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When and Where Is Next Kumbh Mela After 2025 Mahakumbh? How Is the Location Decided? Know Dates, Pilgrimage Sites and Other Important Details For the Sacred Festival

The Kumbh Mela is one of the most significant and sacred Hindu pilgrimages. The event draws millions of devotees from across the globe. Apart from devotees, tourists and travellers from around the world also take part in the event and witness the rituals, traditions, and customs associated with the Kumbh Mela. The Maha Kumbh Mela, which takes place once every 144 years, is currently underway in Prayagraj, and it will continue until February 26. While the Maha Kumbh Mela occurs once in 144 years, the Purna Kumbh Mela happens once every 12 years, the Ardh Kumbh Mela takes place once every six years, and the Kumbh Mela is held once every four years. In addition, the Magh Mela, also called Chhota Kumbh, is held once every year during the Magh month in Prayagraj. Maha Kumbh Returns After 144 Years: Why Is Kumbh Mela 2025 Special? Significance of ‘Deity’s Folly,’ Mythology and Other Details To Celebrate the Grand Festivities in Prayagraj.

Each Kumbh Mela is held at one of the four holy sites, which are Prayagraj, Ujjain, Haridwar, and Nashik. The location and dates of the event depend on the celestial alignment of the sun, moon, and the planets according to Hindu astrology. During the Kumbh Mela, devotees take a holy dip at the banks of sacred rivers. This tradition is believed to help one attain salvation and freedom from sin. So, when is the next Kumbh Mela? Here’s all you need to know about the event.

When Is the Next Kumbh Mela?

Two Kumbh Melas will take place in 2027; one is the Ardh Kumbh Mela, and the other is known as the Kumbh Mela.

Kumbh Mela 2027 Locations

The Ardh Kumbh Mela 2027 will take place in Haridwar, and the Kumbh Mela 2027 will take place in Nashik. For the Haridwar Ardh Kumbh Mela, devotees will take a holy dip in the River Ganges. For the Nashik Kumbh Mela, devotees will take a holy dip in the River Godavari.

Kumbh Mela 2027 Dates

The tentative Nashik Kumbh Mela 2027 dates are July 14, 2027, to September 25, 2027. The dates of the Haridwar Ardh Kumbh Mela 2027 are yet to be announced. The exact dates of the next Kumbh Mela can vary, and it will depend on the alignment of the planets and the sun and moon. It is better to check the exact dates closer to the event.

How Is the Kumbh Mela Location Decided?

The dates and location of the Kumbh Mela are determined based on the planets positions. Religious leaders, akharas, and astrologers meet and decide the next Kumbh Mela’s location. It is usually held at one of the four sacred places, which include Nashik, Ujjain, Haridwar, and Prayagraj. In Hindu astrology, when the sun is in Capricorn and Jupiter in Taurus, the Maha Kumbh Mela is held in Prayagraj, on the banks of the sacred River Ganga.

When Jupiter is in Aquarius and the sun in Aries, the Kumbh is held in Haridwar, on the banks of the Ganga. When Jupiter and the sun are in Leo, the Kumbh Mela is held on the banks of the River Godavari in Nashik, Maharashtra, and it is believed that when Jupiter is in Leo and the sun is in Aries, then the Kumbh Mela is held on the banks of the River Shipra, also known as Kshipra, in Ujjain. Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 Start and End Dates in Prayagraj: What Are the Six Shahi Snan Dates? Know Important Mahakumbh Mela Bathing and Spiritual Rituals To Mark the Grand Festival in Uttar Pradesh.

The Kumbh Mela is very significant as it is believed that taking a holy dip in the sacred waters of the rivers leads to salvation. The event is a time for spiritual growth, reaffirming their faith and blending tradition and devotion in an extraordinary celebration.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 29, 2025 02:01 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

January 29, 2025
Allstate sued for allegedly tracking and selling 45M Americans’ location data

Nowadays, almost every app you download asks for location permissions, meaning it wants to track where you are and your movements. For an app like Google Maps, requesting location access makes perfect sense. It’s also reasonable for apps like Uber or DoorDash, which rely on location for their services.

However, many apps that have nothing to do with location still ask for it, and we often grant these permissions without thinking twice. When you give an app access to your location, that data is stored and, in some cases, might even be sold. According to Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, this practice is not uncommon.

A recent lawsuit filed by Paxton alleges that the insurance company Allstate collected and sold the location data of 45 million Americans’ smartphones.

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Illustration of a company tracking customer’s data. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Allstate was allegedly collecting and stealing data

In a press release, Paxton announced that he had sued Allstate and its subsidiary, Arity, for unlawfully collecting, using and selling data about the location and movements of Texans’ cellphones. The data was gathered through secretly embedded software in mobile apps, such as Life360. “Allstate and other insurers then used the covertly obtained data to justify raising Texans’ insurance rates,” the press release stated.

The insurance provider allegedly collected trillions of miles’ worth of location data from more than 45 million Americans nationwide. The data was reportedly used to build the “world’s largest driving behavior database.” When customers sought a quote or renewed their coverage, Allstate and other insurance companies allegedly used the database to justify raising car insurance premiums.

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Paxton claims the actions violated the Texas Data Privacy and Security Act. The lawsuit alleges customers were not clearly informed their data was being collected and did not consent to the practice.

“Our investigation revealed that Allstate and Arity paid mobile apps millions of dollars to install Allstate’s tracking software,” said Paxton. “The personal data of millions of Americans was sold to insurance companies without their knowledge or consent in violation of the law. Texans deserve better and we will hold all these companies accountable.”

We reached out to Allstate and Arity for comments. A rep for the Allstate Corporation provided CyberGuy with this statement: “Arity helps consumers get the most accurate auto insurance price after they consent in a simple and transparent way that fully complies with all laws and regulations.”

Illustration of a person laying out how company tracking works. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Car manufacturers apparently do this all the time

Car manufacturers have also been accused of selling similar data to insurance companies. Last year, Paxton sued General Motors for allegedly collecting and selling the private driving data of more than 1.5 million Texans to insurance companies without their knowledge or consent. In addition to insurance companies, data brokers are frequent buyers of customer data. Critics say these brokers fail to adequately protect the information, leaving it vulnerable to hackers. Earlier this month, hackers claimed to have breached Gravy Analytics, a major location data broker and the parent company of Venntel, which is known for selling smartphone location data to U.S. government agencies.

Illustration of a hacker looking at someone’s personal data. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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5 ways to stay safe from unwanted tracking

1. Avoid installing the insurance company’s app: Many insurance companies encourage users to download their apps to “simplify” claims, payments or policy management. However, these apps often collect and track your location data under the guise of improving their services. If the app is not absolutely essential, manage your account through the company’s website or contact customer service directly instead.

2. Don’t give location permissions unnecessarily: When an app requests location access, ask yourself whether it genuinely needs this information to function. For example, a weather app may need approximate location data, but a flashlight app does not. Always choose “Deny” or “Allow only while using the app” unless absolutely necessary. Most modern devices also allow you to provide an approximate location rather than a precise one, which is a safer option when location access is unavoidable.

3. Review and manage app permissions regularly: Over time, you may forget which apps have been granted permissions. Regularly go through your device’s app settings to check and adjust permissions. On most devices, you can access this under settings > privacy > app permissions (specific steps vary by operating system). Revoke access for any apps that don’t need it or seem suspicious.

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4. Turn off location services when not in use: Keep location services off when you don’t need them. This reduces the chances of apps or devices tracking you passively in the background. For tasks like mapping or food delivery, turn location services on temporarily, then turn them off when you’re done. For added security, avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, which can also be used to track your location indirectly.

5. Use privacy-focused tools and apps: Invest in tools designed to safeguard your privacy. Virtual private networks (VPNs) can mask your location online and prevent unwanted tracking while browsing. VPNs will also protect you from those who want to track and identify your potential location and the websites that you visit. For best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices

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Kurt’s key takeaway

If Allstate is indeed unlawfully collecting and selling people’s location data, Attorney General Paxton is right to hold them accountable by filing a lawsuit. In an era where cybercriminals exploit every opportunity to scam individuals, companies that fail to protect customer data are unacceptable and should face consequences. Data has become the new oil, and everyone seems eager to exploit it — often at the expense of ordinary people. Businesses that prioritize profits over privacy erode trust and put consumers at risk, making it crucial to enforce strict accountability for such practices.

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Do you think companies like Allstate should be required to make their data practices crystal clear to customers? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

January 25, 2025
Hackers claim massive breach of company that tracks and sells Americans’ location data

When we talk about data privacy, tech giants like Google and Facebook are often blamed for using personal data to show ads and recommendations. Less discussed are the businesses whose entire business model revolves around collecting your data and selling it to other companies and governments. These companies often operate in legal gray areas, with the consent required to collect user data buried deep in the fine print.

What’s even more concerning is that these data brokers fail to adequately protect the data they collect. Last year, National Public Data made headlines for failing to secure 2.7 billion records of individuals whose data it had harvested. Now, hackers have reportedly stolen data from Gravy Analytics, the parent company of Venntel, which has sold vast amounts of smartphone location data to the U.S. government.

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A woman working on her laptop (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What you need to know about the breach

Hackers claim to have breached Gravy Analytics, a major location data broker and parent company of Venntel, a firm known for selling smartphone location data to U.S. government agencies. The compromise is massive, including sensitive location data that tracks precise smartphone movements, customer information and even internal infrastructure, according to a 404 Media report.

The hackers are threatening to make the stolen data public. The files contain precise latitude and longitude coordinates of the phone and the time at which the phone was there. Some even indicate what country the data has been collected from.

Hackers have claimed access to Gravy’s systems since 2018. If true, this represents a serious security lapse on the company’s part. It is baffling how companies that collect and sell user data (a practice that arguably shouldn’t be allowed in the first place) failed to protect it from being leaked.

404 Media also suggests that the hackers gained deep access to the company’s infrastructure, including Amazon S3 buckets and server root access. The exposed customer list reportedly includes major companies like Uber, Apple and Equifax as well as government contractors like Babel Street.

A hacker (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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What this breach means for people

This data breach highlights the serious security flaws in the location data industry. Companies like Gravy Analytics and Venntel have been profiting from collecting and selling sensitive location data, often without proper user consent. They’ve prioritized profit over security, and now the privacy of millions is at risk. This data could end up on black markets, endangering individuals, especially those in vulnerable situations, by making them targets for harassment or worse.

The FTC’s recent crackdown on Gravy, announced in December, underscores their negligence. The proposed order will prohibit these companies from selling or using location data, except in specific cases like national security or law enforcement. The implications are worrying. Sensitive locations like schools and workplaces could become easy targets for those with malicious intent.

A person using their cellphone and working on their laptop (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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5 ways to stay safe in the age of data breaches

The Gravy Analytics breach serves as a sobering reminder of the vulnerabilities in the digital age. While it’s impossible to control how every company handles data, you can take steps to minimize your exposure and protect your privacy. Here are five actionable tips to stay safe.

1) Limit app permissions: Many apps request access to location data, contacts and more, even when it’s not necessary for their functionality. Regularly review the permissions for apps on your smartphone and revoke access to anything that feels excessive. For instance, a weather app doesn’t need access to your microphone or camera.

2) Use a VPN: Virtual private networks (VPNs) can mask your IP address and encrypt your internet activity, making it harder for data brokers and hackers to track your online behavior. A good VPN adds an extra layer of security, especially when using public Wi-Fi networks. For the best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

3) Opt out of data sharing where possible: Some companies allow you to opt out of having your data collected or shared. Services like Your Ad Choices and privacy settings within platforms like Google can help you reduce the amount of data collected. Check for opt-out options with any apps or services you use frequently.

4) Avoid free apps that monetize data: Free apps often generate revenue by selling user data. Instead, consider paid versions of apps that explicitly prioritize privacy. Research the company behind the app to understand its data handling policies before downloading.

5) Invest in data removal services: Data removal services can help you regain some control over your personal information by identifying and removing it from people-search websites, data broker platforms and other online databases. Check out my top picks for data removal services here.

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Kurt’s key takeaway

Companies that collect and sell user data pose a significant threat to privacy, and when they fail to protect this data, it often ends up in the hands of even worse actors. Cybercriminals, and even some governments, can exploit this information to target individuals. It is crucial to implement stringent repercussions for these companies when they fail in their duty to safeguard user data. A mere slap on the wrist is not enough. We need real accountability to deter negligence and protect individual privacy rights.

Should companies face stronger penalties for failing to protect personal data? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.

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Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

January 23, 2025
San Francisco Centre Bloomingdale’s location closing

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Bloomingdale’s plans to shutter its massive store within the San Francisco Centre shopping mall in the coming months.

The brand, owned by Macy’s, said in a statement to FOX Business that the location within the mall “will remain open until late spring 2025” and then close its doors.

Bloomingdale’s location within the San Francisco Centre, a shopping mall near the city’s downtown Union Square area, spans nearly 339,000 square feet, according to a leasing brochure.

A shopper carries Bloomingdale’s bags in San Francisco on July 25, 2024. (David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images / Getty Images)

Bloomingdale’s also said that San Francisco “has been home to the brand for nearly two incredible decades” and that it was “hopeful to be back to serve the San Francisco community in the future and look[s] forward to introducing new ways to provide enhanced service to our loyal local shoppers.”

MICHAEL KORS CLOSES ITS DOWNTOWN SAN FRANCISCO STORE

The upcoming Bloomingdale’s exit, earlier reported by local media outlets, follows Michael Kors, a luxury brand known for its clothing and handbags, closing its store in the San Francisco Centre.

San Francisco Centre has lost tenants such as Adidas, American Eagle, J. Crew, Madewell, Aldo, Nordstrom and L’Occitane in recent years.

The Westfield San Francisco Centre shopping mall in San Francisco is seen on June 13, 2023. (David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images / Getty Images)

The mall remains home to Aritzia, Bath & Body Works, Coach, Kate Spade, Rolex, Ray Ban and Tumi, among others, according to its online store directory.

In June, the shopping mall said it had locked in leases for seven new companies. That included five for retail and two for offices, according to the San Francisco Chronicle.

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FOX Business reached out to Trident Pacific Real Estate Group, the firm that became the San Francisco Centre’s receiver in 2023, and JLL, the company listed on the mall’s website as managing the property, for comment on Bloomingdale’s leaving the location.

Mayor Daniel Lurie called Bloomingdale’s pull-out “disappointing” in an X post on Tuesday.

San Francisco took the top spot for the best city to visit during the Thanksgiving holiday in 2023, according to WalletHub. (iStock / iStock)

The broad Union Square area has faced its share of retail exits over the past couple of years. The reasons have varied, with some pointing to business conditions, lower foot traffic and shifts in the retail sector.

In the X post, Lurie added that he was “energized every day by businesses of all sizes opening and growing in our city” and that the city “continue[s] to work towards the revitalization of the city.”

“We are open for business here in San Francisco,” he said in an accompanying video. “We’re going to make sure downtown is safe and clean. We are going to start a new police task force focused on those people coming in for conventions, shoppers, visitors, making sure that they feel safe, just like we were able to do last week for JPMorgan’s healthcare conference and we will for the Lunar New Year parade celebrations and the NBA All Star Game.

A DOZEN WALGREENS STORES IN SAN FRANCISCO TO CLOSE

“There is a lot to look forward to in our city. We are going to get this right. You have my commitment that our department heads, my team are going to work tirelessly to make sure that we bring retailers, businesses, conventions back to San Francisco.”

January 23, 2025