Latest news with #HavanaSyndrome
Irish Examiner
7 days ago
- Irish Examiner
Podcast Corner: West Cork crew tackle intriguing tale of mystery in Havana
It's been over seven years since the West Cork podcast was first released via Audible. It was subsequently made widely available in 2021 to coincide with Ian Bailey's trial in France, where he was found guilty of the murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier. Made by Sam Bungey and Jennifer Forde, West Cork is one of the best true crime podcast series ever made, right up there with season one of Serial. While subsequent promotion, events, and tie-ins (a deal to adapt it for TV was struck in 2021) took up much of their life since, Bungey and Forde found time to focus on an entirely separate investigation for the series Havana Helmet Club, released via BBC Sounds. Forde, in the opening episode Psychological Fortitude, says: 'A recording of the otherworldly sound was posted on Twitter. At the time, we were on an all-consuming deadline for a podcast about an unsolved murder in West Cork, Ireland.' Bungey continues: 'But we were pulled in by this mystery sound.' Havana Helmet Club explores this otherworldly and mystery sound, which was allegedly experienced by more than 200 victims of 'Havana Syndrome'. In 2016 CIA agents and US diplomats working in Cuba started reporting a sensation of standing in an invisible beam of energy, a throbbing pressure, or being deafened by a screeching noise. They said the experience left them with terrifying after-effects including loss of vision and hearing, vertigo, brain fog and loss of balance. Others, however, believe the syndrome is a myth. Is it just an example of a mass psychogenic illness, a product of hysteria and overactive imaginations? That is what Bungey and Forde seek to uncover. 'We were fascinated by the unsettling nature of Havana Syndrome - how it seems to exist in a space between science, politics, and human perception,' says Forde. 'We've spoken to key figures, whistleblowers, and those directly affected to uncover what might be behind this mystery.' Bungey says: 'Our aim is to present the human stories at the centre of this phenomenon — those who say their lives have been upended, and those who believe this is all an illusion. It's a puzzle that remains unsolved, and we're excited for listeners to join us on this journey.' It's a long way from West Cork to Cuba, and listeners of the former will need to pay close attention to the 10-part series - it's incredibly dense and with its talk of undercover spies at funerals to exploding glasses at dinner parties, is perfect for fans of John Le Carré novels or the podcast The Rest is Classified. Read More Live Aid at 40: Tom Dunne and Irish Examiner readers share their memories
Times
05-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Times
What the makers of the greatest true crime podcast did next
Few podcast series have been as deservedly successful as West Cork. A critical smash and word-of-mouth phenomenon seven years ago, like Serial it dealt with a historic murder, one that still haunts a community. In December 1996 the body of the French film-maker Sophie Toscan du Plantier was discovered outside her Irish holiday home. She had been bludgeoned to death. More than two decades later, nobody had been convicted of her murder. Yet for locals and the Irish garda there had always been one prime suspect, another 'blow-in', an Englishman still living amid neighbours who reviled him. What marked out West Cork was the thoughtfulness of the reporting of its husband-and-wife narrators, Sam Bungey and Jennifer Forde. This was true, twisty crime with journalistic integrity, a painterly sense of place and sensitivity to a community. Louis Theroux said it was 'possibly the best ever true crime podcast'. Patrick Radden Keefe hailed it 'a masterpiece'. It reportedly remains Audible's most successful podcast. If you haven't listened, do. So what have Bungey and Forde got up to since? In May 2021 there was a follow-up episode relating to court proceedings. But that was more than four years ago. It turns out the pair were recruited by the BBC to explore one of the deepest rabbit holes of our times: Havana syndrome. • The best podcasts and radio shows of the week If the term 'Havana syndrome' is a mystery to you, then Forde and Bungey offer a clear explainer in the ten-part Havana Helmet Club (four episodes on BBC Sounds and now airing on Radio 4). But for me the puzzle is why this promising podcasting pair chose to tackle a subject that is as well trodden as it is highly disputed. Still, it is a doozy of a story. To recap: in December 2016 American diplomatic personnel in Cuba began to report a wave of weird ailments. All said that symptoms had begun with stabbing head pressure. Most also experienced a sonic assault: a head-splittingly intense grating noise that often led to nosebleeds and nausea. When sufferers started comparing notes, they referred to the noise as 'the Thing'. In the weeks afterwards many began to experience vertigo, brain fog, migraine with aura and debilitating exhaustion. Quietly the embassy began to fly sufferers to the United States to undergo medical investigation, where scans showed signs consistent with brain trauma when there had been no injury. Meanwhile, the CIA sent a medic to investigate — who also became ill. Rumours grew about some kind of hostile action, possibly using microwave technology. But who would be the perpetrator? The US and Cuba had only just restored full diplomatic relations after decades of hostility. The Obamas' visit in spring 2016 was meant to have ushered in a more neighbourly, also potentially capitalist era. The Cubans denied any wrongdoing, but the US repatriated all but essential staff. Two rival podcasts, fronted by respected investigative journalists, went head-to-head in 2023. Havana Syndrome, from Vice, was presented by Jon Lee Anderson and Adam Entous, whose reporting for The New Yorker first brought this story to a wider audience. Their podcast investigated subsequent claimed incidents around the world and reported on CIA efforts to shut the story down — deemed gaslighting by those still struggling with long-term health needs. • Read more radio and podcast reviews The Sound, presented by Nicky Woolf (Finding Q: My Journey into QAnon; Fur and Loathing) opened in bravura style using spiritual music to invoke the Bible story of the Israelites' trumpets' blast tumbling Jericho's walls. 'Sound … as a weapon,' Woolf surmised. There was also an endearing gonzo episode in which he roped in a physicist pal to help him build a microwave device. So what does the well-narrated Havana Helmet Club have that these do not? Well, the advantage of following up. Also, for UK audiences, potentially arriving fresh at this story, an informative grounding in US-Cuban relations. This compelling podcast is well executed, but halfway through I am questioning whether there will be a smoking gun — most of their talking heads, including the wired-sounding Anglo-American they identify as 'Adam' and 'Patient Zero', have featured in others' reporting. While it is great to have Forde and Bungey back, this is not a podcast series that feels as original, or uniquely their own, as West Cork. What podcasts have you enjoyed recently? Let us know in the comments below
NDTV
05-07-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Can Hackers Take Over Your Brain? Neuroscience Reveals The Disturbing Truth
Neuroscience suggests that while the idea of "hacking" the human brain sounds like sci-fi, emerging brain-computer interface (BCI) technology introduces real vulnerabilities. According to a report by University of Maryland Global Campus, BCIs, whether invasive implants or noninvasive wearable sensors, translate neural signals into digital commands, enabling applications from prosthetic control to gaming. According to a study by Cornell University, security concerns are multifaceted. First, hackers could intercept neural data streams, essentially reading thoughts transmitted from brain to device. Researchers have demonstrated "backdoor" attacks on EEG-based BCIs: tiny perturbations injected into brainwave-analysis algorithms can alter outcomes, from benign coaching tools to critical medical diagnostics. Second, the integrity of neural signals can be compromised, manipulated, or spoofed, potentially influencing emotions, decisions, or behaviour. In extreme cases, implanted deep-brain stimulators (used for Parkinson's) can be hacked to alter brain function directly. Third, neuroprivacy is at stake. Neural data may reveal sensitive medical conditions or private thoughts; unauthorised access would violate what ethicists call "cognitive liberty". According to a report by TIME, while brain transparency isn't imminent, we're quickly moving toward a future where scientists, governments, and corporations could potentially access our thoughts and mental states. In response to this emerging reality, experts emphasize the urgent need to establish the right to 'cognitive liberty' a modern extension of personal freedom. This right would ensure individuals maintain control over their own minds, safeguarding mental privacy, freedom of thought, and autonomy in the digital age. However, widespread "mind control" remains speculative. No verified cases of neuroweapon attacks (such as Havana Syndrome) exist; current BCI systems lack the precision or capability to rewrite memories or override free will, according to UNESCO Courier. In response, the field of neurosecurity is emerging. It applies cybersecurity principles, encryption, secure protocols, and threat models to protect neural devices and safeguard user autonomy. As BCIs advance-from experimental medical tools to consumer wearables-ethical frameworks and robust regulations must evolve alongside them. Ultimately, the brain can be hacked-if connected to machines. But with vigilant security measures and ethical oversight, neuroscience offers hope that our minds remain our own.
The Hill
14-05-2025
- Politics
- The Hill
Trump Repudiates Neocons, ‘Nation Builders'—Celebrates Liberty at Saudi Conference! Robby Soave
Trump Repudiates Neocons, 'Nation Builders'—Celebrates Liberty at Saudi Conference! Robby Soave | RISING Robby Soave delivers radar on President Trump's Saudi Arabia visit where he blasted, 'interventionists,' and, 'new-cons,' in his speech. Trump Says He Will Lift Sanctions On Syria During Saudi Speech | RISING Robby Soave and Lynda Tran discuss President Trump lifting U.S. sanctions on Syria. Schumer Blocking Trump's DOJ Nominees Over Qatari Jet Gift | RISING Robby Soave and Lynda Tran discuss Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) hitting back at President Trump's plan to accept a $400 million jet from Qatar. How Apple's Offshoring Led To China's Economic Rise: Patrick McGee | RISING Author Patrick McGee joins Rising to talk about his new book 'Apple in China: 'The Capture of the World's Greatest Company.' Pope Leo XIV's Brother Louis Prevost Blasted Nancy Pelosi, Joe Biden On Facebook | RISING Robby Soave and Lynda Tran discuss how pope Leo XIV's brother is a MAGA supporter who loves posting memes on social media. Tony Hinchcliffe Praises JD Vance On Bill Maher For defending Him After Puerto Rico Joke | RISING Robby Soave and Lynda Tran react to comedian Tony Hinchcliffe joining Bill Maher's 'Club random' to talk about the joke he made during then-presidential nominee Trump's campaign rally. Catherine Herridge Interview: Feds know More About Havana Syndrome 'Energy Weapons'! | RISING Investigative journalist discusses how the Biden administration tried to cover up, 'Havana Syndrome,' incidents reported in the mid-2010s. Pete Buttigieg Sparks 2028 Rumors, Holds Veterans-Focused Iowa Townhall | RISING Robby Soave and Lynda Tran discuss Pete Buttigieg addressing 2028 presidential speculations at his Iowa town hall.
Yahoo
09-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Gabbard sets up DOGE-style team to weed out ‘weaponization' in national intelligence
U.S. National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard has reportedly set up her own DOGE-like group to cut costs and investigate "weaponization" in the 18 agencies under her authority, according to a new report. Gabbard's Director's Initiatives Group was established in adherence to an executive order signed by President Donald Trump to "bring about transparency and accountability" in the U.S.'s intelligence agencies, according to a press release from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, which was released on Tuesday. 'We are already identifying wasteful spending in real time, streamlining outdated processes, reviewing documents for declassification, and leading ongoing efforts to root out abuses of power and politicization,' the release said. An official familiar with the situation told the Washington Post that the group was made up of 10 people from outside of the intelligence agencies who has been vetted by the White House. The move comes two weeks after Gabbard told Congress that Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency had not pursued layoffs or program cuts in the ODNI. Gabbard's new group appears to be tasked, in part, with carrying out similar cost-cutting actions within the intelligence community. Members of Gabbard's group have apparently been working at the ODNI's headquarters in McLean, Virginia, since February, according to the sources who spoke to the Post. Gabbard and Senator Tom Cotton — who chairs the Senate Intelligence Committee — both said they want to slash costs at the ODNI, which employs approximately 2,000 people. Though cuts may save some money, a significant portion of the $106bn allocated to U.S. spy agencies pay for resources like satellites and other high-end technology, in addition to difficult to cut staff like CIA case officers and analysts. Members of the DIG have reportedly been tasked with also reviewing documents for possible declassification, including information related to the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. investigations into Russia's attempts to influence the 2016 presidential election, and Havana Syndrome, according to the ODNI. At least 100 ODNI workers have opted to take an early resignation deal ahead of the DIG's actions. According to the sources who spoke to the Post, at least 45 intelligence workers have resigned specifically because they fear they won't be able to do their jobs effectively under Gabbard and Trump's leadership. 'They don't believe they can continue to carry out the core mission of keeping the nation safe, under these circumstances,' the source reportedly said. Gabbard has long been a critic of U.S. intelligence agencies, often implying that they were politicized. Her prior comments have reportedly contributed to the exodus of intelligence workers. 'People aren't skeptical of her because she's calling for more efficiency in the structure,' a former official told the Post. 'They're skeptical of her over what positions she has taken over many years now.'
