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Fox News
4 hours ago
- Fox News
CAPTCHAgeddon signals a dangerous shift
What looks like a simple "Are you human?" check is now one of the most dangerous tricks on the internet. Fake captchas have evolved into full-blown malware launchpads, thanks to a sneaky new method called ClickFix. It copies commands to your clipboard and tricks you into running them, without ever downloading a file. This shift in attack tactics is so big that researchers are calling it "CAPTCHAgeddon." It's not just a new scam. It's a viral malware delivery system that's more convincing, stealthy, and widespread than anything before it. Let's break down how this new wave of attacks works and what makes it so hard to stop. 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 Back in 2024, security experts warned about fake browser update pop-ups. Victims were told to download files that turned out to be malware. But those tricks are now outdated. Enter ClickFix. Instead of asking users to install something, ClickFix loads a fake CAPTCHA screen. It looks legit, just like Google reCAPTCHA or Cloudflare's bot checks. But when you click "verify," it secretly copies a malicious PowerShell or shell script to your clipboard. From there, you're just one paste away from installing malware that steals your accounts, passwords, and files. This new trick is more convincing than any old download prompt. And it's spreading like wildfire. Fake captchas didn't stay in sketchy ad pop-ups for long. Attackers realized they could hide these tricks in places people already trust: Each attack blends into the site or service it mimics. Some CAPTCHAS even display site logos, making the trick look like it came from the page itself. This isn't a spray-and-pray scheme anymore. It's targeted social engineering wrapped in sleek design. These aren't low-effort scams. Attackers constantly evolve their tactics to avoid detection. Here's what makes this malware so stealthy: Attackers also serve the payloads through trusted-looking domains and even legitimate-looking JavaScript libraries. Security researchers at Guardio didn't just look at one attack. They analyzed thousands. By clustering command structures, domains, and payload patterns, they identified multiple threat actors using similar tactics, each with a slightly different twist. Some groups use heavily obfuscated code. Others go for speed with clean, readable scripts. But all of them rely on the same core trick: fooling you into clicking something that seems harmless. These new ClickFix scams are stealthy, convincing, and hard to detect, but you can stay safe with the right habits and tools. Here's what to do immediately: Always run the latest version of your browser and operating system. Updates patch security holes that attackers exploit. Also, use a strong antivirus software and keep it updated. 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 If a site asks you to paste a command into your terminal or browser console, stop. That's the main delivery method for ClickFix malware. Legitimate services will never ask you to do this. Phishing campaigns are hiding fake CAPTCHAs in legit-looking URLs on Reddit, GitHub, and even news sites. Always hover over links before clicking and double-check the domain, especially if prompted to "verify you're human." These attacks often target users whose emails or personal details are already circulating online. These services can reduce your digital footprint by requesting removal from data broker sites. While no service can guarantee the complete removal of your data from the internet, a data removal service is really a smart choice. They aren't cheap - and neither is your privacy. These services do all the work for you by actively monitoring and systematically erasing your personal information from hundreds of websites. It's what gives me peace of mind and has proven to be the most effective way to erase your personal data from the internet. By limiting the information available, you reduce the risk of scammers cross-referencing data from breaches with information they might find on the dark web, making it harder for them to target you. Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: Modern browsers like Brave, Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Opera offer real-time protection that blocks malicious websites, including fake CAPTCHA pages. Microsoft Edge also includes strong phishing defenses through its SmartScreen filter. Make sure features like Enhanced Safe Browsing or SmartScreen are turned on. These tools detect threats before you click, giving you a critical layer of defense. Password managers don't just store your logins; they can also alert you when a site looks suspicious. If your manager won't autofill a password on a CAPTCHA screen or login page, that's a red flag. It usually means the site isn't recognized as legitimate. This small moment of hesitation can help you avoid falling for a scam. Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 at If you land on a shady CAPTCHA page, don't just close the tab; report it. Most browsers have a "Report a security issue" option, or you can use Google Safe Browsing ( Flagging malicious pages helps stop the scam from spreading and protects others from falling victim to the same trap. Most people don't know about these clipboard-based attacks. Share this article and talk about it. Raising awareness can stop the scam from spreading. CAPTCHAgeddon marks a turning point. Malware isn't just hiding in shady downloads anymore. It's hiding in plain sight, on familiar websites, in trusted apps, and inside the buttons you click every day. This trend replaces the fake browser update scam entirely. It's smarter, faster, and harder to detect. And unless we understand how it spreads, it will only grow. Security now means thinking twice about the everyday. Even a CAPTCHA. Have you ever encountered a suspicious CAPTCHA or a strange prompt online? What tipped you off, or did you almost fall for it? Let us know by writing to us at 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 Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
Fox News
8 hours ago
- Fox News
Instagram Friend Map feature sparks privacy questions
Instagram has introduced three new features to help you share more easily with friends: Friend Map, Repost, and a Friends tab in Reels. While all three are designed to boost connection, one in particular, the Friend Map, has sparked some privacy misconceptions. While the Friend Map has been welcomed by some, it's also fueling misconceptions online. Social media posts have spread confusion about whether it shares your live location by default, prompting questions about how much control you really have. Here's what these new tools actually do, how they work, and what you need to know before using them. 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 The new Repost feature lets you share public reels and feed posts directly with your followers. Your reposts appear both in their feeds and in a dedicated tab on your profile, making it easy to revisit your favorites. Creators benefit, too. When someone reposts your content, it can reach that person's followers, even if they don't follow you, opening the door to new audiences. To repost, tap the repost icon, add an optional note, and save. The post will credit the original creator so everyone knows where it came from. Friend Map allows you to opt in to sharing your last active location with a select group of friends. You can choose from options like friends you follow back, Close Friends, or a custom list. You can also turn location sharing off at any time. Privacy matters here. A Meta spokesperson told us: "Instagram Map is off by default, and your live location is never shared unless you choose to turn it on. If you do, only people you follow back—or a private, custom list you select—can see your location." Head of Instagram Adam Mosseri also clarified that tagging a location in your story only shares that place with your followers for 24 hours, it does not reveal your real-time location. If you're a parent with supervision tools enabled, you'll be notified if your teen turns on location sharing. You can also disable the feature for them. Location updates occur when you open the app or return to it from the background. Beyond location sharing, the map also lets you explore stories, reels, and notes tagged with a location from friends and creators you follow. The Friends tab in Reels shows you the public content your friends have liked, commented on, reposted, or created. You can also see recommendations from Blends you've joined. You'll have controls to hide your own likes or comments and mute activity from certain people. This makes it easy to keep your feed focused on what you enjoy. If you love staying connected on Instagram, these tools give you more ways to share and discover content with people you care about. But the Friend Map feature demands extra attention. If you decide to turn it on, take time to customize your sharing settings. Think about who really needs to see your location and review your choices regularly. For parents, this is a good opportunity to talk with teens about online privacy. Instagram's latest features are a mix of fun and function. Reposts make it easier to share what inspires you, Friends tab helps spark conversations, and Friend Map opens the door to spontaneous meetups, but only if you manage privacy wisely. The good news: you're in control of what you share and with whom. So, would you trade a little privacy for more connection with friends on Instagram? Let us know by writing to us at 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 Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
Fox News
a day ago
- Business
- Fox News
WhatsApp bans 6.8M scam accounts, launches safety tool
Scammers are working harder than ever to trick people online, but WhatsApp is hitting back in a big way. In the first half of 2025, WhatsApp removed more than 6.8 million accounts tied to global scam networks, many of them run by criminal groups and even forced labor camps in Southeast Asia. At the same time, the app is rolling out new tools to make it easier to spot scams and stay safe while messaging. These updates come as fraudsters increasingly use private messaging apps, dating platforms, social media and even AI tools like ChatGPT to run their schemes. Let's break down what's new, how scams are evolving and what you can do right now to protect yourself. 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 Online scams no longer live on just one platform. Criminal operations often start with a text or dating app, move to WhatsApp, and finish on Telegram or a crypto exchange. In just one scheme, scammers may run a victim through five different apps to make the fraud harder to detect. In a recent takedown, WhatsApp and Meta partnered with OpenAI to shut down a scam operation linked to Cambodia. Fraudsters used ChatGPT to generate messages offering fake "like-for-pay" gigs. Victims were told to message on WhatsApp, then moved to Telegram and asked to like TikTok videos. Once trust was built, scammers asked for crypto deposits to unlock fake earnings. These scams feed on financial stress and urgency. If someone promises fast cash, easy returns or pressures you to act quickly, stop and think. To stop scams before they spread, WhatsApp is introducing new features to give you more control. If someone who's not in your contacts adds you to a group, you'll now see a safety screen with details about the group and privacy tips. You can leave the group instantly, without reading a single message. Notifications stay silent unless you confirm you want to stay. Scammers often reach out on social media or dating sites, then ask to switch to WhatsApp. To help you spot these red flags, WhatsApp is testing alerts that show when you message someone not in your contacts. These alerts provide added context so you can decide whether to engage. WhatsApp has teamed up with internet safety expert Rachel Tobac to share this three-step strategy to stop scams before they succeed: Slow down. If you don't recognize the number or the message feels off, wait before replying. Does it seem realistic? Are they asking for money, PINs or gift cards? Are they offering big payouts for little work? These are classic scam signs. If someone claims to be a friend or relative, contact them through another method you already use, like calling their regular phone number. Even with WhatsApp removing 6.8 million scam-linked accounts, the responsibility to stay safe doesn't end there. Scammers will always find new angles and often prey on the same people across multiple platforms. That's why it's smart to take extra steps beyond what WhatsApp offers. Here are five ways to add layers of protection: Scammers often try to trick you into clicking on links or downloading files that can compromise your device. A strong antivirus program can block these threats before they do harm. It can also alert you to phishing attempts disguised as WhatsApp messages. 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 Limit who can add you to group chats or see your personal information. Go to your WhatsApp privacy settings and change "Groups" to "My Contacts" or "My Contacts Except..." to avoid being pulled into suspicious chats. Here's how to limit who can add you to WhatsApp group chats: Pro tip: While you're in the Privacy menu, review other settings like Profile Photo, About, and Last Seen & Online. Set these to My Contacts or Nobody for even more control over who can see your personal info. Scammers often scrape the internet for names, numbers, emails and social media accounts to make their messages seem more convincing. A personal data removal service can help scrub your details from data broker sites, making it harder 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 a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: Turn on two-step verification in WhatsApp to prevent someone from hijacking your account. This adds an extra PIN code that scammers can't get through, even if they trick you into revealing your login credentials. How to enable two-step verification in WhatsApp Once enabled, WhatsApp will occasionally ask you to re-enter your PIN to help you remember it. This added layer of security helps block scammers, even if they get access to your phone number or SIM card. If someone messages you on WhatsApp but says they found you on Instagram or a dating app, be extra cautious. Criminal scam centers rely on hopping between platforms to avoid detection. Don't follow links or move conversations unless you've confirmed the identity on another trusted channel. If you use WhatsApp, these new tools give you more control over who contacts you and how. Scams aren't always obvious, but with built-in safety features and a little skepticism, you can avoid costly mistakes. The fact that WhatsApp has banned millions of accounts shows just how widespread and organized these scams have become. Staying informed is your first line of defense. Scammers will always look for new ways to trick people, but apps like WhatsApp are fighting back with smarter tools and better protections. Knowing what to watch for and how to respond can make all the difference. So before you click, reply or share, take a moment to pause, question and verify. Have you ever been targeted by a scam on WhatsApp or another app? Let us know by writing to us at 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 Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
Fox News
4 days ago
- Fox News
How to tell if your Samsung Galaxy tablet has been hacked
Tablets aren't just for streaming and strolling anymore. For many people, they serve as a digital wallet, photo album, document hub and even a mobile office. That's especially true for Samsung Galaxy tablets, which offer powerful features and device sync capabilities that make them incredibly convenient and, unfortunately, a tempting target for criminals. Unlike traditional computer hacks, compromising a tablet doesn't always require elite technical skills. Sometimes, all it takes is a convincing phishing message, a shady app download or a moment of distraction in public. Once someone has access, your stored passwords, banking apps and private files could be up for grabs. If your Galaxy tablet is acting strange or showing signs of compromise, don't ignore it. Here's how to spot the warning signs and what to do next. 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 Samsung Galaxy tablets are capable of storing everything from passwords and payment methods to sensitive documents. They can even act as authentication devices for logging into other accounts. That makes them valuable, not just to you, but to hackers looking for a way in. Unlike Apple devices, Galaxy tablets run on Android, which is known for its flexibility and open-source ecosystem. While this gives users more freedom, it also opens the door to greater risk. Third-party apps, less strict app store screening and inconsistent update habits across devices can leave Galaxy tablets exposed to malware and data theft. In short, the more essential your tablet becomes in your daily life, the more attractive it becomes to cybercriminals. Hackers don't always need complex software or advanced skills to gain access to your tablet. In many cases, they rely on user behavior and weak security settings. Here are some of the most common entry points: It's not always obvious when something's wrong. A hacked tablet won't flash a red alert, but it will start acting in ways that just don't feel normal. Small changes in performance or behavior can be early signs that something's off. If you notice one or more of the following issues, it's worth taking a closer look: If your tablet is acting strange, or you've spotted signs of compromise, don't wait it out. Taking action quickly can help stop further damage and keep your personal data safe. Here's what to do: Safe Mode is a helpful troubleshooting tool that disables all third-party apps, allowing you to determine if an issue is caused by a downloaded app. If problems disappear in Safe Mode, a third-party app is likely to be the cause. Enable Safe Mode while your tablet is turned off: Enable Safe Mode from the power menu (when the tablet is on): Review your installed apps and remove anything unfamiliar or suspicious. Pay extra attention to apps without clear names or icons that resemble system tools but weren't preloaded. Steps to uninstall unknown apps from a Samsung Galaxy Tablet: If "uninstall" isn't an option: Some system or preinstalled apps can't be fully removed but can be disabled: Pop-ups and in-app ads can trick you into tapping fake links or downloading harmful files. Even if they look trustworthy, avoid clicking on them on your Samsung Galaxy tablet. Frequent pop-ups may signal hidden adware or an app behaving badly. To protect your device, install strong antivirus software with real-time protection. A trusted security app can scan for malware, block unsafe websites and detect suspicious apps running in the background. It also helps remove hidden threats like spyware and keeps your tablet secure and running smoothly. Taking these steps boosts your privacy and gives you peace of mind while browsing or using apps. Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at Look through your messages and call logs for anything you didn't initiate. Also, check for unusual permission changes, especially for apps that access your location, contacts, camera or microphone. Check for unusual battery or data consumption, which can indicate malicious or misbehaving apps. Use Samsung's built-in tools for stronger protection. If your tablet runs One UI 6.0 (Android 14) or later: Start with your Samsung account, email and bank logins, especially if you used them on your tablet. Consider using a password manager to generate and store strong passwords. Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 at A VPN encrypts your connection and protects your data when you're on public Wi-Fi. A reliable VPN is essential for protecting your online privacy and ensuring a secure, high-speed connection. For the best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at Hackers often exploit outdated software. Go to Settings > Software update > Download and install to check for the latest updates. Also, open the Galaxy Store and Google Play Store, tap your profile, and update all apps. Updates often include security patches that close known vulnerabilities. See if any unknown devices or sessions are logged into your account: Make sure only trusted sources can install apps: Even with a strong third-party antivirus, it's smart to run Google's native security check: If you suspect your device was used to send scam messages, let your contacts know. This can prevent further phishing attacks from spreading from your hacked account. Malware sometimes hides in accessibility settings: If the problems persist, and you can't identify the source, back up your data and perform a factory reset. Back up your data Before resetting, make sure your important files are saved. A factory reset will erase everything. You can also connect to a computer and copy files manually if you prefer. Perform a factory reset Your tablet will restart and begin the reset process. This may take several minutes. After the reset, you'll need to sign in with your Google account to complete the setup. This is part of Factory Reset Protection (FRP) to prevent unauthorized access. Hackers often scrape personal details from public data broker sites. Even if you secure your tablet, your name, email, phone number and home address may still be circulating online, making you a target for future scams, identity theft or phishing attempts. A personal data removal service scans these broker sites and submits removal requests on your behalf. It's a helpful way to reduce your digital footprint and stop criminals from exploiting your exposed information. 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 a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: If your Samsung Galaxy tablet is running hot, glitching or showing apps you don't recognize, it might not be a fluke. These are often early signs of malware or a security breach. Hackers don't always need advanced tools to get in. A single bad link or outdated setting can expose your personal data. Take action right away by removing suspicious apps, checking your settings and running a trusted antivirus scan. Using Safe Mode can help pinpoint the problem, and Samsung's built-in security tools offer extra protection moving forward. For even more security, consider adding a VPN and password manager to your daily routine. If nothing else works, back up your data and perform a factory reset to start fresh and protect your information. Have you ever had your tablet hacked or noticed something suspicious on your device? Let us know by writing to us at 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 Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
Fox News
4 days ago
- Fox News
AI companions replace real friends for many teens
Artificial intelligence is no longer just a tool for homework or simple tasks. Today, many teens use AI-powered companions for emotional support, advice and even simulated relationships. These apps simulate conversation in ways that feel deeply personal and, for some teens, deeply real. Recent survey data shows that nearly three-quarters of teens aged 13 to 17 have tried a digital companion at least once, and more than half continue to use them regularly. About one in eight say they use these tools daily, often to talk about personal challenges, vent feelings or practice social interaction. 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 Teens are drawn to these platforms for several reasons. They are always available, they listen without judgment and they never push back. Because of this, many teens who feel lonely or anxious find them easier to talk to than real people. One-third of teens say they have chosen to speak with AI instead of a real person during a serious moment. Of those teens, 31% report finding those conversations equally or more satisfying than talking with a peer. While most teens still spend more time with real-life friends, a small but growing number prefer the control and predictability of digital interaction. As the use of AI companions grows, so do concerns from researchers and child development experts. Many of these platforms marketed to teens have weak age verification, no effective content moderation and limited tools for identifying signs of crisis. Investigations have found instances of inappropriate content, sexualized role play and harmful advice being delivered to young users. In some cases, AI companions have failed to flag signs of mental health struggles or issues that could worsen emotional distress. Experts warn that this reliance on agreeable, overly affirming digital companions may hinder emotional growth. Teens may miss the opportunity to build real-life empathy, navigate disagreements or learn the give-and-take of human connection. The influence of digital relationships is extending beyond casual conversation. In one industry study, over 80% of Gen Z respondents said they would consider marrying AI in the future. Many also believe these tools are capable of forming deep emotional bonds, beyond just light or casual interactions. These shifts are raising new questions about how teens define relationships and what they expect from others. If AI friends become a primary model for connection, some worry it could reshape how young people approach trust, intimacy and emotional resilience. If you're a parent, teacher or mentor, it's important to understand what's drawing teens to AI companions and how to talk about it. Here are five tips to get you started: 1. Start the conversation: Ask open-ended questions without judgment. Teens are more likely to share when they feel safe and understood. 2. Don't dismiss it: These tools may feel strange to adults, but they often fill real emotional gaps for teens. Acknowledge their value while setting healthy boundaries. 3. Set digital guidelines: Discuss privacy, safety and what to do if an AI ever gives advice that feels off or makes them uncomfortable. 4. Stay informed: Monitor which apps your teen uses and how often. Some offer parental settings or usage insights. 5. Encourage real-world connection: Promote activities that build empathy, cooperation and communication, things AI can't truly offer. Teens are building real emotional bonds with AI. While these digital companions can offer comfort and a sense of control, they also carry significant psychological and developmental risks. The technology is moving fast, but support systems and safeguards have not kept pace. Parents and educators should stay aware, ask questions and help teens navigate a world where emotional connections no longer require another human. Have you or someone you know used AI for support or connection? Let us know by writing to us at 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 Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
