Meta is rolling out new protections aimed at making social media safer for young people. Last September, Instagram introduced Teen Accounts, which come with built-in safeguards that limit who can contact teens, what content they see, and how long they spend on the app.

Since then, adoption has been strong: 97% of teens ages 13-15 kept the default settings, and 94% of parents say Teen Accounts are helpful. Now, Meta is expanding those protections beyond Instagram. Teen Accounts are coming to Facebook and Messenger worldwide, bringing stronger safety standards to more of the apps teens use every day.

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Meta’s new Teen Accounts automatically limit who can contact teens online. (Meta)

Meta Teen Accounts bring stronger safety tools

Teen Accounts automatically apply safety limits, including:

• Restrictions on who can send direct messages.
• Filtering to reduce exposure to sensitive or harmful content.
• Time management tools to encourage healthier app use.

Meta says these measures address parents’ top concerns, giving teens more control while reassuring families that their online experiences are safer.

Adam Mosseri, Head of Instagram, emphasized the goal: “We want parents to feel good about their teens using social media… Teen Accounts are designed to give parents peace of mind.” 

Critics and researchers question Meta’s teen safety tools

However, not everyone agrees that these protections go far enough. Research regarding the effectiveness of Instagram’s teen safety features, as reported by child-safety advocacy groups and corroborated by researchers at Northeastern University (September 25, 2025), paints a different picture. The study found that only 8 of 47 safety features tested were fully effective, and internal documents suggest that Meta was aware of some shortcomings. Critics also argued that certain protections, like manual comment-hiding, place the burden on teens themselves rather than preventing harm upfront. They questioned whether time management tools were robust enough, giving some features middling grades despite functioning as described.

In a statement, Meta told CyberGuy,

“Misleading and dangerously speculative reports such as this one undermine the important conversation about teen safety. This report repeatedly misrepresents our efforts to empower parents and protect teens, misstating how our safety tools work and how millions of parents and teens are using them today. Teen Accounts lead the industry because they provide automatic safety protections and straightforward parental controls. The reality is teens who were placed into these protections saw less sensitive content, experienced less unwanted contact, and spent less time on Instagram at night. Parents also have robust tools at their fingertips, from limiting usage to monitoring interactions. We’ll continue improving our tools, and we welcome constructive feedback – but this report is not that.”

INSTAGRAM FRIEND MAP FEATURE SPARKS PRIVACY QUESTIONS

Parents have more peace of mind as they can add a guardian to the account. (Meta)

Meta expands teen safety with school partnerships

Meta is also extending protections to the classroom. The School Partnership Program is now available to every middle and high school in the U.S. Through this program, educators can report issues such as bullying or unsafe content directly from Instagram.

Reports receive prioritized review, typically within 48 hours. Schools that join also get:

• Access to educational resources on online safety.
• A banner on their profile signaling official partnership.
• Faster escalation paths to address urgent safety concerns.

Educators who piloted the program praised the improved response times and stronger protections for students. 

There are more protections for teens in the Teen Account than a normal account.

Meta launches online safety lessons for students

Beyond apps and schools, Meta partnered with Childhelp to create a nationwide online safety curriculum tailored for middle schoolers. The lessons cover how to recognize online exploitation, what steps to take if a friend needs help, and how to use reporting tools effectively.

The program has already reached hundreds of thousands of students, with a goal of teaching one million middle schoolers in the coming year. A peer-led version, developed with LifeSmarts, empowers high school students to share the curriculum with younger peers, making the safety conversation more relatable.

META DELETES 10 MILLION FACEBOOK ACCOUNTS THIS YEAR, BUT WHY?

Meta’s curriculum includes settings for children to stay safer online. (Meta)

What this means for you

For parents, Teen Accounts mean extra protection is in place without needing a complicated setup. Your teen gets safer defaults by default, giving you peace of mind. For educators, the School Partnership Program provides a direct connection to Meta, ensuring reports of unsafe behavior get attention quickly. Students benefit too, with a curriculum designed to give them practical tools for navigating online life safely.

At the same time, the pushback from critics highlights that there is still debate about whether these safeguards go far enough. While Meta insists its tools work as intended, watchdogs argue that protecting teens online requires even stronger measures.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Meta’s expansion of Teen Accounts marks a major shift in how social platforms approach safety. By adding built-in protections, the company reduces risks for teens without requiring parents to manage every setting. At the same time, the School Partnership Program gives educators new tools to protect students in real time. The online safety curriculum goes one step further by teaching kids how to recognize threats and respond confidently. Still, advocacy groups and independent researchers question whether these efforts are enough, and Meta’s strong defense shows just how high the stakes are in the teen safety debate. As teens spend more of their lives online, the responsibility to protect them grows. The real test will be how well these tools hold up against evolving online threats.

Do you think Meta’s new measures are enough to protect teens, or should tech companies do even more? Let us know by writing to us at CyberGuy.com/Contact

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You’re checking your financial account online, moving money or paying bills, when suddenly a pop-up appears. It looks exactly like your bank’s page, complete with logo and branding, but asks for details you’ve already provided. Would you know what to do?

This is the kind of situation Kent recently faced. He emailed us saying, “Two times this week, I had a financial account open, and I was doing transactions. In the middle of a transaction, up pops a box in the middle of a full page showing the company’s logo. Real, yes, looked as real as it gets. The first time, I fell for it. It asked for my email address to confirm, then my phone number. Sadly, I did. Then I saw about four or five seconds of a screen named CREDIT DONKEY. At that point, I woke up and decided it was a scam. I immediately closed down my computer and called the number on the back of my financial card to report it.”

Kent’s quick thinking likely saved him from even more damage. But what exactly happened here?

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DON’T FALL FOR THIS BANK PHISHING SCAM TRICK

A fake banking pop-up can appear while you’re making real transactions. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

How web injection scams trick you

This type of attack is called a web injection scam. It hijacks your browser session and overlays a fake login or verification screen. Because it appears while you’re already logged in, the fake page feels authentic. In Kent’s case, the appearance of “Credit Donkey” flashing on-screen was a red flag. Scammers sometimes abuse legitimate-looking redirects like this to convince victims they are dealing with their bank. The real aim is to capture login credentials or trick you into handing over two-factor authentication codes.

SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION PHISHING SCAM TARGETS RETIREES

Web injection scams aim to steal your login and security details. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Steps to protect yourself from web injection scams

If you ever find yourself in a situation like Kent’s, here are the most important steps you should take right away to secure your accounts and information.

1) Monitor your accounts

Check your recent transactions daily. Turn on alerts for logins, withdrawals or transfers, so you’ll know instantly if someone is trying to move money. 

2) Change your passwords

Update the password for any financial account that may have been exposed. Use a strong, unique password generated by a password manager such as NordPass. Next, see if your email has been exposed in past breaches. Our #1 pick, NordPass, includes a built-in breach scanner that checks whether your email address or passwords have appeared in known leaks. If you discover a match, immediately change any reused passwords and secure those accounts with new, unique credentials.

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

3) Remove your personal data from broker sites

Scammers often get phone numbers, emails and other details from data broker sites before launching attacks like the one Kent faced. A personal data removal service can help wipe this information from those shady databases, so criminals have less fuel for scams. Consider tools that automatically scan and request removal from dozens of brokers at once, saving you the time and hassle of doing it manually.

While no service can guarantee the complete removal of your data from the internet, a data removal service is really a smart choice. They aren’t cheap, and neither is your privacy. These services do all the work for you by actively monitoring and systematically erasing your personal information from hundreds of websites. It’s what gives me peace of mind and has proven to be the most effective way to erase your personal data from the internet. By limiting the information available, you reduce the risk of scammers cross-referencing data from breaches with information they might find on the dark web, making it harder for them to target you.

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

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

4) Enable stronger multi-factor authentication

Strengthen your account security with multifactor authentication. If your bank offers it, switch from SMS codes to app-based codes with Google Authenticator or Authy. These methods are far harder for scammers to intercept than text messages. 

5) Scan your devices with antivirus software

Since the scam appeared while Kent was logged in, malware or a browser hijack may be at play. Run a trusted antivirus to clear hidden phishing scripts. 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 & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com/LockUpYourTech 

6) Notify your bank in writing

Calling is smart, but also send a secure message or letter, so there’s a record. Ask them to put your account on high alert and require extra verification for any big moves.

7) Freeze your credit

Place a free credit freeze with Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. That way, scammers can’t open new accounts in your name even if they’ve stolen your personal info.

8) Consider identity monitoring

Services like Identity Guard can alert you if your Social Security number, email or phone number shows up where it shouldn’t. Identity Theft companies can monitor personal information like your Social Security number, phone number and email address, and alert you if it is being sold on the dark web or being used to open an account. They can also assist you in freezing your bank and credit card accounts to prevent further unauthorized use by criminals. 

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

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The bogus page asked for personal details before revealing it was a scam (iStock)

Smart online banking habits to stay safe

• Never enter personal details into a pop-up, no matter how real it looks.
• Always log in fresh through your bank’s official website or app.
• Keep your browser and operating system fully updated.
• Use a private email address for your financial accounts that scammers won’t easily guess.

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

Kurt’s key takeaways

Web injection scams are designed to catch you off guard while you’re doing something routine. Kent’s quick reaction to close the page and contact his bank shows how important it is to stay alert. With the right habits and tools, you can keep scammers out of your accounts.

Have you ever experienced a scam attempt while banking online? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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Cybercriminals continue to find new ways to target social media users, and Meta accounts remain one of the most common lures. Losing access to Facebook or Instagram can have real consequences for both individuals and businesses, making people more likely to fall for urgent security warnings. Attackers exploit this by sending convincing notifications that pressure you into taking quick action without thinking. 

That’s exactly what makes the new FileFix campaign so dangerous; it looks like routine account maintenance, but it’s really a trap.

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HOW FAKE MICROSOFT ALERTS TRICK YOU INTO PHISHING SCAMS

Cybercriminals are targeting Facebook and Instagram accounts by sending fake security warnings. (Fox News)

How the FileFix attack works

As reported by researchers at Acronis, a leading cybersecurity and data protection company, the attack begins with a phishing page that looks like a message from Meta’s support team, claiming that your account will be disabled in seven days unless you view an “incident report.” Instead of providing an actual document, the page disguises a malicious PowerShell command as a file path.

Victims are instructed to copy it, open File Explorer, and paste it into the address bar. While it appears harmless, this action secretly runs code that starts the malware infection process.

This method is part of a family of attacks known as ClickFix, where people are tricked into pasting commands into system dialogs. FileFix, created by Red Team researcher mr.d0x, builds on that idea by exploiting the File Explorer address bar instead. In this campaign, the attackers improved the trick by hiding the malicious command behind long strings of spaces, so only the fake file path is visible to the victim.

A hidden script then downloads what looks like a JPG image from Bitbucket, but the file contains embedded code. Once executed, it extracts another script and decrypts the final payload, bypassing many security tools in the process.

DON’T FALL FOR THIS BANK PHISHING SCAM TRICK

FileFix sends out fake alerts urging users to review their account security. (Acronis)

What StealC tries to steal

The malware delivered by this campaign is StealC, an infostealer that collects a wide range of personal and organizational data. It is designed to grab browser credentials and authentication cookies from Chrome, Firefox, Opera, and other browsers.

It also targets messaging apps like Discord, Telegram and Pidgin, along with cryptocurrency wallets such as Bitcoin, Ethereum and Exodus. StealC goes further by attempting to compromise cloud accounts from Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Azure, VPN services like ProtonVPN and even gaming accounts from Battle.net and Ubisoft. In addition, it can take screenshots of the victim’s desktop, giving attackers a live view of sensitive activity.

Acronis reported that the campaign has already appeared in several different versions over a short period, with changes in payloads and infrastructure. This suggests that the attackers are actively testing and refining their methods to avoid detection and improve success rates.

META DELETES 10 MILLION FACEBOOK ACCOUNTS THIS YEAR, BUT WHY?

StealC also targets VPN software and cryptocurrency wallets. (iStock)

5 ways you can protect yourself from FileFix attacks

To stay protected against attacks like FileFix and prevent malware such as StealC from stealing sensitive information, you need to combine caution with practical security measures. The following steps can help safeguard accounts, devices, and personal data.

1) Be skeptical of urgent warnings

Attackers rely on panic. Treat any message claiming your Meta account or other services will be disabled within days with caution. Verify the alert directly through official platforms rather than clicking links or following instructions from an email or web page.

2) Avoid copying commands from unknown sources

FileFix relies on convincing you to paste hidden PowerShell commands disguised as file paths. Never paste commands into system dialogs, File Explorer, or terminals unless you are absolutely certain of their origin.

3) Invest in personal data removal services

FileFix and StealC thrive on the information they can extract from a device or linked accounts. By using data removal services, you reduce the amount of sensitive personal information that can be found online or left exposed on old platforms. This minimizes what attackers can exploit if they manage to gain access.

While no service can guarantee the complete removal of your data from the internet, a data removal service is really a smart choice.  They aren’t cheap, and neither is your privacy.  These services do all the work for you by actively monitoring and systematically erasing your personal information from hundreds of websites.  It’s what gives me peace of mind and has proven to be the most effective way to erase your personal data from the internet.  By limiting the information available, you reduce the risk of scammers cross-referencing data from breaches with information they might find on the dark web, making it harder for them to target you.

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

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

4) Install reliable antivirus software

A strong antivirus software can detect malware like StealC before it fully executes. Many solutions now include behavior-based detection that can flag suspicious scripts or hidden downloads, helping catch threats even when attackers try to disguise commands as harmless actions.

The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe.

Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com/LockUpYourTech

5) Use a password manager

While FileFix targets stored credentials, using a reputable password manager reduces risk by creating unique passwords for every site. This way, even if one browser or app is compromised, attackers cannot access your accounts elsewhere.

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

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

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Kurt’s key takeaway

Cybercriminals keep finding creative ways to trick social media users, and FileFix proves how convincing these scams can look. A fake Meta alert may feel urgent, but pausing before you click or copy anything is the best defense. Relying on strong habits and security tools gives you the upper hand. Data removal services, antivirus software, and password managers each reduce risk in different ways. When you combine them, you make it much harder for attackers to turn a scare tactic into a real threat.

Should platforms like Meta do more to warn users about these evolving phishing tactics? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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With Microsoft ending support for Windows 10 this October, many people are racing to upgrade. Catherine, a longtime HP desktop user, shared her concerns with us: “I need to purchase a new/updated computer with Windows 11 pretty darn quick. I’ve utilized HP desktops for years and would prefer to continue to do so. My concern deals with transferring everything from one computer to another, made more interesting since my husband and I have separate setups and log-ins. I had a My Passport running, but now I believe a lot is in the cloud. We are concerned about losing our emails/contacts, etc. I also use various programs for a couple of groups I’m involved with (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Adobe Acrobat, etc.), which I cannot afford to lose. Any guidance for a smooth transition would be great.”

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. The good news: you can move everything to a new HP computer running Windows 11 with the right preparation and tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide.

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WHAT HAPPENS WHEN WINDOWS 10 SUPPORT ENDS IN 2025?

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 this month. (Microsoft)

What to prepare before you buy a new computer

Before you switch to a new Windows 11 PC, take these steps to organize your files, programs and accounts, so the move goes as smoothly as possible.

1) Inventory what you have and make sure it’s backed up.

• List the programs/software you use (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Acrobat, etc.), including any license/activation info.
• Find where your data is: local hard drive, external My Passport drive or cloud (OneDrive, Google Drive, etc.).
• Make sure you have backups of anything that’s only local.

2) Check how your email is set up.

• If it’s a Microsoft/Outlook/Exchange account, a lot may already be stored in the cloud. Outlook contacts/calendars may sync automatically depending on how your accounts are configured.
• If you use POP (email downloaded locally), or “local only” Outlook data (.pst files), you’ll need to move those manually.

3) Have your login accounts ready.

• Know your Microsoft account credentials (if you use one).
• Know admin passwords for existing software.

4) Gather license keys/software installers.

• For paid apps (Adobe Acrobat etc.), make sure you have install files or know how to re-download, plus activation keys.
• Make a note of any special settings or plugins you use so they get restored.

Choosing the right computer for your needs 

When choosing a new HP computer, confirm it runs Windows 11 out of the box. Pick a model with enough storage to hold all your files and plenty of RAM for multitasking. If you rely on external drives, make sure the new computer has the right ports, like USB-C or USB 3.0.

You can browse CyberGuy’s best laptop picks or best desktop computers for solid options at Cyberguy.com. If you mainly use your computer for email, browsing, or video calls, a tablet, Chromebook, or iPad might be all you need. They’re low-maintenance, secure, and often more affordable than a new Windows laptop.

WINDOWS 11 FLAW LETS HACKERS BYPASS SECURE BOOT PROTECTIONS

Windows 11 and Windows 10 operating system logos are displayed on laptop screens. Krakow, Poland, on Feb. 3, 2022.  (Beata Zawrzel/NurPhoto)

Step-by-step: Migrating to the new Windows 11 computer 

Moving to a new PC takes planning, but following these steps will help you transfer your files, programs and settings safely. This is especially important if you and your spouse use separate logins.

Back up everything

Start by backing up your personal files, documents, pictures and desktop to both your external drive and a cloud service like OneDrive. If you use Outlook, export your email, contacts, and calendar if needed.

• For POP or local .pst files, go to File → Open & Export → Export → Outlook Data File (.pst) and make a copy.
• For IMAP or Exchange accounts, confirm that everything has synced properly online.

Back up Windows and settings

Use Windows Backup or the built-in tools to save your settings and user folders. Apply the latest Windows updates on the old PC before making the switch.

Set up the new PC

When you turn on your new computer, sign in with your Microsoft account if you have one. This helps sync certain settings automatically. Reinstall your Office apps, Adobe Acrobat, and any other software using your license keys or installers.

Transfer data and settings

If both PCs are connected and supported, you can use Windows Backup’s “Transfer information to a new PC” option. Simply pair them and choose what to move. If that’s not an option, copy backups from your external drive or cloud storage onto the new computer. Restore email by importing your .pst file if required.

Verify everything works

Open your key programs to confirm licensing is valid. Check that your email, contacts and calendar are functioning correctly. Go through your files to make sure nothing is missing.

Set up backup and ongoing sync

Once you’re up and running, turn on OneDrive or your preferred cloud service to sync important folders like Documents and Desktop. Finally, create a regular backup plan using either your external drive or the cloud, so your new PC stays protected.

Common problems to avoid

Some users run out of space on their new PC because they underestimated how much data they had. Others lose email when they forget to export .pst files. License activation can also cause headaches if the software is tied to the old machine, so always deactivate before reinstalling. And remember that older programs may not work perfectly on Windows 11, so check compatibility in advance.

Tools that can help

• 3rd party software: Transfers files, settings and some installed apps automatically. For our picks, search “First 10 things to do if you got a new PC” on Cyberguy.com
• Windows Backup and Transfer: Free but may require reinstalling programs manually.

External hard drive backup: Still the simplest safety net for keeping copies of your important files. Copy everything important to your external drive as a safety measure before migrating.

MICROSOFT AUTHENTICATOR IS DELETING YOUR PASSWORDS

Experts recommend backing up your files to an external hard drive or a cloud service before making the switch. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

How long the process takes

Upgrading to a new computer isn’t instant, but knowing the timeline helps you plan your day. On average, you can expect the transition to take most of an afternoon. Here’s what it looks like step by step:

Choose and order your new PC: Browsing, comparing models and making the purchase usually takes one to two hours.

Initial setup and Windows updates: When the new computer arrives, the first startup and applying all current Windows updates can take another one to two hours.

Install key programs: Installing Microsoft Office apps and Adobe Acrobat typically requires about one hour, depending on download speed and license activation.

Back up data on your old PC: Creating backups of your documents, photos and email accounts usually takes one to three hours. The exact time depends on how much data you have and whether you use an external drive or the cloud.

Transfer data and settings: Moving files, Outlook .pst backups and Windows settings to the new computer often takes one to two hours.

Verify that everything works: Allow about an hour to test your programs, check your email and contacts, and confirm that none of your files were left behind.

Reconnect devices and tweak settings: Finally, plan for 30 to 60 minutes to reconnect printers, set up Bluetooth accessories and customize your desktop and preferences.

When you add it all together, the full migration can take anywhere from six to ten hours spread over a day. While it requires patience, completing each step carefully ensures that your new Windows 11 computer runs smoothly without losing important data.

Pro tip: Once your new PC is ready, don’t forget security. Install strong antivirus software right away. The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe.

Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com/LockUpYourTech 

What to do with your old PC

Once you’ve finished moving everything over to your new Windows 11 computer and confirmed it’s working, don’t forget about your old PC. Leaving files on it could expose your personal data if the computer is ever donated, recycled or resold.

Before repurposing, always perform a secure wipe to erase all personal information. This step ensures that sensitive files, passwords and documents can’t be recovered later. After wiping, you can safely recycle the device, donate it or set it up for light use elsewhere in your home.

For step-by-step instructions, check out how to securely get rid of your old computer before recycling, selling or donating it.  

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What if you’re not ready to upgrade?

Not everyone wants to switch right away. The good news is that Microsoft recently added two ways to extend Windows 10 support until October 13, 2026.

• Use Microsoft Rewards: Redeem 1,000 points to keep your Windows 10 system covered.
• Back up with OneDrive: Sync your files through Windows Backup and get extended support for free.

These options buy you more time, but remember: Windows 11 is the future. Planning now ensures you won’t be caught off guard when the final end date arrives.

Take my quiz: How safe is your online security?

Think your devices and data are truly protected? Take this quick quiz to see where your digital habits stand. From passwords to Wi-Fi settings, you’ll get a personalized breakdown of what you’re doing right — and what needs improvement. Take my Quiz here: Cyberguy.com/Quiz

Kurt’s key takeaways

Upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 may feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right preparation, backups and tools, you can make the switch smoothly and protect everything that matters.

Are you ready to upgrade before Windows 10 support runs out, or will you risk sticking with an outdated system? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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