Latest news with #JacobWackerhausen
CNET
a day ago
- CNET
Home Swatting: I Asked Police for Details, Here's What I Learned About This Crime Trend
In recent years I've seen a disturbing trend grow around the world -- prank calls made to emergency services, like 911, that claim someone is dangerous and armed at a specific address, aka swatting. More often than not, this leads to law enforcement surrounding an innocent home and person inside, with potentially lethal consequences. Yes, it's very illegal harassment, but it keeps on happening. Swatting began in the gaming world as a particularly malicious joke after a bad game, related to doxxing people and making online threats. But it's grown since then, with swatting becoming a consequence of political disagreements, neighborhood feuds and teenage dares. It's also grown more sophisticated, with websites and apps springing up that let you spoof your phone number (or using a VoIP service) and disguise your voice. Some even hack into vulnerable security cameras when they do it. Obviously, that's a huge headache for anyone from gamers to public figures, so it's no surprise if you're wondering about the chances of getting swatted too. I spoke with law enforcement and emergency response specialists to get the good news, the bad news and everything in between on home swatting, including what you can do to stay as safe as possible. First, the good news about swatting Many police departments are now ready for swatting problems. Jacob Wackerhausen via Getty Swatting has been around long enough that law enforcement and emergency communication centers are generally aware of it. The FBI continues to issue guidance alerts, including the latest public service announcement from April 2025. That means swatting is a bit less likely to work since responders are increasingly aware of swatting signs, like spoofed or blocked numbers, a lack of background noises, a lack of nearby confirming calls and a caller who cannot confirm key details. I reached out to the Portland Police Bureau to learn more. Public Information Officer Sergeant Kevin Allen had encouraging information. "Every time I have heard about it happening, the initially responding patrol officers have done a phenomenal job of vetting the call and determining that it is not legitimate." That's helping to avoid the fear, money and time that is wasted when people are swatted. The FBI has worked to raise awareness of swatting, too. And despite the dangers, deaths resulting from swatting are very, very low and confined to a handful of tragic cases, such as a case in Kansas in 2017 and another in Tennessee in 2020. And now that a number of swatters have been sentenced to serious prison time, internet trolls know they can face real consequences. However, the problem is that the allegations in swatting are so serious -- like murder, kidnapping, bomb threats, etc. -- that emergency services generally have to investigate. And police don't always know if it's a swatting case until they arrive at an address and check it out, which is why it can be so dangerous. But there are safety measures that you and your friends and family can take. What to do if you think you've been swatted You can prepare for swatting if you believe you've been threatened. kali9 via Getty If you've gotten threatening messages or other signs that make you think that you've just been swatted or that you will be swatted soon, there are a few important things you can do right away to stay safe. Contact law enforcement Reach out to your local police and explain the problem. "If someone thinks they might be targeted, it's a good idea to file an informational police report about it," Allen said. "Responding officers would have access to that typically, and that would help." Responses to worries about swatting can vary, but sometimes reporting that you're worried you've been swatted will be able to help. "Here in Portland, officers may set up a perimeter around a residence and try to make phone contact," Allen mentioned, "So having an accurate and current name and phone number in the system is really helpful." Also contact your local emergency communications center and explain the issue to them. Often, they'll also be able to put in a note for your address that says you are worried that you've been swatted. Get loved ones to a safe place If possible, relocate pets and family until the swatting danger appears to have passed. You may not have a lot of time, but do what you can to make sure arriving police officers won't be running into your pets or scaring any children. Stay aware and alert If you get threatening messages in a game or online forum, take them seriously and start paying attention for signs of swatting. "It's smart to maintain some awareness about what's happening in your home," Sergeant Allen advised. "Sometimes we find people are home alone, playing video games with their sound-blocking headphones and can't hear us calling, knocking or 'loud hailing' -- that's when we use a loudspeaker to call into a home." Prep your home for a visit Remember, law enforcement is often required to investigate swatting claims even if it's a prank. That means you may still get a visit even if you do everything right. Store any weapons you have and prepare to greet police. When I talked with John Chiaramonte, president of consulting services at 911 facilitator Mission Critical Partners, he suggested, "Stay calm, follow police commands and avoid sudden with commands and clarify when it's safe. Afterward, file a report and preserve any threatening messages." Chiaramonte believes that additional federal legislation should address swatting, but for now he said to remember that police officers often believe it's a real emergency. "Awareness, preparation and communication can help ensure a safe outcome," he said. How to avoid being swatted You can help lower the risk of swatting if you think you may be a target. Maria Korneeva via Getty "It's difficult to 'prevent' swatting," Sergeant Allen told me. Swatting is frightening because it's uncontrollable, and you usually don't know when or even why it's happening. But there are several practical steps that can reduce your risk, especially when it comes to the internet hordes. Turn off location services : If your gaming platform or communication hub uses location-based services, turn them off when possible. They make it much easier to find your real address online. You can usually find these settings in your profile or data-sharing sections of the apps you use. : If your gaming platform or communication hub uses location-based services, turn them off when possible. They make it much easier to find your real address online. You can usually find these settings in your profile or data-sharing sections of the apps you use. Wipe your address from the internet : "Review your online presence for sensitive personal information that could enable malicious actors to conduct a swatting attack," the FBI suggests. I have a full guide on how to do this here. You can't usually scrub your address everywhere, but you can make it a lot harder to find. Steps like using a P.O. Box and sending requests to take down personal contact info can make a big difference. Plus, you may get less junk mail. : "Review your online presence for sensitive personal information that could enable malicious actors to conduct a swatting attack," the FBI suggests. I have a full guide on how to do this here. You can't usually scrub your address everywhere, but you can make it a lot harder to find. Steps like using a P.O. Box and sending requests to take down personal contact info can make a big difference. Plus, you may get less junk mail. Don't share your address on social media or other sites : From your profile info to other ID data, don't include information on your address or the city you live in on any social media that you use. If you use a payment service, create a separate one for your online activities that doesn't have your real name attached. "Exercise care when posting content (including photos and videos) or sharing it with individuals online," the FBI reminds. That includes platforms like Reddit, Discord or Twitch. : From your profile info to other ID data, don't include information on your address or the city you live in on any social media that you use. If you use a payment service, create a separate one for your online activities that doesn't have your real name attached. "Exercise care when posting content (including photos and videos) or sharing it with individuals online," the FBI reminds. That includes platforms like Reddit, Discord or Twitch. Use a VPN if worried : A VPN can make it much harder to track your IP address and similar info that could be used to identify your location by a more determined swatter. If you're worried and you aren't already using a VPN, this is an excellent opportunity to get one. : A VPN can make it much harder to track your IP address and similar info that could be used to identify your location by a more determined swatter. If you're worried and you aren't already using a VPN, this is an excellent opportunity to get one. Remember, swatting thrives on conflict: Unless you are a celebrity, swatting usually has some purpose or triggering event behind it. The more you avoid open conflict online and if you, well, generally avoid being an asshole, the less likely it is someone will swat you. Do you need to worry about accidentally swatting someone? Not really. If you're as honest as possible with emergency services, they should be able to help you out even if you accidentally get an address wrong or lose your train of thought. But it's a good idea to take a deep breath and try not to flub any details if you're dialing 911 in an emergency. For more helpful info from our experts, check out the best home security systems, how to update your smart home passwords and if you need to worry about any kinds of smart home hacking.
Black America Web
2 days ago
- Health
- Black America Web
7 Everyday Uses For Organic Coconut Oil
Source: Jacob Wackerhausen / Getty The beauty trend 'Black Girl Hygiene Routine' is currently occupying my TikTok feed. Rows of body washes, oils, exfoliating gloves, probiotics, tongue scrapers, herbs, and serums—all organized with precision and narrated with pride. And rightfully so. There's something powerful about seeing Black women create a space for themselves that's the gold standard of soft, sacred, luxurious care. But what makes me smile most is the way so many of those routines include the one thing that's been a staple in our community for generations, coconut oil. While the algorithm is just catching on, we been knew. Coconut oil has been in our bathrooms, kitchens, and medicine cabinets long before it was trending. Long before hashtags and Amazon storefronts, our mamas, aunties, and grandmothers were teaching us how to stay clean, moisturized, and ready. One of the first lessons I ever got in holistic hygiene came from my mother, a Southern Black woman with wisdom laced in everything she did. She taught me how to oil pull with coconut oil for fresh breath and gum health—before I ever heard the term 'oral microbiome.' Back then, it wasn't a wellness trend. It was tradition. So let me tell you why coconut oil is not only TikTok-approved, but soul-approved—and why every woman, especially Black women, should always have a few bottles in her life. 1. It's The Original Multi-Tasker—Because Simplicity Is Luxury We live in a time where everybody's trying to sell you something new. But coconut oil is that old-school, ride-or-die kind of product that shows up for you every time. It's moisturizer, deep conditioner, lip balm, shaving oil, cooking base, wood polish, diaper rash treatment—and still has room to surprise you. When life is complicated, this one simple jar feels like peace. And that's a luxury our mamas and grandmamas understood without needing to hashtag it. 2. It Loves On Our Hair—Because Black Hair Deserves Deep, Intentional Nourishment There's nothing like the bond between a Black woman and her hair. And coconut oil has been part of that story for generations. Whether it's massaging it into your scalp with a little peppermint oil, blending it into your shea butter mix, or using it to seal in moisture after a twist-out, coconut oil is the truth. It strengthens, softens, and adds shine without weighing down the hair. And when used with care, it becomes more than a product—it's a ritual. One that reconnects us to our roots—literally and spiritually. 3. It Heals And Protects Our Skin—Because Black Don't Crack…But We Still Moisturize Yes, sis—Black don't crack. But let's be real: it still gets dry, ashy, irritated, and exposed to the same environmental stressors as everyone else. Coconut oil is a blessing for melanin-rich skin. It helps fade scars, soothe eczema, soften stretch marks, and protect that glow we were born with. Use it straight out the shower. Add it to a sugar scrub. Mix it with lavender oil and give yourself a foot rub like the queen you are. Your skin will thank you—and your selfies will show it. 4. It Removes Makeup Gently—Because Softness Is A Form of Strength At the end of the day, when the lashes come off and the beat gets wiped away, you need something that respects your face as much as you do. Coconut oil gently dissolves even waterproof makeup without irritation. No burning, no tugging. Just smooth removal and moisturized skin underneath. It's like the softest goodbye—because even when you're taking it all off, you deserve tenderness. 5. It Supports Feminine Health—Because Every Part of You Deserves Care Our intimate areas need love too, and coconut oil can offer gentle support when used wisely. It can ease vaginal dryness, reduce friction, and soothe irritation. And because it's naturally antimicrobial, it can even help rebalance external areas after shaving or waxing. But here's what my mother taught me: just because it's natural doesn't mean you shouldn't be mindful. Use it clean. Use it pure. And use it with respect for your body. You are sacred, sis. Treat yourself like it. 6. It Cleanses From The Inside Out—Thank You, Mama I know oil pulling has been rediscovered by wellness girlies everywhere now—but let the record show: my mama did it first. She'd grab a spoonful of organic coconut oil, swish it around her mouth while boiling her morning tea, then spit it out like it was part of communion. She swore by it for fresh breath, gum strength, and gut health. And she was right. These days, I do it too—every morning. Not because it's trending, but because it works. It reminds me that Black women have always had sacred knowledge about our bodies. And coconut oil? That's one of the things we've been holding close all along. 7. It's More Than A Product—It's Ancestral Wisdom In A Jar The girls on TikTok are making hygiene glamorous, and I love that for us. But beneath the aesthetics and Amazon links is something deeper: a reclamation. We're not just keeping clean—we're keeping sacred. We're saying, 'My body deserves to be honored, daily.' And coconut oil is part of that daily devotion. Whether it's healing our skin, softening our hair, or being spooned into our mouths like my mama taught me—it's a reminder of who we are. Of how we care for ourselves and for one another. Whether you found out about coconut oil from your mama, your big sister, or your FYP on TikTok, just know this: it belongs in your life. Keep a jar in the bathroom. One in the kitchen. One in your bag just in case the day asks more of you than you planned. Because coconut oil is more than a trend. It's ancestral wisdom in a jar. SEE ALSO 7 Everyday Uses For Organic Coconut Oil was originally published on Black America Web Featured Video CLOSE
Newsweek
3 days ago
- Business
- Newsweek
Best Mattress
Airweave Photo courtesy of Airweave Photo courtesy of Airweave Drift off to sleep on air with Airweave's innovation. Each mattress's interior is filled with its unique Airfiber blocks—available in three levels of firmness—made of 90% air for unmatched breathability, and the outer cover can easily be removed for washing. What people really love, though, is the ability to mix and match the Airfiber blocks to craft the perfect amount of support for their neck, back and legs. Avocado Photo courtesy of Avocado Photo courtesy of Avocado Durable organic latex, GOTS-certified organic wool and luxuriously soft organic cotton all combine to create a sumptuous, sustainable mattress. Avocado allows you to build your ideal sleep experience with the original Green Mattress, which has seven ergonomic zones and up to 1,379 individually wrapped coils for maximum support. And then, you can add a pillow-top or box-top for an extra plush finish if you enjoy a softer feel. Casper Photo courtesy of Casper Photo courtesy of Casper A pioneer in the bed-in-a-box market, Casper has been evolving its mattresses over the last 10 years (with its team of sleep engineers and ergonomists) to continually offer a better product that provides the best sleep. One of its most lauded inventions is the Snow technology, which pulls body heat away from you as you snooze, all while Casper's responsive coils and memory foam gently cradle you. Helix Photo courtesy of Helix Photo courtesy of Helix From the Core line to the Luxe and Elite collections, Helix mattresses are customizable according to your preference and come in soft, medium and firm support. If you're not sure which option to select, there's a handy sleep quiz that pairs you with your ideal mattress. The Helix Kids version is also popular with parents, as it has a two-sided design that flips to fit your child's growing body. King Koil Photo courtesy of findfootagehq/iStock by Getty Images Photo courtesy of findfootagehq/iStock by Getty Images Whether you're searching for a hybrid foam-and-coil model or a classic pillow-topped option, King Koil's line of mattresses is sure to have what you need. Many of its styles feature Tailormade Tufting, which prevents shifting and sagging, and Joma Wool, a flame-resistant and water-repellent material that breathes beautifully. Interested in tracking your sleep? Consider the Smart Life mattress that delivers sleep data to your phone each morning. Lull Photo courtesy of Jacob Wackerhausen/iStock by Getty Images Photo courtesy of Jacob Wackerhausen/iStock by Getty Images Budget friendly and great for back sleepers, the mattress from Lull supplies just the right amount of firmness without leaving your wallet feeling light. Every mattress includes free shipping, sending it right to your doorstep in an easy-to-move box in case you need to carry it upstairs. Extras like a pillow, sheet set and mattress protector also come with each mattress purchase for an even better deal. Nectar Photo courtesy of Nectar Photo courtesy of Nectar Sink into soft layers of comfort each night when you choose the award-winning Nectar mattress. The top layer is cool to the touch and finished with an antimicrobial treatment to keep the fabric fresh while three levels of memory foam offer pressure relief, responsive support and motion isolation. Even though it's reasonably priced, the 100% risk-free 365-night home trial provides extra peace of mind. Nest Bedding Photo courtesy of Nest Bedding Photo courtesy of Nest Bedding If you're looking for a mattress to outlast a few years, Nest Bedding may be your winner. It focuses on quality and longevity by offering USA-made mattresses that are thoughtfully crafted with clean materials and renewable designs. Tip: If you ever feel your mattress has worn down, you can take advantage of Nest's Lifetime Renewal Exchange for a new comfort layer. Purple Photo courtesy of Pyrosky/iStock by Getty Images Photo courtesy of Pyrosky/iStock by Getty Images You'll be counting sheep in no time with Purple, thanks to its patented GelFlex Grid that relieves pressure points, provides support and keeps you cool. You can confer with a Sleep Genius to determine which mattress is right for you, from the original with its breathable, adaptable waffle top layer to the RejuvenatePremier Mattress that uses a layered grid technology with Dynamic Grid Support coils to give even better sleep. Saatva Photo courtesy of Saatva Photo courtesy of Saatva Although an investment, the mattresses from Saatva come with a 365-night home trial and a lifetime warranty, promising you'll either love it or get your money back! Every mattress is made in the United States, utilizing a mix of green, recycled, organic and sustainable materials for features like a plush, hypoallergenic Euro pillow top, supportive memory foam and responsive coils. Sealy Photo courtesy of Sealy Photo courtesy of Sealy One of the most popular, longstanding mattress brands in America, Sealy has been lulling consumers to sleep since the 1880s, and while Sealy produces plenty of excellent models, users praise its Posturepedic line, constructed with the help of orthopedic specialists for full-body support. Each mattress features PrecisionFit Coils to maintain natural body alignment, moisture-wicking covers to keep bodies cool and gel memory foam for extra comfort. Sleep Number Photo courtesy of Sleep Number Photo courtesy of Sleep Number With a commitment to helping people improve their sleep quality, Sleep Number works with world-renowned scientists to create its mattresses. In addition to its beloved adjustable bases, which stop snoring with the touch of a button, this brand's innovations include built-in foot warming to help you fall asleep faster and ClimateCool, dropping the temperature 11 degrees in just five minutes to ensure you snooze comfortably the whole night. Sleepy's (Mattress Firm) Photo courtesy of Mattress Firm Photo courtesy of Mattress Firm What began as a single mattress shop in 1931 is now a brand available in over 3,500 stores nationwide. Sleepy's, acquired by Mattress Firm in 2015, offers a range of affordable options, from its 10" Medium Memory Foam RV Mattress to the Basic Hybrid Mattress, designed for back, side and stomach sleepers. A nice perk is that several of its models can be paired with an adjustable base. Stearns & Foster Photo courtesy of Stearns & Foster Photo courtesy of Stearns & Foster Stearns & Foster has been making mattresses for over 175 years, so this company knows how to create the conditions for a magnificent night of sleep. Within days of receiving an order, Stearns & Foster begins handcrafting the requested mattress, using its exclusive IntelliCoil technology and a team of craftspeople who hand-stitch the luxurious layers into a work of art. Tempur-Pedic Photo courtesy of Tempur-Pedic Photo courtesy of Tempur-Pedic Continually ranking high in customer satisfaction, Tempur-Pedic mattresses instinctively mold to your body's weight, shape and temperature for soundless sleep all night long. If you sleep alongside someone who constantly moves, the motion absorption material will make it feel like you're sleeping alone, and if you often wake up hot, you may enjoy the mattresses in the Tempur-Breeze collection, which feel up to 10 degrees cooler.
Newsweek
5 days ago
- General
- Newsweek
Mom's Shocking Reason for Firing 'Great' Babysitter Baffles Internet: 'Makes No Sense'
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A professional nanny said she was fired from a new job just two weeks in—because the baby she was caring for slept too well. In a Reddit post, the nanny shared her confusion after being told that the infant's long naps were the reason she was being let go. Gut Feeling The 4-month-old had been sleeping two hours in the morning and another two in the afternoon, which the nanny explained is not only normal, but healthy for that age. "I really don't understand it," the original poster (OP) wrote, noting she had frequently offered to wake the baby if asked, "But she said she wanted him to wake up on his own, like he does with her." The mother apparently cried during the termination and said she had a gut feeling about trying someone else. According to the nanny, the mother said there were no other issues and even offered to serve as a reference and to pay for the final two unused days. Stock image: Upset woman in car. Stock image: Upset woman in car. Jacob Wackerhausen/iStock/Getty Images Plus Despite the amicable tone, the decision left the nanny sad and confused, especially given her years of experience and desire to follow the family's preferences closely. Many Reddit users responding to the post suggested the mother's decision might stem from a deeper issue. As one person offered, "Honestly, it sounds like postpartum anxiety and there is literally nothing you could have done differently." Another person pointed out that, "4-month-old babies should be sleeping about 15 hours a day so two, two hours naps a day is not at all unreasonable. In fact, I think it's great that the baby is able to take long naps on a schedule." Others took a more humorous tone: "Now please come over to my place and get my baby to take two solid naps, I'm begging," a supporter said. Dr. Melanie McCabe told Newsweek that the postpartum period can be both joyful and deeply challenging. However, while the arrival of a new baby is often celebrated, the physical, emotional and psychological transitions that accompany this time are frequently overlooked. For many new mothers, this phase can include significant anxiety—affecting an estimated 1-in-5 women, the psychologist in North Carolina said. "Postpartum anxiety is characterized by heightened fear or worry, even when the perceived threat is unlikely or unclear," McCabe said. "These emotional experiences often come with what psychologists refer to as action urges—natural impulses that guide how we respond to our emotions. "In the case of fear or worry, the action urge is usually to avoid or escape the perceived danger." McCabe said the best way to support new parents is with empathy, respect and a willingness to understand just how complex this period can be. "When support systems respond with compassion rather than critique, they not only validate the experience of the parents, but also contribute to a healthier environment for the entire family—including the newest member." In a story published by Newsweek, Amanda, a parent who posts under the name That Comfy Mom, shared how she repeatedly woke up to check on her sleeping baby, even though there was no immediate cause for alarm. Other moms responded with similar accounts of staying up to check baby monitors, zooming in to see if their infants were breathing, or waking in panic from vivid dreams. 'Nothing I could do' The nanny in the Reddit account left the job heartbroken, but remained proud of her work. She remained confused that a solution wasn't discussed before the termination. "It just seemed like there was really nothing I could do," the OP lamented. Newsweek has contacted the original poster for comment via Reddit. Newsweek's "What Should I Do?" offers expert advice to readers. If you have a personal dilemma, let us know via life@ We can ask experts for advice on relationships, family, friends, money and work, and your story could be featured on WSID at Newsweek. To read how Newsweek uses AI as a newsroom tool, click here.
Forbes
6 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
Navigate Tariff Challenges With Strategic Pricing Solutions
The global trade environment is in constant flux, with rising tariff rates becoming a significant concern for businesses engaged in international markets. For many industries, these unpredictable changes in trade policies create risks, disrupt supply chains, and impact competitive positioning. Yet for forward-thinking companies, these challenges also present unique opportunities to innovate and gain a competitive edge. Jacob Wackerhausen via Getty Images It's clear businesses must act decisively when navigating this landscape. Adopting flexible, data-driven pricing strategies and dynamic pricing tools can help mitigate risks and uncover new opportunities. Here's how businesses can align their pricing strategy to stay ahead in a tariff-heavy environment. In addition to increasing costs, tariffs can also disrupt the entire value chain, influencing areas like market demand, operational efficiency, and pricing tactics. Recognizing the areas of concern and assessing hidden opportunities are fundamental to responding strategically. Key Risks to Address: Opportunities for Strategic Growth: Even businesses with established pricing models need to rethink their approach in a tariff-heavy economy. Here are practical strategies to implement: A tariff-heavy trade environment demands agility. Businesses that take a proactive approach to pricing are far better equipped to handle sudden fluctuations. This is where technology steps in. Dynamic Pricing is the Key to Agility Dynamic pricing utilizes real-time data to quickly adjust pricing models based on factors like demand and inventory, and external variables such as tariffs or exchange rates. While it may sound complex, businesses that integrate dynamic pricing platforms gain game-changing advantages. Ongoing tariff fluctuations require more than short-term fixes. Companies need to build pricing flexibility into their foundations to remain competitive and profitable. At its core, success in this climate depends on proactive planning, accurate data use, and early adoption of technologies like dynamic pricing and optimization tools. The organizations prioritizing agility and precision today will likely be the leaders of tomorrow. Their ability to make informed decisions, adapt pricing strategies midstream, and maintain profitability despite market disruptions will shape their future success.
