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A former Coinbase customer service agent in India who allegedly helped hackers steal sensitive customer information from its database was arrested in India.

Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong said in a post on X on Dec. 26 that more arrests are to come.

"We have zero tolerance for bad behavior and will continue to work with law enforcement to bring bad actors to justice," Armstrong posted. "Thanks to the Hyderabad Police in India, an ex-Coinbase customer service agent was just arrested. Another one down and more still to come."

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. SEE ALSO: The 6 biggest cybersecurity breaches of 2025

These support agents allegedly gave access to hackers as part of a May 2025 incident in which hackers demanded a $20 million ransom in exchange for not publicly leaking stolen customer data, according to Bleeping Computer.

As Mashable reported at the time, Coinbase said the hackers obtained names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, masked bank account numbers, photos of government IDs, and the last four digits of customers' social security numbers. On top of that, the hackers also accessed account data, including balance snapshots and transaction history.

Despite this, Coinbase refused to pay the $20 million ransom, instead offering a $20 million reward fund for anyone providing information on the people responsible for the breach. At this time, it's not clear if the reward fund played a role in the recent arrest in India.

"At Coinbase, we work directly with law enforcement, using blockchain tracing and other tools to help identify offenders and support prosecutions and we will not stop," a Coinbase spokesperson told BleepingComputer.

As someone who works from home and plays a lot of PC games, I spend countless hours at my desk. I try to stay active outside work, but I still end up sitting for long stretches.

If you spend a decent amount of time online, you've probably heard of brainrot. But you'd be forgiven if it's unclear, really, what that is.

The first thing to understand is that it's everywhere — and has been for a while — and that it's increasingly a central part of the internet, for better or worse. Let's dig into it.

What is brainrot content?

Brainrot, believe it or not, was Oxford's word of the year in 2024. The prestigious university defined it as "the supposed deterioration of a person’s mental or intellectual state, especially viewed as the result of overconsumption of material (now particularly online content) considered to be trivial or unchallenging. Also: something characterized as likely to lead to such deterioration."

Words change their meaning over time, and in the year that's passed since Oxford's honor, the internet has shifted more toward that second definition. In other words, brainrot is mostly used to describe something that will harm or damage your brain. It's meaningless drivel, often silly, that serves no purpose other than to cook your brain cells.

(Fun fact: Oxford noted the phrase "brain rot" first appeared in Henry David Thoreau's classic book Walden, in which he lamented the demise of complex thinking, writing society "will not any endeavour to cure the brain-rot." Touch grass, etc.)

For another definition, the internet researchers at Know Your Meme wrote:

"Brainrot is a slang term used to describe content that has little to no artistic, educational or substantive value, painting it as having a negative impact on the viewer and thus leading to the degradation and 'rot' of their brain. In relation, the term is used to refer to pieces of 'brain rot content' that a person cannot stop thinking about, leading to further brain rot, such as regularly repeating the Skibidi Toilet song."

Over the last few years, brainrot has proliferated, and the Skibidi Toilet nonsense is a great example. So brainrot content might be a bodyless, disturbing head singing in a toilet. Or it could be kids screaming "6-7" all day long. Or it could be AI-generated, strange animals given nonsensical Italian-sounding names like Tralalero Tralala.

Watch the TikTok embedded below and you'll immediately understand brainrot.

Why is brainrot inescapable?

As with most things in 2025, part of the answer for brainrot's inescapability involves AI. Consider those ridiculous Italian animals — a few years ago, you'd need artistic or Photoshop skills to create that nonsense. Now you need only a few seconds to create that slop.

It's no shock that brainrot's rise has come in tandem with AI slop's popularity — one piece of content can be both, in fact. As I previously wrote for Mashable: "AI slop is everywhere because it's easy to create, and because 'slop' in this context describes content made fast, at scale, with little risk or care." A study by video-editing platform Kapwing found that about half of YouTube Shorts were slop or brainrot.

Brainrot doesn't necessarily always involve AI, but when it does, it's super easy to create. And kids really seem to find the whole idea funny, which probably helps account for brainrot's popularity. If young people find it funny to have their brains rotted — or at least act like it — then it's naturally going to become popular.

With the rise of TikTok, we've all gotten quite used to scrolling mindlessly — brainrot seems to be a natural extension of that inclination. It can be nice to check out and tune in to something entirely mindless.

Brainrot isn't going anywhere — and it's not the end of the world — but maybe mix in a book everywhere once in a while.

Best deals for a fitness New Year's resolution Best Apple fitness tracker deal Apple Watch 11 (GPS, 42mm) $299 (save $100) Get Deal Best workout earbuds deal Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 $199.95 (save $50) Get Deal Best budget fitness tracker deal CMF Nothing Watch 3 Pro (Ash Grey) $64.57 (save $34.43) Get Deal Best exercise bike deal Peloton Bike $1,445 (save $250) Get Deal Best fitness equipment deal Hydrow Origin Rowing Machine $1,695 (save $500) Get Deal Best fitness app deal Peloton App One $12.99 for three months (save $25.98) Get Deal Best hydration deal Stanley Quencher H2.0 Tumbler (30 ounce) $26 (save $14) Get Deal Best fitness attire deal Gymshark take up to 50% off men's and women's styles Get Deal

We're just days away from ringing in 2026. If you're like of us, we have intentions of being more active, heathy, and fit in the coming year. Cliche as it is, a new year is a great time for a fresh start with good-for-us habits. Getting fit is not only a gift for yourself, it's a gift to loved ones to keep yourself healthy and happy.

But workout resolutions tend to fall by the wayside quickly. In an attempt to stick to those new routines, it's helpful to have some fitness gear on hand that you love. Instead of dealing with headphones that fall out with every lift, a solid pair of workout earbuds can help with motivation. The same can be said for investing in a rowing machine or a workout app that you actually enjoy.

We've compiled the best fitness deals that we love ahead of the New Year. Upgrade to items that help you reach your goals from a great new water bottle to a shockingly inexpensive fitness tracker. Here are some great deals to snag today.

Best Apple fitness tracker deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple Watch 11 (GPS, 42mm) $299 at Amazon
$399 Save $100   Get Deal

Read our full review of the Apple Watch Series 11.

Why we like it

A fitness tracker is one of the best ways to easily keep tabs on your health journey. Whether you walk the dog twice a day or have plans to train for a marathon in 2026, the Apple Watch 11 is perfect smartwatch that's loaded with fitness-tracking features. With GPS in a 41mm size, it usually sells for $399 but Amazon has it on sale for only $299 ahead of the New Year.

In Mashable's rating of the best fitness trackers, the Apple Watch 11 earns top marks thanks to its gorgeous design, comfortable fit, and speedy charging.

More fitness tracker deals

• Amazfit Bip 6 — $64.99 $79.99 (save $15)

• Fitbit Inspire 3 — $69.95 $99.95 (save $30)

• Fitbit Charge 6 — $119.95 $159.95 (save $40)

• Garmin Forerunner 55 — $149.99 $199.99 (save $50)

• Garmin Venu Sq 2 — $149.99 $249.99 (save $100)

• Garmin vívoactive 5 — $186.83 $299.99 (save $113.16)

• Whoop 5.0/MG — $199 $239 (save $40)

• Google Pixel Watch 4 (41mm) — $299.99 $349.99 (save $50)

Best workout earbuds deal Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 $199.95 at Amazon
$249.95 Save $50   Get Deal

Read our full review of the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 sports earbuds.

Why we like it

A good set of earbuds can make a world of difference, whether you're rocking out while working hard at the gym or listening to a podcast while walking around the neighborhood. In Mashable's analysis of the best workout earbuds, the Beats Prowerbeats Pro 2 earn the top spot. Lucky for us, they're $50 off at Amazon right now.

They satisfy the brief on so many levels like being durable, having accessible controls, and being comfortable enough for extended wear. Plus, the 10 hours of battery life is a big bonus.

More workout earbuds deals

• JLab Go Sport+ — $19.99 $29.88 (save $9.89)

• Soundcore V20i — $39.99 $49.99 (save $10)

• JBL Endurance Peak 3 — $59.95 $99.95 (save $40)

• Beats Fit Pro (1st Gen) — $149 $199.99 (save $50.95)

• Soundcore AeroClip — $149.99 $169.99 (save $20)

• Bose Ultra Open Earbuds — $229 $299 (save $70)

Best fitness equipment deal Opens in a new window Credit: Hydrow Hydrow Origin Rowing Machine $1,695 at Amazon
$2,195 Save $500   Get Deal Why we like it

If you're not looking to join a gym this year but you still yearn for a great workout from home, it's hard to beat a Hydrow. A rowing workout is a full-body strengthening experience and its low-impact is great for folks of all ages. Hydrow does is right with the Origin Rowing Machine which has a 22-inch rotating screen so you can follow along with beginner-friendly workouts or intense strength exercises. Snagging it from Amazon today will put you in line for a $500 discount which is a solid start to the New Year.

More fitness equipment deals

• Merach Water Rowing Machine — $269.99 $499.99 (save $230)

• Merach R50 Rowing Machine — $449.99 $799.99 (save $350)

• NordicTrack T Series Treadmill — $699 $999 (save $300)

• Echelon Stride-6 Treadmill — $1,699.99 $1,999.99 (save $300)

• Ergatta Luxe Rowing Machine — $1,899 $2,499 (save $600)

Linux operating systems have become increasingly popular over the last year, as Windows 10 reached end-of-life, unwanted AI features and buggy updates pushed people away from Windows 11, and Linux distros became more user-friendly.

SAVE UP TO 30%: As of Dec. 30, Ruggable is holding an end of year sale featuring 15% off dog beds, 20% off select pillows and doormats, and between 25% and 30% off its machine washable rugs.

Opens in a new window Credit: Ruggable Ruggable end of year sale Save up to 30% Shop Now

If your New Year's Resolution is merely to get your shit together, start with your home — if your space feels chaotic, your brain tends to follow suit. Get inspired for a refresh with Ruggable's end of year sale. Shop more than 30 pages of machine washable rugs between 25% and 30% off, including already-cushioned options that don't require assembly.

SEE ALSO: My cats and I found the 8 best vacuums for pet owners, from powerful hair pickup to livestream cameras

With an extended return window through Jan. 31, you might as well finally investigate firsthand whether Ruggable is worth it. If you need extra encouragement to make the investment, just peep the reviews on each rug (most have five stars). Mashable's hands-on Ruggable review will tell you that Ruggable rugs are definitely worth it in any home with lots of foot traffic.

A new rug is the obvious jumping point for any home refresh. That's partly due to the opportunities to switch up the vibe or color scheme that you've gotten bored with. But when it's a washable rug specifically, "refresh" can be taken more literally — you'll no longer be living with the ghosts of dirty shoe bottoms, drink spills, or muddy paw prints past. You could fully revamp a bigger space with a one of several large area rug sizes, or opt to test the waters with a new runner for a hallway. Most holiday patterns are on sale, too. (Personal note: The Ruggable that I have, the best-selling Calabria rug as a kitchen runner, is 25% off. Just saying.)

Everyone loves a turbo. The sound, the rush as the power kicks in, and the feeling in the seat of your pants as the wheels struggle to grip—it's a unique experience! That said, the venerable turbocharger has its issues. Now, however, a new electric take on the turbine could give it a new life in the 21st century,

Well, now we know why Samsung is only selling the new Galaxy Z TriFold in limited markets. According to a new report, the company is selling its groundbreaking new foldable at a loss.

In fact, Samsung reportedly isn't even trying to profit off of each Galaxy Z TriFold phone it sells just yet.

A new report from Korean publication The Bell (via 9to5google) indicated that Samsung is selling the device, which recently launched in the company's home country, at a loss. In South Korea, the TriFold retails for 3,594,000 won, or roughly $2,500 USD, making it the most expensive phone in the company's portfolio by a pretty considerable margin. Still, Samsung is reportedly losing money on each unit sold, raising the question of how future TriFold phones might be priced going forward.

“This is a special edition product, so rather than selling it in bulk, we prepared it so that those who want it can try it out,” said Samsung Electronics Korea Vice President Lim Sung-taek at a Z Trifold launch event, according to a translated version of The Bell’s report. “There were various issues, such as the memory price, but we made a grand decision to reduce it and achieve this difficult price.

Currently, a global memory shortage driven by the AI boom has left critical RAM hardware components in short supply, as Mashable has reported previously.

SEE ALSO: The Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold is coming to America soon: Everything we know so far

While it's unusual to sell a product like this at a loss, there is precedent in the world of luxury tech devices.

Products like high-end video game consoles, for example, have been sold at a loss in the past, with the idea being that they'll remain on the market long enough for parts and manufacturing costs to eventually decrease, and the manufacturer will find other ways to recoup those losses in the meantime. Still, $2,500 is a lot of money for a phone, so if Samsung is losing money even at that extremely high price point, one has to wonder what the phone would actually cost if it were designed to make a profit from day one.

At any rate, U.S. customers don't have to worry about this for a little while longer. The Galaxy Z TriFold is slated to launch stateside in the early months of 2026, and it'll probably be expensive here, too.

CLoud services are an important part of our day-to-day lives, but a careless mistake can result in you accidentally sharing sensitive files or documents with the wrong person, or accidentally exposing a file to the entire internet.

I'm not a huge fan of laptops, and while there are many reasons for that, perhaps my biggest problem is the lack of screen real estate. Even 18-inch laptops just don't give me enough space to work efficiently.

As Google Drive fills up, finding the file you need can get frustrating. Basic search either misses what you’re looking for or throws back too many results, making it hard to narrow things down. I used to struggle with this, too, but after learning a few search tricks, I can now find files in seconds.

When smart bulbs first hit the market, I wanted in. However, the prices made that hard to justify. If you wanted something that works with Google Home, you had to pay around $30 a piece for something like the Philips Hue, and that was (and still is) a tough pill to swallow.

It's been years since flagship phones ditched the headphone jack, yet I can't stop thinking how nice it'd be if they'd replace that old jack with a second USB-C port. Some gaming phones already offer this feature, and it's a standard thing for handheld PCs, but mainstream smartphones from brands like Apple and Samsung need to adopt the dual-port design.

This isn't a story I expected to write. As a longtime eReader owner, I never saw the appeal of reading books on a phone. Yet I've slowly transformed into someone who reads books on their phone almost every day (and my wife does, too). Here's why I ditched by eReader and decided my smartphone was the better option.

While you might think you need a high-powered machine to learn to code, your current machine or even an older laptop will likely be all you need to get started. Here's why.

Maintenance and repair costs are one of the biggest factors that affect long-term vehicle ownership, but few shoppers research them until it’s too late. In 2025, one SUV stands out above the rest for having the lowest average maintenance costs in its class, making it an ideal choice for buyers who want peace of mind and minimal expense over years of ownership. Whether you’re commuting daily, shuttling families, or hauling gear on weekend trips, lower upkeep means more savings down the road.

Netflix has released the trailer for the last episode in Stranger Things' fifth and final season, teasing the end of the Duffer Brothers' hit series after a decade-long run. We've come a long way since the vanishing of Will Byers (Noah Schnapp) in November 1983. 

It's been four years since Mike (Finn Wolfhard), Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo), and Lucas (Caleb McLaughlin) first encountered Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) and the Upside Down, and now their battle against Vecna (Jamie Campbell Bower) is finally coming to a head. 

Having learned more about the Upside Down's true nature and Venca's ultimate plan, the Hawkins teens are on a mission to stop him once and for all, fighting alongside allies Joyce (Winona Ryder), Hopper (David Harbour), Max (Sadie Sink), Nancy (Natalia Dyer), Jonathan (Charlie Heaton), Steve (Joe Keery), and Robin (Maya Hawke). It won't be an easy task though, and victory may require painful sacrifices.

The series finale of Stranger Things premieres Dec. 31 at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT on Netflix.

TCL just unveiled its latest tablet — the Note A1 NXTPAPER. The e-note tablet delivers a distraction-free workspace powered by AI so you can focus more on taking notes and less on organizing them.

Launching on Kickstarter first, the TCL Note A1 NXTPAPER is a tablet resembling the likes of ReMarkable's Paper Pro or the Kindle Scribe. It won't be the device for streaming or gaming, as it aims to keep you focused on note-taking or reading.

The TCL Note AI NXTPAPER comes with an 11.5-inch NXTPAPER Pure display, which delivers flicker-free visuals and paper-like clarity that's gentler on the eyes. TCL claims that the e-note tablet doesn't ghost (leaving remnants of erased pen marks or text on a previous page). It features color displays with a 16.7 million color range.

Record and transcribe meetings on the TCL A1 NXTPAPER. Credit: TCL

Where the tablet goes above and beyond is with its AI productivity tools. Wish your handwriting were neater? It'll "beautify" it. Plus, it can convert handwriting to text, do real-time transcription and translation with its included eight microphones.

The TCL Note AI NXTPAPER launches in late February of 2026, retailing for $549. Early access will be available through Kickstarter.

Opens in a new window Credit: TCL TCL Note AI NXTPAPER $549 at Kickstarter
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The idea of using your Android phone as a mouse or keyboard might sound gimmicky, but it actually works pretty well. With the right software, your phone becomes a wireless trackpad that's always on hand when you need to deal with awkward setups or when your regular devices let you down.

The most dangerous thing you do every day is getting behind the wheel of a car, and that's true even if it's just your econobox on the commute to work or on the way to the grocery store. But some cars, especially those designed for performance, are notorious for setting your GPS destination to "Valhalla" in the blink of an eye.