What’s got hackers saying ‘MillionsandMe’...23andMe. Yesterday, the genetic testing company confirmed hackers stole the personal information of about 6.9 million people — roughly half of 23andMe’s total customers. The company's findings come after it launched an investigation in October, when the data breach allegedly happened. 23andMe said hackers used compromised passwords to tap into customers’ Family Tree and DNA Relatives profiles. They got access to DNA info, ZIP codes, birth years, and family names, publishing some of the information online. The stolen info could help other hackers commit identity theft. Still, 23andMe says it hasn't "learned of any reports of inappropriate use of the data."
What whacked a mole…The US. Yesterday, the Justice Department charged a former US diplomat for working as a secret agent for Cuba. Court documents allege 73-year-old Manuel Rocha worked for the State Department for more than two decades, including as an ambassador to Bolivia. More recently, he worked as an adviser from 2006 to 2012 for military officials overseeing relations with Latin American countries. Turns out, he was allegedly using those roles to funnel classified info to Cuba, though the court documents don’t say what exactly he spilled. Now, Rocha faces three charges, including conspiring to act as a foreign government agent without notifying the DOJ. Attorney General Merrick Garland said this is “one of the highest-reaching and longest-lasting infiltrations of the United States government by a foreign agent.”
Who’s in court…Jonathan Majors. Yesterday, the actor’s criminal domestic violence trial got underway with opening arguments. Prosecutors accused the “Creed III” star of manipulating, threatening, and assaulting his ex-girlfriend Grace Jabbari. The alleged assault took place earlier this year after Jabbari said she saw a text from another woman on Majors’ phone. A prosecutor said he showed “no hesitation” in using physical force against Jabbari, leading to a fracture in her middle finger. Majors’ lawyer painted a different picture, saying Jabbari “slapped, clawed, and scratched” Majors. The actor pleaded not guilty and potentially faces up to a year in prison. The trial is expected to last two-weeks.
What’s got a nice kick to it…Wasabi. A Japanese study found that the spicy green condiment might improve memory. After three months, the researchers found that the group of people aged 60+ who got wasabi extract at bedtime had “significant” boosts in short- and long-term memory. That’s when compared to people in the same age group who received a placebo. Researchers believe wasabi’s main active component 6-MSITC, which reduces inflammation in the area responsible for memory function, is behind the findings. “Hot Ones,” take note.
What's got gamers revving their engines...“Grand Theft Auto VI." Yesterday, the trailer for the popular video game leaked and gave fans a look at the franchise's first female protagonist. It's been ten years since the last installment of GTA dropped, and this one will be released in 2025.
Who women are fed up with…Lawmakers. 2024 is going to be interesting.
What’s one option for white elephant this year…Getting a Cameo from George Santos. |