A Billion-Dollar Dark Web Crime Lord Calls It Quits

The “big hack” redux, riot planning on Facebook, and more of the week’s top security news.

Scientists Can Literally Become Allergic to Their Research

Researchers spend long periods of time around the organisms they study. Sometimes, that exposure has unintended—and potentially deadly—effects.

19 Face Masks We Actually Like to Wear

Plus, updated tips on how to wear them most effectively—whether you're running, going to work, or just trying to stay safe and stylish.

The Best Presidents' Day Deals for the Home, Phones, and More

Take advantage of the many sales going on this weekend and save on gear you might need.

We Need a Global Outbreak Investigation Team—Now

The WHO’s fact-finding mission into the origins of Covid-19 was limited and late. But there are models to help prepare for the next crisis.

A New Artificial Intelligence Makes Mistakes—on Purpose

A chess program that learns from human error might be better at working with people or negotiating with them.

How to Have a Meaningful Video Chat … With Your Dog

Has the pandemic separated you from your four-legged friend? These tips will help you stay in touch.

The Rot of Riot Games Culture Starts at the Top

CEO Nicolo Laurent continues to employ multiple top executives who have been accused of sexism and harassment—and is himself the subject of a complaint.

Researchers Levitated a Small Tray Using Nothing but Light

One day a “magic carpet” based on this light-induced flow technology could carry climate sensors high in the atmosphere—wind permitting.

Vaccine Progress, New Mask Guidelines, and More News

Catch up on the most important updates from this week.

Mrs. Coulter Is One of the Best Villains on TV

Ruth Wilson's character is the highlight of HBO's His Dark Materials.

The Crushing Disappointment of Fandom

Gina Carano, Joss Whedon—this week has been full of dispiriting news about people many fans admire.

Optimizely’s Founder Wants to Augment Your Memories

Plus: The Obama campaign’s data wiz, the limits of content moderation, and a video filter gone awry.

Samsung's Galaxy Buds Pro Are the Best Premium Earbuds

Samsung's AirPods Pro competitors have better battery life, better sound, and a more comfortable fit than Apple's buds.

Carjackings Are Up—and Gig Workers Are Getting Victimized

Drivers, often unfamiliar with a neighborhood, leave cars running while dropping off food. Opportunistic thieves lie in wait.

The Wanting Mare Is the Most Visual Fantasy in Recent Memory

It asks you to dig into your past—with the help of some magic horses.

This Cryptocurrency Is Really Burning a Hole in My Pocket

This week, we discuss crypto’s role in the future of shopping. When can we to use it to buy everything from Nikes to Teslas?

Our Picks From Outdoor Winter Clearance Sales Going on Now

The best time to buy is when the season is winding down. It's not just cold-weather picks, but backpacks, headlamps, sporks, and more.

If You Can Learn Twitch-Speak, You Can Learn a Language

If I could come to understand forsenCD and poggers, then teaching myself Mandarin Chinese didn't seem too far-fetched.

Microsoft’s Big Win in Quantum Computing Was an ‘Error’

In a 2018 paper, researchers said they found evidence of an elusive theorized particle. A closer look now suggests otherwise.