Trending News
Rare June Snowfall at Babusar Top Attracts Thousands of Tourists
Chinese Exchange Praises SECP Reforms, Signals Stronger Investment Interest in Pakistan
Sialkot International Airport Introduces Pakistan’s First Explosive Detection System for Cargo Security
Why Nuclear Energy Matters for Pakistan’s Future Power Needs: A Technical Perspective
Pakistan’s FY2026-27 Budget Approved: Key Tax Relief, Development Spending and EV Reforms Explained

Business

BusinessEconomyMarketingNews
bywebdesk

Chinese Exchange Praises SECP Reforms, Signals Stronger Investment Interest in Pakistan

BusinessEconomyLifestyleNewsTravel
bywebdesk

Sialkot International Airport Introduces Pakistan’s First Explosive Detection System for Cargo Security

BusinessEconomyEventsNews
bywebdesk

Pakistan’s FY2026-27 Budget Approved: Key Tax Relief, Development Spending and EV Reforms Explained

BusinessEconomyLifestyleNewsTravel
bywebdesk

PIA Boosts Free Baggage Allowance for Beijing Route to Enhance Passenger Experience

Rising School Pressures, Declining Family Support: Alarming Trends Among Pakistani Kids

In a recent report, the World Health Organization (WHO) highlighted concerning trends among children in Pakistan. The study reveals that children feel a notable decline in family support, while academic pressures continue to rise, significantly impacting their mental health and well-being. This shift reflects the global trend of increasing expectations on young students, but in Pakistan, the impact appears particularly pronounced.

According to experts, children in Pakistan face heightened academic pressure due to competitive schooling environments and demanding curriculums, especially in urban centers. As children spend more hours at school and in tutoring centers, they have less time for family interaction and relaxation. Additionally, parents’ high expectations often contribute to feelings of inadequacy among students, further exacerbating stress.

The report underscores the need for mental health support systems within schools. Mental health professionals suggest incorporating activities that foster family bonding, including family-friendly events at schools and counseling services for children and parents. Recognizing the early signs of stress and providing resources to manage academic anxiety can be crucial in helping children balance educational demands and family life.

This emerging scenario calls for collective efforts from schools, families, and policymakers to help Pakistani children thrive in both educational and emotional aspects of their lives. A balanced approach is essential for the well-being and holistic growth of the young generation.

Hajj 2025: Religious Ministry and PIA Collaborate for Seamless Pilgrim Flights

As preparations for Hajj 2025 begin, Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs and Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) have signed an agreement to streamline travel arrangements for Pakistani pilgrims. This cooperation aims to ensure that Hajj flights run smoothly, with a special focus on accommodating the needs of pilgrims from various regions across Pakistan.

Under this partnership, PIA has pledged to operate dedicated flights for Hajj pilgrims, likely providing flexibility in flight scheduling and potentially reduced airfare rates. The agreement includes expanded services for pilgrims’ comfort, including special check-in counters and improved baggage handling. With this new arrangement, PIA and the ministry also hope to mitigate past challenges like delayed flights and lack of adequate facilities.

PIA is expected to introduce direct flights from major Pakistani cities to Saudi Arabia, covering routes from Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. These efforts come as part of an overarching initiative to improve the Hajj experience for Pakistanis by minimizing logistical hurdles and enhancing in-flight services. Religious officials have also confirmed that they are working on further improving accommodations and ground transportation for pilgrims in Saudi Arabia.

This collaboration between PIA and the religious ministry is being seen as a significant improvement in Hajj management, aiming to make the pilgrimage experience more comfortable and affordable for the nation’s citizens. Many believe that this proactive planning will ultimately benefit Pakistan’s pilgrims by reducing stress and ensuring a smoother journey.

Wedding bus falls into River Indus, claims 14 lives

14 people lost their valuable lives when a wedding bus fell into the Indus River in northern Pakistan on Tuesday. The Gilgit-Baltistan authorities have reported that there were 27 passengers on the bus. As of now, one has been rescued with injuries and 12 are unaccounted for.

Reports of the incident say that it occurred close to the Telchi bridge in Diamer district. According to reports, the cause of the mishap was over-speeding, and the driver lost control as a consequence. According to eyewitnesses, the bus formed part of a wedding procession heading for Chakwal district when it turned off the road and plunged into the river.

Wedding Bus Victims Yet to be Recognized

The rescue mission for the missing passengers is underway but the quick flow of the Indus River also prevented the rescue team from looking for the victims. Rescuers including divers are working overtime to retrieve bodies and are assuring the survivor.

Road accidents are a recurring tragedy in Pakistan, which always keep happening, especially in the rural and mountainous regions. The reason is that infrastructure is often meagre, and traffic regulations are frequently ignored. Poor road conditions and reckless driving are major contributors to the high number of fatal incidents.

This is the second disaster of this type in months. The first was in August, when two separate bus crashes in north and south Pakistan accounted for at least 34 deaths. Fatal accidents are happening alarmingly often despite repeated appeals for stricter enforcement of traffic laws and better road safety measures.

The Gilgit-Baltistan government has sent condolences to the families of the victims and promised it will probe the circumstances that led to the crash. Authorities have also called upon drivers to be on the lookout, especially on mountain roads that are full of hazardous bends and curves.

This tragedy underlines how more such tragedies are required only because the safety measures have improved and roads have gotten better.

Also, see:

Finland and Pakistan to boost bilateral trade: What it means for the country?

Finland and Pakistan to boost bilateral trade: What it means for the country?

In an effort to boost bilateral trade, Hannu Ripatti, the Ambassador of Finland to Pakistan, on Tuesday met with Federal Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan. During the meeting, they discussed strategies aimed at bolstering economic ties with new areas for mutual benefit.

Pakistan Minister Khan renewed Islamabad’s commitment to a stronger economic partnership with Finland. He also called for sparking latent sectors, including education, information technology, textiles, healthcare, construction, and social development. “There is huge trade potential through enhanced coordination with our Finnish counterparts,” Khan said.

Another significant factor is the “Pakistan National Compliance Council (NCC),” whereby local products conform to international quality standards. According to Khan, NCC works to upgrade the export competitiveness of Pakistani exports in the world market.

Finland and Pakistan to boost bilateral trade: How will Pakistan contribute?

Ambassador Ripatti appreciated the efforts done and commented on the enormous value of Pakistan’s skilful workforce. He appreciated Pakistani engineers and technicians as highly valued assets, and they would be able to meet the anticipated global demands. Ripatti also challenged Finnish industries to utilize Pakistan’s cost-effective, skilled professionals to fortify Finland’s economy.

The ambassador pointed to Finland’s contributions to Pakistan’s education sector, especially through technical training of university students. This cooperation benefits Finnish enterprises and has a double effect in giving Pakistani youth skills that could be applied elsewhere across the world.

They also discussed the possibility of having a Finnish government delegation visit Pakistan, which will aid in making future agreements more resilient as well as enhance investments. Khan welcomed Finnish businesses to invest in Pakistan and added that the country’s labour was cheap but highly trained.

The ambassador formally requested Minister Khan to attend the upcoming Finland-Pakistan Business Forum in Karachi. This forum would discuss potential joint ventures and investment opportunities between the businesses of both countries.

Optimism was reflected by both sides, as they shared the vision of a strong economic relationship through the growth of emerging sectors and taking long-term partnerships forward.

Also, see:

Indian Army Gets Direct Permission to Manage Social Media Content

Punjab’s New Guidelines for Smog Control in Public Transport

In response to worsening air quality during the winter season, Punjab’s government has implemented new guidelines to curb smog, focusing particularly on the transport sector. Under the new regulations, public transport vehicles are now required to meet specific emission standards. The guidelines also mandate regular inspections and emissions testing for both public and private vehicles, with heavy penalties for those failing to comply.

Transport sector emissions, combined with industrial pollution and agricultural practices, contribute significantly to Punjab’s smog crisis each year, especially in Lahore. The government’s new policies include stricter enforcement of industrial emissions near urban areas, initiatives to promote green vehicles, and increased tree plantation campaigns aimed at reducing overall air pollution.

Punjab’s approach reflects a growing awareness of the health impacts of smog, including respiratory issues, and the necessity of proactive measures to manage air quality.

The government’s comprehensive strategy is a part of Punjab’s broader environmental policy to address both short-term air quality challenges and long-term pollution reduction goals. With continued monitoring and enforcement, these guidelines aim to safeguard public health and comply with national and international environmental standards.

Denmark’s $2 Billion Investment in Pakistan’s Maritime Sector

A Danish corporation has pledged a groundbreaking $2 billion investment in Pakistan’s maritime industry, focusing on improving port infrastructure, modernizing logistics, and potentially incorporating renewable energy into port operations. This investment is expected to drive significant economic growth, creating employment opportunities and boosting trade efficiency, as well as positioning Pakistan’s ports as pivotal hubs in South Asia for regional trade.

With increasing interest from foreign investors, the maritime sector could become a cornerstone of Pakistan’s economic reform strategy, aligning with government ambitions to bolster exports and reduce import expenses. Denmark’s investment aligns with Pakistan’s goals for sustainable economic development, as Danish companies may also collaborate with local firms to enhance eco-friendly technology integration within the ports.

This investment indicates growing confidence in Pakistan’s economic policies and its openness to foreign direct investment, which could further attract other international partners to participate in similar initiatives in logistics, energy, and manufacturing.

The $2 billion investment has the potential to transform Pakistan’s maritime capabilities, streamline shipping processes, and ultimately lower trade costs. This project is expected to advance Pakistan’s export sector by reducing port congestion and delays, making Pakistani goods more competitive in international markets.

PM Shehbaz Attends COP29 in Azerbaijan

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s participation in COP29, hosted in Azerbaijan, underscores Pakistan’s commitment to tackling climate change and advocating for greater climate justice on the global stage. Representing one of the most climate-vulnerable countries, the PM is expected to highlight Pakistan’s recent experiences with extreme weather events, including severe floods, heatwaves, and glacial melting, which collectively damage infrastructure, displace populations, and strain the economy. The Pakistani government’s position stresses that the nation’s carbon footprint is relatively small, but it suffers disproportionately from global climate impacts.

At COP29, Pakistan plans to advocate for stronger climate financing commitments, particularly from developed nations. These include calls for the $100 billion climate finance pledge, which is critical for enabling countries like Pakistan to fund adaptation and mitigation initiatives.

COP29 also presents an opportunity for Pakistan to share its efforts toward sustainability, including recent investments in renewable energy projects and a national tree plantation campaign aimed at improving carbon sequestration and land restoration.

In addition to securing financial assistance, Pakistan is focused on developing collaborative projects with international partners that support its adaptation and resilience goals. Prime Minister Sharif will meet with key leaders and climate experts to discuss innovative financing mechanisms, technology transfers, and knowledge-sharing practices that could strengthen Pakistan’s response to climate challenges.

The PM’s participation reaffirms Pakistan’s commitment to the Paris Agreement and global climate governance, contributing to discussions on sustainable development and responsible environmental stewardship.

Pakistan’s Alternative Plan for Tax Shortfall

In response to a serious revenue shortfall, Pakistan’s government is drafting an alternative fiscal strategy to meet its financial commitments and secure essential support from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) reported a revenue shortfall of Rs. 192 billion within the first four months of the fiscal year, well below the national target. This shortfall has prompted Pakistan to consider a “mini-budget” aimed at enhancing revenue through increased taxes and new levies.

Key measures under consideration include a 5% increase in excise duty on sugary drinks, which would yield around Rs. 2.3 billion monthly, and a 1% advance tax on industrial raw materials and machinery imports, generating an additional Rs. 5.5 billion each month. These proposed adjustments follow a trend of recent tax reforms, reflecting Pakistan’s ongoing struggle to balance economic stability with the IMF’s stringent fiscal requirements for continued loan disbursement​

The IMF’s conditions for Pakistan’s $7 billion bailout program require meeting set fiscal targets and introducing broader taxation measures, including potentially higher GST rates and removal of tax exemptions on goods like luxury imports. Beyond the immediate measures, Pakistan aims to implement a more progressive tax system with increases on certain income brackets, real estate, and possibly agricultural income. Achieving the target revenue of Rs. 2.157 trillion by the fiscal year-end will be crucial for stabilizing Pakistan’s budget and securing future IMF support, which remains essential for the country’s economic stability amid persistent fiscal challenges and inflationary pressures.

Free Study Opportunity for Pakistani Students in France

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) Summer School 2025 is a fully funded, prestigious opportunity for Pakistani students, researchers, and healthcare professionals aiming to deepen their expertise in cancer research and public health. Hosted in Lyon, France, this programme brings together experts and learners from around the world to focus on critical areas such as cancer epidemiology, prevention, and early detection.

Programme Highlights

  • Location: Lyon, France
  • Coverage: Fully funded (airfare, accommodation, and course fees)
  • Focus Areas: Cancer prevention, early detection, research methods, and epidemiology
  • Eligibility: Open to graduate students, researchers, and public health professionals, especially from low- and middle-income countries
  • Language Requirement: Proficiency in written and spoken English

Programme Structure

The programme includes:

  1. Online Training: Preliminary virtual training to provide foundational knowledge.
  2. In-Person Sessions in France: Hands-on learning with global experts in cancer research and control.

How to Apply

Interested Pakistani students and professionals should apply online. The deadline for applications is January 6, 2025. Make sure you meet the language requirements and are committed to participating in both the online and in-person sessions.

To apply, visit the official portal: [Click here to apply].

This is a unique chance to gain advanced training in cancer research, expand your professional network, and contribute to global health.

Lahore Bans Outdoor Activities Amid Rising Smog Crisis

Lahore, Pakistan’s second-largest city, has imposed a ban on outdoor activities as smog levels rise, posing severe health risks to residents. This ban applies particularly to sports and other recreational gatherings in public spaces, as air quality in Lahore has reached dangerous levels, with pollutants well above the World Health Organization’s recommended limits.

The government has introduced several emergency measures, including restrictions on industrial emissions and a partial ban on construction activities in the city, to curb the causes of pollution. Schools have also been instructed to hold classes online when possible, as the city continues to grapple with hazardous air.

Environmental activists argue that while these measures are necessary, they are short-term solutions and that Lahore needs a comprehensive strategy to address its pollution crisis, including improved public transportation and stringent enforcement of emissions laws.

This year’s smog season has brought renewed attention to environmental and health issues in Pakistan’s urban centers, with Lahore’s air quality issues becoming a symbol of broader challenges in sustainable urban management across the country

Pakistan’s Possible Withdrawal from Champions Trophy 2025

Amidst escalating security concerns, Pakistan may consider withdrawing from the Champions Trophy scheduled for 2025. Sources close to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have indicated that internal discussions are ongoing regarding the feasibility of Pakistan’s participation in the tournament.

These concerns stem from recent regional tensions and logistical challenges that could affect the team’s security and preparation.

Pakistan’s participation in international cricket tournaments has been increasingly complicated by political issues and security fears, particularly in tournaments hosted by neighboring countries. Although no formal announcement has been made, PCB officials have reportedly conveyed their concerns to the International Cricket Council (ICC), stressing that player safety is paramount.

Cricket fans and analysts are closely watching for updates as the potential withdrawal could affect the ICC’s planning and impact the tournament’s overall structure. For Pakistan, the decision underscores the complex relationship between sports and geopolitics in the region, as cricket remains a significant but often sensitive area of international relations​

Iraq’s new law on marriage: 9-year-old girls can now get married

Iraq is said to be moving in the direction of reviewing a law on marriage that can technically allow males to marry girls as young as nine, following powerful Shia Muslim blocs in the country’s parliament pushing for changes to the personal status law that would allow them to lower the legal age of marriage and give men more authority over family affairs. The critics say it could critically cut off women’s rights and allow exploitation of girls who may lose protection under the new scale.

It would mark a milestone in a move away from what was enacted by Iraq’s Law 188 of 1959, enacted after the fall of the monarchy. That law had updated family laws to make religious authorities yield to the state judiciary. The new changes would see that power returned to the religious figures. It makes sense under Islamic law and keeps girls from what they call “immoral” relationships, argues advocates for the change.

However, the steps have stoked fiery resistance. Protesters and human rights activists say the law will strip women of some rights, including divorce, child custody, and inheritance. A senior fellow at Chatham House, Dr. Renad Mansour, says, “This is as close as this amendment has ever come to being passed. Shia factions pushing for this amendment are motivated by a desire to reclaim ground that they believe has eroded somewhat over the past few years.”

This is not the first attempt to amend the family laws of Iraq, but it is the most aggressive yet. The bill passed an important second reading in parliament in September, making it a safe bet to go further than the various attempts in the past. Critics of human rights groups say that the reform would just hasten child marriages because clerics would then possess more power to perform these outside the control of civil institutions.

The United Nations’ children’s agency, UNICEF, argues that child marriage is still a problem in Iraq since 28% of girls are married before they turn 18 years old despite the official banning of the practice in the 1950s. Critics argue that this amendment is a way of normalization if religious authorities are allowed to validate marriages involving minor girls, undermining the rights of all girls.

Also, see:

Indian Army Gets Direct Permission to Manage Social Media Content

Punjab Trails KP in Federal Economic Performance Report

In a recently published federal report on provincial economic performance, Punjab was shown to lag behind Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) in several key economic indicators. This annual report evaluates provinces based on economic productivity, employment growth, social services delivery, and infrastructure development, with KP’s recent improvements highlighting areas where Punjab has fallen behind.

KP’s performance has been attributed to targeted investments in infrastructure and public services, with federal support focused on sectors such as healthcare, education, and transport. The report emphasizes that while Punjab remains a major contributor to Pakistan’s GDP, the province has been slower in adopting innovative economic strategies compared to KP.

Analysts suggest that Punjab’s performance can be bolstered by addressing infrastructure deficits and enhancing industrial diversification. This disparity has sparked discussions around how provinces can adopt distinct policies that align with their unique resources and challenges. Such adjustments, experts argue, are crucial for promoting balanced regional development and reducing economic disparities across Pakistan

MDCAT 2024 Expected Retake Date Announced After Controversy

After widespread calls from students and their families, the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has confirmed a retake date for the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT) 2024. The retake, scheduled for late December 2024, comes after reported irregularities and mismanagement in the administration of the initial examination earlier in the year.

Students alleged that the exam was poorly conducted, with logistical mishaps and questions outside the prescribed syllabus. In response to the widespread criticism and student protests, PMDC initiated an inquiry into the claims and eventually resolved to conduct a retake, giving students a second chance at a fair assessment.

The decision has been welcomed by students who were impacted by the alleged inconsistencies, though some stakeholders have raised concerns about the time and resource demands associated with organizing a retake. The PMDC aims to ensure a transparent and well-organized examination this time, in hopes of restoring public trust in the MDCAT process. This situation has underscored the need for improved examination standards and robust oversight within Pakistan’s medical education system​

Pakistan Govt Moves to Block Unregistered VPNs Amid Internet Security Concerns

In a recent policy shift, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has announced a decisive step to block unregistered Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), a move that reflects broader goals of internet regulation and digital security within the country. The PTA has clarified that registered VPNs for businesses and specific organizations will still be allowed, aiming to balance privacy with governmental oversight.

This policy began with PTA’s 2020 directive, which required businesses to register their VPNs to avoid disruptions in service. Since then, over 20,000 IPs have been registered by entities including IT firms, software houses, and freelancers. The current VPN registration process has been expedited with a “one-window operation,” intended to make registration straightforward for legitimate users in essential sectors such as software development and international call centers.

Concerns around this policy are growing, with critiques centering on potential impacts on digital privacy and freedom of access. The government’s move, which appears inspired by countries with stringent internet laws like China and Dubai, comes amid increased internet restrictions and issues such as reduced speeds due to firewall testing. These developments have not only impacted regular users but also raised concerns in the IT sector about how internet speed and accessibility may hinder Pakistan’s digital economy, which relies heavily on a steady connection and secure VPN channels for overseas communication. PTA’s initiatives suggest a more controlled internet ecosystem; however, this raises questions about user rights and freedoms as the country moves towards

PM Shehbaz Sharif to Attend Arab Islamic Summit and COP29

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to participate in two high-profile international events this month: the Arab Islamic Summit in Riyadh and the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference, known as COP29. At the Arab Islamic Summit, PM Shehbaz aims to strengthen Pakistan’s ties with the Muslim world and discuss issues affecting Islamic nations, including economic collaboration, energy challenges, and regional security concerns.

The summit, which will bring together leaders from numerous Muslim-majority countries, provides a unique platform for Pakistan to voice its concerns about issues like Palestine, Islamophobia, and regional tensions. Pakistan is expected to advocate for unity and increased cooperation among member states to address shared challenges. These discussions are seen as crucial for enhancing Pakistan’s role on the international stage and its relations within the Muslim world.

PM Shehbaz’s attendance at COP29 underscores Pakistan’s ongoing commitment to tackling climate change, a critical issue that disproportionately affects countries like Pakistan. As a developing nation frequently hit by climate disasters, Pakistan will call for increased support from developed nations. The PM is expected to emphasize the urgent need for climate financing, adaptation strategies, and fair distribution of resources. Pakistan’s active participation in these events reflects its dedication to addressing both regional and global challenges.

Six Militants Killed, Six Arrested in North Waziristan Operation

In a decisive counter-terrorism operation, Pakistan’s security forces killed six militants and arrested another six during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in North Waziristan. The operation targeted a notorious faction known as Khawarij, an extremist group involved in planning attacks against both military and civilian targets. This successful mission demonstrates Pakistan’s firm stance against terrorism in its border regions.

Security sources confirmed that the operation was part of an ongoing effort to clear the North Waziristan area of militant activity. The group members were found with a cache of weapons, explosives, and communications equipment, indicating they were in the advanced stages of planning attacks. This recent success is expected to provide valuable intelligence on the group’s networks and other possible threats in the area.

Increased operations in North Waziristan have been part of Pakistan’s broader counter-terrorism strategy aimed at securing the border regions. Security forces have carried out multiple similar missions over the past few months to weaken militant strongholds and limit their influence. The six captured militants will undergo interrogation, which authorities hope will yield information on other groups and planned attacks. The government remains committed to restoring peace and stability in this strategically vital region.

Five Killed in Tragic Fog-Related Accident Near Gharo

Five individuals lost their lives in a tragic road accident near Gharo, Sindh, due to dense fog that severely reduced visibility. The accident, which involved a passenger bus and a truck on the National Highway, unfolded early in the morning when the fog was at its thickest. Local rescue teams arrived at the scene promptly, but the heavy fog complicated their efforts.

The passengers who survived the collision sustained a range of injuries and were immediately transported to local hospitals for treatment. This incident highlights the frequent dangers of road travel during the winter months in Pakistan, where foggy conditions lead to numerous accidents each year. Road safety experts have advised drivers to be extra cautious, especially in fog-prone areas, and to ensure their vehicles are well-lit.

Authorities have consistently issued warnings about foggy conditions, urging drivers to exercise patience and reduce speed. This recent accident has reignited calls for better road safety measures on national highways. Many citizens believe that enhanced lighting, increased patrols, and stricter enforcement of speed limits could help prevent similar tragedies in the future. Awareness campaigns may also be launched to educate drivers about the risks of winter road travel.

Mark Zuckerberg wins lawsuit, not liable for social media addiction in children

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg won a federal judge ruling that makes him personally not responsible in 25 lawsuits accusing the company of allowing social media addiction in children. Cases allege Facebook and Instagram expose younger users to “significant risks” to mental health.

U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers in Oakland, California, dismissed claims that Zuckerberg himself masterminded the cover-up of these dangers. Plaintiffs had accused Zuckerberg of being the “guiding spirit” behind these alleged concealment strategies as Meta’s co-founder said he ignored and downplayed public warnings in social media regarding various cases of mental health risks.

In any event, the judge said there was insufficient evidence directly linking Zuckerberg to the alleged wrongdoing. She said that mere corporate oversight fails to reach the personal liability threshold. With the acquittal of Zuckerberg, the broader claims against Meta are still active.

13 states file complaints against Mark Zuckerberg

There are complaints filed under the laws of 13 states, among them New York, Texas, and Virginia. This is part of a larger legal fight. The plaintiffs, represented by attorney Previn Warren, vow to continue investigating how “Big Tech prioritizes profits over children’s safety.”

Of these, 25 cases are among hundreds that target big tech companies like Meta, Google, TikTok, and Snapchat. The class actions, filed by children, parents, and school districts, seek damages for what they say social media addiction has wrought: anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, and myriad impacts on education.

Hundreds of state attorneys general are also suing, contending companies like Facebook and Instagram contribute to widespread mental health harm to young people.

The case, formally titled In re Social Media Adolescent Addiction/Personal Injury Products Liability Litigation, remains in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. Meta hasn’t commented on the latest ruling.

Also, see:

Bijli Sahulat Package: Winter Relief for Electricity Consumers in Pakistan

Kidnappers release WonderFi CEO after taking CAD 1 million ransom

The latest casualty in the spate of violent ransom attacks on crypto leaders is Dean Skurka, CEO of Canadian cryptocurrency firm WonderFi. Reports indicate that Skurka was taken at rush hour Wednesday and put into a car before being forced to transfer CAD 1 million to his captors. Skurka was released without harm, according to reports with CBC.

This is just the tip of the iceberg of a growing wave of violent crimes against cryptocurrency executives. A security firm told CBC that Skurka’s case is the 171st such case of physical violence linked to crypto theft. Such crimes continue to rise with the increasing value and popularity of digital currencies, positioning industry leaders at higher risk.

It’s rather odd that the attack happened just one day after WonderFi reported its third-quarter financial result, showing nine months of revenue at CAD 41 million. That is an incredible performance and proves that this indeed is the biggest in Canada’s crypto space. Furthermore, the attack occurred at the time when Bitcoin added yet another milestone to the cryptocurrency, as it reached a historic high of over $76,000.

The company, WonderFi, has raised hundreds of millions of dollars from some of the most high-profile investors in the world, including Shark Tank’s Kevin O’Leary, and seemed to explode out of nowhere. But its success in the wild crypto market may have left its leadership more vulnerable to targeted attacks.

Relief was supposed to come in the form of Skurka’s safe release, but what is thrown out of this incident is a very disturbing trend. As digital assets’ prices go up, the risk does as well for those at the helm of crypto firms. Now, experts are calling for enhanced security protocols that will ensure the safety of execs and investors from such threats.

Also, see:

Indian Army Gets Direct Permission to Manage Social Media Content