Published May 24, 2025 10:00am EDT close Improve your password security with your Windows PC From face recognition to dynamic lock, there are options you may be unfamiliar with. Passwords are outdated, and it's time for both tech companies and users to move on. There, I said it. Like it or not, the weakest link in cybersecurity is anything that relies on human input. While organizations continue to invest in firewalls and endpoint security, the most persistent vulnerability remains the human password.The internet has long struggled with poor password practices, but a recent discovery highlights just how serious the problem is. Security researchers have uncovered more than 19 billion newly leaked passwords, collected from hundreds of breaches between April 2024 and April 2025. An astonishing 94% of these passwords were either reused, predictable or both. Illustration of a hacker at work. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)What you need to knowBetween April 2024 and April 2025, data from nearly 200 separate cybersecurity incidents became publicly available, as discovered by Cybernews. These were not isolated events. They involved massive leak repositories including combolists, stealer logs and compromised databases. In total, over 3 terabytes of raw leaked data were analyzed, comprising more than 19 billion passwords. Only 6 percent of these, just over 1.1 billion, were unique.Among the most used passwords, "123456" appeared in over 338 million instances. Words like "Password" and "admin" followed close behind, despite years of public warnings. Such defaults often originate from devices like routers or enterprise tools, where they are rarely changed and frequently reused elsewhere.1.7 BILLION PASSWORDS LEAKED ON DARK WEB AND WHY YOURS IS AT RISKPersonal names remain a common pattern as well. The name "Ana" appeared in nearly 179 million passwords, followed by countless other first names and name-based combinations. Pop culture, food, cities and even swear words were frequent themes. Words like "Mario," "love," "pizza," "Rome" and various profanities were not just creative choices. They are now security liabilities.Even worse, attackers do not need to guess anymore. They have automation. Credential stuffing tools now run through billions of known passwords across hundreds of platforms, breaching accounts at success rates as high as two percent. That equates to thousands of compromised profiles, bank accounts, emails and cloud tools every single day. Illustration of a hacker at work. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)The bigger problemAccording to CyberNews researcher Neringa Macijauskaite, the core issue is not just weak passwords but how often they are reused. Only six percent of passwords are unique. For most users, security depends entirely on two-factor authentication, if it is enabled at all.Most passwords fall between eight to 10 characters, with eight being the most common. Around 27 percent of them contain only lowercase letters and digits, making them highly vulnerable to brute force attacks. Less than 20 percent use a mix of cases and numbers, and only a small fraction includes symbols.HOW SECURE IS MY PASSWORD? USE THIS TEST TO FIND OUTDespite widespread education efforts, user habits remain stagnant, but one positive trend has emerged. In 2022, only one percent of passwords used a mix of lowercase, uppercase, numbers and symbols. Now that figure has grown to 19 percent, likely driven by stricter password requirements across platforms.Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web. Illustration of a hacker at work. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)A password manager is the solutionReused or weak passwords pose a massive threat, not just to individuals but to organizations. A single compromised password can trigger a domino effect, exposing multiple accounts across services. Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords. Get more details about my best expert-reviewed Password Managers of 2025 here.Four ways to stay safe from password-stealing scammersProtecting your data requires a mix of smart security habits and reliable tools. Here are four effective ways to keep your information safe.1. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Even if your password is stolen, 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a code from an authentication app or biometric confirmation. Cybercriminals rely on stolen usernames and passwords to break into accounts, but with 2FA enabled, they cannot gain access without the additional security step. Make sure to enable 2FA on important accounts like email, banking and work-related logins.2. Use strong antivirus software and be cautious with downloads and links: Infostealer malware is the root cause of why your password is out there. It often spreads through malicious downloads, phishing emails and fake websites. Avoid downloading software or files from untrusted sources, and always double-check links before clicking them. Attackers disguise malware as legitimate software, game cheats or cracked applications, so it is best to stick to official websites and app stores for downloads.The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.3. Keep software updated: Cybercriminals exploit outdated software to deliver malware. Keeping your operating system, browsers, and security software up to date ensures that known vulnerabilities are patched. Enable automatic updates whenever possible, and install reputable antivirus or endpoint protection software that can detect and block infostealer threats before they compromise your system.4. Consider a personal data removal service: These services can help remove your personal information from data broker sites, reducing your risk of identity theft, spam and targeted scams. While no service can guarantee the complete removal of your data from the internet, a data removal service is really a smart choice. They aren’t cheap, and neither is your privacy. These services do all the work for you by actively monitoring and systematically erasing your personal information from hundreds of websites. It’s what gives me peace of mind and has proven to be the most effective way to erase your personal data from the internet. By limiting the information available, you reduce the risk of scammers cross-referencing data from breaches with information they might find on the dark web, making it harder for them to target you. Check out my top picks for data removal services here.Kurt's key takeaways When it comes down to it, passwords just aren't cutting it anymore. The sheer number of leaked passwords and the fact that so few are unique show how vulnerable we really are. Cybercriminals are getting smarter and faster, but we don't have to make it easy for them. By using password managers, enabling two-factor authentication, keeping our software updated and considering extra privacy tools, we can take back some control over this situation. It might take a little effort to change old habits, but the peace of mind you get is worth it.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPHow many of your accounts use the same password or a variation of it? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/ContactFor more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/NewsletterAsk Kurt a question or let us know what stories you'd like us to cover.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt: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.

close House passes bill targeting revenge porn and AI-generated deepfakes Texas high school student Elliston Berry joins ‘Fox & Friends’ to discuss the House’s passage of a new bill that criminalizes the sharing of non-consensual intimate images, including content created with artificial intelligence. Welcome to Fox News’ Artificial Intelligence newsletter with the latest AI technology advancements.IN TODAY'S NEWSLETTER:- Peek-a-boo, big tech sees you: Expert warns just 20 cloud images can make an AI deepfake video of your child- 5 AI terms you keep hearing and what they actually mean- AI to monitor NYC subway safety as crime concerns rise First Lady Melania Trump, joined by U.S. President Donald Trump, delivers remarks before President Trump signed the TAKE IT DOWN Act into law in the Rose Garden of the White House on May 19, 2025 in Washington, DC. The first lady made the Tools to Address Known Exploitation by Immobilizing Technological Deepfakes on Websites and Networks (TAKE IT DOWN) Act a priority, traveling to Capitol Hill to lobby lawmakers and show her support for the legislation, which addresses non-consensual intimate imagery, or "revenge porn," and artificial intelligence deepfakes posted online and to social media.  (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)DEEPFAKE DANGERS: Parents love capturing their kids’ big moments, from first steps to birthday candles. But a new study out of the U.K. shows many of those treasured images may be scanned, analyzed and turned into data by cloud storage services, and nearly half of parents don’t even realize it.AI DECODED: Whether it's powering your phone’s autocorrect or helping someone create a new recipe with a few words, artificial intelligence (AI) is everywhere right now. But if you're still nodding along when someone mentions "neural networks" or "generative AI," you're not alone. MTA New York City Subway logo is seen on a train at a station in New York City on July 13, 2024.  (Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto via Getty Images)BIG BROTHER TECH: New York City's subway system is testing artificial intelligence to boost security and reduce crime. Michael Kemper, a 33-year NYPD veteran and the chief security officer for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), which is the largest transit agency in the United States, is leading the rollout of AI software designed to spot suspicious behavior as it happens. WORLD CLASS: First lady Melania Trump is launching an audiobook of her memoir using artificial intelligence (AI) audio technology in multiple languages, Fox News Digital has learned. Melania Trump is launching an audiobook of her memoir using AI.  (MelaniaTrump.com)EXTREME ROBODOG: What really sets the Lynx M20 apart is its use of advanced artificial intelligence. The robot is equipped with AI motion-control algorithms that allow it to autonomously perceive and adapt to its environment, adjusting its posture and gait to handle everything from rocky trails to debris-strewn ruins.PARENTS' NIGHTMARE: A Connecticut teen will stand trial Monday for the 2022 murder of a Fairfield Prep lacrosse player following a booze-fueled house party and a spat between students from different schools. Lynx M20. (Deep Robotics)FOLLOW FOX NEWS ON SOCIAL MEDIASIGN UP FOR OUR OTHER NEWSLETTERSDOWNLOAD OUR APPSWATCH FOX NEWS ONLINEFox News GoSTREAM FOX NATIONFox NationStay up to date on the latest AI technology advancements and learn about the challenges and opportunities AI presents now and for the future with Fox News here. This article was written by Fox News staff.

Published May 24, 2025 6:00am EDT close AI exoskeleton gives wheelchair users the freedom to walk again Wandercraft's Personal Exoskeleton is about helping people stand tall, connect with others and live life on their own terms. For Caroline Laubach, being a Wandercraft test pilot is about more than just trying out new technology. It's about reclaiming a sense of freedom and connection that many wheelchair users miss. Laubach, a spinal stroke survivor and full-time wheelchair user, has played a key role in demonstrating the personal AI-powered prototype exoskeleton's development, and her experience highlights just how life-changing this device can be."When I'm in the exoskeleton, I feel more free than I do in my daily life," said Laubach. "It gives me the opportunity to walk around and talk to people at eye level. I don't have to look up at people all the time. "It makes me feel more visible and able to connect with others. One thing I noticed right away, was how inclusive the exoskeleton would be to a wide variety of disabilities. The goal is to have disabled people able to use this exoskeleton to live their daily life out in the world; I can definitely see that happening in the future." Laubach's story is at the heart of Wandercraft's mission: to help people move through the world with greater walking independence and upright mobility. Caroline Laubach walking in the Prototype Personal Exoskeleton at Nvidia GTC 2025. (Wandercraft)A personal mission becomes a global visionWandercraft's journey began with a personal challenge. Nicolas Simon, the company's co-founder, saw his own family members struggle with mobility due to Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a genetic condition. As a student and robotics enthusiast, Simon wanted to create something that could help his brother and others like him walk again. Alongside Matthieu Masselin and Jean-Louis Constanza, who also had a personal connection to the cause, Simon founded Wandercraft in 2012.AI ENABLES PARALYZED MAN TO CONTROL ROBOTIC ARM WITH BRAIN SIGNALSTheir goal was simple but ambitious: to bring advanced mobility solutions to the estimated 80 million people worldwide who rely on wheelchairs. A man using an exoskeleton to walk. (Wandercraft)From clinics to everyday lifeWandercraft's first exoskeleton, Atalante X, is already making a difference in over 100 clinics and research centers worldwide. This device, cleared by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and approved in Europe, helps patients take over a million steps each month as part of their rehabilitation. It has already helped hundreds regain some mobility and independence.But Wandercraft wanted to go further. The new Personal Exoskeleton protoype, now in clinical trials in New York and New Jersey, is designed for daily life, at home, at work, and out in the community. It uses NVIDIA AI to adapt instantly to each user's movements, providing smooth, stable walking on all sorts of surfaces, from sidewalks to carpets. Users control the exoskeleton with a joystick, making it accessible to people with a wide range of abilities. A man using an exoskeleton to walk. (Wandercraft)How AI and simulation make it possibleA big part of Wandercraft's progress comes from its partnership with Nvidia. The team uses Nvidia Isaac Sim, a powerful simulation tool, to test and improve the exoskeleton in virtual environments before real-world trials. They're also exploring Nvidia's healthcare robotics and edge computing platforms to make the device smarter and more responsive.This technology means the exoskeleton can someday keep up with everyday life, walking at a normal pace, crossing streets, and even handling stairs. As Simon puts it, "It's essential for the exoskeleton to be fast enough that it can be used in the real world. By integrating NVIDIA AI into the device, we can someday enable users to walk at an average pace, cross the road, and go up and down stairs."BIOTECH CEO PREDICTS 'REVOLUTIONARY' STEPS TOWARD CURING CANCER ON HORIZON THANKS TO AI A man using an exoskeleton to walk. (Wandercraft)More than mobility: health and social benefitsWandercraft's commitment to improving lives goes beyond just building exoskeletons. In the heart of Manhattan, the company has opened Walk in New York by Wandercraft, a state-of-the-art physical therapy practice and Atalante X walk center located at 345 Park Avenue South. This groundbreaking center is the first of its kind in the U.S. and represents a partnership between Wandercraft and licensed physical therapy professionals to help individuals with neurological conditions move more, move better and move again.At Walk in New York, movement is truly seen as medicine. The center offers personalized screenings with licensed physical therapists, hands-free walking sessions using the Atalante X exoskeleton, and comprehensive neurorehabilitation services. Patients can experience walking again in a safe, professional environment, regardless of their trunk or upper body strength. Each therapy plan is tailored to the individual, and progress is tracked objectively to ensure the best possible outcomes.The technology at Walk in New York goes beyond exoskeletons. The center features virtual reality systems for real-time movement feedback, mirror therapy to promote motor recovery, advanced gait analysis, and immersive environments that make rehabilitation more engaging and effective.Walk in New York is also set to become the hub for Wandercraft's Personal Exoskeleton, where individuals will be able to receive their own devices, undergo training, and access ongoing support as this technology becomes available for everyday use. The center's focus on personalized care and innovation makes it a welcoming space for anyone interested in rediscovering mobility, whether for themselves or a loved one.At Walk in New York, the belief is simple: movement is medicine, and everyone deserves the chance to move through life with confidence and independence. Walk in New York. (Wandercraft)What's next for WandercraftWandercraft is working toward FDA approval for the Personal Exoskeleton, with hopes of making it available to millions of wheelchair users in the U.S. and beyond. The company is actively recruiting participants for its clinical trials and is committed to making this technology accessible, with plans for Medicare coverage in the future.Are you an adult 18 or older with a complete or incomplete motor SCI at or above the T6 vertebra? If so, you might be eligible for our clinical trial. To participate, you'll need a physically able companion to assist you during sessions. If you don't have someone in mind, don't worry, Wandercraft is creating a volunteer network to help connect trial participants with companions. Both patients and companions should be able to speak English or communicate well with a translator. If you meet these criteria, or if you're interested in volunteering as a companion, you can reach out to Wandercraft by emailing them at clinicaltrials@wandercraft.healthWHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)? A man using an exoskeleton to walk. (Wandercraft)A brighter future for mobilityDespite all the advances in technology over the past few decades, tens of millions of people still rely on wheelchairs. Wandercraft's Personal Exoskeleton, shaped by the real-life experiences of test pilots like Laubach, is offering a new way forward, one that brings freedom, independence and a renewed sense of possibility. A man using an exoskeleton to walk. (Wandercraft)Kurt's key takeawaysLaubach's story really shows how powerful this technology can be when it is designed with real people in mind. Wandercraft's Personal Exoskeleton isn't just about robotics or AI; it's about helping people stand tall, connect with others, and live life on their own terms. Every step taken with this device brings that vision closer to reality, making the future of mobility feel more hopeful and within reach than ever before.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPIn what ways could AI-driven wearable robotics reshape how we think about disability and independence? Let us know by writing us atCyberguy.com/ContactFor more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/NewsletterAsk Kurt a question or let us know what stories you'd like us to cover.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt: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.

Published May 23, 2025 10:00am EDT close Expert warns artificial general intelligence could be more dangerous than a nuclear weapon Tyler Saltsman, founder and CEO of EdgeRunner AI, warns that creating artificial general intelligence could "destroy the world as we know it." Whether it's powering your phone’s autocorrect or helping someone create a new recipe with a few words, artificial intelligence (AI) is everywhere right now. But if you're still nodding along when someone mentions "neural networks" or "generative AI," you're not alone.Today I am breaking down five buzzy AI terms that you've probably seen in headlines, group chats or app updates, minus the tech talk. Understanding these basics will help you talk AI with confidence, even if you’re not a programmer.Stay tuned for more in this series as we dive deeper into privacy-related tech terms and other essential concepts, answering the top questions we get from readers like you.JOIN THE FREE ‘CYBERGUY REPORT’: GET MY EXPERT TECH TIPS, CRITICAL SECURITY ALERTS AND EXCLUSIVE DEALS, PLUS INSTANT ACCESS TO MY FREE ‘ULTIMATE SCAM SURVIVAL GUIDE’ WHEN YOU SIGN UP! Visual Illustration of AI (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)1. Artificial intelligence (AI)The big umbrella term Artificial Intelligence is a broad term for computer systems that can do tasks normally requiring human intelligence. That includes understanding language, recognizing images, making decisions and even learning from experience.You’re using AI when:Your email suggests repliesYour phone transcribes your voiceNetflix recommends what to watch nextThink of AI as the category; everything else on this list is a branch of it. It’s the foundation for all the smart tools we use today, from voice assistants to facial recognition. As AI continues to evolve, it has the power to make everyday tasks easier, faster and more personalized. But as it becomes more embedded in our lives, understanding the basics is key to using it wisely and protecting your digital autonomy.2. Machine learning (ML)How AI learns patternsMachine Learning is a type of AI that learns from data instead of being explicitly programmed. It improves over time by finding patterns and making predictions.For example: You like action movies. You watch a few. Over time, the algorithm learns your preferences and recommends similar titles, even if you didn’t say anything directly.Common uses of ML:Spam filters in emailFraud detection in bankingPersonalized playlistsML is how AI "gets smarter" by itself, and it's a big part of how tech becomes more helpful and intuitive. From catching suspicious charges on your credit card to curating your favorite music, machine learning can make life more seamless and even safer. But as with any technology, it’s important to stay aware of how your data is being used and who’s doing the learning. The more we understand how it works, the better we can decide how and when to trust it.3. Neural networkThe tech that mimics your brainNeural Networks are a special kind of machine learning designed to mimic how the human brain works, at least loosely. They're made up of layers of "neurons" that process data and make decisions.They’re particularly good at recognizing complex patterns, like identifying faces in photos or translating languages.Use cases include:Face ID unlocking your phoneSpeech-to-text appsTranslating text in real timeIf AI is the brain, neural networks are the brain cells doing the work. Neural networks are the part of AI that actually processes information. They’re designed to mimic how human brains work, taking in data, learning patterns and making decisions. So, when AI recognizes a face, writes a sentence or makes a suggestion, it’s neural networks making that happen behind the scenes. Illustration of humans and machine learning (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)FOX NEWS AI NEWSLETTER: THE SCHOOL WHERE AI RUNS THE CLASSROOM4. Generative AIAI that creates, not just predictsGenerative AI doesn’t just analyze data, it creates new stuff: text, images, videos, code, music, even voices. It’s trained on huge amounts of content and learns how to generate something new that mimics the original.You’ve seen it in action if you’ve used:ChatGPT or similar bots to write messagesAI art generators like Midjourney or DALL·EAuto-generated captions or social media copyIt’s like giving a machine a vibe and watching it invent something that fits. Generative AI is creative, fast and sometimes uncannily realistic, which is what makes it both exciting and a little unsettling.Think you can tell the difference?Be sure to play my game to guess which photo is AI and which one is real. It’s harder than you think and a good reminder that as these tools get more advanced, staying alert and informed is more important than ever.WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)? Find the fake kitten. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)5. PromptThe magic words that make AI workA prompt is the input you give to an AI system, usually a question, command or description. It’s how you talk to tools like ChatGPT or image generators.The better your prompt, the better the result.Examples:"Write a birthday message in the style of Shakespeare""Create a recipe using only chickpeas and chocolate""Make an image of a robot drinking coffee in Paris, 1920s style"Prompts are to AI what questions are to Google, but with more creativity and conversation. Unlike a search engine that simply points you to existing content, AI can generate entirely new ideas, images and text based on what you ask. It’s more than a search box; it’s a creative tool. Whether you’re drafting a story, designing a logo or planning a vacation, learning how to prompt effectively lets you tap into AI’s full potential as a collaborator, not just an information source.Kurt’s key takeawaysYou don’t need a computer science degree to understand AI, just a few solid definitions. From machine learning and neural networks to generative AI and prompts, these tools are no longer reserved for tech labs; they're becoming part of your everyday life. Whether it’s helping you write an email, organize your photos or get dinner ideas based on what’s in your fridge, AI is already working behind the scenes to make life a little easier (and sometimes a lot more interesting).Now that you’ve got the lingo down, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the AI-powered world with confidence and curiosity.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPWant to go deeper? Interested in how AI can improve your daily routine or looking for creative prompt ideas to get the most out of tools like ChatGPT? 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.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt: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.

Tech AI to monitor NYC subway safety as crime concerns rise AI-powered surveillance aims to prevent crime before it happens in Big Apple’s subway system Published May 23, 2025 6:00am EDT close 'Decoding Broken Hearts': AI used to advance heart health research Fox News anchor Bret Baier has the latest on the Murdoch Children's Research Institute's partnership with the Gladstone Institutes for the "Decoding Broken Hearts" initiative on "Special Report." Imagine having a tireless guardian watching over you during your subway commute. It notices every detail with steady focus, all with one goal in mind: keeping you safe on the subway.New York City's subway system is testing artificial intelligence to boost security and reduce crime. Michael Kemper, a 33-year NYPD veteran and the chief security officer for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), which is the largest transit agency in the United States, is leading the rollout of AI software designed to spot suspicious behavior as it happens. The MTA says this technology represents the future of subway surveillance and reassures riders that privacy concerns are being taken seriously.JOIN THE FREE ‘CYBERGUY REPORT’: GET MY EXPERT TECH TIPS, CRITICAL SECURITY ALERTS AND EXCLUSIVE DEALS, PLUS INSTANT ACCESS TO MY FREE ‘ULTIMATE SCAM SURVIVAL GUIDE’ WHEN YOU SIGN UP! New York City subway (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?How AI surveillance will work in the New York City SubwayThe AI system will analyze real-time camera feeds across subway platforms and train cars to detect unusual or potentially dangerous behaviors. Instead of identifying individuals, the technology focuses on behavior patterns that might signal trouble, such as erratic movements or confrontations. When the AI flags something suspicious, it can alert transit police to respond quickly, which could help prevent crimes before they escalate.Currently, about 40% of subway cameras are monitored live by staff. The AI aims to expand this coverage without needing additional personnel, which could enhance safety across the system. While details about the AI providers and full deployment timelines have not been shared, the MTA emphasizes that facial recognition technology will not be part of this system. This is intended to protect rider privacy. A surveillance camera mounted on a building (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Crime trends and government responseCrime in NYC subways has seen ups and downs over recent years. While major crimes dropped by about 7.7% through mid-2024, assaults have unfortunately increased. To bolster safety, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul deployed 1,000 National Guard members to support transit police efforts. AI technology is viewed as a complementary tool in this broader strategy to keep subways safe, not a standalone solution.'DELUSIONAL' NYC POLITICIANS CALLED OUT BY GUARDIAN ANGELS FOUNDER OVER SUBWAY VIOLENCE: 'SLAP IN THE FACE' A police vehicle (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Is AI being used in public transit elsewhere?New York is not alone in exploring AI for transit security. Cities like Los Angeles and Chicago have experimented with AI-powered cameras for tasks ranging from weapons detection to issuing parking citations. These initiatives reflect a growing interest in using technology to enhance public safety in transit environments. Entrance to NYC subway (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Kurt's key takeawaysWhile the promise of AI surveillance is encouraging, several questions remain unanswered. We do not yet know exactly which behaviors the system will flag or how effective it will be in practice. Perhaps more importantly, privacy advocates and civil liberties groups warn about potential biases in AI systems and the risk of false positives that could unfairly target certain groups.The MTA's decision to exclude facial recognition is a positive step, but ongoing transparency and oversight will be crucial. Michael Kemper's extensive experience leading the NYPD's Transit Bureau, where he helped reduce subway crime, adds credibility to the initiative. Still, as this technology rolls out, balancing safety with privacy and fairness will be key to earning public trust.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPWould you trust AI to watch over you in the subway or are you more concerned about your privacy? Let us know by writing us atCyberguy.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.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt: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.

By Nick Butler Fox News Published May 22, 2025 6:42pm EDT close New space capsule just changed the game for bringing stuff back from orbit A European startup successfully completed the first orbital test flight of its Phoenix 1 re-entry space capsule. NASA revived roll thrusters on the 47-year-old Voyager 1 that were thought to be dead for two decades.According to the space agency, scientists at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory of NASA, located in Southern California, have reactivated a set of thrusters on the spacecraft.The roll thrusters have not worked since 2004 and are long believed to have been out of commission.These thrusters are important because Voyager's main thrusters appear to have some residue forming that could cause them to clog. Scientists estimate those thrusters could fail as early as Fall 2025.NASA ASTRONAUT REVEALS THEY NEARLY FAILED TO DOCK BOEING STARLINER TO INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION Voyager 1 had its thrusters revived after nearly two decades of being thought dead and out of commission. (Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech)The antenna on Earth responsible for sending commands to both Voyager 1 and Voyager 2 will be offline for several months.Deep Space Station 43, a 230-foot-wide antenna in Australia, will be offline until February 2026 due to needed upgrades.While that antenna is being upgraded, the team at NASA will not be able to communicate with the twin space probes.NASA FINALIZES STRATEGY FOR HUMAN PRESENCE IN SPACE The NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California. The JPL has been working on restoring the thrusters on the Voyager 1. (NASA/JPL-Caltech)Suzanne Dodd, Voyager project manager and director of the Interplanetary Network at JPL, said these upgrades are important for future Moon missions."These antenna upgrades are important for future crewed lunar landings, and they also increase communications capacity for our science missions in deep space, some of which are building on the discoveries Voyager made," Dodd said in a press release.Each Voyager has a set of primary thrusters that control movement in all directions as well as smaller thrusters for what is called roll control.Using the smaller thrusters allows the Voyager’s antenna to stay aligned with Earth, so the scientists can communicate with it. NASA's deep space antenna in Australia is currently going through upgrades causing any communication with Voyager 1 and Voyager 2 to go dark until 2026, when the Antenna is reactivated. (STEFANI REYNOLDS/AFP via Getty Images)While there is a third set of thrusters, which were brought back online in 2018 and 2019, Voyager does not have the capability to perform the roll adjustments needed to keep a connection with Earth.If Earth happened to lose connection with Voyager 1, it would be nearly impossible to restore communication.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPVoyager 1 was launched in 1977 and has traveled nearly 15 billion miles away and is currently exploring interstellar space, which is beyond our Solar System.Both Voyager 1 and Voyager 2 have traveled farther than any other human-made objects. Voyager 1's notable discoveries include finding a thin ring around Jupiter, along with 2 moons orbiting the Solar System's largest planet that had not been seen before. It also discovered five moons orbiting Saturn, along with a previously unknown ring around the gas giant.  Nick Butler is a reporter for Fox News Digital. Do you have any tips? Reach out to Nick.Butler@Fox.com. Nick Butler is a Breaking and Trending News Writer for Fox News Digital.

Published May 22, 2025 10:00am EDT close 'CyberGuy' praises Trump admin for Take It Down Act Kurt Knutsson joins "Fox & Friends" to discuss President Donald Trump's Take It Down Act and Meta avoiding removing scam ads from its platforms.  Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, is under fire after a major report revealed that thousands of fraudulent ads have been allowed to run on its platforms. According to the Wall Street Journal, Meta accounted for nearly half of all scam complaints tied to Zelle transactions at JPMorgan Chase between mid-2023 and mid-2024. Other banks have also reported a high number of fraud cases linked to Meta's platforms.JOIN THE FREE "CYBERGUY REPORT": GET MY EXPERT TECH TIPS, CRITICAL SECURITY ALERTS AND EXCLUSIVE DEALS, PLUS INSTANT ACCESS TO MY FREE "ULTIMATE SCAM SURVIVAL GUIDE" WHEN YOU SIGN UP! Meta logo (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Why are scam ads so widespread?The problem of scam ads on Facebook has grown rapidly in recent years. Experts point to the rise of cryptocurrency schemes, AI-generated content and organized criminal groups operating from Southeast Asia. These scams range from fake investment opportunities to misleading product offers and even the sale of nonexistent puppies.FBI WARNS OF SCAM TARGETING VICTIMS WITH FAKE HOSPITALS AND POLICEOne example involves Edgar Guzman, a legitimate business owner in Atlanta, whose warehouse address was used by scammers in more than 4,400 Facebook and Instagram ads. These ads promised deep discounts on bulk merchandise, tricking people into sending money for products that never existed."What sucks is we have to break it to people that they've been scammed. We don't even do online sales," Guzman told reporters. Facebook login page on a laptop (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Meta's response: Is it enough?Meta says it's fighting back with new technology and partnerships, including facial-recognition tools and collaborations with banks and other tech companies. A spokesperson described the situation as an "epidemic of scams" and insisted that Meta is taking aggressive action, removing more than 2 million accounts linked to scam centers in several countries this year alone.However, insiders tell a different story. Current and former Meta employees say the company has been reluctant to make it harder for advertisers to buy ads, fearing it could hurt the company's bottom line. Staff reportedly tolerated between eight and 32 fraud "strikes" before banning accounts and scam enforcement was deprioritized to avoid losing ad revenue. META ENDS FACT-CHECKING PROGRAM AS ZUCKERBERG VOWS TO RESTORE FREE EXPRESSION ON FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM Instagram on a smartphone (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)The human cost of inactionVictims of these scams often lose hundreds or even thousands of dollars. In one case, fake ads promised free spice racks from McCormick & Co. for just a small shipping fee, only to steal credit card details and rack up fraudulent charges. Another common scam involves fake puppy sales, with victims sending deposits for pets that never arrive. Some scam operations are even linked to human trafficking, with criminal groups forcing kidnapped victims to run online fraud schemes under threat of violence.Legal and ethical questions for MetaMeta maintains that it is not legally responsible for fraudulent content on its platforms, citing Section 230 of federal law, which protects tech companies from liability for user-generated content. In court filings, Meta has argued that it "does not owe a duty to users" when it comes to policing fraud. Meanwhile, a class-action lawsuit over allegedly inflated ad reach metrics is moving forward, putting even more pressure on Meta to address transparency and accountability.How to protect yourself from scam adsStaying safe online takes a little extra effort, but it's well worth it. Here are some steps you can follow to avoid falling victim to scam ads.1. Check the source and use strong antivirus software: Look for verified pages and official websites. Scammers often copy the names and logos of trusted brands, but the web address or page details may be off. Always double-check the URL for slight misspellings or extra characters and avoid clicking links in ads if you're unsure about their legitimacy.The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.2. Be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true: If an ad offers products at an unbelievable price or promises huge returns, pause and investigate before clicking. Scammers often use flashy discounts or urgent language to lure people in quickly. Take a moment to think before you act, and remember that if something sounds impossible, it probably is. 3. Research the seller: Search for reviews and complaints about the company or individual. If you can't find any credible information, it's best to avoid the offer. A quick online search can reveal if others have reported scams or had bad experiences, and legitimate businesses usually have a track record you can verify.4. Consider using a personal data removal service: There are companies that can help remove your personal info from data brokers and people-search sites. This means less of your data floating around for scammers to find and use. While these services usually charge a fee, they can save you a lot of time and hassle compared to doing it all yourself. Over time, you might notice fewer spam calls, emails and even a lower risk of identity theft. Check out my top picks for data removal services here.5. Never share sensitive information: Don't enter your credit card or bank details on unfamiliar sites. If you're asked for personal information, double-check the legitimacy of the request. Scammers may ask for sensitive data under the guise of "verifying your identity" or processing a payment, but reputable companies will never ask for this through insecure channels.6. Keep your devices updated: Keeping your software updated adds an extra layer of protection against the latest threats. Updates often include important security patches that fix vulnerabilities hackers might try to exploit. By regularly updating your devices, you help close those security gaps and keep your personal information safer from scammers and malware. 7. Report suspicious ads: If you see a scam ad on Facebook or Instagram, report it using the platform's tools. This helps alert others and puts pressure on Meta to take action. Reporting is quick and anonymous, and it plays a crucial role in helping platforms identify patterns and remove harmful content.8. Monitor your accounts: Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions, especially after making online purchases. Early detection can help you limit the damage if your information is compromised, and most banks have fraud protection services that can assist you if you spot something suspicious.By following these steps, you can better protect yourself and your finances from online scams. Staying alert and informed is your best defense in today's digital world.Kurt's key takeawaysThe mess with scam ads on Meta's platforms shows why it's important to look out for yourself online. Meta says it's working on the problem, but many people think it's not moving fast enough. By staying careful, questioning suspicious offers and using good security tools, you can keep yourself safer. Until the platforms step up their game, protecting yourself is the smartest move you can make.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPShould Meta be doing more to protect its users from scam ads, even if it means making changes that could affect its advertising revenue? Let us know by writing us atCyberguy.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.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt: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.

Tech Wheeled, rugged robot dog built for extreme industrial missions New robot to revolutionize industrial inspection and disaster response Published May 22, 2025 6:00am EDT close Wheeled, rugged robot dog built for extreme industrial missions The machine is designed to inspect industrial sites, respond to disasters, carry out logistics operations and support scientific research. Deep Robotics, a company from China, has unveiled a durable four-legged robot built to operate in extreme environments that humans struggle to traverse. It's called the Lynx M20, and it builds upon the agility of its predecessor, the Lynx robot dog.This versatile machine is designed to handle anything from inspecting industrial sites and responding to disasters to carrying out logistics operations and supporting scientific research. Here’s what you need to know.JOIN THE FREE "CYBERGUY REPORT": GET MY EXPERT TECH TIPS, CRITICAL SECURITY ALERTS AND EXCLUSIVE DEALS, PLUS INSTANT ACCESS TO MY FREE "ULTIMATE SCAM SURVIVAL GUIDE" WHEN YOU SIGN UP! Lynx M20 (Deep Robotics)Advanced terrain capabilities set the Lynx M20 apartThe Lynx M20 combines wheels and legs to traverse challenging terrain. It can move at an average speed of 4.5 mph, but in optimal conditions, it can go up to 11 mph. It can also walk and climb obstacles using its independent wheel-locking mechanism. Its impressive traversal makes it able to cross rugged mountain paths, muddy wetlands and urban ruins.The Lynx M20 is also great at navigation and monitoring, with its 96-line lidar system, which gives it 360-degree awareness. It also has a front-facing wide-angle camera capable of livestreaming and bidirectional lighting for venturing into dark environments.AI-powered intelligence for real-world challengesWhat really sets the Lynx M20 apart is its use of advanced artificial intelligence. The robot is equipped with AI motion-control algorithms that allow it to autonomously perceive and adapt to its environment, adjusting its posture and gait to handle everything from rocky trails to debris-strewn ruins.Thanks to reinforcement learning, the Lynx M20 can actually improve its performance over time, learning from experience so that it gets even better at tackling new or unexpected obstacles. This means it's not just following a set of pre-programmed instructions but is actively making decisions and getting smarter with every mission.The robot's dual 96-line lidar sensors and wide-angle cameras feed data into its onboard processors, enabling real-time mapping, omnidirectional obstacle avoidance and autonomous navigation, even in low visibility or completely dark environments.WORLD'S FIRST AI-POWERED INDUSTRIAL SUPER-HUMANOID ROBOT Lynx M20 (Deep Robotics)IP66 rated: Built to be toughThe Lynx M20 features IP66 water and dust resistance and operates in temperatures from minus 4 degrees Fahrenheit to 131 degrees Fahrenheit. This toughness makes it suitable for harsh weather conditions. Weighing 72.8 pounds, it can carry up to a 33-pound payload, climb 31.5-inch obstacles and navigate 45-degree inclines. The robot runs for 2.5 to 3 hours per charge with a hot-swap battery system to keep it going longer. Lynx M20 (Deep Robotics)The pro variant has advanced featuresThe Lynx M20 also has a Pro version, which includes autonomous charging, SLAM-based positioning and advanced navigation tools. It has more connectivity options, like USB and Gigabit Ethernet, to enhance its functionality.PricingThe price of the Lynx M20 is unknown as Deep Robotics has yet to reveal the details. However, its standard Lynx robodog is estimated to cost around $18,000, meaning this could cost more.CHINA'S TRON 1 ROBOT HURDLES OVER OBSTACLES LIKE THEY'RE NOTHING Lynx M20 (Deep Robotics)What does this mean for you?If you work in industries like construction, energy, logistics or emergency response, the Lynx M20 could be a game changer. Its ability to handle rough terrain, carry heavy loads and operate in extreme weather means you can send it into places that are risky or even impossible for people to reach.Whether it is inspecting power lines after a storm, delivering supplies across a muddy worksite or helping out in disaster zones, this robot is designed to keep your team safer and your operations running smoothly. Its hot-swap battery system also means less downtime, so you can rely on it for long shifts without constant recharging interruptions.Kurt's key takeawaysThe Lynx M20 isn't just any robot. It's a tough, smart machine built to handle some of the hardest jobs out there. By combining wheels and legs, it moves in ways that most robots can't, making it perfect for tricky terrain and tough conditions.We don't know the exact price yet, but judging by what it offers, it's clearly designed for serious work. If you're dealing with challenging environments and need a reliable helper, this robot might just be the partner you've been waiting for.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPWhat are your thoughts on how industrial inspection robots like this might transform workplace safety and efficiency? 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.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt: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.

Published May 21, 2025 10:00am EDT close 'There's no sense of privacy involved': 'CyberGuy' warns AI users' privacy could be at risk Tech expert Kurt Knutsson discusses tips on how to protect your data amid AI privacy concerns and Ford filing a patent to bring the stick shift to electric vehicles.  Removing your personal information from people-search sites can feel pretty overwhelming. There are hundreds of these sites in the U.S. alone. In fact, the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse says there are over 500 companies that collect and sell personal information. At first, it might seem impossible to get your details removed from all of them. But here's the good news: You don't need to tackle every single site. Your information isn't on all 500-plus sites. With a bit of time and persistence, you can remove your info from the major ones, and every removal really counts. Let me show you exactly how to do it yourself.JOIN THE FREE "CYBERGUY REPORT": GET MY EXPERT TECH TIPS, CRITICAL SECURITY ALERTS AND EXCLUSIVE DEALS, PLUS INSTANT ACCESS TO MY FREE "ULTIMATE SCAM SURVIVAL GUIDE" WHEN YOU SIGN UP! A woman scrolling on her laptop (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)First, find which people-search sites have your infoThe process will be easier if you have a list of people-search sites that have your personal information. Not only can you check them off as you go, but you'll also need a list for the last step. The easiest place to start is with a free scan that some data removal services provide. These scans automatically check a ton of people-search sites for your personal information and send you a report. You can also search for your full name on Google. This will probably bring up a mix of results, including your social media profiles. THINK YOU CAN DELETE YOUR DATA YOURSELF? HERE'S WHY YOU'RE PROBABLY WRONGThe bigger your online presence, the more search results you'll likely have to sift through to find the people-search sites. I recommend searching for your name together with other personal details, like your email, phone number or home address. For some reason, this is more likely to bring up people-search sites, different ones depending on the combination of personal details you try. You may not be able to find all the people-search sites that have your info like this, though. You should also check any state-specific people-search sites, like StateofFlorida.com, and search all of the most popular people-search sites like:WhitepagesSpokeoBeenVerifiedInteliusMyLifePeopleFindersRadarisTruthFinderFastPeopleSearchInstant CheckmateKeep in mind that many smaller or niche sites exist, especially those that are state or region-specific. These sites can be harder to find but may still have your information. Using scanning tools or data removal services can help uncover these less obvious listings.Follow the opt-out process for each siteEvery people-search site has its own opt-out process, but most of them will require you to do something like this:Find your listing: You'll usually need to search for your name, phone number, address or email on the site.Submit a removal request: Most sites have an online form where you can request removal. Look for links that say "Opt-Out," "Do Not Sell My Info" or "Privacy Rights," which are usually found in the website footer.Verify your request: Most sites will send you a confirmation email with a link you'll need to click. Some ask for a phone call verification. A few people-search sites request documents, like a photo ID (I recommend avoiding sending sensitive documents unless absolutely necessary). If a site insists on ID verification, try contacting their support to ask about alternative methods or consider skipping that site if you're uncomfortable.TOP 20 APPS TRACKING YOU EVERY DAYPro tip: Use a separate email address for opt-out requestsMany sites require email verification. Using your regular email can expose it to spam or further data collection. Creating a dedicated or alias email address just for these requests helps protect your primary inbox and keeps things organized. Also, using various email aliases makes it so you don't have to worry about all your info getting taken in a data breach. An email alias address is a great way for you to stop receiving constant spam mail by simply deleting the email alias address. See my review of the best secure and private email services here. A woman working on her laptop (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Phone verification and a secondary number If a site requires phone verification, consider using a secondary number to avoid exposing your personal phone number. Services like Google Voice can provide you with a secondary number that you can use for online activities, keeping your primary number private. The process should take between five and 20 minutes for each site on your list, depending on how difficult they make it for you. But once you submit the request, removal is usually pretty quick. Your information should be off the site within 24 hours to a week, though it can sometimes take up to 30 days.Don't forget about Google search resultsPeople-search sites aren't the only places your info can pop up. Sometimes your personal info appears directly in Google search results, pulled from public records or other sites. If you find sensitive info in Google results, you can request removal through Google's own removal tools, especially if the info includes things like your Social Security number, bank account info or images you don't want to be public. This is a separate process, but it is worth doing alongside removing info from people-search sites. Google Search image (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Keep in mind, this isn't a one-and-done dealEven after you remove your info, there's a good chance it'll show up again. People-search sites constantly scrape public records and other databases to refresh their listings. Some sites offer "suppression lists" you can add your name to, but it's not a perfect system. Small changes, like a slightly different address, a new phone number or a missing middle name, can slip past their filters and pop up as a "new" profile.The best way to stay on top of it is to set a reminder to recheck the main people-search sites every few months and repeat the opt-out process when needed. Maintaining a detailed tracker or spreadsheet with the sites you've contacted, dates and confirmation info can make this easier and help you avoid missing any sites. A woman working on her laptop and scrolling on her phone (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)​​A quick note on your rights (updated for 2025)There is still no federal data privacy law in the U.S. that grants everyone the automatic right to opt out of people-search sites. However, the landscape is changing quickly at the state level. As of 2025, at least thirteen states have passed comprehensive privacy laws that give residents stronger opt-out rights, including:California (California Consumer Privacy Act/California Privacy Rights Act - CCPA/CPRA)Virginia (Virginia Consumer Data Protection Act - VCDPA)Colorado (Colorado Privacy Act - CPA)Connecticut (Connecticut Data Privacy Act - CTDPA)Utah (Utah Consumer Privacy Act - UCPA)Delaware (Delaware Personal Data Privacy Act - DPDPA)Iowa (Iowa Consumer Data Protection Act - ICDPA)Nebraska (Nebraska Data Privacy Act - NDPA)New Hampshire (New Hampshire Data Privacy Act - NHDPA)New Jersey (New Jersey Data Privacy Act - NJDPA)Tennessee (Tennessee Information Protection Act - TIPA)Minnesota (Minnesota Consumer Data Privacy Act - MCDPA)Maryland (Maryland Online Data Privacy Act - MODPA)If you live in one of these states, you now have a much stronger legal footing to demand that people-search sites remove your information. Many of these laws require companies to honor requests to opt out of the sale or sharing of your personal data, and some even require businesses to respect browser-based global opt-out signals. But even if you don't live in one of these states, you should still submit removal requests. Most people-search sites do not filter opt-out requests by state; they generally process any request they receive to avoid potential legal issues, regardless of your location.If this sounds like too much work, there's helpRemoving your data manually takes real time and commitment, especially since you have to keep doing it to stay off these sites. That's why many people turn to personal data removal services. Instead of going site by site yourself, a service can automatically send removal requests on your behalf, track the responses and re-request removals if your data reappears later.While no service promises to remove all your data from the internet, having a removal service is great if you want to constantly monitor and automate the process of removing your information from hundreds of sites continuously over a longer period of time. Check out my top picks for data removal services here.Kurt's key takeawaysManual removal is free and gives you full control, but it takes time and requires ongoing effort. Automated services cost money but save you time, handle rechecks and can catch new listings faster. Choose what best fits your budget and privacy needs. If you follow these steps and stay consistent, you can take back control of your personal information online. It might take some work, but every removal counts toward protecting your privacy.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPDo you think it should be your job to constantly remove your info from people-search sites or should companies and lawmakers be doing more to protect your privacy? 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.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt: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.

Tech Chevy makes history at Daytona 500 with first electric pace car NASCAR’s first electric pace car blends high performance, advanced technology and racing heritage Published May 21, 2025 6:00am EDT close Chevy debuts high-powered EV prototype pace car at Daytona 500 It was the first time an electric vehicle led the field at NASCAR's most famous race. Chevrolet made history at the 67th Daytona 500 by introducing the 2025 Blazer EV SS as the official pace car. This marked the first time an electric vehicle led the field at NASCAR's most iconic race, a striking symbol of how the automotive world is shifting toward electrification while still honoring its racing heritage. The Blazer EV SS isn't just any electric SUV; it's the quickest SS model Chevrolet has ever built, and it turned heads both on and off the track.JOIN THE FREE "CYBERGUY REPORT": GET MY EXPERT TECH TIPS, CRITICAL SECURITY ALERTS AND EXCLUSIVE DEALS, PLUS INSTANT ACCESS TO MY FREE "ULTIMATE SCAM SURVIVAL GUIDE" WHEN YOU SIGN UP! A 2025 Blazer EV SS was the official pace car of the Daytona 500. (Chevrolet)Power and performanceThe 2025 Blazer EV SS is all about performance. Thanks to its Wide Open Watts mode, the SUV sprints from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds, delivering a staggering 615 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque through its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system. This level of power puts it in the same conversation as some of the fastest electric crossovers on the market, rivaling models like the Ford Mustang Mach-E GT and Tesla Model Y Performance.WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?Beyond straight-line speed, the Blazer EV SS features front Brembo brakes, a sport-tuned chassis and a robust 102 kWh battery pack. Despite being built for performance, it still offers an EPA-estimated 303 miles of range, so it’s just as great for your everyday drive as it is for those fun weekend adventures. A 2025 Blazer EV SS was the official pace car of the Daytona 500. (Chevrolet)High-tech features and everyday usabilityChevrolet has packed the Blazer EV SS with advanced technology to enhance both comfort and safety. Inside, drivers are greeted by a massive 17.7-inch color touchscreen with Google built in, an 11-inch driver display, a premium Bose audio system and ambient lighting. The SUV also comes standard with Super Cruise, GM's hands-free driver assistance technology, adding an extra layer of convenience for long highway drives.On the outside, the SS trim stands out with 22-inch machined-face aluminum wheels, a blacked-out roof and sporty illuminated accents that signal its performance pedigree.GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE A 2025 Blazer EV SS was the official pace car of the Daytona 500. (Chevrolet)A historic Daytona 500 and a glimpse of the futureThe 2025 Daytona 500 was more than just a race; it was a showcase of Chevrolet's commitment to innovation. Alongside the Blazer EV SS pace car, Chevy unveiled the Blazer EV.R NASCAR Prototype. This all-electric prototype, built in collaboration with NASCAR and other OEM partners, is designed to explore new automotive technologies and push the boundaries of what is possible on the racetrack.Chevrolet also paced the entire NASCAR season-opener weekend, with the Corvette Stingray leading the Xfinity Series and the Silverado RST pacing the Truck Series. Fans had the opportunity to get up close to all these vehicles at Chevrolet's displays throughout Daytona International Speedway. A 2025 Blazer EV SS was the official pace car of the Daytona 500. (Chevrolet)Chevrolet's racing legacy continuesChevrolet's presence at Daytona is nothing new. The brand has now paced the Daytona 500 17 times and has more wins at the Speedway than any other manufacturer. In 2024, Chevrolet swept all three NASCAR Manufacturers' Championships, underscoring its ongoing dominance in motorsports. Chevy emblem (Chevrolet)Kurt's key takeawaysThe debut of the 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS at the Daytona 500 is a milestone moment for both Chevrolet and NASCAR. It signals a future where electrification and high performance go hand in hand, blending tradition with innovation. As the Blazer EV SS led the pack this year, it's clear that the race toward an electric future is not just underway, it's picking up speed.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPIf NASCAR eventually switches to fully electric vehicles and the classic "roar of the engines" is replaced by EV silence, would you still be excited to watch the races, or does the sound and tradition matter too much for you to tune in? Let us know by writing us atCyberguy.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.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt: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.

Published May 20, 2025 3:23pm EDT close 'CyberGuy': Wireless, waterproof bionic arm with 360-degree wrist rotation, lightning-fast control Kurt Knutsson discusses how the Hero PRO, a wireless, waterproof bionic arm with fast control and full 360-degree wrist rotation, transforms prosthetics. Most of us do not think twice about picking up a cup of coffee, sending a quick text or carrying groceries in from the car. For people who use prosthetic hands, though, these everyday tasks can be a real challenge. That is why the arrival of the Hero PRO by Open Bionics is such big news.This new bionic hand is waterproof, wireless and faster and stronger than anything that came before it. It is designed to help people who rely on prosthetics move through life with more ease and confidence.Even if you do not need a device like this yourself, the technology behind Hero PRO is changing what is possible for thousands of people, and it is worth knowing how far things have come. Let’s dive into what makes the Hero PRO so remarkable and why it captures so much attention. Hero PRO (Open Bionics) (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Built for everyday lifeHero PRO is crafted from robust Nylon PA12 using advanced 3D printing, making it both tough and incredibly lightweight. In fact, it is the lightest bionic hand system available today. The design is sleek and customizable with more than 50 cover options in different colors and patterns, allowing users to swap looks to match their style and personality. Hero PRO (Open Bionics) (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Waterproof and wireless freedomThe Hero PRO is the only bionic hand that is both fully wireless and waterproof. Rated IPX7, which means it can be submerged in water up to about 3 feet deep for 30 minutes without damage, it can handle splashes and even submersion, so users do not have to worry about getting it wet during daily activities. Wireless MyoPods, placed on the skin, pick up muscle signals to control the hand, eliminating the need for invasive implants or bulky wires. A woman using Hero PRO under running water (Open Bionics) (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Speed, strength and precisionThis bionic hand is twice as fast as leading competitors, with fingers that open and close rapidly to keep up with busy lives. It can carry up to 57 pounds, doubling the load capacity of previous models, making tasks like carrying groceries or lifting heavy objects much easier. The patented thumb design uses a single motor for powerful and precise grips, while the index finger features a touchscreen-compatible tip for seamless device use on the go. A woman carrying a basket using Hero PRO (Open Bionics) (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Unmatched flexibility and grip modesHero PRO offers more wrist flexion and rotation than any other bionic hand, with up to 45 degrees of manual flexion in both directions and a full 360-degree rotation. Users can quickly switch between work and sports modes, thanks to a USMC-standard wrist connector and more than 50 compatible activity attachments. With seven grip modes, including a precision key grip, users can handle everything from typing and cooking to pushing a stroller or tying shoelaces. These grips can be customized and updated wirelessly through the Sidekick App. A woman picking up produce using Hero PRO (Open Bionics) (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Battery life and chargingA single four-hour charge powers the Hero PRO for a full day. The battery is cleverly miniaturized and integrated directly into the hand, helping to keep the weight down. USB-C charging makes powering up quick and easy, whether at home or on the go. Hero PRO being charged (Open Bionics) (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)How user feedback and a young influencer helped shape the bionic hand technologyThe development of Hero PRO was shaped by feedback from around 1,000 users, including influencer Tilly Lockey, who lost both hands to meningitis as a child. Tilly played a key role in testing and refining the technology, and her experience highlights just how transformative the Hero PRO can be. She describes being able to multitask effortlessly, like pulling a suitcase and drinking hot chocolate at the same time, and even detaching the hand to control it remotely using muscle signals. Influencer Tilly Lockey wearing Hero Pro (Open Bionics) (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)How much does the Hero Pro cost?Pricing for advanced bionic hands like the Hero PRO is not always straightforward. Open Bionics, the company behind this technology, does not list a fixed price on its website. Instead, they encourage interested users to contact them directly for a personalized quote, since each device is custom-made to fit the individual's needs.For context, most high-end bionic arms on the market can cost anywhere from $20,000 to $80,000, depending on the features and customization required. Open Bionics aims to make their devices more affordable than traditional options, with some of their earlier models reportedly costing about five times less than conventional robotic prosthetics. However, the exact price for the latest models, including the Hero PRO, will depend on factors like insurance coverage, customization and specific user requirements.If you are interested in learning more about pricing or the process, it is best to reach out directly to Open Bionics for a detailed quote tailored to your needs.Kurt's key takeawaysTechnology like the Hero PRO is not just about gadgets and gears. It is about helping people do more of the things they love with less hassle. For those who rely on prosthetic hands, every improvement can mean a world of difference, whether that is carrying a heavy bag, using a smartphone or simply feeling more confident in daily life. Even if you do not need a prosthetic yourself, it is inspiring to see how far this technology has come and how it continues to open new possibilities for so many people.What everyday challenges do you think advanced bionic technology could help overcome, and what would you most want to see in the next generation of prosthetic devices? Let us know by writing us atCyberguy.com/Contact.For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt: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.

Published May 20, 2025 4:07pm EDT close 'CyberGuy' offers tips for protecting your genetic data Tech expert Kurt Knutsson discusses how users can keep their genetic data safe amid DNA testing company 23andMe's bankruptcy sale. The state of cybersecurity in the healthcare industry worries me a lot. Healthcare organizations, whether nonprofit or for-profit, collect an enormous amount of data. And it's not just phone numbers, addresses or emails but also sensitive information like medical records, insurance details and more. This data is extremely valuable, which makes it a prime target for hackers.What's worse is that many healthcare institutions often neglect cybersecurity and treat it as an afterthought. In 2024 alone, an industry tracker recorded 1,160 healthcare breaches that exposed 305 million patient records. This marked a 26% increase compared to the previous year.Against this backdrop, Ascension, a Missouri-based Catholic health system with 142 hospitals and 142,000 employees, recently disclosed that a December 2024 breach exposed the personal and medical information of more than 430,000 patients. A hacker at work (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)What you need to knowAccording to Ascension's breach notification letters, the compromise began on Dec. 5, 2024, when the network learned patient data "may have been involved in a potential security incident." By Jan. 21, 2025, its investigators had determined that Ascension had "inadvertently disclosed information to a former business partner," and that attackers likely stole data from that partner via a flaw in its software. In other words, patient records passed from Ascension into a third party's system and were then siphoned off by cybercriminals.The attackers gained a broad array of information. Impacted patients' demographic and financial details, names, mailing addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, dates of birth, race, gender and Social Security numbers were exposed. Even more worryingly, the breach included clinical data from hospital stays, including physician names, admission and discharge dates, diagnosis and procedure codes, medical record numbers and insurance details. This is the very data that criminals can exploit for fraud or identity theft. A healthcare worker typing on a laptop (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Timeline and involvementAscension reported the breach to regulators via an HHS filing on April 28, 2025, which shows 437,329 patients affected. By comparison, the company had earlier disclosed the impact in state filings. For example, 114,692 Texas patients and 96 Massachusetts residents were individually notified of exposure. In response, Ascension is offering those affected two years of free identity monitoring services (credit monitoring, fraud consultation and identity theft restoration).For scale, Ascension is a major nonprofit health system, one of the largest in the U.S., operating 142 hospitals across North America. The company has not named the third-party partner, but its description fits a vendor whose secure file-transfer software was breached. The timing aligns with a series of recent Cl0p ransomware attacks. Cl0p has publicly claimed responsibility for exploiting a zero-day flaw in Cleo's secure file-transfer products, stealing data from dozens of organizations worldwide. While Ascension itself was not directly hit by ransomware, its data might have ended up in that same attack campaign.Ascension's patients and employees are no strangers to data breaches. In May 2024, a Black Basta ransomware attack compromised Ascension's own network. That incident, traced back to a single employee opening a malicious file, resulted in the exfiltration of data belonging to nearly 5.6 million people.The fallout was severe. Hospitals lost access to digital records, forcing clinicians to record vitals, medications and orders on paper. Elective procedures and some appointments were paused, and emergency services were redirected to unaffected facilities to avoid delays in care.We reached out to Ascension for a comment on our article but did not hear back before our deadline. A man typing on a laptop (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Ways to protect yourself after the Ascension data breachIf you think you were affected or just want to be cautious, here are some steps you can take right now to stay safe from the Ascension data breach.1) Watch out for phishing scams and use strong antivirus software: With access to your email, phone number or identification documents, Ascension attackers can craft convincing phishing emails pretending to be from healthcare providers or banks. These emails might include malicious links designed to install malware or steal login information. To defend yourself, use a strong antivirus program. Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.2) Scrub your data from the internet using a personal data removal service: The more exposed your personal information is online, the easier it is for scammers to use it against you. Following the Ascension breach, consider removing your information from public databases and people-search sites.While no service can guarantee the complete removal of your data from the internet, a data removal service is really a smart choice. They aren’t cheap and neither is your privacy. These services do all the work for you by actively monitoring and systematically erasing your personal information from hundreds of websites. It’s what gives me peace of mind and has proven to be the most effective way to erase your personal data from the internet. By limiting the information available, you reduce the risk of scammers cross-referencing data from breaches with information they might find on the dark web, making it harder for them to target you. Check out my top picks for data removal services here.3) Safeguard against identity theft and use identity theft protection: Hackers now have access to high-value information from the Ascension breach, including Social Security numbers and bank information. This makes you a prime target for identity theft. You might want to consider investing in identity theft protection, which can also assist you in freezing your bank and credit card accounts to prevent further unauthorized use by criminals. Signing up for identity theft protection gives you 24/7 monitoring, alerts for unusual activity and support if your identity is stolen. See my tips and best picks on how to protect yourself from identity theft.4) Set up fraud alerts: Requesting fraud alerts notifies creditors that they need extra verification before issuing credit in your name. You can request fraud alerts through any one of the three major credit bureaus; they’ll notify the others. This adds another layer of protection without completely freezing access to credit. 5) Monitor your credit reports: Regularly check your credit reports through AnnualCreditReport.com, where you can access free reports from each bureau once per year or more frequently if you’re concerned about fraud. Spotting unauthorized accounts early can prevent larger financial damage.6) Change passwords and use a password manager: Update passwords on any accounts tied to compromised data. Use unique passwords that are hard to guess and let a password manager do the heavy lifting by generating secure ones for you. Reused passwords are an easy target after breaches. Consider password managers for convenience and security. Get more details about my best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 here.7) Be wary of social engineering attacks: Hackers may use stolen details like names or birthdates from breaches in phone scams or fake customer service calls designed to trick you into revealing more sensitive info. Never share personal details over unsolicited calls or emails. Social engineering attacks rely on trust, and vigilance is key.Kurt’s key takeawayAttackers have frequently targeted Ascension, but the company does not seem to be learning its lesson. If it were a one-off incident, it might be understandable. But how do you fail to strengthen cybersecurity after experiencing a nationwide blackout? Rather than being an isolated event, this breach feels like part of a larger pattern. The industry relies on complex vendor networks and outdated IT systems, while cybercriminals continue to exploit emerging vulnerabilities.Should hospitals be penalized for neglecting basic cybersecurity practices? Let us know by writing us atCyberguy.com/Contact.For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt: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.

close House passes bill targeting revenge porn and AI-generated deepfakes Texas high school student Elliston Berry joins ‘Fox & Friends’ to discuss the House’s passage of a new bill that criminalizes the sharing of non-consensual intimate images, including content created with artificial intelligence. Parents love capturing their kids’ big moments, from first steps to birthday candles. But a new study out of the U.K. shows many of those treasured images may be scanned, analyzed and turned into data by cloud storage services, and nearly half of parents don’t even realize it.A survey of 2,019 U.K. parents, conducted by Perspectus Global and commissioned by Swiss privacy tech company Proton, found that 48% of parents were unaware providers like Google Photos, Apple iCloud, Amazon Photos and Dropbox can access and analyze the photos they upload.TEENS ARE NOW USING AI CHATBOTS TO CREATE AND SPREAD NUDE IMAGES OF CLASSMATES, ALARMING EDUCATION EXPERTS First lady Melania Trump, joined by President Donald Trump, delivers remarks before President Trump signed the Take it Down Act into law in the Rose Garden of the White House May 19, 2025, in Washington, D.C. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)These companies use artificial intelligence to sort images into albums, recognize faces and locations and suggest memories. While convenient, the same technology can also have more dangerous uses, like deepfake videos.Professor Carsten Maple, a cybersecurity expert at the University of Warwick, warns that, with as few as 20 photos, AI tools can create a convincing digital clone of a person, including deepfake videos. These tools don’t need a high-resolution scan or video footage, just a handful of everyday pictures in the cloud."Parents are unwittingly opening their children up to possible exploitation by criminals who want to use their data for their own purposes," Maple told the Edinburgh Evening News. He added that even mundane photos, like a child at school or in the backyard, can reveal names and locations. Fifty-three percent of parents surveyed had no idea this was possible.PROTECTING YOUR DAUGHTER FROM DEEPFAKES AND ONLINE ABUSE President Donald Trump invited first lady Melania Trump to sign the new anti-revenge porn act she helped usher through to the finish line during a signing ceremony at the White House's Rose Garden Monday afternoon. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)Over half of parents, 56%, have automatic photo uploads enabled, meaning their phones constantly send new images to the cloud without ever having to tap "upload."WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?Even without deepfakes, data collection is extensive. Only 43% of parents knew cloud services collect metadata like time, date and location, and just 36% surveyed were aware that these companies analyze the contents of photos too.Concern is catching up to convenience. Nearly three in four parents (72%) surveyed said photo privacy is important, and 69% acknowledged the risks of digital footprints left by storing family photos online.  First lady Melania Trump walks to a meeting to urge passage of the Take It Down Act by the U.S. Senate at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC, March 3, 2025.  (Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images)Though the study was conducted in the U.K., its findings apply globally. American families use the same technology platforms and face the same questions: Where are kids’ photos going? Who is looking at them? And what could they be turned into?In the age of AI, a family photo isn’t just a memory, it’s also data which can be scanned, stored, sold and, increasingly, manipulated into deepfakes.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP Perspectus Global did not immediately return Fox News Digital's request for comment.Jasmine is a writer at Fox News Digital and a military spouse based in New Orleans. Stories can be sent to jasmine.baehr@fox.com

Published May 20, 2025 10:00am EDT close Google's AI unleashes new powerful scam-busting features for Android The CyberGuy explains steps you can take to protect yourself from scams. Scammers are always coming up with new tricks. Just when you start feeling confident about spotting phishing emails, suspicious links and fake banking apps, they find a new angle. Lately, they have been getting more creative, turning to the built-in features of our phones to pull off their schemes. One of the latest targets is NFC, the technology behind tap-to-pay. It might seem harmless, but a new scam is using it in ways most people would never expect. An Android malware called SuperCard goes beyond just stealing your card details. It gives attackers the ability to use your card remotely for real transactions. And the worst part is that it all begins with something as simple as a text message. An Android phone (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)What makes SuperCard X different?SuperCard X stands out from other Android malware because of how it operates. As reported by researchers at Cleafy, instead of stealing usernames, passwords or verification codes, it uses a method called NFC relay. This allows attackers to copy card data from a victim's device in real time and use it elsewhere to make payments or withdraw cash. The process does not require physical access to the card or knowledge of the PIN.The malware is offered through a Malware-as-a-Service model, which means different cybercriminals can use it in their own regions. This makes the threat more scalable and harder to contain. Unlike most banking trojans, SuperCard X is not focused on one specific institution. It targets any cardholder regardless of which bank issued their card.Another key difference is how stealthy the malware is. It uses minimal permissions and does not include extra features that would make it easier to detect. This lean approach helps it avoid detection by antivirus software and allows it to operate quietly on infected devices. SuperCardX fully undetectable (FUD | Cleafy) (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)How the scam worksThe fraud begins with a message sent through SMS or WhatsApp. It pretends to be from a bank and warns the recipient about a suspicious transaction. The message includes a phone number and urges the person to call to resolve the issue. This is the first step in gaining the victim's trust.Once on the phone, the attacker poses as a bank representative and walks the victim through a fake security process. This may include asking them to confirm personal details or adjust settings in their mobile banking app, such as removing spending limits on their card.Next, the attacker asks the victim to install a mobile app that is described as a tool to verify the account or enhance security. In reality, this app contains the SuperCard X malware. After the installation, the attacker instructs the victim to tap their card against the phone. The malware then captures the NFC data from the card and sends it to a second phone controlled by the attacker.Using the copied data, the attacker can make contactless payments or make ATM withdrawals almost instantly. This method allows them to steal funds quickly and leaves little opportunity for banks or victims to intervene in time. A woman scrolling on her phone (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)8 ways you can stay safe from SuperCard X malware1) Be cautious of suspicious texts and calls. Use strong antivirus software: Fraudulent campaigns often begin with an SMS or call that seems to come from your bank. These messages usually claim there's suspicious activity on your account and urge you to click a link or dial a number to resolve the issue. However, this is a tactic used to gain access to your personal information. Always approach such messages with skepticism.The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.2) Avoid installing apps from untrusted sources: One of the key ways malware like SuperCard X spreads is through deceptive apps that victims are persuaded to install. These apps often look harmless, posing as tools for security or account verification. If you receive a link to download an app via SMS, email or messaging apps like WhatsApp, do not click on it. Instead, only download apps from trusted sources, such as the Google Play Store. Additionally, carefully review app permissions and avoid granting unnecessary access, particularly to sensitive data like NFC, location or personal contacts.3) Turn off NFC when not in use: NFC, or Near Field Communication, is a useful feature that allows contactless payments and data exchanges. However, it can be exploited by attackers to capture your card information without you even realizing it. To minimize your risk of falling victim to NFC-based malware like SuperCard X, turn off NFC when you're not actively using it. On most Android devices, you can do this by going to "Settings," then "Connected Devices" or "Connection Preferences," where you’ll find the NFC toggle. By disabling NFC, your phone won't transmit data wirelessly, which helps protect your payment card information from being stolen by nearby attackers.4) Keep a close eye on your bank accounts and cards: If your device has come into contact with the SuperCard or anything similar, it’s possible your banking details are already compromised. That’s why it’s important to regularly check your transaction history for anything odd, like a small payment you don’t remember making or a charge from a strange location could be a sign of misuse. If you spot anything suspicious, report it to your bank right away. It’s also worth checking your credit reports every now and then to catch signs of identity theft before they snowball into bigger issues.5) Use a personal data removal service: If scammers have targeted you once, there's a higher chance they’ll try again, especially if your personal details (like your phone number, address or email) are easily found online. Data removal services scan people-search sites and brokers, then request the removal of your info. This reduces your exposure and helps prevent future phishing or social engineering attacks.While no service can guarantee the complete removal of your data from the internet, a data removal service is really a smart choice. They aren’t cheap and neither is your privacy. These services do all the work for you by actively monitoring and systematically erasing your personal information from hundreds of websites. It’s what gives me peace of mind and has proven to be the most effective way to erase your personal data from the internet. By limiting the information available, you reduce the risk of scammers cross-referencing data from breaches with information they might find on the dark web, making it harder for them to target you. Check out my top picks for data removal services here.6) Contact your bank and freeze your cards: If you think you’ve tapped or handled a suspicious card, or if your phone acted strangely afterward, don’t brush it off. Call your bank and let them know what happened. They can freeze your card to stop any unauthorized payments and issue a new one for added safety. You should also ask them to monitor your account more closely for a while. On top of that, place a fraud alert with a credit bureau so no one can easily open a new line of credit in your name.7) Consider enrolling in identity theft protection services: If you've been targeted by a sophisticated scam like SuperCard X, there's a chance your personal information, not just your card data, may be at risk. Identity theft companies can monitor personal information, like your Social Security number, phone number and email address, and alert you if it is being sold on the dark web or being used to open an account. They can also assist you in freezing your bank and credit card accounts to prevent further unauthorized use by criminals. See my tips and best picks on how to protect yourself from identity theft.8) Report the scam to your national cybercrime authority: Whether or not you lost money, reporting the scam helps authorities track emerging threats and warn others. You can report such fraud to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center or the Federal Trade Commission. Your report could help catch the people behind the scam or at least shut down their infrastructure.Kurt’s key takeawayThe SuperCard X malware campaign represents a significant shift in how cybercriminals are targeting individuals and financial institutions. By exploiting NFC technology and combining it with social engineering tactics, attackers have found a way to bypass traditional fraud detection systems. What's especially concerning is how quickly these attacks unfold, making them harder to detect before the damage is done. As this threat evolves, it's important for both consumers and institutions to recognize the potential risks of these multilayered fraud strategies.Do you think Google is doing enough to protect you from malware? Let us know by writing us atCyberguy.com/Contact.For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt: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.

Tech Chinese wearable eVTOL jetpack makes historic first flight This personal flying machine could change how we move and live in the future Published May 20, 2025 6:00am EDT close 'CyberGuy': Chinese wearable eVTOL jetpack makes historic first flight Tech expert Kurt Knutsson reports on China’s Zhiyuan unveiling the world’s first tri-ducted wearable eVTOL with hands-free control. Have you ever imagined what personal flying could look like in the near future? China's Zhiyuan Research Institute, based in Hangzhou, is bringing that vision closer to reality. They just unveiled what they're calling the world's first tri-ducted wearable electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for individual use, and their recent demo flight is already sparking curiosity about the future of personal flight. Tri-ducted wearable eVTOL for individual use (Zhiyuan Research Institute) (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)What's so special about this flying machine?The coolest thing about this eVTOL is its tri-ducted propulsion system. That means it has three powerful propellers, one on the left, one on the right and one in the back, all working together to keep the aircraft stable and efficient. This setup isn't just for show. It actually helps the vehicle fly smoother, cut down on noise and hover more reliably. It's the first time a manned aircraft has used this kind of design, which is pretty groundbreaking.Safety is a huge focus for the Zhiyuan team. They built in a one-click separation system that lets the pilot quickly detach from the aircraft and deploy a low-altitude parachute if something goes wrong. That way, the pilot can land safely even in an emergency, which is a big comfort for anyone flying solo.Flying this thing isn't just for experts. Zhiyuan developed a ground control system that helps keep things simple. The eVTOL can hover steadily and fly on its own without the pilot having to constantly control it, and it can make quick, agile moves when needed. The controls are designed to be easy to use, so even people without much flying experience can handle them.On the power side, the team created a new propulsion system with a high thrust-to-weight ratio. They used advanced ducted motor designs to make the whole thing more efficient. Plus, the flight control system can handle turbulent weather, so the ride stays smooth even when the air gets rough. Tri-ducted wearable eVTOL for individual use (Zhiyuan Research Institute) (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)What could you use this for?This wearable eVTOL isn't just a cool gadget. Zhiyuan sees it as being useful in all kinds of real-world situations. It could help with emergency rescues, maintaining electrical infrastructure or cleaning skyscrapers. It also has the potential for sightseeing and leisure flights, and it could be used for border patrol or customs inspections. With its versatility and easy controls, this aircraft could be a game changer for both professionals and adventure seekers.However, there is currently no official information on the commercial availability or price of Zhiyuan's tri-ducted wearable eVTOL. The aircraft has completed its first public demonstration, but details about when it will be available for purchase and at what cost remain undisclosed. Tri-ducted wearable eVTOL for individual use (Zhiyuan Research Institute) (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)China's growing low-altitude economyThis new eVTOL is part of a much bigger trend in China. The country is working hard to grow what it calls its "low-altitude economy," which includes drones, eVTOLs and other aircraft that fly below about 3,280 feet. The government has made low-altitude aviation a priority and is promising support for commercial spaceflight and next-generation air mobility technologies. Experts estimate that this industry could be worth more than $137 billion by 2030 as these aircraft find more uses in areas like logistics, tourism and public services. Tri-ducted wearable eVTOL for individual use (Zhiyuan Research Institute) (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Kurt's key takeawaysIt’s pretty crazy to watch personal flying tech take off like this. Zhiyuan’s tri-ducted wearable eVTOL is already up in the air, giving us a peek at what getting around might look like down the road. As these things become easier to use and more common, flying could end up being just another way we get from place to place, whether for work, emergencies or just for fun.Would you be excited or nervous to try out this kind of personal aircraft? Let us know by writing us atCyberguy.com/Contact.For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt: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.

By Mitch Picasso Fox News Published May 17, 2025 8:18am EDT | Updated May 17, 2025 4:32pm EDT close Mastercard, Paypal, Visa announce pay-by-chatbot feature Soon you’ll be able to pay for things like clothes and food through a chatbot, bypassing apps and websites. Epic Games released an AI-powered Darth Vader character that players can speak to via microphone.Fortnite and Disney teamed up to unveil an AI character that responds to a player's voice in real time. According to Fortnite, AI Vader can react to players by answering questions and providing strategies.The tech uses Google's Gemini 2.0 Flash model to generate Vader's responses, according to Epic Games.The voice of James Earl Jones, the late actor who voiced Vader, was generated using ElevenLabs' Flash v2.5 model. Fortnite and Disney have brought an AI-powered Darth Vader into the game that can interact with players on May 16, 2025. (Photo by OLIVIER CHASSIGNOLE/AFP via Getty Images)The family of Jones said in a statement to Epic, "James Earl felt that the voice of Darth Vader was inseparable from the story of Star Wars, and he always wanted fans of all ages to continue to experience it. We hope that this collaboration with Fortnite will allow both longtime fans of Darth Vader and newer generations to share in the enjoyment of this iconic character."The game's site states that audio and transcriptions from players are not stored and are solely used to prompt Darth Vader's responses. Epic also says it does not use the players' interactions to train AI models.SCARLETT JOHANSSON TAKES AIM AT COMPANIES USING HER LIKENESS, VOICE IN AI Fortnite players are finding ways to trick the new AI character into cussing. (Photo Illustration by Thomas Fuller/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)Players quickly found ways to get Vader to respond with profanity by having him repeat offensive language used by them.Australian streamer and gamer Kathleen Belsten, who goes by the handle "Loserfruit," shared a video online of her managing to prompt the AI Darth Vader to say "f---" during in-game dialogue.META TARGET OF PARENTS GROUP CRUSADE AFTER SCATHING CHILD SEXUAL EXPLOITATION REPORT Epic Games uses Gemini and ElevenLabs tech to introduce an AI-powered Darth Vader. (Photo illustration by Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto via Getty Images)Another X user with the handle @GasSpares was able to get the AI character to repeat a slur.Fortnite offers a feature that allows players to report such events, according to the site's FAQ. The company said it immediately issued a "hot fix" that will prevent players from making the character use profanity or slurs.The site also states that "Players under 13 or their country’s age of digital consent, whichever is higher, will need permission to talk with Darth Vader. These players will see an in-game prompt to get parental permission." Mitch Picasso is a Fox News digital production assistant. You can reach him at @mitch_picasso on Twitter.

Published May 18, 2025 10:00am EDT close Google's AI unleashes new powerful scam-busting features for Android The CyberGuy explains steps you can take to protect yourself from scams. Once considered an old-fashioned crime, check washing has roared back to life with alarming sophistication. Criminals are not just targeting personal checks anymore. They  are exploiting every vulnerability in the mailing and banking system to cash in on stolen funds. As check fraud incidents continue to rise sharply across the country, it is more important than ever to understand how check washing works and what you can do to protect yourself. Here is what you need to know to stay ahead of the scammers.JOIN THE FREE CYBERGUY REPORT: GET MY EXPERT TECH TIPS, CRITICAL SECURITY ALERTS, AND EXCLUSIVE DEALS — PLUS INSTANT ACCESS TO MY FREE ULTIMATE SCAM SURVIVAL GUIDE WHEN YOU SIGN UP! A pen placed on top of a blank check  (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)What is check washing fraud?Check washing fraud happens when a scammer steals a check you have written, erases the ink using chemicals like acetone or nail polish remover, and rewrites it to a new recipient. Often, they will change the amount to something much higher. The altered check is then deposited or cashed, and the funds are drained from your account before you even realize something is wrong.Why it's dangerous:Check washing does not require much technical skill.It can happen with checks you leave in your outgoing mail.Even mailed bill payments are vulnerable if not handled securely.FBI WARNS OF SCAM TARGETING VICTIMS WITH FAKE HOSPITALS AND POLICEUnlike digital fraud, check washing often goes unnoticed until long after the damage is done. Because checks can take days or even weeks to clear through the banking system, criminals have plenty of time to deposit altered checks and move funds before victims realize anything is wrong. By the time the missing money is discovered, tracing it back to the scammer can be extremely difficult. This delay makes it critical to monitor your accounts closely and act quickly if you spot any suspicious activity. Illustration of check fraud in progress  (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)How check washing has gotten worseSince 2023, check fraud has exploded in the United States.Financial institutions filed 665,000 suspicious activity reports (SARs) related to check fraud in 2023, which is a 134% increase compared to 2020.A 2024 Federal Reserve survey showed that check fraud now accounts for 30% of all fraud losses, second only to debit card fraud.Between February 2023 and August 2023 alone, Americans lost over $688 million to mail theft-related check fraud.The surge in fraud reports reflects more than just isolated criminal acts. Organized crime rings are increasingly turning to check washing as a hybrid crime, blending old-school mail theft with new digital tools like AI. Fraudsters now use advanced technologies to forge identities, alter check images and exploit gaps in banking security, making check washing more sophisticated than ever. As financial institutions strengthen cybersecurity defenses, scammers are targeting physical mail systems as a weaker link to bypass digital barriers.Real examples:Six people were charged with attempting to steal $80 million through fraudulent checks tied to COVID-19 relief funds.In Florida, a former mail carrier pleaded guilty to attempting to sell USPS arrow keys and stolen checks totaling nearly $550,000 to an undercover agent, leading to his arrest and confession.sNew tricks criminals are usingFraudsters have adapted their methods to stay ahead of law enforcement and banks.Mobile deposit fraud: Criminals alter check images or deposit the same check into multiple accounts.Synthetic identity fraud: Scammers create fake identities using AI-generated documents to open accounts and cash stolen checks.Business Email Compromise (BEC): Attackers impersonate executives or vendors to convince companies to send checks to fraudulent accounts.Criminals are combining old techniques like mail theft with new digital strategies, making check washing harder to recognize and prevent without proactive security measures. Recent advancements in AI technology have made it easier for scammers to forge realistic-looking documents, generate convincing fake identities and create sophisticated phishing emails. AI-generated fake IDs and altered check images can pass basic verification checks that would have caught manual forgeries in the past. This shift means check fraud is no longer just a matter of stealing a physical check, but exploiting digital vulnerabilities at every stage of the banking process. A person going over a bank statement (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)How to protect yourself from check washing fraudHere are 14 essential protective measures to shield yourself from check washing scams.1. Use a black gel pen: When writing checks, always use a black gel pen. The ink is much harder to remove compared to regular ballpoint pen ink.2. Bring checks directly to the post office when mailing them: If using a mailbox, make sure to drop off your mail before the final scheduled pickup so it is not left sitting overnight.3. Sign up for USPS Informed Delivery: Stay ahead by signing up for USPS Informed Delivery. You will receive digital previews of incoming mail so you can monitor for any missing items early. Learn more about why it's important here.4. Monitor your bank accounts: Set up real-time alerts for check clearing and review your statements weekly to catch any suspicious activity. Also, ask your bank about any other fraud-prevention tools they offer to protect your accounts.5. Switch to digital payments when possible: Use your bank’s mobile app to deposit checks without mailing or physically delivering them, reducing the risk of theft or tampering.6. Use checks with built-in security features: Choose checks printed on paper with watermarks, chemical-sensitive coatings or other security features that make check washing much harder.7. Limit the information on checks: Avoid unnecessary personal details. Do not print your Social Security number, driver’s license number or phone number on your checks. The less information available, the less a fraudster can use.HOW CYBERSCAMS ARE DRAINING AMERICANS WALLETS BY THE BILLIONS8. Store checks securely: Keep blank checks in a safe place. Store your checkbook in a locked drawer or safe, not in your purse, car or an easily accessible location at home.9. Check your mailbox security: Install a locking mailbox. If possible, use a mailbox with a lock to prevent thieves from stealing outgoing or incoming mail.10. Be cautious with endorsements: When endorsing checks, write "For Deposit Only" along with your account number to prevent others from cashing the check.11. Enroll in identity theft protection with check fraud specialization: Choose services that specifically monitor for compromised check details on dark web marketplaces and alert you to suspicious check-cashing patterns. Identity theft protection services monitor your personal data across the dark web and public databases, alert you to suspicious activity and assist you in locking down your accounts if needed. See my tips and best picks on how to protect yourself from identity theft.12. Invest in personal data removal services: Minimize exposure of sensitive details (like addresses or banking affiliations) that fraudsters could exploit for check-washing scams. Removing your personal information from these sites can help reduce your risk of becoming a victim. While no service can guarantee the complete removal of your data from the internet, a data removal service is really a smart choice. They aren’t cheap and neither is your privacy.  These services do all the work for you by actively monitoring and systematically erasing your personal information from hundreds of websites. It’s what gives me peace of mind and has proven to be the most effective way to erase your personal data from the internet. By limiting the information available, you reduce the risk of scammers cross-referencing data from breaches with information they might find on the dark web, making it harder for them to target you. Check out my top picks for data removal services here. 13. Shred sensitive documents: Shred old checks and bank statements. Don’t just throw them away. Shred any documents with sensitive banking information.14. Report suspicious activity immediately: If you suspect check fraud or missing mail, report it to your bank and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service right away.15. Use Positive Pay if you are a business: Positive Pay is a fraud prevention service offered by most banks to business customers. It works by matching the checks you issue with the ones presented for payment. If something doesn’t add up, like a changed amount or payee, the bank flags it for your review before it’s processed. You usually need to sign up through your bank, and there might be a fee, but it’s a smart way to protect your business from check fraud, especially if you write a lot of checks.What to do if you are a victimIf you think you have been targeted by check fraud:Report it to your bank immediately and freeze your account if necessary.Contact the USPS Postal Inspection Service to report stolen mail.File a complaint with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or at IdentityTheft.gov.Time matters. The faster you act, the better your chances of recovering lost funds.Kurt’s key takeawaysCheck washing fraud is growing rapidly, and criminals are becoming more organized and sophisticated. Simple habits like using gel pens, securing your mail and monitoring your financial accounts closely can make a big difference. Services like USPS Informed Delivery, Positive Pay for businesses and personal data removal tools provide added layers of protection. Identity theft protection services can also offer critical support if you ever become a victim of check fraud.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPHave you or someone you know experienced check fraud? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/ContactFor more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/NewsletterAsk Kurt a question or let us know what stories you'd like us to coverFollow Kurt on his social channelsAnswers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt: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.

close Google's AI unleashes new powerful scam-busting features for Android The ‘CyberGuy’ explains steps you can take to protect yourself from scams. Got an old computer collecting dust in a closet or tucked under a desk? You're not alone. Many people hold on to aging desktops and laptops, either as backup machines or because they still run "just fine." But here's the catch: if that PC is no longer receiving Windows updates, it could be a security risk, even if it seems perfectly functional. Janet from East Wakefield, NH, recently wrote to us about this very dilemma:"We need to update our computer due to Windows 11 not running on our older computer. We have two older computers, one we are upgrading and the second one I would like to continue to use on occasion. Do I run the risk of incursions into my software since I will no longer get security upgrades? Any advice on what I should remove (ie, finance info.)? Also, any advice for the older tower? Runs perfectly with solid state SSD. We are loath to put it into the recycling bin."The good news is you don't have to toss it just yet. With a few smart steps, you can use it safely or transform it into something completely new and useful. Let's look at how you can breathe new life into your old computer.JOIN THE FREE CYBERGUY REPORT: GET MY EXPERT TECH TIPS, CRITICAL SECURITY ALERTS, AND EXCLUSIVE DEALS — PLUS INSTANT ACCESS TO MY FREE ULTIMATE SCAM SURVIVAL GUIDE WHEN YOU SIGN UP! A woman working on her older laptop. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Why using an unsupported PC can be riskyFirst of all, once Microsoft stops supporting your version of Windows, your PC no longer receives security patches, bug fixes, updated drivers, or browser support. Even if the system still runs smoothly, it becomes more vulnerable to cyber threats like malware, ransomware, phishing attacks and data theft. An outdated operating system is like an unlocked door. Hackers and malicious software often target these systems specifically because of their weaknesses. If you plan to keep using an older computer, especially with internet access, it's time to update your operating system.How to protect your old PC for occasional useIf you still plan to use your PC occasionally, you can minimize the risks with these simple but effective steps:1. Use it offline only: The easiest way to stay secure is to keep your old PC off the internet entirely. You can still use it for:Word processingOrganizing archives or photosCreative projectsOffline games or journalingWithout internet access, you remove most external threats.2. Remove all sensitive data: Even if you’re only using your computer for basic tasks, it’s important to scrub any personal or financial information from the system. That includes:Tax documentsBank statementsSaved passwordsFiles with Social Security numbersScanned IDs or legal documentsOne effective way to securely wipe all personal files at once is to use the built-in Windows reset option, found under Settings > System > Recovery. This will remove your files and restore the system to a clean state. For step-by-step instructions, check out Microsoft’s guide to resetting your PC.Once your old PC is wiped, it’s smart to strengthen the security of your active devices. Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) for your accounts and use a password manager to keep your credentials safe and organized. Get more details about my best expert-reviewed Password Managers of 2025 here.3. Disable browsers (or use a safer alternative): If you need occasional internet access, avoid using outdated browsers like old versions of Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge. Instead, try privacy-focused alternative browsers. Or better yet? Disable browsers altogether and connect to the web on a newer, supported device.4. Install strong antivirus software that supports legacy systems: Even an offline PC can be exposed via USB drives or transferred files. The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Before installing antivirus software, make sure your older computer meets the minimum system requirements. Check for supported operating system (OS) version, RAM, and processor architecture (32-bit or 64-bit). Most providers list these on their site. Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices5. Keep important files on external storage: Avoid saving sensitive files directly on the old PC. Instead:Use a USB stick, external SSD or cloud storagePlug in external drives only when neededKeep backup copies in case the system failsThis keeps your data portable, protected and off the aging hardware. That way, your files are safe even if the old computer fails, and you can access them from newer devices anytime.WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)? A man working on his PC. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)What about older Macs?While this guide focuses on Windows PCs, many of the same principles apply to older Macs, especially if your system is stuck on unsupported macOS versions like High Sierra or Mojave. The best way to stay safe is to limit internet use, remove sensitive data, use supported browsers and install reliable antivirus software.That said, older Macs have a few unique considerations:Limited upgrade paths: Apple restricts OS upgrades to certain hardware. You may be locked into an older system unless you install a custom macOS patcher or switch to Linux.Tighter integration with Apple services: Be sure to fully sign out of iCloud and disable Find My Mac before wiping or repurposing.Fewer repurposing options: While some Macs make great writing machines or media centers, they’re harder to customize or reconfigure than tower PCs because most Apple hardware isn’t designed for self-upgrades. Components like memory or storage are often sealed, soldered or require special tools to access.Ready for a second life? Here’s how to repurpose itIf the system still has a working tower, especially an SSD (Solid-State Drive), which provides fast storage and efficient performance, it could be perfect for a modern, low-cost makeover.Option 1: Install Linux for a secure, fresh operating systemLinux is a free, fast, and secure alternative to Windows that works especially well on older computers. It's still actively supported and great for basic tasks like browsing the web, checking emails, editing documents, streaming videos or even learning to code. You don't need to be a tech expert to install it, as most versions come with easy, step-by-step installers.Here are some beginner-friendly Linux versions (called "distributions" or "distros"):Linux Mint — Designed to feel familiar to Windows users, with a simple, traditional desktop and lots of built-in help.Ubuntu — One of the most popular Linux versions, known for its large support community and extensive online guides, making it easy to find help if you get stuck.Zorin OS — Offers a polished, modern look that resembles Windows or macOS, making it ideal for casual users or anyone switching from those systems. It even helps you run some Windows programs and provides a very user-friendly experience.For example, Zorin OS lets you choose a desktop layout that looks like Windows, so you don't have to relearn everything. Ubuntu is famous for its reliability and the huge number of tutorials available online, which is helpful if you're new to Linux.And yes, you really can install these yourself, even if you've never tried Linux before. This beginner’s guide to installing Linux Mint walks you through the entire process.Option 2: Turn it into a home server or backup station Your old PC can become the backbone of your home network. A few creative uses:Media center — Stream content to your TVPhoto/video archive — Store backups and organize family memoriesLocal file backup server — Save copies of important files from other devices at homePrint or file server — Share printers or storage across devicesThis keeps your old machine useful without needing daily interaction.Option 3: Selling your PCBefore you get rid of your old PC, consider whether selling or recycling is the best fit for you. Both options are eco-friendly and can be rewarding if done right. Here's how to handle your PC responsibly:Back up and wipe data: Save your important files to an external drive or cloud storage. Then, use secure data-erasing software to completely wipe your PC, ensuring your personal information is unrecoverable.Remove accounts and reset: Log out of all accounts, deactivate software licenses and perform a factory reset so the next owner starts fresh.Selling your PC: If your PC is in good condition, consider selling it through reputable platforms such as Amazon Trade-In, eBay, or local electronics stores. These options can put cash or gift cards in your pocket. Always be cautious of scams, use secure payment methods and avoid sharing unnecessary personal details.Option 4: Donate or responsibly upcycleIf you're done with it, let someone else benefit:Schools, nonprofits and senior centers often accept working devices.Buy Nothing or Freecycle groups can help you find a local taker.Some e-waste centers refurbish old PCs for families in need.Be sure to wipe the hard drive before donating. Consider using a data erasure tool or disk-wiping software to securely erase the entire hard drive. However, always back up any important files before wiping your drive. Always, confirm that you are targeting the correct storage device during the process to avoid accidental data loss. If you’re unable to securely erase sensitive materials from your hard drive, consider removing the drive before donation and recycling it separately.GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE Solid-State Drive. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Simple upgrades that can extend its life even furtherIf you’re keeping the machine and want to get the most out of it, a few basic hardware upgrades can go a long way, even on an older system. These are budget-friendly fixes that can significantly improve speed, stability and longevity.1. Add more RAM: If your system has 4GB or less, upgrading to 8 GB+ can significantly improve multitasking and responsiveness, especially with Linux. Look up your PC’s model number on the manufacturer’s website to find compatible memory. Many desktops (and some laptops) let you upgrade RAM by simply opening the case and inserting the new memory sticks into available slots.2. Upgrade to an SSD: If you're still using a traditional hard drive, switching to a solid-state drive can dramatically reduce boot times and make your PC feel brand new. For most older machines, look for SSDs labeled "2.5-inch SATA", which are the most widely compatible and easy to install. Some newer systems support faster NVMe SSDs, which connect directly to the motherboard. Check your PC model or open the case to see which type your system supports. Be sure to back up your files, then either reinstall the operating system manually or clone your current drive before replacing it.3. Clean out the dust and refresh thermal paste: Older desktops tend to overheat, which can slow things down or cause random shutdowns. Open up the case and:Use compressed air to clean fans and ventsConsider replacing the thermal paste on the CPU if it's been several years4. Swap out the battery or power supply: If your laptop battery no longer holds a charge, or if your desktop randomly shuts off, consider replacing the battery or power supply unit.Kurt’s key takeawaysJust because a computer is old doesn’t mean it’s useless. Whether you’re turning it into a writing station, a media server, or giving Linux a try, your old PC can still be a valuable tool. The key is security. Unsupported systems can be risky if used online, but with a few precautions or by repurposing them entirely, you can keep your data safe and extend the machine’s life in meaningful ways.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPHave you repurposed an old PC? We’d love to hear what you're doing with your older tech. Let us know by writing us atCyberguy.com/ContactFor more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/NewsletterAsk Kurt a question or let us know what stories you'd like us to cover.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt: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.

Published May 18, 2025 6:00am EDT close New space capsule just changed the game for bringing stuff back from orbit A European startup successfully completed the first orbital test flight of its Phoenix 1 re-entry space capsule. While the United States has long been a leader in space exploration and commercial launches, Europe is now making significant strides of its own. Recently, a major milestone was achieved when Atmos Space Cargo, a European startup, successfully completed the first orbital test flight of its Phoenix 1 re-entry space capsule. This mission, which launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida, as part of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rideshare, marks a new chapter in global space logistics. By demonstrating that Europe can develop and operate advanced return technology, Atmos is helping to make space more accessible and efficient for researchers, businesses and innovators on both sides of the Atlantic. This achievement signals the arrival of a new player in the space return market and opens the door to greater collaboration and competition in the rapidly growing field of commercial space logistics.JOIN THE FREE CYBERGUY REPORT: GET MY EXPERT TECH TIPS, CRITICAL SECURITY ALERTS AND EXCLUSIVE DEALS — PLUS INSTANT ACCESS TO MY FREE ULTIMATE SCAM SURVIVAL GUIDE WHEN YOU SIGN UP! Phoenix 1   (Atmos Space Cargo)The mission: From launch to splashdownPhoenix 1 launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida, as part of the Bandwagon-3 rideshare mission. After reaching a 45-degree inclination orbit, the capsule completed one full trip around Earth. A carefully timed de-orbit maneuver then sent Phoenix 1 back toward the planet. During its descent, the capsule deployed an innovative inflatable heat shield, a technology designed by Atmos to protect the capsule during the intense heat and friction of reentry. FIRST PRIVATE SPACEX POLAR MISSION SPLASHES DOWN NEAR CALIFORNIAAs Phoenix 1 reentered Earth's atmosphere, it transmitted critical system and payload data to ground stations in South America. The capsule splashed down in the Atlantic Ocean, about 1,240 miles off the Brazilian coast. Because of the remote landing location, recovery of the capsule was not planned. However, the mission's main objectives were met, and the data collected is now being analyzed to inform future missions. Phoenix 1  (Atmos Space Cargo)Why Phoenix 1 is a big milestoneThe success of Phoenix 1 establishes Atmos as the fastest-moving private space logistics company in Europe to conduct an orbital return mission. This achievement demonstrates that Europe is on the path to developing independent, sovereign return capabilities. It also shows that private industry can lead the way in building essential space infrastructure. Atmos' rapid prototyping approach allowed the team to develop, qualify and fly Phoenix 1 in less than a year. This speed is almost unheard of in the space industry and highlights the company's commitment to innovation and hands-on problem-solving. The mission also proved that multinational collaboration is possible, as teams from around Europe worked together to achieve a common goal. Phoenix 1   (Atmos Space Cargo)What was learned and testedThe Phoenix 1 mission had several core objectives. The team aimed to collect in-flight data from the capsule and its subsystems while in orbit. The mission also carried scientific and commercial payloads, including technology demonstrators and biological experiments from partners such as Frontier Space, Imperial College London, DLR and IDDK. Another key goal was to deploy and test the inflatable heat shield under real reentry conditions. Although some data from the final stage of descent could not be retrieved due to the splashdown location, the mission still provided valuable insights. The data received from the capsule has already contributed to the development of Phoenix 2, the next-generation capsule planned for launch in 2026.SPACEX LAUNCH SCRUBBED HOURS AFTER HEGSETH SHARES MESSAGE TO RESCUE MISSION CREW: ‘WISH YOU GODSPEED’ Phoenix 1 (Atmos Space Cargo)The technology: Inflatable heat shield and rapid prototypingThe inflatable heat shield is a breakthrough in reentry technology. Traditional capsules rely on heavy, single-use heat shields or parachutes to survive reentry. Atmos' design is lighter, more efficient and potentially reusable, which could dramatically reduce the cost and complexity of returning cargo from space. Atmos' development philosophy is based on rapid prototyping and real-world testing. The team believes in building and testing hardware quickly, learning from each iteration and making improvements based on real data rather than relying solely on simulations. This approach allowed Phoenix 1 to go from concept to space in record time. Phoenix 1   (Atmos Space Cargo)The road aheadAtmos is already working on Phoenix 2, which will include its own propulsion system. This upgrade will allow the capsule to control its reentry trajectory and choose its splashdown zone, making recovery much easier and more practical. The company's vision is to create a flexible, cost-efficient and reliable logistics platform for space, supporting both commercial and institutional missions. With a payload efficiency of 1:2, Phoenix already offers the highest mass efficiency on the market. This opens new opportunities for microgravity research, in-space manufacturing and biotechnology. The technology will also support Europe's defense sector and strengthen the continent's independent space infrastructure. Phoenix 1  (Atmos Space Cargo)What this means for youThe success of Phoenix 1 is not just a technical achievement for engineers and scientists. It has the potential to assist with many aspects of everyday life. Faster and more affordable access to space means that new technologies, medicines and materials can be developed and tested in microgravity and then brought back to Earth for use.Universities, startups and small companies will have more opportunities to conduct experiments in space without the high costs and long wait times that have been barriers in the past. Atmos Space Cargo's growing space capabilities could also lead to new jobs, investment and technological leadership. Phoenix 1   (Atmos Space Cargo)Kurt's key takeawaysPhoenix 1's successful mission is a sign that space is becoming more accessible and that innovation is happening at an unprecedented pace. By proving that rapid development and new ideas can work in the challenging environment of space, Atmos Space Cargo is paving the way for a future where space logistics are as routine as shipping goods across continents. The next generation of breakthroughs in science and technology may very well start their journey with a ride on a capsule like Phoenix.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPDo you think the United States should accelerate its own space return technology to stay ahead, or is international competition good for innovation? Let us know by writing us atCyberguy.com/ContactFor more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/NewsletterAsk Kurt a question or let us know what stories you'd like us to coverFollow Kurt on his social channelsAnswers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt: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.

close Ex-teacher slams AI use in schools during viral video Hannah, a former teacher, joins ‘Fox & Friends’ to explain why she left the classroom, saying AI tools are making it difficult to teach. Welcome to Fox News’ Artificial Intelligence newsletter with the latest AI technology advancements.IN TODAY'S NEWSLETTER:- Teacher quits profession after viral rant on how AI is 'ruining' education- OPINION: How to thwart China and end European freeloading on Americans- Scarlett Johansson takes aim at companies using her likeness, voice in AI Hannah, a teacher who announced she was quitting teaching after this week, spoke to Fox & Friends about what drove her decision. (Fox News)CLASS DISMISSED: A former high school English teacher went viral this week after posting a candid video on social media announcing she was quitting the teaching profession because of how technology was "ruining" education.TODAY'S MOONSHOT: The U.S. artificial intelligence boom and collective need to beat China will not only take the best and brightest minds, but an even more powerful and reliable energy grid free of political posturing.STAR BATTLES BOTS: Scarlett Johansson has continued to share her opinion on artificial intelligence — and she has some suggestions on how the technology should be regulated in the future. Split image shows the logo of ChatGPT and Scarlett Johansson. (SEBASTIEN BOZON/AFP via Getty Images | DREW ANGERER/AFP via Getty Images)GROVER NORQUIST – OPINION: Europe is trying to push American companies out of the European market by assaulting the U.S. with discriminatory taxes and regulations. It’s time to put a stop to their freeloading.MEET THE CHALLENGE – OPINION: Last week's Senate hearing on U.S. competitiveness in artificial intelligence made it clear that we are not just in an AI race with China and the rest of the world. We are in a race to build the foundation of the 21st century global economy while strengthening our national security.LEO'S ADVICE: Pope Leo XIV wrapped up his first meeting with Vatican-accredited journalists Monday, calling for the responsible use of artificial intelligence. Pope Leo XIV leaves the Augustinian General House in Rome after a visit, Tuesday, May 13, 2025. (AP)HOTEL ROBOTS: Born from the creative minds at Paris-based startup Enchanted Tools, Mirokaï isn’t just another humanoid robot. It’s designed to be helpful, engaging and, honestly, a bit enchanting. With its blend of advanced artificial intelligence, storytelling and a dash of charm, Mirokaï turns ordinary moments into something a little more memorable. FACIAL FORECAST: A simple selfie could hold hidden clues to one’s biological age — and even how long they’ll live. AI facial recognition (Cyberguy.com)HELPING THE SICK: Philips North America chief region leader Jeff DiLullo discusses the future of artificial intelligence in helping the sick on "The Claman Countdown."AI REUNITES PETS: When Michael Bown left New York City for a family reunion at the Jersey Shore, he never imagined he'd return to a nightmare. His beloved adopted dog, Millie, just a year old, slipped out of her collar during a walk in the East Village and vanished into the night. What followed was a frantic, emotional and ultimately heartwarming journey, one that highlights the power of community, technology and a little bit of luck.FOLLOW FOX NEWS ON SOCIAL MEDIASIGN UP FOR OUR OTHER NEWSLETTERSDOWNLOAD OUR APPSWATCH FOX NEWS ONLINEFox News GoSTREAM FOX NATIONFox NationStay up to date on the latest AI technology advancements and learn about the challenges and opportunities AI presents now and for the future with Fox News here. This article was written by Fox News staff.

Published May 17, 2025 6:00am EDT close AI humanoid robot is changing the way you buy cars at dealerships AI humanoid robots are stepping into showrooms to greet customers, explain features and pour coffee. The world of car dealerships is changing rapidly as AI humanoid robots, once confined to factory floors, are now stepping into showrooms to greet customers, explain features and even pour coffee. At the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, Chinese automaker Chery showcased its latest advances, placing robots at the heart of the customer experience. A humanoid robot designed to work in car dealerships. (AiMOGA OMODA Robot)Intelligent sales consultantChery Automobile, a major Chinese carmaker, has introduced Mornine, a humanoid robot designed to work in car dealerships. Mornine is more than just a digital character. JOIN THE FREE CYBERGUY REPORT: GET MY EXPERT TECH TIPS, CRITICAL SECURITY ALERTS, AND EXCLUSIVE DEALS — PLUS INSTANT ACCESS TO MY FREE ULTIMATE SCAM SURVIVAL GUIDE WHEN YOU SIGN UP!She is a physical robot who can explain vehicle specifications, lead showroom tours, serve refreshments, and communicate in multiple languages. Chery's Mornine is already working as an "Intelligent Sales Consultant" at a dealership in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and the company plans to deliver 220 units to dealers worldwide this year. Mornine's design combines advanced robotics with a friendly digital persona, aiming to connect with younger, tech-savvy customers. A humanoid robot designed to work in car dealerships. (AiMOGA OMODA Robot)How Mornine worksMornine is powered by Chery's expertise in autonomous driving and artificial intelligence. The robot uses a multimodal sensing model to recognize gestures, voice commands, and environmental cues. Her hands are dexterous enough to serve drinks, and she can walk upright to guide customers around the showroom. Deepseek's large language models give Mornine the ability to understand natural language and provide personalized answers, which makes interactions feel more natural and engaging. A humanoid robot designed to work in car dealerships. (AiMOGA OMODA Robot)Beyond the showroomChery envisions Mornine moving beyond car sales. Thanks to her flexible design and advanced artificial intelligence, the robot could one day work in malls, cinemas, exhibitions, and even homes or eldercare facilities. The company sees Mornine as a step toward a future where artificial intelligence is always by your side, with robots acting as daily companions and assistants.WORLD’S FIRST AI-POWERED INDUSTRIAL SUPER-HUMANOID ROBOT A humanoid robot designed to work in car dealerships. (AiMOGA OMODA Robot)Why automakers are betting on robotsChery believes that humanoid robots will become as important as vehicles in the coming years. These robots offer a new way to engage customers, streamline operations, and showcase technological leadership. With features such as real-time language translation, fluid movement, and the ability to answer complex questions, robots like Mornine are poised to transform how we buy cars and interact with brands. A humanoid robot designed to work in car dealerships. (AiMOGA OMODA Robot)CHINA LAUNCHES CENTER TO TRAIN 100-PLUS HUMANOID ROBOTS SIMULTANEOUSLYKurt's key takeawaysHumanoid robots in car dealerships are no longer science fiction. With models such as Mornine and Iron, Chinese automakers are leading a new wave of customer service, blending advanced artificial intelligence and robotics with real-world applications. While some may find these robots a bit uncanny, their potential to revolutionize retail and daily life is clear. The future of car buying might just include a handshake or even a fist bump from a robot. If you are curious about how these robots compare to others like Tesla's Optimus, or want to know more about their technology, there is much more to explore as this trend continues to evolve.Would you feel comfortable buying your next car from a humanoid robot sales assistant instead of a human salesperson? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/ContactFor more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/NewsletterAsk Kurt a question or let us know what stories you'd like us to cover.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt: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.

close Your iPhone has a hidden folder eating up storage space without you even knowing The CyberGuy offers some little-known tricks to free up storage. Using a PC is all fun and games until you run out of storage. We’ve all been there, and the problem becomes more frequent if you’ve been using your PC for years. Over time, the hard disk starts filling up with everything, including PDFs, video files, random screenshots, and duplicate photos transferred from an SD card or your phone.Once your PC’s storage fills up, it slows down because the resources required to process tasks become limited. I will discuss some proven methods to reclaim valuable space and improve your computer’s performance.If you’re not a PC user, find more ways to free up space on these devices: iPhone | Android | MacJOIN THE FREE CYBERGUY REPORT: GET MY EXPERT TECH TIPS, CRITICAL SECURITY ALERTS, AND EXCLUSIVE DEALS — PLUS INSTANT ACCESS TO MY FREE ULTIMATE SCAM SURVIVAL GUIDE WHEN YOU SIGN UP! A Windows PC. Empty recycle binWhen you delete something on your PC, it remains in the Recycle Bin and still takes up space on your hard disk. The Recycle Bin usually holds deleted files for 30 days, but if you need to free up space right away, emptying it is a good first step. Note that "Recycle Bin" is the term used on Windows. To free up disk space from the Recycle Bin:Search for Recycle Bin on your desktop and right-click it.Select Empty Recycle Bin.Confirm the deletion.HOW TO FREE UP SPACE ON YOUR ANDROID Step to empty recycle bin on PC. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Delete unnecessary appsAfter clearing the Recycle Bin, the next step is to delete unnecessary apps. Unused applications take up valuable storage space and can slow down your system. Removing them will free up space and improve performance on your Windows PC.Go to SettingsClick AppsSelect Installed apps.Sort apps by size to find large ones.Click an app and select Uninstall. Image of Installed apps on a PC. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Delete the files you don’t needTake some time to go through your files and delete anything you no longer need. Old documents, large video files, duplicate photos, and outdated downloads can take up a surprising amount of space. If you are unsure about deleting certain files, move them to an external drive or cloud storage before permanently removing them from your Windows PC.Open SettingsClick System.Select Storage.YOUR IPHONE HAS A HIDDEN FOLDER EATING UP STORAGE SPACE WITHOUT YOU EVEN KNOWING Steps to delete the files you don’t need on a PC. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Click Temporary files. Steps to delete the files you don’t need on a PC. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Check the boxes for items like temporary files, downloads and recycle bin. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Click Remove files.You can also use Disk Cleanup: Type "Disk Cleanup" in the Start menu, select a drive and choose files to delete.Enable Storage Sense on WindowsIf you’re using Windows, Storage Sense is a built-in feature that can automatically free up space by removing temporary files and old items from the Recycle Bin. How to enable storage sense on Windows:Open Settings and go to System > Storage.Click on Storage Sense and toggle it On.Under the Configure cleanup schedules section, choose how often it should run (every day, week or month). Once enabled, Storage Sense will automatically clean up space based on your preferences.Transfer files to external storageChoose the right external drive: Opt for an external hard drive or solid-state drive (SSD) that suits your needs. SSDs offer faster speeds and better durability, while HDDs provide larger capacities at lower costs.Transfer files: Connect your external drive, copy your files to it and verify that all files are successfully transferred.Delete original files: After verifying the transfer, delete the original files from your PC to free up space. On Windows, use File Explorer to delete files and empty the Recycle Bin. On Mac, use Finder to move files to Trash and then empty it.Consider cloud storageCloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox and Microsoft OneDrive offer convenient, flexible options for storing large files without consuming your laptop’s limited space. These services allow you to securely store your photos, videos and documents in the cloud, freeing up valuable storage on your device. One significant advantage of cloud storage is accessing files from any device with an internet connection, whether on your phone, tablet or another computer.Most cloud services provide a certain amount of free storage (typically between 2GB and 15GB) before upgrading to a paid plan. For instance, Google Drive offers 15GB of free storage shared across Google services, while Dropbox provides 2GB for free with options to upgrade for more space. OneDrive provides 5GB for free, but Microsoft users can get additional storage through Office 365 subscriptions, granting access to the Microsoft Office suite.Additionally, cloud storage services come with features like automatic syncing and backup, making it easier to organize and safeguard your files. This can be particularly helpful for large photo and video libraries, which can be set to upload automatically from your phone or computer. With features like file versioning and collaboration tools, cloud platforms offer more than just storage  — they enhance productivity and allow seamless file sharing with friends, family or colleagues.Finally, many cloud storage providers offer encryption and other security measures to protect your files for added peace of mind. However, it would be best always to take extra precautions, such as enabling two-factor authentication and using strong, unique passwords, to ensure your data is safe. Kurt’s favorite cloud services can be seen here.Protect your data: Essential security steps after managing storageAfter you've freed up space on your PC-whether by deleting old files, moving data to an external drive or leveraging cloud storage, it's just as important to make sure your valuable information stays secure. The following steps will help you protect your files and personal data from cyber threats and accidental loss.1. Use strong passwords: Create unique, complex passwords for all your accounts and devices. Consider using a password manager to generate and store secure passwords. Get more details about my best expert-reviewed Password Managers of 2025 here.2. Enable encryption: Encrypt your external hard drives and cloud storage accounts to add an extra layer of protection to your data.3. Implement two-factor authentication (2FA): Enable 2FA on all accounts that offer this feature, especially for cloud storage services.4. Install and maintain strong antivirus software: Use a strong antivirus program and keep it updated to protect against malware and other security threats. The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.5. Regularly update your operating system and applications: Keep your devices and software up to date to ensure you have the latest security patches.6. Be cautious with public Wi-Fi: Avoid accessing sensitive information when connected to public networks, or use a VPN for added security. Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) service can enhance your privacy by encrypting your internet traffic, making it harder for hackers and third parties to intercept your data, especially on public Wi-Fi. A VPN masks your IP address, helping to obscure your location and online activity. While VPNs don’t directly prevent phishing emails, they reduce the exposure of your browsing habits to trackers that may use this data maliciously. With a VPN, you can securely access your email accounts from anywhere, even in areas with restrictive internet policies. 7. Backup your data regularly: Create multiple backups of your important files, including at least one offline copy.8. Use secure file transfer methods: When sharing files, use encrypted transfer methods or password-protected links.By following these steps, you can significantly enhance the security of your data and protect yourself from potential cyber threats.Kurt’s key takeawayYour PC’s storage can fill up fast, but you can always free up some space. I personally prefer storing images and videos that take up too much space on an external drive. This way, I can access them whenever I need to while keeping my PC storage free. If an external drive feels like too much of a hassle, you can always opt for cloud storage. Windows supports a range of cloud storage options, including its own services like OneDrive.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPWhat's the most surprising thing you've found taking up space on your computer?  Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/ContactFor more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/NewsletterAsk Kurt a question or let us know what stories you'd like us to cover.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt: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.

Published May 16, 2025 6:00am EDT close A skydiver lost his iPhone during a 14,000-foot fall, but, miraculously, it survived without a scratch A skydiver lost his iPhone during a 14,000-foot fall, but, miraculously, it survived without a scratch. Despite not wanting to be inundated by tons of emails, it’s quite another thing to have emails you need to read or keep disappear suddenly. It’s important to know why your emails are disappearing as much as it is important to figure out how to fix it. Mary Ann from Southport, North Carolina, had this question for us:"Help - my emails stored in individual email folders disappear on my iPhone 13 Pro Mail app. Why? Is there a fix so this won’t happen again?"Though we’ve all wished that our inboxes would magically get read and cleaned up, we certainly don’t want emails disappearing for no particular reason and without our knowledge. Usually, when something unexpected happens on our devices, it isn’t just a one-person issue. That’s why we thought it was important to investigate why your emails are disappearing and how to fix it, Mary Ann.If you're experiencing disappearing emails on an Android device, don't worry, we also cover solutions for Android users further down in this article. A woman using her iPhone. 1. Disappearing emails? Start here to solve the mysteryIf your emails disappear from your iPhone like they did for Mary Ann, there are several reasons this could happen. But before you troubleshoot the many different potential culprits, the easiest one to start with is to restart your iPhone. Even though it may seem too easy, sometimes restarting your iPhone can restore your missing emails. To restart your iPhone for iPhone X or later: DON'T FALL FOR THAT SNEAKY ICLOUD STORAGE ALERT IN YOUR INBOX Apple Support photo of restarting iPhone X or later. (Apple)While holding the iPhone with the screen facing toward you, press the volume up or down button on the left side of your phone and at the same time, press the power button on the right side.When the power-off slider shows up on your screen, slide it across the screen to the off position.Once your phone turns off (it’ll be just a blank black screen), leave it off for 10 seconds.Turn your phone back on by pressing and holding the side button (on the right side of your iPhone) until you see the Apple logo. Once you see the logo, release the button.Go check to see if that resolved your mail issues.If that doesn’t resolve the issue, try the steps below.2.  It could be a problem with your mail settingsWhile the iPhone usually keeps the mail setup process pretty simple, sometimes how we step up can cause problems down the road. Or even if we did set it up correctly, it just needs to be reset to get it working properly-the solution. Delete your email account on your iPhone, and then set it up again.On the main screen of your iPhone, tap Settings.Scroll down and tap Apps.Then tap Mail.THAT APPLE ID DISABLED MESSAGE? IT'S A DANGEROUS SCAM How to delete your email account on iPhone mail app. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Tap Mail Accounts.Select the account you are having problems with and wish to delete.Tap ‘Delete Account.’You will get a pop-up asking you to confirm that you want to delete this account. Tap ‘Delete from My iPhone.’ How to delete your email account on iPhone mail app. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)How to add your email account againOn the main screen of your iPhone, tap Settings.Scroll down and tap AppsThen tap Mail Accounts. How to add your email account on iPhone mail app. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Select ‘Add account.’Then select your email service and follow the prompts to add your email account back on your phone, which includes inputting your email address and email password. How to add your email account on the iPhone mail app   (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)3. There is a conflict between IMAP and POP3 protocolsDesktop mail applications usually use POP3, while most smartphones use IMAP protocol, which can cause conflict and mail disappearance. The solution to fix this problem. You’ll need to see if your email is set up on any other devices using POP3. If possible, change all email account setups to IMAP on other devices. For example, on Mail on an iMac:On your iMac or MacBook (Pro), open the ‘Mail’ application, usually found in the dock on the bottom or right or left side of your desktop screen.Under ‘Mail’ on the menu bar on the top left of your screen, select ‘Accounts.’Select the specific account you want to check. How to check your mail setting on your desktop. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Under your email login and password information, click the ‘Advanced’ button.A pop-up should open showing you the hostname, and it should say ‘pop.’ or ‘imap.’ before your domain host.'If you see ‘pop.,’ you should take steps to change the settings to imap.4. IOS updates requiredSometimes, emails can disappear with outdated iOS. The solution is to find out if your iOS is old and/or update your iOS by performing the following steps:On the main screen of your iPhone, tap Settings.You’ll either have a notification on the top of ‘Settings’ that says ‘Software Update Available,’ or you can scroll down and click General. How to add your email account on iPhone mail app. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Tap ‘Software Update’If there is an iOS update available, you will see it listed and the option to download and install it.If you’re ready to update, click ‘Update Now.’5. System errorIf none of these resolve your disappearing emails, it may be a system error that can occur on any device. You can also contact Apple Support for further support if nothing seems to work.  You can reset your device to start fresh to see if that will resolve the disappearing email problem. Check out How to factory reset my iPhone for step-by-step instructions on how to reset your device.What to do if your emails disappear on AndroidWhile this article focuses on iPhone fixes, Android users can face similar issues with disappearing emails. Here's a brief guide tailored for Android devices:Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer.1. Check all folders and search for missing emailsSometimes emails are accidentally archived, deleted, or marked as spam. Use the search function in your email app and check the Spam, Trash, and Archive folders to locate missing messages.For Gmail, also check the Social, Promotions and Updates tabs, as emails can be automatically sorted there.2. Review email sync settingsOpen your email app's settings, go to your account settings, and check the "Sync period." Set it to "All time" to ensure older emails are not hidden.Make sure the sync function is enabled so your device is regularly updating with the mail server.3. Check email protocol: POP3 vs. IMAPIf your account is set up as POP3, emails may be downloaded to one device and removed from the server, causing them to disappear from other devices. IMAP keeps emails synced across all devices.If using POP3, look for a setting like "Leave messages on server" and make sure it is enabled.Switching to IMAP is recommended for most users to avoid these issues.4. Inspect email filters and rulesFilters or rules may automatically move emails to specific folders or delete them. Review your filter settings in your email app or webmail interface.5. Restart and re-add your accountLog out of your email account, restart your device, and log back in. If issues persist, remove the email account from your device and add it again.6. Network and app issuesEnsure your device has a stable internet connection. Sometimes sync issues are caused by temporary network problems.If problems continue, try updating your email app or reinstalling it.By following these steps, most Android users can resolve the issue of disappearing emails and keep their inboxes under control.Kurt’s key takeawaysIt is very disconcerting when emails start disappearing with no rhyme or reason from your phone. Not only does it keep you from getting information and responding in a timely manner, but it can also start causing consistent problems in your professional and personal life. Thankfully, there are several ways to troubleshoot this problem, from the most basic (restarting your phone) option to the most intense (resetting your entire device).CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPHave your emails ever disappeared from your phone? How did you notice this? What steps have you taken to restore your email to its optimal functioning state? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/ContactFor more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/NewsletterAsk Kurt a question or let us know what stories you'd like us to cover.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt: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.

Join Fox News for access to this content You have reached your maximum number of articles. Log in or create an account FREE of charge to continue reading. By entering your email and pushing continue, you are agreeing to Fox News' Terms of Use and Privacy Policy, which includes our Notice of Financial Incentive. Please enter a valid email address. Hackers are pretty scary. Amoral, hooded figures with magical computer skills that can break into anything within minutes. At least that is what most of us think of when we hear the term "hacker." It is not exactly a realistic or particularly representative image, but, at the same time, it is not too far off the mark either. What many people do not realize is just how much hackers can learn about you from a data broker file, detailed profiles compiled from your personal information collected and sold by data brokers. This hidden industry fuels much of what hackers use to target individuals today. Illustration of a person’s personal data. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)What is a data broker, and why should you care?When most people hear the term "data broker," on the other hand, they draw a blank. Is it a person or company that buys and sells data? Basically, yes. Data brokers collect, sort, analyze, package and sell access to personal information. Whose personal information? Anyone's and everyone's, including yours.THINK YOU CAN DELETE YOUR DATA YOURSELF? HERE’S WHY YOU’RE PROBABLY WRONG Illustration of a person’s personal data. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)What kinds of personal information do they deal in?Here is a list of possible data points you, random companies, your worst enemy, your neighbors and, yes, hackers can find in a data broker file:Full namePast legal namesKnown aliasesSocial media handlesGenderSexual preferencesDate of birth or ageSocial Security number (SSN)Current and past home addressesCurrent and past phone numbersCurrent, past and secret email addressesPolitical preferences and affiliationsOccupationCurrent employerEmployment historyBusiness associatesEducationMarital statusMarriage and divorce recordsFamily status (number and ages of children)RelativesProperty informationVehicle registrationAssetsFinancial informationBankruptcies, judgments and liensLicenses (drivers license, firearms permits, etc.)Court recordsCriminal recordsMugshotsSex-offender statusHealth historyLocation dataIP informationDevice information (phone, tablet and computer models)Web browser informationShopping habitsInterests and hobbies.Quite the list, is it not? It is not exhaustive; there is more that data brokers collect and more yet that they and their customers can infer from data points like these. What exactly a given data broker has will depend on which category it falls into.HACKERS CLAIM MASSIVE BREACH OF COMPANY THAT TRACKS AND SELLS AMERICANS' LOCATION DATA Illustration of a person’s personal data. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Types of data brokers: Who's collecting and selling your information?The most visible data brokers are commonly known as people search sites or people finder sites. These are the sites that show up when you Google yourself, or a hacker Googles you. They are just the tip of the iceberg, though. There are other data brokers that do not bother indexing individual profiles with search engines, preferring instead to deal with other companies and even governments directly. These are the other major types of data brokers, in addition to people search sites:Marketing data brokers focus more on your browsing habits, past purchases and interests. They are responsible for "personalized marketing" as well as helping other companies target you with those surprisingly relevant ads you see online.Recruitment data brokers collect and process personal information to offer background screening services to organizations evaluating job candidates or performing background checks before making an offer. Unfortunately, although illegal, there is nothing actually stopping unscrupulous employers from using the much less regulated and reliable people search sites for the same purposes.Risk mitigation brokers aggregate a variety of background, criminal, property and other information to provide assessment reports to various investment and business companies. The information they collect is aimed at helping such companies manage risk in taking on new business.Financial information brokers collect various personal finance and background information for credit companies and banks to calculate your credit score and may influence your eligibility to get loans and lines of credit.Health information data brokers collect information about your general health and sell it to companies in healthcare and related fields. This information can be used to target you with health product ads and even set your insurance premiums.Hackers are most likely to use people search sites, though; they are easily accessible, eminently searchable, relatively cheap (with trial offers for as little as a dollar) and do not ask any questions. Other data brokers may also sell personal information to hackers, but they tend to sell profiles in bulk.Want your data taken off this market?It is perfectly normal to want no part in any of this. Unfortunately, there is no federal law on the books in the U.S. that would either prevent this kind of data trade or give you an easy, legally enforced way to opt out.The good news is that, thanks to an incomplete patchwork of state laws, personal information removal services can approach hundreds of individual data brokers on your behalf with legally binding data-removal requests.While no service can guarantee the complete removal of your data from the internet, a data removal service is really a smart choice. They aren’t cheap — and neither is your privacy. These services do all the work for you by actively monitoring and systematically erasing your personal information from hundreds of websites. It’s what gives me peace of mind and has proven to be the most effective way to erase your personal data from the internet. By limiting the information available, you reduce the risk of scammers cross-referencing data from breaches with information they might find on the dark web, making it harder for them to target you. Check out my top picks for data removal services here. Kurt's key takeawaysIt is easy to feel overwhelmed when you realize just how much of your personal information is out there, and how many different players are collecting, selling and using it. But knowing how data brokers operate is the first step to taking back control. Whether it is people search sites or the less visible brokers working behind the scenes, your data is valuable, and you deserve to know who has it and what they are doing with it. The good news is, there are tools and services out there that can help you clean up your digital footprint and protect your privacy. So, do not just sit back and hope for the best — take action and make your data work for you, not against you.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPIn your opinion, what should be done to give people more control over their data? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/ContactFor more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/NewsletterAsk Kurt a question or let us know what stories you'd like us to cover.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt:Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.  

Tech Jeff Bezos backs radical $20,000 small electric pickup truck Newly announced Slate Truck could revolutionize the EV industry by making it more affordable Published May 15, 2025 6:00am EDT close Jeff Bezos backs radical $20,000 small electric pickup truck The Slate Truck is priced at $20,000 after federal EV incentives. Jeff Bezos is backing a bold new venture that's positioning itself to disrupt the electric vehicle space: Slate Auto. It's a startup that has unveiled a simple, modular electric pickup truck called the Slate Truck. It's priced at $20,000 after federal EV incentives, a concept some would consider radical and even inconceivable.The Slate Truck's base model defies industry norms by stripping down to essentials, with no power windows, no touchscreen and a minimalist dashboard. However, at the same time, it offers a range of customization options, allowing buyers to transform it into a five-seat SUV. Image of the exterior of the Slate Truck. (Slate Auto)Slate Truck by the numbersThe Slate Truck is a compact electric pickup, measuring 174.6 inches in length, 70.6 inches wide excluding mirrors and 69.3 inches tall, making it more than 20 inches shorter than a Ford Maverick and reminiscent of classic pickups like the 1985 Toyota truck. It rides on a 108.9-inch wheelbase and features a five-foot bed that is slightly longer and wider than the Maverick's, offering 37 cubic feet of cargo space. The truck is powered by a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, delivering rear-wheel drive only and accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in about 8 seconds, with a top speed near 90 mph.AMERICA'S SMALLEST EV TRUCK PROTOTYPE HAS ARRIVEDBuyers can choose between a standard 52.7 kWh battery with an estimated 150-mile range or an optional 84.3 kWh pack for up to 240 miles of range. Charging is flexible, with an 11 kW onboard AC charger and DC fast charging up to 120 kW through a NACS connector, allowing a 20% to 80% charge in about half an hour. The Slate Truck has a maximum payload capacity of 1,433 pounds and can tow up to 1,000 pounds, making it practical for everyday hauling needs.Safety features include traction control, electronic stability control, automated emergency braking, forward collision warning with pedestrian detection and up to eight airbags, with the company targeting a five-star NCAP safety rating. The curb weight is about 3,600 pounds. Specific details of the Slate Truck. (Slate Auto)Funding and missionSlate Auto, founded in 2022, secured $111 million in funding from Bezos and other investors, including Mark Walter, the controlling owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers. The company aims to disrupt the EV market by making electric trucks accessible to budget-conscious consumers. This is a stark contrast to an industry dominated by high-priced models. The exterior of the Slate Truck. (Slate Auto)Slate Truck manufacturing strategySlate Auto's production is set to begin in Warsaw, Indiana, at a repurposed paper facility, an unconventional approach to manufacturing. The company is betting on affordability and modularity to carve out a niche in the EV market and is looking to challenge industry giants like Tesla and Ford. Maybe with Bezos' backing, Slate Auto can redefine what an affordable EV looks like. An illustration of the Slate Truck’s customization options. (Slate Auto)Customization optionsOne of Slate’s standout features is its extensive customization. Starting as a minimalist two-seater, the Slate Truck can be transformed into a five-seat SUV with an add-on kit that includes rear seats, a roll cage and airbags. Buyers can choose from over 100 accessories, including roof racks, cargo storage, all-terrain tires and lift kits. The vehicle’s exterior can be wrapped in different colors and designs instead of painted, allowing owners to easily change its look or even do it themselves with a DIY kit. This modular, build-it-your-way philosophy makes the Slate Truck feel like a rolling Lego set, appealing to both everyday drivers and enthusiasts who want a personalized EV experience.TESLA LAUNCHES LOW-PRICED MODEL Y MUSK CALLED UNACCEPTABLE AS FORD, VW ENTER SEGMENT The Slate Truck. (Slate Auto)When will the Slate Truck be available?Reservations for the Slate Truck are open for a refundable $50 deposit. Customers should expect deliveries to start in late 2026. You can go to the Slate Auto website to reserve yours by clicking on this link. The exterior of the Slate Truck. (Slate Auto)Kurt's key takeawaysSlate Auto’s approach to building a simple, modular electric pickup truck at an affordable price could shake up the EV market. Its focus on practicality and customization, backed by Jeff Bezos, offers a fresh alternative to pricey, tech-heavy trucks. With production starting in Indiana and deliveries expected in late 2026, the Slate Truck may well redefine what an affordable EV looks like.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPWould you consider buying a Slate Truck, with its minimalist design and customizable features? Why or why not? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/ContactFor more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/NewsletterAsk Kurt a question or let us know what stories you'd like us to cover.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt: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.

Published May 14, 2025 10:00am EDT close ‘CyberGuy’ explains dark side of PayPal, how to stay safe Kurt Knutsson has advice to protect information from cybercriminals who are seeking new ways to gain login credentials and full control of computers and bank accounts. Online scams are becoming more dangerous and convincing every day. Cybercriminals are finding new ways to gain not just your login credentials but full control of your computer and your bank accounts.Take John from King George, Virginia, for example. He recently shared his alarming experience with us. His story is a powerful warning about how quickly things can escalate if you respond to suspicious emails.Here is what happened to John in his own words: "I mistakenly responded to a false PayPal email notifying me of a laptop purchase. The message looked real, and I called the number listed. The person on the phone gave me a strange number to enter into my browser, which installed an app that took control of my PC. A warning popped up saying 'software updating – do not turn off PC,' and I could see my entire file system being scanned. The scammer accessed my bank account and transferred money between accounts. He told me to leave my PC running and go to the bank, keeping him on the phone without telling anyone what was happening. I shut everything down, contacted my bank, and changed my passwords."John’s quick thinking in shutting down his computer and alerting his bank helped minimize the damage. However, not everyone is as lucky. Fake PayPal scam email (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)How this scam worksThis type of scam is known as a remote access scam. It often begins with a fake email that appears to come from a trusted company like PayPal. The message claims there is an issue, such as an unauthorized charge, and urges the victim to call a phone number or click a link. WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?Once the scammer makes contact, they guide the victim to enter a code into their browser or install a program, claiming it will fix the problem. In reality, this grants the scammer full control of the victim’s computer. Once inside, scammers often search for sensitive files, access banking websites, steal login credentials or install malware to maintain long-term access. Even if the immediate scam is stopped, hidden malware can allow scammers to reenter the system later. A hacker at work (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Key takeaways from John's experienceJohn’s close call highlights several important lessons.Fake emails are harder to spot than ever: Scammers create emails that look almost identical to real ones from trusted companies like PayPal. They copy logos, formatting and even fake customer support numbers. Always double-check the sender’s email address and verify communications by visiting the official website or app directly instead of clicking links inside emails.Remote access scams can escalate fast: Once scammers gain control of your device, they can steal sensitive data, move funds between accounts and install hidden malware that stays behind even after the scammer disconnects. It often takes only minutes for serious damage to be done, making fast recognition critical.Psychological pressure plays a big role: Scammers rely on creating a sense of urgency and fear. By keeping you on the phone and urging secrecy, they isolate you from help and rush you into making bad decisions. Recognizing when you are being pressured is key to breaking the scammer’s control.Fast action can make all the difference: By quickly disconnecting his computer and contacting his bank, John limited the scammer’s access to his accounts. Acting within minutes rather than hours can stop further theft, block fraudulent transactions and protect your sensitive information from being fully compromised.GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE A warning on a laptop home screen (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)How to protect yourself from remote access scamsTaking simple but strong security steps can protect you from falling victim.1. Never call a number listed in a suspicious email: Scammers often set up fake phone numbers that sound professional but are designed to manipulate you into handing over control or information. Always find verified contact information through a company's official website or app, not links/numbers provided in suspicious messages.2. Be skeptical of unusual instructions: No legitimate company will ask you to install software or enter strange codes to protect your account. If anything seems unusual, trust your instincts and stop the communication immediately.3. Install strong antivirus software on all devices: Antivirus programs can detect suspicious downloads, block remote access attempts and help prevent hackers from taking over your system. Having strong antivirus protection installed across all your devices is the best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware and attempt to access your private information. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.4. Use identity theft protection: These services monitor financial accounts, credit reports and online activity for signs of fraud, alerting you to suspicious transactions. See my tips and best picks on how to protect yourself from identity theft.5. React immediately if you suspect a scam: Disconnect your device from the internet, contact your bank or credit card company immediately and change your passwords, especially for banking and email accounts. Monitor your accounts closely for unauthorized activity and report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission as well as the company that was impersonated. Acting quickly can prevent further access and limit the damage scammers can cause.6. Use multifactor authentication (MFA): MFA adds a critical layer of security beyond passwords, blocking unauthorized logins even if credentials are stolen. Enable MFA on all accounts, especially banking, email and payment platforms, to stop scammers from bypassing stolen passwords.7. Update devices and software immediately: Regular updates patch security flaws that scammers exploit to install malware or hijack systems. Turn on automatic updates wherever possible to ensure you’re always protected against newly discovered vulnerabilities.8. Employ a password manager with strong, unique passwords: Avoid password reuse and use complex passphrases to minimize credential-stuffing attacks. A password manager generates and stores uncrackable passwords, eliminating the risk of weak or repeated credentials. Get more details about my best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 here.9. Never share screen access or grant remote control: Scammers exploit screen-sharing tools to steal passwords and manipulate transactions in real time. Legitimate tech support will never demand unsolicited screen access; terminate the call immediately if pressured.10. Invest in personal data removal services: These services automate requests to delete your personal information from data brokers and people-search sites, reducing publicly available details scammers could exploit for phishing or impersonation. While no service promises to remove all your data from the internet, having a removal service is great if you want to constantly monitor and automate the process of removing your information from hundreds of sites continuously over a longer period of time. Check out my top picks for data removal services here.Kurt’s key takeawaysJohn’s story is a reminder that online scams are evolving quickly and becoming more aggressive. Staying skeptical, verifying all suspicious messages and acting quickly if something feels wrong can make the difference between staying safe and losing sensitive information. Protect your devices, trust your instincts and remember it is always better to be cautious than to take a risk with your security.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPHave you or someone you know been targeted by a scam like this? 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.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt: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.

Tech Robot with animated face is here to make customer service better AI robot company aims to make technology feel a little more human Published May 14, 2025 6:00am EDT close Friendly robot with animated face is here to make customer service way better Mirokaï is designed to be helpful, engaging and enchanting. Have you ever wished robots could do more than just follow instructions? Well, that’s where Mirokaï steps in. Born from the creative minds at Paris-based startup Enchanted Tools, Mirokaï isn’t just another humanoid robot. It’s designed to be helpful, engaging and, honestly, a bit enchanting. With its blend of advanced artificial intelligence, storytelling and a dash of charm, Mirokaï turns ordinary moments into something a little more memorable. So, let’s take a closer look at what makes Mirokaï so special, how it works and where you might bump into one soon. Mirokaï the humanoid robot (Enchanted Tools)What makes Mirokaï so special?Mirokaï is a people-friendly humanoid robot powered by advanced AI, designed to be approachable. Its appearance is inspired by anime, giving it a friendly and expressive face that invites interaction. But what really sets Mirokaï apart is the story behind it.According to Enchanted Tools, Mirokaï belongs to a species from space, created long ago to help humans better understand each other. These robots are wise, creative and kind, guiding people to connect and grow. This imaginative backstory, brought to life with the help of the French film studio Gaumont, adds a magical dimension that makes Mirokaï feel more like a companion than a machine.WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)? Mirokaï the humanoid robot (Enchanted Tools)Where will you see Mirokaï in action?Mirokaï is designed to fit naturally into many different environments. In hospitals and clinics, it can help elevate patient care by assisting staff with routine tasks like transporting medical devices, freeing up nurses to focus on patients. In retail stores, Mirokaï can guide customers directly to the products they’re looking for, making shopping quicker and more enjoyable.In nursing homes, it provides companionship to residents and supports caregivers during night rounds, helping to combat loneliness. You might also find Mirokaï at professional events, fairs, hotels, restaurants and airports, where it offers friendly guidance and reliable navigation to visitors. Mirokaï the humanoid robot (Enchanted Tools)The technology behind the robotWhat powers Mirokaï’s charm is a combination of sophisticated technology and thoughtful design. Instead of relying on a single AI model, Mirokaï uses multiple large language models to carry on natural, fluid conversations. It also integrates advanced vision language models that help it understand its surroundings in context, while respecting privacy through GDPR-compliant face tracking.One of the coolest features is its unique movement system. Mirokaï balances on a patented omnidirectional ball, allowing it to glide smoothly and silently in any direction. This rolling globe system is perfect for quiet spaces like hospitals and retail stores, where noise can be disruptive. The robot’s articulated arms and hands, complete with opposable thumbs, let it grasp and manipulate objects like trays or boxes with confidence, making it genuinely helpful in everyday tasks.Mirokaï’s face is actually a projection system, which means it can easily change expressions and emotions to match the conversation, creating a more engaging and intuitive interaction. Its movable ears add an extra layer of visual feedback, making it feel even more alive and friendly.For organizations that want to customize Mirokaï’s behavior, there’s an easy-to-use "If This Then That" programming interface. This means you don’t have to be a coding expert to tailor the robot’s functions, whether it’s greeting guests, guiding visitors or carrying out specific duties.GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE Mirokaï the humanoid robot (Enchanted Tools)Working together: Installation and supportEnchanted Tools understands that deploying robots like Mirokaï isn’t just about the technology. It’s also about integration and ongoing support. They collaborate closely with clients around the world to identify the best use cases and ensure smooth implementation. Because robots need maintenance and care, Enchanted Tools partners with local resellers and service providers who are trained to keep Mirokaï running smoothly. This approach guarantees that the robot remains a reliable and helpful presence every day. Mirokaï the humanoid robot (Enchanted Tools)Kurt's key takeawaysAt the end of the day, Mirokaï isn’t just about tech and tasks. It’s about bringing a little wonder into our everyday lives. Whether it’s helping out in a hospital, guiding you in a store or just making you smile with its expressive face, Mirokaï shows that robots can be both useful and delightful. Who knows? The next time you see one, you might just find yourself chatting with a robot that feels a lot more like a friend.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPHow would you feel about sharing your daily life, or even your workplace, with a robot like Mirokaï? Would you welcome that, or does it make you pause and wonder where the line between human and machine should be drawn? Let us know by writing us atCyberguy.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.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt: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.

Join Fox News for access to this content You have reached your maximum number of articles. Log in or create an account FREE of charge to continue reading. By entering your email and pushing continue, you are agreeing to Fox News' Terms of Use and Privacy Policy, which includes our Notice of Financial Incentive. Please enter a valid email address. Ransomware gangs once thrived on infected email attachments and bogus invoices, but security-savvy users and hardened mail gateways have weakened those tactics. Attackers are now focusing on a subtler trick that targets the small checkbox labeled "I'm not a robot" that most people click without thinking. A widespread campaign known as MacReaper has compromised more than 2,800 legitimate websites and redirects visitors to an infection process designed specifically for Apple computers. The operation relies on visual trust signals, including a convincing fake of Google’s reCAPTCHA, along with hidden clipboard code that ends with the installation of Atomic macOS Stealer malware, a data-harvesting infostealer distributed through Telegram. A woman working on her laptop (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)How does the attack unfold?When a Mac user visits one of the compromised websites, they don't see the page they were expecting. Instead, the site displays a full-screen imitation of Google's familiar reCAPTCHA box.This fake reCAPTCHA appears harmless, simply asking the user to click "I'm not a robot." However, when the user clicks the box, a hidden command is silently copied to their clipboard. Immediately afterward, the page displays a friendly message, complete with familiar macOS keyboard shortcut visuals, explicitly instructing the user to open Terminal and paste what they've just copied. If the user follows these instructions, the command downloads and runs the malicious file known as Atomic macOS Stealer (AMOS).This trick is specifically targeted at Mac users. The website checks the visitor's operating system and only activates the attack if it detects macOS. For Windows or Linux users, the site behaves normally. Researchers have dubbed this infection method "ClickFix," referencing the single click that initiates the attack chain.At the center of this campaign is AMOS, a sophisticated piece of malware that has become notorious in cybercrime circles. AMOS is available for rent on Telegram, with some versions costing attackers up to $3,000 per month. Once installed, AMOS can steal a wide array of sensitive data: it can extract Wi-Fi and app passwords stored in Keychain, collect browser cookies and autofill data, list system information and scan through personal folders such as Desktop and Documents. It is also capable of identifying and targeting more than 50 types of cryptocurrency wallets. Fake reCAPTCHA (Cyber Security News) (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Macs aren't as secure as Apple wants you to believeMacReaper challenges two widely held beliefs. The first is that everyday CAPTCHA checks are just harmless speed bumps. The second is that macOS provides a level of built-in security that keeps most attackers at bay. In reality, a single click can expose Keychain credentials, active browser sessions and cryptocurrency wallets.These are exactly the kinds of targets that attract credential-stuffing groups and profit-driven cybercriminals. Because the attack is triggered by the user, many network monitoring tools treat the traffic as normal, leaving security teams with little to investigate. In environments where Macs and Windows machines share identity systems, one compromised Mac can open access to single sign-on portals, cloud storage and even production codebases. A woman working on her laptop (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)6 ways you can stay safe from MacReaper attackTo protect yourself from the evolving threat of the MacReaper attack, which continues to target users through sophisticated social engineering tactics, consider implementing these six essential security measures.1) Be skeptical of CAPTCHA prompts: Legitimate CAPTCHA tests never require you to copy commands or paste anything into Terminal. If a website instructs you to do this, it's likely a scam. Close the page immediately and avoid interacting with it.2) Don't click links from unverified emails and use strong antivirus software: Many MacReaper attacks start with phishing emails that impersonate trusted services. Always verify the sender before clicking on links. If an email seems urgent or unexpected, go directly to the company's official website instead of clicking any links inside the email.The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.3) Enable two-factor authentication: Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone, in addition to your password.4) Keep devices updated: Regularly updating your operating system, browser and security software ensures you have the latest patches against known vulnerabilities. Cybercriminals exploit outdated systems, so enabling automatic updates is a simple but effective way to stay protected.5) Monitor your accounts for suspicious activity and change your passwords: If you've interacted with a suspicious website, phishing email or fake login page, check your online accounts for any unusual activity. Look for unexpected login attempts, unauthorized password resets or financial transactions that you don't recognize. If anything seems off, change your passwords immediately and report the activity to the relevant service provider. Also, consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords. Get more details about my best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 here.6) Invest in a personal data removal service: Consider using a service that monitors your personal information and alerts you to potential breaches or unauthorized use of your data. These services can provide early warning signs of identity theft or other malicious activities resulting from MacReaper or similar attacks. While no service promises to remove all your data from the internet, having a removal service is great if you want to constantly monitor and automate the process of removing your information from hundreds of sites continuously over a longer period of time. Check out my top picks for data removal services here.Kurt's key takeawayMacReaper makes it clear that the most durable exploits aren't zero-days but borrowed moments of trust, an authentic-looking CAPTCHA, a helpful-sounding fix, a clipboard that does what it's told. As Apple tightens the technical screws with Rapid Security Responses and notarization, expect adversaries to double down on such psychological levers. The counter-strategy is to hard-bake healthy skepticism into user behavior and to instrument Macs with the same telemetry layers enterprises already expect from Windows. Security, in other words, has finally become a platform-agnostic muscle, and complacency is the riskiest operating system of all.Do you think tech companies are doing enough to stop malware like MacReaper? Let us know by writing us atCyberguy.com/Contact.For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt:Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

Published May 12, 2025 10:00am EDT close 'CyberGuy': Preventing this insidious email forwarding scam that will drain your bank account Tech expert Kurt Knutsson says business email compromise scams are a serious threat. Hackers have become increasingly sophisticated in targeting bank accounts, sometimes stealing money without the account holder realizing it right away. This raises an unsettling concern among many: could someone actually drain your bank account while making it appear as though your balance remains untouched?As Bruce from Phoenix asks, "Is it true that hackers can wipe out your bank account but make it look like the money is still there?"The short answer is yes, though it’s rare and requires a high level of skill. Still, even the possibility is alarming, especially when you consider how easily people can fall victim to common tactics hackers use to gain access to accounts in the first place. A hacker at work (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)How do hackers access your bank account?There’s a long list of methods cybercriminals use to get into people’s financial accounts, and most of them don’t involve "hacking" in the Hollywood sense. Instead, they rely on tricking you into handing over sensitive information. Here are some of the most common techniques.Fake banking apps and mobile trojans: Some apps are designed to look exactly like your bank’s official app, but they’re actually fakes. If you enter your login info, it goes straight to the scammer. Even more advanced are mobile banking trojans, which hide inside seemingly unrelated apps. Once installed, the trojan watches for when you open your real banking app and then quickly overlays a fake login screen. If you type in your credentials, the trojan grabs them and sends them off to the attacker.Phishing scams: Scammers send emails or texts that appear to be from your bank, asking you to verify a transaction or log in to resolve an issue. These messages often include links to websites that look identical to your bank’s site but are actually fakes. The giveaway is often a small detail, like a misspelled URL. For example, "captial0ne.com" instead of "capitalone.com."Keyloggers: Keyloggers are a type of malware that silently records everything you type. If one gets onto your device, it can capture your banking username, password and anything else you type, all without you knowing.Man-in-the-middle attacks: These attacks happen when hackers intercept the data being transmitted between you and your bank’s website. This is especially risky if you’re on public Wi-Fi. You may think you're logging in securely, but a hacker could be watching everything or even redirecting you to a fake version of your bank's site.SIM swapping: SIM swapping is where a scammer contacts your phone provider, pretends to be you and asks to transfer your number to a new SIM card. If successful, they receive your text messages, including any verification codes sent by your bank. This gives them access to your account, even if two-factor authentication is turned on. A person using a bank card to shop via laptop (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Advanced account manipulationThis is where it gets unsettling. In rare cases, hackers can actually make it look like your bank balance hasn’t changed, even though they’ve already taken the money. How? By targeting the display layer of your banking app or web interface. If malware is installed on your device, it can manipulate what shows up on the screen. That means your balance might look normal, while your actual funds are long gone. This type of attack is extremely rare and usually requires access to a compromised or jailbroken device, but it’s technically possible and just sophisticated enough to delay you from realizing what happened. Bank alert notification on smartphone (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)8 steps to protect your bank account from sophisticated hackersThe good news? You don’t need to be a cybersecurity expert to protect yourself. Just following these key steps can dramatically reduce your risk.1) Use official apps only: Cybercriminals will try to trick you with fake banking apps and mobile trojans that overlay fake login screens, so it’s critical to download banking apps exclusively from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Never install apps from links in emails or texts.2) Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA): SIM-swapping attacks can hijack your phone number and intercept SMS codes, so enable app-based 2FA to block unauthorized logins even if hackers obtain your password.3) Get text or app alerts: Hackers can manipulate your account’s display to hide stolen funds, so set up real-time transaction alerts to expose unauthorized withdrawals immediately, especially for microtransactions used to test your account.4) Use strong, unique passwords: Phishing scams and keyloggers often harvest weak or reused credentials, so use a password manager to generate and store complex passwords. Get more details about my best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 here.5) Avoid clicking suspicious links and install strong antivirus software: Scammers impersonate banks with phishing emails/texts containing misspelled URLs (e.g., "captial0ne.com"), so always navigate directly to your bank’s official website or app instead of clicking embedded links. Strong antivirus software helps protect your devices from fake apps, keyloggers and other threats. The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks of the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.6) Check your accounts regularly: Don’t just glance at your balance. Review recent transactions at least once a week to catch any suspicious activity.7) Avoid public Wi-Fi for banking: Hackers exploit unsecured networks to launch man-in-the-middle attacks and spoof banking sites, so use a VPN to encrypt your connection if you must bank on public Wi-Fi. VPNs will protect you from those who want to track and identify your potential location and the websites that you visit. 8) Use a personal data removal service: Data brokers sell your contact details and personal information, which hackers can use for targeted phishing attacks or SIM swap scams. These services automatically remove your data from broker databases, reducing the risk of social engineering attempts that could compromise your bank account.While no service can guarantee the complete removal of your data from the internet, a data removal service is really a smart choice. They aren’t cheap, and neither is your privacy. These services do all the work for you by actively monitoring and systematically erasing your personal information from hundreds of websites. It’s what gives me peace of mind and has proven to be the most effective way to erase your personal data from the internet. By limiting the information available, you reduce the risk of scammers cross-referencing data from breaches with information they might find on the dark web, making it harder for them to target you. Check out my top picks for data removal services here.Kurt’s key takeawaysHackers don’t need to break into your bank’s system; they just need to trick you. Whether it’s phishing, malware or SIM swaps, the goal is always the same: get access to your login and verification codes. Fortunately, you can make it much harder for them by using secure habits and staying alert. Your money belongs with you, not in the hands of a scammer.Has this ever happened to you or someone you know? Let us know by writing us atCyberguy.com/Contact.For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt: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.