Independent News & People Network Desk of News

AI chatbot Grok used to create child sexual abuse imagery, watchdog says

Source: The Guardian - World · Published: 2026-01-08T06:00:04+00:00

Internet Watch Foundation warns Elon Musk-owned AI risks bringing sexualised imagery of children into the mainstreamOnline criminals are claiming to have used Elon Musk’s Grok chatbot to create sexual imagery of children, as a child safety watchdog warned the AI tool risked bringing such material into the mainstream.The UK-based Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) said users of a dark web forum boasted of using Grok Imagine to create sexualised and topless imagery of girls aged between 11 and 13. IWF analysts said the images would be considered child sexual abuse material (CSAM) under UK law. Cont

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Right to protest is under attack in England and Wales, reports warn

Source: The Guardian - World · Published: 2026-01-08T06:00:03+00:00

Human Rights Watch and Justice say recent legislative changes have had a chilling effect and should be repealedThe right to protest is under attack in England and Wales with laws trampling over human rights protections and more oppressive restrictions in the pipeline, two major reports have warned.Both Human Rights Watch and the cross-party law reform organisation Justice say recent legislative changes have created a chilling effect on lawful protest and should be repealed. Their reports, simultaneously published on Thursday, also say that proposals for more curbs should be halted. Continue re

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Supermarkets could help UK shoppers eat more sustainable local fish – study

Source: The Guardian - World · Published: 2026-01-08T06:00:03+00:00

Shift from ‘big 5’ imports to British fish such as sprats and sardines would help diets and the planet, say researchersSupermarkets could help to support British consumers to move away from their reliance on mainly imported seafood – the “big 5” of cod, haddock, tuna, salmon and prawns – to more sustainable, nutritious and locally caught fish such as sardines and anchovies, researchers say.A study by the University of East Anglia (UEA), which confirmed previous research showing consumers did not eat the recommended amount of fish in their diet, suggests the UK could be overlooking a major oppo

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Jewish community ‘frustrated’ with police over handling of Maccabi Tel Aviv fans ban

Source: The Guardian - World · Published: 2026-01-08T06:00:02+00:00

West Midlands police face MPs after barring Israeli football team’s supporters from match against Aston VillaWest Midlands police “did not do themselves any favours” when giving evidence to MPs about a decision to ban Maccabi Tel Aviv fans, a Birmingham Jewish leader has said.The force’s chief constable, Craig Guildford, is facing growing calls from MPs and Jewish groups to resign after further details emerged about the circumstances surrounding a ban on away fans attending the Europa League match against Aston Villa at Villa Park on 6 November. Continue reading...

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Dog food accounts for 1% of UK greenhouse gas emissions, study finds

Source: The Guardian - World · Published: 2026-01-08T06:00:02+00:00

Study of 1,000 products finds wet, raw and meat-free foods have substantially higher climate impact than dry kibbleDog food accounts for 1% of the UK’s total greenhouse gas emissions, according to research that finds wet, raw and meat-rich products are associated with substantially higher emissions than dry kibble.The analysis revealed striking differences in the environmental impact of commercial dog foods, with the highest-impact foods being responsible for up to 65 times more emissions than the lowest-rated options. Continue reading...

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Australia news live: Anthony Albanese announces royal commission into antisemitism and social cohesion in wake of Bondi beach attack

Source: The Guardian - World · Published: 2026-01-08T05:59:42+00:00

Follow today’s news live‘The most dangerous day’: bushfires break out in Victoria as BoM warns of catastrophic conditions to comeGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastAdelaide – a high of 39CCanberra – a high of 38CSydney – a high of 33CDarwin – a high of 32CMelbourne – a high of 31CBrisbane – a high of 29CPerth – a high of 28CHobart – a high of 25CThe NSW government says it has reduced funding uncertainty for domestic and sexual violence support, homelessness services and family programs, through an end to short-term contracts for the community services sector.We’re givin

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PM announces federal royal commission into antisemitism in wake of Bondi beach attack

Source: The Guardian - World · Published: 2026-01-08T05:58:28+00:00

Anthony Albanese backflips after initially resisting demands for a broad national inquiry The prime minister has confirmed his government will call a federal royal commission into the alleged Bondi terror attack, with Anthony Albanese backflipping on an earlier stance against a wide-ranging Commonwealth inquiry.Albanese announced on Thursday the federal commission will examine four key areas, including antisemitism, how law enforcement will respond to antisemitism, the circumstances surrounding the alleged Bondi attack and strengthening social cohesion. Continue reading...

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EN DIRECT, Venezuela : Nicolas Maduro et sa femme blessés lors de l’attaque américaine qui a fait au moins 100 morts, selon Caracas

Source: Le Monde - International · Published: 2026-01-08T05:48:46+00:00

Le président vénézuélien aurait été blessé à la jambe, et son épouse à la tête, lors de leur capture le 3 janvier par l’armée américaine, a déclaré le ministre de l’intérieur vénézuélien. Par ailleurs, Donald Trump a affirmé que le Venezuela n’achètera que des produits américains avec les revenus de son pétrole confisqué par Washington.

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EN DIRECT, Venezuela : l’attaque américaine qui a conduit à l’enlèvement de Nicolas Maduro a fait au moins 100 morts, selon Caracas

Source: Le Monde - International · Published: 2026-01-08T05:48:46+00:00

Le président vénézuélien aurait aussi été blessé à la jambe, et son épouse à la tête, a déclaré le ministre de l’intérieur du pays. Par ailleurs, Donald Trump a affirmé que le Venezuela n’achèterait que des produits américains avec les revenus de son pétrole confisqué par Washington.

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US and Colombian presidents speak – as it happened

Source: The Guardian - World · Published: 2026-01-08T05:45:40+00:00

Trump praises Petro’s ‘tone’ during call and says they will meet soon. This blog is now closedVenezuela to continue supplying oil to US ‘indefinitely’, White House saysMeanwhile, in the UK, Nigel Farage has offered his take on Trump’s plans to control Greenland, saying it would be “outrageous” for the US to seize it from Denmark.Farage says he agrees with Starmer that the fate of Greenland must be decided by Greenland and Denmark, not the US – but sided with Trump on “some genuine security concerns” that require further presence there.“What I will say is this. There are some genuine security c

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Angel One shares gain 2% following Q3 business update

Source: The Hindu Business Line – Markets · Published: 2026-01-08T05:37:27+00:00

The broking firm recorded gross client acquisition of 0.68 million in December 2025, an increase of 12.8% per cent y-o-y

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Zinc futures: Tread with caution

Source: The Hindu Business Line – Markets · Published: 2026-01-08T05:31:49+00:00

The January contract is nearing a key base

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The friendly neighbourhood AI becomes career mentor for job aspirants

Source: The Hindu Business Line – Markets · Published: 2026-01-08T05:31:19+00:00

Almost a third of Gen X job seekers are considering new functions or roles, while 32 per cent of Gen Z candidates are looking for roles outside their current industry

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The last Russia-US nuclear treaty is about to expire. What happens next?

Source: The Hindu Business Line – Markets · Published: 2026-01-08T05:29:50+00:00

The last US-Russia nuclear treaty, New START, is expiring on February 5, and what comes next is uncertain; The two countries, preoccupied by the war in Ukraine, have not held any talks on a successor treaty

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Первый «крот» в ЦРУ: зачем Дэвид Барнетт сотрудничал с КГБ

Source: Vedomosti – All Articles · Published: 2026-01-08T05:21:30+00:00

8 января 1981 г. громкий судебный процесс по делу двойного агента Дэвида Барнетта ожидаемо завершился обвинительным вердиктом. Вся Америка следила за судьбой перебежчика и задавалась вопросом о его мотивах. В 45-летнюю годовщину приговора «Ведомости» вспоминают эту историю.

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PM expected to bow to calls for federal royal commission into Bondi beach attack

Source: The Guardian - World · Published: 2026-01-08T05:18:30+00:00

Anthony Albanese had initially resisted demands for a broad national inquiry into antisemitism, intelligence and law enforcement A federal royal commission in response to the alleged Bondi terror attack is anticipated to be confirmed as early as Thursday afternoon, with Anthony Albanese expected to backflip on an earlier stance against a wide-ranging Commonwealth inquiry.Several sources close to the discussions between the government and Jewish community groups said they expected an announcement around 4.30pm on Thursday in Canberra. Continue reading...

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Australia news live: Anthony Albanese expected to announce royal commission into Bondi beach attack

Source: The Guardian - World · Published: 2026-01-08T05:14:11+00:00

Follow today’s news live‘The most dangerous day’: bushfires break out in Victoria as BoM warns of catastrophic conditions to comeGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastAdelaide – a high of 39CCanberra – a high of 38CSydney – a high of 33CDarwin – a high of 32CMelbourne – a high of 31CBrisbane – a high of 29CPerth – a high of 28CHobart – a high of 25CThe NSW government says it has reduced funding uncertainty for domestic and sexual violence support, homelessness services and family programs, through an end to short-term contracts for the community services sector.We’re givin

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Nagaland Bank Holidays in 2026 - Complete list

Source: The Hindu Business Line – Markets · Published: 2026-01-08T05:05:35+00:00

Check out the detailed state-wise (Nagaland) list of bank holidays in India for 2026 on businessline

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Odisha Bank Holidays in 2026 - Complete list

Source: The Hindu Business Line – Markets · Published: 2026-01-08T05:05:10+00:00

Check out the detailed state-wise (Odisha) list of bank holidays in India for 2026 on businessline

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Puducherry Bank Holidays in 2026 - Complete list

Source: The Hindu Business Line – Markets · Published: 2026-01-08T05:04:42+00:00

Check out the detailed state-wise (Puducherry) list of bank holidays in India for 2026 on businessline

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Gold edges down on firm dollar as investors await key jobs data

Source: The Hindu Business Line – Markets · Published: 2026-01-08T05:04:06+00:00

Spot gold lost 0.3% to $4,440.67 per ounce as of 0344 GMT, dipping from an over one-week high hit in the last session. US gold ​futures for February delivery also fell 0.3% to $4,449.60

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Rogue deep depression threatens Sri Lanka coast

Source: The Hindu Business Line – Markets · Published: 2026-01-08T05:02:14+00:00

Isolated heavy rain forecast for Tamil Nadu in South India; adjoining Kerala too may share gains

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A Majority of Venezuelans Struggle to Pay for Food, Poll Shows

Source: New York Times - World · Published: 2026-01-08T05:01:05+00:00

A new Gallup survey found that more than half of Venezuelans reported struggling to afford food last year, with economic hardship reaching even the wealthy.

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Why Russian Tourists Are Flocking to Southern China’s Beaches

Source: New York Times - World · Published: 2026-01-08T05:00:15+00:00

Russians find a refuge on the beaches of Sanya from sanctions and “sideways looks,” toasting the New Year beside a Chinese nuclear submarine base.

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When It Comes to Russia, Trump Navigates Conflicting Goals

Source: New York Times - World · Published: 2026-01-08T05:00:13+00:00

President Trump’s efforts to court President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia are rife with contradictions about stability and displays of American power.

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Au Niger, comment le stock d’uranium convoité par la Russie s’est retrouvé dans une impasse

Source: Le Monde - International · Published: 2026-01-08T05:00:10+00:00

Un convoi de camions chargés de 1 000 tonnes de concentré d’uranium avait quitté la mine d’Arlit, le 27 novembre. Alors qu’elle devait rejoindre le port de Lomé pour transiter vers un vraquier russe, d’après des sources étatiques françaises, la cargaison demeure bloquée à l’aéroport de Niamey.

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Hoisting Russian Flags, ‘Shadow Fleet’ Edges Into the Light

Source: New York Times - World · Published: 2026-01-08T05:00:07+00:00

The Marinera, which was seized by the U.S., isn’t the only ship from the “shadow fleet” of oil tankers to switch lately to a Russian identity, seeking protection.

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Two weeks on, questions linger over targeting and impact of US airstrikes in Nigeria

Source: The Guardian - World · Published: 2026-01-08T05:00:03+00:00

Very little information has been shared about strikes in Sokoto stateTwo weeks after the US carried out Christmas Day airstrikes in north-west Nigeria on what it described as Islamic State fighters, questions remain over the specific group that was targeted and the operation’s impact.In the aftermath of the strikes, Donald Trump said in a post on his Truth Social platform that “ISIS Terrorist Scum in Northwest Nigeria, who have been targeting and viciously killing, primarily, innocent Christians” were hit with “numerous perfect strikes”. Continue reading...

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EU accused of fuelling Putin’s war by importing Russian liquefied natural gas

Source: The Guardian - World · Published: 2026-01-08T05:00:03+00:00

Despite Brussels’ pledge to ban Russian LNG by 2027, shipments to European ports increased in the last yearEuropean governments have been accused of fuelling Vladimir Putin’s war in Ukraine as new data shows the Kremlin earned an estimated €7.2bn (£6.2bn) last year from exporting its liquefied natural gas (LNG) to the EU.Brussels has pledged to ban imports of Russian LNG – natural gas that is supercooled to make it easier to transport – by 2027 but an analysis suggests there is yet to be any letup in the vast quantities being received at European ports from Russia’s LNG complex on the Yamal pe

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Australia news live: five emergency warnings for out-of-control Victoria bushfires as state prepares for worst fire risk since 2019

Source: The Guardian - World · Published: 2026-01-08T04:51:14+00:00

Follow today’s news live‘The most dangerous day’: bushfires break out in Victoria as BoM warns of catastrophic conditions to comeGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastAdelaide – a high of 39CCanberra – a high of 38CSydney – a high of 33CDarwin – a high of 32CMelbourne – a high of 31CBrisbane – a high of 29CPerth – a high of 28CHobart – a high of 25CThe NSW government says it has reduced funding uncertainty for domestic and sexual violence support, homelessness services and family programs, through an end to short-term contracts for the community services sector.We’re givin

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Two men charged after allegedly scamming $50,000 from elderly women in car parks across NSW

Source: The Guardian - World · Published: 2026-01-08T04:48:19+00:00

Scam allegedly involved one man telling the women there was an issue with their vehicle while the other stole itemsFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastTwo men have been charged after allegedly stealing more than $50,000 by scamming 18 elderly women in shopping centre car parks across New South Wales.NSW police arrested the two men – aged 37 and 57 – on Wednesday after 18 alleged thefts across the state, including in Newcastle, Wagga Wagga and several Sydney suburbs. Continue reading...

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