Day: November 6, 2024

5 Highly-Rated TV Series of the Present with Flawless 100% Ratings on Rotten Tomatoes

# 5 Current TV Series with 100% Rotten Tomatoes Ratings

As we near the conclusion of 2024, television is flourishing with a blend of eagerly awaited premieres and hidden treasures. While not every show may appeal to all viewers, certain series have garnered significant acclaim from critics and audiences alike. Among these, a few have achieved an extraordinary milestone: a flawless 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Here, we spotlight five current TV series that have reached this prestigious recognition.

### 1. **Like Water for Chocolate (HBO)**

Based on Laura Esquivel’s renowned novel, *Like Water for Chocolate* presents a visually captivating and emotionally resonant narrative set against the backdrop of the Mexican Revolution. This series follows the intertwined lives of Tita de la Garza and Pedro Múzquiz, two lovers separated by familial customs. The show explores themes of romance, cultural heritage, and defiance, with Tita employing culinary arts as a method of resisting the limitations placed upon her.

The enchanting magical realism infused in the narrative, alongside the vibrant cultural setting of Mexico City and Tlaxcala, makes this adaptation a compelling watch. The series has received accolades for its authentic portrayal of the novel’s themes and its capacity to immerse viewers in a realm where food, love, and magic coexist.

### 2. **Outer Banks (Netflix)**

*Outer Banks* has emerged as a significant cultural milestone, with Netflix recently confirming the renewal of the series for a fifth and concluding season. The plot centers around a group of teenagers, known as the Pogues, on a treasure quest brimming with intrigue and excitement. Although it might initially appear as a conventional YA drama, its engaging characters and rapid-fire narrative have cultivated a devout following.

The blend of action, romance, and mystery has propelled the series into popularity, and its unblemished Rotten Tomatoes rating signifies its knack for captivating viewers. As the final season approaches, fans are anxiously awaiting the resolution of the Pogues’ adventures.

### 3. **Lioness: Season 2 (Paramount+)**

Paramount+’s *Lioness* is a compelling espionage thriller that tracks CIA agent Joe, portrayed by Zoe Saldana, as she supervises a covert military initiative aimed at penetrating terrorist factions. Inspired by actual events, the show delves into the personal sacrifices and professional challenges faced by individuals engaged in the war on terror.

In its second season, *Lioness* maintains its trajectory of thrilling action and profound emotional layers, with Joe confronting fresh obstacles both domestically and internationally. The series’ powerful performances and gripping narrative have garnered it critical praise, marking it as a highlight in 2024.

### 4. **From: Season 3 (MGM+)**

*From* is among the most underrated series this year, with its perfect Rotten Tomatoes score serving as evidence of its excellence. Set in an enigmatic town where newcomers become ensnared and unable to escape, the series presents a haunting forest that punishes those who dare flee.

With its gripping storyline and notable performances, *From* has drawn parallels to *Lost*, particularly with Harold Perrineau (Walt’s father from *Lost*) starring as the town’s sheriff. The third season continues uncovering the town’s mysteries, keeping viewers captivated.

### 5. **Somebody Somewhere (HBO)**

In an era populated by intricate dramas and action-heavy thrillers, *Somebody Somewhere* distinguishes itself through its authenticity and emotional depth. The series chronicles Sam’s journey, played by Bridget Everett, as she tackles life in her small Kansas community. Dealing with grief and seeking belonging, Sam discovers comfort in music and among a group of misfits who, like her, feel out of place.

The show’s gentle appeal and sincere storytelling have garnered it a devoted fanbase, and its flawless Rotten Tomatoes rating indicates its ability to resonate deeply with audiences. As Sam’s narrative progresses into the third season, *Somebody Somewhere* serves as a touching reminder that the most profound tales are often the simplest.

These five series, each distinct in character, have achieved the extraordinary accomplishment of a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Whether you seek magical realism, intense drama, or heartfelt simplicity, these selections provide a little something for everyone. As the year draws to a close, they exemplify the varied and continually evolving world of television.

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“Prosecutors Report: Spa Owner Educated at Harvard Allegedly Gave Fake Botox Injections”

### Massachusetts Spa Owner Arrested for Allegedly Administering Counterfeit Botox and Falsely Claiming Medical Credentials

Rebecca Fadanelli, a 38-year-old spa owner from Stoughton, Massachusetts, has been taken into custody following a federal probe into her involvement with counterfeit Botox and skin fillers. Prosecutors accuse Fadanelli of smuggling fake cosmetic products into the U.S. and providing them to unaware customers while falsely asserting she held medical qualifications, including a degree from “Havard”

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Researchers Uncover Genetic Alteration That Has the Potential to Extend Lifespan by as Much as 30%

# Scientists Can Modify One Gene to Increase Lifespans by Up to 30%

In a revolutionary study, researchers have uncovered a method to enhance the lifespan of fruit flies by as much as 30% through the modification of a particular gene. This finding could lead to future developments in decelerating human aging and tackling age-related ailments.

## The Significance of F-actin in Aging

The essence of this finding revolves around a cellular protein known as F-actin, or filamentous actin. F-actin is an integral component of the cytoskeleton, a network of delicate and adaptable filaments that assist in preserving the shape, rigidity, and movement of cells. As aging occurs, the functions of the cytoskeleton get disrupted, resulting in the buildup of cellular debris and the emergence of age-related conditions.

In their research, published in *Nature Communications*, the scientists observed that F-actin builds up in the brain as we grow older, impairing the cell’s capacity to eliminate waste. This accumulation of waste in the brain is associated with cognitive decline and various age-related challenges. By altering the gene responsible for the production of F-actin, the researchers managed to decelerate this process in fruit flies, resulting in a notable increase in their healthy lifespan.

## Increasing Lifespan by 30%

The researchers performed their experiments on fruit flies due to the complete mapping of their genome, which simplifies the targeting of specific age-related genes. By modifying the genes within the neurons of the fruit flies, the scientists succeeded in prolonging their lifespan by up to 30%. Although this may appear to be a modest enhancement, it marks a significant advancement in aging research.

The gene modification not only prolonged the flies’ lifespans but also enhanced their overall well-being, encompassing brain functionality and the health of other organs. This indicates that the accumulation of F-actin may serve as a major contributor to age-related cognitive decline, and additional exploration of this protein could provide insights into addressing diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

## Significance for Human Aging

While the research focused on fruit flies, the outcomes might bear major significance for human aging. The researchers aspire that by further investigating the function of F-actin in aging, they can formulate new therapies to slow the aging process and extend human lifespans.

This discovery represents merely one of numerous recent advancements in the domain of aging research. Scientists are increasingly concentrating on the genetic and cellular processes that drive aging, aiming to create therapies capable of decelerating or even reversing the aging trajectory.

## Conclusion

The capability to modify a single gene and extend lifespans by up to 30% is an extraordinary accomplishment with potentially extensive impacts on human health. As researchers continue to delve into the role of F-actin and other cellular proteins in aging, we may eventually manage to greatly enhance human lifespans and uplift the quality of life for senior adults.

This discovery is an encouraging move towards grasping the genetic foundations of aging and generating new solutions to combat age-related illnesses. Although there remains considerable work ahead, the outlook for aging research appears more promising than ever.

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“New Features on the Horizon in tvOS 18.2: Postponed Apple TV Improvements Scheduled for Launch”

# Apple tvOS 18.2: An Exciting Update with Fresh Features and Improvements

The latest update, tvOS 18.2, is poised to be a major advancement for Apple TV users, following the more subdued 18.1 update. As Apple enters a new beta phase, it seems that numerous highly-anticipated features, which were first revealed at WWDC 2024, are finally arriving on the platform. This update aims to enhance the Apple TV experience with new display settings, captivating screen savers, and improved smart home capabilities. Here’s a detailed overview of what to expect from tvOS 18.2.

## **Broadened Aspect Ratio Support: A Revolutionary Change for Projectors**

A standout feature in tvOS 18.2 is the introduction of several new aspect ratio formats, including the **21:9 aspect ratio**. This format is especially advantageous for users connecting their Apple TV to projectors, delivering a more cinematic viewing experience closely akin to the widescreen format prevalent in many films.

Beyond 21:9, Apple has rolled out additional aspect ratio selections like **2.37:1, 2.39:1, 2.40:1, DCI 4K, and 32:9**. These formats accommodate various display configurations, allowing users to optimize their viewing experience tailored to their hardware specifics. Whether you are using a widescreen TV, a projector, or a bespoke home theater arrangement, these enhancements will ensure your content is visually stunning.

To utilize these new aspect ratios, users can head to the **Audio and Video settings** on their Apple TV. This expanded support is anticipated to resonate well with home theater fans and those employing projectors like the **XGIMI Horizon S Max**, which was recently reviewed by **BGR** for its capability in IMAX-standard home projection.

## **Fresh Screen Savers: A Delight for the Eyes**

Another thrilling addition in tvOS 18.2 is the launch of **new screen savers**. Known for its breathtaking aerial screen savers, Apple will broaden this in the upcoming update with four fresh categories of screen savers:

1. **Snoopy**: A whimsical inclusion featuring the adored Peanuts figure, Snoopy.
2. **TV and Movies**: This category is likely to present iconic moments from well-known films and television series.
3. **Music**: A new category that may showcase dynamic visuals synchronized with music, creating a more immersive environment for music enthusiasts.
4. **Soundscapes**: This category is expected to feature soothing, nature-inspired visuals, ideal for fostering a tranquil ambiance in your home.

While **MacRumors** has detected some of these screen savers in early versions, Apple has confirmed that the **Snoopy** and **TV and Movies** screen savers will be made available “later this year.” The **Music** and **Soundscapes** categories are fresh introductions anticipated to launch alongside the previously announced options.

These screen savers will not only enrich the visual appeal of your Apple TV during idle times but also furnish a more personalized and engaging experience.

## **Smart Home Integration: Robot Vacuums Join the Experience**

Alongside visual and display upgrades, tvOS 18.2 is set to enhance smart home integration with the **Home app**. One of the most captivating new capabilities is the compatibility of **robot vacuum cleaners** with the Home app. This means that robot vacuums will be able to participate in **automation** and **scenes**, enabling users to establish routines that incorporate their vacuum cleaners.

For instance, you could configure a scene where your robot vacuum automatically begins cleaning when you exit your home or at specified times during the day. While Apple has verified that this feature is on the way, it remains uncertain which robot vacuum models will be compatible. Nonetheless, Apple has indicated that this feature is expected to launch sometime in 2024, so more information should be forthcoming in the next few months.

## **Expected Release Date and Beta Trials**

Apple anticipates rolling out tvOS 18.2 by **early December 2024**, suggesting that the beta testing phase for this update will be relatively brief. Users can expect approximately three beta versions before the official release, allowing developers and early adopters to explore the new features and offer feedback.

With the addition of new aspect ratios, screen savers, and smart home functionalities, tvOS 18.2 is set to be a substantial update that will enrich the Apple TV experience for a diverse range of users.

## **Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead for Apple TV**

Following a somewhat muted 18.1 update, tvOS 18.2 introduces a plethora of exciting new features that are poised to make Apple TV even more flexible and enjoyable. The broadened aspect

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“Anthropic’s Haiku 3.5 Unveils Surprising Price Increase Associated with Improved ‘Intelligence’ Capabilities”

# Anthropic’s Claude 3.5 Haiku: A Novel AI Model Surpassing Its Predecessor at a Greater Expense

Anthropic, a prominent entity in the AI sector, has recently introduced its newest AI model, **Claude 3.5 Haiku**, igniting considerable debate within the AI community. This model, while being smaller than its forerunner, **Claude 3 Opus**, has surpassed it across various benchmarks. Nevertheless, this enhancement in performance comes with a higher price tag—literally. The operational cost for running Claude 3.5 Haiku is fourfold that of its predecessor, prompting concerns regarding the future pricing of AI models.

## A Change in AI Model Pricing

Generally, newer editions of AI models either retain similar pricing or become less expensive over time. Yet, Anthropic has adopted a different strategy with Claude 3.5 Haiku. The firm announced that the pricing for the new model will be **$1 per million input tokens** and **$5 per million output tokens**, in contrast to **25 cents** and **$1.25** per million input and output tokens, respectively, for the previous Claude 3 Haiku version.

What is behind this price increase? Anthropic claims that Claude 3.5 Haiku is considerably more intelligent and capable than its forerunner. In a post on X (previously Twitter), Anthropic mentioned, *”During final testing, Haiku outperformed Claude 3 Opus, our prior flagship model, on numerous benchmarks—at a fraction of the cost.”* This improvement in performance is being leveraged to justify the higher pricing.

However, this choice has not been positively received by all within the AI community. Some users, such as developer Mckay Wrigley, have voiced concerns that the increased price might deter customers seeking more cost-effective AI solutions. Wrigley remarked on X, *”As someone who adores your models and uses them daily, that last sentence

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Apple Pay Now Accessible in Paraguay: Official Launch News

# Apple Pay Launches in Paraguay: A New Chapter in Digital Payments

On November 5, 2024, Apple debuted its payment service, Apple Pay, for users in Paraguay, representing a key development in the nation’s digital payment environment. This advancement was verified by Mastercard, which revealed that patrons of prominent Paraguayan banks can now take advantage of Apple Pay for their transactions.

## The Introduction of Apple Pay in Paraguay

In a recent blog entry, Mastercard shared its excitement regarding the rollout of Apple Pay in Paraguay, emphasizing the cutting-edge technology crafted by Apple. The service is now compatible with cards from Banco Continental, Itaú, and Ueno Bank, enabling users to effortlessly merge their banking services with Apple’s Wallet app.

Federico Cofman, Mastercard’s Leader for Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay, mentioned, “We are thrilled to collaborate with our issuers to provide the ease, security, and privacy of Apple Pay to consumers in Paraguay. This launch reinforces Mastercard’s dedication to delivering innovative solutions that empower individuals to choose their preferred payment methods.” This statement highlights the increasing trend of digital payments in the area, as consumers increasingly prefer convenient and secure transaction options.

## A Move Towards Digital Evolution

Paraguay now joins the ranks of South American nations where Apple Pay is available, such as Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Colombia. This growth mirrors a wider movement of digital evolution across the continent, with more consumers and businesses adopting contactless payment technologies.

With Apple Pay, users of iPhones and Apple Watches can conduct in-store transactions simply by placing their devices near compatible credit and debit card terminals. The platform also supports online payments, allowing users to purchase through apps and websites using their iPads and Macs. Currently, Apple Pay can be accessed in over 80 countries globally, further cementing its position as a premier digital payment solution.

## Improving Payment Ease and Security

The arrival of Apple Pay in Paraguay is anticipated to boost the ease and security of financial transactions for users. The platform employs advanced encryption and tokenization technologies, guaranteeing that sensitive payment data remains protected during transactions. Such dedication to security is vital in fostering consumer confidence in digital payment systems, especially in areas where cash transactions have historically prevailed.

## Related Advancements: Tap to Pay on iPhone

Alongside the Apple Pay launch in Paraguay, Apple has recently broadened the reach of its Tap to Pay feature to various new countries, including Austria, Czech Republic, Ireland, Romania, and Sweden. This functionality permits users to convert their iPhones into sales terminals, allowing businesses to accept contactless payments directly from customers’ devices. This innovation not only simplifies the payment process but also aids small enterprises in embracing modern payment technologies.

## Conclusion

The introduction of Apple Pay in Paraguay signifies a noteworthy progression in the nation’s digital payment framework. As consumers become increasingly inclined toward convenient and secure payment methods, the presence of Apple Pay is set to revolutionize the transaction landscape in Paraguay. With support from major banks and the commitment from firms like Mastercard, the outlook for digital payments in Paraguay appears bright, paving the way for further advancements in the financial technology arena.

For additional details about Apple Pay and its functionalities, please visit

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“Galaxy Z Fold SE Quickly Sells Out as Excitement Builds for the Imminent Launch of Flip 7 and Fold 7”

**Samsung Galaxy Z Fold SE: A Revolutionary Development in the Foldable Sector**

Samsung has once more redefined the landscape of smartphone technology with the recent introduction of the **Galaxy Z Fold SE**, the slimmest and priciest foldable device it has ever launched. This Special Edition foldable is currently exclusive to South Korea and has already garnered significant attention in the tech community by selling out in both of its initial releases. Although the device has yet to be made available worldwide, its initial success in Samsung’s home market bodes well for its future.

### A Nearly Crease-Free Foldable?

One of the standout features of the Galaxy Z Fold SE is its nearly **crease-free display**—a considerable enhancement compared to earlier foldable models. The crease that typically appears at the center of the screen has long been a challenge for foldable smartphones, diminishing the overall user experience. Initial reviews indicate that the Galaxy Z Fold SE has successfully reduced this issue, making it one of the most seamless foldable displays currently available.

This advancement has the potential to establish a new benchmark for foldable devices, as the crease has been a significant drawback for consumers since the emergence of foldable phones. If Samsung can continue to enhance this technology, it may fortify its standing as the frontrunner in the foldable smartphone arena.

### Limited Availability: A Mixed Blessing?

At present, the Galaxy Z Fold SE is exclusively sold in South Korea, with speculation around a potential launch in China. This restricted availability has disappointed numerous international enthusiasts, especially in light of the device’s groundbreaking capabilities. However, this exclusivity may be part of Samsung’s strategy to evaluate customer response in its domestic market before expanding its release.

Despite the limited distribution, the Galaxy Z Fold SE has already established itself as a success. Reports indicate that **both batches of the device sold out rapidly**, including units distributed via local carriers. While it remains uncertain how many units Samsung initially manufactured, the swift sellout suggests strong demand for the ultra-slim foldable.

### A Sleek Design with a Premium Price

The **Galaxy Z Fold SE** represents not just innovation but also exemplary design. The device features an ultra-slim silhouette, declaring it the thinnest foldable Samsung has ever created. This elegant design comes with a premium price, as the Galaxy Z Fold SE is positioned at a higher price point than its predecessors, such as the Galaxy Z Fold 6.

Nonetheless, the rising popularity of the device in South Korea indicates that consumers are prepared to invest in enhanced design and state-of-the-art technology. The next question is whether Samsung will incorporate this design into its upcoming flagship foldable, the **Galaxy Z Fold 7**, anticipated to debut next year.

### What Lies Ahead for Samsung Foldables?

The triumph of the Galaxy Z Fold SE has ignited discussions about the direction of Samsung’s foldable lineup. Speculation suggests that Samsung is developing a **more affordable Galaxy Z Flip model**, which could democratize foldable technology for a larger audience. Furthermore, there are hints that Samsung may integrate the SE’s sleek design into the forthcoming **Galaxy Z Fold 7**.

Should Samsung successfully transfer the Galaxy Z Fold SE’s design to its next-generation foldables, it could revolutionize the foldable smartphone sector. Conversely, failing to do so could represent a squandered opportunity, especially given the favorable reception of the SE’s form factor.

### The Broader Perspective: Foldables in 2025 and Beyond

The foldable smartphone market remains in its infancy, but devices such as the Galaxy Z Fold SE are propelling the industry forward. As more manufacturers venture into the foldable domain, competition is expected to drive additional innovation, resulting in thinner, more robust, and more affordable foldables.

Samsung, being one of the trailblazers in this field, is well-equipped to spearhead progress. The success of the Galaxy Z Fold SE in South Korea serves as evidence of the rising interest in foldable devices, and it will be intriguing to observe how Samsung leverages this momentum in the years to come.

### In Summary

The **Samsung Galaxy Z Fold SE** marks a pivotal advancement in the progression of foldable smartphones. With its almost crease-free display, ultra-thin profile, and high-grade construction, the device has established a fresh standard for what foldables can accomplish. While its limited availability has left many global fans eager, the device’s accomplishment in South Korea implies that Samsung is on the right path.

As we anticipate the next generation of foldables, including the rumored Galaxy Z Fold 7, it is evident that Samsung’s innovations will continue to mold the future of mobile technology. Regardless of whether the Galaxy Z Fold SE becomes available in international markets, its impact on the foldable scene is indisputable.

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Suspect Detained in Relation to Snowflake Data Breach Affecting Millions

# Infostealers: How Aging Credentials Ignited a Significant Data Breach at Snowflake

In a noteworthy turn of events within the cyber threat landscape, Canadian law enforcement has apprehended Alexander Moucka (also known as Connor Moucka) related to a substantial data breach that affected numerous accounts belonging to Snowflake, a key player in cloud storage solutions. The incident, which impacted millions of users, underscores the ongoing dangers associated with infostealer malware and the enduring risks tied to compromised credentials.

## The Arrest and Inquiry

On October 30, 2024, Canadian authorities took Moucka into custody at the behest of the United States. He is alleged to have masterminded a succession of breaches aimed at Snowflake clientele, resulting in the theft of personal details from millions of individuals. This illicitly obtained data comprised sensitive information, including full names, residential addresses, telephone numbers, and partial credit card information.

The initial report of the arrest came from Bloomberg News and was subsequently validated by 404 Media. The Canada Department of Justice indicated that Moucka faced a court appearance shortly after his apprehension, with his case postponed to November 5, 2024. Given the private nature of extradition procedures, additional specifics concerning the case are not publicly available.

## The Snowflake Breach: A Chronology

The breach at Snowflake was revealed in May 2024, when Live Nation, the parent organization of Ticketmaster, announced that data housed in its Snowflake account had been compromised. This breach disclosed the personal data of 560 million Ticketmaster users, including partial credit card numbers. Subsequently, this information was listed for sale on various online marketplaces, sparking alarm over potential identity theft and fraudulent activities.

Following the security incident, Snowflake enlisted Mandiant, a cybersecurity firm owned by Google, to probe into the matter. Mandiant’s findings indicated that the breach impacted 165 Snowflake clients, with data from many of these clients ending up for auction on the internet. The affected companies faced severe implications, such as reputational harm, legal risks, and possible extortion efforts.

## The Role of Infostealers

One of the most concerning elements of the Snowflake breach is the involvement of infostealer malware. Mandiant reported that the compromised accounts were accessed by utilizing login credentials that had been pilfered by infostealers and kept in extensive logs for many years. These logs, frequently traded on clandestine forums, ultimately fell into the possession of threat actors like Moucka.

Infostealers represent a category of malware crafted to capture sensitive information from infected devices, including login credentials, browser cookies, and assorted personal data. Once gathered, this information is typically marketed on the dark web or utilized in specific attacks. In Snowflake’s case, the stolen credentials enabled unauthorized entry into customer accounts, culminating in widespread data theft.

## The Significance of Multifactor Authentication (MFA)

A pivotal conclusion from Mandiant’s assessment was that none of the affected Snowflake accounts had activated multifactor authentication (MFA). MFA enhances security by necessitating users to provide supplementary verification, such as a temporary password or biometric factor, alongside their standard password.

In reaction to the breach, Snowflake mandated MFA for all accounts and raised the minimum password length requirement to 14 characters. These initiatives aim to thwart similar incursions in the future by complicating the process for attackers to infiltrate accounts, even if they possess stolen credentials.

## The Threat Entity: UNC5537 (ShinyHunters)

Mandiant pinpointed the threat organization responsible for the Snowflake breaches as UNC5537, a group also referred to as ShinyHunters. ShinyHunters has been associated with various high-profile data breaches in recent years, including assaults on AT&T, Santander, and other substantial corporations.

In April 2024, UNC5537 initiated a campaign focused on improperly configured software-as-a-service (SaaS) instances across over 100 enterprises. The group employed readily available tools to exploit flaws in these systems, resulting in significant data losses and extortion attempts. Mandiant characterized UNC5537 as one of the most impactful threat actors of 2024, with the Snowflake breach standing out as one of their most destructive operations.

## Other Impacted Organizations

Alongside Ticketmaster, various other Snowflake clients were impacted by the breach. These include:

– **AT&T**: The telecommunications leader disclosed that personal details and call logs for 110 million customers were compromised. AT&T later disbursed $370,000 to the attackers in return for assurances to erase the stolen information.
– **Santander**: The bank based in Spain also experienced a breach, but the extent of the data loss remains uncertain.
– **Pure Storage, Advance Auto Parts, and Neiman Marcus**: These entities were among additional organizations reported to have suffered due to the breach.

## The Arrest of John Binns

In a connected development, John Binns, a co-conspirator in the

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U.S. Labor Board Asserts RTO Requirement Was Aimed at Thwarting Unionization of Grindr Workers

### Grindr Confronts NLRB Complaint Regarding Return-to-Office Policy Amid Organizing Push

The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has lodged a complaint against Grindr, the well-known LGBTQ+ dating application, alleging that the firm utilized a return-to-office (RTO) directive to impede employee unionization efforts. This complaint follows the departure of a considerable segment of Grindr’s workforce, mainly those engaged in union activities, after the RTO policy was enacted.

#### Context: Efforts to Unionize and RTO Directive

In July 2023, employees of Grindr declared their intention to unionize, aiming to affiliate with the Communications Workers of America (CWA). However, mere weeks afterward, on August 3, 2023, Grindr released a memo notifying staff that they had a fortnight to choose between returning to the office for two days weekly or departing the company with six months of severance pay. The company also proposed up to $15,000 in relocation allowances for employees willing to transfer to its office sites in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Washington, DC.

Prior to this mandate, Grindr had permitted employees to work entirely remotely, a setup many had become accustomed to during the COVID-19 crisis. The timing of the RTO announcement triggered concerns among employees and union advocates, who viewed it as a strategy to deter unionization.

In spite of these apprehensions, Grindr asserted that the RTO directive had been planned for several months and was not connected to the unionization measures. Nevertheless, the Communications Workers of America union lodged a complaint with the NLRB on August 4, 2023, claiming the RTO policy was a retaliatory action against those trying to organize.

#### Consequence of the RTO Directive: Mass Departures

The RTO directive significantly affected Grindr’s employee base. Reports indicated that 80 out of 120 employees involved in unionization initiatives opted to leave rather than adhere to the RTO policy. This mass exit represented a large fraction of the firm’s total workforce, which totaled 178 employees at the time of the mandate. Overall, Grindr experienced a loss of approximately 45 percent of its employees.

Eric Cortez, part of the group spearheading the Grindr union, voiced concerns regarding the ramifications of these departures on the company’s operations. In a statement released in September 2023, Cortez remarked, “These decisions have rendered Grindr alarmingly understaffed and raise concerns about the safety, security, and stability of the app for its users.”

#### NLRB Complaint: Claims of Retaliation

On November 3, 2024, the NLRB’s general counsel office submitted a formal complaint against Grindr, accusing the company of unlawfully enforcing the RTO mandate in retaliation against employees seeking to unionize. The complaint also alleges that Grindr contravened labor regulations by failing to acknowledge or negotiate with the union.

Should the case advance without resolution, an administrative law judge is anticipated to oversee the proceedings in March 2025. While the NLRB lacks the authority to impose punitive damages, it could annul Grindr’s RTO directive if found to have acted unlawfully.

In response to the NLRB’s allegations, a Grindr representative dismissed the claims as “baseless,” asserting that the RTO policy was already in development prior to the commencement of unionization efforts. The representative stated, “It was only after it became apparent that the transition back to in-office work was imminent that some employees began signing union cards.”

Despite Grindr’s position, the union organizing committee, Grindr United-Communications Workers of America, regarded the NLRB’s complaint as a “major triumph.” In a statement, they declared, “We hope this NLRB filing sends a strong message to Grindr that, with a union, we are dedicated to negotiating fair working conditions in good faith.”

#### The Wider Discussion: RTO Policies and Employee Retention

Grindr is not alone in encountering difficulties related to RTO policies. As the COVID-19 pandemic waned and restrictions eased, numerous companies began enforcing RTO mandates, often at the expense of employees who had adapted to the flexibility of remote work. In several instances, RTO policies have been associated with employee dissatisfaction and a rise in turnover.

For instance, a survey performed by BambooHR in March 2024 revealed that some corporations were leveraging RTO mandates as a mechanism to decrease their workforce without implementing layoffs. The survey, which gathered feedback from 504 human resources managers, indicated that RTO policies were sometimes crafted to incentivize employees to resign voluntarily.

In a similar vein, a study conducted by Great Place to Work in August 2024 found that employees offered the choice to work remotely, in-office, or a blend of both were three times more inclined to remain with

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