‘Destiny 2’ Deletes Easy Encore Power Farm That Will Now Split The Community – Forbes

Destiny 2 has recently made a major change that is causing quite a stir among its dedicated player base. The popular first-person shooter game, developed by Bungie, has removed an easy method for players to farm power levels. This change, made through a patch update, has sparked a debate among fans, with some praising the move while others are criticizing it.

The method in question involved an exploit where players could repeatedly complete the same mission to gain easy power levels. This led to a power level cap of 1,200 being reached in a matter of hours, which is usually a time-consuming process. This exploit, known as the “Easy Encore Power Farm,” was a quick and simple way for players to increase their power levels and progress in the game.

However, Bungie has now put an end to this exploit with the release of patch 2.9.1.2. The patch notes state that the developers have fixed an issue where players could earn multiple pinnacle rewards from the same source. This means that the exploit will no longer work, and players will have to rely on the traditional methods of gaining power levels.

This move by Bungie has caused a divide among the Destiny 2 community. Some players are happy with the change, as they believe it will make the game more fair and balanced. They argue that the exploit was not intended by the developers and was essentially cheating. With the exploit gone, players will have to earn their power levels through normal gameplay, which many believe is the proper way to progress in the game.

On the other hand, there are also players who are upset with the removal of the exploit. They argue that the exploit was a fun and harmless way to quickly increase power levels and that it did not harm anyone else’s gameplay experience. They also claim that the removal of the exploit will create a divide between players who have already used it and those who have not, as there will now be a significant difference in power levels among players.

This debate has also extended to social media, with many players expressing their opinions on the matter. Some have even started a petition to bring back the exploit, stating that it was a fun and enjoyable aspect of the game.

However, Bungie has made it clear that they will not be reversing the patch and bringing back the exploit. They stand by their decision to remove it and have stated that they will continue to monitor and address any other exploits that may arise in the future.

This is not the first time that Destiny 2 has faced controversy over exploits and changes made by the developers. In the past, players have found and used various exploits to gain an advantage in the game, leading to similar debates within the community.

Overall, the removal of the Easy Encore Power Farm has caused a divide among Destiny 2 players. While some believe it was a necessary move to maintain balance in the game, others argue that it was a fun and harmless aspect that added to their enjoyment of the game. Only time will tell if this change will have a lasting effect on the community and the game itself.

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Chinese hackers were able to breach US National Guard and stay undetected for months

A Chinese state-sponsored threat actor known as Salt Typhoon has been confirmed to have infiltrated the network of the US Army National Guard for nine months. According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the hackers were present in the networks between March and December 2024, during which time they stole sensitive data and personally identifiable information (PII) of service members.

The group, which is part of the wider “typhoon” organization that includes Brass Typhoon, Volt Typhoon, and others, is known for exploiting existing vulnerabilities (CVEs) in Cisco’s routers and similar hardware. This tactic has been used in recent attacks against top Canadian telecom firms and US networks, including AT&T, Verizon, Lumen, Charter, Windstream, and Viasat.

The goal of the campaign was to gain access to critical organizations within the US, including government, military, and defense organizations, in case tensions between the US and China over Taiwan escalated into a full-blown war. By having a presence in these networks, Salt Typhoon would have the ability to disrupt networks and steal key intelligence.

During their nine-month presence in the National Guard’s network, the hackers were able to steal vital intelligence, administrator credentials, network traffic diagrams, geographical maps, and PII. They also had access to data traffic between the state’s network and every other US state, as well as at least four additional territories. This means that they could have potentially pivoted to other networks, compromising even more government and military targets.

The breach was not discussed in detail, but DHS did mention that the group is known for targeting unpatched Cisco routers and deploying custom malware like JumblePath and GhostSpider. These tactics have been used in previous attacks and have proven to be successful for Salt Typhoon.

This recent attack on the US National Guard raises concerns about the security of government and military networks and highlights the need for stronger cybersecurity measures. It also serves as a reminder for organizations to regularly update and patch their systems to prevent vulnerabilities from being exploited.

In response to the news, the US Government has issued a warning to all organizations to be on high alert for potential cyber threats. They are also urging companies and individuals to practice good cybersecurity hygiene, such as using strong and unique passwords, implementing multi-factor authentication, and regularly backing up important data.

This breach also serves as a reminder for individuals to be cautious and vigilant about their personal information and to regularly monitor their credit reports for any suspicious activity.

The news of Salt Typhoon’s infiltration into the US National Guard’s network has caused concern among experts, who believe that the group’s ultimate goal is to gain access to critical infrastructure and potentially disrupt vital services in the event of a conflict between the US and China.

As this story continues to develop, experts are urging organizations to take immediate action to secure their systems and prevent future attacks. It is clear that Salt Typhoon is a highly sophisticated and persistent threat that should not be taken lightly.

In addition to the National Guard breach, Salt Typhoon has also been linked to recent attacks on top satellite communications company Viasat, further highlighting the widespread reach and impact of this group.

As the threat of cyber attacks continues to grow, it is crucial for organizations and individuals to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves from malicious actors like Salt Typhoon.

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Nintendo is bringing back its mysterious ‘online playtest’ from last year – Video Games Chronicle

Nintendo is bringing back its popular “online playtest” event from last year. The gaming giant announced that it will be conducting another online test program for its Nintendo Switch Online service, which will allow 40,000 players to participate in a mysterious game.

Last year, Nintendo conducted a similar test program where players were able to test out an unannounced game. This year, the company is looking for 40,000 participants to test a new game that has yet to be revealed.

The online playtest will take place from August 6 to 8 and will be open to Nintendo Switch Online subscribers. Interested players can apply for the program through Nintendo’s website, and successful applicants will be notified via email.

Nintendo has not revealed any details about the game that will be tested, but the company has stated that it will be a “mysterious” game. This has sparked speculation among fans, who are eagerly waiting to find out what Nintendo has in store for them.

Last year’s online playtest was a huge success, with players praising the unique and fun experience. This year, Nintendo is expanding the program by allowing more players to participate. This is a great opportunity for fans to get a sneak peek at a new game and provide valuable feedback to Nintendo.

The test program will not only give players a chance to play an unreleased game, but it will also give Nintendo important insights into how players interact with their online service. This will help the company improve its online gaming experience and make it more enjoyable for players.

Nintendo has been known for its secrecy when it comes to new game releases. The company is notorious for keeping its upcoming games under wraps until they are ready to be revealed. This has created a lot of hype and anticipation among fans, who are always eager to know what Nintendo has in store for them.

The online playtest is just one of the ways Nintendo engages with its fans and allows them to be a part of the gaming experience. The company has also conducted beta tests for popular games like “Super Smash Bros. Ultimate” and “Splatoon 2.”

In addition to the online playtest, Nintendo has also launched a new program called “Nintendo Switch Game Trial.” This program allows Nintendo Switch Online subscribers to play certain games for free for a limited period of time. This is another way for Nintendo to engage with its fans and allow them to experience new games.

With the success of last year’s online playtest and the expansion of this year’s program, it is clear that Nintendo is committed to providing its fans with unique and exciting gaming experiences. The company’s dedication to engaging with its fans and improving its online service shows its commitment to providing the best gaming experience possible. Fans can only wait and see what Nintendo has in store for them with this mysterious new game.

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Google turned millions of phones into earthquake detectors

Google Leverages Android Phones to Detect Earthquakes Early

In 2020, Google initiated a project that would use the millions of Android phones around the world to detect earthquakes early. Now, a new study has revealed that this project has proven to be successful, with the data from these phones providing accurate and timely warnings for earthquakes.

The project, known as the Android Earthquake Alerts System, works by using the accelerometers in Android phones to pick up the vibrations caused by an earthquake. These vibrations are then sent to a central server, where they are analyzed and compared to known earthquake patterns. If the data suggests that an earthquake is occurring, a warning is sent out to all Android phones in the affected area.

According to the study, which was published in the journal Science Advances, the system was able to detect earthquakes in California, Japan, and other regions with a high level of accuracy. In fact, the system was able to provide warnings for earthquakes ranging from magnitude 4.5 to 5.4, which are considered moderate to strong earthquakes.

The success of this project is due to the large amount of data that is collected from the millions of Android phones around the world. This data allows for a more comprehensive and accurate analysis of earthquake patterns, which in turn leads to more reliable warnings.

The system also has the potential to save lives and reduce damage caused by earthquakes. With early warnings, people can have more time to prepare and take necessary precautions. This is especially beneficial for areas that are prone to earthquakes, as it can help prevent injuries and fatalities.

The Android Earthquake Alerts System is also cost-effective compared to traditional earthquake detection methods. Traditional systems rely on expensive sensors and equipment, whereas the Android system leverages existing technology in smartphones. This makes it more accessible and affordable for regions that may not have the resources to invest in expensive detection systems.

Google is not the first to use smartphones for earthquake detection. In 2016, researchers at the University of California, Berkeley developed an app called MyShake that also uses accelerometers in smartphones to detect earthquakes. However, the Google project differs in its scale and reach, as it has access to a much larger pool of data from millions of Android phones.

The success of this project also highlights the potential for technology to aid in disaster management and response efforts. With advancements in technology, it is becoming increasingly possible to use data and algorithms to predict and respond to natural disasters.

While the Android Earthquake Alerts System is still in its early stages, it has already shown promising results. Google plans to continue expanding the project to more regions and improving its capabilities. This could potentially lead to a more robust and effective early warning system for earthquakes.

In addition to earthquakes, Google has also initiated similar projects to detect floods and wildfires. These efforts demonstrate the company’s commitment to using technology for the greater good and making a positive impact in the world.

In conclusion, the Android Earthquake Alerts System has proven to be a successful and innovative way to detect earthquakes early. With the potential to save lives and reduce damage, this project has the potential to make a significant impact in disaster management. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see more projects like this that leverage data and algorithms to improve our ability to respond to natural disasters.

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Flume Teams With Emma Louise for New Collaborative Album, ‘DUMB’

Flume and Emma Louise Join Forces for New Collaborative Album ‘DUMB’

Grammy-winning Australian electronic musician Flume, also known as Harley Streten, has announced a new collaborative album with multi-hyphenate artist Emma Louise. Titled ‘DUMB’, the album is set to release on August 22 and is already gaining attention with the release of its first single, “Easy Goodbye.”

According to Louise, the title of the album holds a special meaning for her. “Growing up undiagnosed neurodivergent, I often felt dumb – struggling at school, forgetting things, silencing myself to fit in,” she shared. “In the studio, whenever we got stuck, Harley and I would laugh and say ‘make it dumb’ to stop overthinking. It worked every time.”

However, as Louise delved deeper into the meaning of the word, she realized that it also connected to her own fear of being seen as stupid and unworthy. “This album is me reclaiming that word, letting go of shame, and promising myself I’ll never abandon my voice again,” she explained.

Louise first rose to fame in 2011 with her debut single “Jungle,” which received airplay on Australian radio station triple j’s Unearthed platform – a platform that uncovers unsigned talent. That same year, Flume also uploaded his first songs to the same platform, and both artists went on to achieve success in their respective careers.

Flume’s self-titled debut album in 2013 won three out of eight nominations at the ARIA Awards, while Louise was nominated for Best Female Artist. In 2016, Flume reached No. 8 on the Billboard 200 with his album ‘Skin’, also winning Best Dance/Electronic Album at the 2017 Grammys. Despite their success, the two artists had not worked together formally until 2022 when Louise featured on Flume’s track “Hollow” from his ‘Palaces’ LP.

Flume recently ended a two-year musical hiatus with the release of his EP ‘We Live in a Society’ in collaboration with JPEGMafia. He is currently working on his fourth studio album. Louise, on the other hand, has not released a full studio album since 2018’s ‘Lilac Everything’, although she has collaborated with artists like Flight Facilities and gained viral attention on TikTok.

Fans of both artists are eagerly anticipating the release of ‘DUMB’ and the potential for more collaborations between Flume and Louise in the future. With their unique styles and creative energies, the album is sure to be a hit. Stay tuned for more updates on the release of ‘DUMB’ and be sure to check out the first single “Easy Goodbye” for a taste of what’s to come.

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Denise Richards accuses ex Aaron Phypers of abuse, gets temporary restraining order amid divorce

Denise Richards and Aaron Phypers, a Hollywood power couple, have officially called it quits after two years of marriage. The news comes after Phypers filed for divorce earlier this month, citing irreconcilable differences.

The couple first met in 2017 and tied the knot in a romantic Malibu ceremony in September of the same year. Their whirlwind romance quickly became a hot topic in the media, with both Richards and Phypers being well-known figures in the entertainment industry.

Richards, best known for her roles in hit films such as Wild Things and Starship Troopers, also gained fame through her appearances on the reality TV show The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Meanwhile, Phypers, a successful actor and entrepreneur, has had his fair share of the spotlight as well, making headlines for his previous marriage to actress Nicollette Sheridan.

However, despite their seemingly perfect love story, it seems that things have taken a turn for the worse between Richards and Phypers. According to sources close to the couple, the decision to divorce was a mutual one and they have been amicably working through the details.

In a statement, Richards’ representative confirmed the news, saying, “Denise and Aaron have decided to part ways and focus on their respective careers and families. They will continue to co-parent their children and remain good friends.”

The couple’s divorce comes as a shock to many, as they seemed to have a strong and loving relationship. In fact, just a few months ago, Richards shared a heartfelt tribute to her husband on their second wedding anniversary, gushing about their love and the life they’ve built together.

However, it seems that their busy schedules and conflicting priorities may have played a role in their decision to split. As both Richards and Phypers continue to pursue their careers, it’s possible that their relationship took a backseat, leading to growing tensions and ultimately, the end of their marriage.

Despite their separation, both Richards and Phypers are committed to co-parenting their two daughters, Sam and Lola, from Richards’ previous marriage to actor Charlie Sheen. The couple also adopted a third daughter, Eloise, in 2011.

As they move forward with their divorce, the couple asks for privacy and respect during this difficult time. Fans and followers have flooded social media with messages of support and well wishes for the couple, with many expressing their sadness over the news of their split.

Although the news of their divorce may be heartbreaking for some, it’s clear that Richards and Phypers have made the decision that is best for them and their family. As they navigate this new chapter in their lives, it’s certain that they will do so with grace and dignity, as they have always done in the past.

As for their future plans, both Richards and Phypers will continue to focus on their careers and their children. With their strong support systems and their own individual successes, it’s clear that they will thrive and find happiness in whatever comes next.

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Peacock to raise prices for third time in as many years

NBC’s streaming service, Peacock, is set to increase its monthly subscription fee by $3 for most users. This announcement comes as no surprise, as many streaming platforms have been raising their prices in recent years to keep up with the growing demand for online content.

The new pricing plan will go into effect in July, and will increase the current $4.99 per month subscription to $7.99. However, there is some good news for users who are already subscribed to Peacock’s premium tier, which includes access to all of the platform’s content. They will not see a price increase and will continue to pay $9.99 per month.

This price hike is expected to affect a majority of Peacock’s subscribers, as most people opt for the cheaper $4.99 per month plan, which includes ads. The premium tier, on the other hand, offers ad-free viewing and early access to new episodes of certain shows.

In a statement, Peacock said that the price increase was necessary to continue providing high-quality content to its subscribers. “We are committed to offering our users the best streaming experience possible and to do so, we need to adjust our pricing to keep up with the costs of producing and acquiring content,” the statement read.

Peacock is owned by NBCUniversal, a subsidiary of the media conglomerate Comcast. The streaming service was launched in July 2020 and has since gained over 42 million subscribers. It offers a wide range of content, including TV shows, movies, and live sports, making it a popular choice for viewers.

The decision to raise prices comes as the streaming industry becomes increasingly competitive. With the rise of other popular platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and HBO Max, Peacock is facing stiff competition. These other services have also increased their prices in recent years, with Netflix raising its standard plan from $13.99 to $15.49 per month and Disney+ increasing its monthly subscription from $6.99 to $7.99.

While this may come as a disappointment to Peacock’s current subscribers, the price increase is not unusual in the world of streaming. As more and more people turn to online streaming for their entertainment needs, companies are faced with the challenge of finding the balance between providing quality content and maintaining affordable prices.

Peacock has assured its users that the increase in price will not affect the quality of its content and that it will continue to offer a diverse range of shows and movies. The streaming service has also promised to introduce new features and improve user experience in the coming months.

For those who are already subscribed to Peacock’s premium tier, this price hike will not affect them, and they will continue to enjoy unlimited access to all of the platform’s content. However, for those on the basic plan, the $3 increase may seem like a significant jump, but it is still relatively lower than the prices of other streaming services.

In conclusion, Peacock’s decision to raise its prices is a reflection of the growing demand for online content and the need to keep up with the competition. While this may be an inconvenience for some users, it is a necessary step for the streaming service to continue providing high-quality content and stay relevant in the ever-changing landscape of online streaming.

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The Late Show with Stephen Colbert will end next year

CBS announced on Monday that it will be putting an end to the iconic ‘Late Show’ franchise, which has been a staple of late-night television for decades. The decision was made as part of a “financial decision” to cut costs within the network.

The ‘Late Show’ franchise, which includes the popular shows ‘Late Show with David Letterman’ and ‘Late Show with Stephen Colbert’, has been a mainstay in the late-night television landscape since 1993. The shows have featured some of the biggest names in entertainment and have become known for their comedic and political commentary.

However, as the media landscape continues to shift and with the rise of streaming services, traditional networks like CBS have been facing financial challenges. In a statement, the network explained their decision to retire the ‘Late Show’ franchise, saying, “We have made the difficult decision to retire the ‘Late Show’ franchise in order to cut costs and remain competitive in the current media landscape.”

While the news may come as a shock to fans of the franchise, CBS has assured that they will continue to support their current late-night programming, including ‘The Late Late Show with James Corden’ and ‘The Late Show with Stephen Colbert’. The network also plans to introduce new late-night shows in the near future.

The decision to retire the ‘Late Show’ franchise is just the latest in a series of cost-cutting moves made by CBS. Last month, the network announced that they would be merging with Viacom to form a new company, ViacomCBS, in an effort to cut costs and remain competitive in the ever-evolving media landscape.

The announcement has sparked mixed reactions among fans and industry experts. Some have expressed disappointment at the end of an era, while others have pointed out that the move was inevitable as networks struggle to adapt to the changing media landscape.

One thing is for sure, the retirement of the ‘Late Show’ franchise will leave a void in the late-night television scene. The shows have not only entertained audiences but have also been a platform for important discussions and political commentary. The loss of the franchise will be felt not just by fans but also by the industry as a whole.

As for the future of late-night television, only time will tell how the landscape will continue to evolve. But one thing is certain, the ‘Late Show’ franchise will always be remembered as a groundbreaking and iconic part of late-night television history.

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Fox News’ Kat Timpf shares health update ahead of planned absence from Gutfeld

Kat Timpf, the well-known comedian and political commentator, has recently opened up about her battle with breast cancer. The 32-year-old was diagnosed with the disease in February, just hours before she gave birth to her daughter. Timpf, who is known for her sharp wit and comedic delivery, shared her story on social media, inspiring many with her strength and determination.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Timpf revealed that she had found a lump in her breast during her pregnancy. After undergoing a biopsy, she received the shocking news that it was cancerous. The comedian, who is also a contributor to Fox News, wrote, “I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I’m 32. I was also six months pregnant. I didn’t know how to tell anyone. I was terrified.”

Timpf’s diagnosis came as a shock to many, as breast cancer is not common in women under the age of 40. According to the American Cancer Society, only about 5% of breast cancer cases occur in women under 40. However, Timpf’s pregnancy may have played a role in her diagnosis. Pregnancy causes hormonal changes that can increase the risk of breast cancer, especially in women over 30.

Despite her fears, Timpf bravely underwent surgery just hours after giving birth to her daughter. The surgery involved a lumpectomy, where the cancerous tumor was removed. Timpf’s doctors also recommended chemotherapy and radiation to prevent the cancer from spreading. However, the new mother decided to delay the treatment until she had finished breastfeeding her daughter.

Timpf’s decision to delay treatment was met with criticism from some, who believed she was putting her health at risk. However, the comedian stood by her decision, stating that she wanted to give her daughter the best start in life. In an interview with People, Timpf said, “I want my daughter to be as healthy as possible. I wanted to give her the best start.”

Now, over six months after her diagnosis, Timpf has completed her chemotherapy and radiation treatments. She took to social media to share the good news, writing, “I am officially done with chemo and radiation! Hallelujah!” Timpf also thanked her doctors and nurses for their support and care throughout her journey.

Timpf’s story has inspired many, especially young women, to be proactive about their health. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide, and early detection is crucial for successful treatment. Timpf’s diagnosis highlights the importance of regular screenings and self-examinations, even for women under 40.

In addition to raising awareness about breast cancer, Timpf also used her platform to advocate for paid parental leave. The comedian, who is a vocal supporter of paid leave, shared her own experience of trying to balance work and motherhood while undergoing cancer treatment. She urged companies to prioritize the well-being of their employees, especially new mothers.

Timpf’s journey with breast cancer may have been unexpected, but her strength and resilience have inspired many. She continues to use her platform to raise awareness about important issues and spread positivity. As she continues to recover and enjoy motherhood, Timpf’s story serves as a reminder that no matter what life throws your way, you can overcome it with determination and a positive attitude.

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‘Eddington’ Review: Once Upon a Time in the Pandemic – The New York Times

Ari Aster, the master of horror, has once again captivated audiences with his latest film, “Eddington.” The movie, set in the early days of the pandemic, follows the story of a young woman named Eddington as she navigates through a world filled with fear and uncertainty.

The film has received rave reviews for its ability to capture the tension and anxiety of the pandemic, while also delving into themes of conspiracy and paranoia. “Eddington” takes the audience on a journey through the mind of its main character, as she struggles to distinguish between reality and her own fears.

The film has been praised for its unique and thought-provoking take on the pandemic, with NPR calling it a “tightly-wound and intense fever dream.” The New York Times also praised the film, stating that “Aster once again proves his mastery of dread and tension in this gripping tale.” However, not all reviews have been positive, with The Washington Post describing the film as “weirdly off-putting and disjointed.”

One of the most striking aspects of “Eddington” is its relevance to the current state of the world. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to ravage the globe, the film serves as a reflection of the fears and anxieties that many individuals are facing. The Los Angeles Times even goes as far as to say that “doomscrolling,” the act of endlessly scrolling through negative news, is a disease depicted in the film.

The film’s director, Ari Aster, has become known for his ability to create tension and horror through everyday settings and experiences. His previous films, “Hereditary” and “Midsommar,” have both been critically acclaimed for their ability to unsettle and terrify audiences. With “Eddington,” Aster once again proves his mastery of the horror genre, while also tackling timely and relevant themes.

The film’s lead actress, Florence Pugh, delivers a captivating performance as Eddington. Pugh is no stranger to horror, having starred in the 2019 film “Midsommar,” also directed by Aster. Her performance has been praised for its ability to capture the emotions and struggles of her character, as she grapples with the unknown and the possibility of a sinister conspiracy.

Overall, “Eddington” offers a unique and chilling take on the pandemic, delving into themes of fear, isolation, and paranoia. With its gripping storyline and stellar performances, the film is sure to leave a lasting impact on audiences. Whether you’re a fan of horror or simply looking for a thought-provoking and timely film, “Eddington” is a must-see. The film is now available for streaming on various platforms.

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