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23 Things That Used To Be "Good"...Until They Became Way, Way, Way, Wayyy Too Popular
"National parks are ruined. I remember when the entrance was free... Now, there are permits, reservations, waiting lines, fast food, crowds, and trash everywhere."
What it's like flying Southwest after all the changes; A-List helped
I hit the spending threshhold on my Chase Reserve card in 2025 to secure free A-List status on Southwest. Now, I wouldn't fly the airline without it.
In Alaska's U.S. Senate race, Peltola takes aim at 'crooked' political elites
If you follow Mary Peltola on social media, maybe you’ve noticed that the former Alaska congresswoman is talking about more than fish, family and freedom as she runs for U.S. Senate.
Oregon gave millions in erroneous benefits for state health plan, audit says
By Shaanth Nanguneri, Oregon Capital Chronicle SALEM, Ore. -- A free Oregon health care program for adults who make too much money to qualify for Medicaid could have improperly given out $15 million in payments related to benefits for recipients, according to a recent audit of state-managed federal programs. The “questioned” funds surfaced in an 124-page
How The PENN Entertainment (PENN) Turnaround Story Is Shifting With New Targets And ESPN Progress
PENN Entertainment's fair value estimate has shifted from US$18.44 to US$19.11 per share, putting it closer to a cluster of recent Street targets in the mid to high teens and low US$20s. This revision aligns with analyst commentary that combines optimism around the interactive segment and free cash flow with lingering doubts about management credibility and the turnaround story. Read on to see how to track these changing targets and keep up with the evolving narrative around PENN. Analyst...
Caesars Entertainment the Latest to Offer All-Inclusive Packages for Las Vegas Hotels
Caesars Entertainment is offering its guests summer value options with the launch of its Inclusive Summer Package, a bundled hotel experience at Harrah’s L | The package includes accommodations, taxes, resort fees, two meals per day at dining outlets, bottomless drinks, High Roller Observation Wheel tickets and free self-parking.
Do your kids play sports? Here’s how to keep it fun and stress free
The American Academy of Pediatrics reports 40% to 50% of youth athletes feel stressed by sports-related expectations. So how can parents help their children enjoy the game without feeling overwhelmed?
From 'Five Nights at Freddy's 2' to 'Crime 101,' 10 movies to stream now
Need a good movie? Watch these 10 at home now, including "Five Nights at Freddy's 2" and "Pizza Movie." All are free on your streaming services.
That ACA subsidy isn’t free money. It could cost you at tax time.
If your income exceeds the amount you estimated, you will probably qualify for less in assistance and will have to pay money back.
Six Easter egg hunts on Cape Cod for kids and dogs
A half-dozen places on Cape Cod offer free Easter egg hunts -- some with a visit from the Easter Bunny himself.
Convenience stores welcome Barnstable's rejection to restrict tobacco sales
Barnstable's health board recently mulled a Nicotine Free Generation policy. What they said.
New Webinar Series Explores Relationship Between Microbiome and Health
The free virtual series is open to students, researchers, clinicians and anyone from the public with an interest in microbiome science.
Fantasy Bundesliga: Scout squads for Matchday 28
Bulinews' Fantasy Bundesliga writers have each put together a squad of 10 outfield players for the upcoming matchday.Managers have full freedom with formations, but squads can’t exceed 110M, can onl...
Never had the flu? Scientists may know why
Scientists estimate somewhere between 5%-35% of people do not get sick from the flu despite being exposed to the virus that causes it. Now, researchers may have figured out why. The team looked at mouthwash samples from 19 healthcare workers who, despite frequent contact with infected patients, report never getting flu symptoms. Today on Short Wave, we talk about how what they found could help scientists develop treatments and strategies to protect people who do get the flu. If you liked this episode, check out our show on an effort to map the entire immune system.Interested in more health science? Email us your question at shortwave@npr.org.Listen to every episode of Short Wave sponsor-free and support our work at NPR by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave.
Injury strikes Tobias Harris but Daniss Jenkins delivers for Pistons
Detroit Pistons score: Tobias Harris left in the 1st half with a knee injury, but Jalen Duren had a double-double in the Pistons' win over Minnesota.
Tobias Harris injury update; Forward exits Pistons game vs Minnesota
Detroit Pistons forward Tobias Harris was ruled out in the second quarter after injuring his knee against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Kane Brown, Wiz Khalifa and Bret Michaels to headline NFL Draft Entertainment Series
The picks are in! Kane Brown, Wiz Khalifa and Bret Michaels are set as headliners in the free NFL Draft Entertainment Series.
Kane Brown, Wiz Khalifa and Bret Michaels to headline NFL Draft Entertainment Series
The picks are in! Kane Brown, Wiz Khalifa and Bret Michaels are set as headliners in the free NFL Draft Entertainment Series.
Kane Brown, Wiz Khalifa and Bret Michaels to headline NFL Draft Entertainment Series
The picks are in! Kane Brown, Wiz Khalifa and Bret Michaels are set as headliners in the free NFL Draft Entertainment Series.
Samsung TVs are getting a free upgrade that makes casting much easier
Samsung Smart TVs are gaining native Google Cast support via a new update.
USDA Issues Public Health Alert for Great Value Dino Chicken Nuggets Sold Nationwide
Time to check your freezer.
GTA+ Members Can Claim a Free Bravado Buffalo STX Pursuit Law Enforcement Vehicle
Get behind the wheel of the aggressive Bravado Buffalo STX Pursuit Law Enforcement Vehicle now available to GTA+ Members one week before everyone else on April 9. Enjoy other great benefits including bonuses for Dispatch Work and Bail Office Bounties,...
Claim Resident Evil 30th Anniversary PS5, PS4 Freebies for PSN
Resident Evil is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2026, and to get in on the celebrations, PlayStation is offering up some digital freebies
RFK Jr. To Finally Face The Music For Failed Anti-Science Agenda: Public Health Project Newsletter
Over the last year plus, Trump Health Secretary RFK Jr. has seemingly been everywhere promoting his personal brand and greatest hits of evidence-free anti-science conspiracy theories – everywhere but communities...
These Good Health snacks pass the lunchbox test (and taste good too!)
Looking for healthier snacks for you and your kiddos? Good Health has a guilt-free lineup of veggie straws, chips and more.
Grab These Resident Evil PSN Avatars for Free This Month
Mark the 30th anniversary on your PSN profile
Tina Peters, Colorado Election Denier, Has Prison Sentence Overturned
Ms. Peters, a former county clerk, received a nine-year sentence after being convicted of tampering with voting machines. An appeals court overturned the sentence but did not immediately free her from prison.
Samsung's new Frame Pro and OLED TVs are now available to order
Samsung's new 2026 versions of The Frame Pro and its OLED TVs feature glare-free displays and come in new size options.
NFL Draft will feature free performances by Wiz Khalifa, Bret Michaels and Kane Brown
The NFL Draft, besides being serious business for the 32 teams and hundreds of potential draftees, is shaping up to also be nothin’ but a black-and-yellow...
Wiz Khalifa, Kane Brown & Bret Michaels to Headline 2026 NFL Draft Entertainment Series in Pittsburgh: ‘The Energy Here Is Different’
The free, three-day event will go down April 23-25 alongside the NFL Draft.
USDA issues health alert for ready-to-eat chicken nuggets sold at Walmart due to possible lead contamination
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is urging the public to check their freezers for dinosaur-shaped, ready-to-eat chicken nuggets sold at Walmart that may be contaminated with unsafe levels of lead.
USDA issues health alert for ready-to-eat chicken nuggets sold at Walmart due to possible lead contamination
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is urging the public to check their freezers for dinosaur-shaped, ready-to-eat chicken nuggets sold at Walmart that may be contaminated with unsafe levels of lead.
Multiple Assassin's Creed Games Are Free To Play On Xbox This Week (April 2-6)
As part of Xbox Free Play Days
Your Samsung TV is getting a massive upgrade for free with Google Cast
Google Cast lands on Samsung TVs, and it’s not just for new models.
Detroit Pistons final record prediction over last six games
Free Press sports writer Omari Sankofa II breaks down whether the Detroit Pistons can reach 60 wins in the 2025-26 season.
Knoxville Smokies parking tips and shuttles for Covenant Health Park
Downtown parking for Knoxville Smokies games at Covenant Health Park includes free lots, prepaid garages (with a free shuttle) and street parking.
T-Mobile is about to test the limits of customer loyalty
The days of free lines with discounted devices at T-Mobile are over.
Faced with Trump's attacks on research, French scientists urge vigilance
On Thursday, March 26, the Stand Up for Science collective condemned the Trump administration's attacks on research and academic freedom. They also warned of the risks of these actions spreading to Europe and France.
Mahoning Valley arts and entertainment
Art ART ON PARK, 180 N. Park Ave., Warren: Collab on Park, 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, free. ARTS & EDUCATION AT THE HOYT, 124 E. Leasure Ave., New Castle, Pa.: “Greig Leach: Past in the Present Will Be the Future” and “Cheryl Capezzuti: Some of Us,” both through May 21. Hours are 11 a.m. […]
Mahoning Valley arts and entertainment
Art ART ON PARK, 180 N. Park Ave., Warren: Collab on Park, 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, free. ARTS & EDUCATION AT THE HOYT, 124 E. ...
Digital heart twins can guide a lifesaving procedure
The "digital twins" helped doctors spot good targets for heart ablation in 10 patients. Months later, all of them are free of sustained faulty rhythms.
Vermont Green FC vs Westchester SC US Open Cup live updates
Follow along for updates from Vermont Green FC's U.S. Open Cup second-round game vs Westchester SC at Virtue Field on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.
Hinesburg restaurant to close after more than 30 years in business
Travis and Maryam Counter expanded a year ago when they opened the Good Times Café and Matryoshka’s Bakery on Shelburne Road in South Burlington.
PlayStation Plus Confirms Free Game Line-Up For April
Some great games lined up for this month!
How to avoid getting faked out by counterfeitcar parts
Any part of a vehicle can be counterfeited, possibly proving dangerous to drivers and occupants.
MHSAA boys basketball: Free Press 2026 All-North teams
Here are the Free Press selections for the All-North metro teams for the 2025-26 MHSAA boys basketball season.
Hands-on weather science comes to Freeport seniors April 6 class
Senior Resource Center launches Science Spot with a hands-on weather class April 6 in Freeport. Seniors 60+ explore clouds, storms and more.
PlayStation Plus Free Games For April 2026 Revealed
Here's what PS Plus subscribers can look forward to in April.
‘Steel for fuel’ — but bill consumers for both
By Sarah Montalbano In 2018, Xcel Energy, an investor-owned utility serving millions of customers across eight states, was the first U.S. utility to pledge to deliver 100% carbon-free electricity by 2050. Eight years later, Xcel is pleading with Colorado regulators to let it continue running its coal plants until 2030. What happened to “steel […]
Arizona baseball drops midweek home game to West Virginia
It’s hard to defend free bases. Arizona pitchers struck out 16 batters and only allowed five hits on Tuesday night, but they also issued 10 walks and hit two batters in a 7-4 loss to West Virginia at Hi Corbett Field. “We gave them pretty much all seven runs,” UA coach Chip Hale said. “They […]
Dave & Buster's Entertainment (NASDAQ:PLAY) Posts Earnings Results, Misses Estimates By $1.54 EPS
Dave & Buster's Entertainment (NASDAQ:PLAY - Get Free Report) issued its earnings results on Tuesday. The restaurant operator reported ($1.15) EPS for the quarter, missing analysts' consensus estimates of $0.39 by ($1.54). Dave & Buster's Entertainment had a return on equity of 19.13% and a net margin of 0.01%.The firm's quarterly revenue was down .9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $0.69 earnings per share.
El Paso Science Festival set for April 18-19 at convention center, free for students
El Paso leaders are preparing to turn the Borderland into a hub for future innovators with a new event designed to spark students' interest in science and...
Health officials stress safety measures after Helena measles exposure at local hospital
With five measles cases recently identified, Lewis and Clark County health experts encouraged caution to prevent further transmission.
PS Plus April 2026 free PS5 games reveal date, time and leaked line-up
Fans are waiting to find out which game will join the likes of Lords of the Fallen in April.
Johnson Lecture in Science Communication to be held April 2
On Thursday, April 2, award-winning science journalist Maddie Sofia will present the spring 2026 A. Dixon and Betty F. Johnson Lectureship in Scientific Communication at 4 p.m. in Freeman Auditorium, HUB-Robeson Center.
Judge blocks Trump order to end funding for NPR, PBS
The judge says the First Amendment right to free speech "does not tolerate viewpoint discrimination and retaliation of this type"
'Starting a Business in Arkansas' workshop slated in Paragould - Talk Business & Politics
Anyone interested in starting a business in Arkansas is invited to attend a free, in-person workshop, “Starting a Business in Arkansas,” hosted by the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center...
Find free health services at April 10 resource fair
Head to the West Berkeley Family Wellness Center for a day of health resources, free groceries, and fun activities. Families and community members of all ages, connect with services and resources to support your wellbeing at our health fair. Join us at the West Berkeley Family Wellness Center on April 10. You can meet staff and learn about free programs that provide support with nutrition and breastfeeding, stress reduction, parenting resources, and more.Free giveaways at the event include fresh groceries, emergency preparedness supplies, and a planting kit.
Fitbit Public Preview adds food & water logging, more as app redesign comes to free users
Google is adding new features to the Fitbit personal health coach today as the Public Preview of the app redesign expands to free users.
Forget free lunch and nap pods: AI startups are luring workers with soaring salaries—some recent computer science grads are making over $300,000
As Gen Z frets over the future of work thanks to AI, tech startups are dishing out sky-high six-figure salaries to secure top talent.
Comedian Trevor Wallace to Perform at UW April 3
Comedian Trevor Wallace will perform at the University of Wyoming’s Arts and Sciences auditorium Friday, April 3, during an event free and open to students and the Laramie community.
Wargaming Console and PC Titles to Get In-Game Benefits with Xbox Game Pass
Five of Wargaming’s current and upcoming free-to-play titles will begin to offer in-game benefits to Xbox Game Pass subscribers this year - starting with World of Warships from April 9.
Science Everywhere Festival creates fun for all ages on UNCG Campus
Join us for the Science Everywhere Festival at UNCG on Saturday, April 11, 2026, from noon to 4 p.m. The event, which is free and open to all ages, features over 50 stations of interactive experiments, tours of science research labs, presentations by student and faculty scientists, a cardboard robot parade, food trucks, and more.
Blizzard Drops New Overwatch: Undivided WEBTOON With Major Story Lore Expansion
Blizzard has revealed Overwatch: Undivided, a new WEBTOON expanding the game’s story, with Episodes 1–3 available to read now for free.
Scientists Just Found a Hidden Critical Point in Water Right Before It Freezes
Thanks to X-ray lasers, we may finally understand why water is so weird.
From 'Five Nights at Freddy's 2' to 'Ann Lee,' 10 movies to stream now
Need a good movie? Watch these 10 at home now, including "Wicked: For Good" and a "Peaky Blinders" movie. All are free on your streaming services.
Vote now for the Free Press MHSAA girls basketball player of the year
Detroit Free Press readers can vote on the best player during the 2025-2026 MHSAA girls basketball season.
Mamdani’s bold housing pitch meets the brutal politics of property taxes
Larger rental buildings, including those that would be affected by Mamdani’s proposed rent freeze, face a higher tax burden than other homes.
HSA companies struck it big in Trump’s tax bill. They’re lobbying for more
The HSA industry is echoing MAHA as it pushes to expand the market for tax-free savings accounts.
Predicting spring bloom is an art
Do you ever wish you could predict the future? The National Park Service in Washington D.C. does it every year when they forecast when the Capitol’s cherry blossoms will reach peak bloom. People travel from all over the world to enjoy the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival and to glimpse these fragile flowers before they are gone. On this month’s Nature Quest, we learn the ins and outs of cherry tree blossoms, how scientists make that big prediction every year — and why all this focus on blooms can help scientists better understand climate change. This episode is part of Nature Quest, our monthly segment from listeners noticing a change in the world around them. To participate, send a voice memo to shortwave@npr.org with your name, location and your question about a change you're seeing in nature!Want to learn more about nature’s calendar? Check out our first Nature Quest episode on whether flowers are blooming early.Listen to every episode of Short Wave sponsor-free and support our work at NPR by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave.
The brutal politics of property tax reform
Alongside his plan to freeze rents on a million apartments, Mamdani said he would reform a lopsided property tax system that for decades has left rental landlords facing disproportionate financial pain.
This new “phonon laser” could measure gravity more precisely than ever before
Scientists have taken lasers beyond light and into the realm of sound, creating a breakthrough “phonon laser” that manipulates tiny vibrations at the quantum level. By dramatically reducing noise in these systems, researchers can now measure motion and forces with unprecedented precision. This advance could unlock new ways to study gravity, probe quantum physics, and even revolutionize navigation with ultra-accurate, satellite-free systems.
Oakland sports calendar: Roots, Falcons, Storm seasons kick off; the Ballers’ ‘Battle of the Bay’
Plus women’s NCAA watch parties, the Oakland Spiders’ ultimate frisbee season opener, and a free Oakland Skates hockey scrimmage at the Ice Center.
Exclusive: Unilever imposes global hiring freeze, citing Middle East war effects, memo says
Dove soap maker Unilever has implemented a global hiring freeze "at all levels" that will last at least three months, citing the effects of the widening conflict in the Middle East, according to a memo seen by Reuters.
Registration open for live webinars focused on employee health and well-being
Penn State Human Resources is offering free "Well-Being Week" webinars for University employees from April 6 to 10.
Mojave Desert venues are packed with live shows for the next two weeks
Mojave Desert venues roll out Latin pop, rock, boxing and free community events from late March through mid‑April.
"It's My Book!": Bronx Children Light Up as NYC Health + Hospitals/North Central Bronx Puts Free Books in Their Hands - NYC Health + Hospitals
When a child at NYC Health + Hospitals/North Central Bronx clutches a brand-new book for the first time and exclaims, "It's mine!" — that moment is
New Reality: While Politics of Immigration Have Changed, GOP’s Mass Deportation Obsession Has Not
Washington, DC — Last Friday, before Speaker of the House Mike Johnson and the House Freedom Caucus scuttled the Senate funding deal in order to continue the DHS shutdown, America’s Voice highlighted the reality that the mass deportation obsession remained paramount for President Trump and de facto President Stephen Miller. This despite recent GOP attempts… Continue »
Can the CDC respond to public health threats without a director?
NPR's Michel Martin speaks with former CDC official Demetre Daskalakis about the absence of a CDC director and the government's ability to respond to public health threats.Support NPR and hear every episode of Trump's Terms sponsor-free with NPR+. Sign up at plus.npr.org.
[*LIVE*] Tennessee vs Michigan Live Free Streams On Sport'sTvｌ 30 March 2026
Tennessee vs Michigan in a highly anticipated clash of the 2026.These rule changes are seen as part of Live NCAAM ( Men's Collage BasketBall) ongoing efforts to evolve the game and maintain competitive integrity across formats.Pluto TV and All Men's Sports Network Forge Global Partnership to Launch a New FAST Channel and Media.
Vote for Week 1 Delaware HS Athlete of the Week, presented by Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists
Voting is free on Delaware Online. The winner will be announced on April 3.
Science, Music, and Stream Bugs: Sierra Streams Celebrates 30 Years at Pioneer Park on May 16
NEVADA CITY, CA — Sierra Streams Institute will celebrate its 30th anniversary with a free community event on Saturday, May 16 from 1:00 to 5:00 PM at Pioneer Park in Nevada City, bringing together art, music, and hands-on science to highlight three decades of watershed research, restoration, and education across the Sierra Nevada. The Sierra […]
Inspired Entertainment: Free Optionality In Strata
Inspired Entertainment's digital iGaming drives margin growth, leverage falls, and STRATA adds upside. Find out why INSE stock is a strong buy.
Library hosting Writers Roadshow
The Northwestern Regional Library is pleased to announce our upcoming Writers Road show April 21-25 at our libraries and in our communities. These events are free and open to the
Princeton’s Science Outreach enters a new phase under the Program in Teacher Preparation
Princeton’s Science Outreach initiative recently began a new chapter after transitioning to the Program in Teacher Preparation (Teacher Prep), part of the Office of the Dean of the College. The move represents a strategic collaboration designed to enhance STEM education for K-12 students, support educators and strengthen the impact of both programs
Vext Science Announces Strategic Optimization of Arizona Operations and Plans for Ohio Cultivation Expansion
Strategic closure and planned sale of Eloy cultivation facility expected to improve Arizona profitability and enhance free cash flow.Proceeds from the sale to facilitate debt reduction, with key equipment redeployed to the Ohio market, saving approximately $2 million in capital expenditures to support Vext's build-out in the State. Plans to seek approval to expand Jackson cultivation to support a growing retail footprint as Ohio adult-use sales surpass $1 billion in the first full year1.Vext to.
Krafton shutters free-to-play PUBG spin-off after two months, in line with policy of using Early Access to "quickly validate a game’s potential"
Company abandons top-down shooter after two months of declining player counts, despite franchise delivering record revenues
The Villainization of Business: Corporate Tyrants and Government Sycophants
Across political eras, corporations have been recast as either predatory villains or tools of the state—distorting their proper role in a free economy.
Airport travel chaos continues as DHS funding freeze becomes longest partial shutdown in history
Trump has ordered pay be restored to TSA employees but it is unclear where money will come from and whether he has such legal powers
BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on the NinjaFit Playground by Neighborhood Ninjas—coming to Lee this summer
Providing a “fun, free, safe and accessible space where community members of all ages can connect and engage in free, obstacle-based fitness and active lifestyles together.”
Howie Roseman reveals new Eagles free agent signing
Philadelphia is adding another edge rusher.
She started a sparkling tea business with her husband; alcohol-free
Natalie Chiu and her husband are both scientists and embrace different ways of thinking. Knowing each other's strengths and weaknesses helped them grow the business.
Navigating the social media minefield
Scientists and researchers seeking to announce promising findings, exchange ideas or contribute to policy discussions outside of academic circles may find social media an expedient tool.But increasingly, scientists and other professionals are discovering that online platforms can be a double-edged sword: while sharing their work and expertise is crucial for visibility and meeting funder expectations, it also exposes them to baseless criticism and even accusations of spreading false information."It is getting harder and harder for scientists, and researchers in general, to convey their findings without facing attacks on their legitimacy and accuracy of their research," says Valère Ndior, a professor of public law at the University of Western Brittany in Brest, France, who has spent more than a decade studying misinformation on social media. Researchers attempting to challenge deceptive online information may themselves be accused of political bias or not being objective in their research, he explains, adding that some scientists disengage because they feel overwhelmed and unable to sustain meaningful dialogue. "It is quite sad to see in some instances that researchers end up leaving social media altogether because they feel like the pressure is getting too intense or feel threatened," he says.Ndior, a past president of the Francophone Network of International Law, is also involved in European efforts to make science and research findings more accessible to the public. As an ambassador for the Science Comes to Town (SCTT) project, he has participated in recent discussions on public perceptions of science and online misinformation. The European Commission-funded initiative connects Brest and two other cities — Kiel in Germany and Split in Croatia — and aims to strengthen ties between communities, universities and research institutions to promote science awareness and cooperation across Europe.Coordinated campaigns around contentious topicsNdior draws a clear distinction between critical thinking and thoughtless criticism. Yet he sees online discussions being increasingly shaped by suspicious behaviour and coordinated information campaigns — including "raids" aimed at dominating discussions and "astroturfing," where small groups act as larger movements to sway debates. Tracking these patterns has become harder because some platforms have restricted data or charge for it, despite provisions of the European Union's Digital Securities Act aimed at ensuring researchers can have access to such data. According to Ndior, "platforms became more reluctant from the moment access to data became a legal requirement rather than a voluntary initiative."Unfounded claims and scepticism about science existed long before Internet chat groups. But the noticeable rise in online hostility has intensified around contentious topics, such as the coronavirus pandemic and climate change, alongside the weakening of gatekeepers to moderate content.For Ndior, dubious claims about pandemic countermeasures and vaccine safety highlighted the struggle between "balancing freedom of expression and the protection of public health and order." Efforts to remove social media content deemed false or risky for public health triggered accusations of censorship and the silencing of legitimate discussion, and in some cases, legal challenges.Concerns about attacks on the credibility of scientists and researchers have generated a flurry of academic papers in recent years and prompted professional communities to address ways to counter online attacks. Such unease extends to the generation that has grown up with digital media. Ndior points out that his students, some of whom research artificial intelligence regulation, hate speech, online surveillance and other controversial topics, hesitate to share their work or viewpoints online. "Many of them don't want to expose themselves too much because they don't feel ready to be faced with the backlash of other people criticising their research," he explains.Safer harbours for engagementLegal challenges against false or defamatory posts are not necessarily a solution — especially given the trans-jurisdictional nature of the Internet. Lawsuits also take time and money, and if they fail, can be counterproductive. Instead, Ndior advises scientists and researchers to be selective in how and where they communicate. Professional online platforms and moderated discussion spaces offer a better environment for engagement. He also highlights the value of more traditional formats, such as radio interviews and in-person discussions at schools, libraries and science fairs, which encourage dialogue with the public. "Personal contact makes a big difference," he says, while acknowledging that these approaches lack the global reach of social media.Ndior’s interest in digital law and online misinformation stems from his time as a doctoral student in international law in the early days of social media. He began analysing posts from governments and heads of state to determine if they could be considered official and thus used as evidence in litigation. His work attracted media attention and led to conference and speaking invitations. "This was not part of my plan," he says, "but this is what happens as a researcher — your interest is sparked by a certain event or phenomenon, and it suddenly becomes your focus."Ndior believes SCTT provides "a double benefit" for researchers, enabling them to connect with peers and interact with the public. "There is a wide community of people who are not in academia who are critical thinkers looking for opportunities to ask questions, to get information and contribute their ideas,” he says. "I really value that kind of feedback."Science|Business, which connects policymakers, academics and industry through its news reporting, analysis and events, is an SCTT partner.
Navigating the social media minefield
Scientists and researchers seeking to announce promising findings, exchange ideas or contribute to policy discussions outside of academic circles may find social media an expedient tool.But increasingly, scientists and other professionals are discovering that online platforms can be a double-edged sword: while sharing their work and expertise is crucial for visibility and meeting funder expectations, it also exposes them to baseless criticism and even accusations of spreading false information."It is getting harder and harder for scientists, and researchers in general, to convey their findings without facing attacks on their legitimacy and accuracy of their research," says Valère Ndior, a professor of public law at the University of Western Brittany in Brest, France, who has spent more than a decade studying misinformation on social media. Researchers attempting to challenge deceptive online information may themselves be accused of political bias or not being objective in their research, he explains, adding that some scientists disengage because they feel overwhelmed and unable to sustain meaningful dialogue. "It is quite sad to see in some instances that researchers end up leaving social media altogether because they feel like the pressure is getting too intense or feel threatened," he says.Ndior, a past president of the Francophone Network of International Law, is also involved in European efforts to make science and research findings more accessible to the public. As an ambassador for the Science Comes to Town (SCTT) project, he has participated in recent discussions on public perceptions of science and online misinformation. The European Commission-funded initiative connects Brest and two other cities — Kiel in Germany and Split in Croatia — and aims to strengthen ties between communities, universities and research institutions to promote science awareness and cooperation across Europe.Coordinated campaigns around contentious topicsNdior draws a clear distinction between critical thinking and thoughtless criticism. Yet he sees online discussions being increasingly shaped by suspicious behaviour and coordinated information campaigns — including "raids" aimed at dominating discussions and "astroturfing," where small groups act as larger movements to sway debates. Tracking these patterns has become harder because some platforms have restricted data or charge for it, despite provisions of the European Union's Digital Securities Act aimed at ensuring researchers can have access to such data. According to Ndior, "platforms became more reluctant from the moment access to data became a legal requirement rather than a voluntary initiative."Unfounded claims and scepticism about science existed long before Internet chat groups. But the noticeable rise in online hostility has intensified around contentious topics, such as the coronavirus pandemic and climate change, alongside the weakening of gatekeepers to moderate content.For Ndior, dubious claims about pandemic countermeasures and vaccine safety highlighted the struggle between "balancing freedom of expression and the protection of public health and order." Efforts to remove social media content deemed false or risky for public health triggered accusations of censorship and the silencing of legitimate discussion, and in some cases, legal challenges.Concerns about attacks on the credibility of scientists and researchers have generated a flurry of academic papers in recent years and prompted professional communities to address ways to counter online attacks. Such unease extends to the generation that has grown up with digital media. Ndior points out that his students, some of whom research artificial intelligence regulation, hate speech, online surveillance and other controversial topics, hesitate to share their work or viewpoints online. "Many of them don't want to expose themselves too much because they don't feel ready to be faced with the backlash of other people criticising their research," he explains.Safer harbours for engagementLegal challenges against false or defamatory posts are not necessarily a solution — especially given the trans-jurisdictional nature of the Internet. Lawsuits also take time and money, and if they fail, can be counterproductive. Instead, Ndior advises scientists and researchers to be selective in how and where they communicate. Professional online platforms and moderated discussion spaces offer a better environment for engagement. He also highlights the value of more traditional formats, such as radio interviews and in-person discussions at schools, libraries and science fairs, which encourage dialogue with the public. "Personal contact makes a big difference," he says, while acknowledging that these approaches lack the global reach of social media.Ndior’s interest in digital law and online misinformation stems from his time as a doctoral student in international law in the early days of social media. He began analysing posts from governments and heads of state to determine if they could be considered official and thus used as evidence in litigation. His work attracted media attention and led to conference and speaking invitations. "This was not part of my plan," he says, "but this is what happens as a researcher — your interest is sparked by a certain event or phenomenon, and it suddenly becomes your focus."Ndior believes SCTT provides "a double benefit" for researchers, enabling them to connect with peers and interact with the public. "There is a wide community of people who are not in academia who are critical thinkers looking for opportunities to ask questions, to get information and contribute their ideas,” he says. "I really value that kind of feedback."Science|Business, which connects policymakers, academics and industry through its news reporting, analysis and events, is an SCTT partner.
The Elder Scrolls: Blades Mobile Game Will Shut Down On June 30
The free-to-play RPG follows last year's shutdown of The Elder Scrolls: Legends
Peregrine Road to perform at Jesup April 9
The Jesup Memorial Library in Bar Harbor will host a free Music and Conversation program with the band Peregrine Road on Thursday, April 9, at 5:30 p.m.
Bethesda is shutting down The Elder Scrolls: Blades on June 30
Players will get a last hurrah on the mobile dungeon crawler since Bethesda has made everything in the store free until the shutdown.
Two Olympic Channel films nominated for Sports Emmy Awards 2026 - Watch now for free
Champions of the Golden Valley and Chuskit & Saldon: Frozen Dreams of Ladakh were both shortlisted for the 47th edition of the annual awards, with the winners announced in May.