ReportWire

Tag: Hackers

  • Google Fast Pair flaw lets hackers hijack headphones

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    Google designed Fast Pair to make Bluetooth connections fast and effortless. One tap replaces menus, codes and manual pairing. That convenience now comes with serious risk. Security researchers at KU Leuven uncovered flaws in Google’s Fast Pair protocol that allows silent device takeovers. They named the attack method WhisperPair. An attacker nearby can connect to headphones, earbuds or speakers without the owner knowing. In some cases, the attacker can also track the user’s location. Even more concerning, victims do not need to use Android or own any Google products. iPhone users are also affected.

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    APPLE WARNS MILLIONS OF IPHONES ARE EXPOSED TO ATTACK

    Fast Pair makes connecting Bluetooth headphones quick, but researchers found that some devices accept new pairings without proper authorization.       (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    What WhisperPair is and how it hijacks Bluetooth devices

    Fast Pair works by broadcasting a device’s identity to nearby phones and computers. That shortcut speeds up pairing. Researchers found that many devices ignore a key rule. They still accept new pairings while already connected. That opens the door to abuse.

    Within Bluetooth range, an attacker can silently pair with a device in about 10 to 15 seconds. Once connected, they can interrupt calls, inject audio or activate microphones. The attack does not require specialized hardware and can be carried out using a standard phone, laptop, or low-cost device like a Raspberry Pi. According to the researchers, the attacker effectively becomes the device owner.

    Audio brands affected by the Fast Pair vulnerability

    The researchers tested 17 Fast Pair compatible devices from major brands, including Sony, Jabra, JBL, Marshall, Xiaomi, Nothing, OnePlus, Soundcore, Logitech and Google. Most of these products passed Google certification testing. That detail raises uncomfortable questions about how security checks are performed.

    How headphones can become tracking devices

    Some affected models create an even bigger privacy issue. Certain Google and Sony devices integrate with Find Hub, which uses nearby devices to estimate location. If a headset has never been linked to a Google account, an attacker can claim it first. That allows continuous tracking of the user’s movements. If the victim later receives a tracking alert, it may appear to reference their own device. That makes the warning easy to dismiss as an error.

    GOOGLE NEST STILL SENDS DATA AFTER REMOTE CONTROL CUTOFF, RESEARCHER FINDS

    A screenshot of a location screen

    Attacker’s dashboard with location from the Find Hub network. (KU Leuven)

    Why many Fast Pair devices may stay vulnerable

    There is another problem most users never consider. Headphones and speakers require firmware updates. Those updates usually arrive through brand-specific apps that many people never install. If you never download the app, you never see the update. That means vulnerable devices could remain exposed for months or even years.

    The only way to fix this vulnerability is by installing a software update issued by the device manufacturer. While many companies have released patches, updates may not yet be available for every affected model. Users should check directly with the manufacturer to confirm whether a security update exists for their specific device.

    Why convenience keeps creating security gaps

    Bluetooth itself was not the problem. The flaw lives in the convenience layer built on top of it. Fast Pair prioritized speed over strict ownership enforcement. Researchers argue that pairing should require cryptographic proof of ownership. Without it, convenience features become attack surfaces. Security and ease of use do not have to conflict. But they must be designed together.

    Google responds to the Fast Pair WhisperPair security flaws

    Google says it has been working with researchers to address the WhisperPair vulnerabilities and began sending recommended patches to headphone manufacturers in early September. Google also confirmed that its own Pixel headphones are now patched.

    In a statement to CyberGuy, a Google spokesperson said, “We appreciate collaborating with security researchers through our Vulnerability Rewards Program, which helps keep our users safe. We worked with these researchers to fix these vulnerabilities, and we have not seen evidence of any exploitation outside of this report’s lab setting. As a best security practice, we recommend users check their headphones for the latest firmware updates. We are constantly evaluating and enhancing Fast Pair and Find Hub security.”

    Google says the core issue stemmed from some accessory makers not fully following the Fast Pair specification. That specification requires accessories to accept pairing requests only when a user has intentionally placed the device into pairing mode. According to Google, failures to enforce that rule contributed to the audio and microphone risks identified by the researchers.

    To reduce the risk going forward, Google says it updated its Fast Pair Validator and certification requirements to explicitly test whether devices properly enforce pairing mode checks. Google also says it provided accessory partners with fixes intended to fully resolve all related issues once applied.

    On the location tracking side, Google says it rolled out a server-side fix that prevents accessories from being silently enrolled into the Find Hub network if they have never been paired with an Android device. According to the company, this change addresses the Find Hub tracking risk in that specific scenario across all devices, including Google’s own accessories.

    Researchers, however, have raised questions about how quickly patches reach users and how much visibility Google has into real-world abuse that does not involve Google hardware. They also argue that weaknesses in certification allowed flawed implementations to reach the market at scale, suggesting broader systemic issues.

    For now, both Google and the researchers agree on one key point. Users must install manufacturer firmware updates to be protected, and availability may vary by device and brand.

    SMART HOME HACKING FEARS: WHAT’S REAL AND WHAT’S HYPE

    A location screen

    Unwanted tracking notification showing the victim’s own device. (KU Leuven)

    How to reduce your risk right now

    You cannot disable Fast Pair entirely, but you can lower your exposure.

    1) Check if your device is affected

    If you use a Bluetooth accessory that supports Google Fast Pair, including wireless earbuds, headphones or speakers, you may be affected. The researchers created a public lookup tool that lets you search for your specific device model and see whether it is vulnerable. Checking your device is a simple first step before deciding what actions to take. Visit whisperpair.eu/vulnerable-devices to see if your device is on the list.

    2) Update your audio devices

    Install the official app from your headphone or speaker manufacturer. Check for firmware updates and apply them promptly.

    3) Avoid pairing in public places

    Pair new devices in private spaces. Avoid pairing in airports, cafés or gyms where strangers are nearby.

    4) Factory reset if something feels off

    Unexpected audio interruptions, strange sounds or dropped connections are warning signs.  A factory reset can remove unauthorized pairings, but it does not fix the underlying vulnerability. A firmware update is still required.

    5) Turn off Bluetooth when not needed

    Bluetooth only needs to be on during active use. Turning off Bluetooth when not in use limits exposure, but it does not eliminate the underlying risk if the device remains unpatched.

    6) Reset secondhand devices

    Always factory reset used headphones or speakers before pairing them. This removes hidden links and account associations.

    7) Take tracking alerts seriously

    Investigate Find Hub or Apple tracking alerts, even if they appear to reference your own device.

    8) Keep your phone updated

    Install operating system updates promptly. Platform patches can block exploit paths even when accessories lag behind.

    Kurt’s key takeaways

    WhisperPair shows how small shortcuts can lead to large privacy failures. Headphones feel harmless. Yet they contain microphones, radios and software that need care and updates. Ignoring them leaves a blind spot that attackers are happy to exploit. Staying secure now means paying attention to the devices you once took for granted.

    Should companies be allowed to prioritize fast pairing over cryptographic proof of device ownership? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com

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    Copyright 2026 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.

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  • Why clicking the wrong Copilot link could put your data at risk

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    AI assistants are supposed to make life easier. Tools like Microsoft Copilot can help you write emails, summarize documents and answer questions using information from your own account. But security researchers are now warning that a single bad link could quietly turn that convenience into a privacy risk. 

    A newly discovered attack method shows how attackers could hijack a Copilot session and siphon data without you seeing anything suspicious on screen.

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    Because Copilot stays tied to your logged-in Microsoft account, attackers can quietly use your active session to access data in the background. (Photo by Donato Fasano/Getty Images)

    What researchers discovered about Copilot links

    ILLINOIS DHS DATA BREACH EXPOSES 700K RESIDENTS’ RECORDS

    Security researchers at Varonis uncovered a technique they call “Reprompt.” In simple terms, it shows how attackers could sneak instructions into a normal-looking Copilot link and make the AI do things on their behalf.

    Here’s the part that matters to you: Microsoft Copilot is connected to your Microsoft account. Depending on how you use it, Copilot can see your past conversations, things you’ve asked it and certain personal data tied to your account. Normally, Copilot has guardrails to prevent sensitive information from leaking. Reprompt showed a way around some of those protections.

    The attack starts with just one click. If you open a specially crafted Copilot link sent through email or a message, Copilot can automatically process hidden instructions embedded inside the link. You don’t need to install anything, and there are no pop-ups or warnings. After that single click, Copilot can keep responding to instructions in the background using your already logged-in session. Even closing the Copilot tab does not immediately stop the attack, because the session stays active for a while.

    How Reprompt works

    Varonis found that Copilot accepts questions through a parameter inside its web address. Attackers can hide instructions inside that address and make Copilot execute them as soon as the page loads.

    That alone would not be enough, because Copilot tries to block data leaks. The researchers combined several tricks to get around this. First, they injected instructions directly into Copilot through the link itself. This allowed Copilot to read information it normally shouldn’t share.

    Second, they used a “try twice” trick. Copilot applies stricter checks the first time it answers a request. By telling Copilot to repeat the action and double-check itself, the researchers found that those protections could fail on the second attempt.

    Third, they showed that Copilot could keep receiving follow-up instructions from a remote server controlled by the attacker. Each response from Copilot helped generate the next request, allowing data to be quietly sent out piece by piece. The result is an invisible back-and-forth where Copilot keeps working for the attacker using your session. From your perspective, nothing looks wrong.

    MICROSOFT SOUNDS ALARM AS HACKERS TURN TEAMS PLATFORM INTO ‘REAL-WORLD DANGERS’ FOR USERS

    Varonis responsibly reported the issue to Microsoft, and the company fixed it in the January 2026 Patch Tuesday updates. There is no evidence that Reprompt was used in real-world attacks before the fix. Still, this research is important because it shows a bigger problem. AI assistants have access, memory and the ability to act on your behalf. That combination makes them powerful, but also risky if protections fail. As researchers put it, the danger increases when autonomy and access come together.

    It’s also worth noting that this issue only affected Copilot Personal. Microsoft 365 Copilot, which businesses use, has extra security layers like auditing, data loss prevention and admin controls.

    “We appreciate Varonis Threat Labs for responsibly reporting this issue,” a Microsoft spokesperson told CyberGuy. “We have rolled out protections that address the scenario described and are implementing additional measures to strengthen safeguards against similar techniques as part of our defense-in-depth approach.”

    8 steps you can take to stay safe from AI attacks

    Even with the fix in place, these habits will help protect your data as AI tools become more common.

    1) Install Windows and browser updates immediately

    Security fixes only protect you if they’re installed. Attacks like Reprompt rely on flaws that already have patches available. Turn on automatic updates for Windows, Edge and other browsers so you don’t delay critical fixes. Waiting weeks or months leaves a window where attackers can still exploit known weaknesses.

    2) Treat Copilot and AI links like login links

    If you wouldn’t click a random password reset link, don’t click unexpected Copilot links either. Even links that look official can be weaponized. If someone sends you a Copilot link, pause and ask yourself whether you were expecting it. When in doubt, open Copilot manually instead.

    Corporate signage of Microsoft Corp at Microsoft India Development Center

    Even after Microsoft fixed the flaw, the research highlights why limiting data exposure and monitoring account activity still matters as AI tools evolve. (Photographer: Prakash Singh/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

    3) Use a password manager to protect your accounts

    A password manager creates and stores strong, unique passwords for every service you use. If attackers manage to access session data or steal credentials indirectly, unique passwords prevent one breach from unlocking your entire digital life. Many password managers also warn you if a site looks suspicious or fake.

    Next, see if your email has been exposed in past breaches. Our No. 1 password manager pick includes a built-in breach scanner that checks whether your email address or passwords have appeared in known leaks. If you discover a match, immediately change any reused passwords, and secure those accounts with new, unique credentials.

    Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2026 at Cyberguy.com.

    4) Enable two-factor authentication on your Microsoft account

    Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds a second layer of protection, even if attackers gain partial access to your session. It forces an extra verification step, usually through an app or device, making it much harder for someone else to act as you inside Copilot or other Microsoft services.

    5) Reduce how much personal data exists online

    Data broker sites collect and resell personal details like your email address, phone number, home address and even work history. If an AI tool or account session is abused, that publicly available data can make the damage worse. Using a data-removal service helps delete this information from broker databases, shrinking your digital footprint and limiting what attackers can piece together.

    Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com.

    Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: Cyberguy.com.

    6) Run strong antivirus software on your device

    Modern antivirus tools do more than scan files. They help detect phishing links, malicious scripts and suspicious behavior tied to browser activity. Since Reprompt-style attacks start with a single click, having real-time protection can stop you before damage happens, especially when attacks look legitimate.

    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 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.

    7) Regularly review your account activity and settings

    Check your Microsoft account activity for unfamiliar logins, locations, or actions. Review what services Copilot can access, and revoke anything you no longer need. These checks don’t take long, but they can reveal issues early, before attackers have time to do serious damage. Here’s how:

    Go to account.microsoft.com, and sign in to your Microsoft account.

    Select Security, then choose View my sign-in activity and verify your identity if prompted.

    Review each login for unfamiliar locations, devices or failed sign-in attempts.

    If you see anything suspicious, select This wasn’t me or Secure your account, then change your password immediately and enable two-step verification.

    Visit account.microsoft.com/devices, and remove any devices you no longer recognize or use.

    In Microsoft Edge, open Settings > Appearance > Copilot and Sidebar > Copilot, and turn off Allow Microsoft to access page content if you want to limit Copilot’s access.

    Review apps connected to your Microsoft account and revoke permissions you no longer need.

    close up of hands of business person working on computer, man using internet and social media

    A single Copilot link can carry hidden instructions that run the moment you click, without any warning or pop-ups.  (iStock)

    8) Be specific about what you ask AI tools to do

    Avoid giving AI assistants broad authority like “handle whatever is needed.” Wide permissions make it easier for hidden instructions to influence outcomes. Keep requests narrow and task-focused. The less freedom an AI has, the harder it is for malicious prompts to steer it silently.

    Kurt’s key takeaway

    Reprompt doesn’t mean Copilot is unsafe to use, but it does show how much trust these tools require. When an AI assistant can think, remember and act for you, even a single bad click can matter. Keeping your system updated and being selective about what you click remain just as important in the age of AI as it was before.

    Do you feel comfortable letting AI assistants access your personal data, or does this make you more cautious? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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    Copyright 2026 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.

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  • Ransomware attack exposes Social Security numbers at major gas station chain

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    Cybercriminals are happy to target almost any industry where data can be stolen. In many cases, less prepared and less security-focused companies are simply easier targets. 

    A recent ransomware attack on a company tied to dozens of gas stations across Texas shows exactly how this plays out. The incident exposed highly sensitive personal data, including Social Security numbers and driver’s license details, belonging to hundreds of thousands of people. 

    The breach went undetected for days, giving attackers ample time to move through internal systems and steal sensitive data. If you’ve ever paid at the pump or shopped inside one of these convenience stores, this is the kind of incident that should make you stop and pay attention.

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    What happened in the Gulshan ransomware attack

    According to a disclosure filed with the Maine Attorney General’s Office, Gulshan Management Services, Inc. reported a cybersecurity incident that impacted more than 377,000 individuals. Gulshan is linked to Gulshan Enterprises, which operates around 150 Handi Plus and Handi Stop gas stations and convenience stores across Texas.

    WINDOWS 10 USERS FACE RANSOMWARE NIGHTMARE AS MICROSOFT SUPPORT ENDS IN 2025 WORLDWIDE

    The company says it detected unauthorized access to its IT systems in late September. Investigators later determined that attackers had been inside the network for roughly ten days before anyone noticed. The intrusion began with a phishing attack, a reminder of how a single deceptive email can still open the door to massive breaches.

    Ransomware attacks don’t just hit tech companies. Retailers like gas stations store sensitive customer and employee data that criminals actively target. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    During that window, the attackers accessed and stole personal data, then deployed ransomware that encrypted files across Gulshan’s systems. The compromised information includes names, contact details, Social Security numbers and driver’s license numbers. That combination is especially dangerous, since it can be used for identity theft, account takeovers and fraud that may surface months or even years later.

    Why the lack of a ransomware claim still matters

    So far, no known ransomware group has publicly taken credit for the attack. That might sound like good news, but it does not necessarily change the risk for affected individuals. In many ransomware cases, silence can mean one of two things. Either the attackers have not yet posted stolen data publicly, or the victim company may have resolved the incident privately.

    Gulshan’s filing states that it restored its systems using known-safe backups. That detail often suggests a company chose to rebuild rather than negotiate with attackers. Even so, once data has been copied out of a network, there is no way to pull it back. Whether or not the stolen information ever appears online, the exposure alone puts affected people at long-term risk.

    This incident also highlights a recurring pattern. Retail and service businesses handle huge volumes of personal data but often rely on legacy systems and frontline employees who are prime phishing targets. Gas stations may not feel like obvious hacking targets, but their payment systems, loyalty programs and HR databases make them valuable all the same.

    We reached out to Gulshan Management Services for comment regarding the breach, but did not receive a response before our deadline.

    Texas gas station customer

    A customer pumps gas at a gas station on Feb. 13, 2025, in Austin, Texas.  (Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

    10 steps you can take to protect yourself after a breach like this

    If your information was exposed in this breach or any similar ransomware incident, there are concrete steps you can take to reduce the fallout.

    1) Monitor your credit and identity closely

    If the company offers free credit monitoring or identity protection, enroll in it. These services can alert you early if someone tries to open accounts or misuse your identity. If nothing is offered, consider signing up for a reputable identity theft protection service on your own.

    Identity Theft companies can monitor personal information like your Social Security Number (SSN), 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 at Cyberguy.com.

    2) Consider a personal data removal service

    The less of your information that’s floating around data broker sites, the harder it is for criminals to target you. Data removal services can help reduce your digital footprint over time.

    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.

    Frontier fallout as 750K customers' data exposed in RansomHub cyberattack

    Even when no ransomware group claims responsibility, stolen data can still fuel identity theft, fraud, and account takeovers long after a breach occurs. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com.

    Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: Cyberguy.com.

    3) Use a password manager

    A password manager helps you create and store unique passwords for every account. If attackers try to reuse stolen data to break into your online accounts, strong, unique passwords can stop that attempt cold.

    Next, see if your email has been exposed in past breaches. Our No. 1 password manager pick includes a built-in breach scanner that checks whether your email address or passwords have appeared in known leaks. If you discover a match, immediately change any reused passwords and secure those accounts with new, unique credentials.

    FIBER BROADBAND GIANT INVESTIGATES BREACH AFFECTING 1M USERS

    Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2026 at Cyberguy.com.

    4) Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) everywhere possible

    2FA adds an extra barrier, even if someone has your personal details. Prioritize email, banking, cloud storage, and shopping accounts, since those are often targeted first.

    5) Install and keep a strong antivirus software running

    Strong antivirus software can help detect phishing attempts, malicious downloads, and suspicious activity before it turns into a full compromise. Keep real-time protection enabled and don’t ignore warnings.

    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 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.

    6) Watch for phishing and follow-up scams

    After breaches like this, scammers often send fake emails or texts pretending to be the affected company or a credit monitoring service. Slow down, verify messages independently, and never click links you weren’t expecting.

    7) Review your credit reports regularly

    Check your reports from all major credit bureaus for unfamiliar accounts or inquiries. You’re entitled to free reports, and catching issues early makes them much easier to fix.

    8) Freeze your credit to stop new accounts from being opened

    If criminals expose your Social Security number, place a credit freeze as soon as possible. A credit freeze blocks lenders from opening new accounts in your name, even when thieves have your personal details. The credit bureaus offer freezes for free, and you can temporarily lift one when you apply for credit yourself. This step stops identity theft before it starts, instead of alerting you after the damage is done. If you prefer not to freeze your credit, place a fraud alert instead. A fraud alert tells lenders to verify your identity before approving credit, which adds another layer of protection.

    To learn more about how to do this, go to Cyberguy.com and search “How to freeze your credit.” 

    Person using their smartphone.

    In the Gulshan attack, hackers spent days inside internal systems, stealing personal data before deploying ransomware that locked down files. (Silas Stein/picture alliance via Getty Images)

    9) Protect yourself from tax refund fraud with an IRS Identity Protection PIN

    When Social Security numbers are stolen, tax fraud often follows. Criminals can file fake tax returns in your name to steal refunds before you ever submit your paperwork. An IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) helps prevent this by ensuring only you can file a tax return using your SSN. It’s a simple but powerful safeguard that can block a common form of identity theft tied to data breaches.

    10) Lock down existing bank and financial accounts

    Don’t just watch for new fraud, proactively secure the accounts you already have. Enable alerts on bank and credit card accounts for large transactions, new payees, or changes to contact information. If your SSN or driver’s license number was exposed, consider calling your bank to ask about additional protections or account notes. Acting early can prevent small issues from becoming major financial problems.

    Kurt’s key takeaway

    Your personal data doesn’t just live with banks and hospitals. Retailers, gas stations, and convenience store operators also hold information that can cause real harm if it falls into the wrong hands. When attackers get in through something as simple as a phishing email and stay undetected for days, the damage can spread fast. You can’t prevent these breaches yourself, but you can limit how much power stolen data gives criminals by locking down your accounts and staying alert.

    Do you think everyday businesses like gas stations take cybersecurity seriously enough? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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    Copyright 2026 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.

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  • Web skimming attacks target major payment networks

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    Online shopping feels familiar and fast, but a hidden threat continues to operate behind the scenes. 

    Researchers are tracking a long-running web skimming campaign that targets businesses connected to major payment networks. Web skimming is a technique where criminals secretly add malicious code to checkout pages so they can steal payment details as shoppers type them in. 

    These attacks work quietly inside the browser and often leave no obvious signs. Most victims only discover the problem after unauthorized charges appear on their statements.

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    WHATSAPP WEB MALWARE SPREADS BANKING TROJAN AUTOMATICALLY

    Web skimming attacks hide inside checkout pages and steal card details as shoppers type them in. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    What Magecart is and why it matters

    Magecart is the name researchers use for groups that specialize in web-skimming attacks. These attacks focus on online stores where shoppers enter payment details during checkout. Instead of hacking banks or card networks directly, attackers slip malicious code into a store’s checkout page. That code is written in JavaScript, which is a common type of website code used to make pages interactive. Legitimate sites use it for things like forms, buttons and payment processing.

    In Magecart attacks, criminals abuse that same code to secretly copy card numbers, expiration dates, security codes and billing details as shoppers type them in. The checkout still works, and the purchase goes through, so there is no obvious warning sign. Magecart originally described attacks against Magento-based online stores. Today, the term applies to web-skimming campaigns across many e-commerce platforms and payment systems.

    Which payment providers are being targeted?

    Researchers say this campaign targets merchants tied to several major payment networks, including:

    • American Express
    • Diners Club
    • Discover, a subsidiary of Capital One
    • JCB Co., Ltd.
    • Mastercard
    • UnionPay

    Large enterprises that rely on these payment providers face a higher risk due to complex websites and third-party integrations.

    700CREDIT DATA BREACH EXPOSES SSNS OF 5.8M CONSUMERS

    A woman holds a credit card as she types on her laptop.

    Criminals use hidden code to copy payment data while the purchase still goes through normally. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    How attackers slip skimmers into checkout pages

    Attackers usually enter through weak points that are easy to overlook. Common entry paths include vulnerable third-party scripts, outdated plugins and unpatched content management systems. Once inside, they inject JavaScript directly into the checkout flow. The skimmer monitors form fields tied to card data and personal details, then quietly sends that information to attacker-controlled servers.

    Why web skimming attacks are hard to detect

    To avoid detection, the malicious JavaScript is heavily obfuscated. Some versions can remove themselves when they detect an admin session, which makes inspections appear clean. Researchers also found the campaign uses bulletproof hosting. These hosting providers ignore abuse reports and takedown requests, giving attackers a stable environment to operate. Because web skimmers run inside the browser, they can bypass many server-side fraud controls used by merchants and payment providers.

    Who Magecart web skimming attacks affect most

    Magecart campaigns impact three groups at the same time:

    • Shoppers who unknowingly give up card data
    • Merchants whose checkout pages are compromised
    • Payment providers that detect fraud after the damage is done

    This shared exposure makes detection slower and response more difficult.

    NEW MALWARE CAN READ YOUR CHATS AND STEAL YOUR MONEY

    Selling on the internet? Beware of sneaky tactics scammers use to trick you

    Simple protections like virtual cards and transaction alerts can limit damage and expose fraud faster. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    How to stay safe as a shopper

    While shoppers cannot fix compromised checkout pages, a few smart habits can reduce exposure, limit how stolen data is used, and help catch fraud faster.

    1) Use virtual or single-use cards

    Virtual and single-use cards are digital card numbers that link to your real credit or debit account without exposing the actual number. They work like a normal card at checkout, but add an extra layer of protection. Most people already have access to them through services they use every day, including:

    Major banks and credit card issuers that offer virtual card numbers inside their apps

    Mobile wallet apps like Apple Pay and Google Pay generate temporary card numbers for online purchases, keeping your real card number hidden.

    Some payment apps and browser tools that create one-time or merchant-locked card numbers

    A single-use card typically works for one purchase or expires shortly after use. A virtual card can stay active for one store and be paused or deleted later. If a web skimming attack captures one of these numbers, attackers usually cannot reuse it elsewhere or run up repeat charges, which limits financial damage and makes fraud easier to stop.

    2) Turn on transaction alerts

    Transaction alerts notify you the moment your card is used, even for small purchases. If web skimming leads to fraud, these alerts can expose unauthorized charges quickly and give you a chance to freeze the card before losses grow. For example, a $2 test charge on your card can signal fraud before larger purchases appear.

    3) Lock down financial accounts

    Use strong, unique passwords for banking and card portals to reduce the risk of account takeover. A password manager helps generate and store them securely.

    Next, see if your email has been exposed in past breaches. Our No. 1 password manager pick includes a built-in breach scanner that checks whether your email address or passwords have appeared in known leaks. If you discover a match, immediately change any reused passwords and secure those accounts with new, unique credentials.

    Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2026 at Cyberguy.com.

    4) Install strong antivirus software

    Strong antivirus software can block connections to malicious domains used to collect skimmed data and warn you about unsafe websites.

    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 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.

    5) Use a data removal service

    Data removal services can reduce how much personal information is exposed online, making it harder for criminals to pair stolen card data with full identity details.

    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 and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com.

    Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: Cyberguy.com.

    6) Watch for unexpected card activity

    Review statements regularly, even for small charges, since attackers often test stolen cards with low-value transactions.

    Kurt’s key takeaways

    Magecart web skimming shows how attackers can exploit trusted checkout pages without disrupting the shopping experience. While consumers cannot fix compromised sites, simple safeguards can reduce risk and help catch fraud early. Online payments rely on trust, but this campaign shows why that trust should always be paired with caution.

    Does knowing how web skimming works make you rethink how safe online checkout really is?  Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

    CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

    Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report 
    Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide – free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter. 

    Copyright 2026 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.

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  • Fiber broadband giant investigates breach affecting 1M users

    NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

    Brightspeed, one of the largest fiber broadband providers in the United States, is investigating claims that hackers stole sensitive data tied to more than 1 million customers.

    The allegations surfaced when a group calling itself the Crimson Collective posted messages on Telegram warning Brightspeed employees to check their email. The group claims it has access to over 1 million residential customer records and threatened to release sample data if the company does not respond.

    At this point, Brightspeed has not confirmed a breach. However, the company says it is actively investigating what it calls a potential cybersecurity event.

    DATA BREACH EXPOSES 400,000 BANK CUSTOMERS’ INFO

    Fiber networks carry massive amounts of personal data, which makes internet providers attractive targets for extortion groups. (Philip Dulian/picture alliance via Getty Images)

    Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy ReportGet my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide — free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter 

    What the hackers say they stole

    According to Crimson Collective, the stolen data includes a wide range of personally identifiable information. The group claims it has access to:

    • Customer names, email addresses and phone numbers
    • Home and billing addresses
    • User account details linked to session or user IDs
    • Payment history and partial payment card information
    • Appointment and order records tied to customer accounts

    If accurate, that combination of data could create serious identity theft and fraud risks for affected customers.

    Brightspeed responds to the allegations

    Brightspeed says it takes the situation seriously, even as it continues to verify the claims.

    In a statement shared with BleepingComputer, the company said it is rigorously monitoring threats and working to understand what happened. Brightspeed added that it will keep customers, employees and authorities informed as more details become available.

    So far, there has been no public notice on Brightspeed’s website or social media channels confirming customer data exposure.

    Who Brightspeed is and why this matters

    Brightspeed is a U.S. telecommunications and internet service provider founded in 2022 after Apollo Global Management acquired local exchange assets from Lumen Technologies.

    Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, the company serves rural and suburban communities across 20 states. It has rapidly expanded its fiber footprint, passing more than 2 million homes and businesses and aiming to reach over 5 million locations.

    Because Brightspeed focuses on underserved areas, many customers rely on it as their primary internet provider. That makes any potential breach especially concerning.

    A closer look at Crimson Collective

    Crimson Collective is not new to high-profile targets. In October, the group breached a GitLab instance tied to Red Hat, stealing hundreds of gigabytes of internal development data.

    That incident later rippled outward. In December, Nissan confirmed that personal data for about 21,000 Japanese customers was exposed through the same breach.

    More recently, researchers say Crimson Collective has targeted cloud environments, including Amazon Web Services, by abusing exposed credentials and creating rogue access accounts to escalate privileges.

    In other words, the group has a track record that makes its claims hard to ignore.

    What this could mean for customers

    Even though Brightspeed has not confirmed a breach, the claims alone are enough to raise red flags. If customer data was accessed, it could be used for phishing scams, account takeovers or payment fraud.

    Cybercriminals often move fast after breaches. That means customers should stay alert even before an official notice appears.

    CyberGuy reached out to Brightspeed for comment, and a spokesperson told us,

    “We take the security of our networks and protection of our customers’ and employees’ information seriously and are rigorous in securing our networks and monitoring threats. We are currently investigating reports of a cybersecurity event. As we learn more, we will keep our customers, employees, stakeholders and authorities informed.”

    JANUARY SCAMS SURGE: WHY FRAUD SPIKES AT THE START OF THE YEAR

    How to protect your personal data and online accounts

    Even if this Brightspeed investigation does not end up impacting your account, these steps are worth following. Most data breaches lead to the same downstream risks, like phishing scams, account takeovers and identity theft. Building these habits now can help protect you across all your online accounts.

    Woman typing on her phone.

    Cybercriminals often use public posts and countdowns to pressure companies into responding quickly. (Sebastian Kahnert/picture alliance via Getty Images)

    1) Watch for phishing attempts

    Scammers often take advantage of breach headlines to create panic. Be cautious with emails, calls or texts that mention your internet account billing problems or service changes. If a message pushes urgency or pressure, pause before responding.

    2) Avoid suspicious links and attachments

    Do not click links or open attachments tied to account notices or payment issues. Instead, open a new browser window and go directly to the company’s official website or app. Strong antivirus software adds another layer of protection against malicious 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 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com

    3) Update your account passwords

    Change your Brightspeed account password and review passwords on other important accounts. Use strong, unique passwords that you do not reuse elsewhere. A trusted password manager can generate and store complex passwords, which makes account takeovers much harder.

    Next, see if your email has been exposed in past breaches. Our #1 password manager (see Cyberguy.com/Passwords) pick includes a built-in breach scanner that checks whether your email address or passwords have appeared in known leaks. If you discover a match, immediately change any reused passwords and secure those accounts with new, unique credentials.

    Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2026 at Cyberguy.com

    4) Reduce your data footprint

    Personal data spreads quietly across data broker sites. Using a data removal service can help limit how much of your information is publicly available. Less exposed data means fewer opportunities for scammers to target you.

    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 and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com

    Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: Cyberguy.com

    5) Turn on account alerts

    Brightspeed lets customers turn on account and billing alerts through the My Brightspeed site or app. You can choose which notifications you receive by email or text. Alerts can help you catch unusual activity early and respond before more damage occurs.

    6) Monitor your financial accounts closely

    Check bank and credit card statements often. Look for small or unfamiliar charges since criminals sometimes test stolen data with low-dollar transactions before attempting larger fraud.

    7) Consider fraud alerts or a credit freeze

    If sensitive information may have been exposed, placing a fraud alert or credit freeze can add protection. These steps make it harder for criminals to open new accounts in your name. To learn more about how to do this, go to Cyberguy.com and search “How to freeze your credit.” 

    You may also want to consider an identity theft protection service that monitors for suspicious activity and sends alerts. Identity Theft companies can monitor personal information like your Social Security number (SSN), 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 at Cyberguy.com

    Woman holds her face after looking at her computer

    When personal and billing information is exposed, the risk extends beyond one company to everyday customers. (Pixelfit/Getty Images)

    Kurt’s key takeaways

    Brightspeed’s investigation is still unfolding, and the company says it will share updates as it learns more. Until then, the claims highlight how valuable customer data has become and how aggressively extortion groups are targeting infrastructure providers. For customers, caution is the best defense. For companies, transparency and speed will matter if these claims turn out to be real.

    Do you feel companies are doing enough to keep your personal data safe? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com

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    Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide — free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter 

    Copyright 2026 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.

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  • WhatsApp Web malware spreads banking trojan automatically

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    A new malware campaign is turning WhatsApp Web into a weapon. Security researchers say a banking Trojan linked to Astaroth is now spreading automatically through chat messages, making the attack harder to stop once it starts. 

    The campaign is known as Boto Cor-de-Rosa. It shows how cybercriminals keep evolving, especially when they can abuse tools people trust every day. This attack focuses on Windows users and uses WhatsApp Web as both the delivery system and the engine that spreads the infection further.

    Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report

    Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts, and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide — free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter.

    BROWSER EXTENSION MALWARE INFECTED 8.8M USERS IN DARKSPECTRE ATTACK

    Attackers abuse WhatsApp Web to spread malware through messages that appear to come from people you trust. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    How this WhatsApp Web attack works

    The attack starts with a simple message. A contact sends what looks like a routine ZIP file through WhatsApp. The file name appears random and harmless, which lowers suspicion. Once opened, the ZIP contains a Visual Basic script disguised as a normal document. If the user runs it, the script quietly pulls in two more pieces of malware. Then the script downloads the Astaroth banking malware written in Delphi. It also installs a Python-based module designed to control WhatsApp Web. Both components run in the background without obvious warning signs. From there, the infection becomes self-sustaining.

    Malware that spreads itself through your contacts

    What makes this campaign especially dangerous is how it propagates. The Python module scans the victim’s WhatsApp contacts and sends the malicious ZIP file to every conversation automatically. Researchers at Acronis found that the malware adapts its messages based on the time of day. It sends friendly greetings, making the message feel normal and familiar. The text reads, “Here is the requested file. If you have any questions, I’m available!” Because the message appears to come from someone you know, many people open it without hesitation.

    NEW MALWARE CAN READ YOUR CHATS AND STEAL YOUR MONEY

    Person holds iPhone showing the Whatsapp logo

    A single ZIP file sent through chat can quietly install banking malware and begin spreading to every contact. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    Built-in tracking keeps the attack efficient

    This malware is carefully designed to monitor its own performance in real time. The propagation tool tracks how many messages are successfully delivered, how many fail to send, and the overall sending speed measured per minute. After every 50 messages, it generates progress updates that show how many contacts have been reached. This feedback allows attackers to measure success quickly and make adjustments if something stops working.

    What happens after infection

    The initial script is heavily obfuscated to avoid detection by antivirus tools. Once it runs, it launches PowerShell commands that download more malware from compromised websites. One known domain used in this campaign is coffe-estilo.com. The malware installs itself inside a folder that mimics a Microsoft Edge cache directory. Inside are executable files and libraries that make up the full Astaroth banking payload. From there, the malware can steal credentials, monitor activity and potentially access financial accounts.

    Why WhatsApp Web is being abused

    WhatsApp Web is popular because it mirrors your phone conversations on a computer. That convenience makes it easy to send messages, share files and type faster, but it also introduces risk. When you use WhatsApp Web, you link your phone to a browser by scanning a QR code at web.whatsapp.com. Once connected, that browser session becomes a trusted extension of your account. Your chats appear on the screen, messages you send come from your real number and incoming messages sync across both devices.

    That setup is exactly what attackers take advantage of. If malware gains access to a computer with WhatsApp Web logged in, it can act as the user. It can read messages, access contact lists and send files or links that look completely legitimate. The messages do not raise alarms because they are coming from a real account, not a fake one.

    This is what turns WhatsApp Web into an effective delivery system for malware. Instead of breaking into WhatsApp itself, attackers simply abuse an open browser session to spread malicious files automatically. Many users do not realize the danger because WhatsApp Web feels harmless. It is often left signed in on work computers, shared devices or systems without strong security. In those situations, malware does not need advanced tricks. It only needs access to an already trusted session. That combination of convenience and trust is why WhatsApp Web has become such an attractive target.

    MALICIOUS MAC EXTENSIONS STEAL CRYPTO WALLETS AND PASSWORDS

    A person typing on a laptop. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)  

    Once WhatsApp Web is compromised, malware can act like the user, sending messages and files that look completely legitimate.  (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    How to stay safe from WhatsApp Web malware

    Attacks like this WhatsApp Web malware are designed to spread fast through trusted conversations. A few smart habits can dramatically lower your risk.

    1) Be skeptical of unexpected attachments

    Messaging apps feel casual, which is exactly why attackers use them. Never open ZIP files sent through chat unless you confirm with the sender first. Watch for file names made of random numbers or unfamiliar names. Treat messages that create urgency or feel overly familiar as a warning sign. If a file arrives out of nowhere, pause before clicking.

    2) Lock down WhatsApp Web access

    This campaign abuses WhatsApp Web to spread automatically once a device is infected. Check active WhatsApp Web sessions and log out of any you do not recognize. Avoid leaving WhatsApp Web signed in on shared or public computers. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) inside WhatsApp settings. Cutting off Web access helps limit how far malware can travel.

    3) Keep your Windows PC locked down and use strong antivirus software 

    This type of malware takes advantage of systems that fall behind on updates. Install Windows updates as soon as they are available. Also, keep your web browser fully updated. Staying current closes many of the doors attackers try to slip through. In addition, use strong antivirus software that watches for script abuse and PowerShell activity in real time.

    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 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.

    4) Limit how much of your personal data is online

    Banking malware often pairs with identity theft and financial fraud. One way to reduce the fallout is by shrinking your digital footprint. A data removal service can help remove your personal information from data broker sites that attackers often search. With less information available, criminals have fewer details to exploit if malware reaches your device.

    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 and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com.

    Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: Cyberguy.com

    5) Add identity theft protection for extra coverage

    Even with strong security habits, financial monitoring adds another layer of protection. An identity theft protection service can watch for suspicious activity tied to your credit and personal data. Identity theft companies can monitor personal information like your Social Security number (SSN), 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.

    You should also turn on alerts for bank and credit card transactions so you are notified quickly if something looks wrong. The less exposed your data is, the fewer opportunities attackers have to cause damage.

    See my tips and best picks on how to protect yourself from identity theft at Cyberguy.com.

    6) Slow down and trust your instincts

    Most malware infections happen because people act too quickly. If a message feels off, trust that instinct. Familiar names and friendly language can lower your guard, but they should never replace caution. Take a moment to verify the message or file before opening anything. Attackers rely on trust and urgency to succeed. Slowing down takes away their advantage.

    Kurt’s key takeaways

    This WhatsApp Web malware campaign is a reminder that cyberattacks no longer rely on obvious red flags. Instead, they blend into everyday conversations and use familiar tools to spread quietly and quickly. What makes this threat especially concerning is how little effort it takes for it to move from one device to dozens of others. A single click can turn a trusted chat into a delivery system for banking malware and identity theft. The good news is that small changes make a big difference. Paying attention to attachments, locking down WhatsApp Web access, keeping devices updated and slowing down before clicking can stop these attacks cold. As messaging platforms continue to play a bigger role in daily life, staying alert is no longer optional. Awareness and simple habits remain some of the strongest defenses you have.

    Do you think messaging apps are doing enough to protect users from malware that spreads through trusted conversations?  Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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    Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report 

    Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts, and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide — free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter. 

    Copyright 2026 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.

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  • January scams surge: Why fraud spikes at the start of the year

    NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

    Every January, I hear from people who say the same thing: “I just got an email that looked official, and I almost fell for it.” That’s not a coincidence. January is one of the busiest months of the year for scammers. While most of us are focused on taxes, benefits, subscriptions, and getting our finances in order, criminals are doing their own kind of cleanup, refreshing scam lists and going after people with newly updated personal data. If you’ve ever received a message claiming your account needs to be “verified,” your benefits are at risk, or your tax information is incomplete, this article is for you.

    Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report

    Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts, and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide — free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter.

    10 SIMPLE CYBERSECURITY RESOLUTIONS FOR A SAFER 2026

    Scam messages often look urgent and official, pushing you to act before you have time to think. That pressure is exactly what criminals rely on. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    Why January is prime time for scammers

    January is when scammers have everything they need. According to YouMail’s Robocall Index, U.S. consumers received just over 4.7 billion robocalls in January 2025, a roughly 9% increase from December 2024. This year, we can expect the same pattern from scammers.

    They know:

    But the biggest reason scams spike now? Your personal data is easier to find than you think. Data brokers quietly collect and update profiles year after year. By January, those profiles are often more complete than ever, and scammers know it.

    The “account verification” scam you’ll see everywhere

    One of the most common January scams looks harmless at first. You get a message saying:

    • “Your Social Security account needs verification”
    • “Your Medicare information has to be updated”
    • “Your benefits could be delayed without action”

    The message sounds official. Sometimes it even uses your real name or location. That’s where people get tricked. Government agencies don’t ask for sensitive information through random emails or texts. Scammers rely on urgency and familiarity to push you into reacting before thinking.

    My rule: If you didn’t initiate the request, don’t respond to it. Always go directly to the agency’s official website or phone number, never through a link sent to you.

    MAKE 2026 YOUR MOST PRIVATE YEAR YET BY REMOVING BROKER DATA

    A person typing on a laptop. (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)  

    January is a prime time for fraud because people are dealing with taxes, benefits and account updates. Scammers know these messages feel expected and familiar. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    Fake tax and benefits notices ramp up in January

    Another favorite scam this time of year involves taxes and refunds.

    You may see:

    • Emails claiming you owe back taxes
    • Messages saying you’re due a refund
    • Notices asking you to “confirm” banking information.

    These scams work because they arrive at exactly the moment people expect to hear from tax agencies or benefits programs.

    Scammers don’t need much to sound convincing. A name, an email address or an old address is often enough. If you get a tax-related message out of the blue, slow down. Real agencies don’t pressure you to act immediately.

    Subscription “problems” that aren’t real

    January is also when subscription scams explode. Fake messages claim:

    Scammers know most people have subscriptions, so they play the odds. Instead of clicking, open the app or website directly. If there’s a real problem, you’ll see it there.

    Why these scams feel so personal

    People often tell me, “But they used my name, how did they know?” Here’s the uncomfortable truth: They probably bought it. Data brokers compile massive profiles that include:

    • Address histories
    • Phone numbers and emails
    • Family connections
    • Shopping behavior.

    That data is sold, shared and leaked. Once scammers have it, they can tailor messages that feel real, because they’re built on real information.

    10 WAYS TO PROTECT SENIORS FROM EMAIL SCAMS

    The more personal data scammers have, the more convincing their messages become. Removing your information from data broker sites can help reduce targeted scams over time.

    The more personal data scammers have, the more convincing their messages become. Removing your information from data broker sites can help reduce targeted scams over time. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    What you should do right now

    Before January gets any busier, take these steps to reduce your exposure to scams and fraud:

    1) Remove your personal data from broker sites

    Deleting emails or blocking numbers helps, but it does not stop scams at the source. Scammers rely on data broker sites that quietly collect, update and sell your personal information. Removing your data from those sites reduces scam calls, phishing emails and targeted texts over time. It also makes it harder for criminals to personalize messages using your real name, address or family connections. You have two ways to do this:

    Do it yourself:

    You can visit individual data broker websites, search for your profile and submit opt-out requests.This method works, but it takes time. Each site has its own rules, identity verification steps, and response timelines. Many brokers also re-add data later, which means you have to repeat the process regularly.

    Use a data removal service:

    A data removal service automates the opt-out process by contacting hundreds of data brokers on your behalf and monitoring for re-listings. This option saves time and provides ongoing protection, especially if you want long-term results without constant follow-ups.

    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, and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com

    Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: Cyberguy.com

    2) Don’t click links in unexpected messages

    If you did not initiate the request, do not click. Scam messages are designed to create urgency, especially around taxes, benefits and account issues. Instead, go directly to the official website by typing the address yourself or using a saved bookmark. This single habit prevents most phishing attacks.

    3) Turn on two-factor authentication wherever possible

    Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds a critical second layer of protection. Even if someone gets your password, they still cannot access your account without the second verification code. Start with email, financial accounts, social media and government services.

    4) Check accounts only through official apps or websites

    If you receive a warning about an account problem, do not trust the message itself. Open the official app or website, and check there. If something is wrong, you will see it immediately. If not, you just avoided a scam.

    5) Watch for account alerts and login activity

    Enable login alerts and security notifications on important accounts. These alerts can warn you if someone tries to sign in from a new device or location. Early warnings give you time to act before real damage occurs.

    6) Use strong, unique passwords and a password manager

    Reusing passwords makes it easy for scammers to take over multiple accounts at once. If one service is compromised, attackers try the same login on email, banking, and social media accounts. A password manager helps you create and store strong, unique passwords for every account without needing to remember them. Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2026 at Cyberguy.com.

    CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

    Kurt’s key takeaways

    January scams aren’t random. They’re targeted, timed and fueled by personal data that shouldn’t be public in the first place. The longer your information stays online, the easier it is for scammers to use it against you. If you want a quieter inbox, fewer scam calls and less risk this year, take action early, before criminals finish rebuilding their lists. Protect your data now, and you’ll be safer all year long.

    Have you noticed more scam emails, texts or calls since the new year started? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

    Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report. Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts, and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide — free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter. 

    Copyright 2026 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.

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  • Instagram password reset surge: Protect your account

    NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

    If your inbox suddenly shows an Instagram “Reset your password” email you never requested, you are not alone. A wave of unexpected reset messages is hitting people right now, and attackers are betting you will panic, click fast and make a mistake.

    Here is the tricky part. Many of these emails are real. They can come directly from Instagram because someone triggered the legitimate password reset flow. That makes the alert feel extra convincing, even when you did nothing wrong.

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    FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM ARE USING YOUR DATA TO TRAIN AI: LEARN HOW TO PROTECT IT

    Unexpected Instagram password reset emails can look completely legitimate, which is why so many users are caught off guard during this surge. (Cyverguy.com)

    Why Instagram password reset emails are surging

    This surge is happening because the reset emails themselves can be real, even when the intent behind them is not. Instead of building fake phishing pages or using malware, attackers take advantage of Instagram’s normal account recovery system.

    The process is simple. An attacker enters your username or email into Instagram’s real password reset form. Instagram automatically sends a legitimate reset email to you. The attacker then waits to see how you react.

    At this point, your account has not been hacked. The risk comes from what happens next. Attackers are counting on common mistakes, such as clicking the reset button and rushing through the process, reusing a weak password, getting redirected to a fake follow-up page or falling for a second scam email that arrives soon after.

    That is why this tactic works as a stress test. It creates urgency and pressure, even though nothing has been compromised yet.

    Why attackers love this tactic

    This is classic social engineering. The attacker does not need to outsmart Instagram. They need to outsmart you in a stressed moment. A reset email creates urgency. It also feels official. That combination leads people to click first and think second, which is exactly the outcome attackers want. You can treat these surprise reset emails as an early warning system. If you get one:

    • Someone may know your username or email
    • Your account could be on a target list from a leak or scrape
    • Your current security setup will decide whether this stays annoying or turns into a takeover

    If an email pressures you to act immediately, threatens account deletion or asks for extra information, treat it as suspicious.

    The BreachForums leak connection

    The timing of this surge has raised fresh concerns. Reports point to data tied to roughly 17.5 million Instagram accounts being shared on BreachForums, an underground forum where cybercriminals trade and discuss stolen data. The alleged post appeared in early January 2026, which lines up with when many users began reporting a sudden wave of password reset emails, sometimes receiving several in a short period of time.

    This timing alone does not prove a direct connection. However, leaked usernames or email addresses can make it much easier for attackers to target large numbers of accounts at once, which is exactly what this kind of reset spam depends on. We reached out to Meta for comment but did not receive a response before our deadline. 

    We reached out to Meta for comment, and a spokesperson for the company told CyberGuy, “We fixed an issue that allowed an external party to request password reset emails for some Instagram users. We want to reassure everyone there was no breach of our systems and people’s Instagram accounts remain secure. People can disregard these emails and we apologize for any confusion this may have caused.” 

    How to tell if the reset email is legitimate

    A legitimate Instagram reset email can still be part of an attack attempt. So your goal is not “confirm it is real,” it is “avoid reacting in a risky way.” Instagram’s own guidance boils down to this:

    • A reset email alone does not mean your account is compromised
    • If you did not request it, do not use the link
    • Use Instagram’s official paths in the app to review security and report suspicious messages

    Also, if you get emails about changing your account email address, Instagram says those messages can include a way to reverse the change, which can help you recover if someone broke in.

    Instagram icon on an iPhone sitting on table.

    These real-looking messages are designed to create urgency and push people to click before slowing down and checking their account security. (Cyverguy.com)

    What a real Instagram password reset email looks like

    A legitimate reset email usually has these elements:

    • Sender: Comes from an official Instagram domain, such as security@mail.instagram.com
    • Subject line: Often says “Reset your Instagram password” or “Password reset request”
    • Instagram branding: Logo at the top with clean formatting
    • Call to action button: A button like “Reset Password”
    • Reassurance text: A line explaining that if you did not request this, you can ignore the email and nothing will change
    • Safety option: Language telling you how to report the email if you did not initiate it

    This is why the current surge is so effective. The emails look normal and arrive from real Instagram systems. 

    META ENDS FACT-CHECKING PROGRAM AS ZUCKERBERG VOWS TO RESTORE FREE EXPRESSION ON FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM

    What Instagram reset alerts can look like inside the app

    You may also see security messages directly in Instagram, such as:

    • Login attempt alerts
    • Notifications about a password reset request
    • Prompts asking you to confirm a login from a new device

    These in-app alerts are generally safer to interact with than email links, especially during a surge.

    What scammers rely on

    Attackers are counting on one thing: panic. When users see a reset email they did not request, many rush to click before reading the fine print. That fast reaction is what turns a harmless reset request into a real account takeover.

    What to do right now if you get a reset email you did not request

    So, what should you do if one of these password reset emails lands in your inbox? Take a breath first. Then do this.

    1) Do not click the button in the email and use strong antivirus software 

    Even if the message looks real, treat it like a hot surface. If you want to change your password, do it from the Instagram app or by typing Instagram’s address into your browser yourself. Strong antivirus software adds another layer of protection here. It can help block malicious links, fake login pages and follow-up scams that often appear during a reset email surge.

    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 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.

    2) Check your Instagram security activity in the app

    Open Instagram and look for signs someone tried to log in:

    • Unknown devices
    • Login alerts you do not recognize
    • Changes to email, phone number or linked accounts

    If anything looks off, remove the device and update your credentials.

    3) Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) and keep it on

    Two-factor authentication (2FA) is the biggest roadblock for account takeover. Even if someone knows your password, they still need your code to get in from an unfamiliar device. Instagram has pushed 2FA heavily for higher-risk accounts and urges users to enable it. Use an authenticator app if you can. It is often safer than SMS.

    4) Change your password if you feel unsure

    If you suspect someone guessed your password, or you reused it elsewhere, change it. Make it long and unique. A password manager can help you generate and store strong passwords without reusing them. Then update the password on your email account too. Your email inbox controls most password resets, so make sure it also uses a strong, unique password.

    Next, see if your email has been exposed in past breaches. Our #1 password manager (see Cyberguy.com/Passwords) pick includes a built-in breach scanner that checks whether your email address or passwords have appeared in known leaks. If you discover a match, immediately change any reused passwords and secure those accounts with new, unique credentials.

    Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2026 at Cyberguy.com.

    5) Use a data removal service to reduce targeting

    Password reset surges often follow data leaks. When your email address and personal details appear on data broker sites, attackers can target you more easily. A data removal service helps limit where your information shows up online. By shrinking your digital footprint, you reduce the chances of being singled out during large-scale reset email 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 and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com.

    Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: Cyberguy.com.

    Someone with a hoodie types suspiciously on a laptop that displays a dark screen.

    The safest response is to avoid email links, open the Instagram app directly and review login activity and security settings instead. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    6) Watch for follow-up scams

    After a reset surge, criminals often switch tactics. Next, you may see:

    • Fake “Instagram Support” emails
    • DMs claiming your account will be deleted
    • Login approval prompts you did not trigger

    Slow down and verify everything inside the app.

    Kurt’s key takeaways

    A spike in Instagram password reset emails feels scary because it looks like someone is already inside your account. Often, they are not. Still, the surge is a reminder to tighten your basics. Use the app to check security. Turn on two-factor authentication. Change the passwords you reused. Most importantly, do not let an unexpected email rush you into the one click that hands over access.

    Have you received an unexpected Instagram password reset email recently, and how did you handle it? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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    Copyright 2026 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.

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  • 10 ways to protect seniors from email scams

    Cyber expert shares tips to avoid AI phishing scams

    Kurt ‘The CyberGuy’ Knutsson shares practical ways to avoid falling victim to AI-generated phishing scams and discusses a report that North Korean agents are posing as I.T. workers to funnel money into the country’s nuclear program.

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    Email scams have become one of the fastest ways scammers steal money from older adults. A single click can expose bank accounts, personal data and retirement savings built over a lifetime. That growing risk is what prompted Bob to write to us with a question many families are now facing:

    “My friend’s father is 95 and absolutely lives through his phone/laptop. He refuses to give up either and often clicks on email links. A few years ago, he got caught up in a gift card scam that almost cost him his life savings. It’s not taking away the car keys anymore; it is taking away the email and access to online banking! What do you recommend that his daughter do to protect his online presence?”

    Bob is right. For many seniors, email and online banking have replaced car keys as the most dangerous access point. The goal is not to take devices away. It is to quietly put guardrails in place so one bad click does not turn into a financial disaster.

    Here is a practical plan families can actually use.

    HACKERS ABUSE GOOGLE CLOUD TO SEND TRUSTED PHISHING EMAILS

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     1) Separate money from daily email use

    Start by limiting how much damage a single click can cause. If possible, remove online banking access from the devices used for email. When that is not realistic, open a second checking account with only everyday spending money and link it to a debit card for routine purchases.

    Keep primary savings accounts offline or set to view-only access. If available, require in-branch or phone verification for transfers above a set amount. This way, even if credentials are compromised, the largest accounts remain protected. 

    2) Lock down email to stop scams targeting seniors

    Email is the number one entry point for scams targeting seniors. Strong filtering matters. Use an email provider with advanced spam protection, such as Gmail or Outlook.com. In the email settings:

    • Turn off automatic image loading
    • Disable link previews
    • Block or auto-quarantine attachments from unknown senders
    • Automatically move messages from unknown senders to a Review folder

    If available, enable warnings for emails that use familiar display names but come from unfamiliar addresses. This helps stop impersonation scams that pretend to be family, banks or service providers. These steps slow scammers down and reduce impulse clicks before damage happens.

    Email is dominant, but voicemail and callback scams are also growing fast among seniors, often as a follow-up to phishing emails. If possible, silence unknown callers and block voicemail-to-email transcription for unfamiliar numbers, since many scams now start with urgent callback messages rather than links.

    Email scams often start with messages that look routine but hide urgent threats designed to trigger quick clicks. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    3) Add a trusted second set of eyes

    Next, add safety nets that notify family members when something looks wrong. Enable banking alerts for large withdrawals, new payees, password changes, unusual logins and new device sign-ins. Add his daughter as a trusted contact wherever the bank allows it. If available, enable delays or approval requirements for first-time transfers to new payees. This creates a cooling period that can stop scam-driven transactions. For email accounts, set up a recovery contact so that his daughter is notified immediately if someone attempts to access or reset the account.

    Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on email and banking accounts, but pair it with device and transfer alerts, since many scams now succeed even when 2FA is enabled.

    4) Harden devices so clicks do not equal catastrophe

    Devices should be set up to fail safely. Keep operating systems and browsers updated. Make sure the laptop uses a standard user account instead of an administrator account. This prevents software from installing without approval. Install real-time protection that blocks scam sites before they load. Strong antivirus software helps block malicious links and fake login pages automatically.

    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 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.

    5) Use a password manager to block fake logins

    Password reuse makes scams far more dangerous. Fake pop-ups and lookalike websites are designed to trick people into typing usernames and passwords by hand. A password manager removes that risk by storing credentials securely and autofilling them only on legitimate websites. If a page is fake or malicious, the password manager will not fill anything. That simple refusal often prevents account takeovers before they start. Password managers also reduce frustration by eliminating the need to remember or reuse passwords across email, banking and shopping accounts. When set up correctly, this protection works quietly in the background on both phones and laptops.

    Many phishing scams no longer rely on obvious fake emails. They rely on realistic login pages. Autofill protection is one of the most effective ways to stop these attacks without changing daily habits.

    Next, see if your email has been exposed in past breaches. Our No. 1 password manager pick includes a built-in breach scanner that checks whether your email address or passwords have appeared in known leaks. If you discover a match, immediately change any reused passwords and secure those accounts with new, unique credentials.

    Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2026 at Cyberguy.com.

    MALICIOUS CHROME EXTENSIONS CAUGHT STEALING SENSITIVE DATA

    6) Freeze credit and monitor identity exposure

    If scammers already have personal information, prevention alone is not enough. Freeze credit with Experian, TransUnion and Equifax to prevent new accounts from being opened. Also, place freezes with ChexSystems and the National Consumer Telecom and Utilities Exchange to stop criminals from opening bank accounts, phone lines, or utility services in his name.

    If possible, request an IRS Identity Protection PIN to prevent tax-related identity theft.

    Add ongoing identity monitoring so suspicious activity triggers alerts quickly. Identity Theft companies can monitor personal information like your Social Security number (SSN), 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 at Cyberguy.com.

    7) Set clear rules around scams and payments

    Technology helps, but expectations matter. Have one calm conversation and agree on simple rules:

    • No gift cards for urgent emails or texts
    • No sending money through unfamiliar apps or cryptocurrency
    • Always call a trusted family member before acting on urgency

    Post these rules near the computer or phone. Visual reminders reduce panic decisions. Also, before setting rules, choose one primary trusted contact. Multiple helpers can slow response during urgent scams and create confusion when fast decisions matter. That person should be the default call for anything urgent involving money, account access, or unexpected requests.

    Old man and adult look at a computer

    Adult children increasingly step in to help parents spot red flags before a simple mistake turns into a financial loss. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    8) Reduce exposure with a data removal service

    Scammers often find seniors by pulling personal details from public data broker websites. These sites publish phone numbers, addresses, relatives and age information that make targeting easier. A data removal service works behind the scenes to opt seniors out of these databases and reduce how much personal information is publicly available online. Fewer exposed details means fewer scam calls, fewer phishing emails and fewer impersonation attempts. This step does not stop every scam, but it significantly lowers how often seniors are targeted in the first place.

    Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com.

    Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: Cyberguy.com.

    9) Use senior-friendly monitoring tools the right way

    Many tools designed for child safety also work well for seniors when used thoughtfully. When configured correctly, they add protection without interfering with daily routines.

    Below are device-specific steps families can use today.

    iPhone and iPad

    Apple’s built-in Screen Time tools provide strong protection without installing extra apps.

    What to set up:

    • Open Settings and tap Screen Time
    • Turn on Screen Time for the device
    • Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions and turn it on
    • Under App Store Purchases, set app installs to Don’t Allow
    • Tap Web Content and limit access to approved or safe websites
    • Set a Screen Time passcode known only to the caregiver

    If the caregiver wants remote visibility or control, add the device to Family Sharing and manage Screen Time from the caregiver’s Apple ID.

    BROWSER EXTENSION MALWARE INFECTED 8.8M USERS IN DARKSPECTRE ATTACK

    Why this helps: It blocks many scam sites, prevents accidental app installs and stops fake update prompts from causing damage.

    Android phones and tablets

    Android offers built-in protections and optional supervised controls.

    What to set up:

    Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer

    • Open Settings and go to Digital Wellbeing & parental controls
    • Turn on parental controls for the device
    • Restrict app installs and require approval for new downloads
    • Enable Safe Browsing and website filtering
    • Turn on alerts for new app installs and account changes

    For families who want shared oversight, Google Family Link can be used to supervise app installs and receive alerts, as long as both parties agree.

    Why this helps: Many Android scams rely on fake app installs. These settings block that path.

    Windows computers

    Windows protection works best when user accounts are set correctly.

    What to set up:

    • Create a standard user account for daily use
    • Keep the caregiver account as the only administrator
    • Turn on Microsoft Family Safety if available
    • Enable SmartScreen and browser phishing protection
    • Block software installs without administrator approval

    Why this helps: Malware often installs silently on admin accounts. This setup prevents that.

    Mac computers

    macOS includes built-in controls similar to those on iPhone and iPad.

    What to set up:

    • Create a standard user account for the senior
    • Limit administrator access to a trusted caregiver
    • Open System Settings and enable Screen Time
    • Restrict app installs and system changes
    • Keep built-in malware and phishing protections enabled
    Two people look at a computer together

    Simple digital guardrails can reduce risk while allowing seniors to keep their devices and independence. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    Why this helps: It prevents fake software updates and malicious downloads from installing.

    10) Best practices for all devices

    • Use alert-only or limited-control settings whenever possible
    • Review settings together so expectations are clear
    • Avoid tools that feel invasive or confusing
    • Focus on blocking harm, not monitoring behavior

    This is not about spying. It is about adding digital seatbelts while preserving independence. When used respectfully, these tools reduce risk without changing daily habits.

    Pro Tip: Use a secure email service for added privacy

    For families looking to go a step further, switching to a secure email service can significantly reduce scam exposure. Privacy-focused email providers are designed to limit tracking, block hidden tracking pixels, and reduce how much data advertisers or scammers can collect from inbox activity. Many secure email services also offer disposable or alias email addresses for one-time signups. If an alias starts receiving spam or scam messages, it can be disabled without affecting the main email account. This makes it easier to keep a primary email address private and limit long-term exposure. Secure email platforms typically include features like encrypted messages, no advertising and stronger privacy controls. While switching email providers is optional, it can be a useful upgrade for seniors who receive large volumes of spam or have been repeatedly targeted by scams.

    Why it matters: Less tracking means fewer scam attempts. Aliases reduce how often personal email addresses are exposed, without changing daily habits.

    For recommendations on private and secure email providers that offer alias addresses, visit Cyberguy.com.

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    Kurt’s key takeaways

    Protecting seniors online is not about control. It is about prevention. Email scams are designed to exploit trust and urgency, especially in people who did not grow up with digital threats. Smart guardrails protect independence while preventing irreversible mistakes. If email and banking are today’s car keys, families need modern safety features to go with them.

    If your parent clicked a scam email right now, would you know before the money was gone? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

    Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
    Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide – free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter.

    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.

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  • Fake error popups are spreading malware fast

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    A dangerous cybercrime tool has surfaced in underground forums, making it far easier for attackers to spread malware. 

    Instead of relying on hidden downloads, this tool pushes fake error messages that pressure you into fixing problems that never existed. Security researchers say this method is spreading quickly because it feels legitimate. The page looks broken. The warning feels urgent. The fix sounds simple. 

    That combination is proving alarmingly effective for cybercriminals.

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    How fake error malware attacks actually work

    These attacks begin with a compromised website. When a visitor lands on the page, something looks wrong right away. Text appears broken. Fonts look scrambled. Visual elements seem corrupted. A pop-up then appears claiming the issue can be fixed with a browser update or a missing system font. A button offers to repair the problem instantly. 

    Clicking that button copies a command to the clipboard and displays instructions to paste it into PowerShell or a system terminal. That single step launches the infection.

    MALICIOUS CHROME EXTENSIONS CAUGHT STEALING SENSITIVE DATA

    Fake error popups make a website look broken by scrambling text or fonts to create urgency and panic. (Jens Büttner/picture alliance via Getty Images)

    Why this new tool changes the threat landscape

    The tool behind these attacks is called ErrTraffic. It automates the entire process and removes the technical barriers that once limited cybercrime operations. For about $800, attackers get a full package with a control panel and scripted payload delivery. Analysts at the Hudson Rock Threat Intelligence Team identified the tool after tracking its promotion on Russian-language forums in early December 2025. 

    ErrTraffic works through a simple JavaScript injection. A single line of code connects a hacked site to the attacker’s dashboard. From there, everything adapts automatically. The script detects the operating system and browser. It then displays a customized fake error message in the correct language. The attack works across Windows, Android, macOS and Linux.

    MOST PARKED DOMAINS NOW PUSH SCAMS AND MALWARE

    Teen using their laptop.

    The popups often claim a browser update or missing system font is needed to fix the problem. (Daniel Acker/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

    Why security software struggles to stop it

    Traditional malware defenses look for suspicious downloads or unauthorized installations. ErrTraffic avoids both. Browsers see normal text copying. Security tools see a legitimate system utility being opened manually. Nothing appears out of place. That design allows the attack to slip through protections that would normally stop malware in its tracks.

    The success rate is deeply concerning

    Data pulled from active ErrTraffic campaigns shows conversion rates approaching 60%. That means more than half of the visitors who see the fake error message follow the instructions and install malware. Once active, the tool can deliver infostealers like Lumma or Vidar on Windows devices. Android targets often receive banking trojans instead. The control panel even includes geographic filtering, with built-in blocks for Russia and neighboring regions to avoid drawing attention from local authorities.

    What happens after infection?

    Once malware is installed, credentials and session data are stolen. Those compromised logins are then used to breach additional websites. Each newly hacked site becomes another delivery vehicle for the same attack. That cycle allows the campaign to grow without direct involvement from the original operator.

    FAKE WINDOWS UPDATE PUSHES MALWARE IN NEW CLICKFIX ATTACK

    Man looks distressed while at his computer

    Following the on-screen instructions can quietly trigger malware that steals passwords and personal data. (Kurt Knutsson)

    Ways to stay safe from fake error malware

    A few smart habits can significantly reduce risk when facing fake error pop-ups and browser-based traps.

    1) Never run commands suggested by a website

    Legitimate websites never ask you to copy and paste commands into PowerShell or a system terminal. Fake error malware relies on convincing messages that pressure you into doing exactly that. If a page instructs you to run code to fix a problem, close it immediately.

    2) Close pages that claim your system is corrupted

    Fake error campaigns often use broken text, scrambled fonts or warnings about missing files to grab attention. As a result, these visuals create urgency and trigger fear. In reality, a real system problem never announces itself through a random website, so close the page right away.

    3) Install updates only through official system settings

    Real browser and operating system updates come from built-in update tools, not pop-ups on websites. If an update is needed, your device will notify you directly through system settings or trusted app stores.

    4) Install strong antivirus software on every device

    Strong antivirus software can help block malicious scripts, detect infostealers and stop suspicious behavior before damage spreads. This is especially important since fake error malware targets Windows, Android, macOS and Linux systems.

    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 at Cyberguy.com.

    5) Use a data removal service to reduce exposure

    Stolen credentials fuel the spread of fake error malware. Removing personal information from data broker sites can reduce the impact if login details are compromised and limit how far an attack can spread.

    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 and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com.

    Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: Cyberguy.com.

    6) Treat font and browser update pop-ups with suspicion

    Claims about missing fonts or outdated browsers are a hallmark of these attacks. Modern systems manage fonts automatically, and browsers update themselves. A webpage has no reason to request manual fixes.

    If a real update is needed, the operating system will request it directly. A random webpage never should.

    Kurt’s key takeaways 

    Fake error malware works because it plays on a very human reaction. When something on a screen suddenly looks broken, most people want to fix it fast and move on. That split-second decision is exactly what attackers are counting on. Tools like ErrTraffic show how polished these scams have become. The messages look professional. The instructions feel routine. Nothing about the moment screams danger. But behind the scenes, one click can quietly hand over passwords, banking access and personal data. The good news is that slowing down makes a real difference. Closing a suspicious page and trusting built-in system updates can stop these attacks cold. When it comes to pop-ups claiming your device is broken, walking away is often the smartest fix.

    Have you ever seen a pop-up or error message that made you stop and wonder if it was real? Tell us what it looked like and how you handled it by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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    Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report 
    Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide – free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter. 

    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.

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  • Browser extension malware infected 8.8M users in DarkSpectre attack

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    Browser extensions promise convenience. Many offer simple tools like new tab pages, translators or video helpers. 

    Researchers, however, uncovered a long-running malware operation that abused that trust on a massive scale. Koi Security analysts identified the threat while analyzing suspicious infrastructure tied to a campaign known as ShadyPanda. What started as one investigation quickly revealed something far larger.

    The group behind it is now known as DarkSpectre. According to Koi researchers, it infected more than 8.8 million users across Chrome, Edge and Firefox over seven years. This was not a smash-and-grab attack. It was slow, deliberate and highly organized. Instead of rushing malicious code into marketplaces, the group played the long game.

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    MALICIOUS CHROME EXTENSIONS CAUGHT STEALING SENSITIVE DATA

    Security researchers say millions of users unknowingly installed browser extensions that later turned malicious after years of appearing legitimate. (Donato Fasano/Getty Images)

    One threat actor behind three major campaigns

    At first, the activity looked like separate threats. That changed once Koi analysts followed the infrastructure breadcrumbs. By pivoting from domains linked to ShadyPanda, Koi researchers uncovered shared systems powering multiple extension clusters. That analysis confirmed that ShadyPanda, GhostPoster and Zoom Stealer were not separate actors. They were one coordinated operation. Together, these campaigns targeted both everyday users and corporate environments.

    ShadyPanda

    This campaign focused on mass surveillance and affiliate fraud. Researchers estimate it affected more than 4 million users, with some analyses suggesting the total could reach up to 5.6 million as additional related extensions were linked. In several cases, extensions remained legitimate for more than five years before quietly turning malicious.

    GhostPoster

    This campaign used a clever trick. It hid malicious code inside image files to bypass security checks. It impacted 1.05 million users.

    Zoom Stealer

    This operation targeted corporate meeting data across more than 28 conferencing platforms. It affected 2.2 million users.

    Different goals. Same operator.

    How Koi uncovered DarkSpectre’s hidden network

    The breakthrough came when Koi analysts examined two domains tied to ShadyPanda. Those domains powered legitimate extension features like weather widgets and new tab pages. They were not command servers. That was the trick. Those same clean domains appeared again and again across other extensions that quietly connected to entirely different malicious infrastructure.

    One domain led to extensions. Those extensions exposed new domains. Those domains were connected to even more extensions. Following that chain allowed Koi to uncover over 100 connected extensions across multiple browser marketplaces. Some extensions even reused infrastructure already flagged in earlier investigations. That overlap confirmed DarkSpectre was operating at a nation-state scale.

    How DarkSpectre stayed hidden for years

    DarkSpectre succeeded by blending legitimate functionality with hidden malware. Users got what they expected. Meanwhile, the threat ran quietly in the background.

    Time-delayed activation fooled reviewers

    Some extensions waited days before activating malicious behavior. Others triggered malware on only a small percentage of page loads. This made detection during marketplace reviews extremely difficult.

    Malicious code disguised as images

    The group hid JavaScript inside PNG image files. The extension loaded its own logo, extracted the hidden code and executed it silently.

    No updates required

    Instead of pushing new extension versions, DarkSpectre controlled everything from its servers. Operators could change behavior anytime without alerting users or marketplaces. Koi researchers noted this approach gave the attackers long-term flexibility and control.

    Why the Zoom Stealer campaign stands out

    Most malware focuses on consumer fraud. Zoom Stealer focused on intelligence.

    According to Koi analysts, these extensions collected the following:

    • Meeting links with embedded passwords
    • Meeting IDs, topics and schedules
    • Speaker names, titles, bios and photos
    • Company affiliations and branding

    Worse yet, the data streamed in real time. The moment a user joined or viewed a meeting, the information flowed out. This type of data enables phishing impersonation and corporate espionage at scale.

    Why browser extensions remain a weak link

    Extension marketplaces typically evaluate code only at submission or update. Koi’s investigation shows how attackers exploit that model. Once an extension earns trust badges and positive reviews, users stop questioning it. That trust becomes a weapon. A clean extension today can become a threat tomorrow.

    Ways to stay safe from malicious browser extensions

    You do not need to avoid extensions entirely. You do need to stay cautious.

    1)  Keep your browser up-to-date

    Make sure you turn on automatic updates for your browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Edge) so you’re always running the latest version without thinking about it. 

    2) Review your installed extensions

    Remove anything you no longer use. Fewer extensions reduce risk. CyberGuy has step-by-step guides showing how to review and remove browser extensions safely, making it easy to clean up your browser in just a few minutes. In Chrome, Edge and Firefox, open the menu, go to Extensions or Add-ons, and remove anything you do not use or trust.

    3) Install extensions only from trusted sources

    Official browser stores like the Chrome Web Store have rules and scans to catch bad actors. They’re not perfect, but they are still a better option when compared to a random website on the internet. Extensions from unknown websites or third-party downloads are far more likely to hide malware or spyware. 

    FAKE AI CHAT RESULTS ARE SPREADING DANGEROUS MAC MALWARE

    Hacker on their laptop.

    A long-running malware operation quietly abused trusted browser extensions across Chrome, Edge and Firefox, infecting millions worldwide. (Morteza Nikoubazl/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

    4) Have strong antivirus software

    Strong antivirus software can warn you before you install malicious software, such as sketchy browser extensions. It can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, helping keep your personal information and digital assets safe.

    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 at Cyberguy.com.

    5) Invest in personal data removal services

    If your personal data was exposed in this security incident, it’s crucial to act quickly to reduce your risk of identity theft and scams. A data removal service can help you remove all this personal information from the internet. 

    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 and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com.

    Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: Cyberguy.com.

    6) Be skeptical of extensions requesting unnecessary access

    Some extensions overreach on purpose. A calculator tool asking for your browsing history or a weather app wanting your login data is a huge red flag. Before installing, ask: “Does this permission match the extension’s job?” If the answer’s no, don’t install it. Watch out for broad permissions like “Read and change all your data on websites you visit” unless it’s clearly justified (e.g., a password manager). If an update suddenly adds new permission requests, dig into why. It might mean the extension’s been sold or hacked.

    7) Change your passwords — and do it safely

    If you’ve ever saved passwords in your browser (e.g., via the browser’s built-in password manager or the “Save Password” prompt), those credentials could be at risk if a malicious extension was installed. These built-in managers store passwords locally or in your Google, Microsoft or Firefox account, and a compromised browser can give bad actors a way in.

    This doesn’t typically apply to dedicated password manager extensions, which encrypt your data independently and don’t rely on browser storage. However, if you’re unsure whether an extension has been compromised, it’s always smart to update your master password and enable two-factor authentication. 

    For maximum safety, change your most important passwords (email, bank, shopping, cloud services) from a different, secure device, such as your phone or another computer where the questionable extension was never installed. Avoid using the same browser that may have been exposed. Then, consider switching to a password manager to create and store strong, unique logins going forward. 

    Next, see if your email has been exposed in past breaches. Our No. 1 password manager pick includes a built-in breach scanner that checks whether your email address or passwords have appeared in known leaks. If you discover a match, immediately change any reused passwords and secure those accounts with new, unique credentials.

    Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 at Cyberguy.com.

     10 SIMPLE CYBERSECURITY RESOLUTIONS FOR A SAFER 2026

    Hackers typing on a laptop.

    Analysts uncovered a coordinated campaign that hid spyware inside everyday browser tools like new tab pages and translators. (Morteza Nikoubazl/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

    8) Watch for behavior changes

    Subtle changes often appear before obvious damage. Sudden redirects, new tabs opening on their own, unfamiliar search results, popups, slower browsing or websites asking you to re-log in unexpectedly can all signal a malicious or compromised extension. Pay attention if ads appear where they never did before or if your browser settings change without your input.

    Koi’s investigation shows how attackers rely on patience. Once an extension earns trust and sits quietly for years, users stop watching it. That makes small behavior changes easy to miss. If something feels off, do not ignore it. Disable extensions one by one to identify the culprit. If the issue disappears, remove that extension permanently.

    When in doubt, trust your instincts. Browsers should not surprise you.

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    Kurt’s key takeaways

    DarkSpectre is a reminder that online threats are getting smarter and quieter. This was not a smash-and-grab attack. It unfolded slowly, over years, and relied on trust most people never think twice about. Koi analysts connected the dots by tracking shared infrastructure across campaigns, but they also warn that some sleeper extensions may still be installed and trusted today. Browser extensions can be helpful, but every extra add-on is another door into your browser. Paying attention, cleaning house now and then, and questioning what you install can make a real difference.

    When was the last time you checked what your browser extensions are really doing behind the scenes? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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    Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

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

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  • Malicious Chrome extensions caught stealing sensitive data

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    Chrome extensions are supposed to make your browser more useful, but they’ve quietly become one of the easiest ways for attackers to spy on what you do online. Security researchers recently uncovered two Chrome extensions that have been doing exactly that for years.

    These extensions looked like harmless proxy tools, but behind the scenes, they were hijacking traffic and stealing sensitive data from users who trusted them. What makes this case worse is where these extensions were found. Both were listed on Chrome’s official extension marketplace.

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    FAKE AI CHAT RESULTS ARE SPREADING DANGEROUS MAC MALWARE

    Security researchers uncovered malicious Chrome extensions that quietly routed users’ web traffic through attacker-controlled servers to steal sensitive data. (Gokhan Balci/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images)

    Malicious Chrome extensions hiding in plain sight

    Researchers at Socket discovered two Chrome extensions using the same name, “Phantom Shuttle,” that were posing as tools for proxy routing and network speed testing (via Bleeping Computer). According to the researchers, the extensions have been active since at least 2017.

    Both extensions were published under the same developer name and marketed towards foreign trade workers who need to test internet connectivity from different regions. They were sold as subscription-based tools, with prices ranging from roughly $1.40 to $13.60.

    At a glance, everything looked normal. The descriptions matched the functionality. The pricing seemed reasonable. The problem was what the extensions were doing after installation.

    How Phantom Shuttle steals your data

    Socket researchers say Phantom Shuttle routes all your web traffic through proxy servers controlled by the attacker. Those proxies use hardcoded credentials embedded directly into the extension’s code. To avoid detection, the malicious logic is hidden inside what appears to be a legitimate jQuery library.

    The attackers didn’t just leave credentials sitting in plain text. The extensions hide them using a custom character-index encoding scheme. Once active, the extension listens to web traffic and intercepts HTTP authentication challenges on any site you visit.

    To make sure traffic always flows through their infrastructure, the extensions dynamically reconfigure Chrome’s proxy settings using an auto-configuration script. This forces your browser to route requests exactly where the attacker wants them.

    In its default “smarty” mode, Phantom Shuttle routes traffic from more than 170 high-value domains through its proxy network. That list includes developer platforms, cloud service dashboards, social media sites and adult content portals. Local networks and the attacker’s own command-and-control domain are excluded, likely to avoid breaking things or raising suspicion.

    While acting as a man-in-the-middle, the extension can capture anything you submit through web forms. That includes usernames, passwords, card details, personal information, session cookies from HTTP headers and API tokens pulled directly from network requests.

    CyberGuy contacted Google about the extensions, and a spokesperson confirmed that both have been removed from the Chrome Web Store.

    10 SIMPLE CYBERSECURITY RESOLUTIONS FOR A SAFER 2026

    A person typing on their computer.

    Two Chrome extensions posing as proxy tools were found spying on users for years while listed on Google’s official Chrome Web Store. (Yui Mok/PA Images via Getty Images)

    How to review the extensions installed in your browser (Chrome)

    The step-by-step instructions below apply to Windows PCs, Macs and Chromebooks. In other words, desktop Chrome. Chrome extensions cannot be fully reviewed or removed from the mobile app.

    Step 1: Open your extensions list

    • Open Chrome on your computer.
    • Click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
    • Select Extensions
    • Then click Manage Extensions.

    You can also type this directly into the address bar and press Enter:
    chrome://extensions

    Step 2: Look for anything you do not recognize

    Go through every extension listed and ask yourself:

    • Do I remember installing this?
    • Do I still use it?
    • Do I know what it actually does?

    If the answer is no to any of these, take a closer look.

    Step 3: Review permissions and access

    Click Details on any extension you are unsure about. Pay attention to:

    • Permissions, especially anything that can read or change data on websites you visit
    • Site access, such as extensions that run on all sites
    • Background access, which allows the extension to stay active even when not in use

    Proxy tools, VPNs, downloaders and network-related extensions deserve extra scrutiny.

    Step 4: Disable suspicious extensions first

    If something feels off, toggle the extension off. This immediately stops it from running without deleting it. If everything still works as expected, the extension was likely not essential.

    Step 5: Remove extensions you no longer need

    To fully remove an extension:

    • Click Remove
    • Confirm when prompted

    Unused extensions are a common target for abuse and should be cleaned out regularly.

    Step 6: Restart Chrome

    Close and reopen Chrome after making changes. This ensures disabled or removed extensions are no longer active.

    MICROSOFT TYPOSQUATTING SCAM SWAPS LETTERS TO STEAL LOGINS

    Google Chrome screen on a laptop.

    Cybersecurity experts warn that trusted browser extensions can become powerful surveillance tools once installed. (Gabby Jones/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

    6 steps you can take to stay safe from malicious Chrome extensions

    You can’t control what slips through app store reviews, but you can reduce your risk by changing how you install and manage extensions.

    1) Install extensions only when absolutely necessary

    Every extension increases your attack surface. If you don’t genuinely need it, don’t install it. Convenience extensions often come with far more permissions than they deserve.

    2) Check the publisher carefully

    Reputable developers usually have a history, a website and multiple well-known extensions. Be cautious with tools from unknown publishers, especially those offering network or proxy features.

    3) Read multiple user reviews, not just ratings

    Star ratings can be faked or manipulated. Look for detailed reviews that mention long-term use. Watch out for sudden waves of generic praise.

    4) Review permissions before clicking install

    If an extension asks to “read and change all data on websites you visit,” take that seriously. Proxy tools and network extensions can see everything you do.

    5) Use a password manager

    A password manager won’t stop a malicious extension from spying on traffic, but it can limit damage. Unique passwords mean stolen credentials can’t unlock multiple accounts. Many managers also refuse to autofill on suspicious pages.

    Next, see if your email has been exposed in past breaches. Our #1 password manager (see Cyberguy.com/Passwords) pick includes a built-in breach scanner that checks whether your email address or passwords have appeared in known leaks. If you discover a match, immediately change any reused passwords and secure those accounts with new, unique credentials.

    Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 at Cyberguy.com.

    6) Install strong antivirus software

    Strong antivirus software can flag suspicious network activity, proxy abuse and unauthorized changes to browser settings. This adds a layer of defense beyond Chrome’s own protections.

    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 at Cyberguy.com.

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    Kurt’s key takeaway

    This attack doesn’t rely on phishing emails or fake websites. It works because the extension itself becomes part of your browser. Once installed, it sees nearly everything you do online. Extensions like Phantom Shuttle are dangerous because they blend real functionality with malicious behavior. The extensions deliver the proxy service they promise, which lowers suspicion, while quietly routing user data through attacker-controlled servers.

    When was the last time you reviewed the extensions installed in your browser? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.
     

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    Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

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

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  • Crypto Users Lose Far Less To Phishing As Losses Drop 83% – Details

    Crypto phishing losses plunged in 2025, but experts warn the threat has only changed shape rather than disappeared. Reports show a sharp fall in money stolen by wallet-draining scams, even as attackers tested new tricks tied to recent protocol changes.

    Related Reading

    Scam Sniffer Data Shows Drop

    According to Scam Sniffer’s 2025 analysis, wallet drainer phishing losses fell to about $83.85 million — an 83% decline from roughly $494 million in 2024.

    The number of affected wallets dropped to around 106,000, a fall of about 68% year-on-year. These figures come from the security platform’s annual study and were picked up by major crypto outlets.

    Attackers Shift, Not Stop

    Only 11 incidents topped $1 million in 2025, down from 30 the prior year, signaling fewer headline grabs but a rise in smaller hits. The largest single theft recorded last year was roughly $6.5 million, tied to a malicious Permit signature attack.

    Average losses per victim fell to roughly $790, which suggests attackers moved toward more frequent, lower-value strikes.

    Source: Scam Sniffer

    Market Moves Mattered

    Losses followed market activity. The third quarter logged the highest damage at about $31 million, when Ethereum’s rally brought more users and approvals onchain.

    Monthly peaks included August, which posted about $12.17 million, while December was the quietest with roughly $2 million. That pattern shows fraudsters target busy trading windows.

    Source: Scam Sniffer

    Permit Signatures And New Vectors

    Reports highlighted Permit and Permit2 signature abuses as a major driver of big losses, accounting for a large share of multi-million cases.

    Scam Sniffer also flagged EIP-7702 batch signature techniques that were used in a few complex attacks after network upgrades. Security teams say these methods exploit user approval flows rather than raw smart-contract bugs.

    Total crypto market cap currently at $3.08 trillion. Chart: TradingView

    Why The Drop Happened

    Analysts attribute much of the improvement to better wallet warnings, wider use of approval revocation tools, and more active tracking by onchain monitors.

    Some defenders also point to reduced market froth in parts of the year, which lowered the pool of high-value targets. Still, multiple outlets stress that reduced totals do not equal safety.

    Related Reading

    Based on reports, phishing will likely remain cyclical: losses could spike again during big rallies or when new signing features are introduced.

    Security firms urge users to check approvals, avoid blind signing, and use wallet tools that flag risky requests. Regulators and exchanges are watching the trend, but responsibility for many attacks still falls to individual users and wallet software.

    Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView

    Christian Encila

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  • OpenAI admits AI browsers face unsolvable prompt attacks

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    Cybercriminals don’t always need malware or exploits to break into systems anymore. Sometimes, they just need the right words in the right place. OpenAI is now openly acknowledging that reality. The company says prompt injection attacks against artificial intelligence (AI)-powered browsers are not a bug that can be fully patched, but a long-term risk that comes with letting AI agents roam the open web. This raises uncomfortable questions about how safe these tools really are, especially as they gain more autonomy and access to your data.

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    NEW MALWARE CAN READ YOUR CHATS AND STEAL YOUR MONEY

    AI-powered browsers can read and act on web content, which also makes them vulnerable to hidden instructions attackers can slip into pages or documents. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    Why prompt injection isn’t going away

    In a recent blog post, OpenAI admitted that prompt injection attacks are unlikely to ever be completely eliminated. Prompt injection works by hiding instructions inside web pages, documents or emails in ways that humans don’t notice, but AI agents do. Once the AI reads that content, it can be tricked into following malicious instructions.

    OpenAI compared this problem to scams and social engineering. You can reduce them, but you can’t make them disappear. The company also acknowledged that “agent mode” in its ChatGPT Atlas browser increases risk because it expands the attack surface. The more an AI can do on your behalf, the more damage it can cause when something goes wrong.

    OpenAI launched the ChatGPT Atlas browser in October, and security researchers immediately started testing its limits. Within hours, demos appeared showing that a few carefully placed words inside a Google Doc could influence how the browser behaved. That same day, Brave published its own warning, explaining that indirect prompt injection is a structural problem for AI-powered browsers, including tools like Perplexity’s Comet.

    This isn’t just OpenAI’s problem. Earlier this month, the National Cyber Security Centre in the U.K. warned that prompt injection attacks against generative AI systems may never be fully mitigated.

    FAKE AI CHAT RESULTS ARE SPREADING DANGEROUS MAC MALWARE

    ChatGPT Atlas screen in an auditorium

    Prompt injection attacks exploit trust at scale, allowing malicious instructions to influence what an AI agent does without the user ever seeing it. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    The risk trade-off with AI browsers

    OpenAI says it views prompt injection as a long-term security challenge that requires constant pressure, not a one-time fix. Its approach relies on faster patch cycles, continuous testing and layered defenses. That puts it broadly in line with rivals like Anthropic and Google, which have both argued that agentic systems need architectural controls and ongoing stress testing.

    Where OpenAI is taking a different approach is with something it calls an “LLM-based automated attacker.” In simple terms, OpenAI trained an AI to act like a hacker. Using reinforcement learning, this attacker bot looks for ways to sneak malicious instructions into an AI agent’s workflow.

    The bot runs attacks in simulation first. It predicts how the target AI would reason, what steps it would take and where it might fail. Based on that feedback, it refines the attack and tries again. Because this system has insight into the AI’s internal decision-making, OpenAI believes it can surface weaknesses faster than real-world attackers.

    Even with these defenses, AI browsers aren’t safe. They combine two things attackers love: autonomy and access. Unlike regular browsers, they don’t just display information, but also read emails, scan documents, click links and take actions on your behalf. That means a single malicious prompt hidden in a webpage, document or message can influence what the AI does without you ever seeing it. Even when safeguards are in place, these agents operate by trusting content at scale, and that trust can be manipulated.

    THIRD-PARTY BREACH EXPOSES CHATGPT ACCOUNT DETAILS

    Person wearing a hoodie works on multiple computer screens displaying digital data in a dark room.

    As AI browsers gain more autonomy and access to personal data, limiting permissions and keeping human confirmation in the loop becomes critical for safety. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    7 steps you can take to reduce risk with AI browsers

    You may not be able to eliminate prompt injection attacks, but you can significantly limit their impact by changing how you use AI tools.

    1) Limit what the AI browser can access

    Only give an AI browser access to what it absolutely needs. Avoid connecting your primary email account, cloud storage or payment methods unless there’s a clear reason. The more data an AI can see, the more valuable it becomes to attackers. Limiting access reduces the blast radius if something goes wrong.

    2) Require confirmation for every sensitive action

    Never allow an AI browser to send emails, make purchases or modify account settings without asking you first. Confirmation breaks long attack chains and gives you a moment to spot suspicious behavior. Many prompt injection attacks rely on the AI acting quietly in the background without user review.

    3) Use a password manager for all accounts

    A password manager ensures every account has a unique, strong password. If an AI browser or malicious page leaks one credential, attackers can’t reuse it elsewhere. Many password managers also refuse to autofill on unfamiliar or suspicious sites, which can alert you that something isn’t right before you manually enter anything.

    Next, see if your email has been exposed in past breaches. Our #1 password manager (see Cyberguy.com) pick includes a built-in breach scanner that checks whether your email address or passwords have appeared in known leaks. If you discover a match, immediately change any reused passwords and secure those accounts with new, unique credentials.

    Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 at Cyberguy.com

    4) Run strong antivirus software on your device

    Even if an attack starts inside the browser, antivirus software can still detect suspicious scripts, unauthorized system changes or malicious network activity. Strong antivirus software focuses on behavior, not just files, which is critical when dealing with AI-driven or script-based attacks.

    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 & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com

    5) Avoid broad or open-ended instructions

    Telling an AI browser to “handle whatever is needed” gives attackers room to manipulate it through hidden prompts. Be specific about what the AI is allowed to do and what it should never do. Narrow instructions make it harder for malicious content to influence the agent.

    6) Be careful with AI summaries and automated scans

    When an AI browser scans emails, documents or web pages for you, remember that hidden instructions can live inside that content. Treat AI-generated actions as drafts or suggestions, not final decisions. Review anything the AI plans to act on before approving it.

    7) Keep your browser, AI tools and operating system updated

    Security fixes for AI browsers evolve quickly as new attack techniques emerge. Delaying updates leaves known weaknesses open longer than necessary. Turning on automatic updates ensures you get protection as soon as they’re available, even if you miss the announcement.

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    Kurt’s key takeaway

    There’s been a meteoric rise in AI browsers. We’re now seeing them from major tech companies, including OpenAI’s Atlas, The Browser Company’s Dia and Perplexity’s Comet. Even existing browsers like Chrome and Edge are pushing hard to add AI and agentic features into their current infrastructure. While these browsers can be useful, the technology is still early. It’s best not to fall for the hype and to wait for it to mature.

    Do you think AI browsers are worth the risk today, or are they moving faster than security can keep up? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com

    Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report 

    Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts, and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide — free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter. 

    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.

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  • University of Phoenix data breach hits 3.5M people

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    The University of Phoenix has confirmed a major data breach affecting nearly 3.5 million people. The incident traces back to August when attackers accessed the university’s network and quietly stole sensitive information.

    The school detected the intrusion on Nov. 21. That discovery came after the attackers listed the university on a public leak site. In early December, the university disclosed the incident, and its parent company filed an 8-K with regulators.

    The scope is large. Notification letters filed with Maine’s Attorney General show 3,489,274 individuals are impacted. Those affected include current and former students, faculty, staff and suppliers.

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    DATA BREACH EXPOSES 400K BANK CUSTOMERS’ INFO

    The University of Phoenix data breach exposed sensitive personal and financial information tied to nearly 3.5 million people. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    What happened and how attackers got in

    According to the university, hackers exploited a zero-day vulnerability in Oracle E-Business Suite. This application handles financial operations and contains highly sensitive data.

    Based on the technical details shared so far, security researchers believe the attack aligns with tactics used by the Clop ransomware gang. Clop has a long track record of stealing data through zero-day flaws rather than encrypting systems.

    The vulnerability tied to this campaign is tracked as CVE-2025-61882. Investigators say it has been abused since early August.

    What data was exposed

    The university says the attackers accessed highly sensitive personal and financial information. That includes:

    • Full names
    • Contact information
    • Dates of birth
    • Social security numbers
    • Bank account numbers
    • Routing numbers

    This type of data creates a serious risk. It can fuel identity theft, financial fraud, and targeted phishing scams.

    700CREDIT DATA BREACH EXPOSES SSNS OF 5.8M CONSUMERS

    A hacker uses a laptop in to steal data.

    Stolen University of Phoenix records could be used by criminals to launch targeted phishing and identity theft attacks.  (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    Nearly 3.5 million people impacted

    In letters sent to affected individuals, the university confirmed the breach affects 3,489,274 people. If you are a current or former student or employee, watch your mail closely.

    These notifications often arrive by postal mail, not email. The letter explains what data was exposed and includes instructions for protective services.

    We reached out to The University of Phoenix for comment, and a rep provided CyberGuy with the following statement: 

    “We recently experienced a cybersecurity incident involving the Oracle E-Business Suite software platform. Upon detecting the incident on November 21, 2025, we promptly took steps to investigate and respond with the assistance of leading third-party cybersecurity firms. We are reviewing the impacted data and will provide the required notifications to affected individuals and regulatory entities.”

    Free identity protection is now available

    The University of Phoenix is offering impacted individuals free identity protection services. These include:

    • 12 months of credit monitoring
    • Identity theft recovery assistance
    • Dark web monitoring
    • A $1 million fraud reimbursement policy

    To enroll, you must use the redemption code provided in the notification letter. Without that code, you cannot activate the service.

    This attack fits a larger Clop campaign

    The University of Phoenix breach is not an isolated case. Clop has used similar tactics in past campaigns involving GoAnywhere MFT, Accellion FTA, MOVEit Transfer, Cleo, and Gladinet CentreStack.

    Other universities have also reported Oracle EBS-related incidents. These include Harvard University and the University of Pennsylvania.

    The U.S. government is taking notice. The U.S. Department of State is now offering a reward of up to $10 million for information linking Clop’s attacks to a foreign government.

    Why colleges are prime targets

    Universities store massive amounts of personal data. Student records, financial aid files, payroll systems, and donor databases all live under one roof.

    Like healthcare organizations, colleges present a high-value target. A single breach can expose years of data tied to millions of people.

    MAKE 2026 YOUR MOST PRIVATE YEAR YET BY REMOVING BROKER DATA

    Outsmart hackers who are out to steal your identity

    Affected University of Phoenix students and staff should act quickly to monitor accounts and protect their identities. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    Steps to stay safe right now

    If you believe you may be affected, act quickly. These steps can reduce your risk.

    1) Watch for your breach notification letter

    Read it carefully. It explains what data was exposed and how to enroll in protection services.

    2) Enroll in the free identity protection

    First, use the redemption code provided. Because social security and banking data are involved, credit monitoring and recovery services matter. Even if you do not qualify for the free service, an identity theft protection service is still a smart move.

    In addition, these services actively monitor sensitive details like your social security number, phone number and email address. If your information appears on the dark web or if someone tries to open a new account, you receive an alert right away. As a result, many services also help you quickly freeze bank and credit card accounts to limit further fraud.

    See my tips and best picks on how to protect yourself from identity theft at Cyberguy.com

    3) Use a data removal service

    Because this breach exposed names, contact details and other identifiers, reducing what is publicly available about you matters. A data removal service can help remove your personal information from data broker sites, which lowers the risk of targeted phishing or fraud tied to the stolen University of Phoenix records.

    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 and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com

    Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: Cyberguy.com

    4) Monitor financial accounts daily

    Check bank statements and credit card activity for unfamiliar charges. Report anything suspicious immediately.

    5) Consider freezing your credit

    A credit freeze can stop criminals from opening new accounts in your name. It is free and reversible. To learn more about how to do this, go to Cyberguy.com and search “How to freeze your credit.” 

    6) Be alert for phishing attempts and use strong antivirus software 

    Expect more scam emails and phone calls. Criminals may reference the breach to sound legitimate.

    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 & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com

    7) Secure your devices

    Keep your operating systems and apps up to date, as attackers often exploit outdated software to gain access. In addition, enable automatic updates and review app permissions to prevent stolen personal data from being combined with device-level access and causing further harm.

    Kurt’s key takeaways

    The University of Phoenix data breach highlights a growing problem across higher education. When attackers exploit trusted enterprise software, the fallout spreads fast and wide. While free identity protection helps, long-term vigilance matters most. Staying alert can limit damage long after the headlines fade.

    If universities cannot protect this level of sensitive data, should students demand stronger cybersecurity standards before enrolling? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com

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    Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report 

    Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts, and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide — free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter. 

    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.

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  • Make 2026 your most private year yet by removing broker data

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    As you think about New Year’s resolutions, consider one that protects every part of your life in 2026: removing your personal data from the internet. Not your social media posts. Not your email subscriptions. Your personal data, the files companies quietly collect and sell without your consent.

    Most people do not realize how much of their life already circulates inside massive databases run by data brokers. These companies exist for one purpose: to collect, package and sell personal information. They do it continuously, often without your knowledge or approval, to anyone willing to pay. As 2026 begins, this is the digital cleanup that matters most.

    Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
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    10 SIMPLE CYBERSECURITY RESOLUTIONS FOR A SAFER 2026

    Data brokers quietly collect and sell personal information, creating detailed profiles that fuel scams, identity theft and privacy risks heading into 2026. (Photo by Kira Hofmann/picture alliance via Getty Images)

    What’s in your “digital file” and why it’s a problem in 2026

    Data brokers work like factories. They pull information from the apps you use, websites you visit, loyalty cards you scan, public records and even location data from your phone. Then they combine it into a shockingly detailed picture of your life, including:

    • Your full name and past addresses
    • Your phone numbers and email accounts
    • Your shopping history
    • Predicted income, political leanings, age and marital status
    • Your internet browsing habits
    • Where you go daily, down to the GPS coordinates.

    This data is packaged and sold to advertisers, insurers, political groups, background-check sites and, most worryingly, scammers. And going into 2026, the threat landscape is completely different:

    • AI-powered scams rely on data brokers: Scammers don’t guess anymore-they buy. They use broker data to tailor scams, impersonate companies you interact with and even mimic family members.
    • Deepfake phone scams are exploding: When a scammer knows your relatives’ names, phone numbers, travel dates and habits, a deepfake call becomes dangerously believable.
    • Data breaches are more frequent than ever: Your info doesn’t get leaked once; it gets leaked again and again because brokers constantly resell it.
    • The more data you leave exposed, the easier identity theft becomes: One exposed address or phone number is annoying. Hundreds of exposed data points? That’s a permanent risk until you remove them.

    If you want 2026 to be your safest year yet, the best thing you can do is reduce the amount of personal data available about you online, starting with data brokers.

    Why data brokers make it so hard to delete your information

    Technically, data brokers have to delete your data if you request it. But here’s the part they don’t advertise: They want you to give up. Some brokers hide their opt-out pages behind dozens of clicks. Others require you to fax forms, upload IDs, or repeat the request every 30–90 days because they reactivate your profile without warning. Now multiply that by 180–500+ data brokers, depending on your location. This is why most people never delete their information: it’s just too time-consuming.

    The simplest fix: automate the removals

    This is where a data removal service helps. These services automatically request the removal of your personal information from hundreds of data brokers on your behalf. That includes people-search websites, marketing databases, background-check services and similar data marketplaces. Instead of tracking down each site yourself, automation handles the process for you. Here’s what it does:

    • Identifies which brokers are storing your data
    • Sends legal removal requests for you
    • Follows up continually until your data is deleted
    • Stops brokers from relisting you
    • Keeps monitoring throughout 2026.

    For most people, that means removing your data from hundreds of databases in just a few minutes of setup. If you want a clean digital slate for 2026, this is the closest thing to hitting “erase.”

    Why the New Year is the best time to act

    You can remove your data at any time. However, early January is one of the most effective moments to do it. Here’s why.

    700CREDIT DATA BREACH EXPOSES SSNS OF 5.8M CONSUMERS

    Person typing on their computer.

    Cybersecurity experts warn that personal data circulating online makes consumers more vulnerable to AI-powered scams and deepfake fraud. (Photo by Nikolas Kokovlis/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

    1) Your data footprint is the largest after the holidays

    The holiday season creates a surge in data sharing. Retailers, loyalty programs, airlines, travel sites and apps collect huge amounts of personal information in November and December. Shoppers often share email addresses, phone numbers and location data to unlock discounts and faster checkout.

    Holiday spending continues to rise year over year. More spending means more data. As a result, your personal information spreads across more databases than at any other time of the year.

    2) Data brokers refresh profiles at the start of the year

    After the holiday rush, data brokers update and expand their profiles using newly collected information. January is when many of these companies organize, repackage and resell their datasets.

    Starting the removal process early helps limit how widely your information gets shared. Since removals can take days or even weeks, acting now reduces exposure before that data circulates further.

    3) Scams increase during tax season

    From January through April, scammers ramp up activity tied to tax season. Common threats include IRS impersonation scams, fake refund messages and W-2 fraud. Many of these attacks rely on data pulled from broker databases.

    When scammers have accurate personal details, their messages feel more convincing. Reducing your data exposure now lowers the risk. Removing your information from major data broker sites is a strong first step. It also helps to check smaller, lesser-known sites that may still list your details.

    PORNHUB HIT BY MASSIVE USER DATA LEAK EXPOSING 200 MILLION RECORDS

    Person working on their Macbook.

    Removing personal data from data broker sites can reduce exposure to scammers and help protect finances and privacy in the new year. (Photo by Phil Barker/Future Publishing via Getty Images)

    How to start 2026 with a clean data slate (3 steps)

    Using a reputable data removal service can simplify the entire process. These services automate requests to remove your personal information from data brokers, including many sites that are difficult to handle on your own.

    Step 1) Run a quick exposure check

    Start by searching for your name on Google. Look for results that show your address, date of birth, phone number, or email address. Sites that display this information often belong to data brokers or businesses that sell personal data for profit.

    Make a short list of the pages where your information appears.

    Step 2) Automate the removals

    Instead of spending weeks contacting each site manually, a data removal service can handle the work for you. You submit the links you found, and the service requests removals on your behalf across hundreds of databases.

    This approach is especially helpful if:

    • You have moved recently
    • You shop online often
    • You receive frequent spam or scam messages
    • You want stronger privacy protections in 2026

    Many people see multiple removals within the first few weeks.

    Step 3) Keep it clean all year

    Data brokers do not stop collecting information. Even after removals, your data can reappear months later. Ongoing monitoring helps catch new listings and remove them before they spread further.

    That long-term protection is what keeps your data footprint smaller throughout the year.

    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 and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com.

    Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: Cyberguy.com.

    CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

    Kurt’s key takeaways

    If you want 2026 to be the year you take control of your digital life, start with the one thing that influences your security, your inbox, your finances and your peace of mind: Clearing your personal data from data broker sites. You can spend months trying to do it manually, or sign up once and let a data removal service handle all the hard work. A safer, quieter, more private 2026 is just minutes away.

    How much of your personal information do you think is already being bought and sold without your knowledge? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com. 

    Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
    Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide – free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter. 

    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.

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  • 700Credit data breach exposes SSNs of 5.8M consumers

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    Data breaches tied to financial services companies are no longer rare, but they still hit harder when Social Security numbers are involved. In the latest incident, U.S.-based fintech company 700Credit has confirmed that the personal data of more than 5.8 million people was exposed. The breach did not originate from a direct compromise of 700Credit’s internal network, which makes it more concerning. It began with a third-party integration partner and quietly snowballed over several months before it was detected. By the time the issue was contained, hackers had managed to steal a significant amount of sensitive consumer data.

    Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
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    DATA BREACH EXPOSES 400K BANK CUSTOMERS’ INFO

    A data breach at fintech firm 700Credit exposed the personal information of more than 5.8 million people after hackers accessed data through a third-party vendor. (Photo by Philip Dulian/picture alliance via Getty Images)

    What went wrong at 700Credit

    The company says the breach traces back to July, when a threat actor compromised one of its third-party integration partners, as reported by Bleeping Computer. During that intrusion, the attacker discovered an exposed API that could be used to access customer information linked to 700Credit’s dealership clients. The integration partner failed to inform 700Credit about the compromise, allowing the access to continue unnoticed.

    Suspicious activity was only detected on October 25, when 700Credit flagged unusual behavior on its systems and launched an internal investigation. The company says it brought in third-party computer forensic specialists to assess the scope of the incident and determine what data had been affected.

    According to the company’s findings, certain records within its web application were copied without authorization. These records are related to customers of auto dealerships that use 700Credit’s services. Managing Director Ken Hill later confirmed that roughly 20% of the consumer data accessible through the affected system was stolen between May and October.

    What data was exposed and why it matters

    While 700Credit has not published an exhaustive list of every data field involved, the company has confirmed that highly sensitive personal information was exposed. This includes Social Security numbers, which significantly raises the risk of identity theft and financial fraud. When SSNs are compromised, the impact is long-term. You cannot simply change them like a password.

    The company has published a dedicated page on its website outlining the breach and the types of information impacted. As part of its response, 700Credit is offering affected individuals 12 months of free identity protection and credit monitoring through TransUnion. You have a 90-day window to enroll in this service after receiving the notification.

    Notably, audio streaming platform SoundCloud and adult video sharing platform Pornhub also suffered data breaches tied to third-party vendors. There is no indication that the same vendor was involved in all three incidents, but the cases highlight how risky third-party access can be when vendors handle sensitive consumer data.

    CyberGuy reached out to 700Credit for comment but did not receive a response before publication.

    PASSWORD MANAGER FINED AFTER MAJOR DATA BREACH

    Person on their smartphone.

    Social Security numbers were among the sensitive data stolen in a monthslong breach involving 700Credit and an outside integration partner. (Photo by Matt Cardy/Getty Images)

    6 steps you can take to stay safe after a data breach

    When breaches like this happen, the damage is not always immediate. Your data can sit in underground markets for months before it is abused. That is why it helps to lock things down early. Here are six practical steps you can take.

    1) Use strong antivirus software 

    A good antivirus helps block malicious downloads, phishing links and spyware that often follow large data leaks. Attackers know your details are exposed and may try to target you directly with malware-based scams.

    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 & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.

    2) Switch to a password manager

    If you are still reusing passwords, this is the time to stop. A password manager helps you generate strong, unique passwords for every service and keeps them stored securely. If one site is breached, the rest of your accounts stay protected.

    Next, see if your email has been exposed in past breaches. Our #1 password manager (see Cyberguy.com) pick includes a built-in breach scanner that checks whether your email address or passwords have appeared in known leaks. If you discover a match, immediately change any reused passwords and secure those accounts with new, unique credentials. 

    Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 at Cyberguy.com.

    3) Enable two-factor authentication everywhere

    Turn on 2FA for email, banking, social media and cloud accounts. Even if someone has your password, they cannot log in without the second factor. App-based authenticators are more secure than SMS, where possible.

    4) Sign up for identity theft and credit monitoring

    Monitoring services alert you when new accounts, loans or credit checks appear in your name. Early alerts give you a chance to act before serious financial damage is done.

    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 at Cyberguy.com.

    PETCO CONFIRMS MAJOR DATA BREACH INVOLVING CUSTOMER DATA

    Photo of a phone with malware.

    Hackers quietly accessed consumer data tied to auto dealerships using 700Credit services before the breach was discovered in October. (Photo by Jaque Silva/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

    5) Consider a personal data removal service

    Your phone number, address and other details are often already scattered across data broker sites. Data removal services help reduce your digital footprint, making it harder for attackers to profile and target you after a breach.

    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 and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com.

    Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: Cyberguy.com.

    6) Freeze your credit if SSNs are exposed

    If your Social Security number is involved, a credit freeze is one of the strongest defenses. It prevents new credit accounts from being opened without your approval and can be lifted temporarily when needed. To learn more about how to do this, go to Cyberguy.com and search “How to freeze your credit.”

    CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

    Kurt’s key takeaway

    Third-party APIs and integrations are essential for modern digital services, but they also expand the attack surface. When third-party partners fail to disclose breaches quickly, the downstream impact can be massive, as this case shows. If you receive a notification from 700Credit, take it seriously. Enroll in the credit monitoring service, review your credit reports, and consider locking them down. Even if no fraud has occurred yet, breaches involving SSNs often lead to delayed abuse months or even years later.

    Should companies be held accountable when a third-party vendor exposes customer information? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

    Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
    Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts, and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide – free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter.

    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.

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  • Pornhub hit by massive user data leak exposing 200 million records

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    Pornhub is dealing with fresh fallout after the hacking group ShinyHunters claimed responsibility for a massive user data leak. The group says it stole 94GB of data tied to more than 200 million records and is now attempting to extort the company for a Bitcoin ransom.

    According to reporting from BleepingComputer, the hackers say they will publish the data if their demands are not met. Pornhub has acknowledged the situation but maintains its core systems were not breached.

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    DATA BREACH EXPOSES 400K BANK CUSTOMERS’ INFO

    Pornhub is facing new fallout after hackers claimed to steal millions of user records tied to Premium accounts. The group is threatening to release sensitive activity data unless paid in Bitcoin. (Philip Dulian/picture alliance via Getty Images)

    What data ShinyHunters claims to have stolen

    ShinyHunters says the exposed data focuses on Pornhub Premium users. While no financial information was included, the dataset still contains highly sensitive activity details.

    The group claims the stolen records include:

    • Email addresses
    • Activity type
    • Location
    • Video URLs and video names
    • Keywords linked to videos
    • Timestamps showing when the activity occurred

    Activity logs reportedly show whether a user watched or downloaded a video or viewed a channel. Search histories are also included, which raises serious privacy concerns if the data is released publicly.

    How Mixpanel is connected to the breach

    The alleged breach appears linked to a separate November security incident involving Mixpanel, a data analytics vendor that previously worked with Pornhub. That earlier breach occurred after a smishing attack gave threat actors access to Mixpanel systems. However, Mixpanel says it does not believe Pornhub data came from that incident. The company stated it found no evidence that the data was taken during its November 2025 breach. Pornhub has also clarified that it stopped working with Mixpanel in 2021. That means the stolen data would be several years old. Reuters contacted some Pornhub customers to verify the claims. Those users confirmed the data tied to their accounts was accurate but outdated, which aligns with the Mixpanel timeline.

    What Pornhub says was not exposed

    Pornhub moved quickly to reassure users following the reports. In a security notice, the company said:

    “This was not a breach of Pornhub Premium’s systems. Passwords, payment details and financial information remain secure and were not exposed.”

    That distinction reduces the immediate risk of financial fraud. However, exposure of viewing habits and search activity still carries long-term privacy risks. We reached out to Pornhub for a comment, but did not hear back before our deadline.

    Why ShinyHunters remains a serious threat

    ShinyHunters has been linked to some of the most disruptive data breaches this year. The group relies heavily on social engineering tactics such as phishing and smishing to gain access to corporate systems. Once inside, the group typically steals large datasets and uses extortion threats to pressure companies into paying ransoms. This strategy has affected businesses and users worldwide.

    PASSWORD MANAGER FINED AFTER MAJOR DATA BREACH

    Person typing on their laptop.

    A hacking group says it obtained years-old Pornhub Premium user data, including viewing activity and search history. Pornhub says its core systems were not breached. (Donato Fasano/Getty Images)

    Pornhub warns Premium members about direct contact from hackers

    Pornhub has updated its online statement to warn Premium members about possible direct contact from cybercriminals. In cases involving adult platforms, this type of outreach often escalates into sextortion attempts, where criminals threaten to expose private activity unless victims pay.

    “We are aware that the individuals responsible for this incident have threatened to contact impacted Pornhub Premium users directly. You may therefore receive emails claiming they have your personal information. As a reminder, we will never ask for your password or payment information by email.”

    Pornhub remains one of the world’s most visited adult video platforms. People can view content anonymously or create accounts to upload and interact with videos. 

    PETCO CONFIRMS MAJOR DATA BREACH INVOLVING CUSTOMER DATA

    Hacker on his laptop.

    ShinyHunters claims responsibility for a massive Pornhub data leak involving alleged user activity records. The company says passwords and payment details remain secure. (Morteza Nikoubazl/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

    Ways to stay safe after a data breach

    Even if the data is several years old, users should take this opportunity to strengthen their digital security.

    1) Change your passwords

    Start by updating your Pornhub password. Next, change the password for any email or payment account linked to it. Using a password manager makes it easier to create and store strong, unique passwords.

    Next, see if your email has been exposed in past breaches. Our #1 password manager (see Cyberguy.com/Passwords) pick includes a built-in breach scanner that checks whether your email address or passwords have appeared in known leaks. If you discover a match, immediately change any reused passwords and secure those accounts with new, unique credentials.

    Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 at Cyberguy.com

    2) Stay alert for phishing attempts and install strong antivirus software 

    Data breaches often lead to follow-up scams. Be cautious of emails, texts or phone calls that reference Pornhub or account issues. Avoid clicking links, downloading attachments or sharing personal information unless you can verify the source. Installing a strong antivirus program adds another layer of defense against malicious links and 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 & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com

    3) Use a data removal service to limit future exposure

    Data removal services work to remove your personal information from data broker websites that collect and sell details such as email addresses, locations and online identifiers. If leaked data from this breach is shared, resold or cross-referenced with broker databases, removing your information can make it much harder for scammers to connect it to you.

    This step is especially important after high-profile breaches involving activity data. Shrinking what is publicly available about you reduces the risk of targeted phishing, impersonation and long-term privacy harm.

    Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com/Delete

    Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: Cyberguy.com/FreeScan

    4) Consider identity theft protection

    Identity Theft companies can monitor personal information such as your Social Security Number (SSN), phone number, and email address and alert you if it is being sold on the dark web or used to open an account. Early warnings can help limit damage if your data surfaces. 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 at Cyberguy.com

    5) Add extra privacy protection with a VPN

    A VPN helps protect your browsing activity by masking your IP address and encrypting your internet traffic. That is especially relevant in breaches like this one, where exposed activity data may include location signals or usage patterns. While a VPN cannot erase past exposure, it reduces how much new information is visible going forward and makes it harder to link future activity back to you. Using a VPN consistently can also limit tracking across sites, which helps lower your overall digital footprint after a breach.

    For the best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com

     CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

    Kurt’s key takeaways

    The Pornhub massive data leak highlights how long stored user information can remain a risk. While passwords and payment details were not exposed, activity data can still be damaging if released. ShinyHunters has shown it is willing to apply pressure through public threats. As a result, you should stay vigilant and proactive about your online security.

    Should companies be allowed to store years of user activity data once it is no longer needed? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com
     

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    Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com.  All rights reserved.

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

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  • These are the cybersecurity stories we were jealous of in 2025 | TechCrunch

    It’s the end of the year. That means it’s time for us to celebrate the best cybersecurity stories we didn’t publish. Since 2023, TechCrunch has looked back at the best stories across the board from the year in cybersecurity.

    If you’re not familiar, the idea is simple. There are now dozens of journalists who cover cybersecurity in the English language. There are a lot of stories about cybersecurity, privacy, and surveillance that are published every week. And a lot of them are great, and you should read them. We’re here to recommend the ones we liked the most, so keep in mind that it’s a very subjective and, at the end of the day, incomplete list. 

    Anyway, let’s get into it. — Lorenzo Franceschi-Bicchierai

    Shane Harris described how he cultivated a senior Iranian hacker as a source, who was then killed

    Every once in a while, there’s a hacker story that as soon as you start reading, you think it could be a movie or a TV show. This is the case with Shane Harris’ very personal tale of his months-long correspondence with a top Iranian hacker. 

    In 2016, The Atlantic’s journalist made contact with a person claiming to work as a hacker for Iran’s intelligence, where he claimed to have worked on major operations, such as the downing of an American drone and the now-infamous hack against oil giant Saudi Aramco, where Iranian hackers wiped the company’s computers. Harris was rightly skeptical, but as he kept talking to the hacker, who eventually revealed his real name to him, Harris started to believe him. When the hacker died, Harris was able to piece together the real story, which somehow turned out to be more incredible than the hacker had led Harris to believe. 

    The gripping story is also a great behind-the-scenes look at the challenges cybersecurity reporters face when dealing with sources claiming to have great stories to share.

    The Washington Post revealed a secret order demanding Apple let U.K. officials spy on users’ encrypted data

    In January, the U.K. government secretly issued Apple with a court order demanding that the company build a back door so police can access the iCloud data of any customer in the world. Due to a worldwide gag order, it was only because The Washington Post broke the news that we learned the order existed to begin with. The demand was the first of its kind, and — if successful — would be a major defeat for tech giants who have spent the past decade locking themselves out of their users’ own data so they can’t be compelled to provide it to governments.

    Apple subsequently stopped offering its opt-in end-to-end encrypted cloud storage to its customers in the U.K. in response to the demand. But by breaking the news, the secret order was thrust into the public eye and allowed both Apple and critics to scrutinize U.K. surveillance powers in a way that hasn’t been tested in public before. The story sparked a months-long diplomatic row between the U.K. and the United States, prompting Downing Street to drop the request — only to try again several months later.

    “The Trump administration accidentally texted me its war plans” by The Atlantic is this year’s best headline

    This story was the sort of fly-on-the-wall access that some reporters would dream of, but The Atlantic’s editor-in-chief got to play out in real time after he was unwittingly added to a Signal group of senior U.S. government officials by a senior U.S. government official discussing war plans on their cell phones. 

    “We are currently clean on OPSEC,” said Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. they were not. Image Credits:The Atlantic (screenshot)

    Reading the discussion about where U.S. military forces should drop bombs — and then seeing news reports of missiles hitting the ground on the other side of the world — was confirmation that Jeffrey Goldberg needed to know that he was, as he suspected, in a real chat with real Trump administration officials, and this was all on-the-record and reportable.

    And so he did, paving the way for a months-long investigation (and critique) of the government’s operational security practices, in what was called the biggest government opsec mistake in history. The unraveling of the situation ultimately exposed security lapses involving the use of a knock-off Signal clone that further jeopardized the government’s ostensibly secure communications.

    Brian Krebs tracked down a prolific hacker group admin as a Jordanian teenager

    Brian Krebs is one of the more veteran cybersecurity reporters out there, and for years he has specialized in following online breadcrumbs that lead to him revealing the identity of notorious cybercriminals. In this case, Krebs was able to find the real identity behind a hacker’s online handle Rey, who is part of the notorious advanced persistent teenagers‘ cybercrime group that calls itself Scattered LAPSUS$ Hunters.

    Krebs’ quest was so successful that he was able to talk to a person very close to the hacker — we won’t spoil the whole article here — and then the hacker himself, who confessed to his crimes and claimed he was trying to escape the cybercriminal life. 

    Independent media outlet 404 Media has accomplished more impact journalism this year than most mainstream outlets with vastly more resources. One of its biggest wins was exposing and effectively shuttering a massive air travel surveillance system tapped by federal agencies and operating in plain sight.

    404 Media reported that a little-known data broker set up by the airline industry called the Airlines Reporting Corporation was selling access to 5 billion plane tickets and travel itineraries, including names and financial details of ordinary Americans, allowing government agencies like ICE, the State Department, and the IRS to track people without a warrant.

    ARC, owned by United, American, Delta, Southwest, JetBlue, and other airlines, said it would shut down the warrantless data program following 404 Media’s months-long reporting and intense pressure from lawmakers.

    Wired made the 3D-printed gun that Luigi Mangione allegedly used to kill a healthcare executive to test the legalities of “ghost guns”

    The killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in December 2024 was one of the biggest stories of the year. Luigi Mangione, the chief suspect in the killing, was soon after arrested and indicted on charges of using a “ghost gun,” a 3D-printed firearm that had no serial numbers and built in private without a background check — effectively a gun that the government has no idea exists.

    Wired, using its past reporting experience on 3D-printed weaponry, sought to test how easy it would be to build a 3D-printed gun, while navigating the patchwork legal (and ethical) landscape. The reporting process was exquisitely told, and the video that goes along with the story is both excellent and chilling.

    NPR detailed a federal whistleblower’s account of how DOGE took sensitive government data, and the threats he faced

    DOGE, or the Department of Government Efficiency, was one of the biggest running stories of the year, as the gang of Elon Musk’s lackeys ripped through the federal government, tearing down security protocols and red tape, as part of the mass-grab of citizens’ data. NPR had some of the best investigative reporting uncovering the resistance movement of federal workers trying to prevent the pilfering of the government’s most sensitive data.

    In one story detailing a whistleblower’s official disclosure as shared with members of Congress, a senior IT employee in the National Labor Relations Board told lawmakers that as he was seeking help investigating DOGE’s activity, he “found a printed letter in an envelope taped to his door, which included threatening language, sensitive personal information and overhead pictures of him walking his dog, according to the cover letter attached to his official disclosure.”

    Mother Jones found an exposed dataset of tracked surveillance victims, including world leaders, a Vatican enemy, and maybe you

    Any story that starts with a journalist saying they found something that made them “feel like shitting my pants,” you know it’s going to be a fun read. Gabriel Geiger found a dataset from a mysterious surveillance company called First Wap, which contained records on thousands of people from around the world whose phone locations had been tracked. 

    The dataset, spanning 2007 through 2015, allowed Geiger to identify dozens of high-profile people whose phones were tracked, including a former Syrian first lady, the head of a private military contractor, a Hollywood actor, and an enemy of the Vatican. This story explored the shadowy world of phone surveillance by exploiting Signaling System No. 7, or SS7, an obscurely named protocol long known to allow malicious tracking.

    Wired reported on the investigation behind a string of “swatting” attacks on hundreds of schools nationwide

    Swatting has been a problem for years. What started as a bad joke has become a real threat, which has resulted in at least one death. Swatting is a type of hoax where someone — often a hacker — calls the emergency services and tricks the authorities into sending an armed SWAT team to the home of the hoaxer’s target, often pretending to be the target themselves and pretending they are about to commit a violent crime. 

    In this feature, Wired’s Andy Greenberg put a face on the many characters who are part of these stories, such as the call operators who have to deal with this problem. And he also profiled a prolific swatter, known as Torswats, who for months tormented the operators and schools all over the country with fake — but extremely believable — threats of violence, as well as a hacker who took it upon himself to track Torswats down. 

    Zack Whittaker, Lorenzo Franceschi-Bicchierai

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  • New malware can read your chats and steal your money

    NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

    A new Android banking trojan called Sturnus is shaping up to be one of the most capable threats we have seen in a while. It is still in early development, but it already behaves like a fully mature operation. 

    Once it infects a device, it can take over your screen, steal your banking credentials and even read encrypted chats from apps you trust. The worrying part is how quietly it works in the background. You think your messages are safe because they are end-to-end encrypted, but this malware simply waits for the phone to decrypt them before grabbing everything. 

    It’s important to note, however, that Sturnus does not break encryption; it only captures messages after your apps decrypt them on your device.

    Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
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    Sturnus malware uses deceptive screens that mimic real banking apps to steal your credentials in seconds. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson )

    A closer look at the malware’s capabilities

    Sturnus combines several attack layers that give the operator nearly full visibility into the device, as reported by cybersecurity research firm ThreatFabric. It uses HTML overlays that mimic real banking apps to trick you into typing your credentials. Everything you enter goes straight to the attacker through a WebView that forwards the data instantly. It also runs an aggressive keylogging system through the Android Accessibility Service. This lets it capture text as you type, follow which app is open, and map every UI element on the screen. Even when apps block screenshots, the malware keeps tracking the UI tree in real time, which is enough to reconstruct what you are doing.

    NEW ANDROID MALWARE CAN EMPTY YOUR BANK ACCOUNT IN SECONDS

    On top of overlays and keylogging, the malware monitors WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal and other messaging apps. It waits for these apps to decrypt messages locally, then captures the text right from the screen. This means your chats may remain encrypted over the network, but once the message appears on your display, Sturnus sees the entire conversation. It also includes a full remote control feature with live screen streaming and a more efficient mode that sends only interface data. This allows precise taps, text injection, scrolling and permission approvals without showing any activity to the victim.

    How Sturnus stays hidden and steals money

    The malware protects itself by grabbing Device Administrator privileges and blocking any attempt to remove it. If you open the settings page that could disable those permissions, Sturnus detects it immediately and moves you away from the screen before you can act. It also monitors battery state, SIM changes, developer mode, network conditions and even signs of forensic investigation to decide how to behave. All this data goes back to the command-and-control server through a mix of WebSocket and HTTP channels protected with RSA and AES encryption.

    When it comes to financial theft, the malware has several ways to take over your accounts. It can collect credentials through overlays, keylogging, UI-tree monitoring and direct text injection. If needed, it can black out your screen with a full-screen overlay while the attacker performs fraudulent transactions in the background. Since the screen is hidden, you have no idea anything is happening until it is too late.

    7 ways you can stay safe from Android malware like Sturnus

    If you want to protect yourself from threats like this, here are a few practical things you can start doing right away.

    1) Install apps only from trusted and verified sources

    Avoid downloading APKs from forwarded links, shady websites, Telegram groups or third-party app stores. Banking malware spreads most effectively through sideloaded installers disguised as updates, coupons or new features. If you need an app that isn’t in the Play Store, verify the developer’s official site, check hashes if provided and read recent reviews to make sure the app hasn’t been hijacked.

    2) Check permission requests carefully before tapping allow

    Most dangerous malware relies on accessibility permissions because they allow full visibility into your screen and interactions. Device administrator rights are even more powerful since they can block removal. If a simple utility app suddenly asks for these, stop immediately. These permissions should only be granted to apps that genuinely need them, such as password managers or accessibility tools you trust.

    3) Keep your phone updated

    Install system updates as soon as they arrive, since many Android banking trojans target older devices that lack the latest security patches. If your phone is no longer receiving updates, you are at a higher risk, especially when using financial apps. Avoid sideloading custom ROMs unless you know how they handle security patches and Google Play Protect.

    HOW ANDROID MALWARE LETS THIEVES ACCESS YOUR ATM CASH

    4) Use strong antivirus software

    Person holds iPhone showing the Whatsapp logo

    The malware quietly captures decrypted messages from apps like WhatsApp, Telegram and Signal right as they appear on your screen. (Kurt Knutsson)

    Android phones come with Google Play Protect built in, which catches a large chunk of known malware families and warns you when apps behave suspiciously. But if you want greater security and control, choose a third-party antivirus app. These tools can alert you when an app starts logging your screen or trying to take over your phone.

    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 & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.

    5) Use a personal data removal service

    A lot of these campaigns rely on data brokers, leaked databases and scraped profiles to build lists of people to target. If your phone number, email, address or social handles are floating around on dozens of broker sites, it becomes much easier for attackers to reach you with malware links or tailored scams. A personal data removal service helps clean up that footprint by deleting your info from data broker listings.

    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 and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com.

    Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: Cyberguy.com.

    6) Treat unusual login screens and pop-ups as red flags

    Trojan overlays often appear when you open your bank app or a popular service. If the screen layout looks different or asks for credentials in a way you don’t recognize, close the app completely. Reopen it from your app drawer and see if the prompt returns. If it doesn’t, you probably caught an overlay. Never type banking details into screens that appear suddenly or seem out of place.

    Man typing on his laptop.

    With remote control tools that stream your screen and automate taps, attackers can move money behind the scenes without you noticing. (Felix Zahn/Photothek via Getty Images)

    7) Be cautious with links and attachments you receive

    Attackers frequently distribute malware through WhatsApp links, SMS messages and email attachments pretending to be invoices, refunds or delivery updates. If you receive a link you weren’t expecting, open your browser manually and search for the service instead. Avoid installing anything that comes from a message, even if it appears to be from someone you know. Compromised accounts are a common delivery method.

    DATA BREACH EXPOSES 400,000 BANK CUSTOMERS’ INFO

    Kurt’s key takeaway

    Sturnus is still a young malware family, but it already stands out for how much control it gives attackers. It sidesteps encrypted messaging, steals banking credentials with multiple backup methods, and maintains a strong grip on the device through administrator privileges and constant environmental checks. Even if the current campaigns are limited, the level of sophistication here suggests a threat that is being refined for larger operations. If it reaches wide distribution, it could become one of the most damaging Android banking trojans in circulation.

    Have scammers ever tried to trick you into installing an app or clicking a link? How did you handle it? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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    Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

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

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