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Pope Francis Dead at 88

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    Pope Francis Dead at 88


    Pope Francis
    Dead at 88

    Published April 21, 2025 1:52 AM PDT

    Pope Francis — the 266th pope in the Catholic Church’s history — has died … the Vatican confirms.

    “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church,” Cardinal Kevin Ferrell said in a statement on Monday.

    Reports began to surface at the end of February that the pontiff was preparing for death after he was hospitalized with double pneumonia earlier in the month. He was also being treated for bronchitis at the time.

    Numerous dignitaries visited him in the hospital while he was recovering … including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who said the pope was as “alert and reactive” as always

    Francis had struggled with his health in recent years. Remember … in March 2023, the pontiff was admitted to the Gemelli Hospital for a respiratory infection, and he wound up staying for several days to receive treatment. As a younger man, Francis had part of one lung removed after he came down with pleurisy, an inflammation of chest membranes usually caused by an infection.

    At the time, the Vatican said Pope Francis had been complaining about breathing difficulties in the days leading up to his hospitalization, but he did not have COVID. Heart problems and pneumonia were reportedly ruled out from testing, once at the hospital.

    Pope Francis during the General Audience

    In June of that year, Pope Francis was laid up in a hospital bed for nine days after having stomach surgery.

    Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936 in Buenos Aires, Argentina … Pope Francis assumed the role in 2013 and instituted a series of reforms, which include a new constitution.

    Pope Emeritus Benedict getty 2

    During his tenure, he was known as a top theologian in the Catholic church … distinguishing himself with more liberal views than his predecessor Pope Benedict. He made headlines for his support of gay rights and even legal protections for same-sex couples, despite there being some discrepancies when it came to marriage.

    PF became the first pope to be a member of the Jesuits, the first from the Americas and the Southern Hemisphere. He was also the first pope from outside Europe since the 8th century.

    He was 88.

    RIP



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    Web3 Gaming Breakthrough: 2025 to Deliver Unstoppable Growth Backed by AI and $12B Powerhouse Funding – Web3oclock

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    Web3 Gaming Breakthrough: 2025 to Deliver Unstoppable Growth Backed by AI and B Powerhouse Funding – Web3oclock


    AI Slashes Web3 Game Development Timelines:

    Billions Already Deployed—and It’s Finally Paying Off:

    AAA Games and the AI Factor:

    Web3 in Action: Gunzilla’s “Off the Grid”

    Mobile Web3 Games Level Up:

    The Road Ahead:



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    Unstoppable AI Momentum: OpenAI, NVIDIA, and Amazon Push the Limits of Innovation – Web3oclock

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    Unstoppable AI Momentum: OpenAI, NVIDIA, and Amazon Push the Limits of Innovation – Web3oclock


    OpenAI Launches Groundbreaking o3 and o4-mini-Models:

    NVIDIA to Build U.S.-Based AI Supercomputers:

    Safe Superintelligence Raises Funds at $32B Valuation:

    Experts Warn of an Inflated AI Investment Bubble:

    AI May Be Undermining Human Intelligence, Report Suggests:

    AI and Elon Musk Now Seen as Brand Risks, Survey Finds:

    Amazon Launches Nova Sonic: A Next-Gen Speech AI

    OpenAI Debuts Codex CLI and Grok Studio for Developers:



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    Vitalik Buterin explores sunsetting the EVM in favor of a simpler Ethereum execution model

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    Vitalik Buterin explores sunsetting the EVM in favor of a simpler Ethereum execution model



    Vitalik Buterin has proposed a long-term overhaul to Ethereum’s execution environment to replace the Ethereum Virtual Machine with RISC-V, a standardized and extensible instruction set architecture.

    The proposal, shared in the Ethereum Magicians forum on April 20, outlines a multi-phase shift to improve proving efficiency and simplify the execution layer, without changing core abstractions like accounts, storage, or cross-contract calls.

    The change would retain Solidity and Vyper as primary development languages, which would be adapted to compile to RISC-V.

    Per Buterin, while writing contracts directly in Rust would be technically possible, readability concerns and developer familiarity with existing languages suggest that Rust will not replace Solidity at the application layer. Existing EVM contracts would continue to operate and interact fully with new RISC-V-based contracts, preserving backward compatibility.

    Execution bottlenecks and long-term scaling

    Buterin identified execution as one of Ethereum’s final long-term bottlenecks, after near-term issues are mitigated by EIPs such as delayed execution, block-level access lists, and distributed historical storage.

    In particular, he pointed to proving costs in ZK-EVMs as the key constraint for future scalability. Analysis from Succinct’s ZK-EVM indicates that block execution alone accounts for nearly half of all prover cycles, while the remainder is consumed by witness data handling and state tree operations.

    While state-related overhead can be reduced by shifting from Keccak-based Patricia trees to binary trees with prover-optimized hash functions such as Poseidon, block execution efficiency will remain limiting unless the EVM is addressed directly.

    Buterin noted that ZK-EVMs already compile to RISC-V under the hood, suggesting that exposing RISC-V as the primary VM could eliminate a layer of abstraction and yield efficiency gains. Some test scenarios reportedly show 100x improvements in prover performance by bypassing EVM translation altogether.

    Coexistence, migration, and simplification paths

    Multiple implementation pathways are under consideration. The most conservative would allow dual support for both EVM and RISC-V contracts, maintaining interoperable calls and shared access to persistent state. EVM contracts would continue to function and could call into or be called by RISC-V contracts via system calls mapped to traditional opcodes such as CALL, SLOAD, and SSTORE.

    A more aggressive approach involves transforming existing EVM contracts into wrappers that delegate execution to an EVM interpreter written in RISC-V. Under this model, a contract’s bytecode would be replaced with logic that routes calls and execution parameters to a designated RISC-V interpreter contract, receives the return value, and forwards it to the caller.

    An intermediate strategy proposes protocol-level support for virtual machine interpreters, enshrining this delegation process and enabling multiple execution formats to coexist. While EVM would be the first VM supported under this model, others, including Move, could be added in the future.

    Each approach seeks to balance compatibility with long-term simplification. According to Buterin, incremental simplifications to the EVM, such as removing SELFDESTRUCT, have proven difficult due to complex edge cases and legacy behaviors.

    A complete transition to RISC-V could enable a more maintainable base layer with minimal execution logic, comparable in compactness to projects like Tinygrad that enforce strict codebase limits.

    Broader design philosophy and alignment with Beam Chain

    The proposal aligns with ongoing efforts like the beam chain initiative, which aims to simplify Ethereum’s consensus mechanism. The RISC-V plan would bring parallel improvements to the execution layer, enabling the network to pursue modularity and reduced complexity across both domains.

    As posted on Ethereum Magicians, Buterin characterized the proposal as a radical but possibly necessary step toward realizing long-term L1 efficiency and simplicity. While active EIPs and statelessness frameworks address short- and medium-term scalability improvements, Ethereum’s future as a performant and sustainable protocol may hinge on architectural changes of this magnitude.

    No timeline has been announced for any implementation phase. The Ethereum community is expected to engage in further discussion to evaluate trade-offs, tooling impact, and developer migration paths as part of a longer deliberation cycle.

    The proposal remains exploratory and is intended to open a broader conversation about the direction of Ethereum’s execution environment over the coming years.

    Community response

    Some community members raised strategic and technical reservations in response to Buterin’s proposal. Adam Cochran questioned the prioritization of L1 efficiency at the potential expense of L2 enablement, suggesting that enshrining RISC-V could narrow Ethereum’s modular roadmap.

    He highlighted alternative proposals such as recursive proof aggregation, stateless commitment roots, and BLS signature unification, which could potentially offer broader systemic gains with fewer implementation costs.

    Others, including Ben A Adams, Co-founder and CTO of Illyriad Games, and levs57, a web3 developer, pointed to performance trade-offs, particularly around hardware compatibility and the persistent role of precompiles.

    Concerns included the difficulty of optimizing low-level RISC-V instructions back into efficient 256-bit operations and doubts about whether current zk-RISC-V systems are sufficiently mature or auditable to justify a foundational shift.

    Buterin responded by downplaying the extent to which the EVM’s 256-bit word size constrains execution, stating that most values in practice are smaller, typically u32, u64, or u128, which compilers can efficiently map to RISC-V instructions.

    He reiterated that today’s ZK-EVMs already operate as RISC-V environments embedding an EVM interpreter, framing direct exposure of RISC-V as a way to remove redundant layers. While acknowledging stack management and jumps as potential friction points, he maintained that eliminating interpretive overhead remains a net gain.

    Mentioned in this article



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    Sydney Sweeney’s Early Career: Exploring Her Journey through Films | MarkMeets Media

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      Sydney Sweeney’s Early Career: Exploring Her Journey through Films | MarkMeets Media


      Sydney Sweeney, the rising star known for her captivating performances, has garnered widespread acclaim in recent years. While she’s now a prominent figure in both television and film, her journey to stardom began with a series of roles in various movies. Before she became a household name, Sweeney graced the silver screen in a diverse range of films, showcasing her talent and versatility as an actress.

      Sydney Sweeney’s Early Filmography: A Closer Look

      “ZMD: Zombies of Mass Destruction” (2010)

      In her screen-acting debut, Sydney Sweeney ventured into the realm of horror with “ZMD: Zombies of Mass Destruction.” Directed by Kevin Hamedani, this satirical zombie apocalypse film provided Sweeney with her first IMDb-credited role, marking the beginning of her journey in the film industry. Despite its low-budget nature, “ZMD” offered Sweeney the opportunity to showcase her acting chops at a young age, portraying a kid zombie amidst the chaos of a zombie outbreak.

      “The Ward” (2011)

      Continuing her foray into the horror genre, Sweeney starred in “The Ward,” directed by legendary filmmaker John Carpenter. In this psychological thriller, she portrayed the younger version of a character named Alice, played by Mika Boorem. Set in a mental institution, the film follows a young woman named Kristen, played by Amber Heard, as she grapples with supernatural forces that haunt the facility. Sweeney’s involvement in “The Ward” underscored her growing presence in the world of horror cinema.

      “Spiders” (2013)

      Transitioning to the realm of sci-fi horror, Sweeney appeared in “Spiders,” directed by Tibor Takács. In this disaster film, she portrayed Emily, a character caught in the midst of a terrifying ordeal involving mutated spiders wreaking havoc on a city. Despite its B-movie premise, “Spiders” provided Sweeney with another opportunity to showcase her range as an actress, navigating the suspense and chaos of the narrative with aplomb.

      “Stolen from Suburbia” (2015)

      Stepping into more dramatic territory, Sweeney delivered a compelling performance in “Stolen from Suburbia,” directed by Alex Wright. In this thriller centered on the harrowing subject of human trafficking, Sweeney portrayed Emma Hudson, a young woman abducted by traffickers. As the film unfolds, Emma’s mother embarks on a desperate quest to rescue her daughter, leading to a gripping narrative that highlights Sweeney’s dramatic prowess.

      “The Martial Arts Kid” (2015)

      Venturing into the world of martial arts cinema, Sweeney appeared in “The Martial Arts Kid,” directed by Michael Baumgarten. Drawing inspiration from classic films like “The Karate Kid,” this coming-of-age tale follows a troubled teenager named Robbie as he learns the value of discipline and respect through martial arts training. Sweeney portrayed Julia, a fellow martial artist, in a role that showcased her athleticism and charisma on screen.

      “Vikes” (2017)

      In the satirical comedy “Vikes,” directed by Tenney Fairchild, Sweeney tackled themes of cultural identity and activism. Portraying the character Ida, a young activist advocating for the renaming of a school mascot, Sweeney brought humor and depth to her role. As the film explores the complexities of cultural representation in sports, Sweeney’s performance shines, demonstrating her ability to infuse comedic moments with genuine emotion.

      “Relentless” (2018)

      Delving into the realm of thriller cinema, Sweeney starred in “Relentless,” directed by Lance Tracy. In this tense narrative, she portrayed Ally, a young woman kidnapped in Central America, prompting her mother to embark on a perilous journey to rescue her. Sweeney’s portrayal of Ally captured the vulnerability and resilience of her character, drawing audiences into the gripping storyline.

      “Along Came the Devil” (2018)

      Embracing the horror genre once again, Sweeney took on the lead role in “Along Came the Devil,” directed by Jason DeVan. In this chilling tale of demonic possession, she portrayed Ashley, a troubled young woman tormented by sinister forces. As the narrative unfolds, Sweeney’s performance evokes a sense of dread and suspense, heightening the film’s eerie atmosphere.

      “The Wrong Daughter” (2018)

      In “The Wrong Daughter,” directed by Ben Meyerson, Sweeney delved into the realm of psychological thriller. Portraying a character named Danica, Sweeney’s performance captivated audiences as she navigated the complexities of identity and deception. As the film’s narrative twists and turns, Sweeney’s portrayal adds layers of intrigue to the story, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.

      “The Voyeurs” (2021)

      In the erotic thriller “The Voyeurs,” directed by Michael Mohan, Sweeney delivered a captivating performance that showcased her range as an actress. Portraying the character Pippa, Sweeney navigated the complexities of desire and obsession in a narrative that explores the darker aspects of human nature. As the film delves into themes of voyeurism and temptation, Sweeney’s performance captivated audiences, solidifying her status as a rising star in the industry.

      Sydney Sweeney Bio:

      Date of Birth: September 12, 1997 (age 26)
      Born: Spokane, Washington, United States
      Sydney Sweeney net worth: net worth of $10 million

      Career Highlights:

      Gained recognition for roles in “Everything Sucks!” (2018), “The Handmaid’s Tale” (2018), and “Sharp Objects” (2018).
      Breakout role as Cassie Howard in the HBO drama series “Euphoria” (2019-present).
      Earned critical acclaim and two Primetime Emmy nominations for her performance in the first season of the anthology series “The White Lotus” (2021).
      Also starred in films such as “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” (2019) and “The Voyeurs” (2021).

      Conclusion: Reflecting on Sydney Sweeney’s Journey

      Sydney Sweeney’s early filmography offers a glimpse into the evolution of her career, showcasing her versatility and talent as an actress. From horror flicks to dramatic thrillers, Sweeney has demonstrated her ability to inhabit a wide range of roles with depth and authenticity. As she continues to ascend in the world of entertainment, audiences can look forward to witnessing Sweeney’s continued growth and success on screen. With each new project, she reaffirms her status as one of the most promising talents in Hollywood, leaving an indelible mark on the film industry with her captivating performances.

      Author Profile

      Adam Regan
      Deputy Editor

      Features and account management. 3 years media experience. Previously covered features for online and print editions.

      Email Adam@MarkMeets.com



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      Is Binance Safe? Binance Exchange Security Measures Tested

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      Is Binance Safe? Binance Exchange Security Measures Tested


       

      Cryptocurrency trading is exciting and profitable, but safety is a big concern for everyone. People want to know if their money and personal details stay secure on platforms like Binance. With so many crypto exchanges out there, picking a trustworthy one feels tricky. Hackers, scams, and legal issues make users nervous about losing everything. 

      This guide will cover what Binance is and explain its various security measures, including past hacks and regulatory issues. We will also compare it with securities of other exchanges. Lastly, we will also cover whether Binance is a safe and legitimate crypto exchange for you.

      binance-logo-2

      What is Binance Exchange?

      Binance is a leading cryptocurrency exchange that started in 2017. Changpeng Zhao founded it in China, but the company later moved to Malta due to regulations. It serves over 250 million users worldwide and handles large trading volumes daily. Binance offers trading for over 350 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and its own coin, Binance Coin (BNB).

      The platform provides many services, such as spot trading, 125x leverage futures trading, and margin trading. Users can also trade digital currencies, earn interest through staking, and explore NFTs. Binance also runs Binance Smart Chain, a blockchain for decentralized apps. It charges low fees, starting at 0.10% for regular users, and offers discounts with BNB. Read our in-depth Binance review here.

      Is Binance Safe and Legit?

      Binance is a safe and legitimate crypto exchange due to advanced security measures such as RSA key for API trading, IP access restrictions, wallet address whitelisting, anti-phishing code, two-factor authentication (2FA), cold wallets storage, real-time monitoring with access control and data encryption, and the Secure Asset Fund for Users (SAFU). 

      However, it has faced significant legal issues, including a $4.3 billion settlement with the U.S. in 2023 for violating anti-money laundering laws and ongoing lawsuits from the SEC and CFTC for unregistered operations. Additionally, Binance experienced major hacks, like the $570 million BNB Chain exploit in 2022 and the $40 million Bitcoin theft in 2019, though it covered losses with its SAFU fund.

      Is Binance Safe and Legit?Is Binance Safe and Legit?

      Binance Security Measures: How Does Binance Secure Your Assets?

      1. RSA Key for API Trading

      API stands for Application Programming Interface, which lets users connect their Binance account to external trading software for faster or automated trades. RSA is a type of encryption that uses two keys: a public key and a private key. The public key locks the data, and only the private key, which is kept secret, can unlock it.

      On Binance, when you create an API key for trading, it’s protected with RSA encryption. This means that any commands, whether buying or selling crypto, will be sent through the API and scrambled into a code that only Binance can read with the matching private key. This stops hackers from intercepting or changing your instructions.

      2. IP Access Restrictions

      An IP address is like a unique online ID for your device, showing its location on the internet. With this feature, you can set a list of trusted IP addresses—say, your home or office Wi-Fi—that are allowed to log into your Binance account or use its API.

      This works by blocking any login or API request that comes from an unrecognized IP address. For example, if someone tries to access your account from a different country using a stolen password, Binance will stop them because their IP isn’t on your approved list. It’s a simple but strong shield against hackers, especially if they’re far away or using a strange network.

      3. Wallet Address Whitelisting

      When you turn on whitelisting, you create a list of trusted wallet addresses, like your personal hardware wallet or another exchange account, that are the only places you can withdraw funds to.

      Here’s how it helps: if a hacker gets into your account and tries to send your crypto to their own wallet, Binance will block the transaction unless that wallet is on your whitelist. Each time you add a new address to the list, Binance asks for confirmation, often through email or two-factor authentication, to make sure it’s really you. This stops thieves from draining your funds, even if they bypass other security.

      Binance Wallet Address WhitelistingBinance Wallet Address Whitelisting

      4. Anti-Phishing Code

      The anti-phishing code is a simple but clever tool Binance uses to protect you from fake emails pretending to be from them. With this feature, you set a unique code in your Binance account security settings. After that, every genuine email from Binance will include this code.

      5. Two-factor authentication (2FA)

      Normally, you just need a password to access an account, but with 2FA, you also need a second “factor”—something only you have. Binance offers options like Google Authenticator (an app that gives you a new code every 30 seconds) or SMS (a code sent to your phone). Binance requires 2FA for big actions like withdrawals or password resets, adding protection where it matters most.

      6. Cold Wallet Storage

      A cold wallet is a device that stores your crypto and isn’t connected to the internet. Binance keeps the vast majority of funds in these cold wallets, away from online hot wallets that handle daily trades.

      If Binance’s online systems get attacked, only a small amount of crypto in hot wallets is at risk, while the bulk stays untouchable in cold storage. Moving funds to cold wallets involves strict security steps, like multiple approvals, so it’s not easy for anyone to access them.

      7. Real-Time Monitoring, Access Control, and Data Encryption

      Binance uses real-time monitoring, access control, and data encryption together to keep its platform secure. Real-time monitoring means Binance’s systems watch every action, like logins, trades, or withdrawals, 24/7 using advanced tech like AI. If something looks odd, like a withdrawal from a new device, it can freeze the action and alert you, stopping hackers fast.

      Access control limits who can do what. For example, you can restrict your account to certain devices or IPs, and Binance uses multi-signature wallets for big moves like transferring funds. This makes it tough for outsiders to take over. Data encryption scrambles your personal info, like passwords or KYC details, into a code that only Binance can unscramble. Even if data is stolen, it’s useless without the key. 

      8. Secure Asset Fund for Users (SAFU)

      The Secure Asset Fund for Users, or SAFU, is an emergency fund Binance set up in 2018 to protect users if something goes wrong, like a hack. Binance puts 10% of all trading fees into this fund, which has grown to $1 billion. It’s kept separate and ready to cover losses if the exchange’s security is breached.

      binance-logo-2binance-logo-2

      Legal and Regulatory Issues of Binance  

      Binance has faced some legal and regulatory challenges across multiple countries due to its operations and compliance practices. In November 2023, Binance and its founder, Changpeng Zhao, pleaded guilty to violations of U.S. laws. This means they were accused of violating the Bank Secrecy Act for failing to maintain an effective anti-money laundering (AML) program. 

      The U.S. Department of Justice, along with the CFTC and the FinCEN, imposed a $4.3 billion settlement. Zhao stepped down as CEO and paid a $50 million personal fine as well

      The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) also filed a lawsuit in 2023. The SEC alleged that Binance misled investors about risk controls and engaged in manipulative trading practices. Similarly, the CFTC sued Binance in March 2023, accusing it of evading U.S. derivatives laws and serving American customers without proper registration. These actions forced Binance to exit the U.S. market entirely. Of course, Binance.US, a separate entity, continues to operate under stricter compliance.

      Outside the U.S., Binance has encountered scrutiny as well. The U.K.’s FCA and Japan’s Financial Services Agency warned Binance in 2018 and 2021 for operating without a license. China banned Binance in 2017 amid a broader crypto crackdown.

      Binance Hack

      Binance has experienced notable security breaches. An earlier breach took place on May 7, 2019, when hackers stole 7,000 Bitcoin, worth $40 million, from Binance’s hot wallet. The stolen funds represented a small fraction of Binance’s holdings, and the SAFU fund fully reimbursed affected users.

      In 2022, hackers also targeted the BNB smart chain. By forging transactions through a flaw in the bridge’s smart contract, the attackers minted and withdrew 2 million BNB tokens, valued at approximately $570 million at the time.

      What are the Risks of Using Binance?

      Regulatory Issues: Binance has encountered some legal problems in nations such as the USA, the UK, and Japan. Its international platform is also inaccessible in the U.S., and the Binance.US website only provides limited features.Hacking Threats: Binance has previously been hacked, for instance, in 2019 when hackers made away with $40 million worth of Bitcoin and in 2022 when $570 million was stolen from the BNB Chain.Centralized Control: Binance is a centralized exchange. They hold your cryptocurrency, so if they close up or go insolvent like FTX, you lose control of your funds.Slow Customer Support: Numerous users comment that Binance customer support is slow when issues arise, like when you can’t log in or have frozen funds. You could wait a very long time to get a response, and if the issue is an emergency, this can be a huge issue.Market Manipulation Risks: Many blame Binance for facilitating market manipulation, such as artificial trading volumes or insider trading. The SEC in the US has sued them, alleging they don’t treat users equally.

      Tips to Stay Safe on Binance

      Enable 2FA: Use Google Authenticator or SMS for an extra login and withdrawal security layer.  Use a Strong, Unique Password: Make a long password with letters, numbers, and symbols that are not used elsewhere.  Set Up Wallet Address Whitelisting: Allow withdrawals only to trusted addresses you approve.  Add an Anti-Phishing Code: Create a personal code to verify real Binance emails and avoid scams.  Limit IP Access: Restrict account access to specific, trusted IP addresses.  Store Funds in Cold Wallets: Move large amounts to offline wallets you control, not Binance’s hot wallet.  Check Emails Carefully: Only click links from official Binance emails with your anti-phishing code.  Update Software Regularly: Keep your devices and apps updated to avoid security flaws.  Monitor Account Activity: Check login and transaction history often for anything unusual.

      Binance vs Coinbase Security Measures

      Here is a quick comparison between Binance and Coinbase‘s security features:

      Security MeasureBinanceCoinbaseTwo-factor authentication (2FA)Yes (Google Authenticator, SMS)Yes (Google Authenticator, SMS)Cold Wallet StorageYes (majority offline)Yes (98% offline in secure sites)Data EncryptionYes (unspecified standard)Yes (AES-256 standard)Real-Time MonitoringYes (AI-driven)Yes (continuous detection)Wallet Address WhitelistingYesYesAnti-Phishing CodeYesNoRSA Key for API TradingYesNoIP Access RestrictionsYesNoSAFU FundYes ($1 billion emergency fund)NoBiometric Fingerprint LoginsYes (mobile app)Yes (mobile app)FDIC Insurance for USDNoYes (up to $250,000 for U.S. users)Coinbase VaultNoYes (time-delayed withdrawals)Spam Token Management/AlertsNoYes (in Coinbase Wallet)

      Binance vs. Binance US

      Binance.US mirrors the same security measures, including 2FA, cold storage, and data encryption, but lacks an explicitly stated SAFU equivalent, though it benefits from Binance’s security infrastructure. Binance has faced hacks (e.g., $570 million in 2022), recovering via SAFU, while Binance.US has no reported breaches, possibly due to its smaller scale.

      For more detailed comparison, check out our Binance vs Binance.US review.

      binance-logo-2binance-logo-2

      Conclusion

      In conclusion, Binance offers a robust safety net for its users through advanced security measures like 2FA, cold wallet storage, RSA encryption, and the $1 billion SAFU fund, making it a reliable choice for crypto trading. 

      However, its safety isn’t flawless; past hacks, such as the $570 million BNB Chain breach in 2022, and legal troubles, including a $4.3 billion US settlement in 2023, highlight risks. While Binance reimburses losses and continuously improves security, users must adopt personal safeguards like strong passwords and whitelisting to maximize protection.

      FAQs

      Can US citizens use Binance?

      US citizens cannot use the global Binance platform (Binance.com) due to strict regulatory restrictions imposed in 2019. Binance created Binance.US, a separate entity compliant with US laws, for American users. The global site blocks US IP addresses, and attempting to access it via VPN violates its terms of service, risking account suspension. 

      Binance.US offers fewer features and coins (about 150 vs. over 350 on Binance.com) but meets US regulations, making it the only legal option for US citizens.

      Is Binance safe to use in the USA?

      Binance.US uses strong security like 2FA, cold storage for most funds, and encryption, making it generally safe. However, it faced a $4.3 billion parent company settlement in 2023 for past compliance failures, raising trust issues. No major hacks have hit Binance.US so far.

      Does Binance.US have FDIC insurance?

      Binance.US does not offer FDIC insurance for cryptocurrency holdings, as FDIC only covers USD in bank accounts, not crypto. Crypto on Binance.US relies on platform security like cold storage, not federal insurance.

      Is Binance Wallet safe?

      Binance Wallet, part of the Binance ecosystem, uses encryption, 2FA, and private key control, making it reasonably safe for storing crypto. It’s a hot wallet, meaning it’s online and more vulnerable to hacks than cold wallets. No specific breaches have targeted it, but users must secure their keys and devices.

      Is the Binance App safe?

      The Binance App is safe if downloaded from official sources (Google Play, App Store) and paired with 2FA and strong passwords. It uses encryption and real-time monitoring to protect transactions. However, risks like phishing or device malware persist if users aren’t cautious. 

      Is Binance.US safer than Coinbase?

      Binance.US and Coinbase both use 2FA, cold storage, and encryption, but Coinbase has a slight edge with no hack history and additional insurance for hot wallet losses. Binance.US hasn’t been hacked but lacks a SAFU-like fund explicitly for US users and has faced regulatory scrutiny. Coinbase’s FDIC-insured USD and vault feature make it marginally safer for cautious US users.



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      Bruce Willis’ Wife Unveils Cover For Book Inspired By Her Caregiver Role

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        Bruce Willis’ Wife Unveils Cover For Book Inspired By Her Caregiver Role


        Emma Heming Willis has revealed the cover of her upcoming book, “The Unexpected Journey,” a heartfelt guide for caregivers inspired by her experience after husband Bruce Willis’ dementia diagnosis.

        Sharing personal reflections on Instagram, the actress emphasized the emotional toll dementia takes on families and the vital role of caregiver support.

        Bruce Willis’ Wife hopes her story offers hope, guidance, and strength to those facing similar challenges.

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        Emma Heming Willis Shares First Look At Heartfelt Book Chronicling Life After Bruce Willis’ Diagnosis

        In a deeply personal Instagram post, Emma opened up about the life-altering moment that redefined everything for her family.

        She also revealed the cover of her upcoming book alongside a touching black-and-white photo of herself with husband Bruce.

        The book, she explained, was born from the emotional whirlwind that followed Bruce’s diagnosis with aphasia, which was later diagnosed to be frontotemporal dementia.

        “Born from grief, shaped by love, and guided by purpose,” she wrote. “This is the book I needed back when Bruce was first diagnosed and I was frozen with fear and uncertainty.”

        Titled the “Unexpected Journey,” Emma added: “This is the book I trust will help the next caregiver. It is filled with support, insight, and the hope needed to navigate this journey.”

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        In a follow-up post, Emma shared a powerful message: “I wrote the book I wish someone had placed in my hands the day we got the diagnosis. This book is for all of us finding our way through the unknown with love, grit, and courage. You are not alone.”

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        Emma Heming Willis Opens Up About Bruce’s Diagnosis In Upcoming Book ‘The Unexpected Journey’

        MEGA

        “The Unexpected Journey” is set for release on September 9, just ahead of World FTD Awareness Week (September 21–28), and will be published under Maria Shriver’s imprint, The Open Field.

        According to the book’s description, Emma left the doctor’s office that day overwhelmed, and “all they were given was a pamphlet and told to check back in a few months. With no hope or direction.”

        It added: “Emma walked out of that doctor’s appointment frozen with fear, confusion, and a sense that her world had just fallen apart.”

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        “In fact, it had. Bruce and Emma had their story written and their future mapped out,” the description continued. “Yet all those dreams crumbled with that diagnosis, and Emma felt alone and more isolated than ever. How would she care for her husband while parenting their young daughters?”

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        Bruce Willis’s Wife Speaks About Her ‘Unexpected Journey’

        Bruce Willis and Emma Heming Willis.
        MEGA

        Looking back on what she calls her “unexpected journey,” Emma also opened up about the far-reaching impact of dementia.

        “Dementia not only affects your loved one but can shake a whole family’s foundation, and self, if you allow it,” she stated.

        For the model, seeking the right resources, knowledge, and clarity gave her the strength to keep going and “be the best mother, wife, daughter, friend, and care partner.”

        “I want to be able to share that with the next person who finds themselves here,” she said.

        Emma Heming Willis Reflects On The Vital Role Of Caregivers

        Bruce Willis and Emma Heming attend the Comedy Central "Roast of Bruce Willis" in Los Angeles
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        The “Red 2” actress has often used her platform to spotlight the emotional labor and quiet strength of caregivers, especially after the passing of Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa.

        Taking to Instagram to share a heartfelt message, she wrote: “So this is not something I would normally comment on, but I do really believe that there is some learning in this story in regards to the tragic passing of Mr. and Mrs. Hackman.”

        Emma continued, “It’s just made me think of this broader story, and that is that caregivers need care, too. And that they are vital, and that it is so important that we show up for them so that they can continue to show up for their person.”

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        Bruce Willis’ Wife Honors 16 Years Of Love And Resilience With The Actor

        Earlier in March, Emma paid a moving tribute to the man she calls her forever love, marking 16 years of partnership and resilience.

        “Today marks 16 years with the love of a lifetime. We’ve shared monumental highs and devastating lows, and through it all, we’ve built something timeless,” she wrote on Instagram with a photo of the two wrapped in a tight embrace.

        “I’m so deeply grateful for every chapter I’ve had with him—and all the ones we’ll continue to write, in our language of unconditional love.”

        In an Instagram Story, she posted a black-and-white photo of their hands intertwined. Her wedding rings shimmered subtly, while the number 321 was inked on what appeared to be Bruce’s finger.



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        A Step-by-Step Guide to Magic Eden’s Season 2 Rewards | NFT News Today

        A Step-by-Step Guide to Magic Eden’s Season 2 Rewards | NFT News Today


        Magic Eden’s Season 2 rewards program launched April 17, 2025, introducing revamped mechanisms for earning ME tokens through trading, staking, and platform engagement. The new system simplifies reward calculations, offers real-time tracking via hourly leaderboard updates, and expands eligible activities to include Bitcoin-based Runes and Ordinals trading.

        Key Takeaways

        Season 2 runs from April 17 to mid-August 2025, with rewards calculated using both trading volume and staking power.

        Staking ME tokens provides multipliers ranging from 1.07x (7-day lockup) to 3.65x (365-day lockup), with early adopters receiving a 5% bonus before May 1.

        Every $1 in trading volume adds 1 point to your leaderboard score, with bonus points for linking wallets and daily trading.

        The reward formula combines trading volume and staking power: Total rewards = (Trading volume × 0.15) + (Staking power × 0.10).

        Season 2 addresses Season 1 feedback by eliminating tranche-based rewards and focusing on individual performance metrics.

        How to Earn ME Tokens in Season 2

        Magic Eden’s Season 2 rewards program offers multiple pathways to earn ME tokens. The platform now tracks several activities that contribute to your overall rewards calculation. These include:

        Trading NFTs on the platform

        Swapping tokens (now including Bitcoin-based Runes and Ordinals)

        Staking ME tokens with various lockup periods

        Linking external wallets (one-time 50-point bonus per wallet)

        Unlike Season 1, which faced criticism for its complicated tranche system, Season 2 bases rewards solely on individual performance. This change makes the program more accessible to new users while rewarding consistent participants.

        Staking Strategies for Maximum Returns

        Staking serves as a powerful multiplier in the Season 2 rewards structure. The longer you commit to locking your tokens, the higher your staking power becomes.

        Here’s how the lockup periods affect your multiplier:

        7 days: 1.07x multiplier

        30 days: 1.30x multiplier

        90 days: 1.90x multiplier

        180 days: 2.80x multiplier

        365 days: 3.65x multiplier

        For example, if you stake 100 ME tokens for 30 days, your staking power becomes 130 (100 × 1.30). Once staked, tokens cannot be withdrawn until the lockup period ends, though you can extend durations retroactively to increase your multiplier.

        Magic Eden has added a helpful “Max” button on their staking dashboard that automatically allocates all available tokens in your wallet. Early birds who stake before May 1 receive an additional 5% bonus on staking multipliers for the first 30 days.

        Optimizing Your Trading Score

        Trading activity forms the backbone of the Season 2 rewards program. The system is straightforward—every $1 in trading volume adds 1 point to your leaderboard score. This applies across all eligible assets, including NFTs, tokens, and the newly integrated Runes and Ordinals.

        Data from the first week of Season 2 shows top 10% traders averaging 12,000+ points as of April 21, 2025. The leaderboard thresholds fluctuate hourly, so consistent trading is key to maintaining rank.

        Magic Eden has added several bonus opportunities to boost trading scores:

        Daily trade bonuses that increase with consecutive trading days

        A one-time 50-point bonus for each new wallet linked to your account

        Time Boosts feature giving 5-second clock advantages after winning three consecutive duels

        Using the Leaderboard to Track Progress

        The Season 2 leaderboard offers hourly updates, a significant improvement over Season 1’s limited transparency. The redesigned interface shows:

        This real-time feedback makes it easier to adjust your strategy based on current performance. The leaderboard also highlights how close you are to reaching the next reward tier, allowing for targeted efforts to improve your position.

        Understanding Reward Calculations

        Magic Eden has simplified the reward formula for Season 2:

        Total rewards = (Trading volume × 0.15) + (Staking power × 0.10)

        For example, if you accumulate $10,000 in trading volume and 500 staking power, your reward calculation would be:

        Trading component: $10,000 × 0.15 = 1,500 points

        Staking component: 500 × 0.10 = 50 points

        Total: 1,550 ME tokens

        Rewards are weighted toward the top 20% of participants, with distribution scheduled for mid-August 2025. For context, Season 1 distributed 10 million ME tokens worth approximately $8 million.

        Season 2 Timeline and Strategic Planning

        Season 2 runs from April 17 to mid-August 2025, providing ample time to build both trading volume and staking power. The program includes several time-sensitive advantages:

        Early-bird staking bonus (5% extra on multipliers) for those who stake before May 1

        Compounding benefits for long-term stakers (90+ days)

        Daily trading bonuses that increase over consecutive days

        Magic Eden’s simulation data suggests the optimal strategy combines high-frequency trading with long-term staking. Users who balance both activities tend to outperform those who focus exclusively on one approach.

        Improvements from Season 1

        Season 2 addresses several pain points from the inaugural rewards program:

        Elimination of confusing tranche-based allocations in favor of individual metrics

        Hourly leaderboard updates instead of limited visibility

        Clear percentile brackets showing exact standing

        Interactive elements like audio and association duels to increase engagement

        More balanced weighting between trading and staking activities

        These changes respond directly to community feedback after Season 1, which faced criticism for undervaluing long-term stakers and lacking transparency in reward calculations.



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        One Of Elaine’s Goofiest Subplots On Seinfeld Was A Last Minute Addition – SlashFilm

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          One Of Elaine’s Goofiest Subplots On Seinfeld Was A Last Minute Addition – SlashFilm






          Part of what made “Seinfeld” so fresh and original was that it was unlike any other sitcom that had aired on television before. Most of the plots throughout its stellar nine season run could veer into the realm of outlandish absurdity, but there would often be this human commonality at the center of their conception, like someone double dipping a chip at a party or trying to find your car in the parking garage. NBC had the nerve to give the greenlight to a story about a bet involving masturbation, and from the moment it aired, the vernacular introduced in “The Contest” has become a common turn of phrase. But sometimes, it’s the little things that make for a great episode.

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          In the season 8 episode, “The Muffin Tops,” everyone on the “Seinfeld” crew is having their own separate predicament. Jerry (Jerry Seinfeld) struggles with an itchy chest after shaving to appease his girlfriend, George (Jason Alexander) is pretending to be a tourist to get a date, and Kramer (Michael Richards) finds himself in an inception tour bus get-rich-quick scheme to capitalize on his fame. Yet it’s Elaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) who walks away with the best subplot, however ridiculous it is.

          The episode gets its namesake after Elaine tells her publishing boss Mr. Lippman (Richard Handy) that someone should open up a place where you can only buy muffin tops. Not too long afterwards, she discovers a new store run by him called “Top of the Muffin to You.” But when profits are starting to drop, Mr. Lippman brings Elaine into the business, which is like a dream come true. From Kramer trying to get rid of the muffin stumps to Newman (Wayne Knight) devouring them all, “The Muffin Tops,” which features Rebecca De Mornay (not that one), takes advantage of a hilarious scenario that almost didn’t go through.

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          The Muffin Tops subplot happened because of a misunderstanding

          In a behind the scenes featurette, “Seinfeld” writer Spike Feresten talks about how he initially had an idea for a subplot involving a bearcat scanner. He decided to veer in a different direction, claiming that an episode of “Frasier” beat him to the punch only a few days before the episode was about to shoot. It sounds like a reasonable excuse, especially not wanting to swim in similar waters of one of the most successful spin-off shows of all time, but the only issue is that he’s wrong — or at the very least, misremembering.

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          I did some digging because I was curious as to what episode Feresten could have been referring to, but after cross checking the dates of the episode’s 1997 production date with the episodes of “Frasier” that aired around that time, I came to the conclusion there was no such episode that had a plot involving bearcat scanners. It turns out no one else on the internet could, either, and the internet remembers everything. Whether Feresten was misremembering an episode of a different show or simply needed an excuse to write something different, it’s all for the best, because the muffin tops storyline is hilarious.

          Feresten came up with the subplot on account of a girlfriend who didn’t bother with the muffin stumps after she ate the top. I see the vision, to an extent: The muffin tops really are the best part. There’s nothing wrong with the stumps, but it’s not as exciting to chomp into them once the edges are gone. But the idea of making batches of batches upon muffins and essentially tossing out half of your product really plays into the psychotic behavior of this world. If only Elaine knew that you would eventually be able to buy muffin tops at the store without having to go to the trouble of stuffing bags of uneaten stumps in the back of your friend’s makeshift tour bus.

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          Every episode of “Seinfeld” is currently streaming on Netflix.




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          Furious Jeff Brazier doubles down on feud with Jackiey Budden as he finally addresses lawsuit to stop her seeing his sons

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            Furious Jeff Brazier doubles down on feud with Jackiey Budden as he finally addresses lawsuit to stop her seeing his sons


            Jeff Brazier has spoken out amid his legal battle with Jackiey Budden.

            For more than a decade Jeff, 45 and Jackiey, 68 – who is Jade Goody’s mum – have been at loggerheads. Earlier this year, it was reported that he is taking legal action to stop her from spending time with his son Freddy, 20.

            Now, Jeff – who appears on the new series of BBC’s Pilgrimage today (April 20) – has doubled down on the feud with Jackiey.

            Jeff has reportedly launched legal action against Jackiey (Credit: YouTube)

            Jeff Brazier and Jackiey Budden ‘feud’

            TV star Jeff shared both Freddy and Bobby, 21, with late star Jade Goody – who died from cervical cancer in 2009 aged just 27.

            However, Jeff has been in a long-running ‘feud’ with her mother Jackiey for years. The animosity between them reportedly began shortly after the death of Jade.

            Ever since, Jeff and Jade’s mum haven’t seen eye-to-eye. And it was recently reported that he wants to prevent her from spending time with Freddy.

            It’s believed that Jeff feels Freddy’s relationship with Jackiey has been “detrimental to him”. Sources claimed he is “concerned” about his son, and that he is “going down this route” to keep Freddy safe.

            And now, amid his reported legal action to “protect” Freddy from Jackiey, Jeff has opened up about the ordeal.

            Jeff Brazier and Freddie Brazier on Celebrity Race Across the World

            The proud dad has addressed the ‘feud’ (Credit: BBC)

            Jeff Brazier ‘would not see it differently’

            Jeff is one of many famous faces taking part in the new series of Pilgrimage this year.

            In the BBC show, Jeff, and other celebs like Jay McGuiness and Helen Lederer, embark on a reflective and spiritual journey.

            And according to Jeff, the pilgrimage gave him the time and space “to clarify the direction I needed to go in”.

            However, talking to Radio Times, he insisted that experience has not changed his mind about his feud with Jackiey.

            “You could leave me on a hilltop for two years and I would not see it differently,” Jeff said.

            ‘I was denying myself all the emotions’

            He also discussed his faith before the tragic death of Jade and said: “My early reflection on God was that if there is a God, then these things would not have happened to me.”

            However, it was while raising his two young sons when his perception changed. He explained: “By the time the boys lost their mum, turning to God was not an option. I just knew I had to [raise them].

            “I had a can-do attitude. But it was a shield and I was denying myself all the emotions.”

            Watch Jeff on Pilgrimage on Sunday (April 20) at 9:00pm on BBC Two. 

            Read more: Jeff Brazier admits his family ‘need’ much ‘missed’ Jade Goody amid ongoing legal drama with her mother, Jackiey Budden

            YouTube video player

            So what do you think of this story? You can leave us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know.



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