<p><strong>Elon Musk Net worth:</strong> Last year, Elon Musk lost the title of the 'world's richest person,' however, a new report on Thursday (Feb 15) revealed that&nbsp;every minute of the tech billionaire is worth a whopping $6,887. As per the World's Real-Time Billionaires' index by Forbes, Musk's net worth stands at a staggering $198.9 billion.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Time is Money (Elon Musk Net worth)</strong></h2>

<p>As per Finbold, despite his net worth dropping from $229 billion to the current 198.9 billion, the Tesla CEO in 2023 logged a&nbsp;total earnings of $3.6203 billion.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musks-x-received-payments-from-terrorists-claim-campaigners-690453">Elon Musk's X received payments from terrorists, claim campaigners</a></strong></p>

<p>Upon dividing his earnings, the publication came up with significant figures that put a normal man's earnings to shame.</p>

<p>In a year, there are 31,536,000 seconds. A division of his earnings of $3.6203 by the number of seconds in a year brings up the mighty number: $114.80. This is what Musk makes every second.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Elon Musk's X received payments from terrorists</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/elon-musks-x-received-payments-from-terrorists-690627/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>This is equal to $6,887 per minute, $413,220 per hour, $9,917,280 per day, and $69,420,960 per week.</p>

<h2><strong>Elon Musk's sources of earning</strong></h2>

<p>Musk has a diverse portfolio, consisting of big tech companies like X (formerly Twitter), space research company SpaceX, automobile maker Tesla, The Boring Company, xAI, and Neuralink.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spacex-moves-to-texas-after-delaware-judge-axed-musks-56bn-tesla-pay-690475">SpaceX moves to Texas after Delaware judge axes Musk's $56bn Tesla pay</a></strong></p>

<p>"Elon Musk’s financial prowess is nothing short of remarkable. Despite a dip in net worth from last year, he remains one of the wealthiest individuals globally, largely due to his diverse array of successful ventures," states the report.</p>

<p>"Through Tesla's electrifying innovations, SpaceX’s ambitious space endeavours, and his involvement in various other ventures, Musk continues to leave an indelible mark on the world stage. And when you break down his earnings per second, it’s clear that time is indeed money for this visionary entrepreneur," it concludes.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Elon Musk Net worth: Last year, Elon Musk lost the title of the 'world's richest person,' however, a new report on Thursday (Feb 15) revealed that every minute of the tech billionaire is worth a whopping $6,887.

Elon Musk Net worth: Last year, Elon Musk lost the title of the 'world's richest person,' however, a new report on Thursday (Feb 15) revealed that every minute of the tech billionaire is worth a whopping $6,887. As per the World's Real-Time Billionaires' index by Forbes, Musk's net worth stands at a staggering $198.9 billion. Time is Money (Elon Musk Net worth) As per Finbold, despite his net worth dropping from $229 billion to the current 198.9 billion, the Tesla CEO in 2023 logged a total earnings of $3.6203 billion. Also read | Elon Musk's X received payments from terrorists, claim campaigners Upon dividing his earnings, the publication came up with significant figures that put a normal man's earnings to shame. In a year, there are 31,536,000 seconds. A division of his earnings of $3.6203 by the number of seconds in a year brings up the mighty number: $114.80. This is what Musk makes every second. Watch | Elon Musk's X received payments from terrorists This is equal to $6,887 per minute, $413,220 per hour, $9,917,280 per day, and $69,420,960 per week. Elon Musk's sources of earning Musk has a diverse portfolio, consisting of big tech companies like X (formerly Twitter), space research company SpaceX, automobile maker Tesla, The Boring Company, xAI, and Neuralink. Also read | SpaceX moves to Texas after Delaware judge axes Musk's $56bn Tesla pay "Elon Musk’s financial prowess is nothing short of remarkable. Despite a dip in net worth from last year, he remains one of the wealthiest individuals globally, largely due to his diverse array of successful ventures," states the report. "Through Tesla's electrifying innovations, SpaceX’s ambitious space endeavours, and his involvement in various other ventures, Musk continues to leave an indelible mark on the world stage. And when you break down his earnings per second, it’s clear that time is indeed money for this visionary entrepreneur," it concludes. (With inputs from agencies)

'Nothing short of remarkable': THIS is how much Elon Musk earns in one minute

<p>An Indian embassy staff member posted in Moscow was arrested on January 28 from his native place in Uttar Pradesh for divulging sensitive Indian military information. The man was allegedly lured into a web of espionage by the Pakistani spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), investigators revealed this week.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Honey trap</strong></h2>

<p>Satyendra Siwal, a 27-year-old security assistant stationed at the Indian Embassy in Moscow since 2021, as per media reports, has confessed to divulging information about Indian military installations and foreign affairs matters.</p>

<p>"During his tenure in Moscow, he came into contact with a woman who claimed to be from Canada and developed a relationship with her, despite being married and having children," revealed investigators.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/video-pet-groomers-arrested-after-video-of-them-beating-pet-dog-goes-viral-690332">Video: Pet groomers arrested after video of them beating pet dog goes viral</a></strong></p>

<p>The woman, allegedly working for Pakistan's ISI, enticed Siwal into revealing classified data in exchange for money (₹25 Lakh or $2.5 million) through her contacts.</p>

<p>"Siwal was offered money in exchange for information through her contacts," said an Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) officer, as reported by The Times Of India.</p>

<p>ATS officers discovered multiple payments from unidentified sources in Siwal's Indian bank account in Moscow, which he couldn't explain.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-metro-records-its-highest-daily-ridership-see-how-it-compares-690306">Delhi Metro records its highest-ever daily ridership, see how it compares to global networks</a></strong></p>

<p>The ATS has now requested Moscow to authenticate details of Siwal's bank accounts there.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Charges Siwal faces</strong></h2>

<p>Siwal now faces charges under section 121A (conspiracy against the state) and the Official Secrets Act, 1923.</p>

<p>UP ATS ADG Mohit Agarwal confirmed that all of Siwal's electronic devices have been confiscated and sent for a forensic audit to retrieve any erased or tampered data. Quoting ATS sources, the publication reported that ISI operatives have been trying to lure Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) employees with financial incentives for sensitive information.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


An Indian embassy staff member posted in Moscow was arrested on January 28 from his native place in Uttar Pradesh for divulging sensitive Indian military information.

An Indian embassy staff member posted in Moscow was arrested on January 28 from his native place in Uttar Pradesh for divulging sensitive Indian military information. The man was allegedly lured into a web of espionage by the Pakistani spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), investigators revealed this week. Honey trap Satyendra Siwal, a 27-year-old security assistant stationed at the Indian Embassy in Moscow since 2021, as per media reports, has confessed to divulging information about Indian military installations and foreign affairs matters. "During his tenure in Moscow, he came into contact with a woman who claimed to be from Canada and developed a relationship with her, despite being married and having children," revealed investigators. Also read | Video: Pet groomers arrested after video of them beating pet dog goes viral The woman, allegedly working for Pakistan's ISI, enticed Siwal into revealing classified data in exchange for money (₹25 Lakh or $2.5 million) through her contacts. "Siwal was offered money in exchange for information through her contacts," said an Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) officer, as reported by The Times Of India. ATS officers discovered multiple payments from unidentified sources in Siwal's Indian bank account in Moscow, which he couldn't explain. Also read | Delhi Metro records its highest-ever daily ridership, see how it compares to global networks The ATS has now requested Moscow to authenticate details of Siwal's bank accounts there. Charges Siwal faces Siwal now faces charges under section 121A (conspiracy against the state) and the Official Secrets Act, 1923. UP ATS ADG Mohit Agarwal confirmed that all of Siwal's electronic devices have been confiscated and sent for a forensic audit to retrieve any erased or tampered data. Quoting ATS sources, the publication reported that ISI operatives have been trying to lure Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) employees with financial incentives for sensitive information. (With inputs from agencies)

Espionage case: Indian embassy staff in Moscow fell prey to Pakistan ISI honey trap

<p>Women around the globe are potentially being exposed to harmful practices like overdiagnosis and unnecessary treatments, due to the latest marketing gimmick: feminist messages.</p>

<p>An analysis by Australian researchers published Thursday in the British Medical Journal found that corporations by taking advantage of feminist messages were promoting useless tests and treatments.</p>

<h2><strong>Promises of empowerment</strong></h2>

<p>"Feminist narratives of increasing women’s autonomy and empowerment regarding their healthcare, which first arose through early women’s health movements are now increasingly adopted by commercial entities to market new interventions (technologies, tests, treatments) that lack robust evidence or ignore the evidence that is available," write researchers.</p>

<p>They allege that by "promising empowerment through knowledge control and control" over one's body, corporations push treatments that have limited or no benefits.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/new-research-suggests-your-chihuahua-or-other-toy-breed-dog-may-have-shark-teeth-heres-what-it-means-690314">New research suggests your Chihuahua or other toy breed dog may have 'shark teeth'. Here's what it means</a></strong></p>

<p>Using the example of menstrual tracking apps that claim diagnostic expertise on problems like Polycystic ovarian syndrome, the authors say the problem lies not with the use of these health technologies, but "in the way commercial marketing and advocacy efforts push such interventions to a much larger group of women than is likely to benefit without being explicit about their limitations."</p>

<p>"Promoting healthcare interventions that are not supported by evidence, or while concealing or downplaying evidence, increases the risk of harm to women through inappropriate medicalisation, overdiagnosis, and overtreatment," they write.</p>

<p>Furthermore, they say that the use of feminist narratives to promote interventions "gives the impression health and sex equality are commodities that can be bought (by those who can afford it)".&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>"Take charge of your fertility"</strong></h2>

<p>The authors, for example, cite a service frequently pushed onto women: the anti-müllerian hormone (AMH) test .</p>

<p>AMH tests are used to predict the AMH levels in the blood, which are associated with the number of eggs in a woman's ovaries. This is inversely related to age, and as per evidence, these tests "cannot reliably predict likelihood of pregnancy, time to pregnancy, or specific age of menopause for individuals."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shark-attacks-doubled-in-2023-finds-study-687567">Shark attacks doubled in 2023, finds study</a></strong></p>

<p>However, in spite of that, fertility clinics and online companies continue to market and sell the tests with messages like "information is power" and "take charge of your fertility".</p>

<p><img alt="feminist messages" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bb07e11d-0b97-44bd-bce8-6e0bad85f32d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New%20wion%20-%202024-02-15T160442.786.jpg" /></p>

<p>"Health consumers and clinicians need to be wary of the simplistic narratives that any information and knowledge is always power," write researchers.</p>

<p>However, senior author of the paper, Dr Brooke Nickel, as quoted by The Guardian, adds that the responsibility should not be placed on women to navigate these health messages.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Instead, she says "The responsibility should largely be placed on companies that market these health interventions to be clearer about their limitations."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Women around the globe are potentially being exposed to harmful practices like overdiagnosis and unnecessary treatments, due to the latest marketing gimmick: feminist messages.

Women around the globe are potentially being exposed to harmful practices like overdiagnosis and unnecessary treatments, due to the latest marketing gimmick: feminist messages. An analysis by Australian researchers published Thursday in the British Medical Journal found that corporations by taking advantage of feminist messages were promoting useless tests and treatments. Promises of empowerment "Feminist narratives of increasing women’s autonomy and empowerment regarding their healthcare, which first arose through early women’s health movements are now increasingly adopted by commercial entities to market new interventions (technologies, tests, treatments) that lack robust evidence or ignore the evidence that is available," write researchers. They allege that by "promising empowerment through knowledge control and control" over one's body, corporations push treatments that have limited or no benefits. Also read | New research suggests your Chihuahua or other toy breed dog may have 'shark teeth'. Here's what it means Using the example of menstrual tracking apps that claim diagnostic expertise on problems like Polycystic ovarian syndrome, the authors say the problem lies not with the use of these health technologies, but "in the way commercial marketing and advocacy efforts push such interventions to a much larger group of women than is likely to benefit without being explicit about their limitations." "Promoting healthcare interventions that are not supported by evidence, or while concealing or downplaying evidence, increases the risk of harm to women through inappropriate medicalisation, overdiagnosis, and overtreatment," they write. Furthermore, they say that the use of feminist narratives to promote interventions "gives the impression health and sex equality are commodities that can be bought (by those who can afford it)". "Take charge of your fertility" The authors, for example, cite a service frequently pushed onto women: the anti-müllerian hormone (AMH) test . AMH tests are used to predict the AMH levels in the blood, which are associated with the number of eggs in a woman's ovaries. This is inversely related to age, and as per evidence, these tests "cannot reliably predict likelihood of pregnancy, time to pregnancy, or specific age of menopause for individuals." Also read | Shark attacks doubled in 2023, finds study However, in spite of that, fertility clinics and online companies continue to market and sell the tests with messages like "information is power" and "take charge of your fertility". "Health consumers and clinicians need to be wary of the simplistic narratives that any information and knowledge is always power," write researchers. However, senior author of the paper, Dr Brooke Nickel, as quoted by The Guardian, adds that the responsibility should not be placed on women to navigate these health messages. Instead, she says "The responsibility should largely be placed on companies that market these health interventions to be clearer about their limitations." (With inputs from agencies)

'Take charge': Companies using feminist messages to push 'useless' health products onto women, finds study

<p>Harvey Sultzer, a US-based grieving widower, is suing the medical giant Intuitive Surgical (IS) seeking over $75,000 in damages for his wife's death.</p>

<p>He claims that his wife Sandra Sultzer's death was caused by the surgical robot da Vinci. As per Sultzer, the robot inadvertently burned a hole in Sandra's organs during a procedure, ultimately leading to her demise.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>As per a New York Post report, in September 2021, Sandra underwent treatment for her colon cancer at Baptist Health Boca Raton Regional Hospital. The surgery was done using the da Vinci robot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The surgical robot is marketed for its unparalleled precision "beyond the limits of the human hand" and minimally invasive nature, "designed to provide surgeons with natural dexterity while operating through small incisions".</p>

<p>However, according to the lawsuit, this very device burned a catastrophic hole in Sandra's small intestine, which made additional medical interventions necessary.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-is-cyber-flashing-uk-man-becomes-first-to-be-convicted-of-crime-690253">Explained | What is ‘cyber flashing’? UK man becomes first to be convicted of the crime in England and Wales</a></strong></p>

<p>As per the lawsuit, after the procedures, Sandra continued to suffer from abdominal pain and fever, right until she died.</p>

<p>The lawsuit further accuses IS of withholding critical information about the robot's insulation issues, which were flagged in an FDA investigation spanning 2009 to 2011.</p>

<p>It alleges that despite knowing the potential for the device to cause internal organ burns, IS allegedly failed to disclose this risk to both the Sultzer family and the wider public.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, the lawsuit alleges that IS has received numerous reports of injuries and defects related to the surgical robot but has "systematically underreported" these to the FDA.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/watch-polar-bears-may-be-dying-of-starvation-rare-footage-provides-some-insight-690247">Watch | Polar bears may be dying of starvation, rare footage provides some insight</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Legal woes</strong></h2>

<p>The legal woes of IS, as per the report, are not new. Previous financial reports to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) revealed that the company was involved in approximately 93 lawsuits in 2014.</p>

<p>These lawsuits alleged "that they or a family member underwent surgical procedures that utilised the da Vinci Surgical System and sustained a variety of personal injuries and, in some cases, death as a result of such surgery."</p>

<p>The lawsuit also takes aim at IS's business practices, criticising the company for selling its robots to hospitals lacking experience in robotic surgery and says that the company fails to adequately train surgeons on how to operate the da Vinci device. While IS does offer a training programme, a 2018 NBC News investigation revealed that the company cannot legally compel surgeons to complete it.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Harvey Sultzer, a US-based grieving widower, is suing the medical giant Intuitive Surgical (IS) seeking over $75,000 in damages for his wife's death. He claims that his wife Sandra Sultzer's death was caused by the surgical robot da Vinci.

Harvey Sultzer, a US-based grieving widower, is suing the medical giant Intuitive Surgical (IS) seeking over $75,000 in damages for his wife's death. He claims that his wife Sandra Sultzer's death was caused by the surgical robot da Vinci. As per Sultzer, the robot inadvertently burned a hole in Sandra's organs during a procedure, ultimately leading to her demise. What happened? As per a New York Post report, in September 2021, Sandra underwent treatment for her colon cancer at Baptist Health Boca Raton Regional Hospital. The surgery was done using the da Vinci robot. The surgical robot is marketed for its unparalleled precision "beyond the limits of the human hand" and minimally invasive nature, "designed to provide surgeons with natural dexterity while operating through small incisions". However, according to the lawsuit, this very device burned a catastrophic hole in Sandra's small intestine, which made additional medical interventions necessary. Also read | Explained | What is ‘cyber flashing’? UK man becomes first to be convicted of the crime in England and Wales As per the lawsuit, after the procedures, Sandra continued to suffer from abdominal pain and fever, right until she died. The lawsuit further accuses IS of withholding critical information about the robot's insulation issues, which were flagged in an FDA investigation spanning 2009 to 2011. It alleges that despite knowing the potential for the device to cause internal organ burns, IS allegedly failed to disclose this risk to both the Sultzer family and the wider public. Additionally, the lawsuit alleges that IS has received numerous reports of injuries and defects related to the surgical robot but has "systematically underreported" these to the FDA. Also read | Watch | Polar bears may be dying of starvation, rare footage provides some insight Legal woes The legal woes of IS, as per the report, are not new. Previous financial reports to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) revealed that the company was involved in approximately 93 lawsuits in 2014. These lawsuits alleged "that they or a family member underwent surgical procedures that utilised the da Vinci Surgical System and sustained a variety of personal injuries and, in some cases, death as a result of such surgery." The lawsuit also takes aim at IS's business practices, criticising the company for selling its robots to hospitals lacking experience in robotic surgery and says that the company fails to adequately train surgeons on how to operate the da Vinci device. While IS does offer a training programme, a 2018 NBC News investigation revealed that the company cannot legally compel surgeons to complete it. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Surgical robot kills cancer patient after burning hole in internal organs, husband seeks justice

<p>A 39-year-old man has become the first person in England and Wales to be convicted of cyber flashing. The man, a resident of Essex, has been convicted under the Online Safety Act for sending unsolicited images of his exposed male genitalia to a teenage girl and a woman.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>The conviction</h2>

<p>Nicholas Hawkes was arrested after screenshots of his unsolicited images were shared with the police. The woman, as per media reports, had taken screenshots of the WhatsApp image and shared them with the Essex Police.</p>

<p>The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) revealed that the images were sent on February 9th and a complaint was registered the same day.</p>

<p>Hawkes had also sent pictures of his genitalia to a 15-year-old girl.</p>

<p>On Monday, at the Southend magistrate's court, he admitted to two counts of sending a photograph or film of genitals to cause alarm, distress, or humiliation.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/social-media-pushing-youngsters-towards-more-misogynistic-content-finds-study-687528">Social media pushing youngsters towards more misogynistic content, finds study</a></strong></p>

<p>He was convicted at the hearing and has been remanded in custody. He is due to be sentenced at Basildon Crown Court on March 11.</p>

<p>As per reports, Hawkes was already a registered sex offender, and will remain so until November 2033. Last year, he was convicted of sexual activity with a child under 16 and exposure at Basildon Crown Court.</p>

<h2><strong>What is cyber flashing?</strong></h2>

<p>Talking to the press, Sefer Mani of CPS East of England called cyber flashing a "grotesque crime".&nbsp;He said that the "fact we were able to deliver swift justice for the two victims shows the new law is working."</p>

<p>"Everyone should feel safe wherever they are and not be subjected to receiving unwanted sexual images," added Mani.</p>

<p>The CPS officer also urged victims of cyber flashing to come forward and report it to the police.</p>

<p>"I urge anyone who feels they have been a victim of cyber flashing to report it to the police and know that they will be taken seriously and have their identities protected," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-alarming-research-australia-demands-dating-apps-to-enhance-safety-for-users-637212">After alarming research, Australia asks dating apps to enhance safety for users</a></strong></p>

<p>Cyber flashing, as per The Standard, is a form of digital harassment or sexual misconduct that involves sharing unsolicited images or videos of genitalia or other intimate body parts. This is done via electronic means and can be done over text, emails, messaging apps, social media or even using the airdrop feature on smartphones.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A main aspect of such messages is the lack of the recipient's consent. It can be distressing and traumatic for those at the receiving end, and the sexually explicit images can cause emotional harm. It constitutes a violation of privacy.</p>

<h2><strong>UK's Online Safety Act</strong></h2>

<p>In January 2024, the United Kingdom made into law the Online Safety Act, under which a variety of online crimes are included, among them being cyber flashing.</p>

<p>In England and Wales, cyber flashing became a crime starting on January 31st. As per SkyNews, it has been a crime in Scotland since 2010.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sexual-carnivore-california-man-who-tried-to-blame-twin-brother-for-rape-sentenced-to-140-years-in-prison-685416">'Sexual Carnivore': California man who tried to blame twin brother for rape sentenced to 140 years in prison</a></strong></p>

<p>As per the Government of UK website, those found guilty of sharing an intimate image can be imprisoned for up to 6 months, or 2 years "if it is proven the perpetrator also intended to cause distress, alarm or humiliation, or shared the image to obtain sexual gratification."</p>

<p>Furthermore, cyber flashing "on dating apps, AirDrop and other platforms will also result in perpetrators facing up to two years behind bars where it is done to gain sexual gratification or to cause alarm, distress, or humiliation."</p>

<p>Under the law, victims of cyber flashing and image-based abuse automatically receive lifelong anonymity from the point they report the offence.</p>

<h2><strong>Cyber-flashing laws around the world</strong></h2>

<p>- In May 2017, in New South Wales, Australia, The Crimes Amendment (Intimate Images) Bill 2017 was implemented. Under the law, it is a crime to "intentionally record or distribute, or threaten to record or distribute, an intimate image of a person without their consent".</p>

<p>This legislation also covers cyber flashing by its prohibition on the non-consensual sharing of&nbsp;intimate images.</p>

<p>- In Singapore, sending unsolicited intimate images, or "cyber flashing," has been a punishable crime since May 2019. Anyone found guilty of the offence could receive a custodial sentence of up to two years. Additionally, the law also makes upskirt photos punishable by up to two years in prison – five years if the images are shared online.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Upskirting is the act of sneakily capturing a photograph or video underneath a person's clothing without their consent. This is typically done to capture images of a person's genitals, buttocks, or underwear.</p>

<p>Since 2019, it is a criminal offence in England and Wales.</p>

<p>- In India, while cyber flashing is not explicitly mentioned, The Information Technology Act of 2000 makes it an offence to publish or transmit pornographic content in electronic form. This provision applies to the cyber flashing of genitalia and other similarly offensive or unpleasant content.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A 39-year-old man has become the first person in England and Wales to be convicted of cyber flashing. The man, a resident of Essex, has been convicted under the Online Safety Act for sending unsolicited images of his exposed male genitalia to a teenage girl and a woman.

A 39-year-old man has become the first person in England and Wales to be convicted of cyber flashing. The man, a resident of Essex, has been convicted under the Online Safety Act for sending unsolicited images of his exposed male genitalia to a teenage girl and a woman. The conviction Nicholas Hawkes was arrested after screenshots of his unsolicited images were shared with the police. The woman, as per media reports, had taken screenshots of the WhatsApp image and shared them with the Essex Police. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) revealed that the images were sent on February 9th and a complaint was registered the same day. Hawkes had also sent pictures of his genitalia to a 15-year-old girl. On Monday, at the Southend magistrate's court, he admitted to two counts of sending a photograph or film of genitals to cause alarm, distress, or humiliation. Also read | Social media pushing youngsters towards more misogynistic content, finds study He was convicted at the hearing and has been remanded in custody. He is due to be sentenced at Basildon Crown Court on March 11. As per reports, Hawkes was already a registered sex offender, and will remain so until November 2033. Last year, he was convicted of sexual activity with a child under 16 and exposure at Basildon Crown Court. What is cyber flashing? Talking to the press, Sefer Mani of CPS East of England called cyber flashing a "grotesque crime". He said that the "fact we were able to deliver swift justice for the two victims shows the new law is working." "Everyone should feel safe wherever they are and not be subjected to receiving unwanted sexual images," added Mani. The CPS officer also urged victims of cyber flashing to come forward and report it to the police. "I urge anyone who feels they have been a victim of cyber flashing to report it to the police and know that they will be taken seriously and have their identities protected," he said. Also read | After alarming research, Australia asks dating apps to enhance safety for users Cyber flashing, as per The Standard, is a form of digital harassment or sexual misconduct that involves sharing unsolicited images or videos of genitalia or other intimate body parts. This is done via electronic means and can be done over text, emails, messaging apps, social media or even using the airdrop feature on smartphones. A main aspect of such messages is the lack of the recipient's consent. It can be distressing and traumatic for those at the receiving end, and the sexually explicit images can cause emotional harm. It constitutes a violation of privacy. UK's Online Safety Act In January 2024, the United Kingdom made into law the Online Safety Act, under which a variety of online crimes are included, among them being cyber flashing. In England and Wales, cyber flashing became a crime starting on January 31st. As per SkyNews, it has been a crime in Scotland since 2010. Also read | 'Sexual Carnivore': California man who tried to blame twin brother for rape sentenced to 140 years in prison As per the Government of UK website, those found guilty of sharing an intimate image can be imprisoned for up to 6 months, or 2 years "if it is proven the perpetrator also intended to cause distress, alarm or humiliation, or shared the image to obtain sexual gratification." Furthermore, cyber flashing "on dating apps, AirDrop and other platforms will also result in perpetrators facing up to two years behind bars where it is done to gain sexual gratification or to cause alarm, distress, or humiliation." Under the law, victims of cyber flashing and image-based abuse automatically receive lifelong anonymity from the point they report the offence. Cyber-flashing laws around the world - In May 2017, in New South Wales, Australia, The Crimes Amendment (Intimate Images) Bill 2017 was implemented. Under the law, it is a crime to "intentionally record or distribute, or threaten to record or distribute, an intimate image of a person without their consent". This legislation also covers cyber flashing by its prohibition on the non-consensual sharing of intimate images. - In Singapore, sending unsolicited intimate images, or "cyber flashing," has been a punishable crime since May 2019. Anyone found guilty of the offence could receive a custodial sentence of up to two years. Additionally, the law also makes upskirt photos punishable by up to two years in prison – five years if the images are shared online. Upskirting is the act of sneakily capturing a photograph or video underneath a person's clothing without their consent. This is typically done to capture images of a person's genitals, buttocks, or underwear. Since 2019, it is a criminal offence in England and Wales. - In India, while cyber flashing is not explicitly mentioned, The Information Technology Act of 2000 makes it an offence to publish or transmit pornographic content in electronic form. This provision applies to the cyber flashing of genitalia and other similarly offensive or unpleasant content. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | What is ‘cyber flashing’? UK man becomes first to be convicted of the crime in England and Wales

<p>In the vibrant Mexican resort town of Cancun, police have cracked down on a notorious drug syndicate, nabbing six members allegedly embroiled in a string of gruesome crimes. These include the savage slaying and dismemberment of five victims using a machete, and the callous burial of three others in a shallow grave.</p>

<h2><strong>How the group carried out their crimes</strong></h2>

<p>According to an Independent UK report quoting prosecutors, this nefarious group, accused of extortion among other offences, operated under the cloak of a web of motorcycle taxis and underage lookouts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Furthermore, authorities announced the arrest of 23 individuals linked to a fake tour agency suspected to be a front for drug trafficking activities in Cancun.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-passes-95-billion-ukraine-israel-aid-bill-689917">US Senate passes $95 billion aid bill for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan</a></strong></p>

<p>The alleged culprits purportedly ran a call centre, peddling sports gear and holiday packages to unsuspecting tourists — which were never delivered. Yet, on the second floor, was a hub for drug transactions that were made over the phone, and delivered by motorbike couriers.</p>

<p>In another crackdown, Cancun authorities arrested an individual who is accused of sourcing and selling drugs via social media platforms. He even offered home delivery.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/robert-f-kennedy-jr-apologises-to-family-over-super-bowl-ad-similar-to-jfks-689938">Robert F Kennedy Jr apologises to family over Super Bowl ad similar to JFK's</a></strong></p>

<p>These revelations follow a tragic episode where a US national and a Belizean man fell victim to gunfire at a Tulum beach club located south of Cancun. Quintana Roo's prosecutors clarified that the American woman had no connection to a man, believed to be a drug dealer, who was also killed in the shooting.</p>

<p>The surge of drug-related incidents in Mexico's Quintana Roo state, notably along its the Caribbean coast, has sparked alarm. Recently, foreign tourists have been killed in a series of fatal shootings because of drug-related violence in the region.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In the vibrant Mexican resort town of Cancun, police have cracked down on a notorious drug syndicate, nabbing six members allegedly embroiled in a string of gruesome crimes.

In the vibrant Mexican resort town of Cancun, police have cracked down on a notorious drug syndicate, nabbing six members allegedly embroiled in a string of gruesome crimes. These include the savage slaying and dismemberment of five victims using a machete, and the callous burial of three others in a shallow grave. How the group carried out their crimes According to an Independent UK report quoting prosecutors, this nefarious group, accused of extortion among other offences, operated under the cloak of a web of motorcycle taxis and underage lookouts. Furthermore, authorities announced the arrest of 23 individuals linked to a fake tour agency suspected to be a front for drug trafficking activities in Cancun. Also read | US Senate passes $95 billion aid bill for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan The alleged culprits purportedly ran a call centre, peddling sports gear and holiday packages to unsuspecting tourists — which were never delivered. Yet, on the second floor, was a hub for drug transactions that were made over the phone, and delivered by motorbike couriers. In another crackdown, Cancun authorities arrested an individual who is accused of sourcing and selling drugs via social media platforms. He even offered home delivery. Also read | Robert F Kennedy Jr apologises to family over Super Bowl ad similar to JFK's These revelations follow a tragic episode where a US national and a Belizean man fell victim to gunfire at a Tulum beach club located south of Cancun. Quintana Roo's prosecutors clarified that the American woman had no connection to a man, believed to be a drug dealer, who was also killed in the shooting. The surge of drug-related incidents in Mexico's Quintana Roo state, notably along its the Caribbean coast, has sparked alarm. Recently, foreign tourists have been killed in a series of fatal shootings because of drug-related violence in the region. (With inputs from agencies)

Cancun crackdown: Police bust drug syndicate that hacked to death 5 people with machete

<p>In a digital resurrection that's both eerie and captivating, an unexpected political figure, one who ruled Indonesia with an iron fist, has emerged ahead of the upcoming elections.</p>

<p>A video of the late Suharto, Indonesia's once-feared army general and long-standing president who ruled over the nation for over three decades, went viral on social media, with 4.7 million views on X.</p>

<h2><strong>A deepfake</strong></h2>

<p>In a three-minute video circulating on various online platforms, including X, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube, a stern-faced Suharto tells voters: "I am President Suharto, the second president of Indonesia, inviting you to elect representatives of the people from Golkar."</p>

<p>Pretty convincing on first look, the video upon closer inspection, becomes evident as a deepfake.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-presidential-polls-candidates-take-to-tiktok-to-lure-first-time-voters-689589">Indonesia presidential polls: Candidates take to TikTok to lure first-time voters</a></strong></p>

<p>As per CNN, the real Suharto was known for his perpetual grin that despite his authoritarian governance earned him the affectionate nickname "Smiling General". He passed away in 2008 at the age of 86.</p>

<p>Erwin Aksa, deputy chairman of Golkar, one of Indonesia's prominent political parties, shared the video with the message that when translated to English reads: "The hopes and struggles of the Indonesian people will never be extinguished, they will always be realised in every generation. Indonesia's dreams will always come true. On February 14, 2024, we will determine the fate of the Indonesian nation. We must elect the right people's representatives and leaders for Indonesia, for all Indonesian people."</p>

<p>"This video was made using AI technology to remind us how important our votes are in general elections, which will determine the future so that the hopes of the Indonesian people are realised and prosperous."</p>

<p>Watch the video here:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="in">Harapan dan perjuangan bangsa Indonesia tak akan pernah padam, akan selalu diwujudkan dalam setiap generasi. Mimpi-mimpi Indonesia akan selalu terwujud. Pada 14 Februari 2024, kita akan menentukan nasib bangsa Indonesia. Kita harus memilih wakil rakyat dan pemimpin yang tepat… <a href="https://t.co/Kpvr3WtaKW">pic.twitter.com/Kpvr3WtaKW</a></p>
— Erwin Aksa (@erwinaksa_id) <a href="https://twitter.com/erwinaksa_id/status/1743858270799003875?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Indonesia elections</strong></h2>

<p>With over 200 million voters expected to participate, the political landscape is rife with competition.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/are-you-being-sirius-harry-potter-fans-wand-creates-huge-panic-in-england-hotel-689593">‘Are you being Sirius?’: Harry Potter fan’s wand creates huge panic in England hotel</a></strong></p>

<p>As per the report, Golkar is not fielding its own presidential candidate. However, the party is rallying behind Prabowo Subianto, a former general under Suharto's regime and his erstwhile son-in-law. By resurrecting Suharto's image, Golkar purportedly sought to leverage nostalgia and association to sway voters towards its cause.</p>

<p>While some view this as a strategic move to honour Suharto's legacy, others have condemned it as a manipulation of the electorate.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a digital resurrection that's both eerie and captivating, an unexpected political figure, one who ruled Indonesia with an iron fist, has emerged ahead of the upcoming elections.

In a digital resurrection that's both eerie and captivating, an unexpected political figure, one who ruled Indonesia with an iron fist, has emerged ahead of the upcoming elections. A video of the late Suharto, Indonesia's once-feared army general and long-standing president who ruled over the nation for over three decades, went viral on social media, with 4.7 million views on X. A deepfake In a three-minute video circulating on various online platforms, including X, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube, a stern-faced Suharto tells voters: "I am President Suharto, the second president of Indonesia, inviting you to elect representatives of the people from Golkar." Pretty convincing on first look, the video upon closer inspection, becomes evident as a deepfake. Also read | Indonesia presidential polls: Candidates take to TikTok to lure first-time voters As per CNN, the real Suharto was known for his perpetual grin that despite his authoritarian governance earned him the affectionate nickname "Smiling General". He passed away in 2008 at the age of 86. Erwin Aksa, deputy chairman of Golkar, one of Indonesia's prominent political parties, shared the video with the message that when translated to English reads: "The hopes and struggles of the Indonesian people will never be extinguished, they will always be realised in every generation. Indonesia's dreams will always come true. On February 14, 2024, we will determine the fate of the Indonesian nation. We must elect the right people's representatives and leaders for Indonesia, for all Indonesian people." "This video was made using AI technology to remind us how important our votes are in general elections, which will determine the future so that the hopes of the Indonesian people are realised and prosperous." Watch the video here: Harapan dan perjuangan bangsa Indonesia tak akan pernah padam, akan selalu diwujudkan dalam setiap generasi. Mimpi-mimpi Indonesia akan selalu terwujud. Pada 14 Februari 2024, kita akan menentukan nasib bangsa Indonesia. Kita harus memilih wakil rakyat dan pemimpin yang tepat… pic.twitter.com/Kpvr3WtaKW — Erwin Aksa (@erwinaksa_id) January 7, 2024 × Indonesia elections With over 200 million voters expected to participate, the political landscape is rife with competition. Also read | ‘Are you being Sirius?’: Harry Potter fan’s wand creates huge panic in England hotel As per the report, Golkar is not fielding its own presidential candidate. However, the party is rallying behind Prabowo Subianto, a former general under Suharto's regime and his erstwhile son-in-law. By resurrecting Suharto's image, Golkar purportedly sought to leverage nostalgia and association to sway voters towards its cause. While some view this as a strategic move to honour Suharto's legacy, others have condemned it as a manipulation of the electorate. (With inputs from agencies)

Surprise comeback: Indonesian dictator Suharto 'resurrected' ahead of elections. Watch!

<p>Mankombu Sambasivan Swaminathan aka MS Swaminathan has been announced as one of the recipients of the esteemed Bharat Ratna award. The eminent agronomist and agricultural scientist will be conferred with the prestigious award for his contributions to Indian agriculture and farmer's welfare.</p>

<p>Announcing the award, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on X said: "It is a matter of immense joy that the Government of India is conferring the Bharat Ratna on Dr MS Swaminathan Ji, in recognition of his monumental contributions to our nation in agriculture and farmers’ welfare. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in agriculture during challenging times and made outstanding efforts towards modernizing Indian agriculture."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-former-prime-ministers-pv-narasimha-rao-to-be-awarded-bharat-ratna-688656">India: How PV Narasimha Rao nearly left politics before becoming prime minister</a></strong></p>

<p>"We also recognise his invaluable work as an innovator and mentor and encouraging learning and research among several students. Dr. Swaminathan’s visionary leadership has not only transformed Indian agriculture but also ensured the nation’s food security and prosperity. He was someone I knew closely and l always valued his insights and inputs," he further wrote.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is MS Swaminathan?</strong></h2>

<p>Swaminathan was an Indian agronomist, agricultural scientist, plant geneticist, administrator, and humanitarian.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He is known as the main architect of India's green revolution, due to his leadership and role in introducing and further developing high-yielding varieties of wheat and rice.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>A Saviour</strong></h2>

<p>Swaminathan is known for his efforts that saved India and Pakistan from certain famine-like conditions&nbsp;in the 1960s. He did this in collaboration with Norman Borlaug, an economic agronomist.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bharat-ratna-to-chaudhary-charan-singh-a-true-champion-of-farmers-and-staunch-advocate-of-inclusive-growth-688664">Bharat Ratna to Chaudhary Charan Singh, a true 'champion of farmers' and staunch advocate of inclusive growth</a></strong></p>

<p>Swaminathan was called as the "Father of Economic Ecology" by the United Nations Environment Programme and&nbsp;worked as the director general of the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in the Philippines.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Awards and honours</strong></h2>

<p>Swaminathan who is due to be awarded the Bharat Ratna posthumous, has been the recipient of numerous awards and honours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was the president of the Pugwash Conferences and the International Union for Conservation of Nature. In 1999, he was one of the&nbsp;three Indians, along with Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore, to be featured on Time's list of the 20 most influential Asian people of the 20th century.&nbsp;He was awarded the first World Food Prize, the highest honour in the field of agriculture, in 1987.</p>

<p>His honours include the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award, the Ramon Magsaysay Award and the Albert Einstein World Science Award.&nbsp;Swaminathan passed away last year in September at the age&nbsp;of 98.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Mankombu Sambasivan Swaminathan aka MS Swaminathan has been announced as one of the recipients of the esteemed Bharat Ratna award. The eminent agronomist and agricultural scientist will be conferred with the prestigious award for his contributions to Indian agriculture and farmer's welfare.

Mankombu Sambasivan Swaminathan aka MS Swaminathan has been announced as one of the recipients of the esteemed Bharat Ratna award. The eminent agronomist and agricultural scientist will be conferred with the prestigious award for his contributions to Indian agriculture and farmer's welfare. Announcing the award, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on X said: "It is a matter of immense joy that the Government of India is conferring the Bharat Ratna on Dr MS Swaminathan Ji, in recognition of his monumental contributions to our nation in agriculture and farmers’ welfare. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in agriculture during challenging times and made outstanding efforts towards modernizing Indian agriculture." Also read | India: How PV Narasimha Rao nearly left politics before becoming prime minister "We also recognise his invaluable work as an innovator and mentor and encouraging learning and research among several students. Dr. Swaminathan’s visionary leadership has not only transformed Indian agriculture but also ensured the nation’s food security and prosperity. He was someone I knew closely and l always valued his insights and inputs," he further wrote. Who is MS Swaminathan? Swaminathan was an Indian agronomist, agricultural scientist, plant geneticist, administrator, and humanitarian. He is known as the main architect of India's green revolution, due to his leadership and role in introducing and further developing high-yielding varieties of wheat and rice. A Saviour Swaminathan is known for his efforts that saved India and Pakistan from certain famine-like conditions in the 1960s. He did this in collaboration with Norman Borlaug, an economic agronomist. Also read | Bharat Ratna to Chaudhary Charan Singh, a true 'champion of farmers' and staunch advocate of inclusive growth Swaminathan was called as the "Father of Economic Ecology" by the United Nations Environment Programme and worked as the director general of the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in the Philippines. Awards and honours Swaminathan who is due to be awarded the Bharat Ratna posthumous, has been the recipient of numerous awards and honours. He was the president of the Pugwash Conferences and the International Union for Conservation of Nature. In 1999, he was one of the three Indians, along with Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore, to be featured on Time's list of the 20 most influential Asian people of the 20th century. He was awarded the first World Food Prize, the highest honour in the field of agriculture, in 1987. His honours include the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award, the Ramon Magsaysay Award and the Albert Einstein World Science Award. Swaminathan passed away last year in September at the age of 98. (With inputs from agencies)

'Father of Economic Ecology': All you need to know about Bharat Ratna recipient MS Swaminathan

<p>Six family members, including three children, are feared dead following a tragic incident in a suburban Philadelphia house fire&nbsp;believed to be intentionally set during a shooting that also wounded two police officers, said&nbsp;officials on Thursday.</p>

<h2><strong>How the tragedy unfolded</strong></h2>

<p>The harrowing ordeal began when police responded to a call reporting an 11-year-old child shot in East Lansdowne, near Philadelphia. Upon arrival, officers encountered gunfire, resulting in injuries to two of them.</p>

<p>Subsequently, smoke and flames engulfed the house, which fire investigators believe&nbsp;was started deliberately.</p>

<p>Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer described the search for remains as "gruesome," characterising it as a recovery operation.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tucker-carlson-accuses-biden-administration-of-illegally-spying-on-him-to-prevent-interview-with-putin-688599">Tucker Carlson accuses Biden administration of 'illegally' spying on him to prevent interview with Putin</a></strong></p>

<p>"It's a crime scene, but it's a recovery operation," he said as per USA News. The DA also said that the investigation into who might have been in the home during the tragedy could take "hours, even days."</p>

<p>Firefighters continued their efforts at the scene Thursday morning, with smoke still visible amidst the charred wreckage. An excavator has been employed to dismantle the remaining structure and sift through debris for investigation purposes.</p>

<h2><strong>What about the child that was shot?</strong></h2>

<p>Stollsteimer, as per the report, voiced uncertainty regarding the authenticity of the initial report of a child being shot. He said that it might have been a ploy to lure officers to the house. As per a Philadelphia Inquirer report citing law enforcement sources, the 911 caller and the shooter were likely the same person.</p>

<p>Police have discovered one human torso and a rifle. As per DA Stollsteimer, authorities will likely have to rely on dental records to identify the dead.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-are-the-key-takeaways-from-report-on-joe-bidens-classified-documents-688613">What are the key takeaways from special report on Joe Biden's classified documents?</a></strong></p>

<p>"It will be a gruesome, time-consuming process," he said.</p>

<p>The devastating fire, originating from within the residence, as per reports, has caused extensive damage, complicating efforts to ascertain its cause and the perpetrator of the shooting.</p>

<p>Identified as the Le family's residence, authorities believe three adults and three children perished in the blaze. Two family members, identified as the grandparents, escaped the fire. The grandmother, in a conversation with 6ABC recounted a dispute escalating between her son and his 13-year-old niece.</p>

<h2><strong>Officers injured</strong></h2>

<p>Two officers sustained injuries during the response. Lansdowne Police Officers David Schiazza, 54, and East Lansdowne Police Officer John Meehan, 44, endured gunshot wounds, with Meehan undergoing surgery for his injuries.</p>

<p>"Two of our members were shot today in the line of duty," said the Delaware County Fraternal Order of Police Lodge No. 27 on social media Wednesday night.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"... Our thoughts are with the officers, their friends and family as we hope for a speedy recovery. Thank you to the members who conducted a tactical rescue under fire to save the officers," it&nbsp;added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Six family members, including three children, are feared dead following a tragic incident in a suburban Philadelphia house fire believed to be intentionally set during a shooting that also wounded two police officers, said officials on Thursday.

Six family members, including three children, are feared dead following a tragic incident in a suburban Philadelphia house fire believed to be intentionally set during a shooting that also wounded two police officers, said officials on Thursday. How the tragedy unfolded The harrowing ordeal began when police responded to a call reporting an 11-year-old child shot in East Lansdowne, near Philadelphia. Upon arrival, officers encountered gunfire, resulting in injuries to two of them. Subsequently, smoke and flames engulfed the house, which fire investigators believe was started deliberately. Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer described the search for remains as "gruesome," characterising it as a recovery operation. Also read | Tucker Carlson accuses Biden administration of 'illegally' spying on him to prevent interview with Putin "It's a crime scene, but it's a recovery operation," he said as per USA News. The DA also said that the investigation into who might have been in the home during the tragedy could take "hours, even days." Firefighters continued their efforts at the scene Thursday morning, with smoke still visible amidst the charred wreckage. An excavator has been employed to dismantle the remaining structure and sift through debris for investigation purposes. What about the child that was shot? Stollsteimer, as per the report, voiced uncertainty regarding the authenticity of the initial report of a child being shot. He said that it might have been a ploy to lure officers to the house. As per a Philadelphia Inquirer report citing law enforcement sources, the 911 caller and the shooter were likely the same person. Police have discovered one human torso and a rifle. As per DA Stollsteimer, authorities will likely have to rely on dental records to identify the dead. Also read | What are the key takeaways from special report on Joe Biden's classified documents? "It will be a gruesome, time-consuming process," he said. The devastating fire, originating from within the residence, as per reports, has caused extensive damage, complicating efforts to ascertain its cause and the perpetrator of the shooting. Identified as the Le family's residence, authorities believe three adults and three children perished in the blaze. Two family members, identified as the grandparents, escaped the fire. The grandmother, in a conversation with 6ABC recounted a dispute escalating between her son and his 13-year-old niece. Officers injured Two officers sustained injuries during the response. Lansdowne Police Officers David Schiazza, 54, and East Lansdowne Police Officer John Meehan, 44, endured gunshot wounds, with Meehan undergoing surgery for his injuries. "Two of our members were shot today in the line of duty," said the Delaware County Fraternal Order of Police Lodge No. 27 on social media Wednesday night. "... Our thoughts are with the officers, their friends and family as we hope for a speedy recovery. Thank you to the members who conducted a tactical rescue under fire to save the officers," it added. (With inputs from agencies)

Pennsylvania: Police battle massive house fire amid shooting incident, six feared dead

<p>Scotland's Health Secretary Michael Matheson on Thursday (Feb 8th) quit in the wake of a scandal involving data roaming charges of around £11,000 ($13,855) on his official iPad. In his resignation, the Scottish National Party (SNP) minister said he was standing down to prevent the row from becoming a 'distraction'.</p>

<p>For weeks, Matheson has been pressured to resign while Scotland's First Minister Humza Yousaf was pressured to fire him.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Statement <a href="https://t.co/4Fc5XPnjyD">pic.twitter.com/4Fc5XPnjyD</a></p>
— Michael Matheson MSP (@MathesonMichael) <a href="https://twitter.com/MathesonMichael/status/1755550165400801316?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Why does a roaming bill matter?</strong></h2>

<p>The roaming bill worth thousands of pounds was racked up on Matheson's official device — to be paid from taxpayer money.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sex-tape-scandal-grips-frances-senate-after-female-medic-claims-to-possess-incriminating-video-of-senator-688266">Sex tape scandal grips France’s senate after female medic claims to possess incriminating video of senator</a></strong></p>

<p>The significant cost was incurred while the ex-minister was in Morocco on a Christmas break with his family. He tried to charge the roaming fees to taxpayers by claiming it through expenses.&nbsp;Matheson later said he would foot the bill himself.</p>

<p>After insisting that there had been no personal use of the iPad in November of last year, in an emotional statement to the Scottish Parliament, he admitted that his teenage sons had used the device to watch football.</p>

<p>Of the £11,000, around £7,000 worth of usage was clocked on January 2nd, 2023, the day of an Old Firm fixture between Celtic and Rangers.</p>

<h2><strong>Humza Yousaf faces criticism</strong></h2>

<p>When the news of Matheson's significant roaming bill broke, Yousaf had defended him, saying he was a "man of integrity".</p>

<p>Now, this is coming back to haunt him. As per the Daily Mail, Scottish Conservatives leader Douglas Ross has demanded that "Humza Yousaf must explain why he defended him as a 'man of integrity and honesty' when he knew his former health secretary had lied."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-koreas-yoon-calls-wifes-dior-bag-scandal-a-political-manoeuvre-688285">South Korea's Yoon calls wife's 'Dior bag scandal' a political manoeuvre</a></strong></p>

<p>Furthermore, Scottish Labour deputy leader Jackie Baillie remarked that Yousaf "has big questions to answer over his lack of judgment".</p>

<p>"While I welcome the news that Michael Matheson has finally gone, the fact is the First Minister has big questions to answer over his lack of judgment," said&nbsp;Baillie.</p>

<p>"While our NHS is in crisis, Humza Yousaf has shown his weakness by putting the SNP before our NHS.&nbsp;Now more than ever, we need a health minister focused on the crisis at hand,"&nbsp;she&nbsp;added.</p>

<p>"It’s clear that the First Minister has no plan to save our NHS and that shuffling the SNP deckchairs will make no difference—it's time for change," Baillie further said</p>

<h2><strong>Parliamentary probe</strong></h2>

<p>As per the report, the Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body is probing the data roaming charges. The body can refer Matheson to the Standards, Procedures, and Public Appointments Committee. If that happens, the ex-minster could lose access to 'all or part' of his parliamentary expenses.</p>


Scotland's Health Secretary Michael Matheson on Thursday (Feb 8th) quit in the wake of a scandal involving data roaming charges of around £11,000 ($13,855) on his official iPad.

Scotland's Health Secretary Michael Matheson on Thursday (Feb 8th) quit in the wake of a scandal involving data roaming charges of around £11,000 ($13,855) on his official iPad. In his resignation, the Scottish National Party (SNP) minister said he was standing down to prevent the row from becoming a 'distraction'. For weeks, Matheson has been pressured to resign while Scotland's First Minister Humza Yousaf was pressured to fire him. Statement pic.twitter.com/4Fc5XPnjyD — Michael Matheson MSP (@MathesonMichael) February 8, 2024 × Why does a roaming bill matter? The roaming bill worth thousands of pounds was racked up on Matheson's official device — to be paid from taxpayer money. Also read | Sex tape scandal grips France’s senate after female medic claims to possess incriminating video of senator The significant cost was incurred while the ex-minister was in Morocco on a Christmas break with his family. He tried to charge the roaming fees to taxpayers by claiming it through expenses. Matheson later said he would foot the bill himself. After insisting that there had been no personal use of the iPad in November of last year, in an emotional statement to the Scottish Parliament, he admitted that his teenage sons had used the device to watch football. Of the £11,000, around £7,000 worth of usage was clocked on January 2nd, 2023, the day of an Old Firm fixture between Celtic and Rangers. Humza Yousaf faces criticism When the news of Matheson's significant roaming bill broke, Yousaf had defended him, saying he was a "man of integrity". Now, this is coming back to haunt him. As per the Daily Mail, Scottish Conservatives leader Douglas Ross has demanded that "Humza Yousaf must explain why he defended him as a 'man of integrity and honesty' when he knew his former health secretary had lied." Also read | South Korea's Yoon calls wife's 'Dior bag scandal' a political manoeuvre Furthermore, Scottish Labour deputy leader Jackie Baillie remarked that Yousaf "has big questions to answer over his lack of judgment". "While I welcome the news that Michael Matheson has finally gone, the fact is the First Minister has big questions to answer over his lack of judgment," said Baillie. "While our NHS is in crisis, Humza Yousaf has shown his weakness by putting the SNP before our NHS. Now more than ever, we need a health minister focused on the crisis at hand," she added. "It’s clear that the First Minister has no plan to save our NHS and that shuffling the SNP deckchairs will make no difference—it's time for change," Baillie further said Parliamentary probe As per the report, the Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body is probing the data roaming charges. The body can refer Matheson to the Standards, Procedures, and Public Appointments Committee. If that happens, the ex-minster could lose access to 'all or part' of his parliamentary expenses.

£11,000 iPad roaming bill forces Scotland minister Michael Matheson to resign. Here's what happened

<p>Google has agreed to shell out $350 million to settle a lawsuit brought by shareholders over a security flaw at its now-defunct Google+ social media platform. A preliminary settlement was filed on Monday (Feb 5th) in San Francisco federal court after more than a year of mediation, and it now awaits the nod from US District Judge Trina Thompson.</p>

<h2><strong>The lawsuit</strong></h2>

<p>The lawsuit, as per Reuters, alleges that around March 2018, Google got wind of a software glitch which had left the personal data of Google+ users exposed. The bug it alleges had persisted for three years. However, rather than promptly addressing the issue, Google allegedly kept it under wraps for months, all the while publicly stressing its commitment to data security.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-32-israeli-hostages-in-hamas-custody-dead-claims-report-687612">Middle East crisis: 32 Israeli hostages in Hamas custody dead, claims report</a></strong></p>

<p>Shareholders contend that Google's reluctance to disclose the problem stemmed from fears of facing regulatory and public scrutiny akin to Facebook's post-Cambridge Analytica scandal fallout, where user data was harvested without consent for the 2016 US elections.</p>

<p>The complaint also underscored the fall of Alphabet's stock value, which, as per the report, wiped out billions of dollars off of its market value.</p>

<h2><strong>Google maintains innocence</strong></h2>

<p>Despite consenting to the settlement, Google continues to deny any wrongdoing, and contends that there is no evidence of data misuse.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jose Castaneda, a Google spokesperson, said: "We regularly identify and fix software issues, disclose information about them, and take these issues seriously. This matter concerns a product that no longer exists, and we are pleased to have it resolved."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/the-best-is-yet-to-come-mark-zuckerberg-celebrates-20-years-of-facebook-687251">‘The best is yet to come’: Mark Zuckerberg celebrates 20 years of Facebook</a></strong></p>

<p>Earlier, Google had reached a $7.5 million settlement with Google+ users in 2020 related to the same issue.</p>

<p>The revelation of Monday's settlement follows Google's resolution of another lawsuit alleging the covert tracking of millions of users' internet activities. The terms of that settlement have yet to be disclosed.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Google has agreed to shell out $350 million to settle a lawsuit brought by shareholders over a security flaw at its now-defunct Google+ social media platform. A preliminary settlement was filed on Monday (Feb 5th) in San Francisco federal court after more than a year of mediation, and it now awaits the nod from US District Judge Trina Thompson.

Google has agreed to shell out $350 million to settle a lawsuit brought by shareholders over a security flaw at its now-defunct Google+ social media platform. A preliminary settlement was filed on Monday (Feb 5th) in San Francisco federal court after more than a year of mediation, and it now awaits the nod from US District Judge Trina Thompson. The lawsuit The lawsuit, as per Reuters, alleges that around March 2018, Google got wind of a software glitch which had left the personal data of Google+ users exposed. The bug it alleges had persisted for three years. However, rather than promptly addressing the issue, Google allegedly kept it under wraps for months, all the while publicly stressing its commitment to data security. Also read | Middle East crisis: 32 Israeli hostages in Hamas custody dead, claims report Shareholders contend that Google's reluctance to disclose the problem stemmed from fears of facing regulatory and public scrutiny akin to Facebook's post-Cambridge Analytica scandal fallout, where user data was harvested without consent for the 2016 US elections. The complaint also underscored the fall of Alphabet's stock value, which, as per the report, wiped out billions of dollars off of its market value. Google maintains innocence Despite consenting to the settlement, Google continues to deny any wrongdoing, and contends that there is no evidence of data misuse. Jose Castaneda, a Google spokesperson, said: "We regularly identify and fix software issues, disclose information about them, and take these issues seriously. This matter concerns a product that no longer exists, and we are pleased to have it resolved." Also read | ‘The best is yet to come’: Mark Zuckerberg celebrates 20 years of Facebook Earlier, Google had reached a $7.5 million settlement with Google+ users in 2020 related to the same issue. The revelation of Monday's settlement follows Google's resolution of another lawsuit alleging the covert tracking of millions of users' internet activities. The terms of that settlement have yet to be disclosed. (With inputs from agencies)

Google to shell out $350 million to settle data privacy lawsuit

<p>President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday embarked on a Delhi Metro ride, during which she engaged with school students. This marked her inaugural ride on the Metro since assuming office as the President.</p>

<h2><strong>Second Indian President to ride the metro</strong></h2>

<p>With this, Murmu has become only the second serving President of India to experience the convenience of the Delhi Metro. Before her, in 2012, President Pratibha Patil also travelled in the Metro.</p>

<p>On X, the Rashtrapati Bhavan shared a post which said: "President Droupadi Murmu travelled in Delhi Metro and interacted with school children during the ride."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">President Droupadi Murmu travelled in Delhi Metro and interacted with school children during the ride.<br />
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President Murmu also flagged off shuttle bus service between Central Secretariat Metro Station (Gate 4) and Amrit Udyan (Gate 35) for visitors coming to Amrit Udyan at every… <a href="https://t.co/ECCk8HtI2K">pic.twitter.com/ECCk8HtI2K</a></p>
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1755169543935144124?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-first-commercial-patient-declared-cancer-free-using-indigenous-car-t-cell-therapy-687858">India: First patient declared ‘cancer-free’ using indigenous CAR-T cell therapy</a></strong></p>

<p>Additionally, she inaugurated a shuttle bus service connecting the Central Secretariat Metro Station (gate no 4) and Amrit Udyan (gate no 35), benefiting visitors to Amrit Udyan. This service operates every 30 minutes from 9.30 am to 5 pm, added the post.</p>

<p>During her conversation with the students aboard the train, President Murmu Asked the children about their career aspirations, said officials.</p>

<p>Watch the video here:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="sl"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | President Droupadi Murmu takes a metro ride in Delhi. <a href="https://t.co/Elc2pdUmHJ">pic.twitter.com/Elc2pdUmHJ</a></p>
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<p>She started her journey at the Central Secretariat Metro Station on the Kashmere Gate — Raja Nahar Singh Violet Line corridor. From there, she travelled up to the Nehru Place Metro Station before returning to Central Secretariat.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>World-class Metro</strong></h2>

<p>Accompanying her on this metro journey was Vikas Kumar, the Managing Director of the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). Kumar provided insights into the DMRC's operations and ongoing construction projects.</p>

<p>President Murmu used an NCMC (National Common Mobility Card) RuPay card on the ride.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/space-industry-bodies-from-india-and-australia-ink-pact-to-further-cooperation-687886">Space industry bodies from India and Australia ink pact to further cooperation</a></strong></p>

<p>In the visitor's book, she expressed admiration for the Delhi Metro, describing her journey as pleasant.</p>

<p>Delhi Metro is considered one of the most modern and efficient mass transportation systems in the world today, she said.</p>

<p>Murmu commended its world-class performance across critical parameters, affirming that it has brought pride to the nation.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday embarked on a Delhi Metro ride, during which she engaged with school students. This marked her inaugural ride on the Metro since assuming office as the President.

President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday embarked on a Delhi Metro ride, during which she engaged with school students. This marked her inaugural ride on the Metro since assuming office as the President. Second Indian President to ride the metro With this, Murmu has become only the second serving President of India to experience the convenience of the Delhi Metro. Before her, in 2012, President Pratibha Patil also travelled in the Metro. On X, the Rashtrapati Bhavan shared a post which said: "President Droupadi Murmu travelled in Delhi Metro and interacted with school children during the ride." President Droupadi Murmu travelled in Delhi Metro and interacted with school children during the ride. President Murmu also flagged off shuttle bus service between Central Secretariat Metro Station (Gate 4) and Amrit Udyan (Gate 35) for visitors coming to Amrit Udyan at every… pic.twitter.com/ECCk8HtI2K — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) February 7, 2024 × Also read | India: First patient declared ‘cancer-free’ using indigenous CAR-T cell therapy Additionally, she inaugurated a shuttle bus service connecting the Central Secretariat Metro Station (gate no 4) and Amrit Udyan (gate no 35), benefiting visitors to Amrit Udyan. This service operates every 30 minutes from 9.30 am to 5 pm, added the post. During her conversation with the students aboard the train, President Murmu Asked the children about their career aspirations, said officials. Watch the video here: #WATCH | President Droupadi Murmu takes a metro ride in Delhi. pic.twitter.com/Elc2pdUmHJ — ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2024 × She started her journey at the Central Secretariat Metro Station on the Kashmere Gate — Raja Nahar Singh Violet Line corridor. From there, she travelled up to the Nehru Place Metro Station before returning to Central Secretariat. World-class Metro Accompanying her on this metro journey was Vikas Kumar, the Managing Director of the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). Kumar provided insights into the DMRC's operations and ongoing construction projects. President Murmu used an NCMC (National Common Mobility Card) RuPay card on the ride. Also read | Space industry bodies from India and Australia ink pact to further cooperation In the visitor's book, she expressed admiration for the Delhi Metro, describing her journey as pleasant. Delhi Metro is considered one of the most modern and efficient mass transportation systems in the world today, she said. Murmu commended its world-class performance across critical parameters, affirming that it has brought pride to the nation. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Indian President Murmu travels via Delhi Metro, engages with school children

<p>In Beijing, China, on Monday, Australian writer and pro-democracy blogger Yang Hengjun found himself on the receiving end of a suspended death sentence. The move has stirred controversy and drawn attention from human rights advocates who have deemed it an unusually harsh verdict in an espionage-related case.</p>

<p>But what is a suspended death penalty? Here's all you need to know.</p>

<h2><strong>Unravelling the suspended death penalty</strong></h2>

<p>Since 2007, the Chinese judicial authorities have implemented a top-down capital punishment reform in order to reduce the number of death sentences.</p>

<p>In China, suspended death penalty or 'sihuan zhidu' is a form of punishment that provides the accused with a two-year reprieve from execution.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-writer-yang-hengjun-given-suspended-death-sentence-in-china-687028">Australian-Chinese writer Yang Hengjun given suspended death sentence in China. Who is he?</a></strong></p>

<p>As per the National University of Singapore, after this period," the death sentence may be commuted to life imprisonment if the convict has not committed an "intentional crime" during the two-year reprieve, or to a fixed-term imprisonment of 25 years if the convict has performed "great meritorious service". Throughout this reprieve period, the individual remains behind bars.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This sentencing tactic as per Ryan Mitchell, a law professor at the University of Hong Kong, has gained traction in recent times as a means of curbing executions without fully abolishing the death penalty.</p>

<p>"It has been used more commonly in recent years as a way to reduce the prevalence of executions without abolishing the death penalty altogether," said Mitchell, as quoted by Reuters.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-satoshi-nakamoto-war-begins-in-the-uk-court-to-decide-on-bitcoin-founders-identity-687233">Who is Satoshi Nakamoto? 'War' begins in the UK court to decide on Bitcoin founder’s identity</a></strong></p>

<p>The exact prevalence of death sentences, including their suspension, as per the Hong Kong University professor are concealed in secrecy by the Chinese government.</p>

<p>Mitchell, a law professor shed, light on the versatility of the suspended death sentence, emphasising its application across various cases rather than being confined to a specific crime type.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The sentence is used for a wide range of cases, and isn't associated with one particular type of crime," he said.</p>

<p>It is frequently employed for offences deemed to have a "serious negative social impact," such as drug trafficking, he said.</p>

<h2><strong>Recent suspended death sentences</strong></h2>

<p>Recent instances of suspended death sentences include a former vice chairman of China's banking regulator, who was sentenced in December for bribery and abuse of power. Additionally, the sentence was also awarded to former justice minister Fu Zhenghua in 2022 for corruption, taking bribes.</p>

<h2><strong>Potential for Yang's deportation</strong></h2>

<p>While parole typically remains elusive until halfway through a fixed term or after ten years in the case of life imprisonment, Mitchell noted that exceptions can be made in "special circumstances" by China's top court.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This flexibility might allow for diplomatic leverage to influence Yang's fate following the two-year reprieve.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/the-best-is-yet-to-come-mark-zuckerberg-celebrates-20-years-of-facebook-687251">‘The best is yet to come’: Mark Zuckerberg celebrates 20 years of Facebook</a></strong></p>

<p>"For a case of this nature, the availability of that discretion after the two-year period concludes would help to maintain a certain degree of diplomatic leverage," he said.</p>

<h2><strong>A death sentence for Yang</strong></h2>

<p>Despite its "suspended" nature, the sentence essentially functions as a death penalty for Yang Hengjun, said Elaine Pearson, director of Human Rights Watch's Asia Division, underscoring the gravity of the situation.</p>

<p>According to her, due to his deteriorating health and the inadequate medical care received in prison, the Australian writer and pro-democracy blogger won't survive the sentence.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>A rare sentence</strong></h2>

<p>Patrick Poon, an independent human rights analyst, highlighted the rarity of espionage cases receiving suspended death sentences in China. He said it was "very rare to see espionage cases get a suspended death sentence" especially given Australia's vocal demands for Yang's release.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The possibility of deportation remains uncertain, prompting questions about the level of international and diplomatic pressure on the Chinese government.</p>

<p>"It becomes another issue of how much international and diplomatic pressure is put on the Chinese government," said Poon. As per Reuters, he was referring to the cases of Australian national Cheng Lei and the Canadian "two Michaels", who were eventually deported back to their home countries after similarly being tried on espionage allegations.</p>

<p>"There is still a possibility that Yang may be deported, but it's unclear for the moment," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Opacity and international scrutiny</strong></h2>

<p>China's foreign ministry confirmed Yang's sentence, labelling him guilty of espionage without divulging the specifics of the charges.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, spokesperson Wang Wenbin assured that the trial adhered strictly to the law, and the "Australian side" was permitted to witness the sentencing.</p>

<p>"The court heard the trial in strict accordance with the law and ensured his procedural rights," he said.</p>

<p>However, the lack of transparency in China's legal proceedings is well known. In this case, a prohibition has been placed on Yang's lawyers, including prominent human rights advocate Mo Shaoping, from publicly discussing the case.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Elaine Pearson of Human Rights Watch remarked that "This case really spotlights what happens to people who are arbitrarily detained on national security charges in China, and it highlights the opaqueness of the criminal justice system."</p>

<p>With Chinese courts boasting a staggering 99.9 per cent conviction rate, cases involving national security or the death penalty never see the light of day online, reports the news agency.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In Beijing, China, on Monday, Australian writer and pro-democracy blogger Yang Hengjun found himself on the receiving end of a suspended death sentence. The move has stirred controversy and drawn attention from human rights advocates who have deemed it an unusually harsh verdict in an espionage-related case.

In Beijing, China, on Monday, Australian writer and pro-democracy blogger Yang Hengjun found himself on the receiving end of a suspended death sentence. The move has stirred controversy and drawn attention from human rights advocates who have deemed it an unusually harsh verdict in an espionage-related case. But what is a suspended death penalty? Here's all you need to know. Unravelling the suspended death penalty Since 2007, the Chinese judicial authorities have implemented a top-down capital punishment reform in order to reduce the number of death sentences. In China, suspended death penalty or 'sihuan zhidu' is a form of punishment that provides the accused with a two-year reprieve from execution. Also read | Australian-Chinese writer Yang Hengjun given suspended death sentence in China. Who is he? As per the National University of Singapore, after this period," the death sentence may be commuted to life imprisonment if the convict has not committed an "intentional crime" during the two-year reprieve, or to a fixed-term imprisonment of 25 years if the convict has performed "great meritorious service". Throughout this reprieve period, the individual remains behind bars. This sentencing tactic as per Ryan Mitchell, a law professor at the University of Hong Kong, has gained traction in recent times as a means of curbing executions without fully abolishing the death penalty. "It has been used more commonly in recent years as a way to reduce the prevalence of executions without abolishing the death penalty altogether," said Mitchell, as quoted by Reuters. Also read | Who is Satoshi Nakamoto? 'War' begins in the UK court to decide on Bitcoin founder’s identity The exact prevalence of death sentences, including their suspension, as per the Hong Kong University professor are concealed in secrecy by the Chinese government. Mitchell, a law professor shed, light on the versatility of the suspended death sentence, emphasising its application across various cases rather than being confined to a specific crime type. "The sentence is used for a wide range of cases, and isn't associated with one particular type of crime," he said. It is frequently employed for offences deemed to have a "serious negative social impact," such as drug trafficking, he said. Recent suspended death sentences Recent instances of suspended death sentences include a former vice chairman of China's banking regulator, who was sentenced in December for bribery and abuse of power. Additionally, the sentence was also awarded to former justice minister Fu Zhenghua in 2022 for corruption, taking bribes. Potential for Yang's deportation While parole typically remains elusive until halfway through a fixed term or after ten years in the case of life imprisonment, Mitchell noted that exceptions can be made in "special circumstances" by China's top court. This flexibility might allow for diplomatic leverage to influence Yang's fate following the two-year reprieve. Also read | ‘The best is yet to come’: Mark Zuckerberg celebrates 20 years of Facebook "For a case of this nature, the availability of that discretion after the two-year period concludes would help to maintain a certain degree of diplomatic leverage," he said. A death sentence for Yang Despite its "suspended" nature, the sentence essentially functions as a death penalty for Yang Hengjun, said Elaine Pearson, director of Human Rights Watch's Asia Division, underscoring the gravity of the situation. According to her, due to his deteriorating health and the inadequate medical care received in prison, the Australian writer and pro-democracy blogger won't survive the sentence. A rare sentence Patrick Poon, an independent human rights analyst, highlighted the rarity of espionage cases receiving suspended death sentences in China. He said it was "very rare to see espionage cases get a suspended death sentence" especially given Australia's vocal demands for Yang's release. The possibility of deportation remains uncertain, prompting questions about the level of international and diplomatic pressure on the Chinese government. "It becomes another issue of how much international and diplomatic pressure is put on the Chinese government," said Poon. As per Reuters, he was referring to the cases of Australian national Cheng Lei and the Canadian "two Michaels", who were eventually deported back to their home countries after similarly being tried on espionage allegations. "There is still a possibility that Yang may be deported, but it's unclear for the moment," he added. Opacity and international scrutiny China's foreign ministry confirmed Yang's sentence, labelling him guilty of espionage without divulging the specifics of the charges. However, spokesperson Wang Wenbin assured that the trial adhered strictly to the law, and the "Australian side" was permitted to witness the sentencing. "The court heard the trial in strict accordance with the law and ensured his procedural rights," he said. However, the lack of transparency in China's legal proceedings is well known. In this case, a prohibition has been placed on Yang's lawyers, including prominent human rights advocate Mo Shaoping, from publicly discussing the case. Elaine Pearson of Human Rights Watch remarked that "This case really spotlights what happens to people who are arbitrarily detained on national security charges in China, and it highlights the opaqueness of the criminal justice system." With Chinese courts boasting a staggering 99.9 per cent conviction rate, cases involving national security or the death penalty never see the light of day online, reports the news agency. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Understanding China’s ‘suspended death sentence’ to Australian blogger Yang Hengjun

<p>Globally there has been a surge in deadly shark attacks, shows new international research. These attacks were especially recorded in isolated areas. Last year (in 2023), globally, there were 10 fatal shark attacks — twice as many as the previous year. Shockingly, four fatalities were in Australia.</p>

<h2><strong>'Unprovoked' attacks</strong></h2>

<p>The data showed that compared to people swimming, surfers were slightly more at risk — accounting for 42 per cent of the 69 so-called "unprovoked" shark bites worldwide. This is higher than the five-year average of 63 attacks.</p>

<p>In 2023, 22 per cent or 15 of these unprovoked incidents occurred in the land down under. However, 40 per cent of them ended in death.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/social-media-pushing-youngsters-towards-more-misogynistic-content-finds-study-687528">Social media pushing youngsters towards more misogynistic content, finds study</a></strong></p>

<p>Outside of Australia, two deadly shark attacks were recorded in the US. Furthermore, the Bahamas, Egypt, Mexico, and New Caledonia each recorded one fatality.</p>

<p>Reports of non-fatal shark bites came in from Costa Rica, Colombia, Brazil, New Seychelles, Turks and Caicos, Ecuador, South Africa, and the US.</p>

<p>According to researchers at the University of Florida’s International Shark Attack File, the study focused on bites which have occurred without human provocation and provides valuable insights into shark behaviour.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Our annual shark bite report for 2023 is now available online. There were a total of 69 recorded, consistent with recent trends, and an uptick in the number of fatalities.<br />
<br />
Full story and data: <a href="https://t.co/pg3uFDGNZJ">https://t.co/pg3uFDGNZJ</a><br />
<br />
Summary report: <a href="https://t.co/K18ueW3rAO">https://t.co/K18ueW3rAO</a> <a href="https://t.co/CdfRJxbmt7">pic.twitter.com/CdfRJxbmt7</a></p>
— Florida Museum (@FloridaMuseum) <a href="https://twitter.com/FloridaMuseum/status/1754507214738620476?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Unprovoked bites, as per the Florida Museum of Natural History's website, are "incidents in which a bite on a live human occurs in the shark's natural habitat with no human provocation of the shark."</p>

<h2><strong>Provoked bites</strong></h2>

<p>As per the Guardian, another 22 attacks were recorded where spearfishing was a common activity. However, these were left out of the study after being considered 'provoked'.</p>

<p>As per the museum, provoked bites "occur when a human initiates interaction with a shark in some way."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gavin Naylor, director of shark research at the Florida Museum of Natural History, noted that while the number of bites aligned with long-term trends, the increase in fatalities was concerning.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-airport-ground-worker-falls-from-truck-gets-killed-by-plane-being-towed-behind-it-687544">Hong Kong airport: Ground worker falls from truck, dies after being&nbsp;struck&nbsp;by&nbsp;plane</a></strong></p>

<p>"This is within the range of the normal number of bites, though the fatalities are a bit unnerving this year," he said.</p>

<p>Three of the fatal attacks in 2023 happened off South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula, known for its high population of white sharks and seals, their main prey.</p>

<p>According to Naylor, seals’ agility means only those behaving erratically are caught, similar to surfers. A bull shark also claimed the life of a teenage girl in Western Australia’s Swan River.</p>

<p>Despite these incidents, the number of fatal attacks in Australian waters in 2023 remained below the decade’s peak in 2020.</p>

<p>Researchers noted that most attacks were "test bites," where sharks mistake people for prey. While sharks usually swim away after such incidents, unusual cases involving repeated or particularly harsh bites have proven fatal. In conclusion, the shark attack file noted that the "risk of being bitten by a shark remains extremely low."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Globally there has been a surge in deadly shark attacks, shows new international research. These attacks were especially recorded in isolated areas. Last year (in 2023), globally, there were 10 fatal shark attacks — twice as many as the previous year.

Globally there has been a surge in deadly shark attacks, shows new international research. These attacks were especially recorded in isolated areas. Last year (in 2023), globally, there were 10 fatal shark attacks — twice as many as the previous year. Shockingly, four fatalities were in Australia. 'Unprovoked' attacks The data showed that compared to people swimming, surfers were slightly more at risk — accounting for 42 per cent of the 69 so-called "unprovoked" shark bites worldwide. This is higher than the five-year average of 63 attacks. In 2023, 22 per cent or 15 of these unprovoked incidents occurred in the land down under. However, 40 per cent of them ended in death. Also read | Social media pushing youngsters towards more misogynistic content, finds study Outside of Australia, two deadly shark attacks were recorded in the US. Furthermore, the Bahamas, Egypt, Mexico, and New Caledonia each recorded one fatality. Reports of non-fatal shark bites came in from Costa Rica, Colombia, Brazil, New Seychelles, Turks and Caicos, Ecuador, South Africa, and the US. According to researchers at the University of Florida’s International Shark Attack File, the study focused on bites which have occurred without human provocation and provides valuable insights into shark behaviour. Our annual shark bite report for 2023 is now available online. There were a total of 69 recorded, consistent with recent trends, and an uptick in the number of fatalities. Full story and data: https://t.co/pg3uFDGNZJ Summary report: https://t.co/K18ueW3rAO pic.twitter.com/CdfRJxbmt7 — Florida Museum (@FloridaMuseum) February 5, 2024 × Unprovoked bites, as per the Florida Museum of Natural History's website, are "incidents in which a bite on a live human occurs in the shark's natural habitat with no human provocation of the shark." Provoked bites As per the Guardian, another 22 attacks were recorded where spearfishing was a common activity. However, these were left out of the study after being considered 'provoked'. As per the museum, provoked bites "occur when a human initiates interaction with a shark in some way." Gavin Naylor, director of shark research at the Florida Museum of Natural History, noted that while the number of bites aligned with long-term trends, the increase in fatalities was concerning. Also read | Hong Kong airport: Ground worker falls from truck, dies after being struck by plane "This is within the range of the normal number of bites, though the fatalities are a bit unnerving this year," he said. Three of the fatal attacks in 2023 happened off South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula, known for its high population of white sharks and seals, their main prey. According to Naylor, seals’ agility means only those behaving erratically are caught, similar to surfers. A bull shark also claimed the life of a teenage girl in Western Australia’s Swan River. Despite these incidents, the number of fatal attacks in Australian waters in 2023 remained below the decade’s peak in 2020. Researchers noted that most attacks were "test bites," where sharks mistake people for prey. While sharks usually swim away after such incidents, unusual cases involving repeated or particularly harsh bites have proven fatal. In conclusion, the shark attack file noted that the "risk of being bitten by a shark remains extremely low." (With inputs from agencies)

Shark attacks doubled in 2023, finds study

<p>Is social media pushing youngsters towards more misogynistic content? As per a new research, yes.&nbsp;A study by teams at University College London and the University of Kent found that social media platforms are amplifying extreme misogynistic content. Such content, it says, is now spreading from teenagers' screens and onto playgrounds where it has now become normalised.</p>

<h2><strong>Shocking findings</strong></h2>

<p>In this particular study, researchers looked at TikTok. They found that over a five-day period of monitoring, there was a four-fold increase in the level of misogynistic content the social media platform suggested. Suggested content included extreme videos that focussed on anger and blame directed at women.</p>

<p>As per the Guardian, researchers say while the results may be from TikTok only, but that they are likely to apply to other social media platforms.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-us-tiktoker-purchases-foldable-house-from-amazon-video-goes-viral-687471">Watch: US TikToker purchases foldable house from Amazon. Video goes viral</a></strong></p>

<p>The study called 'Safer Scrolling' argues that social media algorithms are pushing harmful content to teenagers and young people under the guise of entertainment.</p>

<p>As per the study, toxic, hateful or misogynistic material is "pushed" to young people, normalising harmful ideologies. It says that boys with anxiety and mental health issues are at an increased risk from such content.</p>

<h2><strong>Study methodology</strong></h2>

<p>Researchers began by interviewing young people who engage with and producing radical online content. Based on the interviews, they established "archetypes, to represent typologies of teenage boys who may be vulnerable to becoming radicalised by online content." Based on that, they set up accounts on TikTok with specific content interests — for example, someone seeking out content on masculinity or addressing loneliness.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Finally, researchers used this to watch video content suggestions on the 'for you' page over a period of seven days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Initially, content suggestions were in line with the chosen interests of each archetype. However, over time, it evolved into anger and blame directed at women. Five days into the research, TikTok was suggesting content such as objectification, sexual harassment or discrediting women — increasing four-fold, from 13 per cent of recommended videos to 56 per cent.</p>

<p>Finally, roundtables and interviews with school leaders revealed that such misogynistic tropes are becoming normal in in-person interactions, as well.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/meta-slammed-for-incoherent-deepfake-policy-after-viral-biden-video-687441">Meta slammed for 'incoherent' deepfake policy after viral Biden video</a></strong></p>

<p>"UCL's findings show that algorithms – which most of us know little about – have a snowball effect in which they serve up ever-more extreme content in the form of entertainment," remarks, Geoff Barton, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, which collaborated with the research.</p>

<p>"This is deeply worrying in general but particularly so in respect of the amplification of messages around toxic masculinity and its impact on young people who need to be able to grow up and develop their understanding of the world without being influenced by such appalling material" he added, as quoted by The guardian.</p>

<h2><strong>What the researchers recommend</strong></h2>

<p>Researchers recommend a "healthy digital diet" education, holding social media companies accountable, peer-to-peer monitoring, and promotion of wider awareness of algorithmic processes among parents and the community at large.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Is social media pushing youngsters towards more misogynistic content? As per a new research, yes. A study by teams at University College London and the University of Kent found that social media platforms are amplifying extreme misogynistic content.

Is social media pushing youngsters towards more misogynistic content? As per a new research, yes. A study by teams at University College London and the University of Kent found that social media platforms are amplifying extreme misogynistic content. Such content, it says, is now spreading from teenagers' screens and onto playgrounds where it has now become normalised. Shocking findings In this particular study, researchers looked at TikTok. They found that over a five-day period of monitoring, there was a four-fold increase in the level of misogynistic content the social media platform suggested. Suggested content included extreme videos that focussed on anger and blame directed at women. As per the Guardian, researchers say while the results may be from TikTok only, but that they are likely to apply to other social media platforms. Also read | Watch: US TikToker purchases foldable house from Amazon. Video goes viral The study called 'Safer Scrolling' argues that social media algorithms are pushing harmful content to teenagers and young people under the guise of entertainment. As per the study, toxic, hateful or misogynistic material is "pushed" to young people, normalising harmful ideologies. It says that boys with anxiety and mental health issues are at an increased risk from such content. Study methodology Researchers began by interviewing young people who engage with and producing radical online content. Based on the interviews, they established "archetypes, to represent typologies of teenage boys who may be vulnerable to becoming radicalised by online content." Based on that, they set up accounts on TikTok with specific content interests — for example, someone seeking out content on masculinity or addressing loneliness. Finally, researchers used this to watch video content suggestions on the 'for you' page over a period of seven days. Initially, content suggestions were in line with the chosen interests of each archetype. However, over time, it evolved into anger and blame directed at women. Five days into the research, TikTok was suggesting content such as objectification, sexual harassment or discrediting women — increasing four-fold, from 13 per cent of recommended videos to 56 per cent. Finally, roundtables and interviews with school leaders revealed that such misogynistic tropes are becoming normal in in-person interactions, as well. Also read | Meta slammed for 'incoherent' deepfake policy after viral Biden video "UCL's findings show that algorithms – which most of us know little about – have a snowball effect in which they serve up ever-more extreme content in the form of entertainment," remarks, Geoff Barton, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, which collaborated with the research. "This is deeply worrying in general but particularly so in respect of the amplification of messages around toxic masculinity and its impact on young people who need to be able to grow up and develop their understanding of the world without being influenced by such appalling material" he added, as quoted by The guardian. What the researchers recommend Researchers recommend a "healthy digital diet" education, holding social media companies accountable, peer-to-peer monitoring, and promotion of wider awareness of algorithmic processes among parents and the community at large. (With inputs from agencies)

Social media pushing youngsters towards more misogynistic content, finds study

<p>Mark Zuckerberg, the co-founder of Facebook, now Meta, on Sunday (Feb 4th) celebrated 20 years of the social media platform.</p>

<p>Posting a throwback video on Meta-owned social media platform Instagram, Zuckerberg wrote: "20 years ago, I launched a thing. Along the way, lots of amazing people joined, and we built some more awesome things. We're still at it, and the best is yet to come."</p>

<h2><strong>The video</strong></h2>

<p>The 25-second video, technically called a reel, featured the Meta CEO from his younger days, back when Facebook was first launched on February 4, 2004.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-satoshi-nakamoto-war-begins-in-the-uk-court-to-decide-on-bitcoin-founders-identity-687233">Who is Satoshi Nakamoto? 'War' begins in the UK, court to decide on Bitcoin founder’s identity</a></strong></p>

<p>Zuckerberg's&nbsp;video is a montage&nbsp;of photos and videos from the 20-year journey. It starts with a message "I have a feeling this is going to go by really fast," before moving on to feature the pictures and clips to Aerosmith's "Dream On."</p>

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<p>The video, among others, features&nbsp;Edwardo Saverin, who helped found Facebook. Zuckerberg and Saverin had a major falling out and engaged in a major legal battle, which saw the ex-friends filing lawsuits against one another.</p>

<p>Also featured are Zuckerberg's wife, Priscilla Chan, and former Meta Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg, who stepped down in 2022. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musks-illegal-drug-use-silence-of-board-and-money-ties-with-directors-what-wsjs-new-report-claims-687186">Musk’s ‘illegal drug use’, silence of board and money ties with directors: What WSJ’s new report claims</a></strong></p>

<p>He also posted several other posts to his account @zuck. One featured then-and-now pictures of him sitting at a desk working on computers. The pictures, which are 20 years apart, showcased widely different computer setups. One similarity the two shots shared is a variety of caffeine-laced drinks.</p>

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<h2><strong>Facebook: a short history</strong></h2>

<p>The platform was launched in 2004 and is credited with ushering in a new era of communication. It was Zuckerberg and co-founders Dustin Moskovitz and Eduardo Saverin.</p>

<p>Within months of its launch, Facebook hit one million active users. The following year, Facebook introduced the feature to add photos and also came up with news feed.</p>

<p>In 2009, it introduced the well-known 'like' button. By the end of the decade, the platform clocked 500 million active users.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, with the emergence of other popular platforms like TikTok, and Instagram, it has now got left behind, with mostly the older generation using it. In February 2022, as per Business Standard, Facebook's total number of users declined to 1.9 billion for the first time.</p>


Mark Zuckerberg, the co-founder of Facebook, now Meta, on Sunday (Feb 4th) celebrated 20 years of the social media platform. Posting a throwback video on Meta-owned social media platform Instagram, Zuckerberg wrote: "20 years ago, I launched a thing.

Mark Zuckerberg, the co-founder of Facebook, now Meta, on Sunday (Feb 4th) celebrated 20 years of the social media platform. Posting a throwback video on Meta-owned social media platform Instagram, Zuckerberg wrote: "20 years ago, I launched a thing. Along the way, lots of amazing people joined, and we built some more awesome things. We're still at it, and the best is yet to come." The video The 25-second video, technically called a reel, featured the Meta CEO from his younger days, back when Facebook was first launched on February 4, 2004. Also read | Who is Satoshi Nakamoto? 'War' begins in the UK, court to decide on Bitcoin founder’s identity Zuckerberg's video is a montage of photos and videos from the 20-year journey. It starts with a message "I have a feeling this is going to go by really fast," before moving on to feature the pictures and clips to Aerosmith's "Dream On." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mark Zuckerberg (@zuck) × The video, among others, features Edwardo Saverin, who helped found Facebook. Zuckerberg and Saverin had a major falling out and engaged in a major legal battle, which saw the ex-friends filing lawsuits against one another. Also featured are Zuckerberg's wife, Priscilla Chan, and former Meta Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg, who stepped down in 2022. Also read | Musk’s ‘illegal drug use’, silence of board and money ties with directors: What WSJ’s new report claims He also posted several other posts to his account @zuck. One featured then-and-now pictures of him sitting at a desk working on computers. The pictures, which are 20 years apart, showcased widely different computer setups. One similarity the two shots shared is a variety of caffeine-laced drinks. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mark Zuckerberg (@zuck) × Facebook: a short history The platform was launched in 2004 and is credited with ushering in a new era of communication. It was Zuckerberg and co-founders Dustin Moskovitz and Eduardo Saverin. Within months of its launch, Facebook hit one million active users. The following year, Facebook introduced the feature to add photos and also came up with news feed. In 2009, it introduced the well-known 'like' button. By the end of the decade, the platform clocked 500 million active users. However, with the emergence of other popular platforms like TikTok, and Instagram, it has now got left behind, with mostly the older generation using it. In February 2022, as per Business Standard, Facebook's total number of users declined to 1.9 billion for the first time.

‘The best is yet to come’: Mark Zuckerberg celebrates 20 years of Facebook

<p>A big showdown is underway in the United Kingdom over who's the real creator of Bitcoin. For years, an Aussie computer scientist named Craig Wright has claimed that he's the mysterious Satoshi Nakamoto, the pseudonym used by the author of the 2008 white paper behind Bitcoin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, he has failed to back his claims and people in the crypto world are not buying it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, a group called the Crypto Open Patent Alliance (Copa), with support from Jack Dorsey's company Block and Coinbase, is taking Wright to court. They want the judge to say that Wright is not Nakamoto officially.</p>

<h2><strong>Why was a lawsuit needed?</strong></h2>

<p>Over the years, Wright's claims and the widespread scepticism around them have led to several legal clashes.</p>

<p>With this case, Copa hopes to stop Wright from challenging others who are working to develop Bitcoin-related projects. The trial is expected to last about a month and will be held at the high court in England and Wales.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/bitcoin-plummets-to-40000-hits-lowest-point-since-etf-debut-682753">Bitcoin plummets to $40,000, hits lowest point since ETF debut</a></strong></p>

<p>The Guardian quotes a Copa spokesperson as saying that the case would "conclusively show that Dr Wright is not Satoshi Nakamoto and will not be able to continue to threaten developers."</p>

<p>Wright, who's been saying he's Nakamoto for years, last month offered to settle the case, but Copa rejected his offer.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Bitcoin miners ignore climate action calls</strong></p>

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<p>It said that the offer came with loopholes "that would allow him to sue people all over again".</p>

<p>Now, the trial is a big deal for anyone involved in Bitcoin projects and the wider crypto community.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Nakamoto?</strong></h2>

<p>Bitcoin's creator, mythically known as Nakamoto, published a paper in 2008 that became the basis for the cryptocurrency. Nakamoto interacted with the first Bitcoin users but vanished in 2011. Since then, people have been guessing who Nakamoto is. Wright came forward in 2016, but he hasn't been able to prove it because he hasn't shown the private keys needed to access the original bitcoins Nakamoto mined.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lufthansa-faces-turbulence-airlines-groundstaff-to-stage-one-day-strike-over-pay-dispute-687189">Lufthansa faces turbulence: Airlines ground staff to stage one-day strike over pay dispute</a></strong></p>

<p>The trial will dig into evidence from both sides, including Copa's claim that some of Wright's proof is fake.</p>

<p>This isn't Wright's first legal rodeo. In 2022, he won a case against a blogger who said his Nakamoto claim was fake, but he only got a tiny amount of £1 in damages. The current trial will tackle various cases related to the identity dispute, with Wright facing questioning for six days starting Tuesday. The verdict could affect the rules and procedures for how the Bitcoin system works, especially since Wright supports a version called Bitcoin Satoshi Vision (BSV).</p>

<p>Labelling the trial "a war," a spokesperson for Wright said: "Think of it as a modern-day tech battle, akin to that between Blu-ray and HD DVD or, for even older readers, Betamax versus VHS."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A big showdown is underway in the United Kingdom over who's the real creator of Bitcoin. For years, an Aussie computer scientist named Craig Wright has claimed that he's the mysterious Satoshi Nakamoto, the pseudonym used by the author of the 2008 white paper behind Bitcoin.

A big showdown is underway in the United Kingdom over who's the real creator of Bitcoin. For years, an Aussie computer scientist named Craig Wright has claimed that he's the mysterious Satoshi Nakamoto, the pseudonym used by the author of the 2008 white paper behind Bitcoin. However, he has failed to back his claims and people in the crypto world are not buying it. Now, a group called the Crypto Open Patent Alliance (Copa), with support from Jack Dorsey's company Block and Coinbase, is taking Wright to court. They want the judge to say that Wright is not Nakamoto officially. Why was a lawsuit needed? Over the years, Wright's claims and the widespread scepticism around them have led to several legal clashes. With this case, Copa hopes to stop Wright from challenging others who are working to develop Bitcoin-related projects. The trial is expected to last about a month and will be held at the high court in England and Wales. Also read | Bitcoin plummets to $40,000, hits lowest point since ETF debut The Guardian quotes a Copa spokesperson as saying that the case would "conclusively show that Dr Wright is not Satoshi Nakamoto and will not be able to continue to threaten developers." Wright, who's been saying he's Nakamoto for years, last month offered to settle the case, but Copa rejected his offer. Watch | Bitcoin miners ignore climate action calls × It said that the offer came with loopholes "that would allow him to sue people all over again". Now, the trial is a big deal for anyone involved in Bitcoin projects and the wider crypto community. Who is Nakamoto? Bitcoin's creator, mythically known as Nakamoto, published a paper in 2008 that became the basis for the cryptocurrency. Nakamoto interacted with the first Bitcoin users but vanished in 2011. Since then, people have been guessing who Nakamoto is. Wright came forward in 2016, but he hasn't been able to prove it because he hasn't shown the private keys needed to access the original bitcoins Nakamoto mined. Also read | Lufthansa faces turbulence: Airlines ground staff to stage one-day strike over pay dispute The trial will dig into evidence from both sides, including Copa's claim that some of Wright's proof is fake. This isn't Wright's first legal rodeo. In 2022, he won a case against a blogger who said his Nakamoto claim was fake, but he only got a tiny amount of £1 in damages. The current trial will tackle various cases related to the identity dispute, with Wright facing questioning for six days starting Tuesday. The verdict could affect the rules and procedures for how the Bitcoin system works, especially since Wright supports a version called Bitcoin Satoshi Vision (BSV). Labelling the trial "a war," a spokesperson for Wright said: "Think of it as a modern-day tech battle, akin to that between Blu-ray and HD DVD or, for even older readers, Betamax versus VHS." (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Satoshi Nakamoto? 'War' begins in the UK court to decide on Bitcoin founder’s identity

<p>The planned departure of the Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth, which was set to lead the largest NATO exercise since the Cold War, has been abruptly cancelled after an issue with a propeller shaft was detected during final checks.</p>

<p>HMS Queen Elizabeth will now be replaced by HMS Prince of Wales in the NATO exercises involving over 40 vessels.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>A routine problem?</strong></h2>

<p>This setback follows a similar incident 18 months ago when the sister ship, HMS Prince of Wales, experienced a breakdown off the Isle of Wight due to a malfunction with a coupling on its starboard propeller.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scotland-set-to-increase-minimum-alcohol-price-by-30-to-curb-health-crisis-687169">Scotland set to increase minimum alcohol price by 30% to curb health crisis</a></strong></p>

<p>On X, formerly Twitter, the Royal Navy posted: "Routine pre-sailing checks yesterday identified an issue with a coupling on HMS Queen Elizabeth starboard propeller shaft. As such, the ship will not sail on Sunday."</p>

<p>"HMS Prince of Wales will take her place on NATO duties and will set sail for exercise Steadfast Defender as soon as possible."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Routine pre-sailing checks yesterday identified an issue with a coupling on <a href="https://twitter.com/HMSQNLZ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HMSQNLZ</a> starboard propeller shaft. As such, the ship will not sail on Sunday.<a href="https://twitter.com/HMSPWLS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HMSPWLS</a> will take her place on NATO duties and will set sail for Exercise Steadfast Defender as soon as possible. <a href="https://t.co/ImAeTU80vi">pic.twitter.com/ImAeTU80vi</a></p>
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<p>As per the Independent, it is primed to lead a carrier strike involving eight ships, with four British vessels, including the frigate HMS Somerset and two Tide-class tankers from the Royal Fleet Auxiliary. It would be supported by vessels from the US, Spain, and Denmark.</p>

<p>Also joining the strike are F-35B Lightning stealth fighters from the 617 "Dambusters" Squadron at RAF Marham, along with submarine hunting and airborne early warning Merlin Mk2 helicopters from RNAS Culdrose. Battlefield Wildcat helicopters of 847 Naval Air Squadron from RNAS Yeovilton are also part of the line-up.</p>

<p>The cancellation comes amid warnings that Britain is ill-prepared for an all-out war due to stockpile shortages and an armed forces recruitment crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lufthansa-faces-turbulence-airlines-groundstaff-to-stage-one-day-strike-over-pay-dispute-687189">Lufthansa faces turbulence: Airlines groundstaff to stage one-day strike over pay dispute</a></strong></p>

<p>As per the House of Commons defense committee, the military is "consistently overstretched", exacerbated by recruitment and retention challenges that have seen more people leaving than joining the armed forces, reports the Independent.</p>

<p>The cross-party group of MPs also said that the nation's military has been "hollowed out", leaving the UK unprepared for war amid increasing global instability.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The planned departure of the Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth, which was set to lead the largest NATO exercise since the Cold War, has been abruptly cancelled after an issue with a propeller shaft was detected during final checks.

The planned departure of the Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth, which was set to lead the largest NATO exercise since the Cold War, has been abruptly cancelled after an issue with a propeller shaft was detected during final checks. HMS Queen Elizabeth will now be replaced by HMS Prince of Wales in the NATO exercises involving over 40 vessels. A routine problem? This setback follows a similar incident 18 months ago when the sister ship, HMS Prince of Wales, experienced a breakdown off the Isle of Wight due to a malfunction with a coupling on its starboard propeller. Also read | Scotland set to increase minimum alcohol price by 30% to curb health crisis On X, formerly Twitter, the Royal Navy posted: "Routine pre-sailing checks yesterday identified an issue with a coupling on HMS Queen Elizabeth starboard propeller shaft. As such, the ship will not sail on Sunday." "HMS Prince of Wales will take her place on NATO duties and will set sail for exercise Steadfast Defender as soon as possible." Routine pre-sailing checks yesterday identified an issue with a coupling on @HMSQNLZ starboard propeller shaft. As such, the ship will not sail on Sunday.@HMSPWLS will take her place on NATO duties and will set sail for Exercise Steadfast Defender as soon as possible. pic.twitter.com/ImAeTU80vi — Royal Navy (@RoyalNavy) February 3, 2024 × As per the Independent, it is primed to lead a carrier strike involving eight ships, with four British vessels, including the frigate HMS Somerset and two Tide-class tankers from the Royal Fleet Auxiliary. It would be supported by vessels from the US, Spain, and Denmark. Also joining the strike are F-35B Lightning stealth fighters from the 617 "Dambusters" Squadron at RAF Marham, along with submarine hunting and airborne early warning Merlin Mk2 helicopters from RNAS Culdrose. Battlefield Wildcat helicopters of 847 Naval Air Squadron from RNAS Yeovilton are also part of the line-up. The cancellation comes amid warnings that Britain is ill-prepared for an all-out war due to stockpile shortages and an armed forces recruitment crisis. Also read | Lufthansa faces turbulence: Airlines groundstaff to stage one-day strike over pay dispute As per the House of Commons defense committee, the military is "consistently overstretched", exacerbated by recruitment and retention challenges that have seen more people leaving than joining the armed forces, reports the Independent. The cross-party group of MPs also said that the nation's military has been "hollowed out", leaving the UK unprepared for war amid increasing global instability. (With inputs from agencies)

Royal Navy’s HMS Queen Elizabeth pulls out of NATO exercise after propeller shaft snag

<p>Scotland is reportedly gearing up for a notable 30 per cent hike in the lowest price of alcoholic beverages, a move aimed at tackling alcohol-related health problems.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ministers in Edinburgh, as per the Guardian, are likely to confirm the increase from 50p to 65p per unit starting in May, a step taken six years after Scotland led the UK in introducing this pricing strategy.</p>

<p><strong>Also&nbsp;read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pablo-escobars-cocaine-hippos-attacking-people-in-colombia-687134">Pablo Escobar's 'cocaine hippos' attacking people in Colombia</a></strong></p>

<p>The proposed 65p minimum unit price is meant to keep up with inflation and maintain control over the sale of inexpensive alcohol. Advocates for public health welcome this, emphasising its potential to improve overall well-being. Under the revised pricing, a standard bottle of whisky in Scotland is expected to cost £18.20 ($22.92), vodka £16.90 ($21.28), and a four-pack of basic lager £4.58 ($5.77).</p>

<h2><strong>Scotland and deaths because of alcohol</strong></h2>

<p>Last year, Public Health Scotland reported a positive impact, with a 13.5 per cent drop in deaths solely linked to alcohol minimum pricing.</p>

<p>However, the country has seen a worrying 25 per cent rise in alcohol-related deaths in the last three years, coupled with a 40 per cent decline in people seeking alcohol treatment services over a decade.</p>

<h2><strong>For and against&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Willie Rennie, the former leader of Scottish Liberal Democrats and now the party's economy spokesperson, as per the report expressed his happiness over the move.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-japan-simulate-military-exercise-to-counter-chinese-threat-against-taiwan-687137">US-Japan simulate military exercise to counter Chinese threat against Taiwan</a></strong></p>

<p>A long-time champion of the measure, Rennie said, "More than 20 people a week in Scotland die due to alcohol misuse, so we need to take steps to stop alcohol wrecking lives and communities."</p>

<p>"That's before you even get to the pressure that it imposes on our health and justice systems," he said.</p>

<p>However, the Wine and Spirit Trade Association is reportedly planning to argue for the elimination of minimum pricing.</p>

<p>"Targeted measures have significantly greater impact without penalising the vast majority who do drink responsibly," said the trade association's consumer affairs director David Richardson.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Scottish Labour supports the policy but suggested an additional alcohol levy on retailers. This levy, they propose, would tax the extra profits retailers make due to minimum pricing, directing the funds towards the NHS and efforts to combat addiction.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Scotland is reportedly gearing up for a notable 30 per cent hike in the lowest price of alcoholic beverages, a move aimed at tackling alcohol-related health problems.

Scotland is reportedly gearing up for a notable 30 per cent hike in the lowest price of alcoholic beverages, a move aimed at tackling alcohol-related health problems. Ministers in Edinburgh, as per the Guardian, are likely to confirm the increase from 50p to 65p per unit starting in May, a step taken six years after Scotland led the UK in introducing this pricing strategy. Also read | Pablo Escobar's 'cocaine hippos' attacking people in Colombia The proposed 65p minimum unit price is meant to keep up with inflation and maintain control over the sale of inexpensive alcohol. Advocates for public health welcome this, emphasising its potential to improve overall well-being. Under the revised pricing, a standard bottle of whisky in Scotland is expected to cost £18.20 ($22.92), vodka £16.90 ($21.28), and a four-pack of basic lager £4.58 ($5.77). Scotland and deaths because of alcohol Last year, Public Health Scotland reported a positive impact, with a 13.5 per cent drop in deaths solely linked to alcohol minimum pricing. However, the country has seen a worrying 25 per cent rise in alcohol-related deaths in the last three years, coupled with a 40 per cent decline in people seeking alcohol treatment services over a decade. For and against Willie Rennie, the former leader of Scottish Liberal Democrats and now the party's economy spokesperson, as per the report expressed his happiness over the move. Also read | US-Japan simulate military exercise to counter Chinese threat against Taiwan A long-time champion of the measure, Rennie said, "More than 20 people a week in Scotland die due to alcohol misuse, so we need to take steps to stop alcohol wrecking lives and communities." "That's before you even get to the pressure that it imposes on our health and justice systems," he said. However, the Wine and Spirit Trade Association is reportedly planning to argue for the elimination of minimum pricing. "Targeted measures have significantly greater impact without penalising the vast majority who do drink responsibly," said the trade association's consumer affairs director David Richardson. Meanwhile, Scottish Labour supports the policy but suggested an additional alcohol levy on retailers. This levy, they propose, would tax the extra profits retailers make due to minimum pricing, directing the funds towards the NHS and efforts to combat addiction. (With inputs from agencies)

Scotland set to increase minimum alcohol price by 30% to curb health crisis

<p>The United States has announced a steep hike in the fee for various categories of non-immigrant visas, including the H-1B, L-1 and EB-5. These visas, which are most popular among Indians, will affect thousands who apply every year.</p>

<p>As per a PTI news agency report, the hike will come into force starting April 1st. Here's all you need to know about the increased fee.</p>

<h2><strong>How much of a hike is there?</strong></h2>

<p>Starting April 1st, the application fee for an H-1B visa or form I-129 will be increased from the current USD 460 to USD 780 — a 69.5 per cent hike. Furthermore, the H-1B registration will be increased from USD 10 to USD 215, starting next year.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-h-1b-visa-renewal-online-drive-begins-heres-how-to-apply-685254">US H-1B visa renewal drive begins online. Here's how to apply</a></strong></p>

<p>The fee for L-1 visas has been hiked from the current USD 460 to USD 1,385 — a 201 per cent hike. This non-immigrant visa category is designed for intra-company transferees and allows multinational companies to transfer certain employees from their foreign offices to work in the US temporarily.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, investor visas or EB-5 visas will soon cost USD 11,160, instead of the current USD 3,675 — a 203 per cent increase.</p>

<h2><strong>Why have the visa fees been hiked?</strong></h2>

<p>The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) argues that the final rule changes will bring several benefits, including reduced administrative burdens and fee processing errors for the government. It is expected to enhance efficiency in the adjudicative process and enable a better assessment of the cost of providing services, allowing for better-aligned fees in future regulations.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-approves-sale-of-mq-9b-remotely-piloted-aircraft-to-india-686080">US approves sale of 31 MQ-9B remotely piloted aircraft to India</a></strong></p>

<p>In its federal notification, the DHS said fee adjustments, as well as changes to the forms and fee structures used by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), will result in net costs, benefits, and transfer payments.</p>

<p>The estimated annualised net costs to the public over the 10 years (FY 2024 through FY 2033) are projected to be USD 157,005,952, discounted at three and seven per cent. The total net costs over a decade are estimated at USD 1,339,292,617 discounted at three per cent and USD 1,102,744,106 discounted at seven per cent.</p>

<h2><strong>What benefits can H-1B and other visa applicants expect?</strong></h2>

<p>Applicants and petitioners seeking immigration benefits will also reportedly experience benefits, including reduced fee processing errors, increased efficiency in the adjudicative process, simplification of the fee payment process for some forms, elimination of the USD 30 returned check fee, and, for many applicants, limited fee increases and additional fee exemptions to reduce financial burdens. The federal notification also notes minor reductions in visa application fees in several categories.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United States has announced a steep hike in the fee for various categories of non-immigrant visas, including the H-1B, L-1 and EB-5. These visas, which are most popular among Indians, will affect thousands who apply every year.

The United States has announced a steep hike in the fee for various categories of non-immigrant visas, including the H-1B, L-1 and EB-5. These visas, which are most popular among Indians, will affect thousands who apply every year. As per a PTI news agency report, the hike will come into force starting April 1st. Here's all you need to know about the increased fee. How much of a hike is there? Starting April 1st, the application fee for an H-1B visa or form I-129 will be increased from the current USD 460 to USD 780 — a 69.5 per cent hike. Furthermore, the H-1B registration will be increased from USD 10 to USD 215, starting next year. Also read | US H-1B visa renewal drive begins online. Here's how to apply The fee for L-1 visas has been hiked from the current USD 460 to USD 1,385 — a 201 per cent hike. This non-immigrant visa category is designed for intra-company transferees and allows multinational companies to transfer certain employees from their foreign offices to work in the US temporarily. Additionally, investor visas or EB-5 visas will soon cost USD 11,160, instead of the current USD 3,675 — a 203 per cent increase. Why have the visa fees been hiked? The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) argues that the final rule changes will bring several benefits, including reduced administrative burdens and fee processing errors for the government. It is expected to enhance efficiency in the adjudicative process and enable a better assessment of the cost of providing services, allowing for better-aligned fees in future regulations. Also read | US approves sale of 31 MQ-9B remotely piloted aircraft to India In its federal notification, the DHS said fee adjustments, as well as changes to the forms and fee structures used by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), will result in net costs, benefits, and transfer payments. The estimated annualised net costs to the public over the 10 years (FY 2024 through FY 2033) are projected to be USD 157,005,952, discounted at three and seven per cent. The total net costs over a decade are estimated at USD 1,339,292,617 discounted at three per cent and USD 1,102,744,106 discounted at seven per cent. What benefits can H-1B and other visa applicants expect? Applicants and petitioners seeking immigration benefits will also reportedly experience benefits, including reduced fee processing errors, increased efficiency in the adjudicative process, simplification of the fee payment process for some forms, elimination of the USD 30 returned check fee, and, for many applicants, limited fee increases and additional fee exemptions to reduce financial burdens. The federal notification also notes minor reductions in visa application fees in several categories. (With inputs from agencies)

US announces massive hike in H-1B and other visa fees. Here's all you need to know

<p>In a miraculous recovery for the books, a puppy's jaw regrew spontaneously after it was removed due to cancer. This marks the first of its kind incident for dogs of any age or breed. However, as per the Cornell website, this phenomenon has been reported in children.</p>

<h2><strong>A miracle</strong></h2>

<p>Tyson, a three-month-old puppy of French bulldog breed, was brought to Cornell's Dentistry and Oral Surgery Service for a cleft palate surgery when the primary veterinarian noticed a cancerous tumour on the dog's jaw.</p>

<p>In a statement, the dentistry and oral surgery resident Alexandra Wright, D.V.M., who led Tyson's care team, detailed that there was an oral papillary squamous cell carcinoma, which he said is a "malignant cancer in dogs."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/japans-moon-lander-goes-dormant-once-again-amazing-final-image-of-lunar-surface-see-it-here-686216">Japan's moon lander clicks final image before going dormant once again</a></strong></p>

<p>"Oral squamous cell carcinoma is the second-most common malignant oral tumour in dogs, and this papillary subtype has previously been reported in young dogs," he said.</p>

<p>Wright, along with co-authors Dr&nbsp;Nadine Fiani, associate clinical professor and section chief, and Dr Santiago Peralta, associate professor in the Dentistry and Oral Surgery Service, has published a report on this case in Frontiers in Veterinary Science.</p>

<p>Most of the puppy's lower left mandible had to be removed to remove the tumour. This, as per the veterinarians, meant Tyson would live a life without a fully functioning lower jaw.</p>

<p>The puppy's owners were sceptical about putting him through the surgery but chose to "give him a chance and continue with surgery."</p>

<p>"We had no idea his jaw would grow back!" they said.</p>

<h2><strong>How the miracle happened</strong></h2>

<p>According to Cornell College of Veterinary Science's website, the miraculous recovery was likely due to the Periosteum preserved during the surgery. Furthermore, the detection of cancer at an early age also helped the case.</p>

<p>The periosteum contains blood vessels and nerves that support the bone and are also crucial to the growth of the original mandibles.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/by-2050-the-world-will-see-a-whopping-77-increase-in-cancer-cases-predicts-who-report-686307">By 2050, the world will see a whopping 77% increase in cancer cases, predicts WHO report</a></strong></p>

<p>Wright speculates that "this was likely imperative to the regeneration of new bone."</p>

<p>However, the precise reason remains a mystery. Tyson's new mandible as per the report is "nearly as functional as the original, though it is technically considered abnormal because it no longer has certain features. For instance, there is no mandibular canal, where major blood vessels and nerves typically reside, and there are no teeth."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a miraculous recovery for the books, a puppy's jaw regrew spontaneously after it was removed due to cancer. This marks the first of its kind incident for dogs of any age or breed.

In a miraculous recovery for the books, a puppy's jaw regrew spontaneously after it was removed due to cancer. This marks the first of its kind incident for dogs of any age or breed. However, as per the Cornell website, this phenomenon has been reported in children. A miracle Tyson, a three-month-old puppy of French bulldog breed, was brought to Cornell's Dentistry and Oral Surgery Service for a cleft palate surgery when the primary veterinarian noticed a cancerous tumour on the dog's jaw. In a statement, the dentistry and oral surgery resident Alexandra Wright, D.V.M., who led Tyson's care team, detailed that there was an oral papillary squamous cell carcinoma, which he said is a "malignant cancer in dogs." Also read | Japan's moon lander clicks final image before going dormant once again "Oral squamous cell carcinoma is the second-most common malignant oral tumour in dogs, and this papillary subtype has previously been reported in young dogs," he said. Wright, along with co-authors Dr Nadine Fiani, associate clinical professor and section chief, and Dr Santiago Peralta, associate professor in the Dentistry and Oral Surgery Service, has published a report on this case in Frontiers in Veterinary Science. Most of the puppy's lower left mandible had to be removed to remove the tumour. This, as per the veterinarians, meant Tyson would live a life without a fully functioning lower jaw. The puppy's owners were sceptical about putting him through the surgery but chose to "give him a chance and continue with surgery." "We had no idea his jaw would grow back!" they said. How the miracle happened According to Cornell College of Veterinary Science's website, the miraculous recovery was likely due to the Periosteum preserved during the surgery. Furthermore, the detection of cancer at an early age also helped the case. The periosteum contains blood vessels and nerves that support the bone and are also crucial to the growth of the original mandibles. Also read | By 2050, the world will see a whopping 77% increase in cancer cases, predicts WHO report Wright speculates that "this was likely imperative to the regeneration of new bone." However, the precise reason remains a mystery. Tyson's new mandible as per the report is "nearly as functional as the original, though it is technically considered abnormal because it no longer has certain features. For instance, there is no mandibular canal, where major blood vessels and nerves typically reside, and there are no teeth." (With inputs from agencies)

Little puppy makes miraculous recovery, beats cancer and spontaneously regrows jaw

<p>By 2050, the global community as per World Health Organization (WHO) estimates will face a whopping 77 per cent increase in cancer cases.</p>

<p>A report by the WHO's cancer agency, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), predicts that in a little more than two decades, we will see more than 35 million new cancer cases. This is a 77 per cent increase from the estimated 20 million cases recorded in 2022.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/japans-moon-lander-goes-dormant-once-again-amazing-final-image-of-lunar-surface-see-it-here-686216">Japan's moon lander clicks final image before going dormant once again</a></strong></p>

<p>However, as per&nbsp;Dr Freddie Bray, Head of the Cancer Surveillance Branch at IARC, the impact of the increase "will not be felt evenly across countries."</p>

<h2><strong>Report findings</strong></h2>

<p>In the report released ahead of World Cancer Day, which is observed on February 4th, the IARC predicted a massive increase in the global cancer burden.</p>

<p>"The rapidly growing global cancer burden reflects both population ageing and growth, as well as changes to people’s exposure to risk factors, several of which are associated with socioeconomic development," said the WHO in its press release.</p>

<p>It identified tobacco, alcohol, and obesity as the key factors driving the increasing incidence of cancer. Air Pollution was mentioned as a key driver of environmental risk factors.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Cancer experts unveil groundbreaking discovery, eliminates need for invasive surgeries</strong></p>

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<p>Furthermore, it predicts that high HDI (Human Development Index) countries will experience the greatest absolute increase in incidence of cancer cases, with an additional 4.8 million new cases predicted in 2050 compared with 2022 estimates.</p>

<p>In a statement, the Head of the Cancer Surveillance Branch at IARC, said: "The impact of this increase will not be felt evenly across countries of different HDI levels. Those who have the fewest resources to manage their cancer burdens will bear the brunt of the global cancer burden."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/massive-clue-found-solving-why-80-pc-of-autoimmune-patients-are-women-686120">Massive clue found solving why 80 pc of autoimmune patients are women</a></strong></p>

<p>As per WHO, global estimates reveal "striking inequalities" in human development.</p>

<p>Dr Isabelle Soerjomataram, Deputy Head of the Cancer Surveillance Branch at IARC explains,&nbsp;"Women in lower HDI countries are 50 &nbsp;per cent less likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer than women in high HDI countries, yet they are at a much higher risk of dying of the disease due to late diagnosis and inadequate access to quality treatment."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


By 2050, the global community as per World Health Organization (WHO) estimates will face a whopping 77 per cent increase in cancer cases. A report by the WHO's cancer agency, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), predicts that in a little more than two decades, we will see more than 35 million new cancer cases.

By 2050, the global community as per World Health Organization (WHO) estimates will face a whopping 77 per cent increase in cancer cases. A report by the WHO's cancer agency, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), predicts that in a little more than two decades, we will see more than 35 million new cancer cases. This is a 77 per cent increase from the estimated 20 million cases recorded in 2022. Also read | Japan's moon lander clicks final image before going dormant once again However, as per Dr Freddie Bray, Head of the Cancer Surveillance Branch at IARC, the impact of the increase "will not be felt evenly across countries." Report findings In the report released ahead of World Cancer Day, which is observed on February 4th, the IARC predicted a massive increase in the global cancer burden. "The rapidly growing global cancer burden reflects both population ageing and growth, as well as changes to people’s exposure to risk factors, several of which are associated with socioeconomic development," said the WHO in its press release. It identified tobacco, alcohol, and obesity as the key factors driving the increasing incidence of cancer. Air Pollution was mentioned as a key driver of environmental risk factors. Watch | Cancer experts unveil groundbreaking discovery, eliminates need for invasive surgeries × Furthermore, it predicts that high HDI (Human Development Index) countries will experience the greatest absolute increase in incidence of cancer cases, with an additional 4.8 million new cases predicted in 2050 compared with 2022 estimates. In a statement, the Head of the Cancer Surveillance Branch at IARC, said: "The impact of this increase will not be felt evenly across countries of different HDI levels. Those who have the fewest resources to manage their cancer burdens will bear the brunt of the global cancer burden." Also read | Massive clue found solving why 80 pc of autoimmune patients are women As per WHO, global estimates reveal "striking inequalities" in human development. Dr Isabelle Soerjomataram, Deputy Head of the Cancer Surveillance Branch at IARC explains, "Women in lower HDI countries are 50 per cent less likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer than women in high HDI countries, yet they are at a much higher risk of dying of the disease due to late diagnosis and inadequate access to quality treatment." (With inputs from agencies)

By 2050, the world will see a whopping 77% increase in cancer cases, predicts WHO report

<p>A federal judge on Wednesday (Jan 31st) dismissed Disney's lawsuit against Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. The lawsuit claimed that the Republican leader had illegally retaliated against the entertainment giant for criticising his "anti-woke" agenda and that he had allegedly used the state to punish the company.</p>

<h2><strong>The ruling</strong></h2>

<p>Reuters reports that in his ruling, US District Judge Allen Winsor said that Disney lacked standing to sue the governor or the secretary of commerce.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Tallahassee, Florida, Winsor also knocked down Disney's free-speech claims. He said that while the US's First Amendment prohibits government officials from retaliating against protected speech, a plaintiff — in this case, Disney — cannot bring a free speech challenge to an otherwise constitutional law, merely based on the subjective motivations of the lawmakers who passed it.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-one-should-go-through-zuckerberg-issues-apology-over-harm-caused-to-children-due-to-social-media-685688">Meta's Zuckerberg faces accusation of having 'blood on his hands', apologises to families</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Disney to Challenge Ruling</strong></h2>

<p>A spokesperson for Disney, as per Reuters, said that it was "an important case with serious implications for the rule of law, and it will not end here."</p>

<p>"If left unchallenged, this would set a dangerous precedent and give licence to states to weaponise their official powers to punish the expression of political viewpoints they disagree with. We are determined to press forward with our case," said the company's spokesperson.</p>

<h2><strong>DeSantis Vs Disney</strong></h2>

<p>DeSantis and Disney have been at loggerheads since 2022 when a spokesperson for the entertainment giant spoke out against a Republican governor-backed education bill concerning LGBTQ youth.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-says-significant-potential-in-us-india-drone-deal-685701">White House says 'significant potential' in US-India drone deal</a></strong></p>

<p>Following this, DeSantis reportedly pushed the Republican-controlled legislature to revoke Disney's special self-governance arrangement, which it had enjoyed since 1967. It had allowed the city-sized theme park to run its own zoning and infrastructure projects.</p>

<p>In April 2023, Disney sued DeSantis and members of a state board, characterising their actions as a "targeted campaign of government retaliation" that violated the company's right to free speech. The defendants had urged for the case's dismissal arguing that the company cannot sue over constitutionally enacted laws.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A federal judge on Wednesday (Jan 31st) dismissed Disney's lawsuit against Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. The lawsuit claimed that the Republican leader had illegally retaliated against the entertainment giant for criticising his "anti-woke" agenda and that he had allegedly used the state to punish the company.

A federal judge on Wednesday (Jan 31st) dismissed Disney's lawsuit against Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. The lawsuit claimed that the Republican leader had illegally retaliated against the entertainment giant for criticising his "anti-woke" agenda and that he had allegedly used the state to punish the company. The ruling Reuters reports that in his ruling, US District Judge Allen Winsor said that Disney lacked standing to sue the governor or the secretary of commerce. In Tallahassee, Florida, Winsor also knocked down Disney's free-speech claims. He said that while the US's First Amendment prohibits government officials from retaliating against protected speech, a plaintiff — in this case, Disney — cannot bring a free speech challenge to an otherwise constitutional law, merely based on the subjective motivations of the lawmakers who passed it. Also read | Meta's Zuckerberg faces accusation of having 'blood on his hands', apologises to families Disney to Challenge Ruling A spokesperson for Disney, as per Reuters, said that it was "an important case with serious implications for the rule of law, and it will not end here." "If left unchallenged, this would set a dangerous precedent and give licence to states to weaponise their official powers to punish the expression of political viewpoints they disagree with. We are determined to press forward with our case," said the company's spokesperson. DeSantis Vs Disney DeSantis and Disney have been at loggerheads since 2022 when a spokesperson for the entertainment giant spoke out against a Republican governor-backed education bill concerning LGBTQ youth. Also read | White House says 'significant potential' in US-India drone deal Following this, DeSantis reportedly pushed the Republican-controlled legislature to revoke Disney's special self-governance arrangement, which it had enjoyed since 1967. It had allowed the city-sized theme park to run its own zoning and infrastructure projects. In April 2023, Disney sued DeSantis and members of a state board, characterising their actions as a "targeted campaign of government retaliation" that violated the company's right to free speech. The defendants had urged for the case's dismissal arguing that the company cannot sue over constitutionally enacted laws. (With inputs from agencies)

US Federal judge dismisses Disney's case accusing Florida Governor DeSantis of retaliation

<p>Republican presidential nomination seeker Nikki Haley has said the Lone Star state of Texas has the right to secede from the US if its citizens decide to do so. Haley's controversial remarks came during an appearance on the&nbsp;“Breakfast Club” radio show where she argued that&nbsp;secession is a “right” of the states.</p>

<p>Although Haley's statement contradicts centuries of established history and precedent in the US&nbsp;according to experts, she has stuck with the call given by staunch Conservatives of the state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I think states have the right to make the decisions that their people want to make. If Texas decides they want to do that. They can do that,” Haley told&nbsp;host Charlamagne Tha God.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“If that whole state says, ‘We don’t want to be part of America anymore’.&nbsp;I mean, that’s their decision to make,” she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The former South Carolina governor said the government did not need to tell people how to live their lives, instead, they should be given freedom to live.&nbsp;However, the 52-year-old White House hopeful went on to add Texas seceding from the US won't happen.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I think, you know, states are going to make decisions.&nbsp;But let’s talk about what’s reality. Texas isn’t going to secede. That’s not something that they’re going to do.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-elections-2024-nikki-haley-targeted-in-swatting-attacks-685231"><strong>Watch | US Elections 2024: Nikki Haley targeted in swatting attacks</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What does the US Constitution say?</strong></h2>

<p>While Haley believes that the Constitution allows for the secession of states from the federal union, the Texas v. White case in the immediate wake of the Civil War in 1869 suggests otherwise. At the time, the US Supreme Court ruled that the United States was an "indestructible union".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Constitution, in all its provisions, looks to an indestructible Union composed of indestructible states.&nbsp;When Texas became one of the United States, she entered into an indissoluble relation," the court noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-trumps-refusal-republican-national-committee-pulls-resolution-declaring-him-presumptive-2024-nominee-683800"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;After Trump's refusal, Republican National Committee pulls resolution declaring him 'Presumptive 2024 Nominee'</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Haley's presidential campaign</strong></h2>

<p>While the likes of Ron DeSantis and Vivek Ramaswamy have already dropped out of the race, Haley, a former UN ambassador is yet to throw in&nbsp;the towel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After losing the Iowa and New Hampshire primaries rather dismally, Haley has switched up her&nbsp;campaign messaging by targeting the demography that usually votes for Trump.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She also targeted both Trump and Biden during one of her campaign pit stops, saying they both were&nbsp;too old for the job.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Do we really want to go into an election with two fellas that are going to be president in their eighties?” Haley told a crowd in Keene, New Hampshire.</p>

<p>Previously,&nbsp;Haley's spokesperson Olivia Perez-Cubas referred to both leader as "Grumpy Old Men" who offered no comic relief but just chaos, confusion and a "bad sense of deja vu to the American people".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>


Republican presidential nomination seeker Nikki Haley has said the Lone Star state of Texas has the right to secede from the US if its citizens decide to do so. Haley's controversial remarks came during an appearance on the “Breakfast Club” radio show where she argued that secession is a “right” of the states.

Republican presidential nomination seeker Nikki Haley has said the Lone Star state of Texas has the right to secede from the US if its citizens decide to do so. Haley's controversial remarks came during an appearance on the “Breakfast Club” radio show where she argued that secession is a “right” of the states. Although Haley's statement contradicts centuries of established history and precedent in the US according to experts, she has stuck with the call given by staunch Conservatives of the state. “I think states have the right to make the decisions that their people want to make. If Texas decides they want to do that. They can do that,” Haley told host Charlamagne Tha God. “If that whole state says, ‘We don’t want to be part of America anymore’. I mean, that’s their decision to make,” she added. The former South Carolina governor said the government did not need to tell people how to live their lives, instead, they should be given freedom to live. However, the 52-year-old White House hopeful went on to add Texas seceding from the US won't happen. “I think, you know, states are going to make decisions. But let’s talk about what’s reality. Texas isn’t going to secede. That’s not something that they’re going to do.” Watch | US Elections 2024: Nikki Haley targeted in swatting attacks × What does the US Constitution say? While Haley believes that the Constitution allows for the secession of states from the federal union, the Texas v. White case in the immediate wake of the Civil War in 1869 suggests otherwise. At the time, the US Supreme Court ruled that the United States was an "indestructible union". "The Constitution, in all its provisions, looks to an indestructible Union composed of indestructible states. When Texas became one of the United States, she entered into an indissoluble relation," the court noted. Also read | After Trump's refusal, Republican National Committee pulls resolution declaring him 'Presumptive 2024 Nominee' Haley's presidential campaign While the likes of Ron DeSantis and Vivek Ramaswamy have already dropped out of the race, Haley, a former UN ambassador is yet to throw in the towel. After losing the Iowa and New Hampshire primaries rather dismally, Haley has switched up her campaign messaging by targeting the demography that usually votes for Trump. She also targeted both Trump and Biden during one of her campaign pit stops, saying they both were too old for the job. “Do we really want to go into an election with two fellas that are going to be president in their eighties?” Haley told a crowd in Keene, New Hampshire. Previously, Haley's spokesperson Olivia Perez-Cubas referred to both leader as "Grumpy Old Men" who offered no comic relief but just chaos, confusion and a "bad sense of deja vu to the American people". (With inputs from agencies)

'They can do that': Nikki Haley bats for Texas to secede from the US

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