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West Midlands police responded to viral videos claiming they were investigating a girl for viewing a social media post. They clarified the footage was misleading, and the investigation concerns a fake account sending indecent messages. No charges have been made, and the investigation continues.
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Recent stories highlight shifting wedding customs, from DIY elopements in Colorado to digital gift-giving at UK weddings. These trends reflect a move toward personalization, cost-consciousness, and innovative ways to celebrate love amid rising wedding costs and changing social norms.
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On September 21, 2025, the US implemented a $100,000 one-time fee on new H-1B visa applications, sparking confusion and travel advisories among tech firms and visa holders. The fee applies only to new petitions, not renewals or current holders. The policy has caused anxiety among Chinese and Indian workers, disrupted personal plans, and prompted some to consider relocating to Europe.
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Dubai-style chocolate bars, known for their thick texture and exotic fillings like pistachio and tahini, have surged in global popularity since 2021. Major retailers and restaurants worldwide now offer variations, fueling demand and causing a pistachio shortage. The trend reflects a growing appetite for indulgent, textured confections blending luxury and novelty as of late October 2025.
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Australia plans to enforce a ban on social media accounts for users under 16 starting December 10, aiming to protect children from online harms. The government is reviewing mechanisms used in other countries, including Malaysia, to implement age restrictions and ensure platform compliance.
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Malaysia's government is reviewing measures to restrict social media access for under-16s, inspired by Australia's upcoming ban at age 16. The move aims to protect youths from online harms like cyberbullying and scams, with plans to implement electronic age verification methods next year.
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Children in Gaza are suffering severe psychological and developmental impacts due to ongoing conflict and infrastructure destruction. Thousands with autism face regressions, while many children require urgent mental health support amid restricted aid and continued violence. UN and local efforts aim to address these crises.
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On December 10, 2025, Australia enforced a pioneering law banning users under 16 from major social media platforms including TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. Platforms must block new and existing underage accounts or face fines up to A$49.5 million. The law aims to protect youth mental health amid concerns over cyberbullying and addictive design, though it faces legal challenges and practical enforcement issues.
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The European Parliament has approved a non-binding resolution calling for an EU-wide ban on social media access for children under 16, with stricter limits for those under 13. The move aims to address concerns over mental health and addictive design features, amid ongoing debates and Australia's upcoming social media ban for under-16s.
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On December 10, 2025, US Customs and Border Protection proposed mandatory collection of five years of social media data, phone numbers, emails, and biometric information from travelers under the Visa Waiver Program. This expands existing social media screening to visa-exempt visitors from 42 countries, including the UK, France, Australia, Japan, and Israel, aiming to enhance national security ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Public comments are open for 60 days.