AllYouCanTech

Google Supports Ending WHOIS in TLS Domain Validation Procedure

# The Conclusion of WHOIS-Dependent Domain Validation: A New Chapter for TLS Certificates

In a pivotal decision that may alter the terrain of online security, certificate authorities (CAs) and browser developers are set to abandon the use of WHOIS information for verifying domain ownership. This action follows findings that unveiled how malicious entities could take advantage of the WHOIS-based verification method to illegitimately acquire Transport Layer Security (TLS) certificates. The shift, anticipated to commence in late 2024, could have far-reaching effects for website proprietors, certificate authorities, and the larger internet environment.

## The Importance of TLS Certificates in Online Security

TLS certificates serve as the foundation for secure internet communications. They verify that a website is owned by a legitimate entity and encrypt all interactions between the server and the user. These certificates are vital for establishing HTTPS connections, which are essential for safeguarding sensitive data such as passwords, credit card information, and personal details.

CAs, as trusted intermediaries, are responsible for issuing TLS certificates and verifying the identities of domain owners. The verification process for domain ownership is critical to prevent malicious users from acquiring certificates for domains they do not control, potentially leading to man-in-the-middle attacks, phishing, and other security vulnerabilities.

## The WHOIS-Based Validation Method

Traditionally, one of the methods CAs have relied on to authenticate domain ownership has been WHOIS data. WHOIS is a public registry that holds details about the registered owner of a domain, including contact information like email addresses. According to current regulations, CAs can dispatch a verification email to the address found in the WHOIS record for a domain. If the recipient activates the verification link, the certificate is automatically validated.

However, this approach has long faced criticism regarding its security weaknesses. WHOIS data frequently suffers from being outdated, incorrect, or concealed behind privacy services, rendering it an unreliable information source. Furthermore, the absence of standardized rules for verifying WHOIS records has made it susceptible to exploitation, as evidenced by recent studies.

## The Security Vulnerability Uncovered by watchTowr

In a recent study, analysts from the security firm watchTowr highlighted how malicious actors could misuse the WHOIS-based verification process to gain fraudulent TLS certificates. The analysts successfully created a fraudulent WHOIS server and filled it with fictitious records for domains that end in `.mobi`, a top-level domain (TLD). Through this method, they could receive verification emails for domains they did not own, thus circumventing the security measures that were intended to avert such situations.

The flaw occurred because the official WHOIS server for `.mobi` domains had been moved to a new domain, while the former domain, `dotmobiregistry.net`, was allowed to lapse. The watchTowr team registered the expired domain, established a fake WHOIS server, and discovered that CAs continued to depend on it for domain authentication.

This revelation underscored a vital defect in the WHOIS-based verification method: the absence of a centralized, authoritative source for WHOIS data. Without standardized protocols for validating WHOIS records, CAs found themselves vulnerable to manipulation by malicious entities.

## The CA/Browser Forum’s Reaction

The discoveries made by watchTowr were not overlooked by the CA/Browser Forum (CAB Forum), the industry organization that establishes the guidelines for the issuance and verification of TLS certificates. In light of the findings, a representative from Google suggested that the dependence on WHOIS data for domain ownership verification should be terminated.

The official proposal, presented in September 2024, urges CAs to cease using WHOIS data to determine domain contacts by November 1, 2024. Specifically, the proposal asserts that “CAs MUST NOT rely on WHOIS to identify Domain Contacts” and that “validations using this

Extensive Handbook on iOS Power-User Capabilities: Unveiling the Updated Control Center and Enhanced Tools

# iOS 18: An In-Depth Look at the Enhanced Control Center and Advanced Features for Power Users

iOS 18 has officially been released, and although the highly awaited **Apple Intelligence** feature is still forthcoming, the update introduces notable improvements in customization, especially within the **home screen** and **Control Center**. This article will highlight the enhanced **Control Center** along with other power-user functionalities, including advancements in **iCloud**, **Files**, and the capability to lock or conceal apps.

While iOS 18 may not have unveiled revolutionary features like **Shortcuts** or the **Files app** from earlier updates, it nonetheless provides an array of new capabilities that empower users to customize their iPhones to a greater extent. Let’s explore these new functionalities.

## Enhanced Control Center

The **Control Center** has always been a fundamental aspect of iOS, allowing users quick access to key functionalities with just a swipe. In iOS 18, Apple has elevated its capabilities by integrating customization options, controls for third-party apps, and a paginated layout.

### Significant Updates in Control Center:
– **Customization**: Users now have the option to reorder, resize, and incorporate additional controls directly from the Control Center, eliminating the need to access the Settings app.
– **Third-party app controls**: For the first time, third-party applications can present their own controls within the Control Center, unlocking new avenues for quick app functionalities.
– **Shortcuts integration**: You’re able to add **Shortcuts** to the Control Center, enhancing automation and rapid actions even further.

### New Interface Features:
When you swipe down from the top-right corner of the display to engage the Control Center, you’ll observe some new additions:
– **A “+” symbol in the top-left corner**: This opens the customization menu, letting you reorder and resize controls.
– **A power icon in the top-right corner**: Pressing and holding this brings up the swipe-to-power-off interface.
– **Three icons along the right side of the display**: These signify the three default pages in the newly paginated Control Center.

### Paginated Control Center

The Control Center is now segmented into multiple pages, each indicated by an icon on the right side of the screen:
1. **First page (Heart icon)**: This page retains all the controls from the previous version of Control Center, with ample opportunities for customization.
2. **Second page (Music icon)**: This page features a substantial “Now Playing” widget for music and audio along with **AirPlay** controls.
3. **Third page (Connectivity icon)**: Dedicated to connectivity options, this page includes toggles for **Wi-Fi**, **Bluetooth**, **AirDrop**, **Cellular**, and **VPN**.

Users can swipe vertically to navigate between these pages, and they have the option to add or remove pages by customizing the controls.

### Customizing Pages and Controls

The customization process has become more straightforward and user-friendly. You can activate customization mode by tapping the **“+”** icon or long-pressing any empty area in the Control Center. In this mode, a grid appears, enabling you to add, remove, and rearrange controls.

– **Adding controls**: Click “Add a control” at the bottom of the display to pull up a searchable list of available controls, including those from third-party applications.
– **Resizing controls**: Controls can be resized by moving a marker located at the bottom-right corner of each control. However, most controls lack substantial additional features when resized, which could be seen as a missed opportunity.

### Third-Party App Controls

While there is currently a limited selection of third-party app controls, the potential for this feature is immense. Given that the Control Center can be accessed anytime in iOS, the inclusion of third-party app controls could significantly enhance workflows and make the iPhone even more effective for power users.

## iCloud, Files, and External Drives

In addition to the Control Center, iOS 18 introduces several smaller yet valuable updates in the **Files app** and **iCloud**.

### Files App Improvements:
– **Keep Downloaded**: You can now mark specific files to stay downloaded on your device, preventing iOS from automatically offloading them to the cloud when storage is low.
– **External Drive Compatibility**: iOS 18 adds support for formatting external drives connected via USB-C in **APFS**, **exFAT**, or **MS-DOS (FAT32)** formats. You can also erase drives directly from the Files app, though this function is only available on USB-C enabled iPhones.

### iCloud Management:
– **Redesigned iCloud panel**: The iCloud management panel within the Settings app has been overhauled for improved readability and easier navigation.

Anker Announces Recall and Advises Customers to Stop Using Specific iPhone Power Banks Over Safety Issues

### Anker Issues Recall for MagSafe iPhone Batteries Due to Fire Hazard

Anker, a prominent name in the consumer electronics industry, has announced a recall for three of its MagSafe iPhone battery variants due to a possible fire risk. This recall was made public on [Anker’s website](https://www.anker.com/a1642-a1647-a1652-recall) and includes the following models:

– **Anker 334 MagGo Battery (PowerCore 10K, model number A1642)**
– **Anker Power Bank (model number A1647)**
– **Anker 334 MagGo Battery (model number A1652)**

### Reason for the Recall

The recall is attributed to a manufacturing flaw in the lithium-ion batteries featured in these power banks. Anker reported that this defect may lead to overheating, resulting in the melting of plastic parts, smoke, and potential fire risks. Although the company states that only units produced between **January 3 and September 17** are impacted, they have opted to recall all units of these models “as a precaution.”

### Steps to Take if You Own One

If you possess one of the models affected, Anker recommends that you **stop using the device immediately** and keep it in a secure location. To find out if your product is included in the recall, check the model number displayed on the bottom of the device. The specific model numbers to look for are **A1642, A1647, and A1652**.

After identifying your device, you can go to [Anker’s recall page](https://www.anker.com/a1642-a1647-a1652-recall) to confirm your device’s serial number. Upon confirmation, you will be asked to complete a recall form to start the replacement procedure.

### Disposal Safety Guidelines

Anker has also shared recommendations for properly disposing of the affected power banks. Since lithium-ion batteries can be harmful to the environment and safety, they should **not be discarded in regular trash**. Instead, Anker suggests utilizing certified recycling programs such as [Call2Recycle](https://www.call2recycle.org/) to ensure safe disposal.

### Next Steps for Affected Consumers

Once the recall form is submitted, Anker will supply a replacement unit. Although the company has not indicated the duration of the replacement process, it is wise to act promptly to mitigate any potential safety concerns.

### Summary

While Anker’s products are typically praised for their dependability and functionality, this recall highlights the potential dangers related to lithium-ion batteries. If you own one of the affected models, it is essential to cease usage immediately and adhere to the instructions provided by Anker to safeguard your well-being.

For additional details, visit

“Cards Against Humanity Sues SpaceX, Alleging Company of Land Infringement at the US-Mexico Border”

### Cards Against Humanity Takes Legal Action Against SpaceX for Alleged Land Seizure in Texas

In an unexpected legal conflict, **Cards Against Humanity (CAH)**, the creators of the famed party game, have initiated a lawsuit against **SpaceX**, the aerospace firm established by **Elon Musk**. The suit, submitted in the **Cameron County District Court** of Texas, asserts that SpaceX unlawfully seized a parcel of land that CAH acquired in 2017 as part of a political movement against former President **Donald Trump’s** proposed border wall.

The disputed land is situated close to the **US-Mexico border**, and CAH contends it was purchased with contributions from supporters opposing the wall’s construction. The company claims that SpaceX has since utilized the land for its own activities without authorization, causing considerable damage and disruption.

### Background: CAH’s 2017 Opposition to Trump’s Border Wall

In 2017, CAH initiated a **holiday initiative** aimed at countering Trump’s intentions to construct a border wall. This campaign was financed by **$15 contributions** from over **150,000 supporters**, forming part of the company’s wider objectives to engage in political advocacy. CAH allocated a portion of the funds to acquire a **vacant parcel of land** in Cameron County, Texas, specifically to complicate the government’s efforts to erect the wall.

The company assured its backers that it would “make it as time-consuming and expensive as possible for Trump to build his wall” on the property. CAH managed the land, delineating its borders with a fence and a **”No Trespassing”** sign. However, rather than the government attempting to take the land for the border wall, CAH alleges that **SpaceX** began utilizing the property for its own construction projects.

### The Claim of Land Seizure by SpaceX

The lawsuit claims that SpaceX encroached upon CAH’s property in connection with its expansion endeavors near its **Starbase** site in Boca Chica, Texas. The legal filing alleges that SpaceX “never requested permission” to occupy the land and that the company or its contractors cleared vegetation, compacted the soil, and commenced storing construction materials and equipment there.

The complaint includes **before-and-after photographs** purporting to illustrate the land’s condition when CAH acquired it in 2017 and its current state following SpaceX’s construction activities. CAH accuses SpaceX of treating the property as though it were its own for a minimum of six months, using it as a staging ground for vehicles, equipment, and materials.

Additionally, the legal document asserts that SpaceX has not only damaged the land but has also jeopardized its safety, transforming it into a worksite that should adhere to **OSHA safety regulations**. Nevertheless, CAH contends that SpaceX has made no attempts to clarify or apologize for its actions.

### CAH Seeks $15 Million in Compensation

In its legal action, CAH is pursuing up to **$15 million** in restitution. This includes the expenses required to restore the land, the **decline in its fair market value**, and compensation for the **unauthorized use** of the property by SpaceX. The company is also seeking damages for the **loss of goodwill** and damage to its reputation, in addition to punitive damages.

CAH argues that this incident has already harmed its standing with its supporters, who relied on the company to safeguard the land from exploitation by billionaires such as Musk. The lawsuit underscores that CAH has a “longstanding reputation as a company that makes outrageous promises and actually fulfills them,” and that allowing Musk to commandeer the land without repercussions would erode that trust.

### CAH’s Public Reaction: “Go F@#k Yourself, Elon Musk”

True to its bold and irreverent style, CAH has taken a striking approach to publicizing the lawsuit. It has unveiled a website titled **”CAH Sues Musk”**, detailing its complaints in vibrant language. The site asserts, “Seven years ago, 150,000 people contributed $15 to protect a pristine piece of land on the US-Mexico border from racist billionaire Donald Trump’s very stupid wall. Unfortunately, an even richer, more racist billionaire—Elon Musk—sneakily advanced upon us and thoroughly messed that land up with gravel, tractors, and space debris.”

The website further claims that SpaceX made a **”lowball offer”** to purchase the land after CAH raised alarms about the encroachment. According to CAH, SpaceX issued a **12-hour ultimatum** for the company to accept an offer that was under half the land’s assessed value. CAH rejected the proposal and replied with, “Go fuck yourself, Elon Musk. We’ll see you in court.”

### CAH Commits to Sharing Benefits with Support

NASA Accelerates Initiatives to Transmit 4K Video Straight from the Moon

# Intuitive Machines: Trailblazing Lunar Relay Services and Redefining Space Communication

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Starlink Unveils $100 “Congestion Fee” for New Subscribers in Specific U.S. Areas

# Starlink Unveils $100 Congestion Fee for New Customers in High-Demand Zones

Starlink, the satellite internet provider under SpaceX, has rolled out a new $100 “congestion fee” for customers situated in areas where the network faces heightened demand and restricted capacity. This charge, applicable to new customers acquiring or activating a service plan, aims to manage network congestion and enhance user experience in these densely populated locales.

## Rationale Behind the Congestion Fee

As Starlink’s popularity surges, particularly in rural and underprivileged regions, the network has encountered difficulties in sustaining stable speeds and service quality. The congestion fee is a one-off charge imposed on customers in locales where the satellite network cannot meet demand. Per Starlink’s FAQ, this fee will only be collected in congested areas and will not affect existing customers unless they modify their service address or plan.

The fee is intended to dissuade new sign-ups in already saturated areas, possibly easing some pressure on the network. Starlink has also indicated that this charge is temporary and will be lifted once network capacity improves in the targeted areas.

### Refund Procedure

For customers unhappy with the service, Starlink provides a 30-day return policy. Should a customer opt to return the service within this timeframe, the $100 congestion fee will be reimbursed. This policy offers reassurance for those cautious about enrolling in congested areas yet eager to experience the service.

## Regional Discounts for Areas with Sufficient Capacity

Though the congestion fee may be disappointing for some, there’s positive news for customers in regions where Starlink has ample capacity. Starlink has launched “regional discounts” in select parts of the U.S. and Canada where network availability is plentiful. In these locations, customers may receive a $100 service credit, with some areas in Canada offering up to $200.

Moreover, customers in over-capacity regions of the U.S. can enjoy a reduced monthly service fee of $90, compared to the $120 monthly fee in congested zones. This pricing model underscores Starlink’s efforts to balance network load and provide more economical options where capacity is permitted.

## Starlink Speeds and Network Efficiency

The introduction of the congestion fee comes as Starlink wrestles with inconsistent network performance. As user sign-ups have increased, particularly in densely populated regions, speeds have declined. In 2022, speed test data indicated that median U.S. download speeds for Starlink plummeted by nearly 30 Mbps in the second quarter. This performance decline was among the reasons cited by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) when it denied Starlink $886 million in broadband deployment grants, labeling the proposal as overly risky.

The congestion fee is not the first instance of Starlink adjusting its pricing based on regional network capabilities. In February 2023, the company implemented a pricing structure where customers in low-capacity areas were charged $120 monthly, whereas those in high-capacity areas paid $90 monthly. The new $100 congestion fee is part of an ongoing effort to manage network load and optimize service quality for all users.

## Is This a Suitable Time to Enroll in Starlink?

Even with the introduction of the congestion fee, now may still be an opportune time to register for Starlink, especially for customers in regions with ample network capacity. The company is currently providing a substantial discount on its standard satellite dish, lowering the price from $499 to $299. Coupled with the regional savings credit and the decreased monthly service rate in high-capacity areas, this may present an appealing option for those seeking to transition to satellite broadband.

For customers in congested zones, however, the choice might be more complex. Although the $100 congestion fee is a one-time charge, the possibility of slower speeds due to network congestion could pose a concern. Nevertheless, the 30-day return policy offers some flexibility for those wishing to try the service without long-term commitment.

## Final Thoughts

Starlink’s new $100 congestion fee reflects the soaring demand for satellite internet and the hurdles of managing a rapidly growing network. While the fee may discourage some potential customers in crowded areas, it could also enhance service quality by alleviating network pressure. Simultaneously, customers in regions with more available capacity can take advantage of regional discounts and lower monthly rates, making Starlink an attractive option for those in search of dependable broadband.

As Starlink continues to expand its satellite network and enhance its infrastructure, the company is focused on addressing these capacity challenges and delivering faster, more reliable service to users around the globe. For now, prospective customers should assess their location and the possible implications of network congestion before committing to the service.

“Frostpunk 2 Grows with Wider Horizons and Enhanced Political Nuance While Keeping Its Harsh, Intense Challenge”

# **Frostpunk 2: A Gripping Sequel with Enhanced Strategy and Survival Elements**

**Frostpunk 2**, the eagerly awaited continuation of the original *Frostpunk* (2018), is now available, featuring an array of new elements, obstacles, and deeper strategic gameplay. Crafted by 11 Bit Studios, the game builds upon the survival city-building mechanics established in its predecessor while introducing additional layers of political dynamics, resource administration, and ethical quandaries. If you thought braving the cold was challenging in the first installment, *Frostpunk 2* demands not only endurance against nature but also navigation through the intricate societal and political turmoil of a world on the verge of disaster.

## **A Change in Emphasis: From Structures to Districts**

One significant alteration in *Frostpunk 2* is the way you oversee your city. In the previous game, you were tasked with placing individual structures and routes, carefully arranging the layout of your frigid community. In *Frostpunk 2*, the attention shifts from the fine-tuning of single units to the strategic planning and enhancement of whole districts. This shift in focus empowers you to contemplate more strategically about the enduring expansion of your city, as opposed to becoming ensnared in the details of where to position a single medical facility or coal extraction site.

The visual style remains consistent with the first game, with your city still emanating from a central generator. However, rather than positioning buildings on a grid, you now deploy expansive hexagonal districts that seamlessly connect to each other within your city. This not only streamlines the construction process but also imparts a more natural, sprawling appearance as your city develops. The core challenge persists: ensuring your residents remain warm, nourished, and alive in a world intent on freezing them out.

## **Factions and Governance: An Added Layer of Intricacy**

While the original *Frostpunk* had you making choices that influenced the spirits and sustainability of your populace, *Frostpunk 2* brings forth a more intricate political framework. You are no longer solely overseeing a group of survivors; you are managing factions, each possessing unique beliefs, objectives, and demands. These factions are not mere bystanders—they play active roles in your city’s leadership, and you will need to navigate their diverse interests to retain control.

The game introduces two main factions at the outset: the Progress-driven New Londoners and the Adaptation-oriented Frostlanders. As you advance, additional factions emerge, including the Order-centric Stalwarts and the Faithkeepers, alongside their opposing ideologies, the Pilgrims and Evolvers. Each faction holds its own “Cornerstones” (fundamental principles), and you must engage with them to enact laws, gather resources, and sustain order.

At the core of this political structure lies the Council Hall, where you must garner votes from the 100 council members, distributed across the factions. Most decisions necessitate a simple majority of 51 votes, but more substantial shifts—like those impacting your resources—require 66 votes. If a faction is wavering, you can offer future incentives, such as research initiatives or policy revisions. However, failing to fulfill these promises may lead to enduring repercussions, as factions will remember your betrayals and act against you in subsequent scenarios.

## **A Realm Beyond Survival: What Kind of Community Will You Forge?**

In *Frostpunk 2*, survival is no longer the singular goal. The narrative unfolds 30 years after the original’s events, and although the world remains icy and unforgiving, there is a prospect of hope for more. The query evolves beyond merely surviving the cold; now it centers on the kind of community you aspire to build once you possess sufficient resources to progress beyond survival.

Do you wish to establish a community founded on order and discipline, or one that cherishes faith and fellowship? Will you emphasize technological advancement, or will you concentrate on adapting to the severe conditions? These are the types of inquiries *Frostpunk 2* prompts you to ponder, and

“Customer Discontent Increases as ISP’s Smart TVs Refuse to Turn On”

### Sky Glass and Stream Devices Hit by Major Outage: Faulty Update Suspected

Numerous Sky Glass TV and Stream puck users in the UK were left exasperated when their devices failed to power on Thursday. The problem, affecting subscribers to Sky’s streaming services, remains largely unexplained by the company, although a malfunctioning software update is widely thought to be the culprit.

Sky, a subsidiary of Comcast, ventured into the streaming hardware space in 2021 with its own Glass TVs and Stream pucks. These devices enable users to access Sky’s TV channels online, removing the necessity for a satellite dish. Nonetheless, the recent disruption has caused many customers to doubt the dependability of the hardware and the company’s capability to oversee such technology.

### The Incident: Devices Not Powering On

As of Thursday, several Sky Glass and Stream users reported their devices not activating, resulting in blank screens. Reports indicated the problem persisted for several hours, with some users unable to utilize their devices for almost 11 hours. The issue appeared to peak around 3:10 pm UTC, with 377 cases noted on the outage-tracking site **Downdetector**. However, the true number of affected devices might be significantly greater, as many users voiced their discontent on Sky’s community forums and social media platforms.

A discussion thread on Sky’s community forum addressing the problem has expanded to 141 pages, with users sharing their accounts and troubleshooting advice. Some customers have requested compensation, whether in the form of refunds or credits, as they were unable to access the services for which they pay. Yet, at the time of writing, Sky had not issued any public communication regarding possible refunds or compensatory measures.

### Sky’s Response: Apologies and Technical Assistance

Sky has recognized the issue through its social media platforms and support forums. On Thursday, the company released a message on Twitter stating:

> “Some Sky Glass/Stream customers are currently experiencing technical issues when trying to switch on their devices. Our technical teams are working hard to fix this. We’re sorry for any inconvenience caused.”

Sky also pointed users to a support page outlining steps for device resets. However, numerous customers reported that the recommended solutions did not rectify the problem. One user on Sky’s support forum, PaulRC1963, voiced his dissatisfaction, stating:

> “Yet this isn’t working for everyone though. You’re essentially just telling people to turn it on and off again. Sky is acting very incompetent.”

Despite ongoing troubleshooting efforts, some users continued to face issues as of Friday morning. Sky has not offered a timeline for the complete resolution of the problem.

### The Suspected Cause: A Faulty Update?

While Sky has not confirmed the specific cause of the issue, many believe that a poorly executed software update is responsible. The simultaneous malfunction of hundreds of devices indicates that the problem was likely initiated by a widespread update distributed via the Internet. Sky has opted not to respond to inquiries from the **BBC** regarding the problem’s cause or its resolution timeline.

This outage serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of purchasing hardware from companies unaccustomed to the tech industry. Primarily recognized for its satellite TV services, Sky entered the streaming hardware market in 2021 with its Glass TVs and Stream pucks. These devices were intended to facilitate Sky’s transition from traditional satellite TV to Internet-based streaming, but the recent incident underscores the difficulties the company encounters in managing such technology.

### The Larger Context: Streaming Hardware and Software Updates

Sky’s entry into the streaming hardware space was part of a broader strategy to meet the rising demand for streaming services. The company’s Glass TVs, priced from £600 (approximately $800) for a 43-inch model to £1,199 (about $1,600) for a 65-inch variant, include features like **quantum dots**, **Dolby Vision**, **HDR10**, and **HLG HDR** support. However, customers must subscribe to Sky Entertainment to utilize the devices, and access to streaming applications like Netflix is contingent on this subscription.

The Stream puck, a smaller and more economical device, similarly requires a Sky subscription to operate. While these devices provide a simple method to access Sky’s TV channels and streaming services, the recent outage has raised alarms about their reliability.

This situation starkly illustrates the challenges associated with managing large software updates for smart devices. Unlike traditional set-top boxes, reportedly unaffected by the outage, smart TVs and streaming devices heavily rely on software updates for optimal operation. A poorly executed update can render these devices inoperable, as many Sky customers experienced this week.

### Customer Discontent and Requests for Compensation

The outage has ignited widespread frustration among Sky customers, with some contemplating the cancellation of their subscriptions. One user on Sky’s community forum, **larky+marky**, remarked:

> “What a total lump of

Senate Committee Casts Unanimous Vote to Find CEO of Disputed Health Care Firm in Contempt

**Senate Committee Holds Steward Health Care CEO Ralph de la Torre in Contempt**

In an uncommon and significant development, the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) cast an overwhelming vote on Thursday to hold Ralph de la Torre, the CEO of Steward Health Care System, in both civil and criminal contempt. This resolution follows de la Torre’s refusal to adhere to a subpoena compelling him to testify before lawmakers concerning the downfall of his hospital chain, which resulted in extensive financial distress and patient fatalities.

### Steward Health Care’s Collapse

Steward Health Care, previously a leading hospital network with more than 30 facilities across eight states, has faced severe scrutiny after its financial crisis. The system’s decline, which ultimately led to bankruptcy, has been associated with alarming conditions in its hospitals, where reports of inadequate care have been equated with “third-world medicine.” The Senate committee indicated that these conditions were linked to the deaths of at least 15 patients and jeopardized the lives of over 2,000 more.

The Senate HELP Committee, chaired by Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), has been probing the factors contributing to the collapse. The committee’s investigation has centered on de la Torre’s role, who, despite the financial struggles of the hospital system, reportedly accumulated at least $250 million during its decline. His extravagant lifestyle—including the acquisition of a $40 million yacht, a $15 million luxury fishing vessel, and the utilization of two private jets valued at $95 million—has faced intense backlash from both lawmakers and the general public.

### De la Torre’s Defiance

In July, the Senate HELP Committee issued a subpoena mandating de la Torre to testify regarding the hospital system’s fall and its repercussions on patient care. Initially, de la Torre consented to attend a hearing slated for September 12, 2024. However, merely a week before the hearing, he withdrew, citing legal issues. Through his legal representatives, de la Torre asserted that a federal order related to Steward’s bankruptcy case barred him from discussing the matter, as this could disrupt ongoing reorganization and settlement initiatives.

The Senate committee dismissed this rationale, maintaining that de la Torre’s refusal to testify was unwarranted. Nevertheless, de la Torre failed to attend the hearing, prompting the committee to escalate their response.

### Bipartisan Contempt Vote

On Thursday, the Senate HELP Committee unanimously voted 20-0 to hold de la Torre in both civil and criminal contempt, with only Senator Rand Paul (R-Ky.) abstaining. This represents the first occasion in recent history that the committee has enacted both civil and criminal contempt resolutions.

Should the full Senate ratify the contempt charges, the civil enforcement would instruct the Senate’s legal counsel to initiate a federal civil lawsuit against de la Torre, compelling him to adhere to the subpoena and give testimony before the committee. The criminal contempt charge would escalate the case to the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, who could initiate prosecution against de la Torre for his noncompliance with the subpoena. A conviction could lead to a fine of up to $100,000 and a prison term of up to 12 months.

### De la Torre’s Legal Defense

On the eve of the committee’s vote, an attorney representing de la Torre issued a statement condemning the Senate’s actions. According to the attorney, de la Torre’s testimony would infringe upon his Fifth Amendment rights, which safeguard individuals from self-incrimination. The attorney contended that the committee’s demand for de la Torre’s testimony was unfair and that the CEO had a legal right to decline.

However, Senator Sanders and other committee members were not convinced by this argument. In a statement following the vote, Sanders underscored that de la Torre’s wealth and legal resources did not exempt him from the law. “If you defy a Congressional subpoena, you will be held accountable no matter who you are or how well-connected you may be,” Sanders declared.

### Next Steps

The full Senate’s vote on the contempt charges will decide whether de la Torre faces legal repercussions for his refusal to testify. If the charges are affirmed, it could establish a notable precedent for how Congress addresses corporate executives who disobey subpoenas, particularly in matters concerning public health and safety.

The ramifications of this case are being closely monitored, not only for its legal consequences but also for the broader implication it carries regarding corporate accountability in the healthcare industry. The collapse of Steward Health Care has spurred serious apprehensions about the oversight of healthcare systems, especially when patient care is neglected in favor of profit. The Senate HELP Committee’s investigation seeks to illuminate these concerns and hold those accountable for their actions.

As the case progresses, it remains uncertain whether de la Torre will be ultimately compelled to testify and whether the legal proceedings against him will lead to further consequences. Regardless of the outcome, the Senate’s actions signify an increasing resolve to ensure that corporate leaders are held accountable.

Refrain from Orchestrating a Norwegian Murder Prank in a Fantasy Football Group Chat in the US

### Fantasy Football Turned Sour: The Risks of Online Group Chats and Fabricated Threats

Philadelphia, a city famed for its enthusiastic sports supporters, has experienced its share of football-related uproar. From oiling light poles to deter fans from climbing them post-victory to the notorious “Go Birds!” chants, the city’s affection for the sport is irrefutable. Nevertheless, one Philadelphia resident, Matthew Gabriel, escalated his football obsession to a shocking and hazardous extreme, transforming a mere fantasy football group chat into a federal offense.

#### The Event: A Fantasy Football Feud Intensifies

Matthew Gabriel, a 25-year-old hailing from Philadelphia’s Mt. Airy area, actively participated in a fantasy football group chat. Like many sports enthusiasts, Gabriel enjoyed light-hearted exchanges and rivalry with other chat members. However, for reasons that remain vague, Gabriel became furious with another participant, a student at the University of Iowa, and opted for extreme measures.

In August 2023, while the student was studying abroad in Norway, Gabriel reached out to the Norwegian police via an online tip form, falsely asserting that the student was plotting a mass shooting in Oslo. His communication was detailed and alarming, outlining a supposed scheme to target a concert and a department store. Gabriel’s tip included:

> “On August 15th a man named [student’s name] is headed around Oslo and has a shooting planned with multiple people on his side involved. They plan to take as many as they can at a concert and then head to a department store. I don’t know any more people than that, I just can’t have random people dying on my conscience.”

The Norwegian police, along with U.S. authorities, took the threat seriously. Countless hours were dedicated to investigating the claim, only to find out that the entire incident was fabricated. When confronted by the FBI, Gabriel confessed to concocting the tale.

#### A Second Fabrication: The Bomb Scare

Despite the severity of his actions, Gabriel didn’t stop there. In March 2024, he further escalated matters by submitting another false report. This time, he emailed officials at the University of Iowa, alleging that the same student was plotting to bomb the school. Gabriel’s email stated:

> “Hello, I saw this in a group chat I’m in and just want to make sure everyone is safe and fine. I don’t want anything bad to happen to anybody. Thank you. A man named