Money stress needs more than a reminder to budget. This practical guide helps readers identify an immediate shortfall, prepare for a repayment discussion, manage repeated worry and find appropriate financial or emotional support. It also explains why lower instalments need careful checking before you agree.

riminals may hijack or imitate WhatsApp accounts to request money, steal information or promote fraudulent opportunities. Always verify unexpected requests outside WhatsApp before taking action.

Smart TVs can collect viewing history, app activity, searches and device information for recommendations, audience measurement and advertising. Evidence does not show that mainstream televisions routinely record every household conversation. Viewers can reduce tracking by disabling ACR, personalised advertising and unused voice features.

Dinokeng View and Menoatlou have been officially approved for registration as township names in the City of Tshwane. The Government Gazette lists them as new geographical names, rather than replacements for existing towns or suburbs. Members of the public may object within one month of publication.

City to City has introduced 17 new long-distance buses, with reclining seats, toilets, charging points and upgraded safety equipment. The coaches will serve routes linking Gauteng with Limpopo and the Eastern Cape. Here is what passengers can expect and what to confirm before booking.

PRASA says Mabopane trains now run every 20 minutes during peak periods as signalling improvements support more frequent services. Nationally, services have returned on 35 priority corridors, although some remain partially restored. Further work is needed to complete routes and extend improvements across Gauteng.

Ikara at The Verge Shopping Centre offers a modern taste of the Aegean with Greek dips, shared plates, seafood, grilled meats, and comforting dishes like moussaka. Its calm setting and communal menu make it a suitable choice for a relaxed weekend lunch with family or friends.

Johannesburg is using 273 million litres of water a day above its temporary limit. Rand Water says record consumption is straining the network, but municipal action, leak repairs and responsible water use could help stabilise reservoirs and lower the risk of supply reductions.

Lammie, Ramadiba and Mopane will remain at the Johannesburg Zoo after the Gauteng High Court dismissed an application seeking their relocation. The case failed on its legal basis, rather than through a final finding that the welfare concerns raised by the applicants were unfounded.

The “flying ants” surrounding Joburg’s lights after warm summer rain are often reproductive termites. Rain and other weather conditions trigger their dispersal, after which they shed their wings and attempt to form new colonies. Although some termites damage buildings, these insects also recycle plant material, improve soil and feed wildlife.