Reports that Elon Musks Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is seeking access to a guarded Internal Revenue Service (IRS) system has raised alarm bells in Washington and across the nation. Lawmakers and taxpayers say theyre worried about the potential privacy implications of a department run by the worlds richest man having access to extremely sensitive personal and financial information.While no IRS access has yet been granted or even officially requested, DOGE is already looking into the recesses of several government divisions and expected to broadly widen its scope in the coming weeks. And now a DOGE team member is reportedly close to gaining access to taxpayer data. The Washington Post reports that the IRS is under pressure from the White House to give DOGE officials access to its systems and databases, including one that would allow them to access IRS accounts and bank information.This comes in the midst of the 2025 tax season, when Americans are in the process of filing their taxes and awaiting refunds. Why is DOGE looking at the IRS?The official primary reason being given, per a memorandum obtained by the Post, is for modernization of IRS systems and engineering assistance. The DOGE software engineer who will be working there is reportedly set to spend 120 days at the tax service. One idea the department has floated in the past was launching a mobile app letting people file their taxes.Few, if any, are disputing that the IRS systems are in need of an overhaul. Many were built in the 1960s. Its the access to Integrated Data Retrieval System (IDRS) thats especially unusual. (Even security clearance does not give individuals access to it.)Will Elon Musk and his team have access to my tax records?Musk, personally, wont have access, assuming integration follows the outline in the memorandum. Instead, a single DOGE staffer, software engineer Gavin Kliger, will reportedly work at the IRS and have access to IDRS, which reports say could give him and the Musk-run department access to social security numbers, bank information, and more.What safeguards are being put into place to protect my privacy?Kliger would be required to maintain the confidentiality of the tax return information he sees and is required to destroy it when he has finished his work at the IRS. Hes also required to not share any of that information with people who do not have access to IDRS.Not everyone follows that agreement, of course. An IRS contractor named Charles Littlejohn is currently serving a five-year felony sentence for leaking the tax information of Trump, Musk, and others in 2021.Could DOGE seeking access to the IRS system affect how long it takes to get my refund?Thats uncertain. While the IRS has not extended its estimated timeline for refunds (which stands at up to 21 days for e-filed returns and 4 weeks or more for returns sent by mail), any changes to the IRS in the middle of tax season could cause a disruption.DOGEs plan to update systems isnt the only potentially disrupting action the Trump administration has taken with the IRS. Thousands of probationary workers (recent hires or someone who has moved or been promoted into a new position) are expected to be laid off, and its unclear if that will slow down the processing of returns. (IRS workers were not given the option to accept a recent buyout offer extended to federal workers.)At least one Democratic Senator is warning refund delays could happen, though.NEW: My office is hearing that DOGE is now at the IRS. That means Musk's henchmen are in a position to dig through a trove of data about every taxpayer in America. And if your refund is delayed, they could very well be the reason. Ron Wyden (@RonWyden) February 13, 2025 Does this impact my chances of getting audited?This, too, is unclear. The Biden Administration invested heavily in the IRS, with plans to hire tens of thousands of IRS workers to help with both customer service and enforcement. That investment came with the caveat that the funding, from the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, would not be used to increase audits of people making $400,000 or less per year. The IRS has made limited progress with complying with that, however.Its unclear if a reduction at the IRS could squeeze resources at the tax agency and reduce its ability to audit corporations and individuals.Is it legal for DOGE to look through IRS records?The courts will have to ultimately decide that. Rep. Jimmy Gomez (D-Calif.), a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, says DOGEs actions are illegal and a blatant power grab. And Attorneys General from 14 states, on Thursday, filed a lawsuit in federal court to challenge DOGEs plans, saying Musk and the Departments actions can only be taken by someone who has been approved by the Senate.

Grand Central Station is one of those places that feels alive even when its standing still. Ive never even been to it but it feels like I know it intimately because of how relevant its been made through pop culture and films like The Avengers, Madagascar, I Am Legend, etc. its a monument to movement, a crossroads of countless stories, and a masterclass in Beaux-Arts architecture. If youve ever stood beneath its celestial ceiling, watching the golden clock gleam in the main concourse, you know the magic it holds. Now, that same energy has been captured brick by brick in a fan-made LEGO Ideas submission that deserves a spot in every train enthusiasts collection.Designed by LEGO builder Mind the Brick, this Grand Central Station project is a love letter to classic rail travel. Its built on a 4840 baseplate, packing in rich architectural details and a lively cast of minifigures. The creators goal is clear: train sets are plentiful, but detailed stations are rare. This build bridges that gap, giving LEGO cityscapes a proper terminal filled with history, character, and the bustle of daily commuters.Designer: Mind The BrickRight away, the design commands attention with its early 20th-century aesthetic. The grand facade echoes the elegance of real-world train stations from New York to Prague, blending European and American influences. Massive arching windows let the imaginary sunlight pour into the main hall, while intricate stonework and decorative elements make it feel like a true historic landmark. Even at minifigure scale, the attention to detail is staggering.The real charm lies in the intricacies of the design. The modular design allows for easy access, revealing a fully realized interior brimming with activity. The main hall serves as a waiting area, complete with LEGO-made exhibits of classic steam locomotives. A ticket booth stands ready to serve hurried travelers, while a baggage check and mailroom keep things running behind the scenes. Even the Train Masters office has been included, offering a glimpse into the inner workings of station operations. Its a build that captures not just the physical space of a train station but the daily rhythms and routines that bring it to life.To make the MOC (My Own Creation) engaging, Mind The Brick devised a set of backstories for all the minifigures in the scene. Theres Robert, the overworked Train Master, fueled by endless cups of coffee from his secretary, Clara. Joe, the ticket seller, manages the office solo while his colleague enjoys a much-needed vacation. Meanwhile, Sue rushes to catch her train to Prague, debating whether she has time to grab a croissant from Berny, the street vendor outside. These characters transform the station from a static model into a dynamic world filled with humor, stress, and the small everyday dramas that play out in places like these.Then theres Hercules, the private detective, setting off for London to crack a case involving a stolen dog and an aristocratic scandal. Diana and her baby daughter are en route to Paris, reuniting with a husband who works as a chef in a famous restaurant. Even Old John, the janitor, has his hands full keeping the station spotless, while his niece Georgia, a mechanic, tends to the safety barriers on the platform. Among the chaos, Sam the station cat watches the world go by, perfectly content in his usual spot.This level of storytelling is rare in a LEGO Ideas set. Every corner of the build hints at a story, every minifigure has a role to play. Its the kind of set that invites you to invent new adventures, whether its a missed train, a surprise encounter, or a secret mission unfolding in the stations hidden corners. Add a few animals to the scene and recreate the famous encounter in the animated movie Madagascar!With 10,000 supporters already backing it, Grand Central Station has struck a chord with fans of LEGO trains and classic architecture alike. It fills a much-needed gap in the LEGO landscape, providing a detailed, immersive station to complement existing railway sets. The creators, both passionate LEGO train enthusiasts, have poured their love for locomotives into every brick, hoping to see this vision become an official set.The post This LEGO Grand Central Station Set is the Ultimate Tribute to NYCs Iconic Landmark first appeared on Yanko Design.

King Living has reimagined the living room with a recliner that merges cinematic immersion with engineered comfort. This modular seating system transforms everyday spaces into personal theaters while prioritizing long-term support and clean design. Every detail is chosen with care so that the recliner not only looks refined but also supports modern living.Designer: King LivingArchitectural Design and Adaptability: Fluidity Meets PrecisionKing Living has taken a measured approach to design with the King Cinema Premiere Recliner, blending clean, sculpted curves with a solid, durable frame. Inspired by the precise lines of automotive seating and modern architecture, the recliner features a smooth, flowing silhouette that appears light while offering everyday strength and stability.A key element is the contoured backrest, which follows the natural curvature of the spine. This design choice helps distribute body weight evenly across optimized pressure zones, reducing localized fatigue during long viewing sessions or extended periods of relaxation. The result is a seating experience that offers both comfort and practical support.The systems modular nature is built to accommodate different living spaces. Offered in configurations ranging from a single armchair to two-, 2.5-, and three-seater arrangements, the recliner can be reconfigured without the need for tools. This flexibility means the seating layout can be easily adjusted to suit intimate movie nights or larger social gatherings, adapting smoothly to changing room sizes and lifestyle needs.Technical details further underline the designs thoughtful nature. A cantilevered base contributes to the pieces overall visual lightness while ensuring solid stability. The steel framework, reinforced with flexible joint connectors, permits subtle adjustments to the seating angles. These features work together to facilitate smooth transitions between compact and expansive setups, enhancing the overall ergonomic performance.Every detail in the King Cinema Premiere Recliner illustrates a balanced union of form and function. The flowing silhouette, ergonomic backrest, and adaptable modular system combine to create furniture that fits seamlessly into modern interiors while evolving with them. In essence, the design embodies a philosophy where fluidity meets precision, offering a practical and refined solution for todays dynamic home environments.Ergonomic Engineering: Dynamic Support SystemsCentral to the design is a suspension system combining responsive pocket springs with high-resilience foam. This multilayer construction dynamically redistributes body weight during movement, maintaining lumbar alignment whether users are upright, reclined, or in zero-gravity positions. The systems adaptive firmness prevents the hammocking effect common in traditional recliners.Adjustment mechanisms allow millimeter-precise positioning of headrests, footrests, and lumbar supports via a capacitive touch panel. Users can program and recall preset positions, with haptic feedback confirming each adjustment. This micro-customization proves valuable for multi-user households, allowing adaptation to individual body types.Material Innovation and Tactile ExcellenceThe foundation is a cold-rolled steel frame with a tensile strength of 550 MPa, supporting up to 300 kg and backed by a 25-year warranty. Upholstery options include stain-resistant performance fabrics and full-grain European leathers, both with removable, machine-washable covers. Leather variants develop a natural patina over time, while metallic accents on structural elements add subtle industrial contrast. Color palettes balance contemporary neutrals (charcoal, oatmeal) with bold accents like merlot red, catering to diverse interior styles.Integrated Smart Technologies for a Clutter-Free SpaceA motorized gas-lift media console ascends from the base, organizing streaming devices and cables while shielding them from electromagnetic interference. Integrated Smart Pockets in the armrests store remotes and devices, with inductive charging pads for cord-free power.For audio integration, magnetic speaker brackets allow surround-sound mounting at ear level. An optional lithium-ion battery provides 18 hours of cordless operation, ideal for open-concept spaces.Final ThoughtsInfrared sensors in the footrest halt motion if obstructions are detected, while anti-pinch sleeves prevent accidents. The steel frame contains 30% recycled content, and foam cushions use soy-based polyols to reduce petroleum reliance. Local manufacturing in Australia minimizes carbon footprint, and the 25-year warranty promotes longevity over replacement.As streaming platforms dominate entertainment, the recliner positions itself as a nucleus for integrated home theaters. Founder David King emphasizes its dual role: King Cinema allows customers to craft a personal cinema experience without leaving their living rooma space that blends entertainment with restorative comfort.The King Cinema Premiere Recliner transcends conventional furniture, offering a dynamic platform that adapts to evolving lifestyles. Its synthesis of ergonomic engineering, durable materials, and smart technology sets a benchmark for residential designwhere luxury is defined by thoughtful innovation rather than opulence. For those seeking to transform living spaces into tech-savvy sanctuaries, this recliner redefines what home comfort can achieve.The post The King Cinema Premiere Recliner: Engineering Home Cinema with Ergonomic Innovation first appeared on Yanko Design.

It's come a week early, but a $200 discount is a a $200 discount!

Elon Musk claims to have found rampant fraud in the Social Security Administration. There's a much simpler explanation.

MacworldAt a glanceExpert's RatingProsLarge storage volumeGood compartmentalizationRobust eco-materialConsCarrying system overloaded with heavy loadsNo bright colorsOur Verdict If youre looking for a large notebook backpack at a favorable price, youll find it with the Got Bag Pro Pack. It has good compartmentalization and a neat carrying system.Price When ReviewedThis value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefinedBest Pricing TodayPrice When Reviewed149 EuroBest Prices Today: Got Bag Pro PackRetailerPrice0.01View Deal149,00 View Deal149,00 View Deal149,00 View Deal149,00 View Deal149,00 View DealPrice comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwideView more pricesProductPricePrice comparison from BackmarketGot Bag specializes in recycling plastic from the sea and using it primarily for its nylon yarn. In addition, the inner material of its bags, such as the Pro Pack, is made from recycled polyester and the zips are made from recycled nylon. This is supported by the Clean-Up program in Indonesia, which collects Ocean Impact Plastic from the sea and coastal areas in order to actively contribute to the reduction of plastic pollution.The design of the Pro Pack follows the maxim: square, practical, good. With a volume of 25 liters and compact dimensions of 18.5 by 12.2 by 6.3 inches (47 by 31 by 16 centimeters), it complies with IATA guidelines and is therefore perfect as hand luggage for air travel.The storage space is easily accessible from the top via a large lid. Inside there is a compartment for a 16-inch laptop, an iPad compartment, a small zip compartment for cables, and a separate compartment for an umbrella or a slim drinking bottle. There is also a compartment in the lid itself for small items such as tissues. Two loops for pens and a key ring round off the well-thought-out interior.The laptop compartment can be accessed from the outside and inside. A large front compartment the size of a magazine and a hidden pocket for a wallet on the back keep things organized. There are also two elasticated side pockets for water bottles and a strap for the telescopic handle of a trolley.The padded shoulder straps and chest strap are individually adjustable, while the padded back panel provides noticeable relief for the back.As a certified B-Corporation, the company belongs to a community that adheres to the highest social and ecological standards. In addition, the products have been awarded the PETA-Approved Vegan seal, which emphasizes their animal-friendliness. The Pro Pack is available in six different color combinations.Should you buy the Got Bag Pro Pack?For me, the Pro Pack is the secret star in the Got Bag lineup. Large storage volume, good handling, and a favorable price speak well of the backpack. However, the Pro Pack has a fixed and not a variable volume. Nevertheless, the volume is easier to load, especially when shopping. If the 25-liter volume is not enough for you, there is a 35-liter version in the Pro Pack Travel.

Amazon's Presidents Day MacBook Air sale discounts the ultraportable laptops to as low as $749, with Best Buy offering flash deals today only as well.Grab a MacBook Air for $749 today only.Amazon is offering shoppers a bonus $50 discount on top of a $200 instant rebate on Apple's standard M2 MacBook Air 13-inch with 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, bringing the price down to $749 for Presidents Day.Buy for $749 Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

A lot of damage can be done with a person's phone number, from endless spam calls to fraud and scams. Surfshark Alternative Number can protect you.Alternative ID can protect you from scammers - Image credit: SurfsharkPhone numbers may not seem like a potential attack vector since users can just hang up on spam, but it's not as simple as that. Companies have begun relying on phone numbers to verify identity, send temporary passwords, and other aspects of account security that scammers seek to exploit.If you're using your personal phone number on online accounts, it can be trivial for bad actors to exploit it and gain access to that account. Whether they use SIM swapping, phishing, or other techniques, access to a phone number can lead to data loss, bank account hacks, and identity theft. Continue Reading on AppleInsider

Among the many first-party Xbox titles that have disappeared for long periods, Rares Everwild is one of the more infamous. Announced in 2019, it saw some high-level departures and alleged reboots in development before emerging with some new artwork to close out 2024. Reports claimed its development is finally going well but what does Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer say?Speaking to XboxEra about his favorite game that hes looking forward to, Spencer said, When told how long its been, he added, It has been. And weve been able to give those teams time in what theyre doing, which is good, and still have a portfolio like we have.Its like a dream that Matt (Booty) and I have had for a long time, so its finally good to be there. We can give those teams time.Spencer didnt say anything about a potential release window or a re-reveal, but theres hope that the new artwork could be teasing something for this year. Xboxs momentum has been pretty solid lately, between a packed 2025 calendar (including the recently released Avowed) and multiple titles coming to other platforms.The latest is Senuas Saga: Hellblade 2 reportedly coming to PS5 soon. Bethesdas Starfield may also make the jump based on other rumors. Stay tuned for potential announcements in the coming weeks.

After rumors about it last week, Ubisoft officially confirmed Rainbow Six Siege X, with a showcase set for March 13th, 5 PM GMT. On the official website, the development team promises the biggest transformation in the games history. Though details are vague, there will be new ways to play, deepened tactical gameplay, refined game feel and major upgrades all around. The showcase will feature content creators, development team members and players to showcase all the evolutions alongside many more surprises.According to Frax, who first leaked the sequels existence, Siege X will allegedly feature an engine overhaul and updates to the modes and textures. Its apparently launching sometime in the future, likely after Year 10, Season 1, so a shadow drop is unlikely. Never say never, though.Stay tuned for more details and updates next month. Rainbow Six Siege is available for Xbox One, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC. It launched in December 2015 and has seen numerous updates, new Operators, and overhauls ever since. The registered player count crossed 80 million in 2022 the same year the underwhelming spin-off, Rainbow Six Extraction, launched. Check out our review for the latter.