransUnion) and request a fraud alert to be placed on your credit file. This will make it more difficult for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name without verification. You can even freeze your credit, if need be.

5. Use personal data removal services

Consider investing in personal data removal services that specialize in continuously monitoring and removing your personal information from various online databases and websites. These services employ advanced tools and techniques to identify and eliminate your data from people-search sites, data brokers and other platforms where your information might be exposed. By using a data removal service, you can minimize the risk of identity theft and fraud, especially after a data breach. Additionally, these services often provide ongoing monitoring and alerts, keeping you informed of any new instances of your data appearing online and taking immediate action to remove it. Check out my top picks for data removal services here .

6. Sign up for identity theft protection

Identity theft protection companies can monitor personal information like your home title, Social Security Number, phone number and email address and alert you if it is 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. See my tips and best picks on how to protect yourself from identity theft.

7. Alert your contacts

If hackers have accessed your email or social media accounts, they could use them to send spam or phishing messages to your contacts. They could also impersonate you and ask for money or personal information. You should alert your contacts and warn them not to open or respond to any messages from you that seem suspicious or unusual.

Kurt’s key takeaway

The impact of a data breach may not be immediate, but once your data is on the internet, it can be misused by bad actors. They can steal your hard-earned money, cause emotional and mental harm or affect your loved ones. So, even if you don’t see the immediate impact of a data breach, take action. Ensure your devices are protected, and keep a close eye on your bank accounts.

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

Have you ever noticed unusual activity in your accounts after a data breach was reported? 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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Experts laud twice-yearly injection that offers 100% protection against HIV/AIDS

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July 24, 2024

PIONEER OF AMERICA’S GLOBAL HIV/AIDS PROGRAM RECALLS HOPE AFTER YEARS OF DESPAIR

Twice-yearly shots used to treat AIDS were 100% effective in preventing new infections in women, according to a new study.
There were no infections among the young women and girls who received the shots in a study of about 5,000 participants in South Africa and Uganda.
The shots, made by U.S. drugmaker Gilead and sold as Sunlenca, are currently approved as a treatment for HIV in several regions.

Twice-yearly shots used to treat AIDS were 100% effective in preventing new infections in women, according to study results published Wednesday.

There were no infections in the young women and girls that got the shots in a study of about 5,000 in South Africa and Uganda, researchers reported. In a group given daily prevention pills, roughly 2% ended up catching HIV from infected sex partners.

“To see this level of protection is stunning,” said Salim Abdool Karim of the injections. He is director of an AIDS research center in Durban, South Africa, who was not part of the research.

The shots made by U.S. drugmaker Gilead and sold as Sunlenca are approved in the U.S., Canada, Europe and elsewhere, but only as a treatment for HIV. The company said it is waiting for results of testing in men before seeking permission to use it to protect against infection.

A pharmacist holds a vial of lenacapavir, the new HIV prevention injectable drug, at the Desmond Tutu Health Foundation’s Masiphumelele Research Site in Cape Town, South Africa, on July 23, 2024. The twice-yearly shots used to treat AIDS were 100% effective in preventing new infections in women, according to study results published on Wednesday. (AP Photo/Nardus Engelbrecht)

The results in women were published Wednesday in the New England Journal of Medicine and discussed at an AIDS conference in Munich. Gilead paid for the study and some of the researchers are company employees. Because of the surprisingly encouraging results, the study was stopped early and all participants were offered the shots, also known as lenacapavir.

While there are other ways to prevent HIV infection, like condoms or daily pills, consistent use has been a problem in Africa. In the new study, only about 30% of participants given Gilead’s Truvada or Descovy prevention pills actually took them — and that figure dropped over time.

The prospect of a twice-a-year shot is “quite revolutionary news” for our patients, said Thandeka Nkosi, who helped run the Gilead research at the Desmond Tutu Health Foundation in Masiphumelele, South Africa. “It gives participants a choice and it just eliminates the whole stigma around taking pills” to prevent HIV.

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Experts working to stop the spread of AIDS are excited about the Sunlenca shots but are concerned Gilead hasn’t yet agreed on an affordable price for those who need them the most. The company said it would pursue a “voluntary licensing program,” suggesting that only a select number of generic producers would be allowed to make them.

“Gilead has a tool that could change the trajectory of the HIV epidemic,” said Winnie Byanyima, executive director of the Geneva-based U.N. AIDS agency.

A pharmacist holds a vial of lenacapavir at the Desmond Tutu Health Foundation’s Masiphumelele Research Site in Cape Town, South Africa, on July 23, 2024. (AP Photo/Nardus Engelbrecht)

She said her organization urged Gilead to share Sunlenca’s patent with a U.N.-backed program that negotiates broad contracts allowing generic drugmakers to make cheap versions of drugs for poorer countries worldwide. As an HIV treatment, the drug costs more than $40,000 a year in the U.S., although what individuals pay varies.

Dr. Helen Bygrave of Doctors Without Borders said in a statement that the injections could “reverse the epidemic if it is made available in the countries with the highest rate of new infections.” She urged Gilead to publish a price for Sunlenca that would be affordable for all countries.

In a statement last month, Gilead said it was too early to say how much Sunlenca would cost for prevention in poorer countries. Dr. Jared Baeten, Gilead’s senior vice president of clinical development, said the company was already talking to generics manufacturers and understood how “deeply important it is that we move at speed.”

Another HIV prevention shot, Apretude, which is given every two months, is approved in some countries, including in Africa. It sells for about $180 per patient per year, which is still too pricey for most developing countries.

A lab technician works with vials of lenacapavir at the Desmond Tutu Health Foundation’s Masiphumelele Research Site in Cape Town, South Africa, on July 23, 2024. (AP Photo/Nardus Engelbrecht)

Byanyima said the people who need long-lasting protection the most include women and girls who are victims of domestic violence and gay men in countries where same-sex relationships are criminalized. According to UNAIDS, 46% of new HIV infections globally in 2022 were in women and girls, who were three times more likely to get HIV than males in Africa.

Byanyima compared the news about Sunlenca to the discovery decades ago of AIDS drugs that could turn HIV infection from a death sentence into a chronic illness. Back then, South African President Nelson Mandela suspended patents to allow wider access to the drugs; the price later dropped from about $10,000 per patient per year to about $50.

Olwethu Kemele, a health worker at the Desmond Tutu Health Foundation, predicted the shots could boost the number of people coming in for HIV prevention and slow the virus’ spread. She said young women often hide the pills to avoid questions from boyfriends and family members. “It makes it hard for the girls to continue,” she said.

In a report on the state of the global epidemic released this week, UNAIDS said that fewer people were infected with HIV in 2023 than at any point since the late 1980s. Globally, HIV infects about 1.3 million people every year and kills more than 600,000, mainly in Africa. While significant progress has been made in Africa, HIV infections are rising in Eastern Europe, Latin America and the Middle East.

In other research presented at the AIDS conference, Andrew Hill of the University of Liverpool and colleagues estimated that once production of Sunlenca is expanded to treat 10 million people, the price should fall to about $40 per treatment. He said it was critical that health authorities get access to Sunlenca as soon as possible.

“This is about as close as you can get to an HIV vaccine,” he said.

US Air Force’s XQ-67A drone thinks, flies, acts on its own

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July 24, 2024

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Have you ever wondered what the future of warfare might look like? Well, it’s starting to take shape right above our heads.

The U.S. Air Force has just unveiled a new aircraft that’s turning heads and raising eyebrows across the globe.

But don’t expect to see a pilot in the cockpit. This high-tech innovation flies itself.

U.S. Air Force’s XQ-67A drone (AFRL)

XQ-67A: The new kid on the block

On a sunny California day in February 2024, something extraordinary took flight. The XQ-67A, a sleek unmanned aircraft, soared into the sky for the first time, giving us a glimpse into the future of aerial combat and reconnaissance.

The XQ-67A is what’s known as a drone or unmanned aerial vehicle. This aircraft is packed with cutting-edge technology that allows it to fly without a human pilot on board. Instead, it can be controlled remotely or even fly on its own, making decisions based on its programming and the data it collects.

U.S. Air Force’s XQ-67A drone (AFRL)

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There’s more than meets the eye with the XQ-67A

So, what makes the XQ-67A stand out in a world where drones are becoming increasingly common? For starters, it’s part of a program called the off-board sensing station. This fancy name essentially means it’s designed to be the eyes and ears of the Air Force, gathering crucial information in situations that might be too dangerous for human pilots.

But here’s where it gets really interesting: The XQ-67A is built on what engineers call a “common chassis.” Think of it like a car frame that can be used to build different types of vehicles. This approach allows the Air Force to create various types of drones quickly and cost-effectively. All of these are based on the same core design.

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U.S. Air Force’s XQ-67A drone (AFRL)

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It’s a family affair when it comes to the Air Force’s drones

The XQ-67A isn’t alone in this new era of aviation. It’s actually based on an earlier drone called the XQ-58A Valkyrie. And there’s more on the horizon. The Air Force is also developing something called the off-board weapon station, which could be thought of as the XQ-67A’s more combat-oriented cousin.

This family of drones represents a shift in military thinking. Instead of relying solely on expensive, manned aircraft, the Air Force is moving towards a mix of crewed and uncrewed vehicles working together. It’s a concept they call “Loyal Wingman,” where these autonomous drones support and protect human pilots in the air.

U.S. Air Force’s XQ-67A drone (AFRL)

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How the XQ-67A is changing the game

The implications of this technology are huge. With drones like the XQ-67A, the Air Force can gather intelligence, conduct surveillance and potentially even engage in combat without putting pilots directly in harm’s way. It’s not just about reducing risk to human life; it’s about expanding capabilities.

These drones can fly longer missions without the limitations of human endurance. They can be sent into dangerous or contaminated areas without hesitation. And perhaps most importantly, they can make split-second decisions based on data and algorithms, potentially reacting faster than a human pilot could.

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U.S. Air Force’s XQ-67A drone (AFRL)

Looking to the future of autonomous military aircraft

As exciting as the XQ-67A is, it’s just the beginning. The technology behind these autonomous aircraft is advancing rapidly, and it’s not hard to imagine a future where swarms of artificial intelligence-controlled drones work in perfect coordination with human pilots.

But this future also raises important questions. How will the role of human pilots evolve? What are the ethical implications of having machines make life-and-death decisions in combat? And how might this technology change the nature of warfare itself?

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

U.S. Air Force’s XQ-67A drone (AFRL)

Kurt’s key takeaways

The XQ-67A represents a pivotal moment in military aviation. The skies of tomorrow will be filled with aircraft that think, decide and act on their own, working alongside human pilots to accomplish missions we can only imagine today. Whether this prospect fills you with excitement or concern, one thing is certain: The future of aerial warfare is here, and it’s autonomous.