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Suspect Was in Apparent Mental Health Crisis During Attack on Sam Altman’s House
The San Francisco Public Defender’s office said 20-year-old Daniel Moreno-Gama was in the midst of acute mental illness when he attacked the OpenAI CEO’s home and offices, and was “overcharged” by local and national authorities.
Wynwood business district employee accused of corruption
The former interim director of the Wynwood Business Improvement District is facing more than two dozen counts of grand theft and a charge of organized fraud.
Ex-interim executive director of Wynwood Business Improvement District accused of theft
The former interim director of the Wynwood Business Improvement District is facing theft charges, authorities said.
Olympia couple charged after $10,000 health department check mailed to wrong address, cashed
Chargers Daily Links: Tuesday Open Thread
Your source for all Chargers and NFL news from around the web.
I Feel So Sorry for My A.I. Sunglasses
Plenty of people hate Mark Zuckerberg’s superintelligent, supercharged spectacles. I was ready to hate them, too.
Southcoast Health recognizes team for patient discharge support
Marylouise Gamache and the EOHHS Complex Discharge Support Team received the Southcoast Health Hero for Health Award.
Hollister man charged after business break-in investigation
HALIFAX COUNTY, N.C. — A Hollister man is facing multiple charges following a break-in at a local business earlier this year.According to the Halifax County She
Harvey Weinstein is going on trial again in a New York rape case
Harvey Weinstein is going on trial again on a rape charge in New York City, after years of #MeToo infamy, legal peril and prison | KCBS All News 106.9FM and 740AM
Harvey Weinstein is going on trial again in a New York rape case
Harvey Weinstein is going on trial again on a rape charge in New York City, after years of #MeToo infamy, legal peril and prison | 104.1 FM KMOX
WECT INVESTIGATES: Hampstead business owner faces felony charge, state investigation
A Hampstead pool contractor faces a felony charge after accusations of taking customers' money and not finishing projects.
Altman Molotov attack suspect had an 'anti-AI' doc: feds
Suspect Daniel Moreno-Gama is now facing federal charges in addition to state charges in connection with the Friday attack on Sam Altman's home.
Scientists Capture Hidden Electron Patterns Inside Quantum Materials
A new imaging technique uncovers how electronic patterns in quantum materials evolve unevenly across space and temperature.
Suspect in Molotov attack on Sam Altman linked to AI Discord
Authorities in San Francisco booked the suspect on Friday, and is facing several charges. Including arson of an inhabited structure or property.
Columbus Aviators coach, ex-NFL player Ted Ginn Jr. arrested, charged for DUI in Texas
The Aviators are set to play the Dallas Renegades on Sunday, with the team saying that offensive coordinator Todd Haley will step in for that game.
Markquese Bell arrested, Cowboys safety facing drug possession charges
Cowboys safety Markquese Bell was arrested on both felony and misdemeanor drug charges. Here's what to know about his arrest.
Local man accused in sports ticket scam
Robert Cheevers, 57, was charged with larceny over $1,200 by single scheme.
Victory essential for Wales in Six Nations against Scotland today
Head coach Sean Lynn is under pressure to deliver a win in his second campaign in charge of Wales.
How mental health court works and who qualifies
After an 8-hour standoff, a 28-year-old man faces charges as his mother seeks civil commitment and his missed mental health court appearance comes to light.
Trump Moves Top Aide James Blair to Political Operation Ahead of Midterms
Mr. Blair will “lead the charge from the outside,” the president said on social media. The move comes as Republicans are bracing for a potentially difficult November election.
Trump Moves Top Aide James Blair to Political Operation Ahead of Midterm
Mr. Blair will “lead the charge from the outside,” the president said on social media. The move comes as Republicans are bracing for a potentially difficult November election.
Molotov cocktail thrown at Sam Altman's $27 million home
The San Francisco Police Department said a 20-year-old suspect is in custody and charges are pending. OpenAI praised the police's quick response.
The week that supercharged MAGA media feuds over the Iran war
The right-wing media ecosystem that has long served as a useful bullhorn for President Donald Trump unraveled into disarray this week, as deepening fears over his management of the war — and fragile ceasefire — with Iran spilled into public infighting among some of his most prominent allies.
Make Your MacBook Battery Last Longer With This Setting
If you own a MacBook and work from home, it's easy to have your laptop plugged in for hours on end without thinking about the long-term battery life implications. Fortunately, Apple recently added a setting that lets you cap how high your Mac's battery charges, and if you own an iPhone that was released in the last few years, you may already be familiar with it.
FBI Extracts Suspect’s Deleted Signal Messages Saved in iPhone Notification Database
The case was the first time authorities charged people for alleged “Antifa” activities after President Trump designated the umbrella term a terrorist organization.
Judges keep knocking down weak DC gun cases brought by Jeanine Pirro’s office
The Trump White House touted its surge of National Guard members to Washington, DC, last summer as the way to put more dangerous perpetrators in the nation’s capital behind bars. But in nearly a dozen criminal cases since the surge began, people who were found to be carrying weapons and charged in federal court have walked free.
Sean 'Diddy' Combs' lawyers appeal his conviction with First Amendment argument
Sean “Diddy” Combs’ lawyers are poised to try to persuade federal appeals court judges that the hip-hop mogul was treated unfairly at a trial last year that sent him to prison on prostitution-related charges | KNX News 97.1 FM
Sean 'Diddy' Combs' lawyers appeal his conviction with First Amendment argument
Sean “Diddy” Combs’ lawyers are poised to try to persuade federal appeals court judges that the hip-hop mogul was treated unfairly at a trial last year that sent him to prison on prostitution-related charges | KYW Newsradio
No Charges for Wisconsin Mayor Who Removed Ballot Drop Box in 2024
A special prosecutor said a review of the incident found there was not sufficient evidence to charge Doug Diny, the mayor of Wausau.
Former Fort Bragg employee charged with leaking classified information to journalist
A North Carolina woman has been charged with sharing classified defense information to a journalist following her work as a civilian operational support technician at Fort Bragg, a large US Army base in the state.
Southwest Airlines limits passengers to 1 portable charger per person over fire concerns
Southwest Airlines rolls out stricter portable charger rules, limiting passengers to one device per person amid rising lithium battery fire concerns.
Former sports radio host Mike Missanelli arrested for assault, officials say
Former long-time sports radio host Mike Missanelli was charged with simple assault and harassment after slapping his fiancé, court documents say.
Review determines no charges for Green Bay mayor over recording devices
The devices, in place in 2021 and 2022, were located outside the City Council chambers and the mayor’s office.
Review determines no charges for Green Bay mayor over recording devices
The devices, in place in 2021 and 2022, were located outside the City Council chambers and the mayor’s office.
Tesla’s new Supercharger for Business tool reveals $940,000 all-in price
Tesla's new Supercharger for Business configurator pegs an 8-stall V4 site at $940,000 all-in, with 4–7 year payback depending on location.
Wausau Mayor Doug Diny won’t face charges over ballot drop box removal case
The review determined that the box didn’t meet the state’s definition of “ballot box” in part because it was sealed and didn’t have any ballots in it.
Moment of Science: New research finds corona discharges glowing on treetops during storms
A missing piece of storm science has now been found! Dan Smith shows how the tops of trees can "glow with the show" as clouds rage overhead. 🌩️🌲
Satechi’s 3-in-1 travel stand now wirelessly charges your phone at 25W
The upgraded version of Satechi’s folding multi-device charger gets a design update and support for Qi2.2.
Man arrested for business arson and burglary in Lynchburg
Donald Collier is charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of ammunition by a convicted felon, arson, burglary, and grand larceny.
Scientists just uncovered the secret behind nature’s “proton highway”
Scientists have zoomed in on how phosphoric acid moves electrical charges so efficiently in both biology and technology. By freezing a key molecular pair to extremely low temperatures, they found it forms just one stable structure—contrary to predictions. This structure relies on a specific hydrogen-bond network that may be universal in similar systems. The discovery helps explain how protons travel so quickly and could inspire better energy materials.
Two charged with stealing appliances from Wilkes-Barre Township business
WILKES-BARRE TWP. — Two men from New York City were apprehended by Wilkes-Barre Township police burglarizing a business and stealing appliances early Monday morning.
Lil Nas X granted mental health diversion that could lead to dropped charges in police assault case
A judge said the charges could be dismissed if the Grammy-winning artist completes a mental health diversion program and doesn't break the law for the next two years.
Lil Nas X enters a mental health program intended to lead to dropped charges of attacking police
A judge has allowed Lil Nas X to enter a mental health diversion program intended to lead to the dismissal of charges of attacking Los Angeles police officers.
Lil Nas X enters a mental health program intended to lead to dropped charges of attacking police
A judge has allowed Lil Nas X to enter a mental health diversion program that could lead to the dismissal of charges against him.
Lil Nas X enters a mental health program intended to lead to dropped charges of attacking police
a e n bipolar-disorder courts indictments hip-hop-and-rap general-news mental-health law-enforcement assault u-s-news entertainment | Talk 1370
MNUFC Provides an Update Regarding the Health of James Rodríguez
James discharged from hospital, returned to training
Former Alabama sports anchor Mike Raita arrested following investigation into International Motorsports Hall of Fame
TALLADEGA, Ala. (WIAT) — A longtime sports anchor who was a regular presence in Alabama sports for decades has been arrested and charged with using his position on a local board for personal gain. …
Lil Nas X Granted Mental Health Diversion in LAPD Battery Case
Lil Nas X had will see his felony police battery charges dismissed if he completes a two-year mental health diversion program, a judge said Monday.
How fuel surcharges are squeezing small business margins
Rising fuel costs are hitting small businesses with a new wave of shipping expenses, as major carriers pass along higher diesel prices through surcharges many owners say feel like “tariffs 2.0,” The Wall Street Journal writes. FedEx and UPS have pushed fuel surcharges above 26%, while diesel prices have surged sharply in recent weeks, driving […]
Scientists Found ‘Supergenes’ That Turbo-Charge Evolution
It usually takes millions of years for new species to evolve, but not for fish in one African lake.
‘GMA’: Melissa Gilbert Fiercely Defends Timothy Busfield Through Tears
Busfield awaits trial on charges of sexual abuse against minors.
‘GMA’: Melissa Gilbert Fiercely Defends Timothy Busfield Through Tears
Busfield awaits trial on charges of sexual abuse against minors.
‘GMA’: Melissa Gilbert Fiercely Defends Timothy Busfield Through Tears
Busfield awaits trial on charges of sexual abuse against minors.
UEFA confirm referee team for Arsenal’s game at Sporting
Arsenal now know who will take charge of their Champions League quarter-final first leg in Lisbon, with UEFA confirming an all-German officiating team for the meeting with Sporting.Photo by Julian Fin...
We stress tested 22 USB chargers to find the best for phones, laptops, travel and more
These are the best USB chargers in the US to keep devices juiced up quickly and safely for all your tech needs
Microsoft calls Copilot ‘entertainment only’ while charging $30 a month for it
Microsoft's Copilot Terms of Use label it "for entertainment purposes only", yet the company charges up to $30/user/month and has spent $80bn on AI. Only 3.3% of users are paying.
Why more small businesses are adding credit card surcharges — and what it means for your wallet
They're paying massive processing fees for card transactions. Often, you’ll end up footing the bill.
Mars dust storms are sparking electricity and rewriting the planet’s chemistry
Mars may look like a quiet, dusty world, but it’s actually buzzing with hidden electrical activity. Powerful dust storms and swirling dust devils generate static electricity strong enough to spark faint glowing discharges across the planet, triggering chemical reactions that reshape its surface and atmosphere. Scientists have now shown that these tiny lightning-like events can create a surprising mix of chemicals—including chlorine compounds and carbonates—and even leave behind distinct isotopic “fingerprints.”
Next Level Games wanted Link in Mario Strikers Charged
According to a developer that worked on Mario Strikers Charged, there was some consideration for having Link in Mario Strikers Charged. As a Mario game, Strikers Charged expectedly stuck with characters associated with that franchise. However, there was the possibility of bringing in that famous character from The Legend of Zelda. That tidbit was shared today by Did You Know...
Former Turnstile guitarist charged with attempted murder of bandmate’s father
A former guitarist of the Grammy-winning rock band Turnstile has been charged with attempted second-degree murder and assault after he allegedly struck the father of the group’s lead vocalist with
Former Turnstile guitarist charged with attempted murder of bandmate’s father
A former guitarist of the Grammy-winning rock band Turnstile has been charged with attempted second-degree murder and assault after he allegedly struck the father of the group’s lead vocalist with
Braves Minor League Recap: Owen Murphy strikes out 10
Excellent pitching was on tap Friday as Murphy led the charge with 10 strikeouts in 5.2 innings of work
Scientists built a quantum battery that breaks the rules of charging
Scientists have taken a major step toward futuristic energy tech by building a working prototype of a quantum battery—one that can charge, store, and release energy using the strange rules of quantum physics instead of chemistry. This tiny, laser-powered device hints at a future where energy storage is not only faster but actually improves as systems get larger, flipping the rules of conventional batteries.
Major companies adding fees, surcharges amid rising fuel costs
United Airlines and Amazon are among the corporations that increased fees this week
WA to sue Trump over national voting list, vote-by-mail restrictions
The lawsuit argues that the Constitution places states in charge of administering elections and says Trump's order violates the separation of powers.
Former Turnstile guitarist is accused of hitting an ex-bandmate's dad with his car
a e n law-enforcement assault general-news grammy-awards homicide courts crime music entertainment u-s-news | WWL
Former Turnstile guitarist is accused of hitting an ex-bandmate's dad with his car
a e n law-enforcement assault general-news grammy-awards homicide courts crime music entertainment u-s-news | NewsRadio 1080 KRLD
Former Turnstile guitarist is accused of hitting an ex-bandmate's dad with his car
a e n law-enforcement assault general-news grammy-awards homicide courts crime music entertainment u-s-news | WBEN
As fuel prices soar, United is raising bag fees
The carrier says it will charge $10 more for the first and second bags checked by passengers on flights in the U.S., Canada, Mexico and the rest of Latin America.
Fuel Surcharges Hit Small Businesses as ‘Tariffs 2.0’
Shipping costs are climbing for online sellers as carriers such as FedEx and UPS pass along the rising price of diesel.
Jim Bob Duggar scolds son Joseph for ‘terrible decisions’ in jailhouse email: ‘Pray that God would have mercy on you’
'19 Kids and Counting' star Jim Bob Duggar had some advice for Joseph, his second son to be charged with a sexual crime related to children: "You have made some terrible decisions, but God has already forgiven you if you have asked him.'
NHS rehabilitation care staff shortage fails stroke patients, say health leaders
People receive rehab only three to four days a week in hospital – and one to two days once they are discharged, data suggests
Justice Department announces federal charges in Southern California health care, hospice fraud investigation
Acting U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli said the individuals are accused of running fraudulent hospice care facilities that billed Medicare by using people without terminal illnesses as beneficiaries.
Trump fires Attorney General Pam Bondi after criticism over Epstein docs: reports
Trump fired Attorney General Pam Bondi after controversies over withholding Jeffrey Epstein documents and the dismissal of charges against Democrats.
Husband charged with murder in killing of Coral Springs Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen
He faces 2 charges, including premeditated murder, and is being held without bond.
LA Chargers help high school athletes learn lifesaving CPR
More than 250 high school student-athletes from across the Los Angeles Unified School District spent a day learning about heart health alongside Los Angeles Chargers players.Students learned hands-only CPR, met Chargers players Elijah Molden and RJ Mickens in UCLA Health Sports Performance Training, Powered by Exos, and enjoyed lunch on the patio at Huddle for Heart Health, held March 19 at The Bolt, the Chargers’ official practice facility in El Segundo. RJ Mickens, left, and Elijah Molden joined more than 250 LAUSD high school students at the Huddle for Heart Health event. (Photo courtesy of Joaquin Torre/Los Angeles Chargers) Along with learning CPR techniques, students practiced performance training on the LA Chargers practice field in El Segundo. (Photo courtesy of Joaquin Torre/Los Angeles Chargers) LA Chargers defensive back RJ Mickens visits with high school students at the Huddle for Heart Health event. (Photo courtesy of Joaquin Torre/Los Angeles Chargers) The event was presented by UCLA Health, the American Heart Association, the Los Angeles Chargers and LAUSD.Hands-only CPR is a lifesaving skill, said David Sato, MD, board president of the American Heart Association Los Angeles.“We save more lives when we work together,” said Dr. Sato. “This collaboration with UCLA Health and the Los Angeles Chargers to teach students how to perform hands-only CPR helps ensure more families in Los Angeles have someone ready to act in a cardiac emergency when seconds count.”Hands-only CPR is a lifesaving procedure for cardiac emergencies that doesn’t involve rescue breaths. It involves pressing hard and fast in the center of the chest of a teen or adult who has collapsed. Pressing can be done to the beat of the Bee Gee’s hit “Stayin' Alive, which, at 100 beats per minute, is the minimum rate at which to push during hands-only CPR, according to the American Heart Association. LA Chargers defensive back Elijah Molden, standing, helps high school students learn CPR skills. (Photo courtesy of Joaquin Torre/Los Angeles Chargers) Most cardiac arrests that don’t happen in the hospital happen at home, and hands-only CPR is as effective as CPR with breaths in the first minutes following a cardiac emergency.
Yomiuri: SBI Holdings Enter Alliance with Real Estate Firm to Turbocharge Entertainment IP
Major Japanese online brokerage SBI Holdings Inc. has entered a capital and business alliance with Tokyu Fudosan Holdings Corp. -- a major real estate firm -- to expand their businesses related to intellectual property in entertainment, such as video games, music and manga.
Friend of ex-NYC Mayor Eric Adams indicted on health care fraud charges
A grand jury in a Manhattan federal court on Wednesday charged a friend of former New York City Mayor Eric Adams for his alleged involvement in a fraud scheme that cost medical insurance programs t…
Longtime Friend of Eric Adams Is Indicted on Health Care Fraud Charges
U.S. prosecutors charged that Zhan Petrosyants, known as Johnny, submitted millions of dollars in false health care claims. He and his twin brother are close associates of Mr. Adams.
Megan Thee Stallion Misses Moulin Rouge Shows Hospitalization, Sets Return
The Grammy Award-winning rapper was hospitalized on Tuesday night and "has since been treated, discharged and is now resting," her rep shared with The Hollywood Reporter.
Tiger Woods Says He's 'Stepping Away' to Focus on His Health
Tiger Woods is breaking his silence after being arrested and charged with driving under the influence following a crash in Florida where he allegedly clipped a vehicle’s trailer and flipped his SUV. “I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health,” he said. Woods allegedly had two opioid pain pills in his pocket, identified as hydrocodone, according to the arresting officer’s newly released affidavit. NBC’s Jesse Kirsch reports for TODAY.
Caroline County business owner among arrests in narcotics investigation
The owner of a pet supply store in Caroline County is facing multiple drug charges following a narcotics investigation that authorities say is part of a broader crackdown on methamphetamine in the …
Tiger Woods steps away from golf to focus on his health
Tiger Woods announced he is stepping away from golf to seek treatment and focus on his health, following a past DUI charge.
Amazon is offering up to 50 percent off chargers from Anker and others for its Big Spring Sale
You only have a few hours left to save.
Schumer had a plan to win back the Senate, but some Democrats aren't on board
Democrats are fighting over whether the party's traditional playbook still works in a country that elected Donald Trump for a second time — and whether leaders like Schumer should remain in charge.
Back to Business Program helps Quynh’s Pharmacy continue serving Little Saigon community
Quynh’s Pharmacy is a fixture in Little Saigon. The owner, Mary Bui, is also a fixture within the pharmacy, having worked there for three decades. When vandals broke the glass entry door and both security gates, Bui faced a steep bill to repair the damages. “They charged over $6,000,” she explained. “We had to do […]
Price Hike or Discount? Nintendo's Changes to Physical and Digital Game Pricing Have Analysts Split, Too
Nintendo games are about to get more expensive. Or less. Depending on whether or not you want a physical copy, and how you read its recent decision to charge different prices for physical and digital games in the U.S. What's really going on? As usual, I have turned to a panel of industry experts to explain.
Scientists turn MXene into tiny nanoscrolls that supercharge batteries and sensors
Scientists have transformed a groundbreaking 2D nanomaterial called MXene into an even more powerful 1D form—tiny scroll-like tubes that are incredibly thin yet highly conductive. By rolling flat sheets into hollow nanoscrolls, they’ve created structures that act like fast “highways” for ions, boosting performance in batteries, sensors, and wearable electronics.
Fresh Food Distributors Add Surcharges as Fuel Costs Rise
Delivering salmon, fruits and other perishable foods has become more expensive as the war with Iran pushes up diesel prices.
Best charger deal: Pick up this Anker Nano charger for its lowest price yet in Amazon's spring sale
It features fast charging and Care Mode for better battery health.
San Marcos arson killing suspect got mental health diversion plan instead of jail
Luis Alvarado, 33, was arrested on charges of murder and arson after the midnight fire in the 900 block of Lacebark Street.
Naked man breaks into Bend business, faces multiple charges
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- A 43-year-old man was arrested Saturday night after police say he broke into a business and smeared feces in two areas of the building. Jajay Allen Findley was identified as the suspect and was taken into custody. Officers responded to the location after a caller reported a naked man had forced
Fuel surcharges from war in Iran harm Minneapolis small business recovery
On top of business challenges, including losing $250,000 during Operation Metro Surge, Bahman Razmpour of Sabores has had trouble tracking his siblings who live in Iran.
2 men facing charges after business trailer, tools stolen in Dundee
Jacksonville business owner arrested by ALE
A Jacksonville business owner is facing felony charges following a multi-month investigation by the N.C. Alcohol Law Enforcement Division.
THE POLICY PROGNOSIS | Health Supply Chains Are Understudied, Limiting Focus on Patients
Previously, this column has scrutinized the lack of accountability in hospital systems, health insurance companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and their negotiators for raising U.S. health care costs. However, far more financial incentives exist to overcharge consumers for medications and services, and scarcely discussed negotiators may be taking revenues at every stage of...
Navigating the social media minefield
Scientists and researchers seeking to announce promising findings, exchange ideas or contribute to policy discussions outside of academic circles may find social media an expedient tool.But increasingly, scientists and other professionals are discovering that online platforms can be a double-edged sword: while sharing their work and expertise is crucial for visibility and meeting funder expectations, it also exposes them to baseless criticism and even accusations of spreading false information."It is getting harder and harder for scientists, and researchers in general, to convey their findings without facing attacks on their legitimacy and accuracy of their research," says Valère Ndior, a professor of public law at the University of Western Brittany in Brest, France, who has spent more than a decade studying misinformation on social media. Researchers attempting to challenge deceptive online information may themselves be accused of political bias or not being objective in their research, he explains, adding that some scientists disengage because they feel overwhelmed and unable to sustain meaningful dialogue. "It is quite sad to see in some instances that researchers end up leaving social media altogether because they feel like the pressure is getting too intense or feel threatened," he says.Ndior, a past president of the Francophone Network of International Law, is also involved in European efforts to make science and research findings more accessible to the public. As an ambassador for the Science Comes to Town (SCTT) project, he has participated in recent discussions on public perceptions of science and online misinformation. The European Commission-funded initiative connects Brest and two other cities — Kiel in Germany and Split in Croatia — and aims to strengthen ties between communities, universities and research institutions to promote science awareness and cooperation across Europe.Coordinated campaigns around contentious topicsNdior draws a clear distinction between critical thinking and thoughtless criticism. Yet he sees online discussions being increasingly shaped by suspicious behaviour and coordinated information campaigns — including "raids" aimed at dominating discussions and "astroturfing," where small groups act as larger movements to sway debates. Tracking these patterns has become harder because some platforms have restricted data or charge for it, despite provisions of the European Union's Digital Securities Act aimed at ensuring researchers can have access to such data. According to Ndior, "platforms became more reluctant from the moment access to data became a legal requirement rather than a voluntary initiative."Unfounded claims and scepticism about science existed long before Internet chat groups. But the noticeable rise in online hostility has intensified around contentious topics, such as the coronavirus pandemic and climate change, alongside the weakening of gatekeepers to moderate content.For Ndior, dubious claims about pandemic countermeasures and vaccine safety highlighted the struggle between "balancing freedom of expression and the protection of public health and order." Efforts to remove social media content deemed false or risky for public health triggered accusations of censorship and the silencing of legitimate discussion, and in some cases, legal challenges.Concerns about attacks on the credibility of scientists and researchers have generated a flurry of academic papers in recent years and prompted professional communities to address ways to counter online attacks. Such unease extends to the generation that has grown up with digital media. Ndior points out that his students, some of whom research artificial intelligence regulation, hate speech, online surveillance and other controversial topics, hesitate to share their work or viewpoints online. "Many of them don't want to expose themselves too much because they don't feel ready to be faced with the backlash of other people criticising their research," he explains.Safer harbours for engagementLegal challenges against false or defamatory posts are not necessarily a solution — especially given the trans-jurisdictional nature of the Internet. Lawsuits also take time and money, and if they fail, can be counterproductive. Instead, Ndior advises scientists and researchers to be selective in how and where they communicate. Professional online platforms and moderated discussion spaces offer a better environment for engagement. He also highlights the value of more traditional formats, such as radio interviews and in-person discussions at schools, libraries and science fairs, which encourage dialogue with the public. "Personal contact makes a big difference," he says, while acknowledging that these approaches lack the global reach of social media.Ndior’s interest in digital law and online misinformation stems from his time as a doctoral student in international law in the early days of social media. He began analysing posts from governments and heads of state to determine if they could be considered official and thus used as evidence in litigation. His work attracted media attention and led to conference and speaking invitations. "This was not part of my plan," he says, "but this is what happens as a researcher — your interest is sparked by a certain event or phenomenon, and it suddenly becomes your focus."Ndior believes SCTT provides "a double benefit" for researchers, enabling them to connect with peers and interact with the public. "There is a wide community of people who are not in academia who are critical thinkers looking for opportunities to ask questions, to get information and contribute their ideas,” he says. "I really value that kind of feedback."Science|Business, which connects policymakers, academics and industry through its news reporting, analysis and events, is an SCTT partner.
Navigating the social media minefield
Scientists and researchers seeking to announce promising findings, exchange ideas or contribute to policy discussions outside of academic circles may find social media an expedient tool.But increasingly, scientists and other professionals are discovering that online platforms can be a double-edged sword: while sharing their work and expertise is crucial for visibility and meeting funder expectations, it also exposes them to baseless criticism and even accusations of spreading false information."It is getting harder and harder for scientists, and researchers in general, to convey their findings without facing attacks on their legitimacy and accuracy of their research," says Valère Ndior, a professor of public law at the University of Western Brittany in Brest, France, who has spent more than a decade studying misinformation on social media. Researchers attempting to challenge deceptive online information may themselves be accused of political bias or not being objective in their research, he explains, adding that some scientists disengage because they feel overwhelmed and unable to sustain meaningful dialogue. "It is quite sad to see in some instances that researchers end up leaving social media altogether because they feel like the pressure is getting too intense or feel threatened," he says.Ndior, a past president of the Francophone Network of International Law, is also involved in European efforts to make science and research findings more accessible to the public. As an ambassador for the Science Comes to Town (SCTT) project, he has participated in recent discussions on public perceptions of science and online misinformation. The European Commission-funded initiative connects Brest and two other cities — Kiel in Germany and Split in Croatia — and aims to strengthen ties between communities, universities and research institutions to promote science awareness and cooperation across Europe.Coordinated campaigns around contentious topicsNdior draws a clear distinction between critical thinking and thoughtless criticism. Yet he sees online discussions being increasingly shaped by suspicious behaviour and coordinated information campaigns — including "raids" aimed at dominating discussions and "astroturfing," where small groups act as larger movements to sway debates. Tracking these patterns has become harder because some platforms have restricted data or charge for it, despite provisions of the European Union's Digital Securities Act aimed at ensuring researchers can have access to such data. According to Ndior, "platforms became more reluctant from the moment access to data became a legal requirement rather than a voluntary initiative."Unfounded claims and scepticism about science existed long before Internet chat groups. But the noticeable rise in online hostility has intensified around contentious topics, such as the coronavirus pandemic and climate change, alongside the weakening of gatekeepers to moderate content.For Ndior, dubious claims about pandemic countermeasures and vaccine safety highlighted the struggle between "balancing freedom of expression and the protection of public health and order." Efforts to remove social media content deemed false or risky for public health triggered accusations of censorship and the silencing of legitimate discussion, and in some cases, legal challenges.Concerns about attacks on the credibility of scientists and researchers have generated a flurry of academic papers in recent years and prompted professional communities to address ways to counter online attacks. Such unease extends to the generation that has grown up with digital media. Ndior points out that his students, some of whom research artificial intelligence regulation, hate speech, online surveillance and other controversial topics, hesitate to share their work or viewpoints online. "Many of them don't want to expose themselves too much because they don't feel ready to be faced with the backlash of other people criticising their research," he explains.Safer harbours for engagementLegal challenges against false or defamatory posts are not necessarily a solution — especially given the trans-jurisdictional nature of the Internet. Lawsuits also take time and money, and if they fail, can be counterproductive. Instead, Ndior advises scientists and researchers to be selective in how and where they communicate. Professional online platforms and moderated discussion spaces offer a better environment for engagement. He also highlights the value of more traditional formats, such as radio interviews and in-person discussions at schools, libraries and science fairs, which encourage dialogue with the public. "Personal contact makes a big difference," he says, while acknowledging that these approaches lack the global reach of social media.Ndior’s interest in digital law and online misinformation stems from his time as a doctoral student in international law in the early days of social media. He began analysing posts from governments and heads of state to determine if they could be considered official and thus used as evidence in litigation. His work attracted media attention and led to conference and speaking invitations. "This was not part of my plan," he says, "but this is what happens as a researcher — your interest is sparked by a certain event or phenomenon, and it suddenly becomes your focus."Ndior believes SCTT provides "a double benefit" for researchers, enabling them to connect with peers and interact with the public. "There is a wide community of people who are not in academia who are critical thinkers looking for opportunities to ask questions, to get information and contribute their ideas,” he says. "I really value that kind of feedback."Science|Business, which connects policymakers, academics and industry through its news reporting, analysis and events, is an SCTT partner.