Happy New Year 2025

Category: Technology

How to not fall in love with AI-powered romance scammers
“Love is blind” takes on a more sinister meaning when so-called artificial intelligence (AI) becomes a tool for exploiting our deepest human emotions.

Convincing AI technologies are increasingly targeting mature online daters, turning fantasies into lucrative and dangerous criminal enterprises.

Illustration of a romance scam (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

AI is helping criminals create convincing personas

Romance scams have become the most common type of fraud in 2025 and have swindled would-be lovers out of over $1.3 billion in the United States alone. Just last year, the world heard the cautionary tale of a 53-year-old French woman who lost $850,000 to a convincing AI deepfake of Brad Pitt.

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The scammers had wooed her for over 8 months with realistic (yet fake) images, voice calls, videos and even multiple social media accounts. Similarly, a 67-year-old from San Diego was tricked out of her life savings when an AI impostor gang posed as Keanu Reeves, also raising awareness about romance scams impacting the elderly. The worst side of both stories is that the fraudsters haven’t been caught, and the victims’ financial institutions did little to help them recover their funds.

Illustration of a romance scam (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Can you really blame the victims for ‘falling for it’?

AI-powered romance scams have become far more sophisticated than “traditional” scams. Criminals use a variety of AI tools together with advanced tactics to create deeply personalized and remarkably realistic digital identities. Unlike traditional scams relying on generic scripts, these AI-powered approaches can generate nuanced, contextually appropriate conversations that adapt in real time to victims’ emotional state and personal background. In short, romance scams have become so dangerous because they use multiple advanced methods.
- They use your personal data to identify psychological vulnerabilities through conversational analysis. They might know your friends’ names, your job, interests or personal details.
- They deploy targeted emotional manipulation techniques that are unique to each person they target.
- They create dynamic, seemingly personal storylines that incrementally build trust and “remember” details about conversations.
AI-driven romance conversations are increasingly challenging for both victims and traditional anti-fraud mechanisms to detect. Spotting and preventing these scams can be tricky, but privacy experts recommend some tried-and-true ways.

Illustration of a romance scam (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Here’s how you can spot the red flags of a romance scam

Spotting and preventing these sophisticated AI-driven scams can be tricky, but staying informed can help you avoid becoming a victim. By being vigilant, verifying identities and recognizing red flags, you can navigate online dating safely while protecting your finances and personal information. Here are some things to look out for:
- Too much love. They “love-bomb” too early in conversations
- They’re too perfect or too tailored to you in their background, job history or personal details. Fraudsters often present the perfect picture of what you want and avoid disagreeing with you
- They avoid in-person meetings and/or have convincing excuses for why they can’t meet or have a video call
- They lack real reactions. While AI-powered deepfakes are convincing, they still struggle to react naturally to more human interactions: jokes, surprises, exclamations, throat-clearing, coughing, etc.
- Demanding money early, especially for family emergencies, medical events or business ideas. Never send money transfers, gift cards or financial information to someone you have not met in person
Illustration of a romance scam (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

STOP THESE V-DAY SCAMS BEFORE THEY BREAK YOUR HEART AND YOUR BANK ACCOUNT

What to do if you think it might be a scam
- Ask a friend or family member: Getting an outside perspective can help you see warning signs you might have overlooked
- Report the profile or scammer: Online dating apps and social media have built-in reporting features to warn against fraud. If the account disappears soon after your report, it’s likely that the account was fake. If you think you’re a victim of scamming, go to the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) website here and report the scammer. The steps for reporting a scam are pretty straightforward, and the FTC will immediately send out alerts to law enforcement to help with investigating the scammers. You can also contact the Better Business Bureau and file a report with them 24/7
- Contact your bank: If you sent money to the scammer and want to get it back, you should immediately contact your bank or credit/debit card company and report it as fraud. The representatives will then walk you through the steps to get your money reimbursed
WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?
- Contact the gift card company: If you sent a gift card to the scammer, make sure you keep the receipt and report the scam to the gift card company. The representatives there may be able to help you, and it will also help them be aware of scammers using their gift cards for fraud
- Visit IdentityTheft.gov: If you gave out personal information like a Social Security number, follow the steps at IdentityTheft.gov. You’ll be able to make a report there, and the website will help you create a recovery plan and walk you through each step of gaining your identity back
- Use Identity theft protection: If you want a service that will walk you through every step of the reporting and recovery process, one of the best things you can do to protect yourself from this type of fraud is to subscribe to an identity theft service. 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. One of the best parts of identity theft protection services, is that they have identity theft insurance of up to $1 million to cover losses and legal fees and a white-glove fraud resolution team where a U.S.-based case manager helps you recover any losses. See my tips and best picks on how to protect yourself from identity theft
- Have strong antivirus software on all your devices: This story is also another reminder to always have good antivirus software running on your devices, as romance scams can also entail email and text communications asking the victim to click a link. The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices
Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson offers his advice to avoid romance scams. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Make it difficult for a romance scammer to target you

Your personal information is a scammer’s best tool. This includes your phone number, email and other contact details that allow them to reach you, as well as information like the celebrities you follow, your family members and even the type of content you engage with online to tailor the perfect attack. As scams become more sophisticated and reliant on loads of data, it’s more important than ever to take proactive measures to safeguard your personal information.

1. Vigilance in online dating: In the digital world, not everyone is who they claim to be. Be wary of potential romantic interests who ask for money or gifts or those who want to move the relationship along too quickly. Keep your personal and financial information private and never share it with someone you haven’t met in person.

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2. Verify the identity: Request additional information or proof to verify their identity, such as video chatting or meeting in person if possible. Exercise caution before getting emotionally invested in someone you haven’t met in real life.

3. Research and verify: Conduct an online search using the person’s name, email address or phone number to see if any suspicious or fraudulent activities are associated with them. Reverse image search their profile pictures to check if they are stolen from elsewhere on the internet. You can also reverse-search their phone number for free by following the instructions found here.

4. Privacy settings: Keep your social media profiles private so only those you trust can see what’s going on in your life.

5. Limit sharing: Adjust the privacy settings on all of your online accounts and apps to limit data collection and sharing.

6. Use reputable dating platforms: Stick to well-known and reputable dating websites or apps with security measures to help protect their users from scams. These platforms often have guidelines for safe online dating and report suspicious users.

7. Invest in personal information removal services: I highly recommend you remove your personal information that can be found on various people search sites across the web. If you give someone your email address or phone number, they could potentially reverse-search your information and get your home address. Check out my top picks for data removal services here.

Kurt’s key takeaways

AI-powered romance scams have become a serious threat, exploiting our deepest emotions for financial gain. As you navigate the digital dating landscape, it’s crucial to stay vigilant and protect yourself from these sophisticated schemes. Remember, if something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your instincts, take things slow and always prioritize your safety and financial well-being.

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How has the rise of AI-powered romance scams changed your approach to online dating or your views on digital relationships? 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.

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Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

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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.
February 12, 2025
How to delete multiple text messages on a Mac and iPad
Are you overwhelmed by the sheer volume of text messages cluttering your Mac or iPad? You’re not alone.

Many users find themselves endlessly scrolling through conversations, searching for important information or simply trying to declutter their digital space.

Fortunately, Apple has provided ways to manage your messages more efficiently. Let’s dive into how you can delete multiple messages on both your Mac and iPad, helping you regain control of your messaging app. Here are steps to bulk delete text messages on an iPhone or an Android.

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Mac and iPad (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Deleting entire conversations from various people on a Mac

If you’re using a Mac, follow these steps to delete multiple messages at once:
- Launch the Messages app on your Mac
Steps to delete entire conversations on a Mac (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
- Hold down the Command (Cmd) key and click on each text message you want to remove. This allows you to select multiple messages simultaneously
- Once you’ve selected all the desired messages, click Conversation in the upper left
- Scroll down and click Delete Conversations
Steps to delete entire conversations on a Mac (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
- If prompted, confirm the deletion by clicking Delete
Steps to delete entire conversations on a Mac (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Deleting multiple text messages within a conversation on a Mac

If you’re using a Mac, follow these steps to delete multiple messages within a conversation at once:
- Launch the Messages app on your Mac
Steps to delete multiple text messages within a conversation on a Mac (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
- Open the conversation containing the messages you want to delete
- Hold down the Command (Cmd) key and click on each message you want to remove. The messages will turn a dark gray color. This allows you to select multiple messages simultaneously
- Once you’ve selected all the desired messages, press the Delete key on your keyboard
Steps to delete multiple text messages within a conversation on a Mac (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
- If prompted, confirm the deletion by clicking Delete
Steps to delete multiple text messages within a conversation on a Mac (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

This method is particularly useful when you need to remove several messages from a lengthy conversation without deleting the entire thread.

HOW TO KNOW WHEN IT’S TIME TO REPLACE YOUR MAC

Deleting entire conversations from various people on iPad
- Open the Messages app on your iPad
Steps to delete entire conversations from various people on iPad (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
- In the main conversation list, find the conversations you want to delete
- Tap Edit in the top-left corner
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Steps to delete entire conversations from various people on iPad (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Steps to delete entire conversations from various people on iPad (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
- Tap the checkbox next to each conversation you want to delete
- Tap the Delete button in the bottom-right corner
Steps to delete entire conversations from various people on iPad (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
- Confirm the deletion when prompted by clicking Delete
Steps to delete entire conversations from various people on iPad (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Deleting multiple messages within a conversation on an iPad
- Open the Messages app on your iPad
- Tap the conversation containing the messages you want to delete
- Touch and hold a message bubble until the context menu appears
- Tap More... from the menu
- Select multiple messages by tapping the checkboxes next to each message bubble
- Tap the Trash icon (bottom-left corner) after selecting your messages
- Confirm the deletion when prompted
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How to set up automatic message deletion on a Mac

To prevent future clutter, consider setting up automatic message deletion:
- On your Mac, open Messages
- Go to Messages
- Click Settings
- Tap General
- Click the Keep messages pop-up menu and choose a time frame (30 days or one year)
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Steps to set up automatic message deletion on a Mac (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

This setting will automatically remove older messages, keeping your conversations manageable.

Note: Deleting messages from your Mac does not delete them from other Apple devices unless you have Messages in iCloud enabled. To check if Messages in iCloud is enabled on your Mac:
- Go to Messages
- Click Settings (or Preferences)
- Tap iMessage and see if Messages in iCloud is enabled
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Kurt’s key takeaways

Managing message clutter can feel like a never-ending battle. While these tips won’t magically solve all your digital chaos, they’ll definitely help you take back control of your Messages app. A little effort now means less scrolling and more breathing room later. And hey, who doesn’t love a clean, organized digital space that doesn’t make you want to pull your hair out? Just remember, your messages are meant to connect you, not stress you out.

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Tell us the most frustrating digital communication challenge you have and how we might be able to help. 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:

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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.
February 12, 2025
Reset what you see on social media
You went down a rabbit hole and now gardening (or hot rod or political) posts are all you see online. Algorithms are smart, but they don’t know when you’re ready to get back to your regularly scheduled programming.

It’s time to reset your feed and take control of what you see.

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5-MINUTE CLEANUP FOR YOUR PHONE AND COMPUTER

Start with Facebook

Goodbye, annoying ads. It only takes a minute to kick out the things you no longer want to see.

The fix: Filter your advertising topics by going to Settings & Privacy > Settings > Account Center > Ad Preferences > Customize ads.

Random Facebook requests can end badly. This one lost a widow $40K.

The Facebook logo is pictured at the Facebook headquarters in Menlo Park, California. (Reuters)

Now, on to YouTube

Say your family is staying with you for the holidays and your niece is watching cartoons on your YouTube account all day long. Now that’s all YouTube recommends. Delete your search history to get things back to normal.

The fix: On the YouTube app, tap You to bring up your History. Tap the cog icon > Settings > Manage All History. At the bottom, you’ll see DELETE with a blue down arrow. Tap from the dropdown menu to delete videos from today, a custom range or all time. Click X to remove items individually, if you prefer.

10 TECH UPGRADES TO SAVE YOUR TIME, PRIVACY AND MONEY THIS YEAR

Going forward, turn off your viewing history any time you don’t want those vids in your algorithm. You can set your video and search histories to autodelete, too. Now your YouTube is back to how you like it, with my video podcast at the very top. You’ll love it!

TikTok tracks your habits

TikTok’s algorithm is built to keep you on the app. Every time you like, follow or comment on something, it tells the algorithm you’re interested in a video, and more videos like it will pop up on your For You page. Disliking a video or writing a nasty comment doesn’t matter, by the way; you still kept watching.

TikTok is pictured on a smartphone. (iStock)

The fix: Reset your feed. Open your Profile in the bottom right corner then press the three lines at the top right > Settings and Privacy > Content Preferences > Refresh Your For You Feed > Continue.

Fine-tune Instagram

Watch Instagram Reels instead? There’s no way to reset them, but you can nudge the algorithm in the right direction.

The fix: Tap the three dots in the upper right corner. From here, you can adjust:
- Posts: Select Hide to move them to the bottom of your feed.
- Stories: Tap Mute so you’ll no longer see them.
- Accounts: Choose either Restrict, which limits if an account can interact with you, or Block.
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Here’s the giveaway that an email from Instagram about your security is fake.

Most apps have this option

On just about every social platform, you can hide or see less of certain things. The more you take this action, the more you steer the algorithm.

The fix: Next to a post, video or anything else, look for the three-dot or three-line menu that opens more options. On YouTube, for example, tap the three dots next to a video and choose Don’t recommend channel or Not interested.

In this photo illustration, a YouTube logo is seen displayed on a smartphone. (Mateusz Slodkowski/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

Feeling inspired to clean more of your digital traces? Wipe your browser history while you’re at it. Here’s how.

Final piece of advice

Your social media feed is carefully curated based on who you follow, who follows you and, most importantly, what you do online. Sure, you can reset your algorithm, but don’t be fooled. Every post you linger on, like, comment on or share gets tracked and used to shape what you see next. Even just scrolling tells the platform what grabs your attention.

Before your next deep dive, remember: Big Tech is always watching, and your every move fine-tunes what pops up next.

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February 11, 2025
Don’t fall for that sneaky iCloud storage alert in your inbox
iCloud scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, targeting unsuspecting users with urgent messages about their accounts. Our team recently received two suspicious iCloud emails. We want to share our experience and provide comprehensive steps on how to identify and protect yourself from these scams.

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iCloud email scam (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

The anatomy of iCloud scams

iCloud scams typically follow a pattern designed to create a sense of urgency and fear. Let’s break down the two emails our team received below. Here is the urgent wording that the scammers used, “Payment Failure for iCloud Storage Renewal” and “iCloud Suspended. Fix it before Mon, 13 January 2025.” Both emails share common characteristics of phishing attempts, including urgent language, threats of account suspension or data loss, requests to update payment information, links to external websites and vague or incorrect account details. These emails are crafted to look legitimate, often mimicking Apple’s branding and tone. However, they contain several red flags that indicate they are scams.

iCloud email scam (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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How to identify iCloud scams

To protect yourself from falling victim to these scams, look out for these telltale signs:
- Check the sender’s email address: Legitimate Apple emails will always come from “@apple.com” or “@icloud.com” domains. The scam email address is not even close to that.
iCloud email scam showing the sender’s bogus email address (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
- Look for spelling and grammatical errors: Scam emails often contain mistakes that official communications wouldn’t have.
- Be wary of urgent deadlines: Scammers create arbitrary deadlines to pressure you into acting quickly without thinking.
- Verify account details: If the email mentions account information, check if it matches your actual iCloud details.
- Hover over links without clicking: This allows you to preview the URL and check if it’s legitimate, as in the example below, which, as you can see, is not from Apple.
iCloud email scam showing the URL preview being bogus (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Steps to protect yourself

If you receive a suspicious email claiming to be from Apple or iCloud, follow these steps:
- Don’t click any links or download attachments: These could lead to phishing sites or install malware on your device.
- Use strong antivirus software: Consider installing reputable antivirus software to help protect against malware. The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.
- Check your account directly: Instead of using links in the email, go directly to appleid.apple.com or check your device settings.
- Update your Apple ID password: If you suspect your account may have been compromised, change your password immediately.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): 2FA adds an extra layer of security to your Apple ID.
- Report the phishing attempt: Forward suspicious emails to [email protected].
iCloud email scam (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
- Invest in personal data removal services: 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.
THAT APPLE ID DISABLED MESSAGE? IT’S A DANGEROUS SCAM

What to do if you’ve been scammed

Follow these steps if you think you may have fallen for an iCloud scam.

1) Change your Apple ID password immediately: Ensure you create a strong, unique password that you haven’t used on other accounts.

2) Check for any unauthorized changes to your account settings or payment information: Go to account.apple.com and review any devices, personal information or security settings that look unfamiliar.

3) Contact Apple Support directly through official channels for assistance: Forward the suspicious email to [email protected] or [email protected] to help Apple track and block these scams.

4) Monitor your financial accounts for any suspicious activity: If you provided payment information, cancel and replace your credit card immediately and pay close attention to even small unauthorized charges.

5) Consider placing a fraud alert on your credit reports: Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission and Internet Crime Complaint Center to help combat these fraudulent activities.

6) Use an identity theft protection service: 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.

FBI’S NEW WARNING ABOUT AI-DRIVEN SCAMS THAT ARE AFTER YOUR CASH

Kurt’s key takeaways

Remember, Apple will never ask you to provide personal information, passwords or security codes via email, text message or phone call. If you’re ever in doubt about the legitimacy of a communication from Apple, always err on the side of caution and contact Apple directly through their official website or support channels. By staying vigilant and following these guidelines, you can better protect yourself from iCloud scams and keep your personal information secure. Don’t let the urgency of these messages cloud your judgment. Take a moment to verify before you act, and you’ll be much safer in the long run.

Have you ever been targeted by an iCloud or Apple-related scam? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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

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

Follow Kurt on his social channels:

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

New from Kurt:

Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.
February 11, 2025
Top translation apps for travelers

Traveling abroad can be an incredible adventure, but the language barrier can make even the most intrepid explorer nervous. The fear of being unable to communicate or understand signs and menus keeps many would-be travelers from ever leaving their home country. But fear not. With the rise of powerful translation apps, you can harness the latest technology right on your smartphone to bridge the language gap wherever your journey takes you.

I’ve tested out the top contenders to bring you my picks for the best translation apps for global travelers. Whether you have an iPhone or an Android, these apps have got you covered with features like live speech translation, text input and even AI-powered sign and menu translation.

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A man using a translation app on his cellphone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

The best overall translation app

Google Translate

Google Translate (Google) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Google Translate is the best translation app for most people. It supports the most languages, with 133 languages supported. It also features an incredibly user-friendly interface and design, and best of all, it’s completely free. There are multiple ways to translate languages with Google Translate, be it by typing text into the translation box or utilizing text-to-speech translation, and you can even take advantage of Google’s AI translator, which can translate text from photos that you take.

If you are using an iOS device, you can download Google Translate here. If you are using an Android-based device, you can download Google Translate from the Google Play Store here. Additionally, you can access Google Translate in your web browser from any device by going to translate.Google.com.

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The best free translation app for iOS users

Apple Translate

Apple Translate (Apple) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

If you’re an iOS devotee, you may have already encountered Apple Translate, which comes pre-installed on all iOS devices. This powerful translation app is one of the best available exclusively to iOS users, capable of translating written text and images of text and facilitating direct speech translation to help you converse with speakers of other languages. Apple Translate currently supports 19 languages, including popular options like Spanish, French, German, Chinese and Arabic, making it a valuable tool for planning international vacations or communicating while traveling.

Additionally, the Translate app is available on the Apple Watch, allowing you to access your favorite translations on the go. With its seamless integration across Apple devices, you can easily switch between your iPhone and Apple Watch for quick and convenient translations. Whether you’re navigating a foreign city or engaging in conversation with locals, Apple Translate is designed to enhance your travel experience.

HOW TO STAY CONNECTED NO MATTER WHERE YOU TRAVEL IN THE WORLD

The best translation app for professionals

Microsoft Translator

Microsoft Translator (Microsoft) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Microsoft Translator is a totally free-to-use translation app that is popular with business professionals. Featuring over translation for more than 120 languages, this is one of the most robust free-to-use translation apps. You can translate via text, spoken word or images with Microsoft Translate, and where the app really stands out is its ability to be used with multiple devices. You can create translation groups with Microsoft Translator and everyone can talk and translate together. The Microsoft Translator is available for both iOS and Android devices.

HOW TO SET UP FREE MESSAGING ON YOUR PHONE WHILE TRAVELING INTERNATIONALLY

The best paid translation app

iTranslate

iTranslate (iTranslate) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

With over 500,000 reviews on the Apple App Store, iTranslate is one of the most popular translation apps for travelers. It offers translation options for more than 100 languages, and its premium features make it well worth the cost of the app. You can use iTranslate for free, but you will be limited to just text translations. With the paid option, you can access both voice translations and text-via-camera translations. For those willing to pay $6 per month, users can save their translations and dictionaries offline, so you can use them from anywhere, even without service. iTranslate is available for both the iOS platform and the Android platform.

BEST GEAR FOR THE DARK OUTDOORS

Kurt’s key takeaways

There are a lot of different translation apps out there on the market aimed at travelers, and we highlighted our favorites today. While the majority of the apps in this list are free-to-use, and all the apps in this list have a free-to-use mode, you will need to pay for additional features from apps such as iTranslate.

What challenges have you faced while communicating in a foreign language during your travels? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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

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

Follow Kurt on his social channels:

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

New from Kurt:

Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

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

February 11, 2025
ESA’s space telescope Euclid discovers ‘astonishing’ Einstein ring

The European Space Agency (ESA) said Monday that its Euclid space telescope has detected a rare bright halo of light around a nearby galaxy.

Known as an Einstein ring, the halo was captured in photos encircling a galaxy nearly 590 million light-years away, which is considered close by cosmic standards. A single light-year is measured at 5.8 trillion miles.

While astronomers have known about the galaxy where the phenomenon was captured for over a century, they were surprised when Euclid revealed the bright glowing ring,

Euclid blasted off from Cape Canaveral, Florida on July 1, 2023, to begin a six-year mission to explore the dark universe.

GIANT STELLAR NURSERY REVEALED IN NEW IMAGES FROM ESA’S SPACE TELESCOPE

A sea of colorful stars and galaxies appear to swim in the vast blackness of space around a hazy halo at center stage. In the middle of the image, the fuzzy-looking bulb of light in a warm shade of yellow extends around a small bright spot, nestled within a thin light circle that appears to be drawn closely around it. (ESA/Euclid/Euclid Consortium/NASA, image processing by J.-C. Cuillandre, G. Anselmi, T. Li)

But before the space telescope could begin its survey of the universe, scientists had to ensure everything onboard was working properly. During the early phase of testing, which took place in September 2023, Euclid sent images back to Earth.

The ESA said the images were deliberately out of focus, but in one of the images, Euclid Archive Scientist Bruno Altieri saw what he believed was a very special phenomenon and decided to look at it a bit closer.

“I look at the data from Euclid as it comes in,” Bruno said in a press release from the ESA. “Even from that first observation, I could see it, but after Euclid made more observations of the area, we could see a perfect Einstein ring. For me, with a lifelong interest in gravitational lensing, that was amazing.”

For most of the population out there, an Einstein Ring is an “extremely rare phenomenon,” the ESA said.

POWERFUL WEBB TELESCOPE SPIES SPECTACULAR STAR BIRTH CLUSTER BEYOND THE MILKY WAY

A thin ring of a perfect circular shape and a piercingly bright white disc in its middle are the protagonists of this image. They stand out against a uniformly colored background of a hazy dark gray. (ESA/Euclid/Euclid Consortium/NASA, image processing by J.-C. Cuillandre, G. Anselmi, T. Li)

When a distant galaxy is observed through a telescope, the light from that galaxy may encounter another galaxy on its way to the telescope. When that happens, the foreground galaxy acts like a magnifying glass, and gravity causes the traveling light rays to bend. When light rays bend, scientists call that gravitational lensing, according to the ESA.

When the background galaxy, lensing galaxy and telescope are in perfect alignment, the image appears as a ring, also known as an Einstein Ring.

The galaxy, called NGC 6506, is about 590 million light-years away, and this is the first time the ring of light around its center has ever been detected.

“All strong lenses are special, because they’re so rare, and they’re incredibly useful scientifically,” Conor O’Riordan of the Max Planck Institute for Astrophysics said. “This one is particularly special, because it’s so close to Earth and the alignment makes it very beautiful.”

POWERFUL WEBB TELESCOPE CAPTURES PHOTOS OF ONE OF THE EARLIEST SUPERNOVA EVER SEEN

The text paragraph explains the principle behind the Einstein rings. (ESA)

Einstein rings are based on physicist Albert Einstein’s general theory of relativity, which predicts that light will bend around objects in space, so they focus the light like giant lenses, ESA said. The phenomenon allows scientists to sometimes see the light from distant galaxies that would otherwise be hidden.

“I find it very intriguing that this ring was observed within a well-known galaxy, which was first discovered in 1884,” Valeria Pettorino, ESA Euclid project scientist, said. “The galaxy has been known to astronomers for a very long time. And yet this ring was never observed before. This demonstrates how powerful Euclid is, finding new things even in places we thought we knew well. This discovery is very encouraging for the future of the Euclid mission and demonstrates its fantastic capabilities.”

Over the course of the mission, scientists expect Euclid will reveal more about the role of gravity in the Universe, as well as the nature of dark energy and dark matter.

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Euclid will map over a third of the sky and observe billions of galaxies as far as 10 billion light-years away, ESA said. In doing so, scientists expect Euclid to find around 100,000 more strong lenses, though finding one so cosmically close to home and so spectacular, ESA added, “is astonishing.”

“Euclid is going to revolutionize the field, with all this data we’ve never had before,” O’Riordan said.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Greg Wehner is a breaking news reporter for Fox News Digital.

Story tips and ideas can be sent to [email protected] and on Twitter @GregWehner.

February 11, 2025
Microsoft Teams is becoming a prime target for sophisticated scammers

If there is one corporation that is targeted by scammers more than anyone else, it is Microsoft. From customer support scams to impersonation and phishing attacks, the company’s services are constantly under threat. Recently, even Russia-sponsored hackers managed to breach Microsoft and steal sensitive information.

While Microsoft services as a whole are prime targets, one that stands out is Teams. The collaboration tool is used by more than 300 million people worldwide, making it a goldmine for attackers. Hackers are using it to spread phishing, vishing and quishing campaigns, relying on social engineering tactics to trick victims into sharing private and sensitive data.

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Microsoft Teams app on home screen of smartphone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

The rising attacks on Microsoft Teams users

Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting Microsoft Teams users with sophisticated attack methods. One such technique involves malicious GIF images that exploit worm-like vulnerabilities, allowing attackers to take over accounts and infiltrate chat sessions when the image is opened.

Hackers also insert malware-laden files into chat threads, tricking users into downloading DLL files that enable system takeover. Phishing campaigns leverage compromised accounts or domains to send deceptive invitations, luring victims into downloading harmful files.

Some attackers use email bombing and vishing, posing as tech support to overwhelm users with spam emails before tricking them into granting remote access. Compromised email addresses and stolen Microsoft 365 credentials provide another entry point for unauthorized access.

Plus, external access settings in Microsoft Teams, which often allow outside users to initiate chats or meetings, can be exploited if not properly restricted. Another common tactic is sending phishing links through Teams chats, often disguised as invoices or payment notifications, leading to ransomware infections.

A woman carrying a Microsoft laptop (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

9 WAYS SCAMMERS CAN USE YOUR PHONE NUMBER TO TRY TO TRICK YOU

Beware of fake jobs as well

Scammers have been running fake job schemes for a while, but their tactics keep evolving. Lately, I reported how fake job emails are being used to install crypto mining software that slows down computers. Now, they are using Microsoft Teams chat to trick people.

It usually starts with an email about a job followed by a suggestion to do the interview over Teams. The first red flag is that the entire interview happens over chat with no video and no call. After that, you are “hired” and asked to submit your details, often through a Google Doc requesting personal info like your social security or tax number. Some victims are even asked to buy equipment for the job, pay a hiring fee or purchase gift cards, which are classic signs that the whole thing is a scam.

A woman working on her Microsoft laptop (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

SPOTIFY PLAYLISTS ARE BEING HIJACKED TO PROMOTE PIRATED SOFTWARE AND SCAMS

6 ways you can stay safe from scammers targeting Microsoft Teams

1) Avoid opening suspicious links and attachments: Be cautious of unsolicited links or attachments, especially in chat messages or emails. Cybercriminals often use these to deliver malware or phishing links. Never click on links that seem unusual or come from unknown sources.

The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

2) Check for red flags in job offers: If you receive a job offer that seems too good to be true or involves an interview conducted entirely via chat with no phone call or video meeting, it’s likely a scam. Legitimate companies typically conduct interviews using multiple forms of communication.

A job offer that insists on only text-based conversations is a major red flag. Other warning signs include being asked to provide personal information through Google Docs, being asked to pay for equipment, paying fees to secure the job or purchasing gift cards as part of the hiring process.

3) Use strong, unique passwords: Ensure your Microsoft 365 and other accounts are protected with strong passwords. Consider using two-factor authentication to add an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access. Also, you might want to use a password manager to generate and store complex passwords.

4) Be cautious with personal information: Never share sensitive personal details, like social security numbers or tax information, through unsecured or unsolicited channels, such as Google Docs or messages on Teams. Always verify the legitimacy of such requests.

5) Report suspicious activity: If you notice any suspicious activity on your Microsoft Teams account or receive unusual job offers, report it immediately. Prompt action can prevent a potential breach or further compromise. Notify your IT department or relevant authorities so they can investigate and take appropriate measures.

6) Verify IT support requests: Be cautious of unsolicited messages or calls claiming to be from IT support, especially those asking you to install software or grant remote access. Cybercriminals often impersonate IT staff to deploy ransomware or steal sensitive data. Always verify such requests with your actual IT department before taking any action. If in doubt, contact your IT team directly using official channels, not through the message or call you received.

ENERGY-SAVING SCAM USES ELON MUSK’S NAME – HERE’S THE TRUTH

Kurt’s key takeaway

Scammers and hackers are not slowing down, so staying sharp is the only way to stay ahead. If something feels off, like a job that sounds too good to be true, a random Teams message with a sketchy link or an interview that is just a chat, trust your instincts. You should always be careful with external messages and invites that you to receive on Microsoft Teams. Even if it seems like it is from someone you know, it is best to double-check, especially if it involves a file, a link or an invitation to a chat you were not expecting to receive.

Should Microsoft be doing more to prevent phishing and impersonation scams on Teams? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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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.

February 10, 2025
Is your camera ticket a fake? Here’s how to tell

Suddenly, a red light camera ticket arrives in your mailbox bearing your name but you weren’t even driving that day. This frustrating scenario is catching many drivers off guard. So, what’s the deal here? Let’s break down these tricky fake tickets and how to fight back when you’re wrongly in the crosshairs.

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Example of a fake red light camera ticket (Highwayrobbery.net) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

The ticket that might not be a ticket

First things first, not all “tickets” are created equal. If you receive something that looks like a ticket but doesn’t have the court’s full address or phone number – or worse, it says “Do not contact the court” – you might be dealing with what’s cheekily called a “snitch ticket.” These aren’t real tickets at all but rather attempts to get you to rat out whoever was actually driving. The dead giveaway is usually that they will say something like, “Courtesy Notice: This is not a ticket.”

Example of a fake red light camera ticket (motorists.org) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

BEWARE OF FAKE PARKING TICKETS ON YOUR WINDSHIELD WITH FAKE FINES

Why are they playing this game?

Because cities often have to pay camera vendors for every ticket issued, whether or not they ever collect a dime. So, when the footage is too blurry to ID the driver, they toss out these “Whoops, was this you?” tickets, hoping you’ll do their homework for them. It’s basically a shady game of “Guess Who?” except you never agreed to play, the rules are rigged and the only prize is an unwanted fine.

THESE 5 FUZZ BUSTER APPS CAN HELP GET YOU OUT OF A SPEEDING TICKET

Now what?

If you’ve received a “snitch ticket” (a fake ticket designed to get you to identify the driver), here’s what you can do.

Ignore it: Since it’s not a real ticket, you’re not legally obligated to respond. Many people simply disregard these notices.

Don’t identify the driver: Remember, you’re under no legal obligation to name who was driving your car.

Check for red flags: Confirm it’s a fake by looking for missing court information or the phrase “Do not contact the court regarding this notice.”

Stay informed: Keep the notice for your records, but don’t let it stress you out. It’s not a legal document.

Remember, these fake tickets are just fishing expeditions. You’re well within your rights to toss them in the recycling bin and go about your day.

Example of a fake red light camera ticket (motorists.org) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

BEWARE OF THE NEW SNEAKY PARKING QR CODE SCAM

‘But it’s not me!’ – What to do

If you receive a genuine ticket (one with all the court info) but you weren’t the driver, you’ve got options.

1) Contact the police (optional): You can try calling the number on the ticket and explaining the situation. But beware, they might pressure you to identify the actual driver.

2) Stand your ground: Remember, you’re not legally required to identify the driver. It’s not your job to play detective for them.

3) Go to court: If push comes to shove, you can always contest the ticket in court. Just be prepared for some potential pushback.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Dealing with red light camera tickets can feel like navigating a legal minefield. The key is to know your rights, stand firm and don’t let anyone pressure you into admitting guilt or identifying others if you’re not comfortable doing so. Remember, the burden of proof is on them, not you. Stay informed, stay calm, and if all else fails, seek legal advice. After all, justice shouldn’t be a game of “gotcha.”

Has a “snitch ticket” ever landed in your mailbox? Tell us how you handled it by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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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.

February 10, 2025
Top 20 apps tracking you every day
If something is free, you’re the product being sold. This is especially true for most online services we use. For example, Google’s primary source of revenue is ads. They make money by collecting data about you and me and selling targeted advertising to companies, which then show us products relevant to our interests.

You might have noticed that the moment you search for a product on Google, you start seeing ads for it on Facebook. The same applies to apps like Instagram, Threads and LinkedIn. In fact, research shows that the apps collecting the most data about you are also among the most widely used.

Let’s look at the top 20 of them and explore how you can take control of your personal information.

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A man scrolling through his apps on his phone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

The most invasive apps you’re probably using

Apps collect all sorts of data about you, but let’s get one thing straight. Not all data collection is bad. Some apps genuinely need access to certain information to function properly. For example, Uber stores your location data to help you find a ride faster, while WhatsApp requires access to your contacts so you can send messages.

The real issue is data collection that serves no purpose other than showing you ads or selling your information to third parties. According to Marin Marinčić, head of IT Infrastructure at Nsoft, the top 20 most invasive apps collect data that is not necessary for their core functions.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

Leading the list is Meta with all four of its major apps. Facebook, Messenger, Instagram and Threads share 68% of collected data with third parties while also using it for targeted ads. LinkedIn follows, sharing around 37% of user data, with Amazon in third place, followed by YouTube.

What makes this concerning is how deeply embedded these apps are in our daily lives, making it nearly impossible to find alternatives or avoid data collection altogether.

The list also includes Elon Musk’s X at No. 5, followed by Uber Eats, PayPal, Uber, Google and Amazon Prime Video. TikTok, despite ongoing scrutiny over its data policies, ranks 14th. While many of these names were expected, one surprising entry is the mobile game Candy Crush, which uses 28% of collected data for ads. You can find the full list in the image below.

The top 20 most invasive applications (Nsoft)

THE HIDDEN COSTS OF FREE APPS: YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION

Looking for alternatives is the only solution

Avoiding data collection is nearly impossible if you use the apps above. The only way to dodge these invasive apps is to switch to apps that respect your privacy. While it may seem impossible to replace some of the biggest platforms, there are alternatives that collect little to no unnecessary data.
- For messaging, Signal is one of the best options. Unlike WhatsApp, it does not store metadata or share information with third parties. If you need a search engine that does not track your activity, check out these options instead of Google.
- When it comes to social media, Mastodon and Bluesky offer decentralized alternatives to Twitter.
- For those looking to replace YouTube, PeerTube and Nebula are worth exploring.
- If you shop frequently on Amazon, consider smaller online retailers or direct brand websites that may be less likely to track your every move.
- Instead of Google Drive, consider these solutions which offer cloud storage with strong encryption.
Switching to these alternatives may require some effort, but it is the best way to limit how much of your personal data is being collected. Taking control of your privacy starts with making conscious choices about the apps you use.

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Apps on the home screen of an Android phone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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5 ways to reduce data sharing

If you’re not able to delete the apps listed above, follow the simple steps below to minimize how much information is being collected and shared.

1. Review app permissions: Most apps request access to data they do not actually need. Go to your phone settings and check app permissions on your iPhone and Android. Disable access to location, microphone, contacts and other sensitive data unless absolutely necessary.

2. Turn off ad personalization: Many companies track your online activity to show targeted ads. You can limit this by disabling ad personalization in Google, Facebook, and other accounts. This reduces the amount of data collected about your interests and behavior.

3. Limit social media tracking: Social media platforms track your activity even when you are not using them. Adjust privacy settings to restrict data collection.

4. Avoid signing in with Google or Facebook: Many websites offer login options using Google or Facebook. While convenient, this shares even more data with these platforms. Instead, create separate accounts using email whenever possible.

5. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) and private browsing mode: A VPN hides your IP address, helping to obscure your location and online activity, making it harder for websites to track you. Combined with private browsing or incognito mode, this reduces the amount of data companies can collect about your online activity. Using a VPN service can also enhance your privacy by encrypting your internet traffic, making it harder for hackers and third parties to intercept your data, especially on public Wi-Fi.

While VPNs don’t directly prevent phishing emails, they reduce the exposure of your browsing habits to trackers that may use this data maliciously. With a VPN, you can securely access your email accounts from anywhere, even in areas with restrictive internet policies. 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

6. Regular app cleanup: Uninstall apps you no longer use to reduce passive data collection.

HOW TO REMOVE YOUR PRIVATE DATA FROM THE INTERNET

App-specific suggestions to safeguard your digital footprint

Protect your personal information across the popular platforms mentioned above with these essential privacy adjustments.

Facebook/Instagram/Threads:
- Disable activity tracking by going to Settings > Privacy > Activity Tracking.
- Turn off “Apps, Websites and Games” to limit third-party data sharing.
LinkedIn:
- Turn off ad targeting in Settings > Advertising preferences.
- Disable profile viewing history.
Amazon/Prime Video:
- Opt-out of personalized ads in your account settings.
- Limit sharing by disabling Alexa voice data storage (if applicable).
YouTube/Google Products (e.g., Gmail, Google Maps):
- Disable ad personalization under Google Account > Data & Personalization > Ad Settings.
- Turn off location history and web/app activity tracking.
Uber/Uber Eats:
- Use the app only when needed, and avoid storing payment methods if possible.
- Disable tracking after rides/deliveries are complete.
PayPal:
- Restrict sharing under Settings > Privacy & Security by opting out of data sharing for marketing purposes.
Snapchat:
- Disable location sharing via Snap Map and turn off ad personalization under Ad Preferences.
TikTok:
- Restrict personalized content recommendations in Privacy > Personalization and Data.
- Avoid posting unnecessary personal information.
Spotify:
- Adjust data sharing preferences in Account Settings > Privacy Settings.
- Opt out of tailored ads.
Roblox:
- Set strict privacy controls in the account settings, especially for children.
- Use a separate, disposable email for account registration.
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Kurt’s key takeaway

The best way to reduce companies from collecting your data is to remove invasive apps from your phone. Many apps request unnecessary permissions that can track your activity, so deleting them limits exposure. Instead of downloading standalone apps, try using the browser versions of popular social media platforms, as they typically have fewer permissions.

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However, web tracking still exists through cookies and fingerprinting, so using a privacy-focused browser like Brave, Firefox with enhanced tracking protection, or Safari with Intelligent Tracking Prevention (ITP) can further reduce data collection. However, some apps are so deeply integrated that replacing them is difficult. For example, if you use an Android phone, avoiding Google’s ecosystem is nearly impossible. Apple, on the other hand, offers more privacy controls, giving users better options to limit data collection.

Do you check app permissions before installing? How do you decide which permissions are acceptable? 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

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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.
February 9, 2025
Never lose cell service again with this space-age satellite tech

Imagine never being without a cell signal again, anywhere, any time on the planet.

That’s exactly what AST SpaceMobile is working to achieve. Founded in the heart of Texas in 2017, this innovative company is developing the world’s first global cellular broadband network that can connect directly to your everyday smartphone, no special equipment required.

Its mission? To ensure that no matter where you are around the globe — from remote mountain ranges to isolated islands — you’ll never be out of touch again.

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AST SpaceMobile message on smartphone (AST SpaceMobile)

A historic achievement

AST SpaceMobile made history in April 2023 by completing the first two-way phone call via space on an unmodified cell phone. This milestone was achieved using its low Earth orbit satellite, Blue Walker 3 (BW3), which was launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket in September 2022.

A woman using AST SpaceMobile on her smartphone (AST SpaceMobile)

IPHONE’S SATELLITE MESSAGING: A CRUCIAL LIFELINE DURING A STORM

Rapid progress and expansion

Since its inception, AST SpaceMobile has made remarkable technological advancements. In September 2023, it achieved a 14-Mbps data stream on the BW3 satellite. A year later, in September 2024, the company launched five additional satellites, BlueBird 1 through 5. The ultimate goal is to establish a constellation of 168 satellites, offering speeds up to 120 Mbps.

BlueBird 1 through 5 satellites (AST SpaceMobile)

IS YOUR PHONE READY FOR AN EMERGENCY? TURN ON THESE LIFESAVING SETTINGS

Partnerships and global reach

AST SpaceMobile has forged strategic partnerships with major telecom players across the globe. In the United States, it has partnered with AT&T and Verizon. Internationally, it has teamed up with Bell Canada, Rakuten, Vodafone and other telecommunications providers. These partnerships potentially give about 2.8 billion people worldwide access to its satellite network.

AST SpaceMobile strategic partnerships with major telecom players (AST SpaceMobile)

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Technology and manufacturing

AST SpaceMobile’s approach to satellite connectivity is uniquely innovative. It focuses solely on direct-to-cell service, distinguishing itself from other competitors. Its current BlueBird satellites unfold to approximately 700 square feet in space, with future satellites planned to be three times larger and offer ten times the data capacity. Impressively, 95% of its manufacturing process is completed in house in the United States.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

A woman using AST SpaceMobile on her smartphone

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Comparing with Starlink

While both AST SpaceMobile and Elon Musk’s Starlink aim to provide global connectivity, their approaches significantly differ. AST SpaceMobile is built for direct-to-cell service, requiring no special equipment for users.

Starlink, primarily a data-focused service, has only recently launched modified satellites for direct-to-cell capabilities. AST’s focus on unmodified smartphones gives it a unique advantage in accessibility.

Illustration of AST SpaceMobile satellites in space (AST SpaceMobile)

Potential challenges

Despite the promising technology, the company faces several challenges. The brightness of satellites like BW3 could potentially interfere with astronomical observations. There are concerns about possible interference with radio-quiet zones used for scientific research. The increasing number of satellites also contributes to growing space debris concerns.

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Illustration of AST SpaceMobile satellite in space (AST SpaceMobile)

Cost and availability

As of January 2025, AST SpaceMobile has not yet announced specific pricing for its services. However, given its partnerships with major carriers like AT&T and Verizon, it’s likely that the service will be offered as an add-on to existing cellular plans. The company aims to provide coverage to remote areas and eliminate dead zones, suggesting that pricing may be competitive to attract a wide user base.

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A man using AST SpaceMobile on her smartphone (AST SpaceMobile)

Kurt’s key takeaways

AST SpaceMobile’s innovative approach to global connectivity has the potential to revolutionize how we stay connected, especially in remote areas. While challenges remain, the benefits of ubiquitous communication, particularly in emergency situations, are compelling. As the company continues to expand its satellite network and partnerships, we may soon see a world where being “out of range” is a thing of the past.

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If universal satellite connectivity could solve one major communication challenge in your life, what would it be? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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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.

February 9, 2025