Ant Middleton has come under fire for his comments about the death of his friend Liam Payne.
One Direction singer Liam died on October 16 aged 31 after he fell from his third-floor balcony in Argentina.
Former SAS: Who Dares Wins star Ant was asked about the loss of Liam as he appeared on This Morning today (October 24).
Ant Middleton paid tribute to Liam Payne on This Morning today (Credit: ITV)
Ant Middleton on Liam Payne death
The TV star, who was axed from SAS: Who Dares Wins in 2021 over his ‘personal conduct’, had filmed a TV documentary with Liam in 2019.
Whilst I was on that PR tour in Australia and in the UK, everything sort of segued onto Liam.
The pair joined forces for Ant Middleton and Liam Payne: Straight Talking. During the show, they discussed their mental health struggles.
Talking on This Morning, Ant, 44, said of Liam’s death: “I was on a PR tour for my K2 documentary that airs in Australia today, and my book Military Mindset, that launches today as well.
Liam died on October 16 (Credit: YouTube/ITV)
“Whilst I was on that PR tour in Australia and in the UK, everything sort of segued onto Liam which I don’t mind talking about Liam.
“He was a great friend of mine, a super positive guy. Like Liam said, it’s about the people around you. We can only do so much by ourselves.
“It’s very important, even if it’s just a phone call, just a text… that’s what me and Liam used to do all the time. I used to go and see him at the drop of a hat because I knew he just needed someone by his side.”
Ant came under fire from viewers (Credit: ITV)
This Morning today
Ant also discussed the last time he spoke to Liam. He explained: “I’ve been really busy, and Liam being the megastar that he was, you can imagine how busy he was. So I spoke to him on the phone probably about eight months ago and in texts since.
“At the beginning of the year I was away in Australia doing Dancing with the Stars and now I think, we’re at the end of October already, where did the time go? It only feels like I was at Liam’s yesterday. Of course it does because we’re all so busy.”
He added: “Of course we can do more. Of course lessons like this in such a negative situation we must draw from, must look at the positive and go right, let’s reach out to people. Think, how long ago did I speak to someone? How long ago did I send a text?
“It’s made me think, even if we’re so, so busy with our lives, just if you’ve got five minutes, two minutes, if you’re thinking about someone, don’t just think about them. Let them know that you’re thinking about them.”
Some viewers watching took issue with Ant at the start of the interview, however. One person said on X: “Good to know I wasn’t the only one that thought Ant Middleton mentioning his book and show or whatever when answering how he felt about Liam’s passing.”
Read more: Liam Payne’s girlfriend shares heartbreaking note he ‘told her not to look at’ before his death
Another wrote: “Ben Shephard asked Ant Middleton about Liam Payne. Ant uses the first few seconds to plug his book and tour. Then goes on to talk about him… Nice.”
Someone else added: “Ant using the question about Liam Payne to sell his new book and TV show in Australia is slightly weird.”
This Morning airs weekdays from 10am on ITV1 and ITVX.
What did you think of Ant’s comments? Share your thoughts on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix.
Attention, recruits! It’s time to test combat skills and strategic prowess. Drop into the heart of the action this GFN Thursday with the launch of the highly anticipated first-person blockbuster Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, streaming in the cloud Oct. 24, 9pm PT.
Plus, embark on an adventure to defend an empire in the remake of the classic role-playing game (RPG), Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven.
That’s just the tip of the iceberg. These are part of the nine titles being added to GeForce NOW’s library of over 2,000 games. Members can also look forward to a new reward — a free in-game Stag-Heart Skull Sallet Hat — for the award-winning RPG The Elder Scrolls Online, starting on Thursday, Oct. 31. Get ready by opting into GeForce NOW’s Rewards program today.
Mission Critical
Answering the call.
Get ready, soldiers — the next assignment awaits in the cloud. Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is set against the backdrop of the Gulf War in the early 1990s, and will bring a thrilling Campaign, action-packed Multiplayer and a Zombies experience sure to thrill fans. The new game introduces the Omnimovement system to the franchise, allowing players to sprint, slide and dive in any direction, enhancing tactical gameplay across all modes.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 launches with 16 new Multiplayer maps and two Zombies maps — Terminus and Liberty Falls. In Multiplayer, the classic Prestige system makes a comeback, while the single player Campaign experience promises a gripping espionage narrative. With its blend of historical fiction, gameplay innovations and fan-favorite features, Black Ops 6 aims to deliver an intense Call of Duty experience that pushes the boundaries of the franchise.
Prepare for adrenaline-fueled missions with an Ultimate GeForce NOW membership. These members get an advantage on the field with ultra-low-latency gaming, streaming from a GeForce RTX 4080 gaming rig in the cloud.
Lucky Number Seven
Peace was never an option.
Save the Empire with a little help from the cloud — Romancing SaGa2: Revenge of the Seven is coming to GeForce NOW.
Experience the full remake of Square Enix’s groundbreaking nonlinear RPG, Romancing SaGa2: Revenge of the Seven, first released in 1993 in Japan. The adventure includes both new and classic SaGa franchise features, complete with Japanese and English voiceovers, original and rearranged compositions, and much more. It’s an ideal entry point for new players and provides an amped-up experience for longtime fans.
The game features the Seven Heroes, once hailed as saviors before the ancients feared their power and banished them to another dimension. Thousands of years have passed, and the heroes have become legends. Furious that humankind has forgotten their many sacrifices, they’ve now returned as villains bent on revenge.
Members can join forces with characters from over 30 different classes featuring a wide variety of professions and races, each with their own favored weapons, unique abilities and effective tactics. Ultimate members can stream at up to 4K resolution with extended session lengths and more.
Hircine’s Hunt … From the Cloud
It’s not just a hat, it’s a legacy.
A new game reward has arrived for GeForce NOW members. New and existing The Elder Scrolls Online players can dawn the rare Stag-Heart Skull Sallet Hat, a fierce antlered helm with untamed strength. It’s the perfect way for gamers to forge their legends in Tamriel and stand out during the Witches Festival.
Members who’ve opted into GeForce NOW’s Rewards program can check their email for instructions on how to redeem it. Ultimate and Priority members can start redeeming the reward now, while free members will be able to claim it starting tomorrow, Oct. 25. It’s available through Sunday, Nov. 24, first come, first served.
Play Today
Members can look for the following games available to stream in the cloud this week:
Worshippers of Cthulhu (New release on Steam, Oct. 21)
No More Room in Hell 2 (New release on Steam, Oct. 22)
Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven (New release on Steam, Oct. 24)
Windblown (New release on Steam, Oct. 24)
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 (New release on Steam, Battle.net and Xbox, available on PC Game Pass, Oct. 25)
Call of Duty HQ, including Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III and Call of Duty: Warzone (Xbox, available on PC Game Pass)
DUCKSIDE (Steam)
Off the Grid (Epic Games Store)
Selaco (Steam)
What are you planning to play this weekend? Let us know on X or in the comments below.
the cloud is calling, will you answer? 📱
— 🌩️ NVIDIA GeForce NOW (@NVIDIAGFN) October 23, 2024
CD Projekt Red has officially announced that its playtest program will be coming to the US, which means that residents there could be getting a call to play the new Witcher and Cyberpunk games currently in development.
There are some catches here, as CDPR says it will be selective when it comes to choosing participants. “If your gamer profile aligns with what we’re looking for, we’ll reach out to you either through email or by phone to ask about your upcoming availability. All playtests will be scheduled at least a few days in advance,” CDPR explained on its playtest FAQ page.
We’re bringing our RED Playtesting Program to the United States!If you are:- at least 16 years old- located or ready to travel to Boston, Massachusetts, for onsite activities- passionate about gaming and eager to share your insights- not involved in game development… pic.twitter.com/ov8KDBgAot
— CD PROJEKT RED (@CDPROJEKTRED) October 23, 2024
Other requirements include being at least 16 years old, and participants must not be involved in the game development industry on a professional level. Potential candidates must also reside in Boston or be ready to travel there for onsite activities.
If you meet the criteria, you can log in to your CDPR account and sign up through this form. While there’s no guarantee which CDPR games will be available to playtest, the CDPR Boston studio does include several Cyberpunk 2077 veterans–like quest director Pawel Sasko–who are working on a Cyberpunk sequel.
Cyberpunk 2077’s rough launch led to a massive overhaul at CDPR, and the company has multiple games in development. The Witcher 4 currently has more than 400 people working on it, a remake of the first Witcher is underway, and a new IP called Project Hadar is also being worked on.
Formal shirts are an indispensable part of every man’s wardrobe. Whether you’re heading to the office, attending a wedding, or simply want to look polished, a well-fitted formal shirt can elevate your appearance instantly. But beyond just owning a few, knowing how to style them can make a world of difference.
This blog will cover some simple but impactful styling hacks for formal shirts for men, including how to work with check shirts, so you can always look your best.
1. Nail the Fit
The most important aspect of wearing formal shirts for men is the fit. Even the most expensive shirt won’t look good if it doesn’t fit well. When choosing a formal shirt, pay attention to three main areas: the shoulders, chest, and length.
Shoulders: The seam should sit directly on your shoulder line.Chest: There should be enough room to move comfortably, but not so much that the fabric billows.Length: Your shirt should be long enough to tuck in without constantly coming undone.
A perfectly fitted shirt is the foundation of a sharp look.
2. Choose the Right Collar Style
There are several types of collars available for formal mens luxury shirts, and each suits different face shapes and occasions. Here are some common collar styles:
Point Collar: The most traditional and versatile collar style. Works well for men with round or wide faces as it elongates the neck.Spread Collar: Great for a modern, trendy look. Ideal for men with narrow faces.Button-Down Collar: This is more casual but can be worn in less formal settings or with check shirts for a smart-casual vibe.
Pick the collar style that complements your facial structure and the occasion.
3. Master the Art of Layering
Layering adds a touch of sophistication to your outfit, and it’s a great way to keep warm during colder months while staying stylish.
Blazers and Suits: A classic option for formal occasions. Choose a blazer or suit jacket that complements the color and pattern of your shirt. Navy and charcoal work well with most shirt colors.Sweaters and Vests: For a more casual, preppy look, wear a sweater or vest over your formal shirt. This works especially well with check shirts, adding texture and depth to your outfit.
Make sure your layers aren’t too bulky, as you want to maintain a streamlined silhouette.
4. Tucking in the Shirt Properly
A tucked-in formal shirt is a must for professional settings, but how you tuck it in matters. The most common and effective way to tuck in a shirt is the military tuck. Here’s how you do it:
Step 1: Pull your shirt down so it sits flat against your torso.Step 2: Pinch the fabric at the sides and fold it back to create a slimmer look around your waist.Step 3: Tuck the shirt into your trousers and make sure it stays in place throughout the day.
This method ensures that your shirt doesn’t bunch up, keeping you looking sharp and neat.
5. Accessorize Smartly
Accessories can take your formal shirt styling to the next level. Here’s what to consider:
Ties: A well-chosen tie can transform your look. If you’re wearing a plain shirt, opt for a patterned tie, and if you’re wearing a check shirt, stick to solid colors or subtle patterns.Pocket Squares: These are excellent for adding a pop of color and personality to your outfit. A pocket square in a contrasting color can bring your ensemble together.Cufflinks: If your shirt has French cuffs, cufflinks are a must. Choose elegant, understated designs for formal events, and you can be a bit more playful for less formal occasions.
6. Play with Patterns and Colors
While plain white and blue shirts are classic, don’t be afraid to experiment with patterns and colors. Check shirts are a fantastic way to break the monotony of solid colors. Here’s how to incorporate them into your wardrobe:
Subtle Checks for Formal Events: Choose smaller check patterns in muted colors like navy, grey, or burgundy. These can easily be paired with a suit and tie without looking too casual.Bolder Checks for Casual Fridays: Larger check patterns work well for business-casual settings. Pair these shirts with chinos or dark jeans for a laid-back yet stylish look.
Remember, the key to pulling off a check shirt is to balance it with neutral tones in the rest of your outfit.
7. Cuff and Sleeve Game
How you wear your shirt sleeves can drastically change your overall appearance. For formal events, always keep your sleeves buttoned at the cuff and wear them properly under a blazer or suit. However, for a more relaxed look:
Rolling Up Sleeves: This is a great way to transition from a formal to a casual look during the day. To roll up sleeves neatly:Unbutton the cuff and fold the sleeve back once.Fold again, ensuring the roll stops below the elbow for a clean finish.
Rolling up your sleeves can also help showcase any accessories like a wristwatch or bracelets.
8. Pairing with the Right Trousers and Shoes
The choice of trousers and shoes can make or break your formal shirt look. Here’s what to consider:
Trousers: For a formal setting, always go for tailored trousers in neutral colors like black, navy, or grey. If you’re wearing a check shirt, opt for solid-colored trousers to avoid clashing patterns.Shoes: Classic leather shoes are your best bet. For a more casual setting, you can also pair formal shirts with loafers or brogues.
Make sure your trousers and shoes complement the overall color scheme of your outfit.
FAQs:
1. How should I choose the right fit for a formal shirt?
The key areas to focus on are the shoulders, chest, and length. The shoulder seams should align with your shoulders, the chest should have enough room for comfort without being too loose, and the shirt should be long enough to stay tucked in throughout the day.
2. Can I wear check shirts for formal occasions?
Yes, you can wear check shirts for formal occasions if the pattern is subtle and the colors are muted, like navy, grey, or burgundy. Pair it with solid-colored trousers and a blazer for a polished look.
3. What accessories should I pair with formal shirts?
Ties, pocket squares, and cufflinks are great accessories for formal shirts. Choose a tie that complements the shirt, a pocket square for a pop of color, and elegant cufflinks if you’re wearing French cuffs.
Conclusion
Formal shirts for men are versatile and stylish, but knowing how to wear and style them properly is key to looking polished. From mastering the fit to accessorizing smartly and experimenting with patterns like check shirts, these hacks will help you step up your formal shirt game. Incorporate these styling tips into your wardrobe, and you’ll always make a lasting impression, whether in the office or at a formal event.
Martha Stewart is looking back on life behind bars — including a stint in solitary confinement.
In 2004, the lifestyle entrepreneur was sentenced to five months in federal prison after being found guilty of conspiracy to obstruct and making false statements to federal investigators in connection with an insider trading case.
Stewart, 83, looks back on her imprisonment at Federal Prison Camp Alderson in West Virginia — which was nicknamed Camp Cupcake upon Stewart’s stay — in an upcoming Netflix documentary, Martha, including how she was placed in solitary confinement for touching a prison guard.
“Today I saw two very well-dressed ladies walking and I breezed by them, remarking on the beautiful warm morning and how nice they looked,” Stewart wrote in a letter from prison which is read out in the documentary, per People. “When I realized from the big silver key chain that they were guards, I lightly brushed the chain. Later I was called in to be told never, ever touch a guard without expecting severe reprimand.”
Related: Jen Shah, Elizabeth Holmes and More Celebs Who Became Friends in Prison
Plenty of celebrities have gone to prison and made lasting friendships on the inside, but only a handful get the chance to bond with other famous people. Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino — who spent eight months in New York’s FCI Otisville — connected with not one but two big names while he was serving time […]
Speaking on camera, Stewart says the “incident was so minor when it occurred” that she didn’t expect any punishment to follow.
But she soon realized she was wrong.
Martha StewartCourtesy of Netflix
“I was dragged into solitary for touching an officer,” Stewart says in the documentary. “No food or water for a day. This was Camp Cupcake, remember? That was the nickname. Camp Cupcake. It was not a cupcake.”
A Federal Bureau of Prisons representative told Us Weekly in a statement, “The FBOP confines offenders in facilities that are safe and humane. Every individual is provided with the basic necessities of life including regular meals three times a day and access to potable water regardless of where they are housed. We respectfully decline to address allegations from 2004. Generally speaking, FBOP has important practices in place to review any placement in restrictive housing and takes seriously, and refers to appropriate investigative authorities, allegations of retaliation against adults in custody.”
Stewart’s prison letters also detailed her living conditions during her five-month stint at FPC Alderson.
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Related: Martha Stewart’s Shadiest Quotes About Celebs, Business and More
Martha knows best? Martha Stewart is known for speaking her mind when it comes to fellow stars, the business world and more hot-button issues. In fact, she often sparks controversy with her snarky opinions. The businesswoman is perhaps as associated with her empire as she is with her ongoing feud with Gwyneth Paltrow regarding her […]
“My room contains an old double-decker bedstead metal spring and metal frame,” she wrote. “The springs are very saggy and thus an unhealthy bed set. I would actually prefer the top but over 62 years old and you automatically are given a lower bunk.”
Martha StewartKevin Mazur/Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Netflix
Stewart also noted the low standards for food in the prison, writing, “What worries me is the very poor quality of the food and the unavailability of fresh anything as there are many starches and many carbs, many fat foods. No pure anything.”
Martha premieres Wednesday, October 30, on Netflix.
Are you curious about creating NFTs but need help figuring out where to begin? With all the hype around NFTs, it is normal to feel confused and overwhelmed by the technical terms and processes. But you know what? Making an NFT is simpler. Today, I will take you through a step-by-step guide about how to create an NFT. Sounds good? Let’s dive in!
Before diving into the process, let’s quickly cover the basics for anyone new to the space. An NFT, or non-fungible token, is a unique digital asset that represents ownership of a specific item – be it artwork, music, a video, or virtual real estate plots. Unlike cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum, which are interchangeable, each NFT is one-of-a-kind and cannot be replaced with something else.
Now let’s jump into how you can create an NFT.
Tools and Platforms for Creating NFTs:
Before creating an NFT, there are a few fundamental components that must be in place. I’ll discuss it in detail.
1. A Virtual Wallet:
Source: nftify.network
To create Non-fungible Tokens, it is important to point out that you would also need a cryptocurrency wallet because, for almost all the NFT platforms, Ethereum (ETH) is used for transactions including for minting NFT. Some of the well-known wallets are:
MetaMask: MetaMask is a browser server extension that acts as both a wallet and a doorway to the Ethereum applications.
Coinbase Wallet: Coinbase is linked to the popular exchange, this is user-friendly for beginners.
Trust Wallet: Trust wallet is a decentralized wallet that is not only for storing coins but also for different cryptocurrencies and NFT stock cards.
But do you have to buy the cryptocurrency to start?
Yes, usually you need to have some Ethereum in your wallet to pay for minting. But don’t worry, we’ll talk about that in a bit.
2. An NFT Platform:
Source: yrcharisma.com
After configuring your wallet, the next step is to find a place where you can create and market your NFT. Numerous well-known NFT platforms are available today, each with slightly different capabilities. The leading ones include:
OpenSea: OpenSea is the largest and most frequently visited marketplace, which provides a unique form of customer service for most, if not all, digital assets.
Rarible: Rarible is a platform focused on the community that allows users to create, purchase, and sell NFTs.
Foundation: Foundation is a selective NFT marketplace that focuses on collectible artworks and exclusive releases.
SuperRare: SuperRare is a high-end marketplace focusing on unique, single-edition pieces of digital art.
3. Creation Tools:
Source: startupstash.com
This phase will involve creating the actual Non-Fungible Token (NFT). It can take several forms depending on the creative aspects, as it can be an image, video, or sound. If the user happens to be an artist or some form of a creative person, most probably the user will use:
Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator: Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator is something for creating digital graphic content.
Procreate: Procreate is a tool mostly utilized by digital illustrators.
Garage Band or Audacity: Garage Band and Audacity These help to create audio NFTs.
Blender or Maya: Blender and Maya are used for creating 3D models or animated characters.
You don’t need to be a professional artist to create NFTs. Simple doodles, memes, and generative art have also been successful. Your creativity is what counts.
The NFT Creation Process:
Source: techmoduler.com
Alright, you’ve got your wallet, you’re set on a marketplace, and you’ve got your creative juices flowing. Now let’s get into the step-by-step process of creating your NFT.
Step 1: Configuring Your Wallet
Install a digital wallet such as MetaMask first. Here’s how to go about it:
1. Download the app or extension.
2. To create an account, simply follow the instructions (it’s not that complicated).
3. Make sure you record your seed phrase in a secure location. If you misplace your wallet, you will be able to get it back thanks to this.
Step 2: Filling Your Wallet with Money
The next thing you’ll need is a cryptocurrency, most notably Ethereum, to pay for transaction costs, also referred to as “gas fees”. Depending on the platform, you can purchase Ethereum directly from your wallet or through services like Binance and Coinbase.
The common doubt can arise why would you need to pay for gas fees?
Gas fees are the price of interacting with the Ethereum blockchain and vary according to network demand. Some marketplaces, like OpenSea with “lazy minting,” allow you to mint NFTs for free and charge fees only when they are sold. We’ll talk about it next.
Step 3: Selecting an NFT Marketplace
Navigate to the marketplace of your choice (we’ll use OpenSea as an example). Click the wallet icon in the upper-right corner and choose MetaMask or your favorite wallet to connect your wallet.
Step 4: Minting Your NFT (Creating It)
Not, it’s time to create! How to mint your NFT is as follows:
1. Select the “Create” option.
2. Upload your file, which might be an audio, video, or picture.
3. If you want to add information like qualities or rarity (which is especially helpful if you’re making a collection), give your NFT a name, a description, and some properties.
4. Decide whether you want it to be a one-off (1/1) or part of a larger collection.
5. Simply select “Create” or “Mint” to get started. Your NFT is now on the blockchain.
Bonus: Lazy minting. Some platforms allow you to mint without upfront fees, where the buyer pays the gas fees when they purchase your NFT.
Step 5: Listing Your NFT for Sale:
Once your NFT has been created, you can put it up for sale:
1. Decide on an auction mode (where purchasers can submit bids) or set a price (in Ethereum).
2. Use your wallet to confirm the transaction (here is when the gas fees come in).
3. Your NFT is now available for purchase on the marketplace!
Tips for NFT Success:
Now that you know how to create an NFT, let’s talk about some strategies to help you stand out in the ever-growing NFT space.
1. Create Something Unique:
The core idea of NFTs is individuality. Yes, there is a market for anything from intricate 3D models to pixel art, but what makes your work unique? Find a way to differentiate your NFT, whether it’s through the experience it provides, the style, or the message.
2. Build a community:
Community is one of the main factors contributing to NFT’s success. NFT artists and collectors congregate on platforms such as Twitter and Discord. Participate in discussions, interact with people in the room, share your work, and add value. You’ll discover that investors are frequently more eager to purchase NFTs from known and trustworthy providers.
3. Collaborate with Other Creators:
Collaborating with other people is a great method to reach a wider audience. You might collaborate on original NFT productions with other musicians, artists, or even brands. Collaborations also frequently inject fresh creativity into your work.
4. Stay Active and Consistent:
In NFT, consistency is paramount. Continue to produce new pieces, be active on social media, and interact with your audience. You’ll have more opportunities to sell your NFTs the more you market yourself.
5. Experiment with Formats:
Don’t feel limited to just creating static images. Try out interactive NFTs, music, video, or 3D models. The more you expand the possibilities for an NFT, the more interested parties you’ll draw in.
So, there you have it, a full breakdown of how to create an NFT, from setting up your wallet to minting and selling your masterpiece. Hopefully, this guide has cleared up any questions or concerns you had about getting started. But now I want to hear from you:
What do you think about NFTs? Do you feel ready to jump into the world of digital ownership, or do you still have some hesitations? Let me know your thoughts!
Feel free to drop a comment or reach out with any questions. I’d love to continue the conversation and help you along your NFT journey! For more updates related to the world of Web3, subscribe to our newsletter!
In today’s digital world, where automation and scripting are essential for developers, security remains a paramount concern. One of the simplest ways to install developer tools is through scripts downloaded directly from the internet. However, this convenience also comes with inherent risks, especially when dealing with external sources.
Web3j is a security-focused project. It has taken steps to reduce risks from running installer scripts. This includes protecting against remote code execution (RCE) threats.
The Problem: A Risk in Convenience
Web3j provides installation scripts to make setup easier for developers. Typically, users can run the following commands to install Web3j:
On macOS/Linux:
curl -L get.web3j.io | sh
On Windows:
Set-ExecutionPolicy Bypass -Scope Process -Force; iex ((New-Object System.Net.WebClient).DownloadString(‘https://raw.githubusercontent.com/hyperledger/web3j-installer/main/installer.ps1’))
While these commands make installation quick and effortless, they introduce a serious security vulnerability: if a malicious actor gains access to modify the script at the source, they can inject malicious code. Users who unknowingly run these compromised scripts may expose their machines to Remote Code Execution (RCE). This could allow attackers to take control.
The Solution: Built-in Checksum Verification
To address this vulnerability, we have introduced SHA256 checksum verification into the Web3j installation script itself. This means that users no longer need to manually verify the checksum—the script now checks its own integrity before executing. This built-in verification ensures that the script automatically checks whether it has been modified. This prevents the execution of any potentially malicious code.
While the script performs its own verification, we also provide checksum values publicly so that users can independently verify them if they prefer to do so. This double layer of security is crucial for environments where strict verification processes are required.
The checksum values for the installation scripts are stored in the following files:
To verify the checksum manually, you can run the following commands for your respective operating system:
For macOS:
sed ‘/^CHECKSUM_URL=/d’ installer.sh | shasum -a 256 | awk ‘{print $1}’
For Linux:
sed ‘/^CHECKSUM_URL=/d’ installer.sh | sha256sum | awk ‘{print $1}’
After running the command, compare the output hash with the respective checksum file from the Web3j GitHub repository. If they match, the script is safe to run. If not, avoid running the script and report the issue immediately.
Why Fixing This Issue is Important
Addressing the risk of RCE is critical because it directly impacts the security of the machines that run Web3j scripts. In a compromised scenario, an attacker can execute arbitrary commands on a victim’s machine. This could lead to data breaches, malware installation, or total system compromise.
By implementing checksum verification inside the script and offering a manual verification option, we greatly reduce the risk of executing malicious scripts. This ensures the Web3j community remains safe and secure.
Continuous Updates to Ensure Safety
Web3j remains committed to the security of its users. The checksum values for the installer scripts will be updated if there are any changes to the script in the future. Users are encouraged to always verify the checksum before running the script, especially after downloading a fresh copy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while installer scripts provide a convenient way to get started with Web3j, they also come with potential risks. With the introduction of checksum verification inside the script and the ability for users to manually verify checksums, we have strengthened the security of the entire Web3j ecosystem. Users can now confidently execute the installation script knowing that it is authentic and free from tampering, protecting their systems from potential attacks.
The legal battle between Hermès and Mason Rothschild over the “MetaBirkins” NFT project continues, with the case now being heard by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit.
This follows last year’s jury decision, which ruled in favor of Hermès, ordering Rothschild to pay $133,000 in damages. Rothschild is now appealing that decision.
At the heart of the appeal is Rothschild’s argument that the jury wrongly concluded his use of the Birkin name was misleading. He claims that his use was artistically relevant and did not confuse consumers into thinking Hermès was involved in the project.
Rothschild launched his “MetaBirkins” NFT collection in 2021, featuring 100 unique digital images of Birkin-shaped bags. The collection drew significant attention, generating over 250 ETH in trading volume, equivalent to more than $420,000 at the time. Each NFT had a starting price of around 3.8 ETH, or roughly $6,200.
The jury, however, found that these NFTs were likely to confuse consumers, believing they were affiliated with Hermès when no such relationship existed. Rothschild contends that the court misinterpreted his intentions, focusing too much on the idea that he aimed to profit from Hermès’ reputation rather than recognizing his project as a form of artistic expression.
In his appeal, Rothschild also raises a broader issue, arguing that trademark law should not apply to NFTs, which are digital assets. He claims that since NFTs exist in the digital realm, Hermès’ trademark infringement claims do not hold up legally.
Despite the 2023 verdict, a U.S. district judge in New York allowed the “MetaBirkin” NFTs to be exhibited at the Spritmuseum in Stockholm earlier this year, with the condition that the museum must inform visitors that a jury had determined Rothschild intended to mislead the public about Hermès’ involvement.
This case is not an isolated one in the NFT space. Other legal disputes involving digital assets and trademark violations have emerged. For example, Yuga Labs, the creator of the Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) collection, faced a similar legal challenge when Ryder Ripps was accused of copying BAYC artworks. In October 2023, Yuga Labs won a copyright lawsuit against Ripps, with a federal judge in California awarding $1.6 million in damages and legal fees.
The concept of a Metaverse has captured the imagination of tech founders and investors alike. Several startups are leveraging blockchain technology to build decentralized virtual worlds and economies that are open, inclusive, and interoperable. Their vision is a Metaverse where users truly own their digital assets and data, without centralized control. Blockchain enables this through decentralized identifiers, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and smart contracts that govern interactions. This promises to empower users, creators, and businesses in the Metaverse.
While still in their early stages, new projects demonstrate the potential of integrating blockchain into virtual realities to create more trustless, transparent, and equitable digital worlds. As Metaverse technologies advance rapidly, nimble startups are poised to shape the future of this emerging space through decentralized, community-owned designs built on the foundations of blockchain.
1. Vegavid
Vegavid Technology is a leading metaverse startup. The company focuses on creating innovative virtual reality and augmented reality solutions. Vegavid aims to bring online and virtual experiences closer to real-world sensations. Vegavid’sproducts and services allow users to enjoy extraordinary experiences across virtual worlds. They develop applications for gaming, medicine, education, and business collaboration in the metaverse.
Vegavid utilizes blockchain, augmented reality, and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) to realize this vision. They are creating 3D virtual environments and assets represented by NFTs that users can own, collect, and trade. Using NFTs gives users true ownership over their virtual possessions and identity within the metaverse. The metaverse developed by Vegaviditself will be community-owned and decentralized, built on blockchain technology for transparency and trust.
Join us in shaping the future of digital experiences. Together, we can unlock the full potential of the metaverse and create innovative solutions that revolutionize industries and enhance human interaction.
Vegavid Metaverse development company services
2. PlayersOnly
PlayersOnly is a blockchain-based media and entertainment company building a virtual world for athletes. Athletes can leverage PlayersOnly to engage with fans through unique virtual experiences. Player’s build “player versus” – personalized virtual spaces featuring non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and other exclusive digital content. Fans enter these player verses to interact directly through avatars, play mini-games, and buy authenticated digital goods.
PlayersOnly mints and manages NFT collections for athletes that fans can purchase using $PO tokens – the company’s cryptocurrency. PlayersOnly aims to reshape how fans consume information and digital goods from their favorite athletes through immersive experiences and tokenized commerce in a metaverse environment. The startup employs blockchain technology to authenticate and transfer tokenized assets as well as enable self-sovereign identity for their decentralized metaverse.
3. Enjin
Enjin is a blockchain gaming company that aims to bring easy tokenization and monetary systems to virtual worlds. Enjin created its own ERC-20 cryptocurrency called Enjin Coin which is used as in-game currency. Game developers integrate Enjin’s software development kit (SDK) to enable features like stored value tokens, item rarity, tradable digital assets, and crypto payments in their games. Players can convert Enjin Coin to branded tokens inside compatible games which can represent virtual game items.
The tokens can be traded, sold, or taken back to Enjin Coin. Enjin’s goal is to make blockchain game economies as easy to implement, use and regulate as traditional ones. By deploying these economies of tradable digital assets, game developers hope to increase player engagement and monetization. The company promotes tools like its non-fungible token (NFT) SDK and blockchain multicurrency wallet to power the economies of metaverses and virtual worlds.
4.Axie Infinity
Axie Infinity is a Pokémon-inspired universe where players raise, breed, battle, and collect story-driven NFT creatures called Axies. Axies are ERC-721 tokens minted on the Ethereum blockchain, giving each one a unique identity and ensuring ownership. Players use an in-game currency called Smooth Love Potion (SLP) to breed new Axies. SLP can be earned through playing the game, completing quests, or trading and is a fungible token on the Ronin blockchain specialized for Axie Infinity.
The game combines fun turn-based battles with cryptocurrency rewards to create a profitable, gamified economy. Axie Infinity aims to offer more revenue-generating opportunities for players than traditional gaming by employing NFTs and tokens on a purpose-built blockchain. The game’s economy is owned by its community and not a single company, thanks to the decentralized nature of blockchain technology.
5. GuildFi
GuildFi aims to help virtual guilds flourish within metaverses by bringing decentralized finance to guild management. Guilds are groups of players that form communities within virtual worlds. GuildFi wants to provide guild leaders with intuitive DeFi tools to manage treasuries and reward systems, motivate and compensate members, and fund operations. The platform allows guild leaders to issue cryptographic tokens that represent membership and governance within the guild.
Members can contribute to the guild treasury in exchange for these tokens, which entitle them to a portion of proceeds from guild activities. Using smart contracts, guild leaders can set up rewards programs, fund raids, and competitions, and distribute profits automatically based on tokens held. Guilds using GuildFi have access to DeFi services like lending, borrowing, staking, and yield farming all within the platform. The startup believes blockchain-based tokenized economies will empower virtual guilds to grow, motivate members, and align incentives within metaverse games.
6. Supersocial Inc.
Supersocial aims to build the foundation for an open and creator-first metaverse economy. They are developing a decentralized social networking protocol where users control their data and digital identity. Their technology allows for the seamless integration of NFTs and token-gated content across decentralized applications. Their vision is for an open metaverse where creators can monetize their content directly without centralized intermediaries, using tools like NFT drops, tradable digital items, cryptocurrencies, and DAOs (Decentralized Autonomous Organizations).
Creators can launch their own virtual spaces within Supersocial, offering branded tokens and NFT collections to reward fans and fund their visions. Supersocial wants to move past today’s “walled garden” social platforms by leveraging blockchain technology to enable peer-to-peer transactions, self-sovereign identity, token-gated communities, and interoperability between metaverse virtual spaces. The startup ultimately aims to empower creators and users to own their data, digital items, and identities within a fairer metaverse economy.
Supersocial is building a decentralized social networking protocol and foundation for an open metaverse. Using blockchain and cryptocurrency, the startup aims to enable creators to directly monetize their content and audiences within the metaverse through tools like NFTs, tokens, DAOs, and tradable digital items.
7. Ikonz
Ikonz aims to build the world’s first hyper-realistic 3D metaverse. Their focus is on creating highly lifelike avatars, graphics, and virtual spaces. They see the metaverse as the next evolution of the internet – a 3D virtual world where people can engage in a variety of activities through their virtual selves. Ikonz’s metaverse leverages blockchain technology to enable token-gated content and communities as well as create unique tradable digital assets for users like avatar skins and virtual accessories.
Users can purchase land parcels – represented as NFTs – to build their own virtual spaces within the metaverse. Ikonian Credits, the platform’s native cryptocurrency, is used to reward creators, facilitate transactions and provide interoperability. Ikonz aims to differentiate their metaverse by focusing on photorealism, interpersonal connections, and creating a virtual world that behaves and feels like our physical world. The startup believes blockchain coupled with its advanced graphics technology will empower users to truly own their digital identities and items within their hyper-realistic metaverse.
8. Next Earth
Next Earth is building an exact digital replica of Earth on the blockchain. Their vision is a fully decentralized metaverse where users own their virtual land and assets. Next Earth’s Earth NXTToken powers transactions within the metaverse, while NXTToken holders govern the platform through a DAO. In Next Earth, users can purchase land parcels represented as NFTs. They can develop their plots by building structures, planting trees, or adding other virtual elements. Users can also create avatars to explore the metaverse, interact with others and generate value from their virtual land holdings.
Next Earth aims to replicate important aspects of reality like day/night cycles, seasons, and weather to create an immersive virtual world experience. The startup believes its decentralized approach and reliance on NFTs and DAOs can empower participants to truly own and govern a recreation of Earth within the metaverse. By leveraging blockchain technology, Next Earth hopes to offer greater utility and value to metaverse real estate compared to today’s centralized virtual worlds.
9. MixMob
MixMob is a Metaverse and AR startup focused on tokenizing offline activities and turning real-world experiences into tradable non-fungible tokens (NFTs). The company helps businesses like event organizers, attraction parks, gyms and studios mint NFT tickets and membership passes that can be resold, traded, or used as loyalty points. For example, a concert NFT could grant access to a show while also giving the holder a share of the revenue from future ticket sales on the secondary market.
MixMob’s platform issues the initial NFTs and then manages the entire lifecycle using blockchain – from validation and use to resale and revenue distribution. The startup sees this as a way to build more engaged, loyal customer bases for businesses while giving consumers ownership over their experiences. By connecting the physical world with blockchain technologies, MixMob believes it can transform how customers interact with the establishments they frequent. The company’s vision is a user-owned Metaverse where real-world activities and memories are tokenized as digital assets that people truly own.
10. Landindex
Landindex is a database and discovery platform for virtual worlds that leverage blockchain technology. Landindex aims to create an open Metaverse by connecting different decentralized virtual environments. It helps users discover, evaluate and invest in virtual land and other digital assets across multiple Metaverses. Landindex currently tracks over 30 virtual worlds with blockchain-backed lands like Decentraland, Somnium Space, Cryptovoxels, The Sandbox, Axie Infinity, and Upland. For each world, Landindex provides information on land and asset stats, recent transactions, sales volumes, and price indexes.
Using Landindex, investors can research different virtual property markets, compare valuations and opportunities, and stay up to date on the latest news. Landindex also seeks to foster interoperability across Metaverses by creating universal identifiers for virtual land that can be recognized across platforms. Ultimately, Landindex aims to build an open, interconnected Metaverse economy where users can easily move assets between different virtual environments. By mapping the blockchain metaverse, Landindex hopes to accelerate innovation, liquidity, and the adoption of decentralized virtual worlds.
11. Upland
Upland is a blockchain-based Metaverse where users can buy, sell and develop virtual properties. It combines aspects of gaming with real estate investing and transacting. Players create avatars that can acquire properties like land parcels, cars, and billboards throughout 10 different cities in Upland. All property deeds are minted as non-fungible tokens (NFTs) on the EOS blockchain, giving players true ownership. They can develop their properties to increase their value, and then trade them with other players using UPX – the Upland currency. Property data like location, size, and rent prices determine value.
The game aims to simulate the real world, offering both risks and rewards to players. The economy and all transactions are decentralized and managed by the blockchain. Upland sees itself as a “decentralized Metaverse” that empowers players through property ownership secured by NFT technology. The project demonstrates how blockchain principles of decentralization, transparency, and trust can be applied to virtual economies within the Metaverse.
Conclusion
The startups discussed to show how blockchain technology can help build more equitable, open, and liquid Metaverses. While significant challenges around scalability, interoperability, and regulation remain, the principles of decentralization, transparency, and digital ownership enabled by blockchain align well with the vision of a fair and inclusive Metaverse that empowers users.
With continued innovation by these startups and wider adoption of their platforms, we may start to see the Metaverse become a reality that enables users to truly own their digital assets, identities, and data within thriving tokenized economies. Improved considerably from today’s predominantly centralized virtual worlds. As blockchain technology advances further, it has strong potential to reshape how we experience the Metaverse of the future.
Tomarket is getting ready for the big TOMA token drop on The Open Network (TON). On October 31, 2024, Tomarket will be joining the likes of Hamster Kombat, Catizen and Notcoin as another major milestone for the Telegram platform.
The TOMA token is expected to generate a lot of attention as Tomarket has over 40 million active players on the platform and growing.
As Tomarket prepares for this big event, they also announced the airdrop criteria for eligible players. This is to reward active players and get early engagement in the game, a smart move to get users involved before the TOMA token drops.
Tomarket Airdrop Criteria
To get the Tomarket airdrop you must meet a few conditions. First you must be at least Bronze level in Tomarket’s leveling system. This ensures only active and dedicated players get the rewards. This requirement gets players to play and progress in the game, feel a sense of achievement and get more involved in the platform.
Additionally, players must add a tomato emoji to their Telegram username. This might seem small but it’s a smart move by Tomarket to get more community visibility and unity. Players with the tomato emoji in their username show they are part of the game, making it easier for other users to find and engage with them and get a stronger and more connected community.
By setting these conditions Tomarket is rewarding their most loyal players and also giving new users an incentive to get in early and play consistently to get the benefits.
Game Mechanics and Rewards
Tomarket’s in-game rewards system keeps players engaged. Users can earn rewards in the form of tomatoes (points) and gold coins, which are used to level up and boost their overall standing in the game. As players level up they unlock new opportunities and bonuses and get closer to the airdrop.
One of the best features of Tomarket’s game mechanics is the daily combo bonuses and hidden tomato stashes. This adds an extra layer of surprise and reward to the game and gets players to play daily and hunt for hidden rewards. This will increase their airdrop allocations even more making the game more rewarding.
By combining fun gameplay with tangible rewards like the TOMA token, Tomarket has created a system that not only entertains but also engages players.
Tomarket’s Growth and Popularity
The growth is impressive. In the last month alone Tomarket added 11 million players and now has over 40 million users. This is mainly due to Tomarket’s focus on community engagement and unique reward mechanics.
By getting players to do small but meaningful actions like adding a tomato emoji to their username and reaching higher levels, Tomarket has created loyalty and word-of-mouth marketing within the Telegram community. And it has paid off, Tomarket is now a major player in the crypto gaming space.
Tomarket has also got strong backing from major blockchain exchanges like Gate.io, Bitget, ByBit and BitTime. These partnerships gives users more confidence and expands Tomarket’s reach.
Conclusion
The TOMA token launch and airdrop is a big deal for Tomarket and its community. By getting players to play actively and reward early engagement the platform makes sure their most loyal players get the benefits. With over 40 million users and strong backing from major blockchain exchanges Tomarket is on its way to become a top player in the Telegram gaming space.
If you want to get the most rewards, get playing now. Level up, add the tomato emoji to your username and play daily to be ready for the TOMA token airdrop on October 31.
Editor’s note: This article was written with the assistance of AI. Edited and fact-checked by Owen Skelton.
Owen Skelton is an experienced journalist and editor with a passion for delivering insightful and engaging content. As Editor-in-Chief, he leads a talented team of writers and editors to create compelling stories that inform and inspire.
Axed SAS Who Dares Wins star Ant Middleton blasted over comments about friend Liam Payne’s death
Ant Middleton has come under fire for his comments about the death of his friend Liam Payne.
One Direction singer Liam died on October 16 aged 31 after he fell from his third-floor balcony in Argentina.
Former SAS: Who Dares Wins star Ant was asked about the loss of Liam as he appeared on This Morning today (October 24).
Ant Middleton on Liam Payne death
The TV star, who was axed from SAS: Who Dares Wins in 2021 over his ‘personal conduct’, had filmed a TV documentary with Liam in 2019.
The pair joined forces for Ant Middleton and Liam Payne: Straight Talking. During the show, they discussed their mental health struggles.
Talking on This Morning, Ant, 44, said of Liam’s death: “I was on a PR tour for my K2 documentary that airs in Australia today, and my book Military Mindset, that launches today as well.
“Whilst I was on that PR tour in Australia and in the UK, everything sort of segued onto Liam which I don’t mind talking about Liam.
“He was a great friend of mine, a super positive guy. Like Liam said, it’s about the people around you. We can only do so much by ourselves.
“It’s very important, even if it’s just a phone call, just a text… that’s what me and Liam used to do all the time. I used to go and see him at the drop of a hat because I knew he just needed someone by his side.”
This Morning today
Ant also discussed the last time he spoke to Liam. He explained: “I’ve been really busy, and Liam being the megastar that he was, you can imagine how busy he was. So I spoke to him on the phone probably about eight months ago and in texts since.
“At the beginning of the year I was away in Australia doing Dancing with the Stars and now I think, we’re at the end of October already, where did the time go? It only feels like I was at Liam’s yesterday. Of course it does because we’re all so busy.”
He added: “Of course we can do more. Of course lessons like this in such a negative situation we must draw from, must look at the positive and go right, let’s reach out to people. Think, how long ago did I speak to someone? How long ago did I send a text?
“It’s made me think, even if we’re so, so busy with our lives, just if you’ve got five minutes, two minutes, if you’re thinking about someone, don’t just think about them. Let them know that you’re thinking about them.”
Some viewers watching took issue with Ant at the start of the interview, however. One person said on X: “Good to know I wasn’t the only one that thought Ant Middleton mentioning his book and show or whatever when answering how he felt about Liam’s passing.”
Read more: Liam Payne’s girlfriend shares heartbreaking note he ‘told her not to look at’ before his death
Another wrote: “Ben Shephard asked Ant Middleton about Liam Payne. Ant uses the first few seconds to plug his book and tour. Then goes on to talk about him… Nice.”
Someone else added: “Ant using the question about Liam Payne to sell his new book and TV show in Australia is slightly weird.”
This Morning airs weekdays from 10am on ITV1 and ITVX.
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