Scientists have discovered the brightest object ever in the universe: a hungry black hole that devours the gas equivalent of the Sun, every day.

The scientists at the Australian National University observed the fast-moving, ferocious quasar that has a mass of 17 billion Suns, making it 500 trillion times brighter than our ball of heat and light.&nbsp; 
 
Quasars are celestial objects powered by giant black holes of up to 10 billion times the mass of the Sun. They emit more energy than any other object in the universe.

The newly discovered enormous black hole is chugging everything that falls near its event horizon and growing at a rate that scientists have never witnessed, said the astronomers who made the observation using the&nbsp;European Southern Observatory's (ESO) Very Large Telescope (VLT).&nbsp;

They are predicting that the hungry quasar is consuming the equivalent of 370 Suns a year which comes down to about one a day.&nbsp;

"We have discovered the fastest-growing black hole known to date. It has a mass of 17 billion Suns and eats just over a Sun per day. This makes it the most luminous object in the known Universe," said Christian Wolf, an astronomer at the Australian National University (ANU) and lead author of the study.

"This quasar is the most violent place that we know in the universe," he added.&nbsp;

Interestingly, the quasar had been hiding in plain sight as it was misclassified as a star previously.

Having been spotted in the 1980s, the quasar named&nbsp;J0529-4351 was reclassified following&nbsp;observations in Australia and Chile's Atacama Desert last year.&nbsp;

Scientists said the quasar discovered is so far away from our planet that it took over 12 billion years for us to see it. The current accepted age of our universe is 13.8 billion years. Although, last year,&nbsp;Rajendra Gupta of the University of Ottawa published a report, claiming that the&nbsp;universe may be around 26.7 billion years old.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;How our sun will swallow the earth

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<h2>What are quasars?</h2>

Quasars are supermassive black holes, often situated at the heart of a galaxy, millions to billions of times more massive than our Sun. Quasars are super hungry as they devour any matter in the vicinity by using their immense gravitational pull.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nearest-supermassive-black-hole-awakens-from-dormancy-becomes-a-million-times-brighter-scientists-607935">Also read |&nbsp;Nearest supermassive black hole awakens from dormancy, becomes a million times brighter: Scientists</a>

They also emit tremendous amounts of radiation, including jets of high-energy particles,&nbsp;while a glowing disk of matter spins around them.

Last year, scientists published a research after monitoring over 190 quasars for two decades which stated that time passed only about a fifth as quickly as it does today due to dilation in the early universe.

The scientists compared the brightness of the 190 quasars, dating to about 1.5 billion years after the Big Bang event to that of&nbsp;quasars existing today. In doing so, they found that certain fluctuations&nbsp;that occur in a particular amount of time today did so five times more slowly in the most ancient quasars.

(With inputs from agencies)

Scientists have discovered the brightest object ever in the universe: a hungry black hole that devours the gas equivalent of the Sun, every day. The scientists at the Australian National University observed the fast-moving, ferocious quasar that has a mass of 17 billion Suns, making it 500 trillion times brighter than our ball of heat and light.

Scientists have discovered the brightest object ever in the universe: a hungry black hole that devours the gas equivalent of the Sun, every day. The scientists at the Australian National University observed the fast-moving, ferocious quasar that has a mass of 17 billion Suns, making it 500 trillion times brighter than our ball of heat and light. Quasars are celestial objects powered by giant black holes of up to 10 billion times the mass of the Sun. They emit more energy than any other object in the universe. The newly discovered enormous black hole is chugging everything that falls near its event horizon and growing at a rate that scientists have never witnessed, said the astronomers who made the observation using the European Southern Observatory's (ESO) Very Large Telescope (VLT). They are predicting that the hungry quasar is consuming the equivalent of 370 Suns a year which comes down to about one a day. "We have discovered the fastest-growing black hole known to date. It has a mass of 17 billion Suns and eats just over a Sun per day. This makes it the most luminous object in the known Universe," said Christian Wolf, an astronomer at the Australian National University (ANU) and lead author of the study. "This quasar is the most violent place that we know in the universe," he added. Interestingly, the quasar had been hiding in plain sight as it was misclassified as a star previously. Having been spotted in the 1980s, the quasar named J0529-4351 was reclassified following observations in Australia and Chile's Atacama Desert last year. Scientists said the quasar discovered is so far away from our planet that it took over 12 billion years for us to see it. The current accepted age of our universe is 13.8 billion years. Although, last year, Rajendra Gupta of the University of Ottawa published a report, claiming that the universe may be around 26.7 billion years old. WATCH | How our sun will swallow the earth What are quasars? Quasars are supermassive black holes, often situated at the heart of a galaxy, millions to billions of times more massive than our Sun. Quasars are super hungry as they devour any matter in the vicinity by using their immense gravitational pull. Also read | Nearest supermassive black hole awakens from dormancy, becomes a million times brighter: Scientists They also emit tremendous amounts of radiation, including jets of high-energy particles, while a glowing disk of matter spins around them. Last year, scientists published a research after monitoring over 190 quasars for two decades which stated that time passed only about a fifth as quickly as it does today due to dilation in the early universe. The scientists compared the brightness of the 190 quasars, dating to about 1.5 billion years after the Big Bang event to that of quasars existing today. In doing so, they found that certain fluctuations that occur in a particular amount of time today did so five times more slowly in the most ancient quasars. (With inputs from agencies)

Enormously 'hungry' black hole that eats 370 Suns a year is likely the brightest object in universe

A number of European countries on Monday (Feb 19) summoned Russian diplomats over the rather suspicious death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny last week, whilst also warning of fresh sanctions.&nbsp; &nbsp;

France led the chart by summoning the Russian ambassador to Paris, confirmed foreign minister Stephane Sejourne who is currently on a diplomatic trip to Argentina.&nbsp;

"I have asked for the convocation of the Russian ambassador today," he informed during a press conference, adding that&nbsp;"the regime of Vladimir Putin has once again shown its true nature".&nbsp;

Norway's foreign ministry also released a statement saying it had done the same.&nbsp;

"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has today summoned the Russian ambassador for a talk about the death of Alexei Navalny. In the conversation, Norwegian views will be conveyed about Russian authorities' responsibility for the death and for facilitating a transparent investigation," the ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

Finland, Lithuania, Spain Sweden and the Netherlands are the others to have summoned&nbsp;diplomats from Russian embassies. London had done the same Friday (Feb 16) evening.

Meanwhile, Germany said it was proposing fresh sanctions against Moscow as President Vladimir Putin had once again used his powers to cull freedom in the country.&nbsp;

“We have seen the brutal force with which the Russian president represses his own citizens who take to the streets to demonstrate for freedom or write about it in newspapers,” said&nbsp;German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock.&nbsp;

“We will propose new sanctions in light of the death of Alexei Navalny.”

Notably, Germany under&nbsp;Chancellor&nbsp;Olaf Scholz temporarily took in Navalny in 2020 after he was poisoned with a nerve agent.&nbsp;

According to reports, after EU foreign ministers agreed on a 13th round of sanctions against the Kremlin on Monday, the bloc was studying ways of hitting back at Putin in a 14th round in the coming weeks.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/alexei-navalny-death-navalnys-body-found-with-bruises-as-west-holds-putin-responsible-691608">Watch |&nbsp;Alexei Navalny death: Navalny’s body found with ‘bruises’ as West holds Putin responsible</a>

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<h2>Western bloc blames Putin</h2>

The Western bloc has taken a unanimous stand in blaming the Russian authorities for the death of Navalny whose prison sentence had been extended by 19 years last year.

"What has happened to Navalny is yet more proof of Putin's brutality no one should be fooled not in Russia not at home not anywhere in the world," said US President Joe Biden last week.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw1WPNNH7fjwh_C3Ktq11u7O" data-ved="2ahUKEwjao7KD8LSEAxVryDgGHUCDBjkQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalnys-mother-was-told-he-died-by-sudden-death-syndrome-says-leaders-team-691308" jsname="YKoRaf">Authorities told Alexei Navalny’s mother that he died due to ‘sudden death syndrome’</a>

On Monday, Biden said he was "considering&nbsp;additional sanctions"&nbsp;on Moscow over Navalny's death.&nbsp;

"We already have sanctions, but we are considering additional sanctions, yes," said Biden.&nbsp;

Even former president Donald Trump acknowledged the sudden of Navalny, three days after the Russian's death.&nbsp;

“The sudden death of Alexei Navalny has made me more and more aware of what is happening in our country,”&nbsp;Trump posted on his Truth Social network.&nbsp;

“It is a slow, steady progression, with CROOKED, Radical Left Politicians, Prosecutors, and Judges leading us down a path to destruction," he added.&nbsp;

Navalny&nbsp;once led street protests against the Russian president, building a potent opposition that constantly targeted Moscow's corrupt officials.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A number of European countries on Monday (Feb 19) summoned Russian diplomats over the rather suspicious death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny last week, whilst also warning of fresh sanctions.

A number of European countries on Monday (Feb 19) summoned Russian diplomats over the rather suspicious death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny last week, whilst also warning of fresh sanctions. France led the chart by summoning the Russian ambassador to Paris, confirmed foreign minister Stephane Sejourne who is currently on a diplomatic trip to Argentina. "I have asked for the convocation of the Russian ambassador today," he informed during a press conference, adding that "the regime of Vladimir Putin has once again shown its true nature". Norway's foreign ministry also released a statement saying it had done the same. "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has today summoned the Russian ambassador for a talk about the death of Alexei Navalny. In the conversation, Norwegian views will be conveyed about Russian authorities' responsibility for the death and for facilitating a transparent investigation," the ministry said in a statement. Finland, Lithuania, Spain Sweden and the Netherlands are the others to have summoned diplomats from Russian embassies. London had done the same Friday (Feb 16) evening. Meanwhile, Germany said it was proposing fresh sanctions against Moscow as President Vladimir Putin had once again used his powers to cull freedom in the country. “We have seen the brutal force with which the Russian president represses his own citizens who take to the streets to demonstrate for freedom or write about it in newspapers,” said German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock. “We will propose new sanctions in light of the death of Alexei Navalny.” Notably, Germany under Chancellor Olaf Scholz temporarily took in Navalny in 2020 after he was poisoned with a nerve agent. According to reports, after EU foreign ministers agreed on a 13th round of sanctions against the Kremlin on Monday, the bloc was studying ways of hitting back at Putin in a 14th round in the coming weeks. Watch | Alexei Navalny death: Navalny’s body found with ‘bruises’ as West holds Putin responsible × Western bloc blames Putin The Western bloc has taken a unanimous stand in blaming the Russian authorities for the death of Navalny whose prison sentence had been extended by 19 years last year. "What has happened to Navalny is yet more proof of Putin's brutality no one should be fooled not in Russia not at home not anywhere in the world," said US President Joe Biden last week. Also read: Authorities told Alexei Navalny’s mother that he died due to ‘sudden death syndrome’ On Monday, Biden said he was "considering additional sanctions" on Moscow over Navalny's death. "We already have sanctions, but we are considering additional sanctions, yes," said Biden. Even former president Donald Trump acknowledged the sudden of Navalny, three days after the Russian's death. “The sudden death of Alexei Navalny has made me more and more aware of what is happening in our country,” Trump posted on his Truth Social network. “It is a slow, steady progression, with CROOKED, Radical Left Politicians, Prosecutors, and Judges leading us down a path to destruction," he added. Navalny once led street protests against the Russian president, building a potent opposition that constantly targeted Moscow's corrupt officials. (With inputs from agencies)

Alexei Navalny death: European nations summon Russian diplomats, warn of fresh sanctions

A dark web site belonging to the world's most infamous ransomware gang has been seized by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and its international allies. The multinational ransomware gang known as LockBit had been in the headlines for years for routinely extorting money from individuals, multinational companies as well as governments.&nbsp;

While the full extent of the cyber effort codenamed 'Operation Cronos' by intelligence partners is unknown at this stage, a message&nbsp;on the group's .onion website displays a seizure banner.&nbsp;

“We can confirm that Lockbit’s&nbsp;services have been disrupted as a result of International Law Enforcement action —&nbsp;this is an ongoing and developing operation,” read the message posted&nbsp;on Monday (Feb 19).&nbsp;

"The site is under the control of the National Crime Agency (NCA) of the UK, working in close cooperation with the FBI and the international law enforcement task force, 'Operation Cronos'," the message added along&nbsp;with the seals of the FBI, NCA&nbsp;and a host of other law enforcement agencies from Australia to Germany.

A CNN report stated that the agencies will publicly disclose more details of the operation on Tuesday (Feb 20).&nbsp;

According to malware research group VX-Underground, the notorious hacker group was compromised and its website was taken down by exploiting a&nbsp;critical security flaw impacting PHP (CVE-2023-3824, CVSS score: 9.8) that could result in remote code execution.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-planemaker-boeing-confirms-cyberattack-boeing-ransomware-attack-by-lockbit-group-654559">Watch | US planemaker Boeing confirms cyberattack | Boeing ransomware attack by Lockbit group</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>LockBit's emergence&nbsp;</h2>

LockBit first made waves on the international scene in 2019 and since then it has been the most active and notorious ransomware gang, claiming more than 2,000 victims.

The British authorities warned last year that&nbsp;LockBit's eponymous software remained the "most deployed ransomware variant" across the world in 2022 and that it "continues to be prolific so far in 2023".

LockBit was behind the major cyberattack on the UK's Royal Mail in early 2023 which forced the mail carrier to plead with customers to stop sending any international mail.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-royal-mail-suffers-a-cyberattack-services-face-severe-disruption-551719">Also read |&nbsp;UK's Royal Mail suffers&nbsp;cyberattack, services face 'severe' disruption</a>

Additionally, LockBit claimed responsibility for ransomware attacks on the&nbsp;Industrial and Commercial Bank of China and Fulton County, Georgia, in recent months.

LockBit's website being hacked by the authorities comes in the backdrop of the BlackCat ransomware group being dismantled by the US government a couple of months ago.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A dark web site belonging to the world's most infamous ransomware gang has been seized by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and its international allies.

A dark web site belonging to the world's most infamous ransomware gang has been seized by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and its international allies. The multinational ransomware gang known as LockBit had been in the headlines for years for routinely extorting money from individuals, multinational companies as well as governments. While the full extent of the cyber effort codenamed 'Operation Cronos' by intelligence partners is unknown at this stage, a message on the group's .onion website displays a seizure banner. “We can confirm that Lockbit’s services have been disrupted as a result of International Law Enforcement action — this is an ongoing and developing operation,” read the message posted on Monday (Feb 19). "The site is under the control of the National Crime Agency (NCA) of the UK, working in close cooperation with the FBI and the international law enforcement task force, 'Operation Cronos'," the message added along with the seals of the FBI, NCA and a host of other law enforcement agencies from Australia to Germany. A CNN report stated that the agencies will publicly disclose more details of the operation on Tuesday (Feb 20). According to malware research group VX-Underground, the notorious hacker group was compromised and its website was taken down by exploiting a critical security flaw impacting PHP (CVE-2023-3824, CVSS score: 9.8) that could result in remote code execution. Watch | US planemaker Boeing confirms cyberattack | Boeing ransomware attack by Lockbit group × LockBit's emergence LockBit first made waves on the international scene in 2019 and since then it has been the most active and notorious ransomware gang, claiming more than 2,000 victims. The British authorities warned last year that LockBit's eponymous software remained the "most deployed ransomware variant" across the world in 2022 and that it "continues to be prolific so far in 2023". LockBit was behind the major cyberattack on the UK's Royal Mail in early 2023 which forced the mail carrier to plead with customers to stop sending any international mail. Also read | UK's Royal Mail suffers cyberattack, services face 'severe' disruption Additionally, LockBit claimed responsibility for ransomware attacks on the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China and Fulton County, Georgia, in recent months. LockBit's website being hacked by the authorities comes in the backdrop of the BlackCat ransomware group being dismantled by the US government a couple of months ago. (With inputs from agencies)

LockBit: World's most infamous ransomware gang's website seized by FBI and allies

Former YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki's 19-year-old son Marco Troper has died, aged 19, informed his family. Troper was found dead in a&nbsp;University of California, Berkeley campus dormitory where he was a student.&nbsp;

According to the University of California Police Department (UCPD), Troper was found dead when authorities responded to reports of an unresponsive student in the dorm.&nbsp;

"Berkeley Fire Department notified UCPD that they were attempting life-saving measures on the victim," said UCPS in a statement.&nbsp;

"UCPD responded, and Berkeley Fire Department pronounced the person deceased."

Based on the initial investigation, authorities said no signs of foul play were found at the scene. Notably, Troper had&nbsp;started the second semester of his freshman year at UC Berkeley where he was majoring in math. He was also part of the&nbsp;Zeta Psi fraternity at the campus.&nbsp;

Troper's grieving grandmother Esther Wojcicki took to Facebook to mourn her grandson, saying he was taken away too soon.

"Tragedy hit my family yesterday. My beloved grandson Marco Troper, age 19 passed away yesterday. Our family is devastated beyond comprehension," wrote Esther.&nbsp;

"Marco's life was cut too short. And we are all devastated, thinking about all the opportunities and life experiences that he will miss and we will miss together. Marco, we all love you and miss you more than you will ever know," she added.&nbsp;

Esther, however, in an interview to a US media outlet suggested that her grandson may have died from a drug overdose.&nbsp;

"He ingested a drug, and we don't know what was in it. … One thing we do know, it was a drug," Esther Wojcicki told SFGATE.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-are-indian-students-dying-being-attacked-in-the-us-688002">Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas | Why are Indian students dying, being attacked in the US?</a>

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<h2>Susan&nbsp;quits as YouTube CEO</h2>

Susan, one of the most famous women in tech and part of the original Google employees group, exited the company as YouTube CEO last year after 25 years on the job.

Citing her reason for the departure,&nbsp;Wojcicki said she wanted to focus on “family, health, and personal projects”.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/youtube-ceo-susan-wojcicki-steps-down-after-nine-years-indian-american-neal-mohan-to-replace-her-562865">Also read |&nbsp;Who is Neal Mohan? Indian-American to replace YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki as she steps down</a>

Alongside her husband Dennis Troper,&nbsp;Wojcicki has four children. She is yet to issue a statement following her son's death.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki's 19-year-old son Marco Troper has died, aged 19, informed his family. Troper was found dead in a University of California, Berkeley campus dormitory where he was a student.

Former YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki's 19-year-old son Marco Troper has died, aged 19, informed his family. Troper was found dead in a University of California, Berkeley campus dormitory where he was a student. According to the University of California Police Department (UCPD), Troper was found dead when authorities responded to reports of an unresponsive student in the dorm. "Berkeley Fire Department notified UCPD that they were attempting life-saving measures on the victim," said UCPS in a statement. "UCPD responded, and Berkeley Fire Department pronounced the person deceased." Based on the initial investigation, authorities said no signs of foul play were found at the scene. Notably, Troper had started the second semester of his freshman year at UC Berkeley where he was majoring in math. He was also part of the Zeta Psi fraternity at the campus. Troper's grieving grandmother Esther Wojcicki took to Facebook to mourn her grandson, saying he was taken away too soon. "Tragedy hit my family yesterday. My beloved grandson Marco Troper, age 19 passed away yesterday. Our family is devastated beyond comprehension," wrote Esther. "Marco's life was cut too short. And we are all devastated, thinking about all the opportunities and life experiences that he will miss and we will miss together. Marco, we all love you and miss you more than you will ever know," she added. Esther, however, in an interview to a US media outlet suggested that her grandson may have died from a drug overdose. "He ingested a drug, and we don't know what was in it. … One thing we do know, it was a drug," Esther Wojcicki told SFGATE. Watch | Gravitas | Why are Indian students dying, being attacked in the US? × Susan quits as YouTube CEO Susan, one of the most famous women in tech and part of the original Google employees group, exited the company as YouTube CEO last year after 25 years on the job. Citing her reason for the departure, Wojcicki said she wanted to focus on “family, health, and personal projects”. Also read | Who is Neal Mohan? Indian-American to replace YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki as she steps down Alongside her husband Dennis Troper, Wojcicki has four children. She is yet to issue a statement following her son's death. (With inputs from agencies)

Former YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki's son found dead in UC Berkeley dorm

Ukrainian visa holders who arrived in the UK to escape the ongoing war with Russia will be given an additional 18-month extension&nbsp;to stay in Britain until at least September 2026, announced the Home Office on Sunday (Feb 18).&nbsp;

Since the start of the war nearly two years ago, more than 200,000 Ukrainians have sought sanctuary in the UK. Now, with the first visas issued in March 2022 set to expire next year, the Home Office said the new scheme would provide&nbsp;“certainty and assurance” for Ukrainians in the UK.

“This new visa extension scheme provides certainty and reassurance for Ukrainians in the UK on their future as this war continues, and we will continue to provide a safe haven for those fleeing the conflict,” said migration minister Tom Pursglov, adding that the&nbsp;extension would affect more than 283,000 Ukrainians.&nbsp;

Currently, Britain has two schemes for Ukrainian refugees - one for those having a family in the UK while the other allows Britons to offer accommodation to those fleeing the war.&nbsp;

Apart from extending the visa duration, Britain also said it would supply thousands of drones to Kyiv and urged US lawmakers to vote for a $95 billion security aid package for Ukraine and other allies.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-announces-withdrawal-from-avdiivka-big-win-for-moscow-world-news-691300">Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv announces withdrawal from Avdiivka, big win for Moscow | World News</a>

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<h2>Ukraine's struggles in the war</h2>

The announcement comes a day after Russia said it had assumed "full control" of the eastern Ukrainian city of&nbsp;Avdiivka. Kyiv also confirmed it had indeed&nbsp;pulled out of the former stronghold to save soldiers' lives.

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said President Vladimir Putin had congratulated the military on "such an&nbsp;important victory".&nbsp;

Notably, the&nbsp;capture of Avdiivka represents Russia's biggest victory in the war since May last year and signals that the conflict&nbsp;could drag on.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-withdraws-forces-from-avdiivka-hours-after-signing-french-security-deal-691084">Ukraine withdraws forces from Avdiivka, hours after signing French security deal</a>

Despite launching a much-publicised counter-offensive last year, the Ukrainian troops under President Volodymyr Zelensky have made little to no inroads.

With the weapons arsenal and funding drying up, Zelensky is anxiously looking towards the US Congress to approve another tranche of aid money. However, friction between the Republicans and Democrats has stopped the aid bill from passing through.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian visa holders who arrived in the UK to escape the ongoing war with Russia will be given an additional 18-month extension to stay in Britain until at least September 2026, announced the Home Office on Sunday (Feb 18).

Ukrainian visa holders who arrived in the UK to escape the ongoing war with Russia will be given an additional 18-month extension to stay in Britain until at least September 2026, announced the Home Office on Sunday (Feb 18). Since the start of the war nearly two years ago, more than 200,000 Ukrainians have sought sanctuary in the UK. Now, with the first visas issued in March 2022 set to expire next year, the Home Office said the new scheme would provide “certainty and assurance” for Ukrainians in the UK. “This new visa extension scheme provides certainty and reassurance for Ukrainians in the UK on their future as this war continues, and we will continue to provide a safe haven for those fleeing the conflict,” said migration minister Tom Pursglov, adding that the extension would affect more than 283,000 Ukrainians. Currently, Britain has two schemes for Ukrainian refugees - one for those having a family in the UK while the other allows Britons to offer accommodation to those fleeing the war. Apart from extending the visa duration, Britain also said it would supply thousands of drones to Kyiv and urged US lawmakers to vote for a $95 billion security aid package for Ukraine and other allies. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Kyiv announces withdrawal from Avdiivka, big win for Moscow | World News × Ukraine's struggles in the war The announcement comes a day after Russia said it had assumed "full control" of the eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiivka. Kyiv also confirmed it had indeed pulled out of the former stronghold to save soldiers' lives. Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said President Vladimir Putin had congratulated the military on "such an important victory". Notably, the capture of Avdiivka represents Russia's biggest victory in the war since May last year and signals that the conflict could drag on. Also read | Ukraine withdraws forces from Avdiivka, hours after signing French security deal Despite launching a much-publicised counter-offensive last year, the Ukrainian troops under President Volodymyr Zelensky have made little to no inroads. With the weapons arsenal and funding drying up, Zelensky is anxiously looking towards the US Congress to approve another tranche of aid money. However, friction between the Republicans and Democrats has stopped the aid bill from passing through. (With inputs from agencies)

UK announces 18-month visa extension scheme for Ukrainians

Thailand's jailed former prime minister Thaksin Shinwatra was seen leaving the jail on Sunday (Feb 18) morning where he had been lodged for the last six months, according to various agency reports.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;billionaire leader, wearing a neck brace and sitting next to his daughter, could be seen leaving the police hospital in central Bangkok. Shortly after, he was spotted arriving at his home where a welcome-home banner was tied across the gate.&nbsp;

A handful of people had gathered in front of the hospital, protesting the divisive figure's release from prison.&nbsp;

Thaksin, now 74, is among the 930 prisoners granted early release, falling into the category of those in critical condition or aged over 70.

<h2>Who is Thaksin Shinawatra?&nbsp;</h2>

Thaksin Shinawatra is a controversial billionaire who twice held Thailand's prime ministerial office before being ousted in a 2006 military coup. He dramatically returned to the country six months ago from a self-imposed 15 years of exile.

Also watch |&nbsp;Former Thai PM Shinawatra requests pardon from jail term

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In August 2023, Thaksin was sentenced to eight years in prison on charges of graft and abuse of power. However, King Maha Vajiralongkorn swiftly reduced his sentence to one year shortly after the initial ruling.&nbsp;

<h2>Thaskin's return to Bangkok</h2>

Thaksin's return to Thailand coincided with his political party, Pheu Thai, regaining power through an alliance with pro-military parties last year.&nbsp;

The former Machester City owner's surprise return and subsequent transfer to a police hospital fuelled speculations that a backroom deal had been agreed to cut his jail time.&nbsp;

Notably,&nbsp;Thaksin was suffering from&nbsp;chest tightness and high blood pressure when he was admitted to hospital where he underwent two procedures, according to his family.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-thaksin-shinawatra-former-thai-pm-returns-to-country-after-15-years-in-self-exile-627898">Who is Thaksin Shinawatra? Former Thai PM jailed immediately after return from exile</a>

The former telecom&nbsp;tycoon remains a highly influential yet polarising figure in modern Thai history, drawing support from millions of rural Thais for his populist policies in the early 2000s while facing opposition from the country's royalist and pro-military establishment.

(With inputs from agencies)

Thailand's jailed former prime minister Thaksin Shinwatra was seen leaving the jail on Sunday (Feb 18) morning where he had been lodged for the last six months, according to various agency reports.

Thailand's jailed former prime minister Thaksin Shinwatra was seen leaving the jail on Sunday (Feb 18) morning where he had been lodged for the last six months, according to various agency reports. The billionaire leader, wearing a neck brace and sitting next to his daughter, could be seen leaving the police hospital in central Bangkok. Shortly after, he was spotted arriving at his home where a welcome-home banner was tied across the gate. A handful of people had gathered in front of the hospital, protesting the divisive figure's release from prison. Thaksin, now 74, is among the 930 prisoners granted early release, falling into the category of those in critical condition or aged over 70. Who is Thaksin Shinawatra? Thaksin Shinawatra is a controversial billionaire who twice held Thailand's prime ministerial office before being ousted in a 2006 military coup. He dramatically returned to the country six months ago from a self-imposed 15 years of exile. Also watch | Former Thai PM Shinawatra requests pardon from jail term In August 2023, Thaksin was sentenced to eight years in prison on charges of graft and abuse of power. However, King Maha Vajiralongkorn swiftly reduced his sentence to one year shortly after the initial ruling. Thaskin's return to Bangkok Thaksin's return to Thailand coincided with his political party, Pheu Thai, regaining power through an alliance with pro-military parties last year. The former Machester City owner's surprise return and subsequent transfer to a police hospital fuelled speculations that a backroom deal had been agreed to cut his jail time. Notably, Thaksin was suffering from chest tightness and high blood pressure when he was admitted to hospital where he underwent two procedures, according to his family. Also read | Who is Thaksin Shinawatra? Former Thai PM jailed immediately after return from exile The former telecom tycoon remains a highly influential yet polarising figure in modern Thai history, drawing support from millions of rural Thais for his populist policies in the early 2000s while facing opposition from the country's royalist and pro-military establishment. (With inputs from agencies)

Former Thai PM Thaksin Shinawatra leaves prison hospital on parole: Reports

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&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;

<h2>Time is Money (Elon Musk Net worth)</h2>

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;

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>

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 |&nbsp;Elon Musk's X received payments from terrorists

<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>

This is equal to $6,887 per minute, $413,220 per hour, $9,917,280 per day, and $69,420,960 per week.

<h2>Elon Musk's sources of earning</h2>

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 |&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>

"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)

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

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;

<h2>Honey trap</h2>

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 |&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>

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 |&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>

The ATS has now requested Moscow to authenticate details of Siwal's bank accounts there.&nbsp;

<h2>Charges Siwal faces</h2>

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)

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

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.

<h2>Promises of empowerment</h2>

"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 |&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>

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)".&nbsp;

<h2>"Take charge of your fertility"</h2>

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 |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shark-attacks-doubled-in-2023-finds-study-687567">Shark attacks doubled in 2023, finds study</a>

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".

<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" />

"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. 
&nbsp; 
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)

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

Indian security forces fired tear gas at protesting farmers for a second day on Wednesday (February 14) to stop tens of thousands from marching to the capital New Delhi to demand higher prices for their produce.

Farmers' protest: How protesting farmers are using kites to defy security forces

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.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened?</h2>

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;

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 |&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>

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.&nbsp;

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 |&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>

<h2>Legal woes</h2>

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)

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

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;

<h2>The conviction</h2>

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 |&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>

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.

<h2>What is cyber flashing?</h2>

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."

"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 |&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>

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;

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.

<h2>UK's Online Safety Act</h2>

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 |&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>

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.

<h2>Cyber-flashing laws around the world</h2>

- 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&nbsp;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.&nbsp;

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.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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

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.

<h2>How the group carried out their crimes</h2>

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;

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 |&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>

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 |&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>

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)

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

Democrat leader&nbsp;Tom Suozzi has won the special election to New York's 3rd District, beating&nbsp;Republican candidate Mazi Pilip,&nbsp;according to US media reports.&nbsp;Suozzi's victory means he will be replacing embattled former GOP Rep. George Santos.&nbsp;

The seat had been vacant since Santos was ousted from the Congressional chamber late last year over a plethora of high-profile scandals and criminal charges.&nbsp;

“The people of Queens and Long Island are sick and tired of political bickering.&nbsp;They want us to come together and solve problems,"&nbsp;Suozzi said in a victory speech.

“Let’s send a message to our friends running the Congress these days: Stop running around for Trump, and start running the country,” he added.&nbsp;

Pilip conceded the race and said she had called Suozzi to congratulate him on the victory.&nbsp;

“Yes we lost, but it doesn’t mean we are going to end here,” Pilip told supporters at her election watch party.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/embattled-republican-leader-george-santos-accused-of-sexual-harassment-by-a-former-aide-559139">Also read | Embattled Republican leader George Santos accused of sexual harassment by a former aide</a>

<h2>What does the win signify?</h2>

With the win, the Democrats have narrowed the already razor-thin House majority enjoyed by the Republicans - making passing of legislation even more difficult. The House Democrats have risen to 213, closing in on the 219-member GOP majority.&nbsp;

Effectively, it means that Republicans can allow only two defectors to break ranks and still pass legislation along the party&nbsp;high-command lines.&nbsp;

The thin margin for error has already embarrassed the GOP lawmakers in the chamber. Last week, Homeland Security Chief Alejandro Mayorkas avoided impeachment following a 214-216 vote which marked a blow for Speaker Mike Johnson and other Republican leaders.

Colorado Rep. Ken Buck, Wisconsin Rep. Mike Gallagher and California Rep. Tom McClintock were the three Republicans who halted Mayorkas' exit after Mark Green, who presides over the Homeland Security Committee, sent the impeachment articles.&nbsp;

It took another attempt by the Republicans on Tuesday (Feb 13) to finally get rid of&nbsp;Mayorkas, whom they blame for the surge in migrants illegally crossing the southern border.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-dreamers-left-in-lurch-by-senate-border-bill-687433">Watch | US: 'Dreamers' left in lurch by Senate Border Bill</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-20="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-dreamers-left-in-lurch-by-senate-border-bill-687433/embed" width="560"></iframe>

<h2>What happened to Santos?&nbsp;</h2>

The seat in New York's influential district is being regarded as a key indicator of voter sentiment ahead of the potential Biden-Trump showdown later this year.

President Biden won the district in 2020 but the area turned Red in the 2022 midterm elections when Santos was elected.&nbsp;

However, after over 20 counts of fraud were levelled against him, Santos was expelled from Congress.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Democrat leader Tom Suozzi has won the special election to New York's 3rd District, beating Republican candidate Mazi Pilip, according to US media reports. Suozzi's victory means he will be replacing embattled former GOP Rep.

Democrat leader Tom Suozzi has won the special election to New York's 3rd District, beating Republican candidate Mazi Pilip, according to US media reports. Suozzi's victory means he will be replacing embattled former GOP Rep. George Santos. The seat had been vacant since Santos was ousted from the Congressional chamber late last year over a plethora of high-profile scandals and criminal charges. “The people of Queens and Long Island are sick and tired of political bickering. They want us to come together and solve problems," Suozzi said in a victory speech. “Let’s send a message to our friends running the Congress these days: Stop running around for Trump, and start running the country,” he added. Pilip conceded the race and said she had called Suozzi to congratulate him on the victory. “Yes we lost, but it doesn’t mean we are going to end here,” Pilip told supporters at her election watch party. Also read | Embattled Republican leader George Santos accused of sexual harassment by a former aide What does the win signify? With the win, the Democrats have narrowed the already razor-thin House majority enjoyed by the Republicans - making passing of legislation even more difficult. The House Democrats have risen to 213, closing in on the 219-member GOP majority. Effectively, it means that Republicans can allow only two defectors to break ranks and still pass legislation along the party high-command lines. The thin margin for error has already embarrassed the GOP lawmakers in the chamber. Last week, Homeland Security Chief Alejandro Mayorkas avoided impeachment following a 214-216 vote which marked a blow for Speaker Mike Johnson and other Republican leaders. Colorado Rep. Ken Buck, Wisconsin Rep. Mike Gallagher and California Rep. Tom McClintock were the three Republicans who halted Mayorkas' exit after Mark Green, who presides over the Homeland Security Committee, sent the impeachment articles. It took another attempt by the Republicans on Tuesday (Feb 13) to finally get rid of Mayorkas, whom they blame for the surge in migrants illegally crossing the southern border. Watch | US: 'Dreamers' left in lurch by Senate Border Bill What happened to Santos? The seat in New York's influential district is being regarded as a key indicator of voter sentiment ahead of the potential Biden-Trump showdown later this year. President Biden won the district in 2020 but the area turned Red in the 2022 midterm elections when Santos was elected. However, after over 20 counts of fraud were levelled against him, Santos was expelled from Congress. (With inputs from agencies)

Democrat Tom Suozzi wins New York special election, replacing ousted Republican George Santos

The Congress declared its support for farmers' demands. Farmers are demanding a legal guarantee on Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops. Leader Mallikarjun Kharge announced this as the party's "first guarantee" ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. Watch this video for all details.

Farmers' protest: Politics over 'Right to MSP' as INDIA bloc makes big election promise

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.

<h2>A deepfake</h2>

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 |&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>

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:

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
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>
— 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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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Indonesia elections</h2>

With over 200 million voters expected to participate, the political landscape is rife with competition.&nbsp;

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>

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)

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!

A federal judge has ramped up the Securities and exchange commission's scrutiny of Elon Musk's $44 billion takeover of Twitter, now branded as 'x'. The judge's order demands Musk's testimony. Watch to know more!

Elon musk faces court-ordered grilling over $44 bn twitter deal

Former US President Donald Trump raised a storm of criticism from the White House and Western officials. He suggested he would not defend NATO allies who failed to spend enough on defence. Watch this video for all details.

What did Trump say about NATO funding and why is it worrying European allies?

US President Joe Biden's re-election campaign&nbsp;on Sunday (Feb 11) joined the TikTok by posting a 26-second video, even as his administration cracks down on the Chinese owned short-video platform over alleged security concerns.&nbsp;

Biden's account bio declared he "Grows the economy" while the video was captioned: "lol hey guys".

In the video, Biden can be seen playing a light-hearted, rapid-fire game&nbsp;with questions ranging from politics to the Super Bowl.&nbsp;

Questioned if there was a secret plot to rig the Super Bowl so that Taylor Swift, currently dating the title winners Kansas City Chiefs' star Travis Kelce, could use her fame to endorse Biden, the Democrat leader leaned into the conspiracy theory.&nbsp;

"I'd get in trouble if I told you," Biden said.

Notably, the account is run under the name&nbsp;Team Biden-Harris, referring to the re-election effort of the Democrat top team.

The&nbsp;TikTok account will be getting the same updates from the Biden team as it does on other social channels including Threads, Instagram, Facebook, X and Truth Social, according to campaign advisers, media reports said.

<h2>But...hypocrisy?</h2>

Biden campaign's joining of TikTok comes in the backdrop of his administration banning the social media platform on federal devices last year.

TikTok, owned by Chinese firm ByteDance has long been accused by US lawmakers of being a propaganda and spy tool used by Beijing.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

While the Republicans under former president Donald Trump first raised the calls to ban the app, the Democrats have also fiercely criticised its use, especially among young people.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;TikTok users file lawsuit to block Montana ban&nbsp;

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<h2>TikTok's growing popularity</h2>

TikTok, which has over 150 million American users (the total US population is estimated to be around&nbsp;332mn), has grown&nbsp;quite popular among teenagers and young adults.

According to the Pew Research Centre, 67 per cent&nbsp;of 13&nbsp;to 17-year-olds in the United States use TikTok, while 16 per cent&nbsp;of all adolescents use the app fairly daily.

TikTok meanwhile claims that the "vast majority" of its users are over the age of 18.

However, the app has become the target&nbsp;of politicians and state authorities in the US&nbsp;owing to&nbsp;Chinese cybersecurity laws that allow&nbsp;President Xi Jinping's government to access the company's&nbsp;data.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/montana-becomes-first-us-state-to-ban-tiktok-free-speech-supporters-call-move-unconstitutional-593492">Also read |&nbsp;Montana becomes first US state to ban TikTok, free speech supporters call move 'unconstitutional'</a>

In May last year, Montana's Republican-dominated legislature became the first state in the US to pass a complete ban on the app.&nbsp;

The state argued that the Chinese government could gain access to user information from TikTok whose parent company ByteDance is based out of Beijing.&nbsp;

However, in December a federal judge blocked the ban which was to kick into effect from January 1, 2024.

In the verdict, District Judge Donald Molloy said the ban “oversteps state power and infringes on the Constitutional right of users and businesses".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden's re-election campaign on Sunday (Feb 11) joined the TikTok by posting a 26-second video, even as his administration cracks down on the Chinese owned short-video platform over alleged security concerns.

US President Joe Biden's re-election campaign on Sunday (Feb 11) joined the TikTok by posting a 26-second video, even as his administration cracks down on the Chinese owned short-video platform over alleged security concerns. Biden's account bio declared he "Grows the economy" while the video was captioned: "lol hey guys". In the video, Biden can be seen playing a light-hearted, rapid-fire game with questions ranging from politics to the Super Bowl. Questioned if there was a secret plot to rig the Super Bowl so that Taylor Swift, currently dating the title winners Kansas City Chiefs' star Travis Kelce, could use her fame to endorse Biden, the Democrat leader leaned into the conspiracy theory. "I'd get in trouble if I told you," Biden said. Notably, the account is run under the name Team Biden-Harris, referring to the re-election effort of the Democrat top team. The TikTok account will be getting the same updates from the Biden team as it does on other social channels including Threads, Instagram, Facebook, X and Truth Social, according to campaign advisers, media reports said. But...hypocrisy? Biden campaign's joining of TikTok comes in the backdrop of his administration banning the social media platform on federal devices last year. TikTok, owned by Chinese firm ByteDance has long been accused by US lawmakers of being a propaganda and spy tool used by Beijing. While the Republicans under former president Donald Trump first raised the calls to ban the app, the Democrats have also fiercely criticised its use, especially among young people. WATCH | TikTok users file lawsuit to block Montana ban TikTok's growing popularity TikTok, which has over 150 million American users (the total US population is estimated to be around 332mn), has grown quite popular among teenagers and young adults. According to the Pew Research Centre, 67 per cent of 13 to 17-year-olds in the United States use TikTok, while 16 per cent of all adolescents use the app fairly daily. TikTok meanwhile claims that the "vast majority" of its users are over the age of 18. However, the app has become the target of politicians and state authorities in the US owing to Chinese cybersecurity laws that allow President Xi Jinping's government to access the company's data. Also read | Montana becomes first US state to ban TikTok, free speech supporters call move 'unconstitutional' In May last year, Montana's Republican-dominated legislature became the first state in the US to pass a complete ban on the app. The state argued that the Chinese government could gain access to user information from TikTok whose parent company ByteDance is based out of Beijing. However, in December a federal judge blocked the ban which was to kick into effect from January 1, 2024. In the verdict, District Judge Donald Molloy said the ban “oversteps state power and infringes on the Constitutional right of users and businesses". (With inputs from agencies)

Hypocrisy? US President Joe Biden's re-election campaign joins TikTok even as govt cracks down on app

Iran is recruiting British Muslims on pilgrimage tours to various Middle Eastern countries to spy on Jews and Jewish targets in the United Kingdom, a report in the DailyMail has claimed.&nbsp;

Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is said to be behind the recruitment process. The modus operandi involves the IRGC recruiters approaching&nbsp;Shiite Muslims visiting religious sites in the Middle East and asking them to gather classified or useful information about prominent Jews, synagogues and&nbsp;Iranian dissidents.

The publication claimed that British Muslims, who visited&nbsp;the holy Iraqi city of Kerbala in September last year were approached to spy for Iran.&nbsp;

“We do not know the scale of Iranian agents inside Europe and the UK, but all it takes is for one to slip through the net," an unnamed source was quoted as saying.

The report added that some Iranians who come to study at British universities as international students on state scholarships also act as spies.&nbsp;

Quoting a British official, the report claimed that the Iranian regime also utilised British-based organised crime networks to carry out attacks on US soil.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-counterstrike-on-iran-backed-forces-former-retaliates-after-3-troops-hurt-world-news-wion-673669">Watch |&nbsp;US counterstrike on Iran-backed forces, former retaliates after 3 troops hurt</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-20="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-counterstrike-on-iran-backed-forces-former-retaliates-after-3-troops-hurt-world-news-wion-673669/embed" width="560"></iframe>

<h2>Iran vs Israel</h2>

Iran and Israel are perennial foes.&nbsp;For years, the two&nbsp;countries have accused each other of spying and waging a shadow war.&nbsp;

They are currently locked in a fight over Iran's nuclear programme. Israel views Iran as its greatest threat and has repeatedly threatened to take military action to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons.&nbsp;

Additionally, the Iran-backed Hezbollah terror group, operating from Lebanon has been routinely attacking Israel after the events of October 7, leading to further escalation in tension between the two countries.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-backed-islamist-terror-outfits-strike-us-base-in-syria-again-674829">Also read |&nbsp;Iran-backed Islamist terror outfits strike US base in Syria again</a>

Since Tel Aviv started retaliating against Hamas over the terrorist attack last year, Hezbollah has attempted to engage Israel as well as its allies in confrontation.&nbsp;

Last month, Tehran increased the hostilities with Israel by executing four people it said had links to Tel Aviv and its intelligence unit - Mossad.&nbsp;

Tehran claimed Mossad had recruited the men,&nbsp;about a year and a half prior to the operation. The said operation was meant to take place in the summer of 2022 but was averted by Iranian intelligence, according to the reports.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran is recruiting British Muslims on pilgrimage tours to various Middle Eastern countries to spy on Jews and Jewish targets in the United Kingdom, a report in the DailyMail has claimed.

Iran is recruiting British Muslims on pilgrimage tours to various Middle Eastern countries to spy on Jews and Jewish targets in the United Kingdom, a report in the DailyMail has claimed. Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is said to be behind the recruitment process. The modus operandi involves the IRGC recruiters approaching Shiite Muslims visiting religious sites in the Middle East and asking them to gather classified or useful information about prominent Jews, synagogues and Iranian dissidents. The publication claimed that British Muslims, who visited the holy Iraqi city of Kerbala in September last year were approached to spy for Iran. “We do not know the scale of Iranian agents inside Europe and the UK, but all it takes is for one to slip through the net," an unnamed source was quoted as saying. The report added that some Iranians who come to study at British universities as international students on state scholarships also act as spies. Quoting a British official, the report claimed that the Iranian regime also utilised British-based organised crime networks to carry out attacks on US soil. Watch | US counterstrike on Iran-backed forces, former retaliates after 3 troops hurt Iran vs Israel Iran and Israel are perennial foes. For years, the two countries have accused each other of spying and waging a shadow war. They are currently locked in a fight over Iran's nuclear programme. Israel views Iran as its greatest threat and has repeatedly threatened to take military action to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Additionally, the Iran-backed Hezbollah terror group, operating from Lebanon has been routinely attacking Israel after the events of October 7, leading to further escalation in tension between the two countries. Also read | Iran-backed Islamist terror outfits strike US base in Syria again Since Tel Aviv started retaliating against Hamas over the terrorist attack last year, Hezbollah has attempted to engage Israel as well as its allies in confrontation. Last month, Tehran increased the hostilities with Israel by executing four people it said had links to Tel Aviv and its intelligence unit - Mossad. Tehran claimed Mossad had recruited the men, about a year and a half prior to the operation. The said operation was meant to take place in the summer of 2022 but was averted by Iranian intelligence, according to the reports. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran recruiting British Muslims on pilgrimage in Middle East to spy on Jews: Report

An infant in the US state of Missouri died on Friday (Feb 9) after her mother mistakenly put her inside an oven for a nap, according to a report by news agency Associated Press.&nbsp;

The accused mother, identified as Mariah Thomas of Kansas City faces "Class A felony of endangering the welfare of a child in the 1st degree, death of a child", a prosecutor informed on Saturday (Feb 10).&nbsp;

The incident took place on Friday afternoon when police officers responded to a report of a month-old child not breathing at a house near 41st Street and Forest Avenue. The first responders, upon reaching the scene, declared the baby&nbsp;dead.&nbsp;

However, detectives said the circumstances around the child’s death were suspicious enough to cause concern and they initiated an investigation.

The first responders had noticed burns on the child and upon pressing Thomas, she said she was putting the child down for a nap but accidentally put her in the oven, instead of the crib.&nbsp;

The statement did not offer an explanation about how that mistake was made. It remains unclear at this stage whether Thomas has an attorney or not.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/missing-6-year-old-girl-hind-rajab-found-dead-in-gaza-weeks-after-repeated-calls-for-help-689129">Watch |&nbsp;Missing 6-year-old girl Hind Rajab found dead in Gaza weeks after repeated calls for help</a>

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<h2>Probe on&nbsp;</h2>

Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office&nbsp;is currently overseeing the probe and looking at the possible angle of Thomas killing the baby knowingly,&nbsp;

“We acknowledge the gruesome nature of this tragedy and our hearts are weighted by the loss of this precious life,"&nbsp;Jackson county prosecuting attorney Jean Peters Baker said in a statement.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/infant-found-in-shopping-bag-by-dog-walker-in-londons-newham-area-681616">Also read |&nbsp;Infant found in shopping bag by dog walker in London's Newham area</a>

“We trust the criminal justice system to respond appropriately to these awful circumstances," he added.&nbsp;

Last month, a baby was found in a shopping bag, abandoned at the intersection of Greenway and High Street South in Newham, East London. An individual walking their dog spotted the baby and informed the authorities.&nbsp;

The infant&nbsp;wrapped in a towel within the bag was then admitted to a hospital where it received treatment.&nbsp;The hospital documents show it took nearly three hours for doctors to be able to record the baby's temperature, as she was extremely cold when she was discovered. The probe is still on to locate the baby's mother.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

An infant in the US state of Missouri died on Friday (Feb 9) after her mother mistakenly put her inside an oven for a nap, according to a report by news agency Associated Press.

An infant in the US state of Missouri died on Friday (Feb 9) after her mother mistakenly put her inside an oven for a nap, according to a report by news agency Associated Press. The accused mother, identified as Mariah Thomas of Kansas City faces "Class A felony of endangering the welfare of a child in the 1st degree, death of a child", a prosecutor informed on Saturday (Feb 10). The incident took place on Friday afternoon when police officers responded to a report of a month-old child not breathing at a house near 41st Street and Forest Avenue. The first responders, upon reaching the scene, declared the baby dead. However, detectives said the circumstances around the child’s death were suspicious enough to cause concern and they initiated an investigation. The first responders had noticed burns on the child and upon pressing Thomas, she said she was putting the child down for a nap but accidentally put her in the oven, instead of the crib. The statement did not offer an explanation about how that mistake was made. It remains unclear at this stage whether Thomas has an attorney or not. Watch | Missing 6-year-old girl Hind Rajab found dead in Gaza weeks after repeated calls for help × Probe on Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office is currently overseeing the probe and looking at the possible angle of Thomas killing the baby knowingly, “We acknowledge the gruesome nature of this tragedy and our hearts are weighted by the loss of this precious life," Jackson county prosecuting attorney Jean Peters Baker said in a statement. Also read | Infant found in shopping bag by dog walker in London's Newham area “We trust the criminal justice system to respond appropriately to these awful circumstances," he added. Last month, a baby was found in a shopping bag, abandoned at the intersection of Greenway and High Street South in Newham, East London. An individual walking their dog spotted the baby and informed the authorities. The infant wrapped in a towel within the bag was then admitted to a hospital where it received treatment. The hospital documents show it took nearly three hours for doctors to be able to record the baby's temperature, as she was extremely cold when she was discovered. The probe is still on to locate the baby's mother. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Infant girl dies in Kansas City after mother mistakenly puts her in oven instead of crib

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 |&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>

"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.

<h2>Who is MS Swaminathan?</h2>

Swaminathan was an Indian agronomist, agricultural scientist, plant geneticist, administrator, and humanitarian.&nbsp;

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;

<h2>A Saviour</h2>

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;

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>

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;

<h2>Awards and honours</h2>

Swaminathan who is due to be awarded the Bharat Ratna posthumous, has been the recipient of numerous awards and honours.&nbsp;

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.

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.

(With inputs from agencies)

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

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.

<h2>How the tragedy unfolded</h2>

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&nbsp;was started deliberately.

Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer described the search for remains as "gruesome," characterising it as a recovery operation.

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>

"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.

<h2>What about the child that was shot?</h2>

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 |&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>

"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.

<h2>Officers injured</h2>

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.&nbsp;

"... 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.

(With inputs from agencies)

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

At least four people have died in Haldwani. Rioters are targeting policemen. The government has issued a shoot-at-sight order. What's happening in Uttarakhand's Haldwani?

Haldwani violence: What's happening in Haldwani? Why did govt issue shoot-at-sight order?

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.

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Statement <a href="https://t.co/4Fc5XPnjyD">pic.twitter.com/4Fc5XPnjyD</a>
— 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>Why does a roaming bill matter?</h2>

The roaming bill worth thousands of pounds was racked up on Matheson's official device — to be paid from taxpayer money.

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>

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.

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.

<h2>Humza Yousaf faces criticism</h2>

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 |&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>

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&nbsp;Baillie.

"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.

"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

<h2>Parliamentary probe</h2>

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.

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

Tensions between India & Maldives are soaring. Maldives elected a new pro-China President. Beijing pledged more funding for the Island nation. However, the IMF is raising concerns. Is Maldives falling under the Chinese debt trap? Watch this video to find out.

Is Maldives falling under the Chinese debt trap? Here's what the IMF has to say

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.

<h2>The lawsuit</h2>

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 |&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>

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.

<h2>Google maintains innocence</h2>

Despite consenting to the settlement, Google continues to deny any wrongdoing, and contends that there is no evidence of data misuse.&nbsp;

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 |&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>

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 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

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.

<h2>Second Indian President to ride the metro</h2>

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."

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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… <a href="https://t.co/ECCk8HtI2K">pic.twitter.com/ECCk8HtI2K</a>
— 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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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>

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:

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<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>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1755125683229950419?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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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;

<h2>World-class Metro</h2>

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.&nbsp;

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>

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)

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

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