作者: admin

  • Charging your phone in public transport? 79% of UAE travellers risk cyber theft

    Charging your phone in public transport? 79% of UAE travellers risk cyber theft

    The UAE Cyber Security Council has issued a stark warning to the public about the dangers of using untrusted charging ports, particularly in public transport settings. According to the Council, a staggering 79% of travellers in the UAE unknowingly put their personal data at risk by charging their devices at unsecured public stations. These ports can harbor malicious software or hidden systems that exploit media transfer protocols, enabling cybercriminals to access personal data through ‘juice jacking’ attacks. The Council emphasized that such practices can lead to data theft, password breaches, or the covert installation of harmful software on mobile devices. Additionally, 68% of companies have reportedly suffered attacks originating from untrusted charging ports, resulting in significant data breaches and compromised digital infrastructure. To mitigate these risks, the Council has advised travellers to carry personal chargers, avoid public charging stations, and reject any data-transfer requests during charging. Other preventive measures include enabling two-factor authentication, using biometric login features, and regularly reviewing app permissions. The Council also highlighted the importance of verifying the safety of installed applications, as some may contain malicious software capable of enabling financial fraud or stealing sensitive information. As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance cybersecurity awareness, the UAE Cyber Security Council has launched the Cyber Pulse initiative, a weekly campaign aimed at educating the public on safe digital practices and countering cyber threats. This initiative is a key component of the UAE’s broader strategy to create a secure cyberspace, foster trust in the digital ecosystem, and ensure the safety and privacy of all users.

  • Navy intercepts two Russian ships in English Channel

    Navy intercepts two Russian ships in English Channel

    The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has reported that the Royal Navy intercepted two Russian warships, the RFN Stoikiy and the Yelnya, as they navigated through the English Channel. This incident marks the latest in a series of Russian naval activities in UK waters, raising concerns over escalating tensions. The HMS Severn, a River-class offshore patrol vessel, successfully tracked and monitored the Russian corvette and tanker as they passed through the Dover Strait. The MoD confirmed that the HMS Severn later transferred monitoring responsibilities to a NATO ally near Brittany, maintaining a vigilant presence to respond to any unexpected developments. This interception follows recent reports of the Russian spy ship Yantar using lasers to disrupt RAF pilots off the coast of Scotland, an act described by Defence Secretary John Healey as ‘deeply dangerous.’ Healey emphasized that the UK is fully aware of Russia’s actions and remains prepared to respond. He also highlighted a 30% increase in Russian vessels threatening UK waters over the past two years, attributing this to broader ‘Russian aggression’ impacting Europe. The RFN Stoikiy has previously been monitored by the Royal Navy, including in May when it was shadowed by HMS Hurworth and the 814 Naval Air Squadron. HMS Severn, commissioned in 2002, is part of the Royal Navy’s efforts to safeguard UK borders and monitor foreign warships. The MoD reiterated its commitment to defending UK waters and maintaining regional security amidst growing Russian naval activity.

  • Air India announces more Canada routes as codeshare agreement reinstated

    Air India announces more Canada routes as codeshare agreement reinstated

    Air India has officially reinstated its codeshare agreement with Air Canada, significantly enhancing travel options between India and Canada. Effective December 2, 2025, this partnership will enable passengers to book seamless journeys to multiple Canadian destinations on a single ticket. Travellers can now connect from Air India flights to ongoing Air Canada services, including routes from Vancouver to Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Montréal, and Halifax, as well as from London Heathrow (LHR) to Vancouver and Calgary. Additionally, passengers from Canada can access Indian cities such as Amritsar, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Kochi via Delhi, or Delhi and Mumbai via LHR. The agreement also offers benefits for loyalty program members, allowing them to earn points and miles on both airlines. Elite members of Air India’s Maharaja Club will enjoy priority services, extra baggage allowances, and complimentary airport lounge access on Air Canada-operated flights. Subject to regulatory approvals, the codeshare flights will be progressively made available for sale, further solidifying the strategic partnership between the two airlines.

  • Hollywood actor-comedian Eddie Murphy to bag new honour

    Hollywood actor-comedian Eddie Murphy to bag new honour

    Hollywood legend Eddie Murphy, renowned for his iconic roles in ‘Beverly Hills Cop’ and ‘Dr. Dolittle,’ is set to receive the 51st AFI Life Achievement Award. The American Film Institute (AFI) will honor Murphy at a grand tribute ceremony scheduled for April 18, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, just two weeks after his 65th birthday. This accolade places Murphy among an elite group of previous recipients, including Denzel Washington, Francis Ford Coppola, and Morgan Freeman. Notably, Murphy will become the fourth Black artist to receive this prestigious award, following Sidney Poitier, Morgan Freeman, and Denzel Washington. The AFI Life Achievement Award is bestowed annually to individuals who have significantly contributed to the cinematic arts, demonstrated enduring influence, and earned widespread recognition from critics, peers, and audiences. Kathleen Kennedy, chair of AFI’s board of trustees, praised Murphy as a ‘trailblazing force’ whose versatility and cultural impact have inspired generations. Murphy’s career began with his breakout role on ‘Saturday Night Live’ in the early 1980s, leading to a successful transition into acting with blockbuster hits like ‘Coming to America’ and ‘The Nutty Professor.’ Recently, he starred in the Netflix documentary ‘Being Eddie’ and the Amazon Prime action-comedy ‘The Pickup,’ showcasing his continued relevance in the entertainment industry.

  • Off social media: Bollywood actor Ronit Roy is going on a digital detox

    Off social media: Bollywood actor Ronit Roy is going on a digital detox

    Renowned Bollywood actor Ronit Roy, celebrated for his roles in ‘2 States’ and ‘Shootout at Wadala,’ has announced his decision to take a break from social media. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Roy revealed his intention to focus on personal growth and family priorities. He emphasized the need to step away from digital platforms to strengthen his mental and spiritual well-being. Roy expressed his desire to forge a new path for himself and his family, leaving behind old habits and embracing a transformative journey. While he did not specify the duration of his hiatus, Roy assured his fans of his eventual return once he achieves his personal goals and adopts healthier habits. The actor, known for his iconic role in the TV drama ‘Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi,’ has also turned off comments on his Instagram account, signaling his commitment to this digital detox. Roy’s decision highlights a growing trend among celebrities to prioritize mental health and personal development over social media engagement.

  • Photos: Dubai Run 2025 turns Sheikh Zayed Road into sea of blue

    Photos: Dubai Run 2025 turns Sheikh Zayed Road into sea of blue

    On Sunday, November 23, 2025, Dubai witnessed an extraordinary transformation as the annual Dubai Run turned Sheikh Zayed Road into a breathtaking sea of blue. Thousands of enthusiastic participants, dressed in blue attire, gathered to take part in this iconic event, which has become a hallmark of Dubai’s fitness and community spirit. The event, organized by the Dubai Sports Council, aimed to promote a healthy lifestyle and encourage residents to embrace physical activity. Sheikh Zayed Road, one of the city’s busiest thoroughfares, was temporarily closed to traffic, allowing runners to enjoy the scenic route amidst Dubai’s towering skyscrapers. The event featured various categories, including a 5km fun run and a 10km competitive race, catering to participants of all fitness levels. Spectators lined the streets, cheering on the runners and adding to the festive atmosphere. The Dubai Run 2025 not only highlighted the city’s commitment to health and wellness but also showcased its ability to bring people together in a celebration of unity and vitality.

  • UK navy intercepts Russian corvette and tanker as Moscow steps up naval activity

    UK navy intercepts Russian corvette and tanker as Moscow steps up naval activity

    In a significant escalation of maritime tensions, a UK patrol ship intercepted a Russian corvette and tanker as they navigated the English Channel, the UK Defense Ministry reported on Sunday. The HMS Severn shadowed the Russian vessels, the RFN Stoikiy and Yelnya, before transferring monitoring responsibilities to an unnamed NATO ally near Brittany. This incident underscores a 30% surge in Russian naval activity around UK waters over the past two years, according to official statements.

  • Bollywood actress Kriti Sanon seeks a solution to Delhi’s pollution woes

    Bollywood actress Kriti Sanon seeks a solution to Delhi’s pollution woes

    Bollywood actress Kriti Sanon, a native of Delhi, has voiced her growing concerns over the deteriorating air quality in the national capital. Speaking at a press conference for her upcoming film *Tere Ishk Mein*, Sanon emphasized the urgent need for effective measures to combat pollution, warning that the situation could reach a critical point where visibility is severely compromised. ‘It’s getting worse and worse. I’m from Delhi, and I know how it used to be. If we don’t act now, we’ll reach a stage where we won’t be able to see each other standing next to us,’ she stated. Her comments come as Delhi continues to grapple with hazardous air quality levels, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) remaining in the ‘very poor’ category, averaging 359. The Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) has tightened the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to address the crisis. Despite slight improvements, areas like Noida and ITO continue to record severe AQI levels, with smog enveloping landmarks such as India Gate and Akshardham. Sanon’s film *Tere Ishk Mein*, produced by Gulshan Kumar, T-Series, and Colour Yellow Productions, explores themes of love and vengeance, with her character Mukti entangled in a tumultuous relationship with Dhanush’s volatile Shankar. The film is set to release on November 28.

  • Fifty children escape after mass school abduction in Nigeria

    Fifty children escape after mass school abduction in Nigeria

    In a dramatic turn of events, fifty of the 315 children abducted by armed gunmen from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Niger State, Nigeria, have managed to escape and reunite with their families. The mass kidnapping, which occurred early Friday morning, has plunged the nation into a state of anguish and prompted a large-scale military-led search and rescue operation for the remaining 265 children and 12 teachers still in captivity. Pope Leo XIV expressed profound sorrow over the incident, urging Nigerian authorities to act swiftly to secure the release of the abductees. The escape of the children, described as a courageous and perilous effort, has brought a glimmer of hope to families and a nation grappling with the escalating crisis of school abductions. The incident has drawn comparisons to the infamous 2014 Chibok kidnapping, where 276 girls were taken by Boko Haram. In response to the escalating security threats, authorities in Niger, Kebbi, Katsina, Yobe, and Kwara states have ordered the closure of schools. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has postponed foreign engagements, including the G20 summit in South Africa, to address the growing security concerns. The kidnapping epidemic, driven by criminal gangs known as bandits, has become a pervasive issue in Nigeria, with ransom demands fueling the cycle of violence. Despite the outlawing of ransom payments, the practice persists, exacerbating the crisis. The recent wave of attacks has also reignited debates about religious persecution, with U.S. figures alleging targeted violence against Christians. However, the Nigerian government has dismissed these claims, emphasizing that terrorist groups target individuals indiscriminately, regardless of faith. Analysts argue that many conflicts in Nigeria are rooted in competition for resources rather than religious differences. As the search for the missing children intensifies, the nation remains on edge, grappling with the broader implications of this tragic event.

  • Al Ain Book Festival 2025 set to open Monday; over 200 events planned

    Al Ain Book Festival 2025 set to open Monday; over 200 events planned

    The highly anticipated Al Ain Book Festival 2025 is set to commence on Monday, November 24, at Al Ain Square – Hazza bin Zayed Stadium and various cultural venues across the city. Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the festival will run until November 30, offering a weeklong celebration of literature, culture, and creativity. This year’s edition boasts participation from over 220 publishers and exhibitors, showcasing more than 100,000 titles, aligning with the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre’s (ALC) mission to promote the Arabic language and foster Emirati talent. The festival’s diverse programme includes over 200 events, ranging from literary discussions and cultural dialogues to performances, heritage activities, and children’s programmes. Highlights include the fourth edition of ‘Poetry Nights: The Sung Word’ at Qasr Al Muwaiji, honouring three legendary Emirati poets, and the introduction of new initiatives like ‘Flavourful Nights’ and ‘On the Path of Knowledge, We Gather’. The festival also features an Educational Programme with scientific, theatrical, and artistic activities for children and families, as well as an expanded ‘Educational Roadshow’ targeting schools and universities. A special ceremony will celebrate the winners of the Kanz Al Jeel Award, recognising their contributions to Emirati literature. Organised by ALC under the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the festival aims to solidify Al Ain’s reputation as a national hub for literary and cultural exchange.