Recently, there have been numerous reports of online fraud through SMS and email. Scammers impersonate a well-known technology company and prompt users to follow fake links. These links lead to websites requesting personal information. The police urge the public to be cautious and avoid opening links that are not verified. They also recommend using two-factor authentication for added security.
Russian authorities accused Ukraine of attacking a resort center in Zaporizhia, resulting in 11 deaths, including four children. The regional governor stated that Ukrainian forces targeted civilians. Ukraine did not immediately respond to these accusations. Meanwhile, Ukraine reported drone strikes against Russian energy targets. Accusations continue from both sides regarding attacks on military infrastructure.
President Christodoulides and Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis met in Athens to discuss the Cyprus issue. Christodoulides emphasized that their actions have led to international interest in Cyprus. Greece provides support to Cyprus, especially during this critical time. They also mentioned the upcoming visit of the UN Secretary-General to Cyprus next week. The two leaders agreed on the necessity of coordination in the negotiations.
Michalis Hatzigiannis canceled his performance at a well-known beach club due to health issues, causing concern among his fans. The announcement of the cancellation did not provide further details. The scheduled performance was in 18 days, which heightened anxiety. Zeta Makripoulia is by his side during this time. Fans are awaiting further updates on his health condition.
Samsung and other companies are investing in the development of 'smart' glasses that aim to become our main digital screen. These devices could allow for communication, information updates, and interaction with applications, possibly replacing some smartphone functions. The design and technologies have advanced significantly since the failure of Google Glass. Now, processors are more efficient, and 5G provides better connectivity. However, it is crucial to ensure that user privacy is maintained.
Makarios Droushiotis is the main defendant in a case filed at the District Court of Nicosia. He faces 101 charges for offenses such as circulating a forged document and harassment. The offenses stem from complaints by various individuals who were harmed by his publications. The first court appearance is scheduled for September 16. If convicted, he could face a prison sentence of up to seven years.
A revision of the building permit fees is planned for September, with a possible increase in regulations for all categories of developments. Proposals include raising the fee for a residential building permit from about €100 to €400, with the final decision to be made by the Parliament. The Interior Minister considers the increase justified but is not willing to propose a bill for an increase beyond €180. The Licensed Professionals support the increase as necessary due to rising costs and inflation. The Technical Chamber has taken on the role of calculating the fees and simplifying the building permit issuance process.
A new scientific study reveals the critical situation of stray cats in Cyprus, where their population exceeds 2 million. The lack of central planning and the shifting of responsibilities to volunteers contribute to the explosive population growth. Stray cats face high mortality rates, and institutional weaknesses along with insufficient funding complicate their management. The examined welfare framework for companion animals proves to be inadequate and unimplementable. Participants in the study call for better coordinated action from the state.
The illegal placement of feeding stations for game in the Cypriot countryside raises serious concerns for the health of wildlife. This practice, mainly concerning hunters, leads to a false dependence of game and disrupts the natural balance. The feeding stations attract different animal species, facilitating the spread of diseases. Moreover, low-quality feeds can be toxic, posing health risks to animals. This situation could lead to an increase in poaching and natural predators due to the heightened concentration of game.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is visiting Cyprus with the aim of achieving specific outcomes in the talks regarding the Cyprus issue. His personal envoy, Maria Angela Olgin, will meet with President Nikos Christodoulides to prepare for Guterres' visit. Christodoulides is determined to remain faithful to the longstanding positions of the Greek Cypriot side. The principles and the need for positive response from Turkey are critical for the progress of the negotiations. Cyprus hopes for a new conference to restart the negotiations.
The installation of smart traffic lights is in its final stages, aiming to ease traffic congestion in Nicosia and Limassol. These lights will adjust green light timing based on real traffic conditions and will be installed at 125 traffic-controlled intersections. Significant improvements are expected in travel times, reduced fuel consumption, and lower emissions. The implementation of smart traffic lights is linked to strategies for enhancing transportation in Cyprus. The outcome should lead to more efficient traffic flow on the roads.
Candidates who took the Pan-Cyprian Examinations have started submitting their applications to universities in Greece. The deadline for submitting applications is until July 29, 2026. To assist them, the Examination Service has set up a call center staffed with counseling teachers. Candidates are encouraged to choose their preferred schools based on their interests, not just their grades. All information is available on the Examination Service's website.
ELAM is considering potential candidates for the presidential elections of 2028, although no official decisions have been made yet. The party's president, Christos Christou, is expected to be re-elected without challenge since there are no contesting voices within the party. Different opinions exist within ELAM regarding the support for candidates, with a commitment not to back any candidate endorsed by AKEL. The internal party elections are anticipated to begin in September. The upcoming moves will determine the party's strategy for the presidential elections.