Feb 26, 2025Ravie LakshmananMalware / CryptocurrencyCybersecurity researchers have flagged a malicious Python library on the Python Package Index (PyPI) repository that facilitates unauthorized music downloads from music streaming service Deezer.The package in question is automslc, which has been downloaded over 104,000 times to date. First published in May 2019, it remains available on PyPI as of writing."Although automslc, which has been downloaded over 100,000 times, purports to offer music automation and metadata retrieval, it covertly bypasses Deezer's access restrictions by embedding hardcoded credentials and communicating with an external command-and-control (C2) server," Socket security researcher Kirill Boychenko said in a report published today.Specifically, the package is designed to log into the French music streaming platform via user-supplied and hard-coded credentials, gather track-related metadata, and download full audio files in violation of Deezer's API terms.The package also periodically communicates with a remote server located at "54.39.49[.]17:8031" to provide updates on the download status, thereby giving the threat actor centralized control over the coordinated music piracy operation.Put differently, automslc effectively turns the systems of the package users into an illicit network for facilitating bulk music downloads in an unauthorized manner. The IP address is associated with a domain named "automusic[.]win," which is said to be used by the threat actor to oversee the distributed downloading operation."Deezer's API terms forbid the local or offline storage of complete audio content, but by downloading and decrypting entire tracks, automslc bypasses this limitation, potentially placing users at risk of legal repercussions," Boychenko said.The disclosure comes as the software supply chain security company detailed a rogue npm package called @ton-wallet/create that has been found stealing mnemonic phrases from unsuspecting users and developers in the TON ecosystem, while impersonating the legitimate @ton/ton package.The package, first published to the npm registry in August 2024, has attracted 584 downloads to date. It remains available for download.The malicious functionality embedded into the library is capable of extracting the process.env.MNEMONIC environment variable, thereby giving threat actors complete access to a cryptocurrency wallet and potentially drain a victim's digital assets. The information is transmitted to an attacker-controlled Telegram bot."This attack poses severe supply chain security risks, targeting developers and users integrating TON wallets into their applications," Socket said. "Regular dependency audits and automated scanning tools should be employed to detect anomalous or malicious behaviors in third-party packages before they are integrated into production environments."Found this article interesting? Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn to read more exclusive content we post.SHARE

Before the Russo brothers return to Marvel to direct two newAvengers movies, theyre releasingThe Electric State on Netflix. The film features Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt, in a sci-fi adventure tale about a ruined future after a failed robot uprising. (Apparently a robotic Mr. Peanut also plays a role? I didnt even know Mr. Peanut was a robot. I thought he was a peanut. You really do learn something new everyday.)The cast and creators involved makeThe Electric Stateone of the biggest titles coming to Netflix in March. But thats all it is; one of dozens of films and shows debuting on streaming over the course of the month. Theres also a new season ofFormula 1: Drive to Survive, a newSpongeBob SquarePants movie, a new season of the reality seriesTemptation Island(remember that one??),a new documentary about Charles Manson, and anotherweek of John Mulaneys live talk show. And thats still barely scratching the surface of everything you can watch.For the rest, heres the full list of whats coming to Netflixin March 2025:Avail. 3/1/25The Potato Lab -- NETFLIX SERIESA passionate researchers life takes a turn when a strict director arrives at her potato lab proving that love can sprout in the most unlikely places.Sakamoto Days-- NETFLIX ANIME (new episode)Once the greatest hitman of all, Taro Sakamoto retired in the name of love. But when his past catches up, he must fight to protect his beloved family.50 First Dates Annie (2014) Beginners Black Hawk Down Blade Runner: The Final Cut Blood and Bone Cell 211 Do the Right Thing Friday High-Rise The Holiday Ma National Security Next Friday Pride & Prejudice Runaway Jury See No Evil, Hear No Evil Sicario Ted Vampires Wedding CrashersNetflixNetflixloading...READ MORE: The Best Netflix Movies of the Year to Watch Right NowAvail. 3/3/25Hot Wheels Let's Race: Season 3 -- NETFLIX FAMILYCoop and his friends have trained for this moment their whole lives. Now, three epic races will decide who wins the Hot Wheels City Ultimate Garage!Avail. 3/4/25Andrew Schulz: LIFE -- NETFLIX COMEDY SPECIALIn this razor-sharp yet heartfelt special, Andrew Schulz unpacks the wildest moment of his life becoming a father.The Graham Norton Show: Best Bits: Week of February 21, 2025With Love, Meghan -- NETFLIX SERIESMeghan, Duchess of Sussex invites friends and famous guests to a beautiful California estate, where she shares cooking, gardening and hosting tips.Avail. 3/5/25Just One Look-- NETFLIX SERIESWhen an ominous photo mysteriously surfaces, Greta must confront buried truths and her hazy memory to save her husband from his dark secrets.The Leopard -- NETFLIX SERIESAmid the unification of 1860s Italy, a Sicilian prince grapples with the collision between his family's ancient privilege and revolutionary change.Medusa -- NETFLIX SERIESSomebody wants to kill CEO Brbara Hidalgo. Can she find the culprit as her family schemes ruthlessly for control of their Colombian business empire?Avail. 3/6/25Barbie & Teresa: Recipe For FriendshipNetflixNetflixloading...Tyler Perry's Beauty in Black: Season 1 Part 2 -- NETFLIX SERIESThe ruthless, backstabbing family behind a beauty brand and an underground trafficking ring will face a reckoning. Kimmie, the once-unassuming sex worker in their employ, becomes an unstoppable force of vengeance on a mission to rescue her kidnapped sister.Larissa: The Other Side of Anitta -- NETFLIX DOCUMENTARYBrazilian pop star Anitta reveals her most intimate world yet in this documentary that explores her dual identity, personal struggles and search for joy.Love is Blind: Sweden: Season 1: After the Altar -- NETFLIX SERIESPower RangersAvail. 3/7/25Chaos: The Manson Murders -- NETFLIX DOCUMENTARYIn August 1969, Charles Manson's followers killed seven people on his orders. Why? Explore a conspiracy of mind control, CIA experiments and murder.Delicious -- NETFLIX FILMDuring their vacation in the French countryside, a wealthy German family becomes entangled with a young hotel worker harboring sinister intentions.Formula 1: Drive to Survive: Season 7 (GB) -- NETFLIX DOCUMENTARYFamiliar faces make a comeback, team stalwarts defect to arch rivals, and new champions emerge in one of Formula One's most tumultuous seasons yet.Nadaaniyan -- NETFLIX FILMWhen a misunderstanding turns her friends against her, lovable rich girl Pia hires Arjun, a career-focused new student, to pretend to be her boyfriend.NetflixNetflixloading...Plankton: The Movie -- NETFLIX FAMILYPlankton's tangled love story with his sentient computer wife goes sideways when she takes a stand and decides to destroy the world without him.When Life Gives You Tangerines -- NETFLIX SERIESIn Jeju, a bold girl and a devoted boy's fated bond blossoms into a lifelong tale of setbacks and triumphs proving love can endure across generations.Avail. 3/8/25Sakamoto Days-- NETFLIX ANIME (new episode)Once the greatest hitman of all, Taro Sakamoto retired in the name of love. But when his past catches up, he must fight to protect his beloved family.Avail. 3/10/25American Manhunt: Osama bin Laden -- NETFLIX DOCUMENTARYFeaturing rare footage and interviews with CIA insiders, this edge-of-your-seat documentary series traces the epic hunt for Osama bin Laden.Avail. 3/12/25Everybodys Live with John Mulaney -- NETFLIX LIVE EVENTJohn Mulaney unleashes his one-of-a-kind comedic genius on late night with a spontaneous and sidesplitting live weekly show. (Live event in English.)NetflixNetflixloading...Temptation Island -- NETFLIX SERIESIn this spicy update to the hit reality series, four couples test their relationships by shacking up with eligible singles on a tropical island.Welcome to the Family -- NETFLIX SERIESA struggling single mom rallies her quirky family to outsmart a mafia boss after her estranged, wealthy father dies, leaving them with his debt.Avail. 3/13/25Adolescence-- NETFLIX SERIESWhen a 13-year-old is accused of the murder of a classmate, his family, therapist and the detective in charge are all left asking: what really happened?Love is Blind: Sweden: Season 2 -- NETFLIX SERIESA new group of singles arrives for the ultimate dating experiment: finding true love and lifetime commitment, all before laying eyes on each other.Avail. 3/14/25AudreyNetflixNetflixloading...The Electric State -- NETFLIX FILMMillie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt star in this retro-futuristic adventure about an orphaned teen's journey to find her brother after a robot rebellion.Avail. 3/15/25Sakamoto Days-- NETFLIX ANIME (new episode)Once the greatest hitman of all, Taro Sakamoto retired in the name of love. But when his past catches up, he must fight to protect his beloved family.Avail. 3/17/25CoComelon Lane: Season 4 -- NETFLIX FAMILYFollow JJ and friends on everyday adventures fueled by the power of imagination as they try new things, celebrate special moments and more!Inside: Season 2 -- NETFLIX SERIESContent creators take on a series of challenges to win a huge cash prize in this reality series from viral British YouTubers, the Sidemen.The Walking Dead: Dead City: Season 1Avail. 3/18/25Bert Kreischer: Lucky -- NETFLIX COMEDY SPECIALLosing 45 pounds. Getting parenting advice from Snoop Dogg. Bert Kreischer knows he's the luckiest guy around and he's recounting his blessings.Love & Hip Hop New York: Seasons 3-4The OutrunAvail. 3/19/25Twister: Caught in the Storm -- NETFLIX DOCUMENTARYIn May 2011, a massive tornado ripped through Joplin, Missouri. Through pulse-pounding firsthand footage, this documentary goes inside a deadly twister.NetflixNetflixloading...Woman of the Dead: Season 2 -- NETFLIX SERIESTwo years after avenging her husband's death, Blum has found a measure of peace but secrets never stay buried for long.Avail. 3/20/25Bet Your Life-- NETFLIX SERIESA down-and-out sports betting writer is roped into teaming up with the ghost of a bossy business tycoon demanding to crack his own murder case.Den of Thieves 2: PanteraThe Residence -- NETFLIX SERIESWhen a White House state dinner becomes a crime scene, detective Cordelia Cupp must investigate dozens of staff members and guests to catch a killer.Wolf King -- NETFLIX FAMILYA young commoner comes of age and learns he's the last of a long line of Werewolves and heir to the throne in this epic fantasy adventure series.Avail. 3/21/25Go! -- NETFLIX SERIESA young runner is given a second chance at life when he is offered a track scholarship, but can he chase his dreams without tripping on his lies?NetflixNetflixloading...Little Siberia -- NETFLIX FILMA pastor's faith turns upside down when a meteorite lands in his small Finnish town, its impact stirring up chaos and criminal intentions.Revelations -- NETFLIX FILMA pastor who believes in divine revelation and a detective haunted by visions pursue a missing person case exposing their own demons in the process.Avail. 3/22/25Sakamoto Days-- NETFLIX ANIME (finale)Once the greatest hitman of all, Taro Sakamoto retired in the name of love. But when his past catches up, he must fight to protect his beloved family.Avail. 3/25/25Chelsea Handler: The Feeling -- NETFLIX COMEDY SPECIALFrom ruining Thanksgiving to a wild summer fling, Chelsea Handler recounts coming of age, unexpected encounters and that time she met Bill Cosby.Con Mum -- NETFLIX DOCUMENTARYA chef's life is upended when a jet-setting, champagne-sipping, hotel-hopping woman claims to be his mother. This documentary reveals the untold story.Avail. 3/26/25Caught-- NETFLIX SERIESIn Argentinian Patagonia's city of Bariloche, journalist Ema Garay rises to prominence in digital media by exposing criminals who manage to evade the law. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Leo Mercer, a respected community figure who becomes the prime suspect in her investigation into the disappearance of a 16-year-old girl. As she searches for the truth, Ema finds herself forced to confront her own demons.I Survived a Crime: Season 2NetflixNetflixloading...Million Dollar Secret -- NETFLIX SERIESThis is a game of wit, cunning and deception. Twelve strangers enter a sumptuous lakeside estate and in each of their rooms is a mysterious welcome gift a box. Eleven of them are empty and one contains $1,000,000, and it's for that guest to keep as long as they keep their identity hidden. Devilish games will reveal clues about the millionaires identity, and they must do whatever it takes to keep their Million Dollar Secret.Avail. 3/27/25Gold & Greed: The Hunt for Fenn's Treasure -- NETFLIX DOCUMENTARYAn eccentric man named Forrest Fenn sets off a real-life treasure hunt when he hides a chest of gold in the Rockies and hides clues in a cryptic poem.Survival of the Thickest: Season 2 -- NETFLIX SERIESWith her styling brand on the rise and her love life on the rocks Mavis takes ambitious risks to make waves in the world of high fashion.Avail. 3/28/25The Ladys Companion-- NETFLIX SERIESHired to find husbands for three wealthy sisters, chaperone Elena Bianda is drawn into a late 19th-century world of love, scandal and comic intrigue.NetflixNetflixloading...The Life List -- NETFLIX FILMWhen Alex Roses mother sends her on a quest to complete her childhood bucket list, it takes her on a journey that will make you both laugh and cry as she uncovers family secrets, finds romance, and discovers herself along the way.Avail. 3/31/25Gone Girls: The Long Island Serial Killer -- NETFLIX DOCUMENTARYYoung women who worked in the sex industry were disappearing from New York City and Long Island, and no one was looking for them. Then in 2010, female remains were found in the Gilgo Beach area of Long Island, leading to a string of additional discoveries, all of which seemed to be connected. The case of the Long Island Serial Killer remained unsolved for 13 years until July 2023 when the police arrested a suspect. From Academy Award-nominated and Emmy-winning director Liz Garbus (Lost Girls) comes the definitive look at the twists and turns in a case that dominated headlines and is still developing in real time.Promised Hearts -- NETFLIX FILMA young woman's future is jeopardized by a secret arrangement that throws her life into chaos but it may be the only way to save her family.Rhythm + Flow Italy: Season 2 -- NETFLIX SERIESNew talent. New locations. Young artists from north to south and even overseas battle it out for a grand prize and the title of Italy's next rap star.Get our free mobile app10 Movie and TV Stars Who Quit Show BusinessThese amazing actors walked away from hugely successful careers.

The following post contains SPOILERS for the post-credits scene of Captain America: Brave New World.According to the director of Captain America: Brave New World, Julius Onah, the films post-credits scene between Sam Wilson and Samuel Sterns is meant to allude to the Illuminati, the Marvel superteam of heavy hitters like Black Bolt, Black Panther, Namor, Iron Man, Mr. Fantastic, and Professor X who previously appeared (in slightly different form) inDoctor Strange and the Multiverse of Madness.This team ishugely important to the Marvel Comics storyline that serves as the inspiration for the upcomingAvengers films,DoomsdayandSecret Wars.In our latest video, well explain who the Illuminati are, how they are different than the Avengers, how they are connected to the concept of incursions, and how they bring about the events ofSecret Wars.Watch our full explainer below:READ MORE: The Worst Marvel Comics EverIf you liked that video on how Captain America: Brave New World sets up Avengers: Doomsday, check out more of our videos below, including one on all the plot holes and unanswered questions in Brave New World (and how to explain them), one on all of the Marvel Easter eggs inCaptain America: Brave New World, and our video breakdown ofBrave New Worlds ending and post-credits scene. Plus, theres tons more videos over atScreenCrushs YouTube channel. Be sure to subscribe to catch all our future episodes.Captain America: Brave New World is now playing in theaters.Sign up for Disney+ here.Get our free mobile appEvery Marvel Cinematic Universe Movie, Ranked From Worst to BestIt started with Iron Man and its continued and expanded ever since. Its the Marvel Cinematic Universe, with 35 movies and counting. But whats the best and the worst? We ranked them all.

All jobs Client Implementations Data Solutions Architect Posted A few minutes ago Subscript helps finance teams at subscription companies better understand and manage revenue data and analytics. We're well funded by top Silicon Valley Venture Capitalists, and are a completely global team based all around the world. The way we work: We are a remote company - work anywhere you want! Any timezone on earth (or outside earth, whatever) We are an asynchronous team - we don't do scheduled meetings, and rely on each team member to pick their own schedule and to communicate clearly in writing and with recorded videos We operate completely autonomously - no one will tell you what to do, we'll just tell you the goals and you will figure out how to work towards them with the rest of the team Like all start-ups we're scrappy, but not scrappy on compensation: Subscript is committed to paying our awesome team members at market-rate, including benefits. Apply now Data Solutions works with new customers to set up their data in Subscript and verify everything is correctThe basicsThe product : We're building the premier metrics-first finance and billing platform that empowers B2B SaaS leaders to invoice their customers, tell their ARR story, and track accounting revenue, all in one placeregardless of how complex their customers' contracts areThe role you'll play on our team: You'll be the first point of contact for new customers after they've signed on to Subscript , and will work with them through complex, data-intensive implementations . You'll hook our new customers up to their source data, help them clean and validate their data in Subscript, and help do the types of analysis that give them the most value .Over the course of each implementation, you'll work to get ARR metrics, invoices, and accounting revenue clean and complete, referencing clients' CRMs (e.g. Hubspot, Salesforce), general ledgers (e.g. Quickbooks, Xero), billing tools (e.g. Stripe, Maxio, Chargebee), and spreadsheets. To get there, we rely heavily on spreadsheets, external APIs, SQL, and occasionally Python.You'll be the sixth member of the Data Solutions team, and will help define what the role becomes as we grow! You'll work closely with the whole company, including our co-founders Sidharth Kakkar and Michelle Lee. They formerly built and successfully exited a B2B SaaS company called Freckle Education, and this is their second start-up.We're a young company with a lean team (current under 30 people, but growing quickly!), so you'll have a huge say in how we shape and build all parts of our organization . You'll have a ton of autonomy in defining + iterating on best practices and processes to really help both our customers AND our teammates reach the moon!You'll not only work directly with the new clients you take on, but also support other team members as they encounter new challenges and could learn from your experience and insight.The way we work: We are an asynchronous teamwe don't do scheduled internal meetings, so the vast majority of communication is available to anybody at any time in written documentation, whole-company Slack channels, and video documentation. If you're sick of pointless meetings, this is the place for you!We operate completely autonomously no one will tell you what to do; everyone gets transparent context and details about the company goals and you will figure out how to work towards them with the rest of the team!This is a remote job - work anywhere you wantAlthough we are fully remote and asynchronous internally, our clients are all over the world; you'll be taking live calls most days of the week with customers in California, Australia, or US-East, so a substantial overlap in your working hours is a must! You can expect to be working US-Pacific hoursWe're a team that loves working togetherwe love playing board games (these we do synchronously ). Full-time team members meet up multiple times per year for live off-sites around the world (expenses paid!)Our interview processWe like to be really transparent and communicative about everything at Subscript, including our interview process:Our interview process is designed to focus on your intuition with analytics, and your ability to communicate clearly (both written and in video calls). We default to asynchronous communication internally, so the majority of the interview process follows suite .The interview will focus around your ability to understand, support, and engage our awesome customers First, we'll ask you to work on spreadsheet task similar to the type of data work you'll be doing with our customers! As part of this simulation, you'll get a chance to ask clarification questions about the data . We'll then have a short live call to talk through your background, career goals, and working style, which will also offer you the chance to talk through questions you may have about the role, the product, the team, or whatever else is on your mind.The second asynchronous task will be a SQL exercise (postgres) to show your ability in working with databases. We'll provide the data and details on the required output, and you'll provide the query to get there.Next, you'll have a chance to show off your customer communication, as you prepare for and lead a live kick-off call with a brand new Subscript customer (who we will be taking on the role of for the purposes of the interview ).Finally, you'll have a chance to meet and talk with one of our cofounders. This isn't graded or used in evaluation, but is an opportunity for you to go to know us better and answer any lingering questions you might have. It's important for us that our company and working style is a good fit for you and that you have everything you need to make the right decision.RequirementsOur ideal candidate loves data (analyzing it, talking about it, advising our customers using it). You'll be acting as a key strategic advisor to our customers using that data!We're looking for...serious spreadsheet skillsexperience requesting and reading JSON data from APIs satisfaction in getting to perfectly clean dataSQL masteryfamiliarity with B2B SaaS business modelsability to work US-Pacific time5+ years relevant experienceWe're also happy to see (but don't require)...comfort in Pythonexperience with general ledgers used in SaaS finance (e.g. Quickbooks, Xero, and and Netsuite)exposure to CRM software (Hubspot and Salesforce)You're kind, empathetic, and communicative . Both externally, as you'll be collaborating closely with customers, as well as internally, as you'll be supporting with the broader team in written docs + recorded videos.BenefitsLike all start-ups we're scrappy, but not scrappy on compensation: Subscript is committed to paying our awesome team members at market-rate. We're funded by First Round Capital and backed by several Angels at high-growth b2b saas companies.Apply NowLet's start your dream job Apply now Subscript View company Jobs posted: 21 Related Jobs Remote All Other Remote jobs

Tourists to Odense, Odenses robotics success has its roots in the more traditional industry of shipbuilding. In the 1980s, the Lind shipyard, owned by the Mrsk Group, faced increasing competition from Asia and approached the nearby University of Southern Denmark for help developing welding robots to improve the efficiency of the shipbuilding process. Niels Jul Jacobsen, then a student, recalls jumping at the chance to join the project; hed wanted to work with robots ever since seeing Star Wars as a teenager. But in Denmark [it] didnt seem like a possibility, he says. There was no sort of activity going on. That began to change with the partnership between the shipyard and the university. In the 90s, that relationship got a big boost when the foundation behind the Mrsk shipping company funded the creation of the Mrsk Mc-Kinney Mller Institute (MMMI), a center dedicated to studying autonomous systems. The Lind shipyard eventually wound down its robotics program, but research continued at the MMMI. Students flocked to the institute to study robotics. And it was there that three researchers had the idea for a more lightweight, flexible, and easy-to-use industrial robot arm. That idea would become a startup called Universal Robots, Odenses first big robotics success story. In 2015, the US semiconductor testing giant Teradyne acquired Universal Robots for $285 million. That was a significant turning point for robotics in the city. It was proof, says cofounder Kristian Kassow, that an Odense robotics company could make it without being tied to a specific project, like the previous shipyard work. It was a signal of legitimacy that attracted more recognition, talent, and investment to the local robotics scene. Kim Povlsen, president and CEO of Universal Robots, says it was critical that Teradyne kept the companys main base in Odense and maintained the Danish work culture, which he describes as nonhierarchical and highly collaborative. This extends beyond company walls, with workers generally happy to share their expertise with others in the local industry. Its like this symbiotic thing, and it works really well, he says. Universal Robots positions itself as a platform company rather than just a manufacturer, inviting others to work with its tech to create robotic solutions for different sectors; the companys robot arms can be found in car-part factories, on construction sites, in pharmaceutical laboratories, and on wine-bottling lines. Its a growth play for the company, but it also offers opportunities to startups in the vicinity. In 2018 Teradyne bought a second Odense robotics startup, Mobile Industrial Robots, which was founded by Jacobsen, the Star Wars fan who worked on the ship-welding robots in his university days. The company makes robots for internal transportationfor example, to carry pallets or tow carts in a warehouse. The sale has allowed Jacobsen to invest in other robotics projects, including Capra, a maker of outdoor mobile robots, where he is now CEO. The success of these two large robotics companies, which together employ around 800 people in Odense, created a ripple effect, bringing both funding and business acumen into the robotics cluster, says Sren Elmer Kristensen, CEO of the government-funded organization Odense Robotics. There are challenges to being based in a city that, though the third-largest in Denmark, is undeniably small on the global scale. Attracting funding is one issue. Most investment still comes from within the countrys borders. Sourcing talent is another; demand outstrips supply for highly qualified tech workers. Kasper Hallenborg, director of the MMMI, says the institute feels an obligation to produce enough graduates to support the local industrys needs. Even now, too few women and girls enter STEM fields, he adds; the MMMI supports programs aimed at primary schoolers to try to strengthen the pipeline. As the Odense robotics cluster expands, however, it has become easier to attract international talent. Its less of a risk for people to move, because plenty of companies are hiring if one job doesnt work out. And Odenses small size can have advantages. Juel, the mayor, points to drone-testing facilities established at the nearby Hans Christian Andersen Airport, which, thanks to relatively low air traffic, is able to offer plenty of flying time. The airport is one of the few that allow drones to fly beyond the visual line of sight. The shipyard, once the citys main employer, closed down completely shortly after the 20072008 financial crisis but has recently become an industrial park aimed at manufacturing particularly large structures like massive steel monopiles. The university is currently building a center to develop automation and robotics for use in such work. Visit today and you may see not ships but gigantic offshore wind turbinesassembled, of course, with the help of robots. Victoria Turk is a technology journalist based in London.

Greetings from a cold winter day. As I write this letter, we are in the early stages of President Donald Trumps second term. The inauguration was exactly one week ago, and already an image from that day has become an indelible symbol of presidential power: a photo of the tech industrys great data barons seated front and center at the swearing-in ceremony. Elon Musk, Sundar Pichai, Jeff Bezos, and Mark Zuckerberg all sat shoulder to shoulder, almost as if on display, in front of some of the most important figures of the new administration. They were not the only tech leaders in Washington, DC, that week. Tim Cook, Sam Altman, and TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew also put in appearances during the presidents first days back in action. These are tycoons who lead trillion-dollar companies, set the direction of entire industries, and shape the lives of billions of people all over the world. They are among the richest and most powerful people who have ever lived. And yet, just like you and me, they need relationships to get things done. In this case, with President Trump. Those tech barons showed up because they need relationships more than personal status, more than access to capital, and sometimes even more than ideas. Some of those same peoplemost notably Zuckerberghad to make profound breaks with their own pasts in order to forge or preserve a relationship with the incoming president. Relationships are the stories of people and systems working together. Sometimes by choice. Sometimes for practicality. Sometimes by force. Too often, for purely transactional reasons. Thats why were exploring relationships in this issue. Relationships connect us to one another, but also to the machines, platforms, technologies, and systems that mediate modern life. Theyre behind the partnerships that make breakthroughs possible, the networks that help ideas spread, and the bonds that build trustor at least access. In this issue, youll find stories about the relationships we forge with each other, with our past, with our children (or not-quite-children, as the case may be), and with technology itself. Rhiannon Williams explores the relationships people have formed with AI chatbots. Some of these are purely professional, others more complicated. This kind of relationship may be novel now, but its something we will all take for granted in just a few years. Also in this issue, Antonio Regalado delves into our relationship with the ecological past and the way ancient DNA is being used not only to learn new truths about who we are and where we came from but also, potentially, to address modern challenges of climate and disease. In an extremely thought-provoking piece, Jessica Hamzelou examines peoples relationships with the millions of IVF embryos in storage. Held in cryopreservation tanks around the world, these embryos wait in limbo, in ever growing numbers, as we attempt to answer complicated ethical and legal questions about their existence and preservation. Turning to the workplace, Rebecca Ackermann explores how our relationships with our employers are often mediated through monitoring systems. As she writes, what may be more important than the privacy implications is how the data they collect is shifting the relationships between workers and managers as algorithms determine hiring and firing, promotion and deactivation. Good luck with that. Thank you for reading. As always, I value your feedback. So please, reach out and let me know what you think. I really dont want this to be a transactional relationship. Warmly, Mat HonanEditor in Chiefmat.honan@technologyreview.com

Source:&nbsp ShutterstockThe construction industry will have a single regulator, the deputy prime minister Angela Rayner has announced as part of the governments full response to the Grenfell Inquiry Speaking earlier today (26 February) in Parliament, Rayner said the new regulatory body for England and Wales would be among several changes made to improve safety and standards in the sector post-Grenfell.Once created, the strengthened regulator would have the power to enforce tough new rules on construction product safety and stamp out bad practice and drive higher standards in the sector, the government said. It would effectively combine the current Building Safety Regulator in England and Wales with the UK-wide National Regulator for Construction Products.The AJ understands any changes would not impact the regulatory function of the Architects Registration Board (ARB). Nor would it undertake testing and certification of construction products or issue certificates of compliance.The move is one of 58 actions due to be taken by government as part of its full response to the Grenfell Inquiry published today in response to the recommendations set out by inquiry chair Martin Moor-Bick, 37 of which were aimed at the government.Moore-Bick, in his seven-volume report into the blaze that killed 72 people on 14 June 2017 at Grenfell Tower, set out several failings by firms involved in the fatal refurbishment of the building prior to the disaster. They included cladding firms Kingspan, Celotex and Arconic and Studio E, the now defunct architecture practice.Rayner said that as part of new powers under the Procurement Act, companies criticised in the years-long probe would be blocked from public contracts from for what Rayner described as their disgraceful mercenary behaviour.This includes Studio E Architects, which, although no longer trading, has been officially blocked from shutting down as a result of the Metropolitan Polices own investigation into the fire.Rayner told Parliament: The report found that they [cladding firms] acted with systemic dishonesty and they miss-sold and they marketed [the products and their] disgraceful mercenary behaviour out profit before people and exploited the regulatory regime to evade accountability with fatal consequences.Calling for companies to be held account, she added: To my disgust and their shame, some have shown little remorse and have refused to even help fix the building safety crisis that they did so much to create.The announcement follows prime minister Keir Starmers warning in September that Grenfell firms would be barred from seeking public contracts following horrific failings outlined by inquiry chair Moore-Bick in the second report.Reforms recommended by Moore-Bick, and which the government is now due to follow up, also include the creation of a chief construction advisor, due to be outlined later this year, new rights for social housing tenants and the publication of a construction product reform green paper to introduce a safety first approach to building.Fire safety will also become the responsibility of the Department for Housing, Communities and Local Government, on the inquirys recommendation. The government will also consult on the creation of a new college of fire and rescue.Speaking to the bereaved and survivors, Rayner added that the government fully supported the Metropolitan Polices investigation into firms involved in Grenfell.She said: I pay tribute to the resolve of the bereaved families, survivors and members of the immediate community. Their campaigning has seen new legislation [the Building Safety Act] passed which members of this government also supported.Reforms are expected to come into effect from 2028 at the earliest, with the government committing to quarterly updates on proposed changes to the construction sector.The governments post-Grenfell reformsA new single construction regulatorto ensure those responsible for building safety are held to account.Tougher oversightof those responsible for testing and certifying, manufacturing and using construction products with serious consequences for those who break the rules.Alegal duty of candourthrough a new Hillsborough Law, compelling public authorities to disclose the truth, ensuring transparency in major incidents, and holding those responsible for failures to account.Stronger, clearer, and enforceablelegal rights for residents,making landlords responsible for acting on safety concerns.Empowering social housing residentsto challenge landlords and demand safe, high-quality housing, by expanding the Four Million Homes training programme. Make it easier for tenants to report safety concerns and secure landlord action by taking forward the Make Things Right campaign.Ensuring lastingtransparency and accountability by creating a publicly accessible record of all public inquiry recommendations.2025-02-26Gino Spocchiacomment and share

Earlier today (26 February), in its official response to the Grenfell Inquirys final report, the government said it had accepted findings and taken action on all 58 of its recommendations.These included a new single construction regulator in England and Wales so those responsible for building safety are held to account the design of which will be consulted on in the autumn as well as the appointment of a chief construction advisor.Tougher oversight of those responsible for testing and certifying, manufacturing and using construction products, with serious consequences for those who break the rules has also been promised, with Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner announcing a Construction Products Reform Green Paper.AdvertisementSeven organisations named in the report including the now closed Studio E Architects are also set to be banned from winning public contracts under the new procurement powers.The government said its progress on bringing in the measures would be published every quarter from mid-2025, with an annual update to Parliament to ensure wider scrutiny of the pace and direction of work.Paul Hyett, an architectural expert on the Grenfell Inquiry and co-founder of Vickery Hyett Architects, described the announcements as good news.He told the AJ: Finally, a government gets it. Decades of disgraceful and damaging complacency vis--vis the importance of robust and effectively administered building codes have been swept aside by this welcome response.Recognition of our industrys duties towards residents, and of their right to be heard, are clearly in evidence here: they are the real clients.AdvertisementHyett went on: Now we must all step up to improve training and procurement processes across the industry. Design and build must also be in the cross-hairs: for decades it just drifted from bad to worse. Radical reform is essential there.The former RIBA president concluded: But above all, the construction industry must, at its heart, show the real will to change its culture. This is not about silly slogans adorning site hoardings: its about rigour and accountability in all that we do. Trust can only be expected when it is deserved.This is not about silly slogans adorning site hoardingsPeter Drummond, RIAS chair of practice, told the AJ: The gross legislative, regulatory, and delivery failures which led to the Grenfell Tragedy were apparent for many years. Westminster failed to act after Garnock Court, Harrow Court, and Lakanal. Warnings were ignored and ministers of successive governments continued to prioritise deregulation and cost over quality.Todays announcement of the changes proposed in England are welcome. But the real test is whether government implements them robustly or, once the fanfare has died down, seek to dilute the measures taken. Frankly, based on past performance, I have very significant concerns.Enough of the grand talk and more hard action is essentialDrummond, who sits on the Scottish Ministerial Grenfell Phase II Working Group, concluded: It is all too easy to see the chief construction advisor for England being a rerun of the 2009 mess, providing a lot of talk but limited benefits. Those involved have to place quality at the forefront of policy including training, supervision, and procurement. Enough of the grand talk and more hard action is essential.Andrew Mellor, partner at PRP and technical advisor to MHCLG and the Welsh Government on regulations and building safety, said the impacts of the 'further changes' on the construction industry would be 'far reaching'.He told the AJ: 'The proposed implementation plan over a three year period appears to be realistic, and the focus on the existing improvement commitments is very sensible given the existing immediate capacity of the industry and regulators to take on more regulatory change.'Mellor added: 'Perhaps the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) will be renamed as the new Construction Regulator and given additional responsibilities. The BSR will need more resource if that is to happen, and the government will have to allow time for recruitment in order to enable the new regulator to be able to fully deliver on the commitments, and to prevent the delays that many are currently experiencing with outputs from the BSR.'Londons mayor, Sadiq Khan, said the governments action plan marked an important step towards the reform needed to correct the catastrophic failures exposed by the Grenfell Tower tragedy.He said: We owe it to the 72 people whose lives were needlessly lost in the Grenfell Tower fire to ensure that nothing like it ever happens again.Ministers must now act swiftly to implement their plans for tougher building regulations, including giving a new construction regulator real powers to raise standards and ensure homes are safe and secure.Companies implicated in the Grenfell report should be barred from future contractsI welcome more being done to hold building owners and developers to account for the safety of their buildings and will continue to work with the government to speed up the pace at which buildings with dangerous cladding are made safe.Khan went on: At the same time those companies implicated in the Grenfell report should be barred from future contracts. This must now finally happen without further delay.Existing memorial at Grenfell TowerCommentAndrew Parker, head of the construction disputes and building safety practices at law firm ForstersThe industry is already getting to grips with relatively new legislation from the Building Safety Act and navigating the Building Safety Regulator. Too much radical change at this point would create further uncertainty and reduce productivity in the construction industry at a time when the government is seeking to deliver on its growth ambitions.The creation of a single construction regulator and chief construction adviser is long overdue and should, if introduced properly and in consultation with the industry, be an effective way of reducing the complexity and fragmentation of the regulatory regime.Steps to professionalise fire engineers and assessors is welcome, the main challenge that remains is a severe lack of capacity in the sector which is affecting the pace in which buildings can be remediated.For immediate release:Gary Strong, head of professional practice at RICSA new, dedicated construction sector regulator and chief construction adviser is welcome, and RICS will continue to offer its expertise to the government to support plans for the new regulator as it takes shape.New rules on product safety should further raise manufacturing standards, whilst new laws empowering tenants in the social housing sector will help protect some of the most vulnerable.It is reassuring that the government plans to provide updates every quarter and RICS will support the implementation of these reforms every step of the way.Florence Eshalomi, chair of the Housing, Communities and Local Government CommitteeThe tragedy at Grenfell exposed numerous systematic failings in a wide range of areas, in building and product standards and testing, fire safety, and within central government and at local authority level, which must be addressed. Grenfell also highlighted the underlying issue of the stigma faced by those living in social housing, where their concerns were too often cruelly neglected and ignored. This culture must change, and the government should set out what they will do to ensure that social housing tenants are dealt with respectfully and their complaints responded to.It should not be forgotten that many of the victims of the fire at the Grenfell Tower were disabled people. To help ensure such a tragedy is not repeated, it is vitally important the Government addresses the issue of Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) for disabled people. The Government needs to set out how residential PEEPs will be made enforceable and how they will ensure disabled people in the private rented sector have the same access to PEEPs as those in social housing.The governments announcement that they will create a single construction regulator, and a chief construction adviser is welcome. The HCLG Committee looks forward to examining the detail of the Governments plans later this year.The HCLG Committee will be holding a short inquiry to undertake an initial examination of the governments response to the Grenfell Inquiry recommendations and to explore progress on the wider programme of work around building and fire safety and remediation.

Cortisol is nothing new; we have known about it since itsdiscovery in the mid-20th century. However, in the last year or so, this naturally occurring hormone has entered the limelight of social media. Indeed, you can find videos on TikTok discussing "cortisol face" with millions of views. Unfortunately, trends are rarely as simple as they appear and may have people jumping into action before learning what cortisol supplements even are and how they react in the body.While cortisol supplements can be the right choice in some situations, it's essential to understand the myriad factors that come into play.What is cortisol, and how is it related to stress? Upgrade your inbox Get cnet insider From talking fridges to iPhones, our experts are here to help make the world a little less complicated. Cortisol is often called the "stress hormone" and is released by the adrenal glands -- part of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, a bodily system that regulates the stress response -- when our bodies experience stress. It helps our bodies respond to threatening experiences while managing several facets of our biology.Cortisol regulates blood sugar, suppresses inflammation, regulates metabolism, is involved in our circadian rhythms and influences the fight-or-flight reaction. It's essential for survival. Because cortisol is a glucocorticoid hormone, and most of our body tissue has glucocorticoid receptors, cortisol can have a broad and ubiquitous effect throughout the body.Dietary aspects can also influence our cortisol levels, according to Diogo Barardo, Ph.D., director of R&D at biotechnology company Novos Core. For instance, higher levels of sugar and saturated fats in a diet can negatively increase cortisol levels. Conversely, a diet high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains may lower cortisol levels.Beyond diet, though, several other factors can influence yourcortisol levels. These factors include some medications, alcohol, caffeine, adrenal gland tumors, athletic activity, pregnancy and a variety of health conditions. Yurii Yarema/Getty ImagesHigh cortisol symptoms"Excessively high cortisol levels, especially when sustained over time, can be damaging. Chronic high cortisol can also negatively affect metabolic health by promoting insulin resistance and inflammatory processes," said Barardo. In some cases, high cortisol levels could be a sign of Cushing disease, also known as hypercortisolism, a progressive pituitary disease that causes the body to overproduce cortisol.Symptoms of high cortisol can vary between individuals. They include weight gain in the face and abdomen, fat buildup under the shoulder blades, purple stretchmarks across the abdomen, decreasing muscle strength, high blood sugar, hypertension, excessive hair growth in women and osteoporosis. Mental symptoms can include brain fog, memory issues and irritability. While this captures many of the possible symptoms, it may not contain all of them. In many cases, people will only experience some of these symptoms when they have high cortisol.If you experience symptoms of high cortisol, consider speaking with a medical expert about the risks of high cortisol and Cushing disease. On the other hand, if you have dangerously low cortisol levels, you will want to discuss Addison's disease. Thankfully, you can consult a physician and test your cortisol levels. Ruling out such illnesses, however, may require several tests.Cortisol tests are often performed using blood samples but can also be done through urinary analysis. Because the urinary analysis test uses a series of inputs over 24 hours, this test may yield more accurate results than blood tests, which often only capture cortisol data from one point in a person's day. As Barardo has said, "This captures cortisol fluctuations throughout the day rather than at one single point in time."The best supplements to potentially reduce cortisolWhile there are dietary factors that can increase or decrease cortisol levels, the supplements that aid in this do so indirectly."Cortisol itself isn't typically supplemented directly, but certain supplements may help regulate cortisol," Barardo said. "Certain supplements like magnesium, vitamin C, Rhodiola rosea and pterostilbene [the primary antioxidant component of blueberries] are studied for their potential to help regulate cortisol and mitigate the stress response." He said that each of these compounds has the potential to affect cortisol levels through "modulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis." Yana Iskayeva/Getty ImagesVitamin CVitamin C may be one of the top potential supplements to reduce cortisol and is readily abundant in several formats. However, how much of this supplement you should take will vary between products. To ensure you're safe, read the product guidelines to ensure you don't exceed the recommended amounts.A study published in 2023 found that vitamin C can reduce cortisol levels in some patients with hypercortisolemia. "Vitamin C plays a notable role in cortisol modulation, particularly under stress, through its influence on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis," Barardo said. "Research demonstrates that vitamin C can reduce excessive cortisol production in response to both psychological and physical stressors."Vitamin C can be found naturally in several foods that are commonly available. All citrus fruits have vitamin C within them, but so do potatoes, peppers, strawberries, broccoli and Brussel sprouts.AshwagandhaThis plant is considered an adaptogenic herb, meaning it's believed to help the body manage and reduce stress responses. The US National Institute of Health states within itsfact sheet on ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) that "several randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials, most of them fairly small in size and of short duration, have found that ashwagandha may reduce perceived stress and anxiety and improve the quality and duration of sleep." However, because these studies used different ashwagandha preparations and doses, it's difficult to pinpoint a specific recommendation for a specific supplement to reduce cortisol.It's rare to find this plant in everyday recipes, but it can be found as a dietary supplement in several forms ranging from powders to gummies to beverages. How much you should take will vary between these products, so checking the directions before use is essential. Anna Blazhuk/Getty ImagesOmega-3 fatty acidsResearch has pursued the idea of omega-3 fatty acids having a reductive effect on cortisol levels. Apaper published in 2021 found that participants who took high levels of omega-3 had lower levels of cortisol when compared to the placebo group. How much of this you can safely eat daily is based on your age, with arecommended intake table on the National Institute for Health covering each age category. For men over age 14, 1.6 grams daily is recommended, while women over 14 should consume 1.1 grams daily. Those who are pregnant or lactating should consume more.Omega-3 fatty acids are found in many foods but are especially common in fish, like salmon, mackerel and tuna, and some types of seeds, such as flaxseed, chia seeds and walnuts. Omega-3s can also be obtained as a dietary supplement in various forms.Rhodiola rosea"As an adaptogen, Rhodiola rosea supports the body's stress response by modulating the HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) axis," Barardo said. "This axis plays a central role in cortisol production, and Rhodiola's effects help balance cortisol levels rather than simply suppress or elevate them, which is characteristic of adaptogens."According to a 2009 study, repeated doses of Rhodiola rosea can have "an anti-fatigue effect that increases mental performance, particularly the ability to concentrate, and decreases cortisol response to awakening stress in burnout patients with fatigue syndrome." Exact dosages for this compound will vary between products, but each supplement for lowering cortisol should include recommended intakes on its packaging. Boonchai Wedmakawand/Getty ImagesPterostilbenePterostilbene, an antioxidant mainly found in blueberries, has been found to improve stress-related behaviors. Astudy published in 2021 tested pterostilbene treatments on mice, and their findings "suggest that pterostilbene may effectively modulate stress-related abnormal behaviors, neuroinflammation and HPA axis hyperactivity.""Although direct studies on pterostilbene's effect on cortisol are still emerging, early evidence suggests it could support a balanced stress response through neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects, which may make it beneficial in chronic stress scenarios," Barardo said.Cortisol supplements utilizing pterostilbene may be less common but should contain specific recommended intakes for each product if available. As for food sources, aside from blueberries, pterostilbene can be found in grapes and peanuts.Are these supplements safe and necessary?While supplements to lower cortisol may be generally safe for most people, they are not the only way to regulate stress. Whether or not these cortisol supplements are necessary will vary between individuals and circumstances; most individuals without cortisol-related illnesses should be okay without them."Supplements that help regulate cortisol are generally safe, but they're not always necessary for everyone," Barardo said. "A healthy lifestyle that includesstress management practices can help maintain optimal cortisol levels naturally."To help reduce stress levels without needing cortisol supplements, people may be interested in practicing meditation, yoga, pursuing other athletic activities or finding various means of coping with high stress. Research has underscored a variety of mechanisms for reducing stress, with a strong emphasis on what's calledmindfulness-based stress reduction. Although these techniques can be very effective in some cases, not everyone is equally inclined towards mindfulness practices, and learning these techniques without a guide can be difficult.When considering cortisol supplements, it's important to know that the FDA does not regulate supplements. Hence, the requirements for accuracy, transparency and testing are often less than expected. Barardo also points out, "Over-reliance on supplements marketed as cortisol regulators may not address the root causes of stress or high cortisol." Tetra Images/Getty ImagesWhat about cortisol blockers?Cortisol blockers, like mifepristone and pasireotide, are prescription medications used to treat Cushing's syndrome. They work by either blocking the uptake of cortisol to receptors or by preventing the release of cortisol in the first place. Beyond this particular class of medication, some people may also refer to supplements and tactics for reducing cortisol levels as blockers, but the difference can be vast. Companies marketing over-the-counter cortisol blockers often rebrand cortisol supplements or other approaches for lowering cortisol.When it comes to cortisol blocker medications, there can be side effects that your doctor will discuss with you if you're prescribed these medications. These side effects vary between specific cortisol blocker medications. However, these medications are FDA-approved for the treatment of Cushing's syndrome.When it comes to cortisol supplements and stress-coping techniques, how safe they are will vary between supplements and techniques. Supplements should have recommended dosages but can be cross-checked against recommended intake levels for specific compounds, like magnesium or vitamin C. However, it is essential to remember that the FDA does not regulate supplements. Always consult with your healthcare provider before taking any supplements.How to naturally reduce cortisolThere are several ways to influence and reduce your cortisol levels naturally. How well these approaches work will vary between individuals and instances, with some approaches becoming more effective with practice or time.To reduce cortisol levels, Barardo recommends regular exercise, a balanced diet and engaging in meditation and mindfulness. "Vitamin C-rich foods and a healthy lifestyle that includes sleep and physical activity are also effective at keeping cortisol levels in check," he added. "Additionally, interacting with loved ones and pets can lower cortisol and increase serotonin, improving mental health, reducing stress and helping people live longer, healthier lives." Avoiding foods that put excess stress on the body, like caffeine or alcohol, is also recommended.Human health is often seen as holistic, wherein improving health metrics in one area will also increase health in other areas. Many of these approaches for reducing cortisol involve increasing general areas of health. Pursuingbetter mental and emotional well-being, for instance, can be linked to better cortisol regulation. The tactics mentioned above fold in several approaches that can help mitigate stress and encourage a reduction in cortisol.Sometimes, you may be otherwise healthy, but your body still produces more cortisol than expected. If continuing to pursue natural methods for cortisol regulation doesn't help you, then it might be wise to speak with a medical expert and test your cortisol levels.The bottom lineCortisol is known as the stress hormone because it's released in higher quantities during times of stress and enhances our fight, flight or freeze reactions. When overproduced and sustained at high levels, this hormone can cause higher stress levels and discomfort and may also contribute to physical symptoms like "cortisol face."Various supplements, including vitamin C, ashwagandha, omega-3 fatty acids, Rhodiola rosea and pterostilbene, may help you lower your cortisol levels. However, there are many natural ways, likemindfulness breathing exercises, to manage stress and cortisol that may pose less risk of side effects. Some cases of high cortisol could be indications of Cushing's syndrome, in which case medical assistance will be needed.

Key takeaways You can earn up to 4.65% APY with today's best CDs.The Federal Reserve is expected to cut interest rates later this year, which means CD rates are likely to drop, too.Opening a CD today allows you to lock in a high APY and protect your earnings from future rate cuts. A certificate of deposit can be a smart way to earn guaranteed interest on money you can set aside for a while. And with CD rates holding steady for now, it's a great time to open an account and lock in a high annual percentage yield before rates start dropping.Today's best CDs offer APYs up to 4.65% -- more than three times the national average for some terms. But with the Federal Reserve likely to cut interest rates later this year, these APYs won't stick around forever. TAX SOFTWARE DEALS OF THE WEEK H&R Block Free Simple Tax Returns eFile: $0 (save $0) TurboTax Deluxe 2024 (Federal and State, PC/Mac Download): $56 (save $24) TurboTax Premier 2024 (Federal and State, PC/Mac Download): $83 (save $32) TaxSlayer Classic Plan: $28 (save $10) Deals are selected by the CNET Group commerce team, and may be unrelated to this article.Read on to see some of the highest CD rates available now and how much you could earn by depositing different amounts.Today's best CD rates Term Highest APY*BankEstimated earnings on $1,000 depositEstimated earnings on $5,000 depositEstimated earnings on $10,000 deposit6 months 4.65%CommunityWide Federal Credit Union$22.99$114.93$229.851 year 4.45%CommunityWide Federal Credit Union$44.50$222.50$445.003 years 4.15%America First Credit Union$129.74$648.69$12,97.385 years 4.25%America First Credit Union$231.35$1,156.73$2,313.47 Experts recommend comparing rates before opening a CD account to get the best APY possible. Enter your information below to get CNET's partners' best rate for your area.Why now is a smart time to open a CDA CD can be a great place to stash your cash at any time, but in periods of inflation like today's, they can be especially lucrative. As the Federal Reserve raises interest rates to fight inflation, banks tend to follow suit, raising APYs on consumer products like CDs and savings accounts.If you open a CD while rates remain elevated, you can continue to enjoy the same high returns even when rates begin to fall because your APY is locked in when you open a CD.But don't wait too long to take advantage of today's APYs. While the Fed chose to pause rates at its January meeting, experts expect it to cut rates later this year, which means the clock is ticking."With [the Fed's] shift to a more cautious stance, savers can continue to benefit from relatively strong CD rates, at least for part of this year," said Chad Olivier, Certified Financial Planner and CEO of The Olivier Group.You can earn up to 5% APY on the best high-yield savings accounts. Check out top savings rates now.Weigh these factors when comparing CDsA competitive APY is important, but it's not the only thing you should consider. To find the right CD for you, weigh these things, too:When you'll need your money: Early withdrawal penalties on CDs can eat into your interest earnings if you need your money before the term ends, so choose a timeline that makes sense. Alternatively, you can select a no-penalty CD, although the APY may not be as high as you'd get with a traditional CD of the same term.Minimum deposit requirement: Some CDs require a minimum deposit to open an account, typically $500 to $1,000. Knowing how much money you have to set aside can help you narrow your options.Fees: Maintenance and other fees can cut into your savings. Many online banks don't charge fees because they have lower overhead costs than banks with physical branches. Read the fine print for any account you're evaluating.Safety and security: Make sure the bank or credit union you're considering is an FDIC or NCUA member so your money is protected if the bank fails.Customer ratings and reviews: Visit sites like Trustpilot to see what customers are saying about the bank. You want a bank that's responsive, professional and easy to work with.MethodologyCNET reviews CD rates based on the latest APY information from issuer websites. We evaluated CD rates from more than 50 banks, credit unions and financial companies. We evaluate CDs based on APYs, product offerings, accessibility and customer service.The current banks included in CNET's weekly CD averages include Alliant Credit Union, Ally Bank, American Express National Bank, Barclays, Bask Bank, Bread Savings, Capital One, CFG Bank, CIT, Fulbright, Marcus by Goldman Sachs, MYSB Direct, Quontic, Rising Bank, Synchrony, EverBank, Popular Bank, First Internet Bank of Indiana, America First Federal Credit Union, CommunityWide Federal Credit Union, Discover, Bethpage, BMO Alto, Limelight Bank, First National Bank of America and Connexus Credit Union.*APYs as of Feb. 26, 2025, based on the banks we track at CNET. Earnings are based on APYs and assume interest is compounded annually.More on CDs