Apple now lets you add your passport to your phone’s Wallet, giving you a new way to move through TSA lines with less stress this holiday season. Instead of digging through your bag for your ID, you can use a secure Digital ID on your iPhone at more than 250 airports across the United States. With more digital ID options appearing across the country, here is what you need to know before you start using it.

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How Apple Digital ID works

Digital ID stores your passport information securely on your device. Your data stays encrypted at all times. Apple cannot see where or when you use your Digital ID.

Apple’s new Digital ID lets you store a passport on your iPhone for faster TSA checks. (Sean Gallup/Getty Images)

When you present your Digital ID, you choose what information the TSA can see. You review the request on your screen and confirm it with Face ID or Touch ID. This helps prevent situations where someone else could access your ID without your approval.

APPLE PASSKEY TECHNOLOGY TRANSFORMS MAC SECURITY WITH BIOMETRIC AUTHENTICATION, ENCRYPTED STORAGE

Where Digital ID works

Digital ID works for identity checks at select TSA lanes during domestic travel. It does not work for international flights or border crossings. Apple says support will expand to certain hotels, stores and online services where age or ID checks are needed.

Eligibility requirements for Apple Digital ID

Before you add a Digital ID to Apple Wallet, you need to meet a few basic requirements. To start, you must have a valid, unexpired U.S. passport. You also need an iPhone 11 or later with iOS 26.1 or later. 

If your iPhone is not up-to-date, you can install iOS 26.1 by opening Settings, tapping General, choosing Software Update and following the on-screen steps. Make sure your phone is charged and connected to Wi-Fi before you start the update.

Digital ID in Wallet works only at select TSA checkpoints for domestic travel. It cannot replace a physical passport. Because of that, you should still bring your physical passport or license in case TSA needs to review it. You must also carry your physical passport for any international travel or border crossing.

With Digital ID, you control what information is shared at security and confirm each request with Face ID. (Ronaldo Schemidt/AFP via Getty Images)

How to add your passport to Apple Wallet 

• Setting up Digital ID only takes a few minutes. You need an iPhone and a valid U.S. passport.
• Open the Wallet app on your iPhone
• Tap the Add button
• Select Driver’s License or ID Cards
• Choose Digital ID
• Click Add to iPhone and Apple Watch or Add to iPhone Only
• Scan the photo page of your passport
• Hold your iPhone to read the passport chip
• When it says “Verification Required”, click Continue
• Take a selfie
• Complete the short head movement prompts
• Wait for verification
• Your Digital ID appears in Apple Wallet when approved. You will receive a notification that says, Digital ID is ready to use. 

CLOUD STORAGE FULL SCAM STEALS YOUR PHOTOS AND MONEY

How to use your Digital ID at TSA

How to add a passport to Google Wallet

Google users can also store a digital version of their U.S. passport in Google Wallet. This option works at TSA checkpoints that support digital IDs for domestic travel, just like Apple’s version. You still need to keep your physical passport or license with you in case TSA requests it. Setting it up is simple and only takes a few minutes.

How to add your passport to Google Wallet

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer 

• Open the Google Wallet app on your Android phone
• Tap Add to Wallet
• Select ID Card
• Choose U.S. Passport
• Scan the photo page of your passport
• Hold your phone near the passport chip to read it
• Take a selfie video so Google can verify your identity
• Follow the on-screen head movement prompts
• Wait for verification
• Your passport will appear in Google Wallet once approved

Digital ID works at more than 250 airports for domestic travel, with more locations coming soon. (iStock)

How to use your digital passport at TSA with Google Wallet

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer 

• Open Google Wallet on your phone
• Tap your passport
• Hold your device near the TSA identity reader
• Review the information TSA requests
• Confirm with your device unlock method, such as fingerprint or PIN

FAKE FLIGHT CANCELLATION TEXTS TARGET TRAVELERS

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Kurt’s key takeaways 

Digital ID gives you a fresh way to move through crowded TSA lines with less hassle. It uses the security features built into iPhone and Apple Watch and keeps your passport information stored on your device. Use it for domestic travel and keep your physical ID handy as a reliable backup.

Would you feel confident using a digital passport during your next TSA screening? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com

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Google is sounding the alarm for Android users after uncovering a wave of fake VPN apps that sneak malware onto phones and tablets. These dangerous apps pose as privacy tools but hide info stealers, banking trojans and remote access malware designed to loot personal data.

More people are relying on VPNs to protect their privacy, secure home networks and shield personal information while using public Wi-Fi. Attackers know this demand is growing. They use it to lure users into downloading convincing VPN lookalikes that contain hidden malware.

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Fake VPN apps are spreading across Android devices by posing as trusted privacy tools. (iStock)

How fake VPN apps lure users

Cybercriminals create malicious VPN apps that impersonate trusted brands. They use sexually suggestive ads, geopolitical headlines or fake privacy claims to push people into quick downloads. Google says many of these campaigns run across app stores and shady websites.

DELETE THE FAKE VPN APP STEALING ANDROID USERS’ MONEY

Once installed, these apps inject malware that steals passwords, messages and financial details. Attackers can hijack accounts, drain bank balances or lock devices with ransomware. Some campaigns even use professional ad creatives and influencer-style promotions to appear legitimate.

Scammers now use AI tools to design ads, phishing pages and fake brands with alarming speed. This gives them the power to reach large groups of victims with very little effort.

Why malicious VPN apps are spreading

Fake VPN apps remain one of the most effective tools for attackers. These apps request sensitive permissions and often run silently in the background. Once active, they can collect browsing data, cryptocurrency wallet details or private messages.

According to Google, the most dangerous apps pretend to be known enterprise VPNs or premium privacy tools. Many promote themselves through adult ads, push notifications and cloned social media accounts.

How to recognize a genuine VPN app

Google recommends installing VPN services only from trusted sources. In Google Play, legitimate VPNs include a verified VPN badge to show that the app passed an authenticity check.

A real VPN will never ask for access to your contacts, photos or private messages. It will not ask you to sideload updates or follow outside links for installation.

Be careful with free VPN claims. Many free privacy tools rely on excessive data collection or hide malware inside downloadable files.

Ways to stay safe from fake VPN apps

Staying ahead of these fake VPN scams starts with a few smart habits that make your device much harder for attackers to target.

1) Download only from official app stores

Stick to the Google Play Store. Avoid links from ads, pop-ups or messages that try to rush you. Many fake VPN campaigns depend on off-platform downloads because they cannot pass the Play Store security checks.

2) Look for the VPN badge in Google Play

Google now includes a special VPN badge that verifies an app has passed an authenticity review. This badge confirms that the developer followed strict guidelines and that the app went through additional screening.

If you want a reliable VPN that has already been vetted for security and performance, see my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.

3) Use a data removal service

Malicious VPN apps often target information already floating around the web, including your email, phone number and personal details exposed through data brokers. A trusted data removal service can help pull your information from people-search sites and broker databases, which reduces the amount of data scammers can use against you. This limits the damage if a fake VPN app steals your info or if attackers try to match stolen data with public records to build convincing scams.

CAN YOU BE TRACKED WHEN USING A VPN?

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.

Once installed, these lookalike VPN apps steal passwords, messages and financial details. (iStock)

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

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4) Turn on Google Play Protect and use a strong antivirus software

Google Play Protect, which is built-in malware protection for Android devices, automatically removes known malware. However, it is important to note that Google Play Protect may not be enough. Historically, it isn’t 100% foolproof at removing all emerging malware from Android devices. 

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer 

How to turn it on: Open Google Play Store → Tap your profile icon → Select Play Protect → Tap Settings → Turn on Scan apps with Play Protect → Turn on Improve harmful app detection.

While Google Play Protect offers a helpful first layer of defense, it is not a full antivirus. A strong antivirus software adds another layer of protection. It can block malicious downloads, detect hidden malware and warn you when an app acts in unusual ways. 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

5) Review app permissions carefully

A genuine VPN only needs network-related permissions. If a VPN asks for access to photos, contacts or messages, treat it as a major warning sign. Restrict permissions when possible.

6) Avoid sideloading apps from unknown sources

Sideloaded apps bypass Google’s security filters. Attackers often hide malware inside APK files or update prompts that promise extra features. If you’re unfamiliar with the term, sideloading means installing apps outside the Google Play Store, usually by downloading a file from a website, email or message. These apps never go through Google’s safety checks, which makes them far riskier to install.

7) Watch for aggressive ads and scare tactics

Fake VPN ads often claim your device is already infected or that your connection is not secure. Real privacy apps do not use panic-based marketing.

8) Research the developer before downloading

Look up the developer’s website and reviews. A legitimate VPN provider will have a clear privacy policy, customer support and a consistent history of app updates.

9) Be skeptical of anything labeled free

Free VPNs often rely on risky data practices or hide malware. If a service promises premium features at no cost, question how it pays its bills.

DO YOU NEED A VPN AT HOME? HERE ARE 10 REASONS YOU DO

10) Avoid recovery scams after an attack

If someone contacts you claiming they can recover stolen money, cut contact. Real agencies never demand upfront fees and never request remote access to your device.

11) Keep your device updated

Install security patches as soon as they appear. Updates protect your phone from malware strains that rely on old software vulnerabilities.

Scammers now use AI-generated ads and fake brands to trick you into quick downloads. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Kurt’s key takeaways

Fake VPN apps are becoming a major threat to Android users as scammers exploit the rising demand for privacy tools and home network security. Attackers hide behind familiar logos, aggressive ads and AI-powered campaigns to push apps that steal data the moment you install them. Staying safe requires careful downloading habits, attention to permissions and a healthy amount of skepticism toward anything that claims instant privacy or premium features for free.

Do you think Google should do more to block fake VPN apps in the Play Store? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com

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A new scam is sweeping across smartphones and catching thousands of people off guard. Criminals are sending fake “Cloud Storage Full” or “photo deletion” alerts that claim your images and videos are about to disappear unless you upgrade your storage. The warning looks urgent and real. It even mimics major cloud services. But the moment you click the link, you enter a trap.

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How this fast-growing Cloud Storage Full scam tricks victims

Trend Micro researchers recently uncovered this fast-growing phishing campaign after seeing a massive jump in activity. The company reports a 531% month-over-month spike from September to October, which shows how quickly the scheme is spreading.

PROTECT YOUR DATA BEFORE HOLIDAY SHOPPING SCAMS STRIKE

Scammers use convincing storage alerts and fake dashboards to push victims into paying small fees that expose their credit card details. (Pixelfit/Getty Images)

Scammers are sending personalized SMS and iMessage alerts that include your name and a believable count of photos or videos. Once you tap the link, you land on a very convincing fake website that appears to be a cloud storage dashboard. From there, you are urged to pay a tiny $1.99 upgrade fee to prevent deletion. Instead of protecting anything, you hand over your credit card, PayPal login or other personal information.

Trend Micro provided several screenshots and internal samples that reveal how polished the scam has become. The fake sites use progress bars, countdown timers and warnings that your files will be lost. They even simulate a cloud storage layout to match the look of popular platforms. 

Jon Clay, VP of Threat Intelligence at Trend Micro, shared an important warning to CyberGuy:

“The recent spike in ‘Cloud Storage Full’ scams shows just how well cybercriminals are perfecting emotional manipulation. These scams prey on fear and urgency, warning users their photos will be deleted unless they pay a small upgrade fee. During a time of year when we may be capturing many precious moments on camera, scammers are targeting older adults who may think this type of scam message is legitimate and who may be worried and anxious about losing something that cannot easily replace. Consumers should always stay cautious of unsolicited messages and always verify alerts directly through official apps or websites.”

Trend Micro’s analysis outlines exactly how the scam works, from the initial message to the final theft. Their screenshots show fake dashboards, false warnings and pages asking for credit card or PayPal details. Some versions even redirect to legitimate sites later to cover their tracks.

How the Cloud Storage Full scam works

Scammers follow a predictable pattern with this scheme, and each stage reveals a clear red flag that can help you spot the danger early.

1) Initial contact

Victims receive an unsolicited SMS or iMessage that claims their photos or videos will be deleted soon. Messages include the person’s first name and fake counts like “1,675 images” or “2,010 snaps” to boost credibility. Scammers add statements like “Act now” or “Final warning” to trigger panic. Each message ends with a short link that leads to a malicious .info domain.

FAKE CHATGPT APPS ARE HIJACKING YOUR PHONE WITHOUT YOU KNOWING

2) Trust building

After tapping the link, the user arrives at a fake “Cloud Storage Full” website. It mirrors the fonts, icons and button styles of real cloud services. Users see alerts such as “Your photos, contacts and private data will be lost.” Everything looks polished to reduce suspicion.

3) The hook

The site claims your storage is completely full and urges a one-time upgrade for $1.99. A progress bar sits at 100 percent full and a countdown timer warns that data will vanish in minutes. The “Continue” button goes to a fake payment page.

4) The exit

Once victims enter credit card or PayPal details, scammers harvest the data instantly. Attackers may use stolen credentials for unauthorized purchases, credential stuffing or resale on dark web markets. Some victims receive fake receipt emails to make the charge look legitimate.

Trend Micro reports that certain scam sites later redirect to real pages like iolo.com to hide their tracks.

Scammers use fake dashboards and alerts to push victims to share payment info. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Red flags to watch for

• Urgent warnings that your photos will be deleted
• Unfamiliar links ending in .info
• Messages that include your name to appear credible
• Payment requests for tiny fees like $1.99
• Countdown timers meant to force quick decisions
• Sites that look familiar but have unusual URLs

Tips to stay safe from Cloud Storage Full scams

Scammers rely on fear and urgency to push quick decisions, but a few smart habits can shut down their tricks before they start.

1) Verify alerts inside the official app or website

Open your cloud storage app or go to the official website directly. If you see a real problem, it will appear there. This simple step prevents you from reacting to fake warnings.

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2) Never tap storage alerts sent through SMS or iMessage, and use strong antivirus software

Break the habit of tapping links in messages. Real cloud services rarely text users about photo deletion. A strong antivirus tool will flag dangerous links before they open.

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

3) Use a data removal service

Consider using a reputable data removal service to scrub your personal details from data broker sites. This step makes it harder for scammers to target you with personalized messages that look real.

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

4) Watch for strange links

Look closely at every link. Scammers rely on short domains that look suspicious. Legitimate companies avoid shortened URLs and unknown domains.

5) Use multi-factor authentication

Turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all cloud and payment accounts. It adds a powerful layer of protection if criminals steal your login.

6) Check your credit card for small test charges

Review your statements often. Attackers start with tiny charges to test a card before making bigger purchases.

GEEK SQUAD SCAM EMAIL: HOW TO SPOT AND STOP IT

7) Use a password manager

A good password manager helps you create strong, unique passwords. It limits the fallout if your login appears in a data breach.

Next, see if your email has been exposed in past breaches. Our #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.

These fake storage warnings mimic real cloud services and pressure users to upgrade for $1.99. Once you enter payment info, scammers steal it instantly. (uchar/Getty Images)

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

8) Report suspicious messages

Forward scam texts to 7726 (SPAM). This helps carriers block similar messages for everyone.

Kurt’s key takeaways

This scam spreads because it hits people where they are most vulnerable. Our phones store personal memories, family events and moments we never want to lose. Scammers know this and are now creating messages that look real enough to fool even the most cautious users. Emotional triggers like fear and urgency remain powerful tools for cybercriminals. Always question surprise warnings about data loss. When in doubt, check your account directly through the official app or website. A few seconds of verification can save you from credit card theft and identity headaches.

Have you ever received a message like this, and how did you handle it? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com

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A new robotic breakthrough out of South Korea may soon turn your clothes into assistive tech. Researchers have found a way to mass-produce ultra-thin “fabric muscles” that can flex and lift like human tissue. The innovation could redefine how wearable robots support people in everyday life.

Scientists at the Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (KIMM) developed an automated weaving system that spins shape-memory alloy coils thinner than a strand of hair.

Despite weighing less than half an ounce, this new material can lift about 33 pounds. That makes it light, flexible and strong enough to power the next generation of wearable robotics.

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WORLD’S FIRST AI-POWERED INDUSTRIAL SUPER-HUMANOID ROBOT

Dr. Cheol Hoon Park, principal researcher at the Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials, examines a lightweight clothing-type wearable robot. (KIMM)

A new way to build strength into clothing

Until now, most wearable robots have relied on motors or pneumatic systems. These made them bulky, loud and expensive. They also limited how easily a person could move.

KIMM’s solution replaces the metal core of earlier coil designs with natural fiber. This shift allows the yarn to stretch more freely while keeping its power. The upgraded weaving system now produces these fabric muscles continuously, paving the way for large-scale manufacturing.

The result is a lightweight actuator that moves naturally with the body. It can support multiple joints at once, like the shoulders, elbows and waist, without restricting movement.

Real results from early testing

The team built the world’s first clothing-type wearable robot weighing less than 4.5 pounds. In testing, it cut muscle effort by more than 40% during repetitive work.

A smaller version designed for shoulder support weighs only about 1.8 pounds. In hospital trials at Seoul National University Hospital, patients with muscle weakness improved their shoulder movement by more than 57%.

These results show that fabric muscles can do much more than help factory workers; they can restore independence and mobility for people who need it most.

THE NEW ROBOT THAT COULD MAKE CHORES A THING OF THE PAST

A man runs while wearing an AI-powered exoskeleton. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What this means to you

This new kind of wearable tech could one day show up in your daily routine. Picture a jacket that quietly helps lift groceries, or a work shirt that reduces strain during long shifts. For people in recovery, it could offer gentle, continuous support that makes movement easier and less painful.

Healthcare professionals could see fewer injuries, while patients gain more freedom. And in industries like construction and logistics, these fabric muscles could reduce fatigue and boost safety.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

KIMM’s success with automated fabric muscle production marks a turning point for wearable robotics. By weaving strength into soft, flexible materials, engineers are closing the gap between machine power and human comfort. As this technology spreads from labs to workplaces and homes, the idea of clothing that truly supports you, physically and practically, is becoming a reality.

PUTIN CALLS DANCING RUSSIAN ROBOT ‘VERY BEAUTIFUL’ IN AWKWARD AI CONFERENCE MOMENT

The humanoid robot Tiangong, developed by Beijing Innovation Center of Humanoid Robotics Co., moves an orange during a demonstration at Beijing Robotics Industrial Park in Beijing E-Town, China, on May 16, 2025. (REUTERS/Tingshu Wang)

Would you wear robotic clothing if it meant less strain, more strength, and greater freedom every day? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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