Are you feeling the pinch of those monthly bills? Well, you’re not alone. From internet and cellphone charges to utilities and security expenses, it seems like everyone’s looking for ways to trim the fat from their budget. But here’s the good news: You’ve got more power to slash those costs than you might think.

We’re going to dive into some clever tricks and insider tips to help you save big on your essential services. 

Whether you’re dealing with internet monopolies, considering a cellphone switch, navigating utility options or thinking about home security, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s explore how you can keep more money in your pocket without sacrificing the services you need. Ready to become a bill-busting pro? Let’s get started.

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A person cutting a cord. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

1. How to save more money on your internet service bill

Unfortunately, certain companies have a monopoly in particular areas as an internet service provider. In fact, some locations only have one choice of an internet service provider. Where there is more than one provider, use one company’s offer and pricing against the current provider. You can ask your current provider to terminate your service, and they will usually try to keep you as a customer by giving you discounts to lower your bill. Some companies, such as Spectrum, give you deeper discounts if you bundle your services and sign up for additional services, such as mobile or TV services.

While the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) has ended, there are still other ways to save on your internet bill. 

The Lifeline Program is a federal initiative that offers a monthly discount on phone or internet service for eligible low-income households. Although the discount is smaller than the ACP, it can still help reduce your monthly costs. Additionally, many internet providers offer their own discounted plans for low-income households. Companies like AT&T, Spectrum and Xfinity have programs that provide reduced rates if you meet certain income requirements or participate in federal programs like SNAP or the National School Lunch Program. By exploring these options, you can still find ways to reduce your internet bill and keep more money in your pocket.

A couple trying to save on bills. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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2. How to save more money on your cellphone bill

Gone are the days when you had to keep your cellphone provider if you wanted to keep your mobile phone number. Now, with a surge of new cellphone providers, there is no better time to save. 

While it is easiest to stay with your current cellphone provider, it likely will not save you the most money. Most cellphone providers focus their biggest savings on attracting new customers, not their current ones. You can use this to your advantage by moving to a new provider for huge cost savings for nearly identical provisions. 

Additionally, some legacy cellphone providers own smaller cellphone providers. For instance, Verizon owns Visible. The cost difference, however, between them is pretty stark, with Verizon often costing upwards of $70 per month, depending on the plan, whereas Visible starts at $25 per month for unlimited talk, text and data. 

If you’re looking for affordable cellphone plans, there are several providers that offer budget-friendly options without sacrificing quality. Companies like Consumer Cellular, AT&T, Verizon, Mint Mobile, Visible, Tello, Cricket Wireless, Boost Mobile and US Mobile provide a range of plans to suit different needs and budgets. For example, Mint Mobile offers plans starting at $15 per month, while Visible provides unlimited data for just $25 per month. By exploring these options, you can find a plan that fits your budget and helps you save money on your cellphone bill. Check out the top affordable cellphone plans.

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A person holding a past due notice. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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3. How to save more money on your utility bills

Depending on where you live, some states have deregulated the utility service marketplace, which gives the consumer a great advantage. If your state permits it, you will be able to choose between a variety of companies for your utility services. Most states publish the energy rates across providers at the beginning of the month. You can use this information to either lock down a favorable rate or switch providers. 

Extreme temperatures this year have led to higher electricity prices, especially during peak hours. To save money on your electricity bill, consider using less energy, finding out your electric company’s peak hours, programming your thermostat, investing in smart plugs and upgrading to energy-efficient appliances. These strategies can help you reduce your electricity usage and lower your monthly bills, regardless of the season. Check out the 7 best ways to save money on your electricity bill.

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An image of a security camera. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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4. How to save more money on your security bills

While there are many security services out there, the most cost-effective option is security systems you can install yourself. If monitoring services are included in the system, make sure to double-check the cost. Unless these systems offer low-cost monitoring services, it could end up costing you a lot more in the long run. Home security camera systems are available from companies such as Vivint, ADT, SimpliSafe and Comcast, complete with monitoring and a variety of packages and financing options. Check out our picks for the best home security systems.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Whether it is your internet or utility bill, there is always an opportunity to save more money. Comparing costs and calling your provider takes a little bit of work, but if you’re willing to make the effort, the savings can really add up.

What strategies have you found most effective in negotiating or managing your bills? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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

IN TODAY’S NEWSLETTER:

– ‘Alien: Romulus’ director defends AI version of dead actor’s likeness after fan backlash
– Nvidia is ‘one of best companies ever’ to adapt with market landscape: Adam Kobeissi
– Buy Nvidia between $95 and $104: D.R. Barton

Yaphet Kotto, Sigourney Weaver and Ian Holm, right, appear in “Alien.” (Robert Penn/20th Century Fox/Kobal/Shutterstock)

‘ALIEN’ RESURRECTION: Fans of the “Alien” franchise had a few concerns about the appearance of beloved actor Ian Holm brought back to life by artificial intelligence.

CHANGING MARKET: Kobeissi Letter editor-in-chief Adam Kobeissi said to expect volatility with AI-focused Nvidia’s stock, and that the dips are buying opportunities, on FOX Business’ “Making Money.”

Sen. Elizabeth Warren and progressives are taking issue with what they see as Nvidia’s outsized influence in the AI chip market. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

WHEN TO BUY: Woodshaw Financial Group principal D.R. Barton analyzes Nvidia and reveals when he would buy the stock on FOX Business’ “Varney & Co.”

NOT DONE YET: Rob Luna Wealth Academy founder Rob Luna discussed what’s behind Nvidia’s stock plunge on FOX Business’ “Making Money.”

Nvidia logo displayed on a phone screen and microchip and are seen in this illustration photo taken in Krakow, Poland on July 19, 2023. (Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

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Scammers are becoming more sophisticated in their attempts to steal your sensitive data. One particularly concerning trend is the rise of targeted phone scams, where callers possess just enough information to seem legitimate but are actually phishing for more details to exploit.

Recently, we received an email from James in LA detailing his unsettling experience with a series of suspicious phone calls. His story serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance in protecting our personal information. Here’s what James shared with us:

“I have received multiple random unknown calls (in the past two months), and they always start with the person calling me on the phone (listed as unknown) and providing my full name. Absolutely Correct. Then, ask if I am that ‘name, in (insert city). Then, when I say no, you have the wrong guy, they provide a birthdate and ask if it is mine, which, of course, it is Not. Then, they politely apologize, say thank you, and hang up. At that point, you realize that they never told you who they are representing. Maybe I’m paranoid, but it just seems strange.”

James’ experience is not unique. Many people across the country are reporting similar incidents, where callers seem to have a partial set of personal information and are attempting to verify or expand upon it. This tactic, known as “social engineering,” is a common method used by scammers to gain trust and extract valuable data.

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A woman talking on her cellphone. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Where scammers get their information

The mystery behind these creepy ‘Unknown’ spam calls often begins with data breaches or information leaks. Scammers obtain partial information from various sources, including public records, social media profiles or purchased data from the dark web. They then use this incomplete data as a starting point for their phishing attempts, aiming to fill in the gaps and create a more complete profile of their targets.

A man talking on his cellphone. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Understanding the scammer’s playbook

Let’s break down the tactics used in these calls:

Partial Knowledge: The scammer starts with some correct information, like a full name and city. This creates an illusion of legitimacy and can catch you off guard. However, they might be phishing for more details, like your birthdate.

Verification requests: By asking to confirm additional details like a birthdate, the scammer is attempting to gather more valuable personal information.

Vague identity: The caller never identifies themselves or their organization, making it difficult to verify their legitimacy or report them later.

Polite disengagement: The quick, polite end to the call is designed to leave the recipient feeling that nothing suspicious has occurred, reducing the likelihood of immediate suspicion or action.

These tactics are carefully crafted to exploit human psychology. The initial correct information builds trust, the request for verification seems reasonable and the polite exit leaves the recipient with a positive final impression.

A man talking on his cellphone. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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The dangers of information gathering

You might wonder, “What harm can come from confirming my birthdate?” Unfortunately, in the wrong hands, even small pieces of information can be dangerous. Scammers can use these details to:

• Build a more complete profile for identity theft
• Access accounts or reset passwords
• Impersonate you in other scams or fraudulent activities
• Sell your information on the dark web

Data is a valuable commodity these days, and every piece of personal information should be guarded carefully.

A woman talking on her cellphone. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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8 steps to protect your personal information

In light of the sophisticated tactics employed by scammers, it is important to protect your personal information. Here are some measures you can implement:

1. Avoid sharing information with unknown callers

It is essential to never provide personal information over the phone to unknown callers. Always use caller ID and refrain from answering calls from numbers you do not recognize. If you do answer a call, avoid confirming or denying any information the caller claims to have. Be particularly wary of callers who create a sense of urgency or use fear tactics to manipulate you.

A man talking on his cellphone. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

2. Verify caller identity

When you receive a suspicious call, ask for the caller’s name, the company they represent and a callback number. However, do not call back immediately; instead, take the time to research the company independently. Look up official contact information online and call that number to verify the legitimacy of the initial call.

A woman talking on her cellphone. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

3. Enable spam-blocking features

To further protect yourself, enable spam-blocking features on your phone. You may also consider using call blocking apps which can help screen calls and identify potential spam. 

Additionally, regularly updating your phone’s operating system will ensure that you benefit from the latest security features and protections.

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4. Report suspicious activity

If you encounter suspicious calls, it is important to report them to your phone carrier. You should also file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). If you believe you have been a victim of fraud, consider reporting the incident to local law enforcement to help protect yourself and others in your community.

A woman talking on her cellphone. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

5. Remove your personal information from the internet

To reduce your online presence, consider using a data removal service. While no service can guarantee the complete removal of your data from the internet, a data removal service is really a smart choice. They aren’t cheap — and neither is your privacy. These services do all the work for you by actively monitoring and systematically erasing your personal information from hundreds of websites.  

It’s what gives me peace of mind and has proven to be the most effective way to erase your personal data from the internet. By limiting the information available, you reduce the risk of scammers cross-referencing data from breaches with the information they might find on the dark web, making it harder for them to target you. Check out my top picks for data removal services here. Additionally, make it a habit to regularly Google your name and phone number to see what information is publicly available about you.

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6. Use an identity theft protection service

Identity theft companies can monitor personal information like your Social Security number (SSN), phone number and email address and alert you if it is being sold on the dark web or being used to open an account. They can also assist you in freezing your bank and credit card accounts to prevent further unauthorized use by criminals. 

One of the best parts of using some services is that they might include 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.

7. Secure your accounts

To enhance the security of your online accounts, use strong and unique passwords for each one. It is also wise to avoid using easily guessable information, such as birthdates, in your passwords. Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords. Also, enabling two-factor authentication wherever possible on your devices adds an extra layer of security.

8. Be cautious on social media

When using social media, review and tighten your privacy settings to limit who can see your personal information. Be mindful of the details you share publicly, as scammers often use social media to gather information. Additionally, avoid accepting friend requests or messages from unknown individuals to reduce the risk of falling victim to scams.

By implementing these comprehensive steps, you will significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to phone scams and identity theft. Remember that protecting your personal information is an ongoing process that requires vigilance and regular attention.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics, making it crucial for us to stay one step ahead. James’ experience serves as a wake-up call for all of us. It’s not just about being cautious; it’s about being proactively defensive with our personal data.

Remember, every piece of information you share, no matter how small, can be a puzzle piece for scammers. Your birthdate, your city, even your social media posts — they’re all potential tools in a scammer’s arsenal. But don’t let this paralyze you with fear. Instead, let it empower you to take control of your digital footprint. 

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By implementing the steps we’ve discussed — from being alert on phone calls to using data removal and identity protection services — you’re not just protecting yourself. You’re also making it harder for scammers to operate, potentially saving others from falling victim.

What’s the most unusual or clever scam attempt you’ve encountered, and how did you handle it? Your experiences could help others recognize and avoid similar scams in the future. 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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Have you ever wondered how our brave soldiers deal with nasty stuff like chemical and biological weapons? Currently, it’s a risky and time-consuming process. Soldiers have to suit up in cumbersome NBC (nuclear, biological, chemical) protective gear and spend about an hour decontaminating a single vehicle. It’s not just uncomfortable, it’s downright dangerous, putting our troops directly in harm’s way.

However, that’s all about to change because the Army is rolling out some seriously cool robot tech that’s about to change the game. So, instead of soldiers suiting up in those bulky hazmat suits to clean contaminated vehicles, they’ve got smart robots doing the dirty work. 

This new system, called the autonomous equipment decontamination system, is all about keeping our troops safe. Let’s look into how this new technology is revolutionizing military operations and making the battlefield a whole lot safer for our men and women in uniform.

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Autonomous equipment decontamination system (U.S. Army)

The threat of NBC weapons

Nuclear, chemical and biological (NBC) weapons have long been a source of fear and deterrence in global conflicts. While their use has been limited since World War I, the potential for deployment by rogue states or in near-peer conflicts remains a constant concern. Countries like Iraq and Syria have demonstrated that these weapons still exist and can be used, prompting NATO and other military organizations to conduct regular anti-NBC drills to prepare for potential threats.

Autonomous equipment decontamination system (U.S. Army)

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The challenges of decontamination

Decontaminating vehicles and equipment exposed to chemical or biological agents is a daunting task that poses significant challenges. The process is not only time-consuming but also extremely dangerous for the soldiers involved. It can take up to an hour and require the efforts of 30 soldiers, all of whom must wear cumbersome NBC suits designed to protect them from exposure. These suits, while theoretically capable of being worn for extended periods, can be uncomfortable and restrictive, making the decontamination process even more arduous.

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Autonomous equipment decontamination system (U.S. Army)

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Enter the robots

To address these challenges, the Army is developing the autonomous equipment decontamination system. This innovative robotic system utilizes cameras and a mobile platform to identify contaminated areas and clean them without putting soldiers at risk. By taking on the dangerous task of decontamination, the system promises to enhance safety for military personnel in the field.

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How it works

The autonomous equipment decontamination system employs a camera-equipped unmanned ground vehicle that scans the contaminated vehicle’s surface. As it circles the vehicle, the camera transmits contamination data back to operators who are safely positioned at a computer. A robotic arm then uses this data to apply a special cleaning solution to the identified hot spots. This approach not only protects soldiers from hazardous exposure but also conserves valuable decontaminants, which are often in limited supply during military operations.

Army personnel operating the autonomous equipment decontamination system (U.S. Army)

Soldier feedback

At a recent testing event called MSPIX (Maneuver Support and Protection Integration eXperiments), soldiers from the 1st Armored Division had the opportunity to operate the system and provide crucial feedback. Their insights will play an important role in refining the technology and ensuring it meets the needs of those on the front lines.

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The soldiers expressed their enthusiasm about the system, emphasizing that it allows them to remain safe while effectively managing decontamination tasks. They appreciated the user-friendly interface and the opportunity to communicate directly with the technology developers, ensuring that their requirements were taken into account.

Soldiers giving feedback on autonomous equipment decontamination system (U.S. Army)

The benefits

The autonomous equipment decontamination system offers several significant advantages. By keeping soldiers away from dangerous contaminants, it reduces the risk to human life during decontamination operations. Additionally, the system minimizes the time and soldiers required for these tasks, allowing military personnel to focus on their primary missions. Furthermore, by conserving water and decontaminant resources, the system enhances operational efficiency. What’s more, the ability to operate the system from a safe distance ensures that soldiers can maintain their safety while effectively managing potential threats.

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Autonomous equipment decontamination system (U.S. Army)

Kurt’s key takeaways

The development of the autonomous equipment decontamination system is a game-changer when it comes to keeping our soldiers safe from the dangers posed by chemical and biological weapons. By harnessing the power of robotics and autonomous technology, the military is not only reducing the risks to human life but also making decontamination procedures much more efficient. As this technology advances, it’s becoming an essential tool in modern warfare. It allows our military personnel to operate safely and effectively, even in hazardous environments.

In a world where the threat of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons is still very real, innovations like this are vital for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of our armed forces. It’s reassuring to think about how these advancements can help protect those who serve and keep them out of harm’s way.

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How do you feel about the impact of technology on soldier safety? Do you think robotic systems are the future of military operations? 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 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.