NASA’s Perseverance rover may have stumbled on a visitor from outer space – a strange, shiny rock on Mars that scientists think could be a meteorite forged in the heart of an ancient asteroid.

According to a new blog post on the rover’s mission page, the rock – nicknamed “Phippsaksla” – stood out from the flat, broken terrain around it, prompting NASA scientists to take a closer look.

Tests revealed high levels of iron and nickel, the same elements found in meteorites that have crashed onto both Mars and Earth.

While this isn’t the first time a rover has spotted a metallic rock on Mars, it could be the first for Perseverance. Earlier missions – including Curiosity, Opportunity, and Spirit – discovered iron-nickel meteorites scattered across the Martian surface, making it all the more surprising that Perseverance hadn’t seen one until now, NASA said.

MASSIVE ASTEROID BIGGER THAN A SKYSCRAPER HEADING TOWARD EARTH AT 24,000 MPH

NASA’s Perseverance rover discovered a shiny metallic rock that scientists believe could be a meteorite forged in the heart of an ancient asteroid. (NASA via Getty Images)

Now, just beyond the crater’s rim, the rover may have finally found one – a metallic rock perched on ancient impact-formed bedrock. If confirmed, the discovery would place Perseverance alongside the other Mars rovers that have examined fragments of cosmic visitors to the red planet.

To learn more about the rock, the team aimed Perseverance’s SuperCam – an instrument that fires a laser to analyze a target’s chemical makeup – at Phippsaksla. The readings showed unusually high levels of iron and nickel, a combination NASA said strongly suggests a meteorite origin.

Mounted atop the rover’s mast, SuperCam uses its laser to vaporize tiny bits of material, so sensors can detect the elements inside from several meters away.

SCIENTISTS SPOT SKYSCRAPER-SIZED ASTEROID RACING THROUGH SOLAR SYSTEM

The shiny rock nicknamed “Phippsaksla,” discovered by NASA’s Perseverance rover, showed high levels of iron and nickel consistent with meteorites found on Mars and Earth. (NASA)

The finding is significant, NASA noted, because iron and nickel are typically found together only in meteorites formed deep within ancient asteroids – not in native Martian rocks.

If confirmed, Phippsaksla would join a long list of meteorites identified by earlier missions, including Curiosity’s “Lebanon” and “Cacao” finds, as well as metallic fragments spotted by Opportunity and Spirit. NASA said each discovery has helped scientists better understand how meteorites interact with the Martian surface over time.

Because Phippsaksla sits atop impact-formed bedrock outside Jezero crater, NASA scientists said its location could offer clues about how the rock formed and how it ended up there.

MASSIVE COMET ZOOMING THROUGH SOLAR SYSTEM COULD BE ALIEN TECHNOLOGY, HARVARD ASTROPHYSICIST SAYS

NASA scientists say the metallic rock spotted by Perseverance may be a meteorite formed deep within an ancient asteroid before crashing onto Mars. (NASA)

For now, the agency said its team is continuing to study Phippsaksla’s unusual makeup to confirm whether it truly came from beyond Mars.

If proven to be a meteorite, the find would mark a long-awaited milestone for Perseverance – and another reminder that even on a planet 140 million miles away, there are still surprises waiting in the dust.

Perseverance, NASA’s most advanced robot to date, traveled 293 million miles to reach Mars after launching on a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Station in Florida on July 30, 2020. It touched down in Jezero crater on Feb. 18, 2021, where it has spent nearly four years searching for signs of ancient microbial life and exploring the planet’s surface.

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Built at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California, the $2.7 billion rover is about 10 feet long, 9 feet wide, and 7 feet tall – roughly 278 pounds heavier than its predecessor, Curiosity. 

Powered by a plutonium generator, Perseverance carries seven scientific instruments, a seven-foot robotic arm, and a rock drill that allows it to collect samples that could one day return to Earth.

 The mission will also help NASA prepare for future human exploration of Mars in the 2030s.

The holiday season is the happiest and riskiest time of year to be online. As millions of us gear up for Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals, scammers do the same.

Every year, they target holiday shoppers with fake websites, “too-good-to-be-true” deals and scam emails that look identical to legitimate retailers. But here’s the part most people miss: scammers don’t just rely on luck. They already have your personal data before you even click “add to cart.”

From leaked email addresses to exposed phone numbers and home addresses, your personal information is being bought and sold by data brokers, companies that collect and resell detailed profiles about you. Those profiles are exactly what scammers use to send realistic “order confirmations,” fake delivery alerts and “urgent payment” texts during this holiday period and beyond.

Let’s unpack how this works and what you can do now to stay safe before the holiday chaos begins.

RETIREES LOSE MILLIONS TO FAKE HOLIDAY CHARITIES AS SCAMMERS EXPLOIT SEASONAL GENEROSITY

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Scammers ramp up fake websites and emails during the holiday shopping rush. (iStock)

Why scammers love the holiday season

November through December is a goldmine for cybercriminals. According to the CISA, reports of online shopping scams spike during this time of year and vary in their approaches. The reason? We let our guard down when we’re rushed, distracted or excited by a deal. Staying alert during the holiday season can help you avoid data exposure and financial losses. Here are some of the most common scams you should be aware of. 

Phantom stores

The surge of promotions during the holiday season is the perfect time for “phantom stores” to thrive. It’s a fraudulent store that mimics the interface and products of a well-known brand. Once you purchase from such a website, you’ll never receive your order as the store doesn’t actually exist.

Real-world example: Fake IKEA websites appeared with URLs spelled “ikeaa-sale.com” and “ikea-blackfriday.shop,” mimicking the official ikea.com interface with copied product images, logos and discount banners.

They lured shoppers with huge discounts and clearance offers to steal credit card data. Eventually, they were reported and taken down, but the damage has been done.

What to do? Always check the URL of the store you shop at and only click links from the store’s official website or social media.

Delivery scams

According to recent research, some of the most popular shopping apps like Temu are selling your location data to third parties. It’s no surprise that you might receive fake delivery texts.

Your leaked data fuels realistic “order” and “delivery” scams online. (iStock)

MAJOR COMPANIES, INCLUDING GOOGLE AND DIOR, HIT BY MASSIVE SALESFORCE DATA BREACH

Real-world example: Temu is a popular app for scammers to mimic. They can easily find your contact information and order details to text “Your order couldn’t be delivered.” Each text contains a phishing link that can install malware on your device or steal your personal information. That’s why Temu warns its users about the couriers they partner with.

What to do? Make sure the texts you receive come from a legit courier service and double-check it on the store’s website.

Fake order emails

Some scammers use sophisticated phishing tactics to lure victims. They engineer emails from well-known brands, use an urgent tone, place malicious links and urge you to click on your order status. In reality, there is no order status – they’re stealing your data.

Real-world example: Amazon is one of the biggest online retailers worldwide, and that makes the brand easy to mimic. Scammers send emails on behalf of Amazon to try to steal customers’ personal data because it’s highly likely that their victims have used Amazon, making it less suspicious. However, phishing emails have some telltale signs you can look out for.

What to do? Never click on any suspicious links and always check the sender’s contact information.

Unwanted data exposure

When you shop online, you should be aware of the data you share, including your contact information, shopping habits, credit card details and more. All stores collect some type of data about you. However, some companies collect more than you think.

Real-world example: The infamous Target controversy in 2012 revealed how big retailers use data analysis to predict your shopping behavior. The company collected shopping data and managed to produce a predictive model for soon-to-be mothers.

They sent out brochures with baby clothes, vouchers for baby formula and more before the customers even knew they were pregnant. Thankfully, modern shopping looks a bit different. You can opt out of certain data collection and exercise your right to remove personal information from websites that collect it.

What to do? Check what data the stores collect about you and request the removal of any private information you don’t want them to have.

THE TRUTH BEHIND THOSE MYSTERIOUS SHIPMENT EMAILS IN YOUR INBOX

How scammers find you

Imagine you’re browsing for gifts online. Within minutes, your activity generates data points – device info, IP address, browsing habits that feed into online databases. At the same time, data brokers already have your full profile: age, income, address history, family members and even shopping behavior. These profiles are sold to marketers and often leak into criminal databases.

That’s why scam calls, texts and emails often feel so “real.” They use your name, the right retailer, even your city. They’re not guessing. They’ve bought your digital footprint.

The “holiday cleanup” your data needs

Most people clear their browser cookies or delete old emails to “stay private.” But that’s like locking your front door while leaving all your personal documents on the lawn.

If you want to stop scammers from targeting you this holiday season, you need to remove your personal data from the source, the data broker databases that feed these scams.

That’s where a data removal service comes in. 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.

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

Practical steps before you shop

To make sure your online shopping season stays stress-free and scam-free, here’s what CyberGuy recommends doing this week:

INSIDE A SCAMMER’S DAY AND HOW THEY TARGET YOU

1) Run a privacy scan with a data removal service

Before the holiday rush, remove your exposed data from data brokers. You’ll reduce the number of scam calls, emails and texts you get this season and protect your financial info before it’s too late.

Take control by removing personal data from broker databases before you shop. (iStock)

2) Secure your email

Use strong, unique passwords for each online store or service. Consider a password manager to simplify this.

Next, see if your email has been exposed in past breaches. Our No. 1 password manager 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.

3) Check for fake stores

Before clicking a social media ad or email, hover over the link. Legit retailers use secure “https://” URLs and their exact brand name – no extra words or letters.

4) Avoid public Wi-Fi

Don’t shop or enter payment info over public Wi-Fi in an airport, café or mall, for example. Scammers can easily intercept unencrypted traffic.

5) Use credit cards or PayPal – not debit cards

HACKERS TARGET ONLINE STORES WITH NEW ATTACK

Credit cards have stronger fraud protection and make it easier to dispute unauthorized charges.

6) Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)

Turn on 2FA for your email, bank and shopping accounts. Even if scammers get your password, they can’t log in without your second verification step.

7) Keep your software and apps updated

Cybercriminals often exploit outdated browsers or apps. Update your phone, computer and shopping apps before the holiday rush to close those security holes.

8) Monitor your bank and credit statements

Check your accounts daily during the shopping season. The faster you spot a suspicious charge, the easier it is to reverse and protect your funds.

Kurt’s key takeaways

Black Friday through Cyber Monday is the peak time for data harvesting. Every purchase, coupon code and sign-up adds to the profile that marketers and data brokers hold on you. That information can linger online for years, long after the sales end. The good news? It’s easier than ever to reclaim your privacy. By taking just a few minutes today, you can enjoy the holidays knowing your personal data is no longer on the open market.

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How confident are you that your personal data isn’t already fueling a scam this holiday season? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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A major national security debate is unfolding, and it affects more than government networks. It touches your home, your devices, and the Wi-Fi your family uses every day. The Commerce Department has proposed blocking new sales of TP-Link products after a months-long review into the company’s ties to China, citing a growing TP-Link security risk.

Multiple agencies, including Homeland Security and Defense, supported that proposal. They believe the company’s connections could expose American networks to foreign influence.

Security experts warn that foreign-backed hackers have targeted home and office routers for years. These devices often act as silent stepping stones that help attackers move deeper into sensitive systems. When compromised, they can expose everything connected to them, including computers, smart home gear, military devices used on base and more.

This potential ban would be one of the biggest consumer tech actions in U.S. history. It comes as lawmakers raise fresh alarms about Chinese-made cameras, routers and connected home products sold on military exchanges and in homes across the country.

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CHINESE HACKERS BREACH US NUCLEAR SECURITY AGENCY IN CYBERATTACK OPERATION, OFFICIALS SAY

The proposed TP-Link ban stems from growing concerns that foreign-linked routers and cameras could expose American homes and networks to outside influence. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Why military families are even more vulnerable

Lawmakers from both parties say military households face extra risk. Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), who leads a bipartisan group of 23 lawmakers, warns that TP-Link cameras and networking devices sold on Army, Navy and Air Force exchange sites could expose sensitive footage from base housing and dorms. Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-Iowa) echoed that concern, saying these devices could act as a backdoor for Chinese intelligence to collect information on service members and their families. Even when products appear out of stock, officials worry they remain popular in military communities.

These lawmakers say Chinese laws could force companies to share data or push hidden software changes that weaken U.S. networks. They argue that this creates a real risk for households on or near military installations. While TP-Link disputes every allegation and states that it stores U.S. data inside America, lawmakers want a deeper investigation.

“China will use any way to infiltrate us, and we must ensure they cannot access our homeland or military bases,” said Ernst.”High-tech security cameras sending video and audio directly back to Beijing must be treated like the grave threat that they are. We have seen this playbook from China before, with Huawei Technologies, and need the Trump administration to investigate and determine if TP-Link is a trojan horse compromising our national security.”

10M AMERICANS HIT IN GOVERNMENT CONTRACTOR DATA BREACH

How Congress is responding to TP-Link security risks

Sen. Ernst is pressing the Commerce Department to finish its investigation by November 30. Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), who chairs the Senate Intelligence Committee, says TP-Link could give the Chinese government access to American networks and wants faster action. Their concerns reflect past decisions involving Huawei and Kaspersky, which lost access to the U.S. market due to national security risks.

Congressional leaders say foreign-made smart home devices sold on military bases should face strict scrutiny. They see routers, cameras and other connected home gear as critical targets in a time when cyberthreats continue to grow.

We reached out to TP-Link Systems Inc., and a spokesperson provided CyberGuy with the following statement:

“TP-Link Systems Inc. (TP-Link), an American company based in California, refutes the claims in this letter. This letter repeats false and misleading media reports and attacks that have been thoroughly debunked.

TP-Link emphatically objects to any allegation it is tied to the Communist Party of China, dependent on the Chinese government, or otherwise subject to interference under Chinese national security laws. The company is not controlled by any government, foreign or domestic. TP-Link has split from and has no affiliation with the China-based TP-LINK Technologies Co. Ltd., which is separately owned and operated.

Lawmakers warn that TP-Link devices sold on military bases may put service members and their families at greater risk, especially inside base housing. (John Moore/Getty Images)

This letter has nothing to do with security and everything to do with a competitor trying to remove TP-Link Systems’ products from the marketplace. The “open source information” the members reference is actually a manufactured echo chamber of false and misleading attacks that the media has parroted over the past year. Instead of directly engaging with TP-Link Systems, these members essentially pressed “copy and paste” on unsubstantiated claims about our American company.

TP-Link has not been contacted by policymakers to discuss the alleged concerns, but if we were to meet with them, they would learn that TP-Link has located its core security functions and data infrastructure in the United States. U.S. user data is securely stored on Amazon Web Services infrastructure in Virginia, under the full control of the company’s U.S. operations.

TP-Link Systems currently holds a very small share of the U.S. security camera market, representing approximately 3% of the consumer market segment according to Circana checkout data. The company has virtually no business presence in the enterprise segment. Additionally, TP-Link Systems’ router market share in the U.S. has been inaccurately reported as being much higher than it actually is. Recent market research from Dell’Oro Group, Inc., found that TP-Link Systems’ market share of residential Wi-Fi router sales in North America is under 10%.

TP-Link does not enable foreign surveillance of U.S. networks or users. The company’s operations are built to prevent potential attempts to subvert its business by outside influence. TP-Link’s substantial security investments cover its entire product portfolio, including security cameras and routers.

TP-Link continually monitors its products and services and takes timely and appropriate action to address vulnerabilities it becomes aware of. TP-Link has not identified any reliable information regarding new vulnerabilities in its products in connection with this letter.”

FBI WARNS OF HACKERS EXPLOITING OUTDATED ROUTERS. CHECK YOURS NOW

Steps to protect yourself from this growing threat

Even as the debate continues, you can take simple steps to secure your home. These easy moves help defend against threats tied to any router brand.

1) Check your router and update it

Look at the brand on your router. Then update the firmware through the official app or web dashboard. If your device is several years old or no longer supported, replace it. Check out our article on the top routers for the best security at Cyberguy.com.

2) Change your Wi-Fi and admin passwords

Default passwords are dangerous. Create strong, unique passwords for both your Wi-Fi and the router’s admin panel. Consider using a password manager, which securely stores and generates complex passwords, reducing the risk of password reuse.

Next, see if your email has been exposed in past breaches. Our #1 password manager (see Cyberguy.com) 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 atCyberguy.com

Congress is pressing for a fast investigation amid fears that foreign-made smart home gear could become a gateway for cyberthreats across the country. (Cyberguy.com)

3) Use strong antivirus protection on every device

Threats like this continue to grow. Install strong, real-time antivirus protection on every computer, phone, and tablet in your home. 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.

4) Turn off any of these features you do not need

Disable remote access, WPS and extra features you never use. These settings can open doors for attackers.

5) Put smart home devices on a guest network

Keep laptops and phones on your main network. Put cameras, plugs, TVs and IoT devices on a separate guest network so they cannot reach your sensitive devices.

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.

Kurt’s key takeaways

The debate around TP-Link shows how something as routine as a home router can become part of a broader security conversation. Whether or not the government issues a ban, this moment is a clear reminder that cybersecurity starts at home. Small steps make a meaningful difference in how well your devices stand up against foreign-backed hacking groups.

Should the government ban router brands linked to foreign influence or should consumers decide for themselves? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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Hyundai AutoEver America discovered on March 1, 2025, that hackers had compromised its systems. Investigators found the intrusion began on February 22 and continued until March 2. 

Hyundai AutoEver America (HAEA) provides IT services for Hyundai Motor America, including systems that support employee operations and certain connected-vehicle technologies. While the company works across Hyundai’s broader ecosystem, this incident did not involve customer or driver data.

According to the statement provided to CyberGuy, the breach was limited to employment-related information tied to Hyundai AutoEver America and Hyundai Motor America. The company confirmed that about 2,000 current and former employees were notified of the incident in late October. HAEA said it immediately alerted law enforcement and hired outside cybersecurity experts to assess the damage.

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Cybercriminals targeted Hyundai AutoEver America’s systems, exposing sensitive data. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Why this Hyundai AutoEver America breach matters

The exposed data reportedly includes names, Social Security numbers and driver’s license numbers, making this breach far more serious than one involving passwords alone. Experts warn that these details can be used for long-term identity theft and financial fraud. Because Social Security numbers cannot easily be changed, criminals have more time to create fake identities, open fraudulent accounts and launch targeted phishing attacks long after the initial breach.

Experts warn that stolen Social Security and driver’s license information could be used for identity theft and fraud. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Who was affected in the Hyundai AutoEver America data incident

AEA manages select IT systems tied to Hyundai Motor America’s employee operations, along with broader technology functions for Hyundai and Genesis across North America. Its role includes supporting connected-vehicle infrastructure and dealership systems.

According to the company, this incident was limited to employment-related data and primarily affected approximately 2,000 current and former employees of Hyundai AutoEver America and Hyundai Motor America. No customer information or Bluelink driver details were exposed. While some filings reference sensitive data types such as Social Security numbers or driver’s license information, the incident did not involve Hyundai customers or the millions of connected vehicles HAEA supports.. 

Earlier reports suggested that 2.7 million individuals were affected, but Hyundai says that figure is unrelated to the breach. Instead, 2.7 million is the estimated number of connected vehicles that Hyundai AutoEver America helps support across North America. None of that consumer or vehicle data was accessed.

GENESIS PREVIEWS G70 SPORTS SEDAN WITH NEW YORK CONCEPT

Hyundai also clarified that the United States has about 850 Hyundai dealerships and emphasized that the scope of this incident was narrow and contained.

We reached out to HAEA for a comment, and a representative for the company provided Cyberguy with this statement:

“Hyundai AutoEver America, an IT vendor that manages certain Hyundai Motor America employee data systems, experienced an incident to that area of business that impacted employment-related data and primarily affected current and former employees of Hyundai AutoEver America and Hyundai Motor America. Approximately 2,000 primarily current and former employees were notified of the incident. The 2.7 million figure that is cited in many media articles has no relation to the actual security incident. The 2.7 million figure represents the alleged total number of connected vehicles that may be supported by Hyundai AutoEver America across North America. No Hyundai consumer data was exposed, and no Hyundai Motor America customer information or Bluelink driver data was compromised.”

 — ssssssssScammers may now pose as company representatives, contacting people to steal more personal details.  (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What you should do right now

• Monitor your bank, credit card and vehicle-related accounts for suspicious activity.
• Check for a notification letter from Hyundai AutoEver America or your car brand.
• Enroll in the two years of complimentary credit monitoring offered by HAEA if you qualify.
• Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on all important accounts, including those tied to your vehicle.
• Be cautious of emails, texts, or calls claiming to be from Hyundai, Kia, or Genesis. Always verify through official websites.

Smart ways to stay safe after the Hyundai AutoEver America breach

Whether you were directly affected or just want to stay alert, this breach is a reminder of how important it is to protect your personal information. Follow these practical steps to keep your data secure and reduce the risk of identity theft or scams.

HYUNDAI TO RECALL GENESIS CARS TO FIX BRAKES

1) Freeze or alert your credit

Contact major credit bureaus — Experian, TransUnion and Equifax — to set a fraud alert or freeze. This helps block new accounts from being opened in your name.

2) Protect your vehicle apps

If you use apps tied to your vehicle, update passwords and enable multi-factor authentication. Avoid saving login details in unsecured places. Also, consider using a password manager, which securely stores and generates complex passwords, reducing the risk of password reuse. 

Next, see if your email has been exposed in past breaches. Our #1 password manager (see Cyberguy.com) 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

3) Watch for fake support messages

Scammers may use news of the Hyundai AutoEver America breach as a way to contact Hyundai, Kia, or Genesis owners, pretending to be from customer support or the dealership. They might claim to help verify your account, update your information, or fix a security issue. Do not share personal details or click any links. Type the brand’s web address directly into your browser instead of clicking links in messages or emails. Always confirm through the official brand website or by calling the verified customer service number.

4) Use strong antivirus protection

Using strong antivirus software helps block phishing links, malware downloads and fake websites that might appear after a data breach. It can also scan your devices for hidden threats that may try to steal login data or personal files.

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 and iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.

5) Use a data removal service

Data removal tools automatically find and delete your personal information from people-search and data-broker sites. These services reduce the chances that criminals will use leaked data to target you with phishing or social-engineering scams.

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.

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

6) Monitor your digital footprint

Consider using identity monitoring services to track your personal information and detect possible misuse early.

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.

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

7) Keep your devices updated

Regularly install security updates on your phone, laptop and smart car systems to reduce the risk of further attacks.

8) Report suspicious activity the right way

If you notice unusual account activity, fraudulent charges, or suspicious messages that appear tied to this breach, report it immediately. Start by contacting your bank or credit card provider to freeze or dispute any unauthorized transactions. Then, file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at IdentityTheft.gov, where you can create an official recovery plan. If you suspect a scam message or call, forward phishing emails to reportphishing@apwg.org and report fake texts to 7726 (SPAM).

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Kurt’s key takeaways

This incident highlights how much personal data is connected to modern cars and how vulnerable those systems can be. When your vehicle is linked to your identity, protecting your data becomes just as important as maintaining the car itself. Stay alert, use the tools available to safeguard your accounts and report any suspicious activity right away.

Should companies like Hyundai AutoEver be doing more to keep customer data secure? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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