VPN downloads in the UK surged after new age verification rules

The number of Britons downloading virtual private network (VPN) apps has soared over the weekend, following the rollout of new age verification rules under the UK’s Online Safety Act, raising questions about the feasibility of enforcing digital controls in an open society. Proton VPN, developed by Swiss-based Proton AG, overtook ChatGPT to become the most downloaded free app on Apple’s UK App Store over the weekend, according to Apple’s app charts. Other VPN apps from Nord Security and Super Unlimited also broke into the top ten. Proton reported a 1,400% spike in sign-ups from UK-based users after the new law came into effect. “We would normally associate these large spikes in sign-ups with major civil unrest,” Proton reportedly said. The rush to install VPNs, tools commonly used in countries like China and Iran to circumvent government firewalls, suggests a significant proportion of UK internet users are unwilling to comply with digital identification measures intended to protect minors from online harm. UK users embrace tech tools to scale digital fences Under the Online Safety Act , which was passed by the Conservative government in 2023 but came into force in stages, thousands of platforms hosting adult content, including social media platforms such as X, TikTok , Reddit, are now required to implement age verification or “age assurance” systems for UK users. Regulator Ofcom, which began enforcing the rules last Friday, says the aim is to restrict access to harmful online material, including pornography, content promoting self-harm, eating disorders, or suicide, for children under the age of 18. Companies that fail to comply risk fines of up to £18 million or 10% of their global revenue. Even though VPNs offer an easy workaround, cybersecurity pros and privacy advocates argue that the real-time digital ID checks infringe on civil liberties. “This is what happens when people who haven’t got a clue about technology pass legislation,” said Anthony Rose , a UK-based entrepreneur and former BBC iPlayer architect, in a post on X. “It takes less than five minutes to install a VPN. That’s the beauty of VPN. You can be anywhere you like.” How secure is the UK’s content safety net? Ofcom acknowledged over the weekend that age checks are “not a silver bullet”, but insisted they are a step toward reducing accidental exposure of children to graphic or harmful content. “Until now, kids could easily stumble across porn and other online content that’s harmful to them without even looking for it,” the regulator said in a statement. “Age checks will help prevent that.” Still, the backlash is growing. More than 290,000 people have signed a petition on the UK Parliament website calling for the repeal of the Online Safety Act, with the vast majority of signatures submitted in just the past few days. Since it has surpassed the 100,000 threshold, Parliament is now obliged to consider it for debate. The UK’s regulation is being closely watched by other democracies exploring similar legislation. The Online Safety Act has already created diplomatic friction. Some officials in the US, particularly within the Republican-aligned bloc, have voiced concern over its implications for freedom of speech and digital sovereignty. However, UK technology secretary Peter Kyle said the rules are “not up for negotiation,” even as London pursues a broader digital trade agreement with Washington. Want your project in front of crypto’s top minds? Feature it in our next industry report, where data meets impact.

Read more

XYZVerse vs. SHIB: Which Cryptocurrency Is More Likely to Make Investors Millionaires by 2026?

As 2026 approaches, two cryptocurrencies are drawing significant attention for their potential to generate substantial wealth. XYZVerse, a newcomer with innovative promises, and SHIB, a token that has captured widespread interest, stand out. This article explores which of these digital assets might offer the greatest opportunity for investors seeking remarkable returns. Demand for $XYZ Surges As Its Capitalization Hits the $15M Milestone XYZVerse ($XYZ), recently recognized as Best NEW Meme Project , is drawing significant attention thanks to its standout concept. It is the first ever meme coin that merges the thrill of sports and the innovation of web3. Unlike typical meme coins, XYZVerse offers real utility and a clear roadmap for long-term development. It plans to launch gamified products and form partnerships with big sports teams and platforms. Notably, XYZVerse recently delivered on one of its goals ahead of schedule by partnering with bookmaker.XYZ , the first fully on-chain decentralized sportsbook and casino. As a bonus, $XYZ token holders receive exclusive perks on their first bet . Price Dynamics and Listing Plans During its presale phase, the $XYZ token has shown steady growth. Since its launch, the price has increased from $0.0001 to $0.005, with the next stage set to push it further to $0.01. The final presale price is $0.02, after which the token will be listed on major centralized and decentralized exchanges. The projected listing price of $0.10 could generate up to 1,000x returns for early investors, provided the project secures the necessary market capitalization. So far, more than $15 million has been raised, and the presale is approaching another significant milestone of $20 million . This fast progress is signaling strong demand from both retail and institutional investors. Champions Get Rewarded In XYZVerse , the community calls the plays . Active contributors are rewarded with airdropped XYZ tokens for their dedication. It’s a game where the most passionate players win big. The Road to Victory With solid tokenomics, strategic CEX and DEX listings, and consistent token burns, $XYZ is built for a championship run. Every play is designed to push it further, to strengthen its price , and to rally a community of believers who believe this is the start of something legendary. Airdrops, Rewards, and More – Join XYZVerse to Unlock All the Benefits Shiba Inu: The Memecoin Turning Heads with Ethereum Power Shiba Inu (SHIB) is a digital coin that started as a fun spin on Dogecoin. Launched in August 2020 by the mysterious Ryoshi, SHIB runs on the Ethereum blockchain. This connection lets it tap into Ethereum’s wide range of applications. SHIB began with an enormous supply of one quadrillion tokens. In a bold move, half of these were sent to Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin to build trust. Buterin donated a large chunk to the India Covid Relief Fund and burned 40% of the total supply. These actions grabbed attention and boosted SHIB’s profile. SHIB isn’t just a meme coin; it’s building real features. It created ShibaSwap, a place for users to trade tokens without a central authority. Plans are underway for an NFT platform and a system where holders can vote on changes. These developments give SHIB potential for more uses in the crypto world. In today’s market, SHIB stands out because of its growing community and expanding tools. Compared to other coins, its link to Ethereum could make it more appealing to those interested in new crypto technologies. While the market is always changing, SHIB’s blend of fun and function might make it attractive to many. Conclusion Though SHIB shows potential, XYZVerse’s fusion of sports and meme culture, community-driven ecosystem, and ambitious growth goals position it as a compelling option for significant returns by 2026. You can find more information about XYZVerse (XYZ) here: https://xyzverse.io/ , https://t.me/xyzverse , https://x.com/xyz_verse Continue Reading: XYZVerse vs. SHIB: Which Cryptocurrency Is More Likely to Make Investors Millionaires by 2026?

Read more

Analyst Predicts Bitcoin Bull Market Will Last Another 14 Months, Unveils Short and Long-Term BTC Price Targets

A closely followed crypto strategist believes that the Bitcoin ( BTC ) bull market will endure another year or so based on historical precedent. Pseudonymous analyst TechDev tells his 537,900 followers on the social media platform X that he thinks Bitcoin follows the business cycle, or the ebb and flow of macroeconomic activity, rather than the four-year halving cycle. According to the analyst, Bitcoin tends to rally hard when the business cycle begins a new uptrend, while the copper-to-gold ratio – a risk-appetite indicator –bottoms out. Taken together, TechDev says the signal marks an “inflection point” that has historically aligned with the timing of Bitcoin bull market tops. “There is a Bitcoin cycle – just not what many think. It mirrors the business cycle. Bitcoin tops when it tops. Bitcoin goes parabolic when it inflects. Bitcoin’s ‘ramp’ length = time until inflection Bitcoin has always topped 14 months after inflection.” Source: TechDev/X As for his Bitcoin price targets, TechDev sees BTC hitting $170,000 in the short to mid term and about $380,000 in the long term. His predictions are based on BTC’s two-day and two-week charts, which show that Bitcoin broke out from massive cup-and-handle patterns on both time frames. The cup-and-handle pattern suggests that a bullish asset will continue its uptrend after a period of consolidation. “We literally just did this.” Source: TechDev/X At time of writing, Bitcoin is worth $118,110. Follow us on X , Facebook and Telegram Don't Miss a Beat – Subscribe to get email alerts delivered directly to your inbox Check Price Action Surf The Daily Hodl Mix Disclaimer: Opinions expressed at The Daily Hodl are not investment advice. Investors should do their due diligence before making any high-risk investments in Bitcoin, cryptocurrency or digital assets. Please be advised that your transfers and trades are at your own risk, and any losses you may incur are your responsibility. The Daily Hodl does not recommend the buying or selling of any cryptocurrencies or digital assets, nor is The Daily Hodl an investment advisor. Please note that The Daily Hodl participates in affiliate marketing. Generated Image: Midjourney The post Analyst Predicts Bitcoin Bull Market Will Last Another 14 Months, Unveils Short and Long-Term BTC Price Targets appeared first on The Daily Hodl .

Read more

BNB Hits New All-Time High at $827 with Market Cap Surging to $114.85 Billion

🚀 Are You Chasing New Coins? Catch the newest crypto opportunities. Be the first to buy, be the first to win! Click here to discover new altcoins! BNB reached a

Read more

Bitcoin Surpasses $119,000 Amid Renewed Investor Confidence and Market Dynamics

🚀 Are You Chasing New Coins? Catch the newest crypto opportunities. Be the first to buy, be the first to win! Click here to discover new altcoins! Bitcoin has surged

Read more

Can Pudgy Penguins reach 1 dollar?

Pudgy Penguins' $1 goal for PENGU token: Unpack all hype, hopes & big hurdles. Learn why it's not NFTs.

Read more

White House to Unveil National Crypto Stockpile This Wednesday: XRP Rumored to be on the List

A recent post by crypto influencer Xaif has sparked intense speculation across the digital asset space. According to Xaif, the White House is set to unveil a national crypto stockpile report this Wednesday, and XRP is rumored to be featured alongside Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH). If confirmed, this could mark a defining moment in XRP’s evolution, from a widely traded asset to a strategic U.S. digital reserve. Strategic Reserve Origins In March 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order establishing two groundbreaking institutions: the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and the U.S. Digital Asset Stockpile. The move came just months after his return to the White House and is widely seen as a pivot in U.S. digital asset policy. Under this framework, BTC would be recognized as a national reserve asset, while the Digital Asset Stockpile would hold other cryptocurrencies seized through legal proceedings. BIG: White House to unveil national crypto stockpile report this Wednesday! $XRP rumored to be on the list alongside BTC & ETH. Is XRP becoming a strategic U.S. digital asset? pic.twitter.com/sOywwGNF5S — 𝕏aif | (@Xaif_Crypto) July 27, 2025 The president established a Working Group on Digital Asset Markets to lead this effort, tasking it with producing a detailed policy report within 180 days. That deadline expires this Wednesday, July 30, and the upcoming release is expected to clarify the structure, purpose, and contents of the nation’s crypto holdings. XRP’s Potential Role in the National Stockpile In March, President Trump hinted on Truth Social that XRP, Cardano (ADA), and Solana (SOL) might be included in the government’s crypto stockpile. BTC and ETH were later added to the rumored list. These early disclosures sent shockwaves through the market, causing price rallies and fueling debates about which tokens the government might prioritize for long-term strategic use. If XRP is officially named in the report, it would represent a major milestone for the asset, especially given its long-standing regulatory battles with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Inclusion in a government-endorsed reserve would not only validate XRP’s legitimacy but also signal a shift in Washington’s stance toward the token. No Taxpayer Purchases, Only Seized Crypto Importantly, the White House has made it clear that this stockpile will consist entirely of seized digital assets, not tokens acquired through public spending. These assets originate from law enforcement actions and forfeitures, meaning taxpayers won’t foot the bill. We are on twitter, follow us to connect with us :- @TimesTabloid1 — TimesTabloid (@TimesTabloid1) July 15, 2023 This model offers a practical approach to accumulating and storing crypto, avoiding the political controversy associated with direct government purchases. XRP as a Strategic Digital Asset? While XRP’s inclusion is not yet confirmed, multiple sources suggest its presence is highly likely. Being grouped with Bitcoin and Ethereum positions XRP as a potential cornerstone of U.S. digital infrastructure. Analysts argue that such recognition could boost investor confidence and reinforce XRP’s use case in cross-border payments and financial networks. However, critics urge caution. Some in the crypto space view government stockpiling as contradictory to the decentralized nature of digital assets. Others question whether the U.S. should treat cryptocurrencies as strategic reserves at all, given their volatility. Final Thoughts Xaif’s report has ignited anticipation ahead of Wednesday’s official release. If XRP is indeed named in the national crypto stockpile, it will mark a turning point, not just for XRP but for the broader role of digital assets in American economic policy. With the world watching, all eyes now turn to Washington as the U.S. redefines its relationship with crypto on a national scale. Disclaimer : This content is meant to inform and should not be considered financial advice. The views expressed in this article may include the author’s personal opinions and do not represent Times Tabloid’s opinion. Readers are urged to do in-depth research before making any investment decisions. Any action taken by the reader is strictly at their own risk. Times Tabloid is not responsible for any financial losses. Follow us on Twitter , Facebook , Telegram , and Google News The post White House to Unveil National Crypto Stockpile This Wednesday: XRP Rumored to be on the List appeared first on Times Tabloid .

Read more

Ethereum Exchange Outflows Suggest Potential Accumulation Amid Price Dip and Reduced Sell Pressure

🚀 Are You Chasing New Coins? Catch the newest crypto opportunities. Be the first to buy, be the first to win! Click here to discover new altcoins! Ethereum experienced $1.15

Read more

Bitcoin Price Surge Unleashed: BTC Breaches $119,000 Mark!

BitcoinWorld Bitcoin Price Surge Unleashed: BTC Breaches $119,000 Mark! The cryptocurrency world is buzzing with excitement as Bitcoin, the undisputed king of digital assets, once again captures headlines with a monumental price movement. According to Bitcoin World market monitoring, BTC has not just crossed, but confidently risen above the significant $119,000 mark. Specifically, on the Binance USDT market, BTC is currently trading at an impressive $119,001. This recent Bitcoin price surge is more than just a number; it’s a testament to the evolving dynamics of the digital economy and sparks crucial conversations about its future trajectory. Understanding the Recent Bitcoin Price Surge For many, witnessing Bitcoin breach such a high psychological and technical barrier is a thrilling development. This isn’t just a minor fluctuation; it signifies strong buying pressure and renewed confidence among investors. While Bitcoin has seen its fair share of dramatic rallies and corrections, breaking into new price territories always garners significant attention. What does it mean when the world’s leading cryptocurrency achieves such a milestone? Market Confidence: A sustained move above key resistance levels often indicates growing investor confidence and a bullish sentiment prevailing in the market. Increased Liquidity: Higher prices typically attract more participants, leading to increased trading volume and liquidity, making it easier for large transactions to occur without significant price impact. Psychological Impact: Reaching new highs or breaking significant thresholds like $119,000 can create a “fear of missing out” (FOMO) among potential investors, further driving demand. This particular Bitcoin price surge highlights the asset’s resilience and its continued journey towards mainstream financial integration. It serves as a powerful reminder of Bitcoin’s unique position in the global financial landscape. What’s Fueling This Bitcoin Price Surge? Behind every significant market movement, there are underlying factors at play. The current Bitcoin price surge is likely a confluence of several powerful drivers, both fundamental and technical. Understanding these catalysts is key to comprehending the broader market narrative. Let’s explore some of the primary forces contributing to this impressive rally: Driver Explanation Institutional Adoption Increasing interest from large financial institutions, corporations, and even sovereign wealth funds adds significant capital and legitimacy to the crypto space. The approval of Bitcoin ETFs in various regions has opened doors for traditional investors to gain exposure. Macroeconomic Factors Concerns over inflation, geopolitical instability, and devaluing fiat currencies often push investors towards alternative assets like Bitcoin, which is sometimes seen as “digital gold” or a hedge against traditional market uncertainties. Bitcoin Halving Event The quadrennial Bitcoin halving, which reduces the supply of new Bitcoins entering circulation, historically precedes significant bull runs. The reduced supply, coupled with steady or increasing demand, naturally creates upward price pressure. Technological Advancements & Network Growth Ongoing developments in Bitcoin’s underlying technology, such as the Lightning Network for faster transactions or improved scalability solutions, enhance its utility and appeal. Growing network adoption also reinforces its value proposition. Retail Investor Interest While institutions play a large role, renewed interest from individual investors, often spurred by positive news and social media trends, can also provide significant momentum. Accessibility through user-friendly platforms continues to grow. Each of these elements contributes to a compelling narrative that supports the ongoing ascent of Bitcoin’s value. The interplay of these factors creates a robust environment for continued growth, setting the stage for future movements of the Bitcoin price surge . Navigating the Volatility: Opportunities and Challenges of a Bitcoin Price Surge While a significant Bitcoin price surge is undoubtedly exciting, it’s crucial for investors to approach the market with a balanced perspective. The crypto market is known for its volatility, and understanding both the potential opportunities and inherent challenges is vital for making informed decisions. What are the opportunities this surge presents? Potential for Capital Appreciation: The most obvious benefit is the opportunity for significant returns on investment, especially for those who invested at lower price points. Portfolio Diversification: Bitcoin can act as a non-correlated asset to traditional financial markets, potentially reducing overall portfolio risk. Innovation and Growth: A rising Bitcoin price often brings more capital and talent into the broader blockchain ecosystem, fostering further innovation and development in decentralized technologies. Increased Mainstream Acceptance: Higher prices and positive news cycles can lead to greater public awareness and acceptance, paving the way for wider adoption in commerce and finance. What challenges should investors be aware of? High Volatility: While Bitcoin has surged, it can also experience rapid corrections. Prices can fluctuate wildly, leading to significant unrealized losses if not managed carefully. Regulatory Uncertainty: The regulatory landscape for cryptocurrencies is still evolving globally. Sudden policy changes or crackdowns in major economies could impact market sentiment and prices. Market Manipulation: The crypto market is not immune to large players or “whales” whose significant holdings and trading activities can influence prices. Security Risks: Storing and managing cryptocurrencies requires robust security practices to protect against hacks, scams, and loss of private keys. Actionable Insights for Investors: To navigate the current market climate effectively, consider these actionable steps: Do Your Own Research (DYOR): Never invest based solely on hype. Understand the fundamentals, technology, and market dynamics. Start Small and Gradually Accumulate (DCA): Instead of investing a large sum at once, consider dollar-cost averaging (DCA), investing fixed amounts regularly to average out your entry price. Risk Management: Only invest what you can afford to lose. Set stop-loss orders to limit potential downsides and take profits strategically. Secure Your Assets: Use reputable exchanges and consider hardware wallets for long-term storage of significant holdings. Looking Ahead: What Does This Bitcoin Price Surge Mean for the Future? The breaking of the $119,000 barrier by Bitcoin is not just a moment of celebration; it’s a significant indicator of potential future trends. This latest Bitcoin price surge could be a stepping stone towards even higher valuations, reflecting a growing acceptance of digital assets in the global financial system. Many analysts are now revising their price targets upwards, with some predicting Bitcoin could eventually challenge and surpass previous all-time highs. The increasing integration of Bitcoin into traditional finance, coupled with its finite supply, continues to build a compelling long-term investment case. Consider the potential ripple effects: Increased Institutional Inflows: Success stories like this surge can encourage more institutional players to allocate capital to Bitcoin, creating a virtuous cycle of demand. Broader Ecosystem Growth: A strong Bitcoin often lifts the entire crypto market, benefiting altcoins and decentralized finance (DeFi) projects. Innovation Acceleration: Higher valuations can fund more research and development into blockchain technology, leading to more practical applications and improved infrastructure. Regulatory Clarity: As Bitcoin gains more prominence, governments and regulatory bodies may be compelled to provide clearer frameworks, which could further legitimize the asset class. While the path ahead may still have its bumps, the current momentum suggests a future where Bitcoin plays an even more central role in global finance. This latest milestone serves as a powerful reminder of the asset’s enduring appeal and its potential to reshape how we perceive and interact with money. Conclusion: Riding the Wave of Bitcoin’s Ascent The news of Bitcoin rising above $119,000 is a thrilling development for anyone watching the cryptocurrency markets. This significant Bitcoin price surge , confirmed by Bitcoin World market monitoring and observed on platforms like Binance, underscores the asset’s robust demand and the growing confidence among investors. It’s a clear signal that Bitcoin continues to mature as a legitimate and powerful financial asset. While the journey of any investment involves risks, understanding the underlying drivers—from institutional adoption to macroeconomic shifts—and applying sound investment strategies can help navigate the exciting yet volatile world of digital currencies. As Bitcoin continues its impressive climb, it reaffirms its position at the forefront of a financial revolution, inviting both seasoned investors and curious newcomers to explore its transformative potential. The future of finance is unfolding before our eyes, and Bitcoin is undeniably leading the charge. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Q1: What does it mean for Bitcoin to rise above $119,000? A1: It signifies a significant bullish trend and strong buying interest in the market. Breaking such a psychological and technical resistance level often indicates renewed investor confidence and potential for further upward movement. Q2: What factors are contributing to this Bitcoin price surge? A2: Several factors are at play, including increasing institutional adoption, concerns over macroeconomic inflation, the impact of the recent Bitcoin halving event, ongoing technological advancements, and renewed interest from retail investors. Q3: Is now a good time to invest in Bitcoin given its current price? A3: Investing in Bitcoin always carries risks due to its volatility. While the current surge indicates positive momentum, it’s crucial to conduct your own research (DYOR), consider your risk tolerance, and potentially use strategies like dollar-cost averaging (DCA) rather than investing a lump sum at a peak. Q4: How does this surge impact the broader cryptocurrency market? A4: Historically, a strong Bitcoin performance often has a positive ripple effect on the broader cryptocurrency market, leading to increased interest and potential price appreciation for altcoins as well. Bitcoin’s dominance can influence overall market sentiment. Q5: What are the main risks associated with investing during a Bitcoin price surge? A5: The primary risks include high volatility leading to rapid price corrections, regulatory uncertainties that could impact market sentiment, potential market manipulation by large holders, and security risks associated with storing digital assets. Share This Article! Found this analysis of the Bitcoin price surge insightful? Share it with your friends, family, and fellow crypto enthusiasts on social media! Let’s spread awareness about the exciting developments in the world of digital finance. To learn more about the latest crypto market trends, explore our article on key developments shaping Bitcoin price action . This post Bitcoin Price Surge Unleashed: BTC Breaches $119,000 Mark! first appeared on BitcoinWorld and is written by Editorial Team

Read more

Forget PEPE—This Hot New Crypto Could 1000x in the Next Altseason!

Catzilla Powers Up: $CATZILLA Leaps 200% with Meow Points Magic $CATZILLA is unstoppable, roaring ahead with unmatched power and community support! Starting at just $0.0002 , this feline meme coin has already surged 500% to $0.0009—and this is only Stage 7 out of 14 ! With the final presale price set at $0.0016 , this represents an incredible 700% growth from its starting price. Catzilla is a force to be reckoned with, backed by overwhelming demand and a fiercely loyal community . The recent introduction of Meow Points has only added fuel to the fire, empowering early adopters to claim even bigger rewards. Catzilla Introduces Meow Points: Your Ticket to Bigger Airdrop Rewards Meow Points are designed to reward early adopters and loyal supporters, giving you an extra edge in the future airdrop distribution . Join the $CATZILLA revolution today and let the rewards roll in. The more you spend on $CATZILLA , the more Meow Points you’ll earn. It’s that simple! Here’s the math: If you spend $400 on $CATZILLA , you’ll collect: $400 x 7% x 100 = 2,800 Meow Points The more you invest , the bigger your share in the upcoming airdrop . Think of it as leveling up your rewards while you grow your $CATZILLA holdings. But it doesn’t stop there—Catzilla also rewards you for bringing others. Through the multi-level referral program , you can earn Meow Points every time your referral purchases tokens. Here’s how it works: For every referral, you’ll earn 20% of the Meow Points from their token purchase. Don’t miss this chance to collect Meow Points and Catzilla: The Ultimate Destroyer of the Old World Catzilla is roaring stronger than ever, bringing together crypto enthusiasts, meme lovers, anime fans, and DeFi warriors into an unstoppable powerhouse. This dynamic fusion unites diverse communities under one electrifying banner. With bold storytelling, irresistible rewards, and staggering profit potential, Catzilla is set to dominate the market and take center stage. Don’t wait—join the Cat Revolution today! Conclusion Site: Catzilla ($CATZILLA) Twitter: https://x.com/CatzillaToken Telegram: Telegram Chat Telegram News Continue Reading: Forget PEPE—This Hot New Crypto Could 1000x in the Next Altseason!

Read more