A new security issue was found in the Windows Wi-Fi driver that let hackers break into your PC through wireless networks. 

This flaw, which is now fixed, allowed attackers to run malicious programs on affected computers. It impacted all modern versions of Windows and Windows Server, and the hackers didn’t need to have any previous access to the target computer.

Fortunately, Microsoft has released a security update that addresses this Wi-Fi driver vulnerability. However, it’s crucial to keep your software up to date and follow best practices to minimize the risk of such attacks.

We’ll provide tips below on what you should do to protect yourself if a similar issue arises in the future.

GET SECURITY ALERTS, EXPERT TIPS – SIGN UP FOR KURT’S NEWSLETTER – THE CYBERGUY REPORT HERE

Windows laptop computers  (Microsoft)

What you need to know about the security flaw

Microsoft labeled the vulnerability CVE-2024-30078 with a maximum severity of “Important.” It is described as a “Windows Wi-Fi Driver Remote Code Execution Vulnerability.” If we break down these terms, you’d understand that the flaw allows an attacker within Wi-Fi range of your computer to send a specially crafted network packet to the target and exploit your PC.

This vulnerability is dangerous because it can bypass all security checks, doesn’t need special permissions and requires no action from the user. For example, imagine you’re at a cafe using its public Wi-Fi. You’d expect some security measures to protect your device. But with this vulnerability, an attacker could easily sneak malware onto your laptop without you knowing. You wouldn’t have to click anything or give permission — just being connected to the Wi-Fi is enough. This could happen at any public hot spot, like at hotels, airports or cafes, putting many people at risk.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

Microsoft admitted there weren’t any known active attacks utilizing this security hole. However, it described the vulnerability itself as fairly easy to exploit. While Microsoft downplays the immediate risk, these announcements can sometimes attract malicious hackers. The vulnerability affects every supported version of Windows, including unpatched versions of Windows 10 and Windows 11. It also affects all Windows Server versions from 2008 onward.

A woman working  (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

DON’T LET SNOOPS NEARBY LISTEN TO YOUR VOICEMAIL WITH THIS QUICK TIP

Microsoft’s response to its security vulnerability

On June 11, Microsoft released a patch that eliminates the security vulnerability. This patch also addresses 49 CVEs across Windows and its components, Office and its components, Azure Dynamic Business Central and Visual Studio. This is applicable if you are using a version of Windows that still receives security updates. If you are using an end-of-life version of Windows without an extended service contract, it is recommended to update to a supported version as soon as possible.

Update your Windows software now

In light of the recently discovered and patched Wi-Fi driver vulnerability, it is crucial for all Windows users to promptly update their software to ensure maximum protection against potential cyber threats. Keeping your operating system and other software up to date is one of the most effective ways to safeguard your devices from known vulnerabilities and security flaws. To update your Windows software and benefit from the latest security patches, follow these simple steps:

For Windows 10 and Windows 11

• Click on the Start menu and select “Settings” (or press the Windows key + I shortcut).
• In the Settings window, click on “Update & Security.”
• Under the “Windows Update” section, click on “Check for updates.”
• If updates are available, including the patch for the Wi-Fi driver vulnerability, Windows will download and install them automatically.
• Once the installation is complete, you may be prompted to restart your computer to apply the updates.

GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE

For Windows 8.1 and earlier versions

1. Open the Control Panel and navigate to “System and Security.”
2. Under the “Windows Update” section, click on “Check for updates.”
3. If updates are available, including the patch for the Wi-Fi driver vulnerability, select them and click “Install updates.”
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
5. Restart your computer if prompted to apply the updates.

By keeping your Windows software up to date, you not only protect yourself from the recently discovered Wi-Fi driver vulnerability but also ensure that your system is fortified against other known security threats. Regular software updates are essential for maintaining a secure and reliable computing environment. Remember, cybercriminals are constantly seeking new ways to exploit vulnerabilities, so it’s crucial to stay vigilant and promptly install updates as they become available. 

Windows laptop  (Microsoft)

CYBER SCAMMERS USE AI TO MANIPULATE GOOGLE SEARCH RESULTS 

Six ways to protect yourself from Wi-Fi cyberattacks

There are many ways a Wi-Fi network can be exploited by bad actors. However, you can protect yourself by following these steps.

1. Enable encryption: WPA2 and WPA3 (Wi-Fi-protected access) are the standard encryptions now. If your network is using WEP (wired equivalent privacy) security, this is outdated. New routers should automatically come with WPA2 or WPA3 encryption, but you may have to enable it to be sure your router is secure. Your wireless network manual will show you how to enable this on your particular network, but be sure to do so so your Wi-Fi requires a password.

2. Update your Wi-Fi password often: When you first set up a new router, it will come with a pre-set Wi-Fi router name and password. Be sure to change this as soon as you set it up and use a strong password. Always make sure your network requires a password to log in. It’s also important to change this information regularly. This makes it harder for anyone to hack into your network. Use these Best Password Managers for 2024 to help create and store your passwords.

3. Update firmware and software: As with computers and phones, it’s essential to keep your software up to date to help protect against security threats. Always run the latest software. Some routers will call this firmware, so make sure to keep that updated.

4. Install a strong antivirus program: Hackers often gain access to devices by sending infected emails or documents or tricking users into clicking a link that downloads malware. You can avoid all of this by installing antivirus software that will detect any potential threat before it can take over your device or router. Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices.

5. Pick a secure router: If you’re in the market for a new router, check out my list of top routers. These routers are recommended not only for their security features but also for their compatibility with VPN service providers.

6. Use a VPN: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can provide an additional layer of security, especially when accessing your network remotely. For best VPN software, see my expert review of the best VPNs for browsing the web privately on your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices 

Remember, while no system can be completely invulnerable, these steps can significantly reduce the risk of cyberattacks on your Wi-Fi network.

Kurt’s key takeaway

The Wi-Fi driver flaw on Windows is particularly concerning because it gives bad actors an open invitation to exploit your computer. Since Microsoft has now made the vulnerability public, cybercriminals may try to exploit it even though the Redmond-based company says it has patched it. As a rule of thumb, avoid using public Wi-Fi networks you don’t trust. If necessary, connect to a VPN, turn off file sharing, and disable auto-connect.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Do you often use public Wi-Fi networks? If yes, do you take any measures to protect your digital privacy and safety? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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

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

Follow Kurt on his social channels

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com.  All rights reserved.

In the world of robotics, there’s always something new on the horizon, but Mitsubishi Electric has really turned heads this time. Its robot, TOKUFASTbot, which you might find on a regular day carefully wiring motors, has just stepped into the spotlight for a completely different reason. 

It’s taken on the Rubik’s Cube and not just played around with it. It’s set a new world record.

This isn’t just about being fast; it’s about redefining what we think robots can do. It’s precision and technology coming together in a way that’s frankly mind-blowing. And it all happened so fast. If you blinked, you probably missed it.

GET SECURITY ALERTS, EXPERT TIPS – SIGN UP FOR KURT’S NEWSLETTER – THE CYBERGUY REPORT HERE

The puzzle phenomenon revisited

So, the Rubik’s Cube. We all know it, right? That colorful little cube that’s been twisting our brains since the ’80s. Fast-forward to the early 2000s, and it was back in the limelight, captivating a whole new generation. It’s not just about making each side match; it’s about the journey there. It takes logic, patience and some nimble fingers at play.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

And let’s not forget “speedcubing.” It’s like the Olympics for puzzle solvers, where every tiny tick of the clock can make or break a world record. It’s this thrill that keeps the cube turning in hands all over the world.

Rubik’s Cube  (Rubik’s)

CHINA UNVEILS ITS FIRST FULL-SIZE ELECTRIC RUNNING HUMANOID ROBOT

A record shattered

The human record for solving the Rubik’s Cube, an impressive 3.13 seconds, was set by Max Park in 2023. However, Mitsubishi Electric’s TOKUFASTbot has left human competitors in the dust, solving the cube in a mere 0.305 seconds. This achievement not only breaks the previous robot record set by an MIT robot in 2018 but does so in less time than it takes for a human to blink.

GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE

TOKUFASTbot  (Mitsubishi Electric)

BOSTON DYNAMICS’ CREEPY ROBOTIC CANINE DANCES IN SPARKLY BLUE COSTUME 

The technology behind the triumph

The TOKUFASTbot owes its success to a rotation mechanism capable of a 90-degree turn in just 0.9 milliseconds. This incredible speed is made possible by Mitsubishi Electric’s signal-responsive servomotors and a cutting-edge color-recognition artificial intelligence algorithm. The result is a robot that can assess, plan and execute the puzzle’s solution faster than we can see it happen.

HOW TO REMOVE YOUR PRIVATE DATA FROM THE INTERNET 
 

TOKUFASTbot  (Mitsubishi Electric)

FREAK ROBOT MADE IN CHINA CAN LEARN, THINK AND WORK LIKE HUMANS  

More than just a record breaker

While setting a new Guinness World Record for the “fastest robot to solve a rotating puzzle cube” is a remarkable achievement, the TOKUFASTbot isn’t just a one-trick pony. Its design isn’t for show but for function. As Yuji Yoshimura, senior general manager at Mitsubishi Electric’s Component Production Engineering Center, points out, the robot’s primary role is to enhance motor manufacturing for everyday appliances.

TOKUFASTbot (Mitsubishi Electric)

SUBSCRIBE TO KURT’S YOUTUBE CHANNEL FOR QUICK VIDEO TIPS ON HOW TO WORK ALL OF YOUR TECH DEVICES.

Kurt’s key takeaways

You know, this whole record-smashing thing isn’t just about a robot solving a puzzle super fast. It’s really shining a light on how far we’ve come with robots and AI. Looking ahead, the stuff they’re making today is going to really change the game in ways we’re just starting to get. And while the TOKUFASTbot isn’t winning any beauty contests, it’s pretty darn impressive to those who dig tech like me.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Considering the rapid progress in AI and robotics, what considerations do you think companies should keep in mind as these technologies develop? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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

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

Follow Kurt on his social channels

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com.  All rights reserved.

The first artificial intelligence robocall scammer has been officially named by the Federal Communications Commission. But is it too little, too late? 

After all, Royal Tiger has already gotten away with loads of scams that have impacted millions of Americans.

Let’s talk about what these headlines mean for AI scammers in general, what you still need to be on the lookout for and how to protect yourself from these sophisticated scams going forward.

GET SECURITY ALERTS, EXPERT TIPS — SIGN UP FOR KURT’S NEWSLETTER — THE CYBERGUY REPORT HERE

A woman receiving a robocall. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

So, who is the Royal Tiger cyber gang?

Royal Tiger is the first robocall gang named by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). This group is known to use sophisticated techniques in their cyber scams, such as AI voice cloning, to impersonate staff from government agencies, banks and utilities, known as “robocall” scams.

The crew consists of individuals and voice service providers operating from various countries, including India, the U.K., the United Arab Emirates, and the U.S. The group is led by Prince Jashvantlal Anand, who uses the alias “Frank Murphy,” and his associate Kaushal Bhavsar. Anand has served as “CEO” of “U.S.-based companies” like Illum Telecommunication and PZ Telecommunication 

END OF ANNOYING ROBOCALLS? FTC CRACKS DOWN ON DECEPTIVE PRACTICES

What are robocalls and AI scams?

Robocalls and AI scams involve using automated calling systems and artificial intelligence to deceive and defraud individuals. Although there are a few ways to do this, scammers like Royal Tiger are now relying on AI voice cloning to create realistic-sounding voices that impersonate legitimate entities such as government agencies, banks and utility companies.

Generally, these scams involve using certain trick scenarios to take advantage of their victims, like calling about credit card interest rate reductions or fake purchase authorization orders, which enable them to obtain consumers’ financial and other sensitive data from the individuals that they target.

With phone spoofing techniques, it’s possible to make your caller ID actually show a call from these agencies, too, to make it look more legitimate.

A man frustrated by a robocall. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

SUBSCRIBE TO KURT’S YOUTUBE CHANNEL FOR QUICK VIDEO TIPS ON HOW TO WORK ALL OF YOUR TECH DEVICES

Is the Federal Communications Commission doing anything about it?

The first step to making scammers public — thus, spreading more awareness about these types of scams — is to publicly name and shame them. That’s what the FCC is attempting to do with Royal Tiger, with the hope that detailing their operations will encourage international action against the scammers. Meanwhile, in the U.S., the FCC aims to disrupt their activities and hold them accountable by sending cease-and-desist letters to companies involved in the operation, such as Illum Telecommunication, PZ Telecommunication and One Eye.

In some cases, the FCC has actually required downstream providers to block traffic from these companies. Additionally, the FCC has classified Royal Tiger and its entities as a Consumer Communications Information Services Threat (C-CIST), due to the significant danger they pose to consumer trust in communications services.

CYBER SCAMMERS USE AI TO MANIPULATE GOOGLE SEARCH RESULTS

What experts have to say

Dr. Ilia Kolochenko, CEO at ImmuniWeb and Adjunct Professor of Cybersecurity at Capital Technology University, commented:

“In 2024, we will probably see a surge of computer-enabled fraud and crimes — which should, however, be distinguished from pure cybercrime — propelled by the ballooning misuse of freely available Generative AI (GenAI) tools and online services. When combined with well-thought-out social engineering campaigns, GenAI can cause unprecedented financial damage in mass-scale phishing or fraud campaigns. For instance, elderly people and other socially vulnerable groups may be perfidiously tricked into paying ‘fines’ for speeding or petty offences that they have never committed.

“Well-prepared fake calls nefariously exploit people’s respect of law enforcement and government, for instance, calling on behalf of the local police or the FBI, citing numerous laws and regulations with some legalese to intellectually disarm and psychologically paralyse their victims. With VoIP, phone numbers can be easily spoofed, so many gangs utilize real phone numbers of law enforcement agencies to increase authenticity of their calls.

“Then the victim may be offered a ‘big favour’ (allegedly available only to first-time offenders) to pay the fine online or even by sharing their credit card details via phone — instead of traveling to the police station or local court. Sadly, most victims will readily pay. Worse, quite some will keep the event confidential, truly thinking that they did something bad and were lucky to avoid harsher penalties.”

HOW TO STOP PHONE NUMBER SPOOFING AND PROTECT YOURSELF FROM SCAMMERS

How to take protection into your own hands

While it’s great news that the FCC has taken these measures thus far, groups like Royal Tiger are generally able to move quickly and stay one step ahead, redefining their tactics and becoming more sophisticated. Here are some tips to take matters into your own hands and protect yourself:

Be skeptical of unsolicited calls: Be cautious when receiving unsolicited calls, especially those that request personal information or offer services that seem too good to be true.

Use call-blocking services: Many phone providers offer services to block or screen unwanted calls. Utilize these features to reduce the number of robocalls you receive.

Verify caller identity: If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from a government agency, bank or utility company, hang up and call the official number of the organization to verify the authenticity of the call.

Avoid sharing personal information at all costs: Do not share sensitive information such as Social Security numbers, bank account details or credit card numbers over the phone unless you are certain of the caller’s identity.

Report suspicious calls: Report any suspicious calls to the FCC or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Your reports can help these agencies track and take action against scam operations.

Use data removal services: Consider using data removal services to minimize the amount of personal information available online, making it harder for scammers to obtain. While no service promises to remove all your data from the internet, having a removal service is great if you want to constantly monitor and automate the process of removing your information from hundreds of sites continuously over a longer period of time. Check out my top picks for personal data removal services here.

A woman receiving a robocall. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Kurt’s key takeaways

While the FCC naming Royal Tiger the first official AI robocall scammer gang is a positive step, sophisticated AI-powered scams exploiting voice cloning and caller ID spoofing will likely surge. We must all remain extremely vigilant — verify any unsolicited calls demanding personal information or payment through official channels, never share sensitive data over the phone and report suspected scams. A coordinated effort from the government, companies, and individuals is crucial to combating these evolving AI-enabled fraud tactics effectively.

What role should AI companies play in preventing their technologies from being misused for nefarious purposes like voice cloning scams? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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

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

Follow Kurt on his social channels:

Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

Ashton Kutcher attends the 9th annual Breakthrough Prize ceremony at Academy Museum of Motion Pictures on April 15, 2023, in Los Angeles. (Taylor Hill/Getty Images)

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

IN TODAY’S NEWSLETTER:

– Ashton Kutcher doubles down on AI comments after facing backlash: ‘Need to be prepared’ for what’s coming
– Artificial intelligence, proven in NASA and neurosurgery, could remake childhood education
– Pope Francis warns of AI in first-ever G-7 papal address

‘BE PREPARED’: Ashton Kutcher is addressing the backlash he’s faced after saying artificial intelligence could essentially replace a multitude of roles in the entertainment industry. Last week, Kutcher spoke with former Google CEO Eric Schmidt at the Berggruen Salon in Los Angeles, praising OpenAI’s generative video tool, Sora.

Ashton Kutcher listens during the Milken Institute Global Conference in Beverly Hills, California, on May 2, 2023. (PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images)

TEACHER’S AID: Artificial intelligence delivered advances to the U.S. space program and to medicine decades before it made headlines. Now, AI is poised to bring major improvements to American education, tech entrepreneur Alex Galvagni said in an exclusive interview in New York City with Fox News Digital.

AI BOOM COMING? Apple’s artificial intelligence features will push consumers to seek iPhone upgrades and be a boon for future sales, some analysts projected. “We believe Apple’s AI strategy will leverage its golden installed base around personalization and LLMs [large language models] on the phone that should change the growth trajectory of Cupertino as spur an AI driven iPhone upgrade cycle starting with iPhone 16,” Wedbush Securities analyst Daniel Ives said in a research note after WWDC. 

Apple made a major artificial intelligence announcement this week. (Stanislav Kogiku/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

POPE’S AI WARNING: Pope Francis delivered the first-ever papal address at a G-7 conference on Friday, warning about the ethical pitfalls of artificial intelligence. The pope told the council of world leaders in Fasano, Italy, that AI offers immense benefit to the human race, but also threatens to dehumanize society.

Pope Francis delivers remarks as French President Emmanuel Macron (L), Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni (R) and President Biden (bottom, back turned) take part in a working session on Artificial Intelligence, Energy, Africa-Mediterranean at the Borgo Egnazia resort during the G7 Summit in Savelletri near Bari, Italy, on June 14, 2024.  (LUDOVIC MARIN/AFP via Getty Images)

MUSK MOVES: Billionaire Elon Musk moved to drop his lawsuit against artificial intelligence (AI) firm OpenAI that accused the company of abandoning its original mission of developing AI for the benefit of humanity rather than financial profit.

Subscribe now to get the Fox News Artificial Intelligence Newsletter in your inbox. 

FOLLOW FOX NEWS ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Facebook
Instagram
YouTube
Twitter
LinkedIn

SIGN UP FOR OUR OTHER NEWSLETTERS

Fox News First
Fox News Opinion
Fox News Lifestyle
Fox News Health

DOWNLOAD OUR APPS

Fox News
Fox Business
Fox Weather
Fox Sports
Tubi

WATCH FOX NEWS ONLINE

Fox News Go

STREAM FOX NATION

Fox Nation

Stay up to date on the latest AI technology advancements and learn about the challenges and opportunities AI presents now and for the future with Fox News here.