The dangerous rise of AI beauty rankings

Cyber Security expert, Rebekah Nijsen, discusses “Omoggle”, the app where AI judges users by their appearance.

What is Omoggle?

“It is a web-based live video chat that pairs 2 random users from across the world via webcam. So that’s the first aspect of it. ‘Omoggle‘ comes from a slang term for ‘look maxing’, which is the online culture that determines that a physical dominance over a person on their physical appearance.”

AI Determines the Score

Through this platform, users battle each other over how others rate their physical appearance. They use AI for facial analysis and determine a score.

“It looks at things like eye lift, jawline, skin tones, aspects like that. This only takes a few seconds and then a score is introduced. Now the winner is known as the ‘Mogger’ and the loser is known as ‘Mogged’ and that comes from the term mogging which comes through the lookmaxing culture.”

Viral Battles of Looksmaxxing

These battles are now going viral via live streaming platforms, like “Twitch” and “Kick”, so wider audiences now watch these battles.

“The people who jump on and have a look at these battles have the ability to encourage users or mock losers, which creates a pack mentality.”

This has the power to cause psychological triggers in young people, based on what AI is rating them. People as young as 12 are falling prey to shallow comparison and mockery.

“It’s web-based, which means you have internet connection and you have a webcam, then anyone can access it. It is an 18+ site, but all you have to do is click ‘yes, I’m over 18’ and you’re straight in. There’s no further age verification checks.”

“‘Twitch’ and ‘Kick’ are age restricted platforms under cyber-security legislation. However, ‘Omoggle’ is not.”

Parents – Start a Conversation

Rebekah said that parents need to have open conversations and chats with their children about physical appearances.

“Ask, ‘What do you think about physical appearance allowing you to have status in the online world. What do you like about yourself?”

Helping children to understand character being more valuable than status can help them with their self-esteem.

“We can do that in our conversations, but also by modelling that behaviour ourselves,” said Rebekah.

“Are they seeing that our most important thing is, putting our face on for the day and putting, makeup? Those things aren’t bad things. Absolutely not. I wear makeup.”

She argued to that end, if parents are so obsessed with health, eating and appearance, it can get noticed and imitated. Conversations and behaviour modelled at home enables them to have a healthier lens on how they view the world.

Know What Your Kids Are Viewing

Rebekah said the most important advice for parents to take heed of is to know what our kids are watching.

“We do that by physically seeing what they’re doing and making sure the devices are outside the bedrooms so we can actually see how they’re interacting online, but also by having those continual conversations with them and saying, ‘What did you see online today? Or, hey, I’ve seen this new craze come through. What are your opinions about it?’”

She argued that many kids would be outraged about it, because our kids are very switched on.

“We’re starting to see a switch with our kids starting to be a bit more empathetic and realizing, hey, we can be part of the solution here by calling out this behaviour.”

Encourage Their Opinion

Rebekah said this needs to be encouraged and fostered in the home so that kids feel like they have a voice.

“If we can actually say, ‘What you say is important and we’re going to give you a platform in the house to have an opinion,’ whether we agree with it or not. Hopefully that then teaches them that their voice matters. And then they can then start being the positive influence.”

Rebekah said there will always be a new app invented, hopefully with more conditions, but if parents look at the fundamentals of culture and what we are allowing our kids to view, we can then teach them to be critical in what they see as well.

Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine.

Feature image: Canva

Manage some of the mental load with tools that save time instead of wasting it.

Do you feel like your brain never really switches off? Even when you’re resting, there’s a background list running: Appointments, school notes, meals, birthdays, work deadlines, emotional check-ins and all the tiny things no-one else sees.

Most mums don’t need more productivity hacks; they need less thinking, fewer decisions and a bit more breathing room. You don’t need more apps, more systems or more things to “learn”. What you need is help, the kind that actually takes something off your plate.

That’s where AI tools can quietly step in. There are a lot of AI models that can make things feel a tiny bit easier. Not in a futuristic, robot way, but in a “thank goodness I don’t have to think about this tonight” way. Used well, it becomes less about technology and more like an assistant sitting beside you while you juggle kids, work, school messages and the constant background noise of life.

When used simply, AI becomes a quiet support, like a calm AI assistant that helps you organise thoughts, draft things faster and take some of the mental load off your shoulders.

A second brain for the mental load

One of the most draining parts of motherhood is carrying everything in your head. Planning is invisible work and it adds up fast. AI assistants work like a second brain you can check in with at any time.

Instead of opening multiple tabs, doing a frantic Google search or scrolling through search engines, you can ask an AI chatbot one clear question and get a usable answer in real time. You can ask it to help you make a weekly plan, organise routines or break overwhelming tasks into small action items.

This isn’t about perfection. It’s about getting unstuck faster and moving on with your day.

“What’s for dinner?” without the spiral

Meal planning is one of those daily decisions that quietly drains energy. AI tools are especially good at this kind of practical, everyday content creation.

Mums often use generative AI tools to:

• Create a simple weekly meal plan
• Suggest dinners using ingredients already in the fridge
• Adjust meals for kids, allergies or budget
• Generate a grocery list you can copy straight into notes

While AI doesn’t replace a nutritionist or pediatrician, it can be helpful for planning ideas for meals, especially when you don’t want to feed the kids another Vegemite sandwich.

Help with school admin and all the boring stuff

AI is also incredibly useful for the small admin tasks that pile up. Need to reply to a teacher, write a permission note or draft an email that sounds calm when you’re anything but? An AI assistant can help you put words together quickly.

This is especially helpful inside tools you already use, like Google Docs or your email. Instead of staring at a blank page, you can ask AI to draft something, then tweak it so it sounds like you.

AI tools can also help with creative tasks when your energy is stretched thin. Need ideas for birthday parties, school projects or family activities? Want help creating simple images or AI-generated images for invitations or presentations? Many tools now include image generation alongside writing support.

Here are some AI prompts you may want to use:

• Write a short, polite email to my child’s teacher explaining that my Year 3 son, [Name], will be absent on [insert date] due to illness. Keep it warm, clear and under 120 words.
• Summarise this school newsletter in five bullet points focusing only on dates, money due and action items for parents.
• Explain this homework instruction in simple language for a tired parent and a nine-year-old: [paste the instruction].

At the end of the day, when you’re tired and needing a little break, AI can help smooth the workflow.

Support for working mums and side hustles

For mums juggling paid work, freelancing or managing a small business, AI can save hours each month. It can help outline ideas, polish writing and organise thoughts without needing long stretches of focus.

Some mums use AI to plan social media content, write social posts, summaries, product descriptions or landing pages, or brainstorm ideas for projects. Others use it to summarise documents, prepare talking points or structure work so it fits around family life. You stay in control; the tool just gets you started.

Most of this is available on a free version or free trial. Paid plans usually unlock advanced features, priority support or early access to new features, but they’re optional. The basic features are often more than enough.

Here are some AI prompts you may want to use:

• For planning social media content: “Create a simple weekly content plan for my small business Instagram account. I sell [product/service] and I post three times a week. Include post ideas and short caption starters.”
• For product descriptions: “Write a clear, friendly product description for [product], aimed at busy mums. Keep it under 150 words and focus on benefits, not just features.”
• For social media posts: “Write three Instagram captions to promote my [product/service] that sound warm, relatable and not salesy. Include a simple call-to-action at the end.”

Emotional support (without judgement)

This part surprises a lot of mums. Sometimes you just want to think things through, process and ruminate about things without saying them out loud. AI can offer a space to think through emotions, rehearse conversations or process decisions without pressure.

It’s important to remember AI works like social media: It learns what you like, favour or engage with repeatedly, then shows you more of the same. AI is designed to please you, so should not replace a professional, especially when it comes to mental health support. However, it can help in the moment, especially late at night when everyone else is asleep and your brain won’t switch off.

AI is a type of echo chamber, which isn’t something you want for real-world critical thinking skills. It is best used as a tool, but not as a replacement for real people, real connection and real mental processing.

Free versus paid: What you actually need

There are so many free AI tools, most mums start with a free plan and many stay there. Free plans usually come with a limited number of uses per month, but for everyday tasks, that’s often plenty. If you do lots of writing or need extended research capabilities, you can use the premium versions of apps like Grammarly or Perplexity.

Paid plans may include premium features, custom pricing or extra capacity for businesses and students, but they’re not required to get real value. The goal isn’t to use AI constantly, it’s to use it when it helps. You still want your original creativity and flow, which doesn’t rely on AI, using it rather as a help than a micro-managing boss.

Using AI in a way that feels right

AI should support your life, not take it over. You don’t need early access, every update or every new feature. You don’t need to understand how artificial intelligence works behind the scenes.

The best approach is simple:

• Use AI to reduce mental load
• Keep decision-making in your hands
• Ignore features you don’t need
• Stop using a tool if it adds stress

AI works best when it’s quiet, optional and flexible.

Many modern AI tools are designed to feel intuitive, allowing mums to interact using natural language rather than learning complicated systems. You can start with simple text prompts, ask follow-up questions to refine answers and quickly pull out the key points you actually need.

The AI tools mums are using

Here is a list of the more common tools mums love:

• Gemini or Claude: Conversational AI that answers questions, drafts text, brainstorms ideas and helps you plan or organise things using simple prompts.
• Canva: Design tool with built-in AI features that can generate images, suggest layouts, write short text and quickly resize or repurpose designs for different platforms.
• Grammarly: Writing assistant with AI that checks spelling and grammar, suggests clearer wording, adjusts tone (more formal or casual), and can generate or expand short pieces of text.
• Perplexity: AI search assistant that looks up information online, then gives short, sourced summaries so you can get key points without deep-diving into every article.

These tools offer free and paid options and can be helpful time-savers for admin, research, drafting emails, study and creating images for social media.

The bottom line

You probably aren’t going to use all the AI features like voice cloning, image generation or deep integration across your entire Google workspace and that’s perfectly fine. Maybe what you really want is a simple cheat sheet for cleaning the house, a weekly list of appointments or a few ideas for fun things to do during the school holidays.

There’s a wide range of options, but you can pick and choose what actually helps you and your family, giving you a little more breathing room. Most of us will never need the pro plan and some of us aren’t fans of AI mode on Google (me included), but you’ll find yourself happily using text prompts and follow-up questions to get exactly what you need.

With the right approach, even just a few of these tools can make your day feel a lot smoother, letting you focus on what really matters.

AI doesn’t make you a better mum. It doesn’t replace intuition, care or connection. It doesn’t replace a doctor or a teacher. What it can do is help you think more clearly, plan faster and carry less in your head. Used gently, the best AI tools feel less like technology and more like support; there when you need it, invisible when you don’t.

In the middle of everything you’re already doing, it can help to have everything in one place, giving your mind a break when you hit the pillow at night.

Article supplied with thanks to Mum’s At The Table

About the Author: Adriana is Mums At The Table’s part-time digital content creator and writes from Kingscliff, Queensland.

Feature image: Canva

“Why can’t my child sit still anymore?”

If you’ve ever watched your child bounce between apps, skip through YouTube videos after five seconds, or struggle to finish a simple homework task, you’re not alone.

Many parents and teachers are noticing it:
Kids today seem more distracted.
More restless.
More easily bored.

So what’s going on?

While attention challenges like ADHD are better understood and more widely diagnosed today, there’s growing concern that our digital lifestyles, especially early and frequent screen exposure, may be reshaping the way young brains focus, engage, and process information.

Let’s explore what the research says.

What Is “Attention Span” Anyway?

Attention span refers to how long someone can focus on a task without becoming distracted. It’s a key part of learning, memory, emotional regulation, and problem-solving.

For children, attention develops with age. But in the digital era, something has shifted.

What the Research Is Showing

1. Heavy screen use is linked to reduced attention

A 2018 study published in JAMA tracked more than 2,500 adolescents over two years. It found that teens who used multiple forms of digital media (e.g. texting, streaming, gaming) several times a day were significantly more likely to develop symptoms of attention disorders.

This isn’t just about the amount of screen time, but the type of content consumed and the pace at which it moves.

“Our brains are not wired to process rapid-fire shifts in attention constantly,” explains Dr. Michael Rich, pediatrician and director of the Digital Wellness Lab at Boston Children’s Hospital.

2. Fast-paced media may be rewiring young brains

Apps like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts are designed to deliver instant gratification, dopamine hits from quick, high-stimulation content. Over time, this can make slower-paced tasks (like reading, writing, or listening in class) feel unbearably boring by comparison.

This contributes to something called attention fragmentation, where a child’s ability to sustain focus is compromised because they’ve adapted to jump from stimulus to stimulus.

3. Children’s attention spans are shrinking, but the full picture is complex

A study from Microsoft once claimed that the human attention span had shrunk to 8 seconds (shorter than a goldfish). But this stat has since been debated and criticized for oversimplifying a complex issue.

What’s more accurate is this: Kids are becoming more selective in what they pay attention to.
They can focus for long stretches, on things that offer novelty, fast feedback, or intense engagement (like video games). The challenge lies in sustaining attention on non-stimulating, non-rewarding tasks.

So… Is Technology to Blame?

Partially.

Technology isn’t the enemy. In fact, it can support learning, creativity, and connection when used wisely. But the way it’s designed, and the amount of exposure, can condition children to expect:

• Constant stimulation
• Immediate rewards
• Zero boredom

And when real life doesn’t deliver those things? Their attention disengages.

Signs Your Child May Be Struggling With Attention (Tech-Related)

• Constant need for stimulation or background noise
• Struggles to finish homework or reading without distractions
• Frequently switches between apps, tabs, or tasks
• Meltdowns or irritability when screens are removed
• Decreased ability to play imaginatively or independently

What Parents Can Do

You don’t need to ban screens. But you do need to create boundaries and balance.

1. Designate slow time every day

Encourage activities that require sustained attention: puzzles, reading, drawing, unstructured outdoor play. Start small- 10 minutes of uninterrupted focus is a win.

2. Delay exposure to fast-paced media

For younger children, limit short-form content (like TikTok, YouTube Shorts) that trains the brain to expect instant hits of stimulation.

3. Practice tech-free transitions

Build in buffer time between screen time and tasks like schoolwork, bedtime, or meals to help the brain recalibrate.

4. Model digital mindfulness

Your habits matter. If you’re checking your phone every 30 seconds, your child is watching and learning.

5. Use screens with purpose, not passively

Ask: Is this content helping my child learn, connect, or create? Or is it just numbing boredom?

Our children’s attention spans are being shaped, by their environment, their routines, and yes, their screens. But also by the presence, patience, and structure we offer as parents.

Technology isn’t going away. But neither is the power of boredom, imagination, or a story told without a screen.

The goal isn’t to eliminate technology. It’s to make sure it doesn’t replace the experiences that help our kids grow, think deeply, and pay attention to the world and people around them.

Article supplied with thanks to Sabrina Peters.

About the Author: Sabrina is a pastor and a psychologist who is dedicated to helping people experience wholeness and growth. Passionate about building healthy families, she spends her days raising kids, supporting clients, and creating resources that inspire freedom and hope.

Feature image: Canva

What’s the real cost when screen time is taking over at home?

Screens are everywhere. From high-definition television to the constant, dopamine-driven pull of mobile devices, digital technology has become woven into everyday life. But as excessive screen time continues to rise, an important question remains. How much is too much?

Brad Huddleston is an internationally respected speaker, consultant, teacher, and author on technology and culture. Brad challenges us to think honestly about our relationship with technology, not just as individuals, but as families seeking to live with wisdom and intention.

While screens can be useful tools, Brad warns that excessive screen time can quietly shape behaviours, attitudes and even our spiritual health in ways we may not immediately notice.

When Does Screen Time Become Excessive for Families?

One of the greatest challenges with screen use is defining when it crosses the line from normal to excessive. Like any form of addiction, denial often clouds self-awareness.

Very few people who are overly attached to their screens would describe themselves as addicted. Instead, usage is often minimised, justified or laughed off. Yet those around them can clearly see when digital habits have become unhealthy in the home.

This disconnect can be confronting, especially for parents. It rarely takes long for screens to become excessive, particularly for children. In many cases, the mesmerisation begins the moment their little eyes lock onto the screen.

“The glow of the screen appeals to children like a moth to a candle,” he explains.

The attraction is undeniably powerful. Bright colours, constant movement and endless stimulation draw children in quickly. Over time, prolonged exposure can begin to change behaviour and personality, often in ways that are not positive.

Children Aren’t the Only Ones Struggling

While much attention is placed on children and screen limits, there’s a deeper issue many families overlook. Adults are often just as attached to their devices as their kids.

Smartphones, social media, and constant connectivity have created layers of digital dependence within the home. Parents may set rules for their children while quietly modelling the same digital habits at home that they are trying to limit.

Brad encourages parents to pause and ask an honest question. Are we willing to be truthful about our own screen use?

This kind of self-reflection is not about guilt or blame. It is about recognising that children learn more from what they observe than from what they are told. A household shaped by constant screen engagement can unintentionally normalise distraction, impatience and emotional distance.

The Spiritual Cost of Constant Connection

From a biblical perspective, unchecked screen time raises important questions about attention, presence and discipleship, specifically within the home. Scripture repeatedly calls believers to be alert, self-controlled and intentional about how they live.

When screens dominate our time, they can crowd out stillness, prayer and meaningful connection. For families, screen addiction can overtake opportunities for discipline and intentional time together.

Moments once used for conversation, reflection or rest are easily filled with scrolling and streaming.

Recognising excessive screen time isn’t about shame or pointing fingers. Instead, it is a call to awareness for believers. Technology is a tool, but when it begins to control our thoughts, emotions or relationships within the home, it may be time to reassess its place in our lives.

Why Honest Self-Assessment Matters

Real change begins when we are willing to look clearly at our habits without defensiveness.

In many homes, conversations about screen time focus on rules rather than roots.

The deeper issue isn’t just how long we are on screens, but why. Are screens being used to escape stress, avoid conflict or fill emotional gaps?

Scripture invites believers to live in the light, not hiding from uncomfortable truths. Bringing screen habits into the open allows families to make thoughtful, God-honouring choices together.

Creating Healthier Digital Boundaries at Home

Healthy screen habits do not start with strict limits alone. They begin with shared values and intentional rhythms.

Families may choose to create screen-free spaces, such as during meals or before bed. Others may set aside specific times for conversation, prayer or reading Scripture together. These practices help recentre attention on what truly matters.

Technology should serve the family, not replace connection within it. When screens are placed in their proper role, they can be enjoyed without dominating daily life.

Choosing Wisdom in a Digital Age

Living faithfully in a digital world requires discernment. Screens are not inherently harmful, but without boundaries, excessive screen time can subtly shape hearts, habits and homes.

Brad’s challenge is simple but profound. Be honest. Be intentional. And be willing to lead by example.

As believers, every area of life, including our use of technology, is an opportunity to reflect wisdom, self-control and love for others. When we choose presence over distraction, we create space for deeper relationships and a stronger spiritual foundation.

Article supplied with thanks to Vision – a non-profit, follower-funded Christian media ministry taking God’s Word to every corner of Australia and beyond through broadcast, online and print media.

Feature image: Canva

In a world where disasters like bushfires, floods and storms can escalate quickly, timely warnings are vital. The Australian Government is rolling out a new national emergency alert system called AusAlert.

AusAlert uses modern cell broadcast technology to send emergency notifications straight to mobile phones, bypassing traditional text messages that can be slowed by network congestion.

Instead of SMS, AusAlert will deliver messages tailored to a very specific location, to within 160 metres — sometimes to as little as a single street or building — so people in harm’s way can be warned quickly and accurately. That’s a big step forward from the older system, which could struggle to get messages to everyone on time during major emergencies.

The system will alert for a range of serious events including natural hazards like bushfires, floods and cyclones, public safety threats, biosecurity risks and health emergencies.

The trial and how the rollout will work

Before AusAlert becomes fully operational, the Government is conducting phased testing to make sure it works smoothly. 

Here’s what’s planned:

June 2026 – Community Trials

In June, a series of smaller tests will be conducted in a range of urban, regional and remote areas across the country. These trials are designed to check the technology in real-world settings and to build community familiarity with what the alerts look and sound like. Locations include:

• Liverpool, NSW
• Port Douglas, QLD
• Majura, ACT
• Launceston, TAS
• Geelong, VIC
• Tennant Creek, NT
• Goomalling, WA
• Port Lincoln, SA
• Queanbeyan, NSW (cross border test) 

27 July 2026 – National Test

Everyone with a compatible phone across Australia will receive a nationwide test alert at 2pm AEST on Monday 27 July 2026. This is a big moment for awareness and checking that the system can reach as many devices as possible.

October 2026 – Operational Launch

The Government aims for AusAlert to be fully operational by October 2026, just ahead of the 2026–27 high-risk weather season.

What Australians can expect

AusAlert messages are designed to stand out:

• They will appear on your phone screen even if it’s locked, on silent or in Do Not Disturb mode.
• They use a distinct sound and vibration for the most urgent alerts.
• Alerts can include information about what is happening, where it is, how severe it is and what action to take, along with a link to more details.

There are two types of alerts:

• Critical alerts: For immediate threats to life and property. These have a fixed volume and cannot be disabled.
• Priority alerts: Less intrusive messages that you can opt out of.

About 90 per cent of phones in Australia are expected to be compatible, especially models from recent years.

What you should do if you receive an alert

If you get an AusAlert message:

1. Read it carefully before dismissing it. Alerts provide specific actions you should take.
2. Follow official guidance, whether it’s to evacuate, seek shelter, or stay informed through emergency services.
3. If you’re unsure what the alert means, check state or territory emergency services websites or official social channels for updates.

Remember: these messages are there to help you make safe choices quickly.

Sharing the news and helping others

This is a new system, and not everyone will understand it immediately. Here are ways your community can support one another:

Helping older generations

• Explain that AusAlert is not spam or a virus: it’s an official emergency system.
• Show how alerts might look and sound on everyday phones.
• Remind them not to ignore it, even if it’s loud or catches them by surprise.

Talking with teenagers and young adults

• Most teens already use smartphones regularly, so focus on why the alerts matter.
• Encourage them to share accurate info with family and friends on social media or group chats.

Provide feedback

The Government will be seeking feedback as the system rolls out. 

Engaging with local emergency services and participating in community trial feedback helps improve AusAlert before it becomes fully operational.

Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the community testing and national test are significant milestones for AusAlert. 

“The Albanese Government is undertaking these tests to ensure the technology performs as expected, and to build community awareness before AusAlert is needed in an actual emergency,” Ms McBain said.

“This is an important project that will help us and emergency services organisations warn people when they are in harm’s way, saving lives and protecting property during a disaster, delivering on a key finding from the Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements. 

“This is a major development in Australia’s emergency communication landscape, and I thank Australians in advance for their cooperation as we move into the launch phase for AusAlert ahead of the next high risk weather season.”

This article was prepared with AI assistance and then carefully reviewed, fact-checked, and edited by the Hope 103.2 Digital Team.

Article supplied with thanks to Christian Media & Arts Australia.

About the author: Kim is a media and communications professional who specialises in building community and valuable relationships.

Feature image: Canva

Australia is facing what many describe as a loneliness epidemic, with a third of us reportedly feeling lonely and one in four of us experiencing chronic, severe loneliness.

Psychologist Rachel Harker, founder of dating app Tribal and its friendship offshoot Connect by Tribal, wanted to do something that addresses the widespread social disconnection.

“Loneliness does not just affect singles, it affects everyone,” Rachel said.

“Parents, professionals, retirees – all of us are vulnerable to feeling disconnected.”

We know technology is one of the biggest drivers of loneliness, but so too is our reduced ability to be linked in to in-person communities.

“Everyone is behind a screen for a large portion of the day,” Rachel said.

“And [the way] modern society runs is very individualistic.

“We don’t have that community vibe like we used to.”

Rather than rejecting technology altogether, Rachel’s approach is to reshape it.

“I took a step back and said, ‘how can we embrace technology because it’s where the world is going’, but use it in a much more positive way?” Rachel said.

That vision led to Connect by Tribal, a values-based friendship app that “matches” friends based on those values to encourage deeper and more lasting connections.

“We can have really different personalities, but if we’ve got that core aligned value, that’s the key,” Rachel said.

The app’s designed to help those friendships to translate into face-to-face spaces through its “community circles”.

“The [community circles] is a group chat feature where you can connect with users based on aligned interest or groups,” Rachel said.

“If you’re new to town, new parent, a pet lover, a foodie, you can connect and chat about that interest topic in particular.

“So it goes beyond just one-on-one conversations.”

Rachel hope for Australian’s feeling isolated is that her platform will provide safe, meaningful ways for people to find friendship and belonging.

“Swiping on a photo for a friend just didn’t sit well with me,” Rachel said.

“It doesn’t matter what our friends look like. True friendship is about personality and aligned interests.”

Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.

Feature image: Canva

While there’s no confirmed mass breach of Gmail itself, Australians should still be alert.

Media reports have flagged a huge trove of stolen credentials – according to one estimate, more than 183 million email passwords (including “tens of millions” tied to Gmail addresses) were exposed in a malware-driven credential dump.

Cyber-criminals use exposed credentials for account take-over, identity theft, phishing, and to target older family members who may have simpler or reused passwords

What’s Happened

The New York Post reported that Australian security researcher Troy Hunt flagged a dataset built from infostealer malware: credentials such as usernames, passwords and website addresses siphoned from infected devices, not from a direct hack of Google or Gmail.

Earlier this year researchers also uncovered a massive leak of 16 billion login credentials (across many services including Google, Apple and Facebook) compiled from multiple smaller incidents or malware infections.

Google’s Official Statement

“Gmail’s protections are strong and effective, and claims of a major Gmail security warning are false,” the statement reads.

“We want to reassure our users that Gmail’s protections are strong and effective. Several inaccurate claims surfaced recently that incorrectly stated that we issued a broad warning to all Gmail users about a major Gmail security issue. This is entirely false.

“While it’s always the case that phishers are looking for ways to infiltrate inboxes, our protections continue to block more than 99.9% of phishing and malware attempts from reaching users.

“Security is such an important item for all companies, all customers, all users – we take this work incredibly seriously. Our teams invest heavily, innovate constantly, and communicate clearly about the risks and protections we have in place. It’s crucial that conversation in this space is accurate and factual.

“As best practices for additional protection, we encourage users to use a secure password alternative like Passkeys, and to follow these best practices to spot and report phishing attacks.”

What You Should Do Right Now

Here’s a checklist you can follow – as well as help parents or grandparents follow.

1. Check if your email has been exposed

Go to the free service Have I Been Pwned and enter your Gmail and other email addresses. It will show if they have appeared in known leaks.

2. Change and strengthen your passwords

• Use a unique password for your Gmail account (and all major services). Never reuse it elsewhere.
• Make it long, include upper- and lower-case letters, numbers and symbols.
• Consider a trusted password manager if you struggle to remember.

3. Enable two-factor (or multi-factor) authentication (2FA/MFA)

This adds a second step (code, device prompt or security key) when logging in. Many reports show credentials stolen from device malware still allow access unless 2FA is turned on.

4. Update recovery details and review account access

Check that your recovery email and phone number are current. In Gmail go to Security – Your devices & recent activity. Look for anything unfamiliar.

5. Be alert to phishing and vishing (voice-phishing)

Criminals are now using data (even basic business or contact data) to craft realistic scams: phone calls impersonating tech support, spoofed numbers, fake “account breach” alerts. Google warns it will not phone you out of the blue to ask for your password.

Helping Older Family Members

• Sit with them and check their account exposure together using Have I Been Pwned.
• Go through their password list (or password manager) and identify if they’ve reused passwords or kept simple ones like “123456”.
• Show them how to enable 2FA on their Gmail/Apple/other major accounts.
• Warn them of the “I’m calling from tech support” trick – tell them never to give passwords or codes to anyone who rings claiming to be from Google/Apple/your bank.
• Remove old apps they no longer use and ensure their device software (phone, tablet, computer) is up to date with security patches.

Think of your digital identity like your home front door key

Even though Google says there’s no broad Gmail breach, the credential-dump risk is very real for Australians. If your email or password turns up in a database, or insecure habits are in play (weak/reused passwords, no 2FA), you’re exposed. Think of your digital identity like a front door key: strong, unique keys plus a dead-bolt (2FA) make all the difference.

Stay safe online.

This article was prepared with AI assistance and carefully reviewed by the Hope 103.2 Digital team.

Article supplied with thanks to Hope 103.2

Feature image: Canva

Since the dawn of time, humans have told stories – painted on cave walls, passed down around campfires, written in books, performed on stage, brought to life on film, and now shared instantly through our screens. But why do we tell stories?

Because stories connect us. They are the threads that weave together meaning, memory, and shared experience. They make ideas stick, bring data to life, and inspire action.

Storytelling transforms how we connect with audiences, whether they’re clients, colleagues, or communities. In the digital era, where attention spans are short and information is everywhere, the ability to tell a story well has never been more important.

Why Stories Matter

Stories are one of the most powerful tools we have as humans, because our brains are wired for narrative. They don’t just inform us, they move us. When you hear a story, your brain releases chemicals like dopamine, oxytocin, and cortisol, which help you feel engaged, connected, and emotionally invested.

Stories connect us and stick in our minds more than just facts alone. Why? Because stories create context. They answer the question, why does this matter?

In business, this means a spreadsheet of numbers is only half the picture. When you weave those numbers into a story, showing the people behind the data, the challenges they face, the changes over time, you turn statistics into meaning. And meaning inspires action.

The Ingredients of a Great Story

Great storytelling doesn’t happen by accident. It starts with knowing your audience – understanding what they care about, what challenges they face, and what opportunities inspire them. When you know your audience, you can choose stories that connect on an emotional and practical level.

From there, structure matters. Stories have a natural rhythm: a beginning that sets the scene, a middle where tension or conflict emerges, and an ending that brings resolution or insight. Without that arc, stories can feel flat or incomplete.

Contrast is another powerful device – showing before and after, problem and solution, or old versus new ways of doing things. Contrast creates stakes, which keeps people interested.

And when it comes to storytelling in business, blend data and narrative. Data gives credibility; stories give heart. Together, they’re more powerful than either alone. And in the digital age, visual storytelling plays an important role too – using imagery, infographics, and metaphor to make abstract ideas tangible.

Finally, delivery matters. The way you pause, change your tone, or emphasise key phrases can turn a good story into a memorable one.

Storytelling in a Digital Age

Technology has changed how stories are shared, but not why they matter. We live in an era where attention spans are shorter, content is consumed on the go, and competition for attention is fierce. In this environment, stories cut through the noise because they engage both head and heart.

Digital platforms also give us new tools to tell stories – from immersive videos and interactive infographics to podcasts and live streaming. But it’s worth remembering: no amount of technology can save a story that doesn’t have a clear message or emotional pull. The fundamentals matter as much as ever.

When Crafting a Digital Story, Think About:

Format: Will this work best as a video, a carousel, an infographic, or audio?

Length: Can I capture attention quickly and keep the pace engaging?

Visuals: Does the imagery add meaning or emotion?

Interactivity: Can I invite the audience to comment, vote, or share their own experience?

Why this Matters for Leaders and Teams

Whether you’re leading a team, pitching to clients, or communicating research findings, storytelling is an essential skill. Leaders who tell stories create shared understanding, inspire trust, and make their vision tangible.

For teams, stories help people see how their work fits into a bigger picture. They can foster a sense of purpose and belonging, which is especially important in hybrid or remote workplaces where connection can feel harder to build.

And when it comes to data storytelling – the world we spend much of our time in – the ability to frame numbers in a way that resonates is what turns insights into impact.

This means that storytelling isn’t just a nice-to-have skill; it’s a competitive advantage. In a digital era saturated with information, the voices that stand out are those that connect emotionally, communicate clearly, and leave a lasting impression.

Article supplied with thanks to McCrindle.

About the Author: McCrindle are a team of researchers and communications specialists who discover insights, and tell the story of Australians – what we do, and who we are.

Feature image: Canva

Think back a decade. Your shelves were likely lined with DVDs, your car’s glovebox full of CDs, and buying software meant purchasing a physical box with a disc inside. Today, that world feels distant.

In its place is a new ecosystem built not on one-off purchases, but on ongoing access. From the entertainment we stream (Netflix, Spotify, Audible) and the news we read, we’ve seen the rise in the subscription economy, and it represents one of the most significant shifts in consumer behaviour and business strategy in the 21st century. In 2008, Spotify didn’t exist. Fast forward to 2025 and there are 696 million monthly active users.

This is more than a trend – it’s a fundamental change in the relationship between a provider and a consumer. The traditional, transactional model of selling a product has been replaced by a relational model built on ongoing value, and convenience. There has, however, been a shift in the sense of what ownership means. While consumers have unlimited access, they own less.

Understanding consumer sentiment behind this reveals insights on what modern consumers value – flexibility over commitment, experiences over possessions, and seamless integration into their lives.

Divided sentiment across generations

As digital natives, younger generations are the most enthusiastic adopters of subscription services. Almost half of Gen Z (48%) say they love or like subscriptions, compared to just 12% of Baby Boomers. Yet despite being less enthusiastic, older generations are still active users. More than four in five Gen X (83%) and two in three Baby Boomers (66%) hold at least one subscription. In contrast, subscriptions are near-universal among younger cohorts, with almost all of Gen Z (99%) and the vast majority of Gen Y (85%) signed up to at least one.

What are people subscribing to?

The most common subscription service to use across the generations is video streaming, followed by audio streaming. Gaming services are also common among Gen Z, Gen Y and Gen X, however publications are the next most popular service for Baby Boomers.

What drives the use of subscription services?

Almost half of Australians (45%) choose subscriptions for their convenience. Similarly, more than half of Australians who use subscriptions (54%) strongly or somewhat agree that subscriptions save them time and effort. The decision is also influenced by value for money and access to exclusive content.

Organisations that succeed in the subscription economy understand a key tension: consumers want the convenience of subscriptions but also fear being trapped. While younger generations are more likely to subscribe, they also desire agency, customisation, and personalisation. To build a lasting relationship with these customers, businesses must put them at the centre of their product, providing a constant stream of new content and a clear sense of value that not only justifies the ongoing cost, but empowers them with choice.

Article supplied with thanks to McCrindle.

About the Author: McCrindle are a team of researchers and communications specialists who discover insights, and tell the story of Australians – what we do, and who we are.

Feature image: Photo by CardMapr.nl on Unsplash

We all love our smartphones. They keep us connected, entertained, and informed.

But did you know they can also cause surprising injuries? Physio Melanie Mac shares insights on phone injuries.

Dropping Phones on Your Face

It might sound silly, but it’s common. “Sixty percent of 16 to 24-year-olds have dropped their smartphones onto their face while lying down,” Mel reveals. It’s proof that accidents can happen in the most unexpected ways.

The Rise of “Tech Neck”

Constantly looking down at screens affects posture. Mel explains: “The biggest thing that presents at my practice would be neck and shoulders, because people get that slumped forward position.”

Whether it’s the “turtle neck” posture or dipping the chin, both can cause long-term neck and shoulder pain.

Text Claw and Smartphone Pinky

Gripping your phone too tightly can lead to cramping. “If you actually took away the device, it looks like a claw,” Mel says. This condition, called “text claw,” can even develop into tendon issues.

Another injury is “smartphone pinky.” Mel explains: “You can actually get a dent in your little finger from holding your phone for too long.”

More Than Just Muscle Strain

The injuries don’t stop at the hands and neck. Overuse of phones is linked to eye strain, carpal tunnel, and even hearing loss from blasting music through earbuds. Mel also warns: “There’s been a 40% increase in the chance of getting haemorrhoids if you use your phone on the toilet.”

Simple Fixes for Everyday Use

The good news? Awareness helps. Mel recommends:

• Hold your phone at eye level.
• Use stands or cradles to avoid slumping.
• Take breaks every 20 minutes.
• Switch posture regularly.
• Use voice commands or loudspeaker when possible.

Awareness Is Key

Smartphones are here to stay, but so are the risks. Mel reminds us: “Awareness is the starting point. Pay attention to your posture and make small adjustments.”

So next time you reach for your phone, think twice about how you’re holding it you might just save yourself some pain.

Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine.

Feature image: Canva