A massive online leak has exposed more than 183 million stolen email passwords gathered from years of malware infections, phishing campaigns and older data breaches. Cybersecurity experts say it is one of the largest compilations of stolen credentials ever discovered.

Security researcher Troy Hunt, who runs the website Have I Been Pwned, found the 3.5-terabyte dataset online. The credentials came from infostealer malware and credential stuffing lists. This malware secretly collects usernames, passwords and website logins from infected devices.

Researchers say the data contains both old and newly discovered credentials. Hunt confirmed that 91% of the data had appeared in previous breaches, but about 16.4 million email addresses were completely new to any known dataset.

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DISCORD CONFIRMS VENDOR BREACH EXPOSED USER IDS IN RANSOM PLOT

Cyber experts uncovered a 3.5-terabyte data dump containing millions of stolen logins. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

The real risk behind the password leak

The leak puts millions of users at risk. Hackers often collect stolen logins from multiple sources and combine them into large databases that circulate on dark web forums, Telegram channels and Discord servers.

If you have reused passwords across multiple sites, attackers can use this data to break into your accounts through credential stuffing. This method tests stolen username and password pairs on many different platforms.

The risk remains real for anyone using old or repeated credentials. One compromised password can unlock social media, banking and cloud accounts.

GOOGLE CONFIRMS DATA STOLEN IN BREACH BY KNOWN HACKER GROUP

Researcher Troy Hunt traced the leak to malware that secretly steals passwords from infected devices. (Jens Büttner/picture alliance via Getty Images)

Google responds to the reports

Google confirmed there was no Gmail data breach. In a post on X, the company stated “reports of a Gmail security breach impacting millions of users are false. Gmail’s defenses are strong, and users remain protected.”

Google clarified that the leak came from infostealer databases that compile years of stolen credentials from across the web. These databases are often mistaken for new breaches when, in fact, they represent ongoing theft activity. Troy Hunt also confirmed the dataset originated from Synthient’s collection of infostealer logs, not from a single platform or recent attack. While no new breach occurred, experts warn that leaked credentials remain dangerous because cybercriminals reuse them for future attacks.

How to check if you were exposed

To see if your email was affected, visit Have I Been Pwned. It is the first and official source for this newly added dataset. Enter your email address to find out if your information appears in the Synthient leak.

Many password managers also include built-in breach scanners that use the same data sources. However, they may not yet include this new collection until their databases update.

If your address shows up, treat it as compromised. Change your passwords immediately and turn on stronger security features to protect your accounts.

COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY DATA BREACH HITS 870,000 PEOPLE

The 183 million exposed credentials came from malware, phishing and old data breaches. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

9 steps to protect yourself now

Protecting your online life starts with consistent action. Each step below adds another layer of defense against hackers, malware and credential theft.

1) Change your passwords immediately

Start with your most important accounts, such as email and banking. Use strong, unique passwords with letters, numbers and symbols. Avoid predictable choices like names or birthdays. 

Never reuse passwords. One stolen password can unlock multiple accounts. Each login should be unique to protect your data.

A password manager makes this simple. It stores complex passwords securely and helps you create new ones. Many managers also scan for breaches to see if your current passwords have been exposed.

Next, check whether your email has been caught in a recent credential leak. Our No. 1 password manager pick includes a built-in Breach Scanner that searches trusted databases, including the newly added Synthient data from Have I Been Pwned. It helps you find out if your email or passwords have appeared in any known leaks. If you see a match, change any reused passwords right away and secure those accounts with strong, unique credentials.

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

2) Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)

Turn on 2FA wherever possible. It adds a powerful second layer of defense that blocks intruders even if they have your password. You will receive a code by text, app or security key. That code ensures only you can log in to your accounts.

3) Use an identity theft service for continuous monitoring

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. It’s a smart way to stay one step ahead of hackers.

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

4) Protect your devices with strong antivirus software 

Infostealer malware hides inside fake downloads and phishing attachments. A strong antivirus software scans your devices to stop threats before they spread. Keep your antivirus updated and run frequent scans. Even one unprotected device can put your whole digital life at risk.

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) Avoid saving logins in your web browser

Browsers are convenient but risky. Infostealer malware often targets saved passwords in your web browser. 

6) Keep software updated

Updates fix security flaws that hackers exploit. Turn on automatic updates for your operating system, antivirus and apps. Staying current keeps threats out. 

7) Download only from trusted sources

Avoid unknown websites that offer free downloads. Fake apps and files often contain hidden malware. Use official app stores or verified company websites. 

8) Review your account activity often

Check your accounts regularly for unusual logins or device connections. Many platforms show a login history. If something looks off, change your password and enable 2FA immediately.

9) Consider a personal data removal service

The massive leak of 183 million credentials shows just how far your personal information can spread and how easily it can resurface years later in aggregated hacker databases. Even if your passwords were part of an old breach, data like your name, email, phone number or address may still be available through data broker sites. Personal data removal services can help reduce your exposure by scrubbing this information from hundreds of these sites.

While no service can guarantee total removal, they drastically reduce your digital footprint, making it harder for scammers to cross-reference leaked credentials with public data to impersonate or target you. These services monitor and automatically remove your personal info over time, which gives me peace of mind in today’s threat landscape.

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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Kurt’s key takeaways

This leak highlights the ongoing danger of malware and password reuse. Prevention remains the best defense. Use unique passwords, enable 2FA and stay alert to keep your data safe. Visit Have I Been Pwned today to check your email and take action. The faster you respond, the better you protect your identity.

Have you ever discovered your data in a breach? What did you do next? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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You plug in your phone overnight, but by lunchtime, it’s already gasping for charge. Sound familiar? Hidden background features, sneaky settings and apps you forgot existed can quietly drain your battery faster than you think. The good news is a few quick tweaks can help your device stay powered all day, without sacrificing performance or convenience.

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1) Turn off background app refresh

Stop apps from sapping power when you’re not using them. Even when you’re not actively scrolling or tapping, many apps continue running in the background, fetching updates, refreshing data and sending notifications. It’s convenient, but it drains your battery faster than you realize.

For iPhone 

• Go to Settings.
• Tap General.
• Click Background App Refresh.
• Tap Background App Refresh again.
• Select Off, or choose Wi-Fi to limit data use and battery drain.
• You can also toggle off refresh for individual apps if you still want certain ones to run.

WHY WI-FI CALLING MAY BE KILLING YOUR PHONE’S BATTERY LIFE

Stop background apps from quietly draining your battery. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

For Android 

Settings may vary, depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer. 

• Open Settings.
• Tap Battery (or Battery & device care, Power management, or similar).
• Select Background usage limits, App battery management, or Battery optimization, wording depends on your device.
• Choose the apps you rarely use, then set them to Restricted or Optimized, or Put unused apps to sleep.
• To let Android manage this automatically, turn on Adaptive Battery (found under Settings › Battery › Adaptive Battery).

Pro tip: Keep essential apps, such as messaging, navigation, or weather, active so they can update in real time. Restricting background activity for apps you don’t open often can extend battery life by several hours a day.

5 PHONE SETTINGS TO CHANGE RIGHT NOW FOR A SAFER SMARTPHONE

Turn off background refresh to stop unused apps from quietly draining your battery. (Kurt Knutsson)

2) Disable Always-in Display

That sleek clock on your screen might look cool, but it’s constantly using power. Always-On Display keeps your screen partially lit, even when you’re not touching it, to show time, notifications or widgets. Over time, that adds up, especially overnight.

For iPhone (14 Pro and later)

• Go to Settings.
• Tap Display & Brightness.
• Click Always On Display.
• Toggle Off next to Always On Display to stop your phone from lighting up when locked.

For Android

Settings may vary, depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer. 

• Open Settings.
• Tap Lock screen (sometimes labeled “Lock screen & security,” “Lock screen & AOD,” “Display & lock screen,” etc.).
• Look for Always On Display (AOD) (or similar, such as “Always show time & info”, “Ambient display”, “Screen always on when locked”).
• Toggle Off to disable the AOD entirely, or choose an alternative mode (for example: “Tap to show” / “Show on tap” so the AOD only appears when you tap the screen) if available.
• (Optional) Some devices allow scheduling of AOD or limiting it to when notifications are present. If you want more control, explore the sub-options under the AOD setting.

Turning off Always-On Display can extend standby battery life by up to 10 to 15%.

YOUR PHONE IS TRACKING YOU EVEN WHEN YOU THINK IT’S NOT

Turn off Always-On Display to save more power each day.  (SeongJoon Cho/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

3) Limit location access

GPS is one of the biggest hidden battery drains. Apps that track your location in the background, from ride-sharing to retail, can quietly sap your phone’s power even when you’re not using them. Adjusting permissions keeps your phone secure and efficient.

For iPhone 

• Go to Settings.
• Tap Privacy & Security.
• Click Location Services.
• Tap each app individually and change Always to While Using the App or Never.
• Now, scroll to the bottom and tap System Services.
• Tap Significant Locations, then toggle it Off to stop your iPhone from storing detailed location and travel history. (You can also tap “Clear History” here to erase past entries.)

For Android 

Settings may vary, depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer.

• Open Settings.
• Tap Location (or sometimes Privacy & Security → Location).
• Tap App permissions (or App location permissions, Location permissions for apps).
• Select an app, then choose the appropriate permission, such as “Allow only while using the app” (or “Allow only when in use”) or “Don’t allow” (or “Deny”).
• On the same screen (for that app), you may see a toggle for “Use precise location”. If the app doesn’t need GPS accuracy, toggle Off to let it use only an approximate location.

Apps like Maps and Weather need access, but most don’t. Tightening this setting not only boosts battery life, it also improves your privacy by limiting background tracking.

Pro tip: Leaving essential features like Find My iPhone or Emergency Calls & SOS enabled under System Services ensures your phone can still help locate or protect you if it’s lost, even with other location options turned off.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Limit location tracking to protect privacy and extend battery life. (Fernando Gutierrez-Juarez/picture alliance via Getty Images)

4) Turn off Raise to Wake and Tap to Wake

Ever notice your screen lighting up when you simply pick up your phone? Those quick flashes add up. Every time your display activates — even for a second, it consumes battery power. Turning off these motion-activated features can reduce unnecessary screen wake-ups.

For iPhone

• Go to Settings.
• Tap Display & Brightness.
• Turn off Raise to Wake.

For Android 

Settings may vary, depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer.

• Open Settings.
• Tap Display (or Lock screen & security, or Advanced features, depending on your device).
• Look for Lift/ Raise to wake, Tap to wake, or Double tap to wake (sometimes found under Gestures or Motion settings).
• Turn off “Lift/Raise to wake” and “Tap/Double tap to wake” (or choose to disable whichever is active).
• If you want a simpler way to wake your phone only when you intend to, rely on the power-button wake (which is the default on nearly all phones).

5) Review battery usage and spot the culprits

If your phone is dying faster than usual, the Battery Usage tool can reveal the exact cause. You’ll see which apps are using the most power, both on screen and in the background, so you can take action.

For iPhone

• Go to Settings.
• Tap Battery.
• Scroll to view the battery usage graph and list of apps and system processes that are using power.
• Look for any highlighted items (indicating unusually high usage).
• Tap an app or process to view more details about its usage and background activity.
• If you notice an app draining power in the background on an ongoing basis, consider limiting its background activity or uninstalling it if it’s not needed.

For Android 

Settings may vary, depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer.

• Open Settings.
• Tap Battery (or Battery & device care, Power & battery, depending on your device).
• Tap Battery usage or Battery usage by app (or similar).
• Look through the list of apps and sort or filter by App usage or Screen time, if available, to identify top battery consumers.
• Tap a high-drain app, then choose something like Restrict background usage, Optimize, or Disallow background activity (depending on the options your phone offers).

Common battery-draining culprits include social media apps, streaming apps, location-based apps and apps with heavy background update behavior. Reviewing this every few weeks can help catch new drains early. 

Bonus: Check your battery health

If your phone still drains quickly after these fixes, your battery might be aging. Both iPhones and Android devices offer built-in diagnostics to check battery health and capacity.

For iPhone

• Go to Settings.
• Tap Battery.
• Tap Battery Health & Charging (on some older versions, it may simply be “Battery Health”).
• On the Battery Health screen, look at the Maximum Capacity percentage. This tells you how the battery’s current capacity compares to when it was new.
• If the percentage is well below ~80%, it may be a good time to replace the battery to restore performance and capacity. (Apple notes that batteries are designed to retain around 80 % of their original capacity at 500 full charge cycles under ideal conditions.)

For Android

Settings may vary, depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer.

• Go to Settings.
• Tap Battery (or “Battery & device care,” “Power & battery,” depending on your phone).
• Look for an option called Battery health, Battery capacity, Battery status or Battery Information. Note: this may not appear on all phones.
• If the built-in health indicator isn’t available, you can open the hidden test menu by dialing *#*#4636#*#* in the Phone app. If “Battery information” appears, you may see stats such as health, capacity, or cycle count.
• If your battery health or capacity is shown as “Reduced” or significantly lower than expected, consider replacing the battery for better performance and longevity.

Replacing an aging battery can dramatically improve performance and lifespan, often more than any software tweak.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

With a few quick tweaks, your phone can finally keep up with you all day. Adjusting settings, limiting background activity and checking battery health really do make a difference. You’ll spend less time stressing about a low battery and more time actually using your phone. Stay proactive, and your device will stay powered when you need it most.

Got a tip you’d like to share, and/or what other everyday tech challenges would you like help solving? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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A new safety evaluation shows the Kodiak Driver, an autonomous system from Kodiak AI, tied for the top safety score among more than 1,000 commercial fleets run by human drivers. The evaluation came from Nauto, Inc., creator of the Visually Enhanced Risk Assessment, or VERA Score. This system uses AI to measure fleet safety on a scale of 1 to 100.

The Kodiak Driver earned a remarkable score of 98. That result placed it beside the safest human fleets in Nauto’s global network. The findings sparked discussion across the trucking industry and raised new questions about the role of automation in freight transport.

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WILL AUTONOMOUS TRUCKS REPLACE DRIVERS BY 2027?

The Kodiak Driver, an autonomous trucking system powered by AI, earned a top VERA Score of 98 in a new safety evaluation. (Kodiak)

Kodiak Driver’s autonomous truck safety evaluation results

Kodiak’s VERA Score of 98 matched the highest rating among all fleets evaluated. Fleets with Nauto’s safety technology average a score of 78, while those without the technology average only 63.

The Kodiak Driver achieved perfect scores of 100 in inattentive driving, high-risk driving and traffic violations. Its lowest score, 95, came in aggressive driving. The VERA Score combines over 20 vision-based AI variables into one clear safety rating.

Nauto found that every ten-point increase in VERA Score cuts collision risk by about 21 percent. A near-perfect score like Kodiak’s represents a strong improvement over typical human performance on the road.

The strong results didn’t come as a surprise to Kodiak’s leadership. Don Burnette, founder and CEO of Kodiak, told CyberGuy: “Achieving the top safety score among more than 1,000 commercial fleets in Nauto’s Visually Enhanced Risk Assessment (VERA Score®) proprietary safety benchmark is a testament to the Kodiak’s focus on safety. Safety is at the foundation of everything Kodiak builds. Our core value is ‘safety first and always.’ We believe independent safety evaluations like Nauto’s help to validate what we already know: the Kodiak Driver is already among the safest drivers on American highways. They also help to establish and build public awareness around how safe our technology truly is.”

FOX NEWS AI NEWSLETTER: TRUMP, MUSK AIM FOR DOMINANCE

The growing impact of AI on truck driving safety

Nauto equipped the trucks with advanced monitoring and hazard detection systems. These tools track both the driving environment and vehicle behavior in real time. Removing human factors such as distraction, fatigue and delayed reaction directly improves safety.

Burnette said in a company statement that the system “is never drowsy, never drunk, and always paying attention.” That constant awareness allows the Kodiak Driver to operate defensively and predictably, two traits linked to safe driving.

The VERA Score also gives fleets a consistent way to measure safety. Companies can now shift from reacting to crashes to preventing them.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration data support the trend. U.S. commercial truck crashes dropped from more than 124,000 in 2024 to roughly 104,000 this year. Fewer crashes mean fewer fatalities and safer highways overall.

Kodiak’s self-driving trucks combine AI vision and real-time data to reduce risky behavior and improve on-road performance. (Kodiak)

THE ROAD TO PROSPERITY WILL BE PAVED BY AUTONOMOUS TRUCKING

Concerns about autonomous truck safety

Not everyone is ready to hand over the wheel to artificial intelligence. Some industry experts point out that while systems like the Kodiak Driver perform well in controlled evaluations, real-world roads can still pose unpredictable challenges. Weather, human drivers and mechanical issues remain complex variables for autonomous systems to manage.

Others worry about the impact on jobs. As AI takes on more driving responsibilities, professional drivers wonder what the shift will mean for employment and pay across the trucking industry.

Safety advocates also call for clearer regulations and public transparency.

Even supporters of the technology agree that continued oversight, testing and gradual rollout are essential. Progress is promising, but trust takes time.

AI DRONE FINDS MISSING HIKER’S REMAINS IN MOUNTAINS AFTER 10 MONTHS

What this means for you

If you work in logistics, fleet management or transportation tech, this news hits close to home. The Kodiak Driver’s near-perfect score proves that autonomous systems aren’t just catching up to human drivers; they’re starting to edge ahead in safety.

Businesses could see big gains. AI-powered safety tools help cut liability, lower costs and keep fleets running smoothly. The technology doesn’t need rest breaks or reminders to stay focused, which makes every mile more efficient.

Regulators are also paying attention. Verified data like this builds trust and clears the way for safer, wider use of autonomous trucks. It’s proof that technology can deliver real-world safety, not just promise it.

Drivers on everyday roads benefit too. Fewer crashes mean safer highways and more reliable deliveries. When trucks drive smarter, everyone shares the reward. Human drivers aren’t going anywhere soon, but AI is quickly becoming their most reliable partner. It helps prevent fatigue, distraction and those risky split-second decisions that lead to trouble.

AI-driven fleets are proving that technology and human expertise can work together to make highways safer for everyone. (PlusAI)

TESLA’S SELF-DRIVING CARS UNDER FIRE AGAIN

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Kurt’s key takeaways

This study marks a major step in redefining what safe driving means. An autonomous system equaling the best human fleets signals that automation is moving from theory to reality. Still, the shift raises questions. How soon will public trust catch up with technology? Can regulations evolve fast enough to support widespread adoption? Will drivers adapt to sharing the road with machines that never tire or lose focus? What remains certain is that safety innovation is transforming transportation. Autonomous systems like the Kodiak Driver are proving that technology and safety can move forward together.

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So here’s something to think about: If AI-driven trucks already match the safest human fleets, are we ready to let them take the wheel on our highways? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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If you’re over 50 and maxing out your 401(k), there’s a big change coming in 2026 that could affect how much tax you pay on your “catch-up contributions.” While it’s mostly about taxes and retirement planning, there’s an unexpected side effect: scammers are circling. Every time your financial habits or personal data become public, it’s a chance for fraudsters to try to exploit you. Here’s what’s changing, why it matters, and how to protect yourself before the scammers come knocking.

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What’s changing with 401(k) catch-up contributions

REMOVE YOUR DATA TO PROTECT YOUR RETIREMENT FROM SCAMMERS

Right now, if you’re over 50, you can make extra contributions to your 401(k) on top of the standard annual limit ($23,500 in 2025). These “catch-up” contributions are typically tax-deferred, meaning the money comes out of your paycheck before tax and grows tax-free until retirement.

But starting in 2026, for anyone earning more than $145,000 in the previous year, these catch-up contributions will no longer be tax-deferred. Instead, they’ll become like the Roth 401(k), meaning you pay taxes on the money now, but it grows tax-free and can be withdrawn tax-free in retirement.

That sounds simple, but it creates a ripple effect:

• High earners will see less take-home pay now.
• Tax planning gets trickier, and some people may consider restructuring their accounts or investment strategies.
• And, most importantly for CyberGuy readers: these changes create new opportunities for scammers.

Big 401(k) changes in 2026 could leave retirees exposed to new scam risks. (Cyberguy.com)

Why the new rules could attract scammers

FBI WARNS SENIORS ABOUT BILLION-DOLLAR SCAM DRAINING RETIREMENT FUNDS, EXPERT SAYS AI DRIVING IT

Scammers constantly look for financially active retirees. When rules like this change, fraudsters send out emails, calls, or letters pretending to be financial advisors, IRS agents, or plan administrators. Their goal? To trick you into giving away account numbers, Social Security details, or direct-deposit information.

Some common scam tactics to watch for:

• Fake “plan update” emails claiming you need to verify your 401(k) contributions due to the law change.
• Roth conversion scam calls claiming you can “avoid extra taxes” by transferring your account through a third-party “advisor.”
• Urgency and fear tactics, such as “Act now, or lose your retirement benefits!”

Even savvy retirees can be caught off guard, especially when the message sounds official and references real tax law changes.

How to protect yourself from 401(k) scams and data theft

NATIONAL PROGRAM HELPS SENIORS SPOT SCAMS AS LOSSES SURGE

With new 401(k) rule changes taking effect, scammers are using the confusion to trick retirees and workers alike. Follow these steps to stay alert, safeguard your savings, and protect your personal data from being stolen or misused.

1) Know the legitimate changes

Start by understanding Secure 2.0 and how catch-up contributions will be taxed. Reliable sources include your plan administrator, the IRS website, or a licensed tax advisor. Staying informed helps you spot fake claims before they cause harm.

2) Use a personal data removal service

For retirees, this extra layer of protection keeps sensitive information out of reach from scammers who exploit tax changes, Roth conversions, and retirement updates. While you can manually opt out of data brokers and track your information, that process takes time and effort. A personal data removal service automates the task by contacting over 420 data brokers on your behalf. It also reissues removal requests if your data reappears and shows you a dashboard of confirmed removals.

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

Scammers are already targeting retirees with fake “account update” alerts. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

HOW TO SECURE YOUR 401(K) PLAN FROM IDENTITY FRAUD

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3) Verify every call and email, plus use antivirus software

If you get a call or email about your 401(k), don’t assume it’s real. Hang up or delete it, then contact your plan administrator directly using official contact details. Avoid clicking links or downloading attachments from unknown messages.

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) Monitor your credit and accounts

Cybercriminals often use personal information from earlier data leaks or data brokers. Watch your credit reports and account activity closely. Early detection can stop suspicious transactions before they escalate.

HOW SCAMMERS EXPLOIT YOUR DATA FOR ‘PRE-APPROVED’ RETIREMENT SCAMS

5) Set up alerts and freezes if necessary

Ask your bank and retirement plan to enable transaction alerts. You can also temporarily freeze your credit to prevent anyone from opening new accounts in your name. This is especially useful during times of financial change.

6) Educate friends and family

Scammers often target retirees and their relatives who help manage finances. Remind your loved ones never to share account details over the phone or email. Protecting everyone in your household keeps scammers from finding weak links.

Stay safe by confirming any 401(k) changes directly with your plan provider. (uchar/Getty Images)

Kurt’s key takeaways

As 2026 approaches, the new 401(k) rule changes will reshape how millions of Americans manage their retirement savings. Staying informed, cautious, and proactive can protect your financial future. Scammers thrive on confusion, but by verifying information, monitoring your accounts, and removing your personal data from risky sites, you can stay one step ahead. Remember, the more control you take over your privacy, the harder it becomes for criminals to exploit it.

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Have you taken steps to see where your personal data is exposed, and what did you find most surprising when you checked? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com

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