Sophia Lewis, Author at Hounia

Hackers leak 13,000 user photos and IDs from the Tea app, designed as a women's safe space

24

Jul

Science and Technology

Hackers target Tea app women’s safe space, leaking 13,000 user photos and IDs

A major security breach has affected Tea, an app created to offer a safe and supportive space for women, as hackers leaked personal data from more than 13,000 users. The compromised information includes sensitive materials such as selfies, photos of government-issued IDs, and user-submitted reports that were part of the app’s internal verification and complaint processes.The incident has prompted significant worries about user safety and the confidentiality of information, especially since Tea promotes itself as a platform designed to safeguard women, particularly those who report harassment or abuse. A large number of users signed up for the app with the…

Auction sales fall 6% in the first half, raising fears of an art market shift

24

Jul

By Sophia Lewis

Investments and Business

Art auction revenues fall 6% in H1, fueling market shift worries

Auction revenues declined by around 6% in the first half of the year compared with the same period last year, prompting fresh concerns about the global art market's strength. This occurs amid broader weakening in fine‑art sales, signaling a shift in collector behavior and challenging prevailing business models.Although leading institutions such as Sotheby’s, Christie’s, and Phillips maintained their dominance, their total sum decreased to slightly below $4 billion in the first half of 2025. The central aspect of their operations, fine-art auctions, declined by around 10%. This indicates a market that is either stabilizing at a reduced level or potentially…

Thailand and Cambodia agree to 'immediate ceasefire'

24

Jul

By Sophia Lewis

Social Responsibility

Immediate ceasefire pact signed by Thailand and Cambodia

In a significant move toward easing tensions, Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to bring an immediate stop to recent hostilities that have erupted along their shared border. This development follows a series of confrontations that escalated over several days, resulting in casualties, displacements, and widespread concern in both countries and the broader region.The decision to cease fire was reached after urgent discussions between officials from both nations, who recognized the need to prevent further violence and restore calm to affected communities. The agreement marks a crucial step in de-escalating a conflict that had threatened to spiral into prolonged military engagement.Over…

Crypto kidnapping: How armed gangs are hunting the internet's high rollers

24

Jul

By Sophia Lewis

Investments and Business

Crypto kidnapping: How organized crime is targeting crypto high rollers

In the current digital landscape, cryptocurrencies have produced a novel group of wealthy individuals. However, this form of digital fortune has drawn a perilous type of attention — not from cybercriminals, but from armed offenders. These perpetrators are now focusing on people known for possessing substantial crypto holdings, resulting in a concerning increase in incidents referred to as “crypto kidnappings.”A new kind of targetUnlike conventional bank accounts, cryptocurrency wallets may often be accessed from various devices, and frequently don't have the same protective measures as financial institutions. For criminals, this creates a unique chance. They simply require physical access to…

Six things that may cost Americans more after Trump's tariffs

24

Jul

By Sophia Lewis

Social Responsibility

Six things that could become pricier for Americans after Trump’s tariffs

Recent tariff announcements are likely to impact the cost of several everyday goods in the United States, potentially placing greater financial pressure on households. As new trade policies take shape, their effects are beginning to ripple through various sectors, from household appliances to the automotive industry. Though these measures aim to bolster domestic production, they may come with a price tag for American consumers.One of the key changes stems from the reimplementation or increase of tariffs on goods imported from certain countries, particularly China. These tariffs are designed to protect U.S. industries by making imported goods more expensive, thereby encouraging…

24

Jul

By Sophia Lewis

Investments and Business

Graphic: Follow grocery price changes

Over the past few years, grocery shopping has transformed from a routine errand into a financial balancing act for many households. Price changes across food categories have caused consumers to shift their buying habits, rethink priorities, and search for affordable alternatives. While prices often fluctuate due to predictable factors like seasons or supply chain costs, recent global events, economic pressures, and shifting demand have significantly disrupted this once-stable routine. Understanding grocery price trends not only helps with personal budgeting, but also reveals larger patterns in food systems and economic health.A shift in consumer behaviorInflation has significantly influenced consumer behavior regarding…