Category: Science & Enviroment

The world’s biggest iceberg is on the move again after being trapped in a vortex for most of the year.

A23a is 3,800 sq km (1,500 sq miles), which is more than twice the size of Greater London, and is 400m (1,312ft) thick. It broke free of Antarctica in 1986 though soon became stuck just off the coast.

The depth of the iceberg meant its bottom became lodged on the floor of the Weddell Sea, part of the Southern Ocean, where it remained static for more than 30 years.

It began to move northwards in 2020 but, since the spring, has been spinning on the spot after it was caught in a rotating column of water near the South Orkney Islands.

On Friday the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) said it was now drifting further north.

Dr Andrew Meijers, an oceanographer at the BAS, said: “It’s exciting to see A23a on the move again after periods of being stuck.

“We are interested to see if it will take the same route the other large icebergs that have calved off Antarctica have taken.”

It is thought A23a will eventually leave the Southern Ocean and enter the Atlantic Ocean where it will encounter warmer waters and likely break up into smaller icebergs and eventually melt.

Dr Meijers and the BAS are examining the impact of icebergs on local ecosystems after they pass through them.

A year ago researchers aboard the RRS Sir David Attenborough collected data from the water around A23a.

Laura Taylor, a biogeochemist who was part of the crew, said: “We know that these giant icebergs can provide nutrients to the waters they pass through, creating thriving ecosystems in otherwise less productive areas.

“What we don’t know is what difference particular icebergs, their scale, and their origins can make to that process.”

Holiday decoration theft has become an increasingly frustrating issue for many homeowners. Karen from Los Angeles shared her experience with us in an email, stating,

“We have criminals who visit our neighborhood to not only steal mail and packages but also holiday decorations. I made a Christmas decoration for our mailbox, which was promptly stolen.”

We’re sorry to hear about the theft in your neighborhood. This highlights a problem that goes beyond mere property loss. It’s a theft of holiday cheer and personal effort. Let’s see how we can use technology to help secure your decorations.

GET SECURITY ALERTS, EXPERT TIPS — SIGN UP FOR KURT’S NEWSLETTER — THE CYBERGUY REPORT HERE

Outdoor decorations that were stolen. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Smart solutions for festive security

Karen also inquired about the effectiveness of Samsung SmartTags, asking if these tags would work on her decorations and how far they could reach. The good news is that Samsung SmartTags can indeed be used on your holiday decorations. You can attach the SmartTag to any item you want to track. These devices are compatible with most recent Samsung Galaxy phones, including the Galaxy S9, making them accessible to many Android users.

As for the distance, the range of the Samsung SmartTag uses Bluetooth to connect to your phone. If the item is within Bluetooth range, you can ring it to find it or use the “Search Nearby” feature to get directions to it. If the item is out of range, other Samsung devices near the tag will anonymously locate it for you and then let you know where it is. This is done in the background and is encrypted to ensure privacy. The SmartTag does not beep when it’s out of range.

The Samsung SmartTag is compatible with almost all Samsung Galaxy phones released recently. They must have 2GB of RAM and run Android 8.0 (Oreo) or higher. So, your Samsung Galaxy S9 phones should be compatible with the Samsung SmartTag.

Outdoor Christmas decorations. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

TOP PICKS TO AMP UP YOUR HOME SECURITY

Apple AirTags: An alternative approach

For those considering a switch to Apple, AirTags present another viable option. Karen asked if she would have problems tracking her decorations with an Apple AirTag. While primarily designed for iOS devices, you can use it with your Android phone as mentioned in our article here, with some limitations. It uses the Find My network, and if another Apple device passes by the AirTag, the Find My network will be notified of the lost item’s location.

The AirTag does not beep when it’s out of range. However, the AirTag’s Precision Finding feature, which provides highly accurate tracking, is only compatible with iPhone 11 series and onwards. If you’re considering purchasing an iPhone, the iPhone 11 would be a relatively inexpensive option that is compatible with the AirTag’s Precision Finding feature.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

Outdoor Christmas decorations. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

BEST HOME SECURITY SYSTEMS

Samsung SmartTags vs. Apple AirTags

Both Samsung SmartTags and Apple AirTags offer extensive tracking capabilities. The SmartTag uses Bluetooth for nearby tracking and relies on other Samsung devices for long-range location. Similarly, AirTags leverage the Find My network, utilizing nearby Apple devices to relay location information.

For Samsung users like Karen, the SmartTag is the natural choice, working seamlessly with Galaxy devices. Those considering Apple might look at the AirTag as an option.

Please note that while these tags can help you track your items, they might not prevent theft as they are not hidden devices and can be removed by someone who recognizes what they are. 

Outdoor Christmas decorations. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

10 THINGS YOU MUST CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING ANY SECURITY CAMERA

Additional tips for festive security

1. Use motion-activated cameras: Install motion-activated security cameras to monitor your decorations. Many security cameras send real-time notifications to your phone, allowing you to act quickly if someone tampers with your property.

2. Secure decorations: Consider physically securing your decorations with zip ties, chains or locks. While this won’t deter all thieves, it can make stealing more difficult and time-consuming.

3. Light it up: Well-lit areas are less appealing to thieves. Ensure your yard and decorations are adequately lit with outdoor lights, especially in dark corners or near entry points.

4. Engage your neighbors: Create a sense of community by alerting neighbors to thefts and keeping an eye out for suspicious activity. A connected neighborhood can act as a strong deterrent.

5. Mark your property: Use invisible ink or engrave your decorations with a unique identifier. If stolen items are recovered, this will help law enforcement return them to you.

6. Report thefts to local law enforcement: Always report thefts, no matter how small. Law enforcement can track patterns and increase patrols in areas with frequent incidents. Providing details may also help them recover stolen items.

GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE

Outdoor Christmas decorations. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Kurt’s key takeaways

In her email, Karen expressed her frustration: “I know this seems minor… but it’s disheartening to see the things you spend time, money and a little love get stolen.” The desire to protect holiday decorations goes beyond material value — it’s about safeguarding the joy and effort put into creating a festive atmosphere. As we embrace these technologies, let’s also remember the importance of community vigilance and mutual respect.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Have you ever used tracking devices, security cameras, or other gadgets to safeguard your decorations? What worked well, and what would you recommend to others? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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

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

Follow Kurt on his social channels:

Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:

New from Kurt:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

The government has unveiled plans to give ministers the final say on approving large onshore wind farms rather than leaving decisions to local councils, where opposition has often been fierce.

The plan is among proposals announced by Energy Secretary Ed Miliband on Friday as part of what the government is calling an “ambitious” action plan for reaching 95% clean energy in the UK by 2030.

Miliband also wants to give powers to the energy regulator to prioritise projects in the queue waiting to link up with the National Grid.

But Conservative Shadow Secretary of State for Energy Security Claire Coutinho said the plans would simply push bills “even higher”.

The government wants to bring large onshore wind projects back into the Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP) regime in England – in line with other energy infrastructure.

Labour’s plans would mean the government would have the final say on approving wind farm projects larger than 100MW, rather than councils.

Coutinho said Labour’s “rush” to decarbonise the electricity system by 2030 would push up electricity prices and cause more hardship for people across Britain.

“We need cheap, reliable energy – not even higher bills,” she said.

But Miliband told BBC Breakfast on Friday that the current reliance on gas leaves consumers vulnerable to price changes.

“At the moment we are at the mercy of the rollercoaster of fossil fuel markets – gas prices are subject to the decisions of petrostates and dictators,” he said.

“It is time to have homegrown clean energy that we can control.”

Prior to the election Labour predicted that households would save £300 on their energy bills as a result of its green measures – citing research by independent think tank Ember.

On Friday Miliband reasserted this figure but said it would be “up to £300” – suggesting it could be lower.

Onshore wind is one of the cheapest forms of clean energy. But there has been a 94% decline in projects in England since 2015 when the previous Conservative government tightened planning regulations for wind farms – following pushback from local communities over potential environmental damage.

Subsequently, only a small number of local objections would be enough to effectively block new projects.

Following Labour’s general election victory, planning rules for onshore wind were eased in September 2024. But renewable energy groups said they did not go far enough.

The public will still be consulted on new wind farms, but the secretary of state will be empowered to take any final decision -based on national priorities such as tackling climate change.

Mr Miliband told the BBC’s Today programme on Friday: “There are difficult trade offs here and unless we change the way we do things we are going to be left exposed as a country.

“In the end it will be a national decision.”

The government maintains any project will need to have “direct community benefits” and proposes to establish a recovery fund to invest in nature projects as compensation for any environmental damage.

The 136-page action plan includes other measures to accelerate renewable energy.

Among these are prioritising projects to enable an early connection to the electricity grid, and incentivising private investment.

The government wants to move away from a “first-come first-served” approval process for the grid, and prioritise those likely to be most useful.

There are currently thousands of projects waiting in a queue to be approved to be connected to the UK grid. If all the projects were given the go-ahead, 739GW of energy would be added to the system, 14 times the amount of renewable energy the country currently has.

Labour projects these reforms could attract £40bn a year from mainly private investment in “homegrown clean power projects”.

The industry has been calling for many of these measures for years and broadly welcomed the plans.

Lucy Yu, CEO for think tank Centre for Net Zero, said: “The Clean Power Action Plan shows that the government isn’t afraid to be bold, illustrated by the breadth and nature of proposed changes.”

Yu, who is also a government adviser, warned ministers not to “forget the central role of consumers and communities in the energy transition”.

“The British public’s support will be key, and the government must ensure clean power delivery has their interests at heart.”

Can an electric delivery truck defy the worst that winter has to offer? 

Harbinger, a leading medium-duty electric vehicle (EV) company, has recently demonstrated that it can. 

The company has released a video showcasing its EV delivery truck handling icy roads with impressive agility and stability during winter testing in New Zealand.

GET SECURITY ALERTS, EXPERT TIPS – SIGN UP FOR KURT’S NEWSLETTER – THE CYBERGUY REPORT HERE

EV delivery truck being tested in winter conditions (Harbinger)

Innovative design for superior handling

Harbinger’s EV delivery truck features a unique chassis design that places the heavy batteries within the frame, resulting in a much lower center of gravity compared to traditional medium-duty trucks. This innovative layout allows for powerful torque and superior handling, even for vehicles exceeding 13 feet in length. The result is a truck that handles more like a passenger car, even in challenging winter conditions.

EV delivery truck being tested in winter conditions (Harbinger)

YOU WON’T BELIEVE HOW FAR VOLVO’S NEW ELECTRIC SEMI-TRUCK GOES ON A SINGLE CHARGE

Rigorous winter testing

The winter testing program in New Zealand focused on several key aspects:

Braking systems: Harbinger thoroughly tested the truck’s overall braking system, including traction control, stability control, ABS and regenerative braking.

EV delivery truck being tested in winter conditions (Harbinger)

Torque control: Given the substantial torque capabilities of electric vehicles, a primary goal was to demonstrate a driver’s ability to maintain control on ice and snow.

EV delivery truck being tested in winter conditions (Harbinger)

The uphill launch: This tested the ability of the vehicle to climb up to a 25% grade.

EV delivery truck being tested in winter conditions (Harbinger)

Automated hill hold: This feature prevents a vehicle from rolling backward (or forward) when it is stopped on an incline, and Harbinger tested it in low-traction conditions with ice and snow. This feature is common in passenger cars but newly introduced in medium-duty trucks by Harbinger.

Edge cases: About 80% of the tests conducted were designed around 5% of use cases, ensuring the vehicle can handle even the most extreme situations.

TESLA SEMI’S IMPRESSIVE PERFORMANCE ON ICE MARKS ANOTHER MAJOR TRIUMPH

Key elements of winter testing

According to John Harris, co-founder and CEO of Harbinger, winter testing is critical for vehicle development, especially for EVs. It ensures that vehicles perform reliably on low-traction surfaces such as ice and snow. The focus is not only on typical cold weather driving conditions but also on less common yet important higher-risk scenarios. This is particularly crucial for EVs due to their significant torque output, which can lead to loss of control if not managed correctly on slippery surfaces. Systems like regenerative braking also need optimization for extreme conditions.

KURT’S PICK FOR REMOVING YOUR PERSONAL DATA FROM THE INTERNET

Specific tests for driver safety

Several tests can only be conducted in actual winter weather to stress test for optimal driver safety.

Low-adhesion surface control: Ensuring the vehicle remains maneuverable and stable on snow and ice.

Traction and stability testing: Validating traction control and stability systems under sudden accelerations, braking and cornering.

Regenerative braking on slippery surfaces: Testing how regenerative braking interacts with low-traction conditions to prevent skidding.

These tests help ensure that vehicles can safely handle extreme weather situations, such as when drivers stop steering or accelerating upon hitting a slippery patch of black ice.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

EV delivery truck being tested in icy conditions (Harbinger)

Battery performance in winter conditions

According to Harbinger, all battery-powered vehicles face challenges in cold weather due to two main factors: reduced battery performance and increased energy consumption for cabin heating. At low temperatures, the chemical reactions within the battery slow down, leading to decreased efficiency and power output. Additionally, electric vehicles require energy to heat the cabin, which further reduces driving range. Harbinger addresses these concerns by utilizing a multi-zone heat pump that efficiently provides heating for both the battery and cabin, thereby minimizing the negative effects of cold weather on performance.

KURT’S BEST HOLIDAY DEAL PICKS

Charging in cold temperatures

Charging an electric vehicle in cold weather is generally not problematic. Harbinger’s delivery trucks can be charged without issues, even in low temperatures, ensuring that drivers can maintain operations without interruption. While it’s important to be aware that charging times may be longer if the battery is colder, Harbinger conditions its batteries to the optimal temperature for charging, even when it’s cold outside, to mitigate this inconvenience.

Two EV delivery trucks being tested in winter conditions (Harbinger)

Accelerated development through year-round testing

Harbinger conducts winter testing in both the Northern and Southern hemispheres, allowing for year-round progress and faster technology development. This strategy helps bring Harbinger’s vehicles to market faster, meeting the growing demand for innovative commercial EV solutions.

TESLA’S ELECTRIC SEMI-TRUCK TAKES ON A DIESEL BIG RIG

Versatile electric vehicle platform

Harbinger has developed a versatile lineup of medium-duty electric vehicles, including:

• Walk-in vans
• Box trucks
• Recreational vehicles
• Emergency response vehicles
• Delivery vans

This versatility positions Harbinger as a crucial player in transforming the medium-duty vehicle market, which has long needed modernization and innovation.

GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE

EV delivery truck being charged in winter conditions (Harbinger)

Market traction and customer confidence

In May 2024, Harbinger announced 4,000 binding preorders for its vehicles. The orders are valued at more than $400 million. This significant market traction underscores customer confidence in Harbinger’s technology and vision.

SUBSCRIBE TO KURT’S YOUTUBE CHANNEL FOR QUICK VIDEO TIPS ON HOW TO WORK ALL OF YOUR TECH DEVICES

Kurt’s key takeaways

Harbinger’s successful winter testing of its EV delivery truck marks a significant milestone in the evolution of commercial electric vehicles. By combining innovative design, advanced technology and rigorous testing, Harbinger is proving that electric delivery trucks can not only match but potentially surpass their traditional counterparts in performance and reliability, even in the harshest winter conditions.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

What are your thoughts on the rise of electric vehicles? Do you see them as the future of transportation, or do you prefer traditional gas-powered vehicles? Why? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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

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

Follow Kurt on his social channels:

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions

New from Kurt:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

Welcome to Fox News’ Artificial Intelligence newsletter with the latest AI technology advancements.

IN TODAY’S NEWSLETTER:

– Get ready to build your own Lego masterpieces with this new tech

– OpenAI releases text-to-video AI model Sora to certain ChatGPT users

– The AI-powered grandma taking on scammers

Brick My World app  (Brick My World)

BUILD LEGO CREATIONS : This innovative app is here to make custom Lego creation fun and accessible for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned builder or just getting started. By using advanced artificial intelligence and mobile scanning technology, Brick My World opens up a world of creative possibilities.

‘OUR HOLIDAY GIFT’: OpenAI released its text-to-video artificial intelligence model, Sora, this week after the completion of its testing phase.

The OpenAI logo is being displayed on a smartphone with the Sora text-to-video generator visible in the background in this photo illustration, taken in Brussels, Belgium, on February 16, 2024.  (Jonathan Raa/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

GRANNY FIGHTS BACK: Daisy is an artificial intelligence-powered grandma developed by Virgin Media O2 to interact with scammers. When a scam call comes in, Daisy automatically answers and engages the caller in conversation, wasting their time.

‘I GOTTA FEELING’: [will.i.am doesn’t think true artists should worry about artificial intelligence. The Black Eyed Peas singer does think people not involved in the creative process in the music industry are the ones who should worry about AI taking away their jobs. 

Recording artist will.i.am speaks onstage during Day 2 of the 2024 Invest Fest at Georgia World Congress Center on Aug. 24, 2024, in Atlanta, Georgia. (Paras Griffin/Getty Images)

Subscribe now to get the Fox News Artificial Intelligence Newsletter in your inbox.

FOLLOW FOX NEWS ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Facebook
Instagram
YouTube
Twitter
LinkedIn

SIGN UP FOR OUR OTHER NEWSLETTERS

Fox News First
Fox News Opinion
Fox News Lifestyle
Fox News Health

DOWNLOAD OUR APPS

Fox News
Fox Business
Fox Weather
Fox Sports
Tubi

WATCH FOX NEWS ONLINE

Fox News Go

STREAM FOX NATION

Fox Nation

Stay up to date on the latest AI technology advancements and learn about the challenges and opportunities AI presents now and for the future with Fox News here.

Managing your inbox can quickly become a daunting task. Many of us find ourselves drowning in a sea of unread emails, making it challenging to stay organized. Dale from Lowell, Arizona, recently reached out with a common frustration:

“My iPhone 13; How do I erase multiple emails from my inbox? Deleting each one individually is time consuming and tedious. Currently 1900 plus.”

Don’t worry, Dale. You’re not alone in this struggle. Let’s dive into some easy steps to declutter your inbox. If you want to delete multiple emails at once on Android, here’s how to do it. 

GET SECURITY ALERTS, EXPERT TIPS – SIGN UP FOR KURT’S NEWSLETTER – THE CYBERGUY REPORT HERE

Mail app on iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

The Mail app method to delete multiple emails on iPhone

The built-in Mail app on your iPhone 13 offers a straightforward way to delete multiple emails at once:

• Open the Mail app
• Navigate to your inbox and tap on it
• Tap Select in top-right corner
• Select the emails you want to delete by tapping the circles next to them.
• For a quick selection, tap the first email, then slide your finger down the list.
• Once you’ve chosen your emails, tap Trash at the bottom right.

Steps to delete emails in the iPhone Mail app (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

BEST ANTIVIRUS FOR MAC, PC, IPHONES AND ANDROIDS – CYBERGUY PICKS

Bulk deletion: Tackling thousands of emails at once on iPhone

When faced with an overwhelming number of emails, try this method:

• Open the Mail app
• Navigate to your inbox and tap on it
• Tap Select in top-right corner
• Tap Select All at top-left
• Hit Trash
• Confirm your decision by clicking Trash All

Steps to bulk delete emails in the iPhone Mail app (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

MUST-TURN-OFF PRIVACY SETTINGS ON YOUR IPHONE IN IOS 18.1

The web browser approach to bulk deleting emails on iPhone

For even more control over bulk deletions, consider using your iPhone’s web browser:

• Open Safari
• Go to your email provider’s website and log in to your account.
• Look for an Edit or Select option
• Choose Select All or a similar function
• Find the Delete or Trash button and tap it
• It will ask you to confirm your decision by clicking Delete all.

This method is particularly effective for quickly clearing out large numbers of emails.

The web browser approach to bulk deleting emails on iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

HOW TO USE IPHONE’S MIC MODE FOR CRYSTAL CLEAR, NOISE-FREE CALLS

Set trash or archive as the default on iPhone

To ensure that deleted emails are automatically sent to your preferred location, follow these simple steps to configure your iPhone settings. This setting helps you efficiently organize your emails by automatically directing deleted messages to the appropriate folder, saving time and reducing inbox clutter.

• Go to Settings
• Scroll down and tap Apps
• Click Mail
• Click Mail Accounts
• Select Your Account

Steps to set trash or archive as the default on iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

• Scroll down to Account Settings and click it
• Then click Advanced
• Select Deleted Mailbox or Archive Mailbox to streamline your email management

Steps to set trash or archive as the default on iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

SUBSCRIBE TO KURT’S YOUTUBE CHANNEL FOR QUICK VIDEO TIPS ON HOW TO WORK ALL OF YOUR TECH DEVICES

Kurt’s key takeaways

Managing a cluttered inbox can feel overwhelming, but with these techniques, you’ll be on your way to a more organized inbox. Remember, it’s not just about deleting emails. It’s about creating habits that prevent inbox overload in the future. Consider setting up filters for recurring emails. By implementing these strategies, Dale and other iPhone users can transform their email management from a tedious chore into a quick and efficient task.

What’s the most overwhelming digital clutter challenge you’re currently facing, and how is it impacting your daily productivity? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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

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

Follow Kurt on his social channels:

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

New from Kurt:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

When it comes to updating apps on your phone, caution is key. Michelle from New Jersey recently reached out with a common concern:

“When you click on an app on your phone, and you get a message that it needs to be updated, click here, can you trust that this is legit? Or should you close out and go to the App Store?”

Great question, Michelle. App updates are essential for maintaining your device’s performance and security. They often include bug fixes, new features and security patches that protect against vulnerabilities. However, scammers have become increasingly sophisticated in their tactics, often using fake update notifications to trick you into downloading malware or providing personal information.

GET SECURITY ALERTS, EXPERT TIPS – SIGN UP FOR KURT’S NEWSLETTER – THE CYBERGUY REPORT HERE 

App Store icon on an iPhone  (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Identifying red flags

Being able to spot suspicious update notifications is crucial for maintaining your device’s security. Here are some specific signs that an update notification may be fraudulent:

1. Unexpected alerts from unknown apps

If you receive a notification from an app you don’t recognize, it is best not to engage with it. You should be especially wary of alerts claiming to be from system apps or security software that you didn’t install. To verify the legitimacy of the app, check your installed apps list to see if the app actually exists on your device.

For iPhone

• Tap the App Store icon on your iPhone’s home screen.
• Tap your profile icon in the top right corner.
• Select Apps, then tap My Apps to see a list of all apps you’ve downloaded.
• You will see “All” the apps currently installed on your device listed, and you can also see apps that are not currently installed by tapping “Not on This iPhone.” 
• When you tap on “Not on This iPhone,” you will see a list of apps that you have previously downloaded or purchased but have since removed from your device.

For Android

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer. 

• Tap the Google Play Store icon on your Android.
• Tap your profile icon in the top right corner.
• Select “Manage apps & devices” from the menu options.
• Tap on the “Manage” tab, then select “Installed” to see all apps currently on your device. You can also check for any unknown apps here.

Regularly reviewing this list of apps helps you stay aware of what is installed on your device and allows you to identify any unfamiliar applications that may pose a security risk. 

ALARMING RISE OF FAKE LEGAL REQUESTS: WHAT IT MEANS FOR YOUR PRIVACY 

2. Requests for personal information

Legitimate updates will never ask for sensitive data like passwords, credit card information or Social Security numbers. You should be suspicious of any update process that requires you to input personal details. Official updates are typically handled through your device’s operating system or app store, which already has your account information.

Fake iPhone update notification text   (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

BEWARE OF FAKE PARKING TICKETS ON YOUR WINDSHIELD WITH FAKE FINES 

3. Pop-ups asking to subscribe to calendars

Pop-ups requesting you to subscribe to calendars can fill your calendar with spam and phishing messages. Legitimate apps rarely, if ever, request calendar access through pop-ups during updates. Therefore, you should be cautious of any unexpected requests for access to your device’s features or data.

BEST ANTIVIRUS FOR MAC, PC, IPHONES AND ANDROIDS – CYBERGUY PICKS

4. Urgent or threatening language

Scammers often use fear tactics to prompt immediate action. You should be skeptical of messages claiming your device is at immediate risk or that you’ll lose data if you don’t update immediately. Legitimate updates are typically communicated in a calm and informative manner without using high-pressure tactics to rush users into making decisions.

A man received a fake update notification on his phone   (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

SCAMMERS EXPLOIT GRIEF WITH FAKE FUNERAL STREAMING ON FACEBOOK 

5. Unusual update sources

Be cautious of updates that direct you to websites outside your official app store. Legitimate updates for mobile apps are typically conducted through the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, which helps ensure that you receive safe and verified software. System updates should always come through your device’s built-in update mechanism, like the one below, to maintain security and integrity.

Legitimate iOS update   (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

6. Spelling and grammatical errors

Official updates from reputable companies are usually well-written and free of obvious errors. If you notice poor spelling, grammar or formatting in an update notification, it can be a sign of a hastily created scam.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

7. Unexpected permissions requests

If an update suddenly asks for permissions that seem unrelated to the app’s function, this could be a red flag. For example, a calculator app shouldn’t need access to your contacts or camera.

A woman scrolling on her phone   (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

8. Mismatched branding or visual elements

Pay attention to the visual details of update notifications. Scammers may use logos or color schemes that are slightly off from the official branding. Look for inconsistencies in font, styling or overall design compared to legitimate notifications you’ve seen before.

Tips for protecting yourself from fake notifications 

To ensure your safety while navigating app updates, here are some simple tips to follow:

1. Be wary of email and text alerts; protect yourself with strong antivirus software

Manufacturers will not send you emails or texts prompting you to update your apps. Always treat such messages as suspicious and avoid clicking on any links as they may contain malware. 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 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

2. Close the app and verify

If you receive an unexpected update notification:

• Close the app immediately.
• Open your device’s official app store (Google Play Store for Android or App Store for iOS).
• Search for the app in question to check for any available updates.

This method ensures that you are only downloading updates from legitimate sources.

3. Check your device settings

You can also verify if there are any system updates available by checking your phone’s settings:

• For iPhone: Navigate to Settings > General > Software Update
• For Android: Go to Settings > System > System Update.

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer

Regularly checking for system updates can also enhance your device’s overall security. Before performing major updates, especially system updates, ensure that your data is backed up. This protects your information in case something goes wrong during the update process.

4. Enable automatic updates

Most smartphones allow you to enable automatic updates for apps and system software. This feature helps ensure that your applications are always up-to-date without requiring manual intervention.

For iPhone

• Open the Settings app.
• Tap General.
• Select Software Update.
• Tap Automatic Updates and turn it on by swiping the button to the right.
• Go back to Settings, tap App Store.
• In the Automatic Downloads section, turn on App Updates by swiping the button to the right.

For Android

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer

• Open the Google Play Store app.
• Tap your profile icon in the top right corner.
• Select Manage apps & devices.
• Tap on the Manage tab, then select Installed.
• Tap the three vertical dots in the top right corner and select Auto-update apps.
• Choose your preferred option: Over any network or Over Wi-Fi only.

GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE

Even if you have automatic updates enabled, it’s a good practice to manually check for updates periodically. This ensures that you don’t miss any important updates that might not have been automatically installed.

5. Verify sources

Always ensure that updates are coming from verified sources. Only download software from official websites or app stores to avoid malware and phishing attempts.

6. Monitor app permissions

After updating apps, review the permissions they request. If an app asks for permissions that seem unnecessary for its function, consider whether you want to keep it installed.

7. Uninstall unused apps

Regularly review and uninstall apps that you no longer use. This reduces potential vulnerabilities and keeps your device clutter-free.

For iPhone

• Find the app you want to uninstall on your home screen.
• Press and hold the app icon until a menu appears, then tap Remove App.
• Select Delete App to confirm.

For Android

• Find the app you want to uninstall in your app drawer or home screen.
• Press and hold the app icon until a menu appears, then tap Uninstall.
• Tap OK to confirm the uninstallation.

SUBSCRIBE TO KURT’S YOUTUBE CHANNEL FOR QUICK VIDEO TIPS ON HOW TO WORK ALL OF YOUR TECH DEVICES

Kurt’s key takeaways

While keeping your apps updated is crucial for security and performance, it’s equally important to approach update notifications with skepticism. Verifying through official channels is always the safest route. By following these tips and staying informed about potential scams, you can protect yourself from cyberthreats while enjoying the benefits of updated applications.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

What specific measures do you think the App Store and Google Play should implement to better protect users from fraudulent update notifications? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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

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

Follow Kurt on his social channels

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

New from Kurt:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com.  All rights reserved.

Are you tired of scammers calling your phone, trying to trick you into giving away your hard-earned money? 

If so, you’re not alone. 

Many people are fed up with the constant barrage of fraudulent calls and messages. But what if you could fight back in a fun and creative way? Enter the world of scambaiting, where people waste scammers’ time and resources instead of falling for their tricks.

GET SECURITY ALERTS, EXPERT TIPS — SIGN UP FOR KURT’S NEWSLETTER — THE CYBERGUY REPORT HERE

Computer-generated AI-grandma taking on scammers. (Virgin Media O2)

What is scambaiting?

Scambaiting is when someone interacts with a scammer to waste their time and resources. Some of these online experiences are entertaining and even hilarious to watch. Instead of falling for their sneaky tricks, scambaiters play along, knowing it’s a scam, and take on the role of a potential victim to keep the scammers busy. But get this — there’s now some new technology to do the scambaiting for you.

A woman frustrated by a call from a scammer. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

TOP 10 ROBOCALL HOTSPOTS IN AMERICA

Why scambaiting matters

So, why should we care about scambaiting? This creative strategy offers several compelling benefits. First and foremost, it effectively wastes scammers’ time. Every minute they spend on the phone with Daisy is a minute they can’t use to target real victims. By keeping them occupied, we can potentially prevent them from scamming someone else.

In addition to wasting time, scambaiting raises awareness about common scams. It serves as an educational tool, helping others recognize and avoid falling prey to similar tactics. The more people understand how these scams operate, the less likely they are to become victims. Moreover, watching scammers get flustered sheds light on the lengths these criminals will go to and highlights the importance of staying vigilant against their schemes.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

A woman on a phone call with a scammer. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

HOW TO GET RID OF ROBOCALLS WITH APPS AND DATA REMOVAL SERVICES

The AI-powered grandma taking on scammers

“Hello there! I’m just trying to understand how this prize works. Can you explain it again? I’m not as tech-savvy as I used to be?”

That’s Daisy, an artificial intelligence-powered grandma developed by Virgin Media O2 to interact with scammers. When a scam call comes in, Daisy automatically answers and engages the caller in conversation, wasting their time. With her friendly personality and quick thinking, she keeps them on the line while gathering useful information about their tactics. Daisy combines various AI models that work together to listen and respond to fraudulent calls instantaneously. She’s so lifelike that she has successfully kept numerous fraudsters on calls for 40 minutes at a time. By tricking the criminals into thinking they were defrauding a real person and playing on scammers’ biases about older people, Daisy has prevented them from targeting real victims.

Now, before you get too excited, Daisy is currently only available for customers of Virgin Media O2 in the U.K., but other companies in the U.S. are beginning to offer similar AI-driven solutions. For instance, Apate.ai has developed AI.Callee, which engages scammers in real-time conversations across various channels. Another U.S. company, Scamnetic, has launched an AI-based scam-detection solution that can be integrated into enterprise platforms to protect consumers from various types of scams.

GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE

Computer-generated AI-grandma taking on scammers. (Virgin Media O2)

END OF ANNOYING ROBOCALLS? FTC CRACKS DOWN ON DECEPTIVE PRACTICES

Protecting yourself from robocall scams

While scambaiting can be a fun way to fight back against scams, the best defense is simply not picking up and answering scam calls in the first place. One effective strategy is to consider investing in personal data removal services that wipe your information from public databases on the internet. By reducing your digital footprint, you can make it more difficult for scammers to contact you in the first place. While no service promises to remove all your data from the internet, having a removal service is great if you want to constantly monitor and automate the process of removing your information from hundreds of sites continuously over a longer period of time. 

Check out my top picks for data removal services here.

Kurt’s key takeaways

The introduction of AI-powered scambaiters like Daisy marks a new era in the fight against fraud. While it’s entertaining to imagine scammers being outwitted by a chatty AI grandma, it’s important to remember that the ultimate goal is to protect vulnerable individuals from falling victim to these schemes. As technology evolves, so do the tactics of scammers, making it crucial for everyone to stay informed and vigilant. Whether it’s Daisy keeping scammers occupied or individuals taking steps to protect their personal information, every effort counts in the ongoing battle against fraud.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Would you consider trying scambaiting or using AI technology to fight back against scammers, and what are your thoughts on these innovative approaches to protecting yourself from fraud? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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

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

Follow Kurt on his social channels:

Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:

New from Kurt:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.