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Big Tech accused of stonewalling European social media researchers

Big Tech accused of stonewalling European social media researchers

Summary

Researchers studying misinformation campaigns on social media platforms like TikTok have faced difficulties accessing data even though EU law requires platforms to share it with credible researchers. TikTok denied a research team’s request for data related to a Romanian political campaign, while later removing thousands of fake accounts linked to the same campaign.

Key Facts

  • TikTok content promoting Romanian politician Calin Georgescu reached 120 million views before the November 2024 election first round.
  • Georgescu won the first round with 23% of the vote but was barred from running again later.
  • A research team led by Adriana Iamnitchi requested TikTok’s API data under the EU Digital Services Act but was denied access.
  • TikTok flagged and removed over 27,000 fake accounts linked to a campaign supporting Georgescu and his party.
  • Romanian intelligence indicated Russia allegedly coordinated the online campaign boosting Georgescu.
  • Social media companies have limited or paywalled API access, making research on misinformation difficult.
  • The EU Digital Services Act aims to give verified researchers data access, but implementation problems remain.
  • Researchers warn that without adequate API data, understanding how social media spreads misinformation is harder.
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Your Dog Can’t Tell You Daycare Is Stressful—But There Are Signs

Your Dog Can’t Tell You Daycare Is Stressful—But There Are Signs

Summary

Some dogs enjoy going to daycare and show excitement by playing and making friends, while others may find it stressful and prefer to stay away. Owners can watch their dog’s behavior before, during, and after daycare to see if their pet is happy, such as eagerness to arrive, joining play quickly, and coming home tired but relaxed.

Key Facts

  • Dogs have different comfort levels with socializing at daycare.
  • Excited dogs may wag their tails, pull toward the entrance, and greet staff eagerly.
  • Dogs who enjoy daycare quickly join group play and interact with other dogs.
  • Dogs that feel comfortable can develop friendships with other daycare dogs.
  • After daycare, happy dogs usually come home relaxed and tired from activity.
  • Signs of stress include reluctance to enter, hiding, or avoiding other dogs.
  • Some dogs may do better with one-on-one time instead of group play.
  • Dog owners should watch behavior carefully to decide if daycare suits their pet.
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Southport killer ‘trying to retraumatise families from cell’, says lawyer

Southport killer ‘trying to retraumatise families from cell’, says lawyer

Summary

Axel Rudakubana, sentenced to life for murders and attempted murders in Southport, was moved from a high-security prison to a psychiatric hospital. His lawyer for the victims' families says this transfer, close to the crime’s anniversary, is causing renewed distress and may be a manipulation by Rudakubana.

Key Facts

  • Axel Rudakubana was convicted of killing three children and attempting to kill others at a dance class in July 2024.
  • He was originally held in Belmarsh prison, a Category A high-security facility.
  • Rudakubana was transferred to Broadmoor hospital, a secure psychiatric institution for dangerous offenders.
  • The transfer decision did not change his 52-year sentence.
  • The families were informed about the transfer but not given reasons for it.
  • The victims’ families’ lawyer believes Rudakubana is using the move to cause them distress again.
  • Rudakubana had previous mental health care but was not psychotic at the time of his crimes.
  • Broadmoor treats patients under strict security, but patients are held as patients, not prisoners.
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India’s education minister resigns after mass protests by Cockroach movement

India’s education minister resigns after mass protests by Cockroach movement

Summary

India’s education minister, Dharmendra Pradhan, resigned after nationwide protests led by the youth group called the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP). The protests were sparked by an exam leak scandal that affected many students, leading to demands for Pradhan’s resignation and widespread demonstrations across the country.

Key Facts

  • Dharmendra Pradhan resigned as India’s education minister following mass protests.
  • The protests were organized by a youth movement named the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP).
  • The protests started over an exam leak scandal affecting millions of students.
  • The scandal led to more than a dozen student suicides.
  • Tens of thousands of young people protested in Delhi and other major Indian cities.
  • Police used teargas and batons against protesters, injuring hundreds.
  • The Modi government initially ignored the protests but later agreed to dialogue.
  • Pradhan’s resignation was seen as a major defeat for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government.
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List of Times Trump Has Joked About Running in 2028

List of Times Trump Has Joked About Running in 2028

Summary

President Donald Trump joked at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner that he plans to run for president a fourth time. He has made similar comments about staying in office beyond two terms several times before, despite the U.S. Constitution limiting presidents to two elected terms.

Key Facts

  • At the July 24 dinner, Trump said he wants to run for president a fourth time, calling it a "scoop."
  • His remark was made as a joke, directed at journalists present.
  • Trump has repeatedly brought up the idea of serving beyond two terms in previous speeches and events.
  • The 22nd Amendment of the U.S. Constitution limits presidents to two elected terms.
  • Supporters often see Trump’s comments as humor or provocation toward the media.
  • Legal experts say Trump cannot legally run for president again under current rules.
  • Trump referenced former President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who served four terms, during a 2024 speech.
  • Trump wore a "Trump 2028" hat during the dinner, signaling possible future campaigns.
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‘Shameful’: Pentagon accused of cover-up over US military casualties in Iran war

‘Shameful’: Pentagon accused of cover-up over US military casualties in Iran war

Summary

The Pentagon has not shared detailed information about US military casualties in the ongoing Iran war, leading to accusations of hiding the true impact of the conflict. Former defense secretary Leon Panetta called this a "shameful approach," and critics say the Pentagon’s reduced transparency may be a political move before the November midterm elections.

Key Facts

  • The Pentagon has not held a press briefing on the Iran war casualties for over two months.
  • Official reports show 18 US soldiers killed and around 430 injured in the Iran war so far.
  • The Pentagon initially did not disclose casualty numbers and later posted limited updates on social media.
  • The number of troop deaths was reportedly lowered from 18 to 14 on the Pentagon’s website, explained as a "temporary data disruption."
  • Critics believe the Pentagon is deliberately withholding information to avoid public backlash.
  • Since January 2025, the Pentagon has limited press access and replaced major news outlets with media more favorable to President Trump.
  • Many news organizations left the Pentagon after new rules restricted their reporting unless approved by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
  • The ceasefire between the US and Iran recently broke down, and both sides have been conducting daily attacks.
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What’s behind Maga influencer Laura Loomer’s about-face on Ukraine?

What’s behind Maga influencer Laura Loomer’s about-face on Ukraine?

Summary

Laura Loomer, a right-wing influencer close to President Trump, recently changed her views and expressed support for Ukraine in its war with Russia. She visited Kyiv, admitted she had believed Russian propaganda before, and met with Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy.

Key Facts

  • Laura Loomer has about 2 million social media followers and her posts can influence U.S. policy.
  • She previously shared Russian propaganda and held a pro-Russian stance on Ukraine.
  • Loomer spent several days in Kyiv and experienced an air raid there.
  • She apologized for underestimating the struggles Ukrainians faced during the conflict.
  • President Zelenskyy met with Loomer privately, showing he values her new stance.
  • Loomer’s shift comes after the death of Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, a strong supporter of Ukraine.
  • Loomer has had close access to President Trump since his 2024 election campaign.
  • President Trump initially reduced support to Ukraine early in his second term but may be shifting his views as Ukraine resists Russian advances.
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‘Nobody was there for us’: mother urges Andy Burnham to reopen case of daughter killed in Texas

‘Nobody was there for us’: mother urges Andy Burnham to reopen case of daughter killed in Texas

Summary

Lucy Harrison, a 23-year-old British woman, was shot and killed in Texas during a visit to her father, Kris Harrison, who held the gun. Despite a local police investigation and a grand jury’s decision not to indict him, a UK coroner ruled that Lucy was unlawfully killed, and her mother is asking for the case to be reopened.

Key Facts

  • Lucy Harrison graduated with top honors, started a dream job, and bought a house before her death.
  • She was visiting her father in Texas over Christmas 2024 when she was shot.
  • Kris Harrison, her father, was the person holding the gun at the time.
  • Local police investigated, but the grand jury chose not to charge Kris Harrison.
  • A UK coroner later ruled that Lucy was unlawfully killed.
  • Lucy’s mother, Jane Coates, is urging UK officials to ask US authorities to reopen the case.
  • Texas has lenient gun laws, allowing owners over 21 to have guns without training or licenses.
  • Lucy had a difficult relationship with her father and was strongly against guns.
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Inside the growing vigilante movement to knock out Flock surveillance cameras

Inside the growing vigilante movement to knock out Flock surveillance cameras

Summary

A vigilante known as NoMark has been damaging automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras made by the U.S. company Flock Safety, which are used by law enforcement to scan vehicle license plates. These cameras have raised privacy concerns because they record the locations of many people without warrants, leading some individuals across the U.S. to take action by disabling or vandalizing the devices.

Key Facts

  • NoMark is a masked vigilante who has damaged more than a dozen Flock ALPR cameras.
  • Flock Safety is a U.S.-based company whose cameras are used in around 6,000 communities in nearly every U.S. state.
  • The cameras take photos of license plates and check them against large databases to help law enforcement track vehicles.
  • Critics argue these cameras enable mass surveillance without proper legal oversight, raising privacy issues.
  • Flock claims its cameras are not meant for mass surveillance and cannot track individual people.
  • Vigilantes like NoMark use methods such as taping, cutting wires, paint bombing, and obstructing the cameras.
  • Some people leave messages or symbols after damaging the cameras to express their opposition.
  • The growing backlash against Flock cameras reflects wider public concern over privacy and police surveillance.
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Maine Democrats meet to select Senate nominee to replace Graham Platner

Maine Democrats meet to select Senate nominee to replace Graham Platner

Summary

Maine Democrats are holding a nominating convention to choose their candidate for the U.S. Senate race in November. Troy Jackson is expected to win the nomination after most other candidates dropped out, following the withdrawal of Graham Platner due to a sexual assault allegation.

Key Facts

  • Graham Platner dropped out of the Senate race after a sexual assault allegation.
  • The Maine Democratic Party is selecting a new Senate nominee through a nominating convention.
  • Troy Jackson, former state Senate president, is favored to win the nomination.
  • Most delegates supporting Jackson have been elected in county meetings.
  • Prominent candidates Shenna Bellows and Nirav Shah withdrew and endorsed party unity against Republican Susan Collins.
  • Lesser-known candidates David Costello and Saundra Pelletier remain on the ballot.
  • Dan Kleban qualified but is endorsing Jackson and asked to withdraw.
  • The nominating convention voting deadline aligns with Maine election laws requiring the party to replace a candidate by late July.
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ChatGPT now has a space for sharing medical records. Should you?

ChatGPT now has a space for sharing medical records. Should you?

Summary

OpenAI has introduced Health in ChatGPT, a new feature that lets users upload their medical records and connect fitness data from Apple Health to get personalized health advice. While many people use ChatGPT for health questions, experts warn that the AI can make mistakes and should not replace real medical care.

Key Facts

  • Health in ChatGPT allows users to share lab results, medications, and fitness data for personalized health insights.
  • Around 300 million people ask ChatGPT health-related questions each week.
  • OpenAI says ChatGPT can compare new test results with past ones and help understand health trends.
  • Experts warn that ChatGPT can give wrong or dangerous medical advice and is not a substitute for doctors.
  • A Florida man sued after following ChatGPT’s advice for a serious health issue; a California teen died after using ChatGPT medical suggestions.
  • OpenAI claims ChatGPT’s health feature includes stronger privacy and encryption and that shared data won’t train AI models or be used for ads.
  • Users must decide when to trust ChatGPT and when to consult a real medical professional.
  • Privacy experts remind users that sharing health data always carries risks, especially if it’s sensitive or personal.
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As signals of a ‘massive’ US attack mount, experts skeptical it will break Iran

As signals of a ‘massive’ US attack mount, experts skeptical it will break Iran

Summary

President Donald Trump has warned of a major military escalation against Iran. The U.S. military appears to be preparing for larger-scale operations, but experts doubt that increased air strikes will force Iran to change its actions or government.

Key Facts

  • President Donald Trump has threatened a significant escalation in U.S. military action against Iran.
  • The U.S. military is showing signs of preparing for more major operations.
  • Planned attacks may target bridges, water facilities, and electricity plants in Iran.
  • Experts doubt that these intensified air strikes will cause Iran to surrender or change its government.
  • The situation involves growing tensions between the United States and Iran.
  • The impact of the strikes on Iran’s leadership and policies is uncertain.
  • Military experts are closely watching U.S. actions for further developments.
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How Volker Turk won a new term as UN rights chief despite Israel opposition

How Volker Turk won a new term as UN rights chief despite Israel opposition

Summary

Volker Turk was re-elected as the United Nations human rights chief for another four years despite objections from the United States, Russia, and Israel. He is the first person to serve two full terms in this role, which involves criticizing governments for human rights violations worldwide.

Key Facts

  • Volker Turk, an Austrian lawyer, has worked with the UN since 1999 in various roles related to refugees and human rights.
  • He has been the UN human rights chief since 2022 and is now reappointed for a second term.
  • The UN General Assembly voted 144 in favor, 10 against, and 13 abstained to reelect Turk.
  • The United States, Russia, and Israel opposed his reappointment because of his critical statements on their policies and actions.
  • Turk criticized Israel’s military actions in Gaza and Lebanon and the lack of accountability for rights abuses in Palestinian territories.
  • He condemned Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as a violation of international law.
  • Turk raised concerns about the US treatment of migrants, especially during President Trump’s administration.
  • The vote to reappoint Turk was seen as rushed, with some saying it should have waited for the next UN Secretary-General’s decision.
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Indian education minister resigns after mass protests over exam paper leaks

Indian education minister resigns after mass protests over exam paper leaks

Summary

India’s Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned after large protests over leaked exam papers. The leaks forced over two million medical exam candidates to retake tests and caused widespread anger among students and youth.

Key Facts

  • Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned on July 25, 2026.
  • The resignation came after protests demanding he take responsibility for exam paper leaks.
  • A medical entrance exam paper was leaked, affecting more than two million students.
  • Protests were held mainly by young people across India, including in New Delhi and Mumbai.
  • Police used tear gas and baton charges to disperse protesters.
  • Authorities restricted internet access and blocked metro stations to control the protests.
  • The unrest reflects broader frustration with job shortages, corruption, and government accountability.
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised strict punishment for exam fraud related to these leaks.
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‘Maybe he’s a ‌racist’: Donald Trump takes bizarre swipe at NBA great LeBron James

‘Maybe he’s a ‌racist’: Donald Trump takes bizarre swipe at NBA great LeBron James

Summary

At a White House press conference, President Donald Trump was asked who he thinks is the best basketball player between Michael Jordan and LeBron James. Trump said he prefers Jordan and called James "maybe a racist," adding that he only likes people who like him.

Key Facts

  • President Trump plays golf with Michael Jordan and called him a good person.
  • Trump suggested LeBron James might be a racist but was unsure.
  • Trump said he prefers Michael Jordan over LeBron James.
  • LeBron James has supported the candidates who ran against Trump in the last three elections.
  • James criticized Trump after the 2017 Warriors’ White House visit was withdrawn.
  • Michael Jordan won six NBA championships and was a five-time Most Valuable Player (MVP).
  • LeBron James has four NBA titles, four MVP awards, and is the NBA’s all-time leader in points and games played.
  • LeBron James plans to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers basketball team.
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Woman Thought Adoption Hadn't Affected Her—Then Therapy Changed Everything

Woman Thought Adoption Hadn't Affected Her—Then Therapy Changed Everything

Summary

Emma Ming Fuller was abandoned as a baby in China during the one-child policy era and later adopted by American parents. As an adult, she has started sharing her experiences and feelings about being a Chinese adoptee growing up in a mostly white community in the U.S.

Key Facts

  • China’s one-child policy lasted 36 years and was officially ended in 2015.
  • The policy led to many children being abandoned or adopted internationally.
  • Emma Ming Fuller was left outside a government building in China at three months old with a note showing her birth date.
  • She was cared for in an orphanage for over a year before being adopted by parents in Los Angeles in 2003.
  • Fuller grew up with loving parents but only recently realized adoption affected her deeply.
  • Therapy helped her understand how adoption influenced her emotions and relationships.
  • She created a video series called “Living Adopted” to discuss identity and challenges adoptees face as adults.
  • Her videos have connected her with other adoptees who share similar experiences.
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No, this video does not show Iran downing a US B-52 bomber

No, this video does not show Iran downing a US B-52 bomber

Summary

A video claiming to show Iran shooting down a U.S. B-52 bomber has been widely shared online. Experts and fact-checkers say the video is fake and was likely created using video game or flight simulator footage.

Key Facts

  • The video appeared on July 19, 2026, shared by a pro-Iranian social media account.
  • It shows a missile hitting and breaking apart a B-52 bomber in mid-air.
  • No credible news sources report any recent B-52 bomber being shot down.
  • Visual issues in the video include unrealistic smoke, flames, and plane destruction.
  • The camera movement and lighting also look unnatural and computer-generated.
  • Fact-checkers believe the video comes from military flight simulators or video games like DCS World or War Thunder.
  • Similar fake videos and images have circulated before during the conflict involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran.
  • The article emphasizes the importance of verifying sources before trusting such videos.
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Home Office rejects Palestinian Jerusalemite woman’s UK visa but approves husband’s

Home Office rejects Palestinian Jerusalemite woman’s UK visa but approves husband’s

Summary

A Palestinian woman from Jerusalem living in London was denied a UK visitor visa while her husband was approved to visit. The UK Home Office said it was not sure she would leave the UK after her visit, despite both applying with similar evidence and invitations.

Key Facts

  • The woman, Therese Abdallah, and her husband live mostly outside the UK but wanted to visit their son in London.
  • Therese was refused a UK visitor visa because officials doubted she would return home after her visit.
  • Her husband’s visa application, made at the same time with similar documents, was approved.
  • Palestinian Jerusalemites have special travel status; they hold Israeli and Jordanian travel documents but are not Israeli citizens.
  • Therese previously had a visa refused in 2019 due to a paperwork issue with her bank statement.
  • She has strong ties to East Jerusalem where she was born and live, including family and community, which usually supports returning home.
  • Their son Karim Abdallah has lived legally in the UK since 2019, works, and pays taxes there.
  • The Home Office said visa decisions are made case-by-case and did not comment further on this situation.
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