0.5 C
New York
Sunday, February 15, 2026
Home Blog Page 68

State Department aware after American tourists attacked, 1 killed, in Portugal

0

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

The State Department told Fox News that it is aware of reports Wednesday that two American tourists were attacked in a popular European seaside destination that local media and police said left one person dead and another wounded.

The alleged attack happened early Wednesday in Cascais, Portugal, a coastal resort town about 20 miles west of Lisbon. 

Video taken by Reuters showed blood stains on a sidewalk, where a stabbing had taken place during an attempted robbery, according to media reports.

A State Department spokesperson told Fox News Digital that the agency takes seriously its commitment to protect U.S. citizens abroad and stands ready to provide consular assistance. 

AMERICAN STABBED DEFENDING WOMEN ON GERMAN TRAM CRITICIZES IMMIGRATION POLICIES AFTER SUSPECT RELEASED

The street in Cascais, Portugal, where the U.S. tourists were allegedly attacked on Wednesday. (Reuters)

“One of the young men died at the scene and the other suffered injuries to his face and arms and was taken to [a] hospital,” the Portugal Resident newspaper cited the Lisbon Metropolitan Command police force as saying.

The attack was carried out by three suspects who fled the scene in a vehicle, the newspaper added.

Street in the town of Cascais, Portugal

A State Department spokesperson told Fox News the agency is aware of reports that two American tourists were stabbed on Wednesday, in Cascais, Portugal. (Reuters)

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP 

Further details about the incident and the identities of the victims were not immediately available. 

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates. 

Fox News’ Nick Kalman contributed to this report.

AI sensors in road fabric could prevent costly repairs before damage

0


NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

Road crews may soon get a major assist from artificial intelligence. Researchers at Germany’s Fraunhofer Institute have developed a fabric embedded with sensors and AI algorithms that can monitor road conditions from beneath the surface. This smart material could make costly, disruptive road repairs far more efficient and sustainable.

Right now, most resurfacing decisions are based on visible damage. But cracks and wear in the layers below the asphalt often go undetected until it’s too late. That’s where Fraunhofer’s innovation comes in.

Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide — free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM/NEWSLETTER

How AI road sensors work to prevent costly repairs

The system uses a fabric made from flax fibers interwoven with ultra-thin conductive wires. These wires detect minute changes in the asphalt base layer, signaling potential damage before it reaches the surface.

THE ROAD TO PROSPERITY WILL BE PAVED BY AUTONOMOUS TRUCKING

Road construction machine spreads fresh asphalt as researchers test AI sensors for detecting subsurface damage.

Fraunhofer researchers test AI sensors that detect road damage beneath the surface.  (Fraunhofer Institute)

Once the fabric is laid under the road, it continuously collects data. A connected unit on the roadside stores and transmits this data to an AI system that analyzes it for early warning signs. As vehicles pass over the road, the system measures changes in resistance within the fabric. These changes reveal how the base layer is performing and whether cracks or strain are forming beneath the surface.

Why AI road monitoring matters for future maintenance

Traditional road inspection methods rely on drilling or taking core samples, which are destructive, costly and only provide information for a small section of pavement. This AI-driven system eliminates the need for that kind of invasive testing.

Instead of reacting to surface damage, transportation agencies could predict and prevent deterioration before it becomes expensive to fix. The approach could extend road life, cut down on traffic delays and help governments spend infrastructure funds more efficiently.

ULTRA-THIN SOUND BLOCKER CUTS TRAFFIC NOISE DRAMATICALLY

Close-up of new asphalt layer over smart flax-fiber fabric used to detect stress and cracks in roads.

The smart flax-fiber fabric measures stress changes in asphalt to spot cracks early. (Fraunhofer Institute)

How AI and sensor data predict road damage early

The real power comes from combining AI algorithms with continuous sensor feedback. Fraunhofer’s machine-learning software can forecast how damage will spread, helping engineers prioritize which roads need maintenance first. Data from the sensors is displayed on a web-based dashboard, offering a clear visual of road health for local agencies and planners.

The project, called SenAD2, is currently being tested in an industrial zone in Germany. Early results suggest the system can identify internal damage without disrupting traffic or damaging the road itself.

What this means for you

Smarter road monitoring could lead to fewer potholes, smoother commutes and less taxpayer money wasted on inefficient repairs. If adopted widely, cities could plan maintenance years in advance, avoiding the cycle of patchwork fixes that often make driving a daily headache.

For drivers, it means less time sitting in construction zones. For local governments, it means better roads built on data, not guesswork.

WILL AUTONOMOUS TRUCKS REPLACE DRIVERS BY 2027?

San Francisco public workers repair pothole

San Francisco Department of Public Works worker Chris Solorzano uses a grading rake to smooth over asphalt as he repairs a pot hole on March 24, 2023, in San Francisco. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

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

This breakthrough shows how AI and materials science are merging to solve real-world infrastructure challenges. While the system won’t make roads indestructible, it can make maintaining them smarter, safer and more sustainable.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Would you trust AI to decide when and where your city repaves the roads? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide — free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter.

Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com.  All rights reserved.  



Source link

Holiday charity scams target retirees with fake donation requests

0


NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

The holidays are supposed to be a season of generosity, family and giving back. For many retirees, October through December is the time to support causes close to their hearts, whether it’s helping veterans, feeding families or donating to disaster relief. But there’s a darker side to this generosity. Scammers know that retirees are among the most generous members of our communities, and they exploit that kindness to line their own pockets.

Millions of dollars are stolen through fake “charities” that pop up just before the holidays. Their calls, letters and emails look legitimate, but the money never reaches those in need. Instead, it funds criminals who are ready to strike again.

Here’s what every retiree (and their loved ones) should know about holiday charity scams and how to protect their money, identity and peace of mind.

HOW RETIREES CAN STOP FAKE DEBT COLLECTOR SCAMS

Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide — free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter.

An elderly man purchasing something with his credit card online

Scammers mimic real charities to pressure retirees into quick donations. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Why retirees are prime targets for fake charities

Retirees often give more generously than other groups. Scammers know this, and they know how to tailor their pitch.

  • Emotional appeals: Fraudsters will mention children, veterans or natural disaster victims to tug at heartstrings.
  • Polite persistence: Retirees tend to answer calls and engage longer on the phone, which scammers see as an opportunity.
  • Data exposure: Your name, age, phone number and even donation history can already be found online through data brokers. That means scammers don’t need to guess; they target you because they know you’ve donated before.

When you combine generosity with publicly available data, scammers see retirees as the “perfect donors.”

HOW SCAMMERS TARGET YOU EVEN WITHOUT SOCIAL MEDIA

Fake charity red flags

How do you know if a charity request is real or just a scam dressed up for the holidays? Look for these warning signs:

  • Pressure to act fast: If a caller insists you donate “right now” or tries to guilt you into giving before you hang up, it’s likely a scam. Real charities welcome donations anytime.
  • No details about how money is used: Authentic charities can explain where funds go. Scammers use vague promises like “helping the needy” without specifics.
  • Untraceable payment methods: Requests for gift cards, wire transfers or peer-to-peer app transfers (like Venmo or Zelle) are instant red flags.
  • Lookalike names: Fraudsters often invent names that sound similar to well-known charities, like “Veterans Hope Relief” or “Children’s Aid International.”
  • Caller ID tricks: Scammers can spoof numbers to make it look like they’re calling from a local area code or even a real charity office.

How to safely check a charity before donating

Here’s how to protect yourself while still supporting the causes that matter to you:

  • Research the charity’s name: Before donating, search it on sites like Charity Navigator or the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance at give.org/. If it doesn’t appear there, that’s a red flag.
  • Ask for written information: Real organizations will happily mail or email details about their mission, budgets and how donations are used.
  • Verify tax-exempt status: Use the IRS Tax-Exempt Organization Search at Irs.gov/charities-and-nonprofits to confirm the charity is legitimate.
  • Check how much goes to the cause: Some charities are real but inefficient, spending more on salaries than programs. Make sure your donation actually helps.

REMOVE YOUR DATA TO PROTECT YOUR RETIREMENT FROM SCAMMERS

Protecting your payment details

Even if the charity itself is real, you need to protect how you give:

  • Use a credit card rather than a debit card because credit cards offer stronger fraud protection.
  • Never give payment info over the phone if you didn’t initiate the call.
  • Donate through the charity’s official website instead of clicking links in unsolicited emails.
  • Keep records of your donations for tax purposes and to spot anything suspicious later.
Elderly woman bakes holiday treat with children.

The elderly must stay vigilant as holiday charity scams target older donors.  (iStock)

Why removing your data online reduces charity scam calls

Here’s something most people don’t realize: many charity scams start with data brokers. These companies collect your personal details, such as age, phone number, donation history and even religious or political leanings, and sell them to anyone who asks. That means fraudsters can buy a ready-made list of “generous retirees who donate to veterans’ causes” and start calling immediately. The more information out there about you, the more personalized and convincing scam calls become. That’s why removing your data from broker sites is one of the most powerful defenses available to you.

The easy way to do it

Manually contacting hundreds of data brokers is a never-ending task. Each one has its own forms, emails, and hoops to jump through, and many will re-add you months later. That’s where a data removal service comes in. They automatically reach out to data brokers on your behalf, demand the removal of your personal info and keep following up so it doesn’t creep back online.

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.

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

A person types on a computer.

Protect your personal information by donating only through verified official websites. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Kurt’s key takeaways

The holidays should be about joy, generosity and giving back, not about lining the pockets of fraudsters. By spotting the red flags of fake charities, double-checking where your money goes and removing your personal information from online databases, you can keep your donations safe and make sure they reach the people who truly need them. Remember: protecting your generosity is just as important as sharing it.

Have you ever been contacted by a fake charity during the holidays? What tipped you off? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide — free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter.

Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com.  All rights reserved.  



Source link

Brussels Airport cancels flights amid nationwide strikes, protests over austerity measures

0

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

Nationwide strikes and protests over Belgium’s reform plans caused flight disruptions at two major airports and troubles on public transport on Tuesday, with police there using tear gas and a water cannon to try to disperse crowds, The Associated Press reported. 

Minor scuffles broke out between police and protesters, some of whom played drums and horns and set off flares and smoke bombs as they chanted against cuts to social welfare programs. The unusually large protest crippled traffic in the heart of the Belgian capital, blocking major roads. Strikes led to the cancellation of many flights. 

Organizers estimated more than 150,000 people joined the demonstration, while the police put the crowd at 80,000.

‘IT’S NUTS’: SKY-HIGH LAS VEGAS PRICES STUN VISITORS AS TRAVEL PRO GIVES TIPS TO FIGHT BACK

Police vehicles were seen chasing protesters. Officers who were out of uniform but identified by their red arm bands detained protesters, tying their hands with plastic bands. 

At one point, police officers on bicycles sheltered inside a hotel from a large group of protesters.

Belgium’s nationwide strikes over reform plans drew over 80,000 protesters in Brussels, forcing major disruptions at airports and blocking major roadways.  (AP Photo/Sylvain Plazy)

The protesters have been demonstrating across Brussels center, between Gare du Nord and Gare du Midi train stations, Reuters reported. 

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

The protest was organized by Belgium’s three major trade organizations.  

As the demonstrators blocked busy roads, about 25 people were detained by police for setting fires on Brussels’ populated boulevards, according to Reuters.

“We unfortunately expect major disruptions to our airport operations.”

The Brussels Airport issued a warning to flyers that departing passenger flights might be canceled. 

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

“Due to the national industrial action on Tuesday 14 October in which the staff of the security service provider is participating, we unfortunately expect major disruptions to our airport operations on that day,” the airport posted on their website. 

brussels airport empty

The Brussels Airport, pictured, issued a warning to flyers that departing passenger flights might be canceled due to protests and strikes.  (AP Photo/Virginia Mayo)

In 2024, a total of 23.6 passengers traveled through Brussels Airport, according to its website.

The second-largest airport in the European country, Charleroi Airport, has also canceled flights due to lack of staff. 

CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES

Brussels Airport was in consultation with airlines in an attempt to persuade them not to operate any departing flights on Tuesday, Reuters reported. 

brussels major roads closed over protests

Protesters block a major roadway in Brussels, Belgium.  (AP Photo/Harry Nakos)

“As departing passenger flights are canceled, cancellations are also possible on some arriving flights,” said the airport.

Major air carrier Brussels Airlines heeded the call, writing, “We are forced to cancel all departing flights and a significant number of arriving flights that day.”

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

The airport said it expected a “busy day” on Wednesday.

The Associated Press and Reuters contributed reporting. 

Gold coins found by UK couple in garden set to auction for six-figure sum

0

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

A British family uncovered a treasure trove in their own backyard — and now it’s going under the hammer for a whopping six-figure sum.

The lot is being sold by coin dealer David Guest Numismatics. It will be auctioned in Zurich, Switzerland, on Nov. 5., and is expected to fetch more than £230,000, or roughly $308,000 U.S. dollars. 

Coin specialist David Guest told Fox News Digital the hoard was found by a Hampshire couple in Milford on Sea in April 2020.

RARE ANCIENT GOLD DISCOVERY MADE BY FLORIDA STUDENT AT ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE

The couple was adjusting a fence next to one of their backyard flower beds when the husband spotted a lump of “clayey soil,” Guest said.

“In total, they recovered 64 coins,” he added. “A further six coins were found by archaeologists in Oct. 2021.”

A couple stumbled on a hidden stash of gold coins while working in their backyard garden. (iStock; David Guest Numismatics)

At first, the soil appeared to contain thin metal discs. But when the couple’s teenage son washed the lump of material under the garden tap, the family realized there were gold coins present. 

The numismatist said the hoard was buried in the late 1530s, when its value was 26 pounds, 5 shillings and 5-1/2 pence.

“I am very confident that the total price realized will be significantly more than the pre-sale estimate.”

“This was a considerable amount of money at the time,” noted Guest. “It has been calculated that in rural England in the 1530s, the average property price was £25.”

He added the hoard was likely buried due to political instability in England during the Reformation.

ANCIENT CIVILIZATION’S GOLD COINS, LUXURY ARTIFACTS UNEARTHED DURING ‘UNPRECEDENTED’ DIG

“While we will never know why and by whom the hoard was buried, it was almost certainly concealed during the tumultuous first phase of the English Reformation when Henry VIII was dissolving England’s ancient monasteries and appropriating much of the wealth of the Catholic Church,” Guest said.

Close-up detail of gold coins

The hoard’s 16th-century value was about the same as the price of an average rural home. (David Guest Numismatics)

The coins were all struck between the 1420s and 1530s. Many of the coins bear the images of the four English kings between 1422 and 1547: Henry VI, Edward IV, Henry VII and Henry VIII.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

“Four kings, two queens (Katherine of Aragon and Jane Seymour) and one cardinal are named on coins in the hoard,” said Guest. 

The coin dealer said the excellent condition of the coins contributes to the hoard’s high selling point – and he believes it will sell for even more than the expected price.

Images on front and back of gold coins

The treasure, found in Milford on Sea, has been carefully authenticated by specialists. (David Guest Numismatics)

“[The hoard] is also remarkable for the very high state of preservation of the majority of the coins,” he said. “This makes them very attractive to the current market.”

MORE FROM FOX NEWS LIFESTYLE

Guest added, “I am very confident that the total price realized will be significantly more than the pre-sale estimate.”

The hoard is one of many exceptional coin-related discoveries found in the U.K. in recent years.

Coins spread out

The rare hoard, buried during England’s Reformation, is expected to fetch more than £230,000 at auction. (David Guest Numismatics)

In 2023, a plumber found a cache of ancient coins in a field in Leicestershire and auctioned them off in 2025.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Earlier this year, officials announced the discovery of the equivalent of a Roman soldier’s paycheck in Norfolk – 25 silver denarii.

Israel Defense Forces announces that corpse does not match any hostages

0

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

The Israel Defense Forces says that one of the four bodies handed over to Israel by Hamas on Tuesday does not match any of the deceased hostages.

“Following the completion of examinations at the National Institute of Forensic Medicine, the fourth body handed over to Israel by Hamas does not match any of the hostages. Hamas is required to make all necessary efforts to return the deceased hostages,” the IDF noted.

Israeli soldiers rest near artillery units near the border with the Gaza Strip on Oct. 9, 2025 in Southern Israel. (Amir Levy/Getty Images)

All living hostages were released as part of a deal that President Donald Trump helped to broker, but Trump noted in a post on Truth Social that the bodies of the dead must also be returned.

“ALL TWENTY HOSTAGES ARE BACK AND FEELING AS GOOD AS CAN BE EXPECTED. A big burden has been lifted, but the job IS NOT DONE. THE DEAD HAVE NOT BEEN RETURNED, AS PROMISED! Phase Two begins right NOW!!!” he asserted in the post on Tuesday.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

This is a breaking news story and will be updated

Rising Senior Scams: AARP’s Senior Planet Program Helps Protect Older Americans

0


NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

Scams targeting older Americans are surging, and federal officials are warning that the tactics are becoming harder to detect.

The Federal Trade Commission says scammers are posing as IRS agents, police officers, or other officials – often over the phone or online – to steal thousands of dollars at a time.

The FTC says scams involving losses over $10,000 have quadrupled in recent years. The FBI reports that older adults filed the most scam complaints last year, with average losses climbing to $83,000 – up 43% from the year before.

SCAMMERS NOW IMPERSONATE COWORKERS, STEAL EMAIL THREADS IN CONVINCING PHISHING ATTACKS

In response, AARP has launched Senior Planet, a national program offering free fraud-awareness classes to Americans age 60 and older. The program teaches participants how to identify red flags, spot fake communications, and avoid sharing sensitive information under pressure.

Seniors learn about scams

Classes are available in several other states, including Texas, Maryland, and New York. (Kennedy Hayes/ FOX News)

AGING BRAINS COULD ‘BECOME’ YOUNGER WHEN KEY PROTEIN IS DECREASED

Rick Planos, an instructor for Senior Planet in Illinois, says his involvement is personal. His mother lost more than $2,500 in gift cards to a scammer who convinced her that her grandson had been arrested.

“My mom was distraught,” Planos said. “First, she was distraught that one of her grandchildren was arrested – and then it turned out that wasn’t true. And then she was distraught that she got scammed.”

7 STEPS TO ‘SUPER-AGING’ ARE KEY TO LIVING A LONGER, MORE FULFILLING LIFE, EXPERTS SAY

Now, Planos leads scam prevention classes in his community.

“I spend a lot of time teaching for AARP. I took what happened to us and put it into some kind of positive energy to protect other people,” Planos said. 

Federal officials are warning that the tactics are becoming harder to detect

The program teaches participants how to identify red flags, spot fake communications, and avoid sharing sensitive information under pressure. (Kennedy Hayes/FOX News)

In Denver, Senior Planet hosts regular in-person classes, but the program is also available online and in several other states, including Texas, Maryland and New York.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER

“It’s important to talk about where the risks and dangers are,” said Aaron Santis, program lead for Senior Planet Colorado. “But we’re also using technology as a tool to enrich people’s lives.”

Carolyn Gibson, a recent student, said she joined to learn more about new technology such as artificial intelligence – and how to protect herself from scams.

“I came over here to find out who is this AI, what is this AI. The people here, they’ve been very helpful,” Gibson said. 

Senior Planet classes

The FTC reminds consumers that government agencies will never call to demand money. (Kennedy Hayes/Fox News)

Instructors encourage participants to slow down, verify, and never feel rushed into sharing information – especially if contacted by someone claiming to be from a government agency. According to the website, Senior Planet helps seniors learn new skills, save money, get in shape, and make new friends.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

The FTC reminds consumers that government agencies will never call to demand money. If you receive a suspicious call, hang up, visit the agency’s official website, and report the scam directly.

Senior Planet helps seniors learn new skills, save money, get in shape, and make new friends, according to their website



Source link

Gorilla charges its habitat, shattering glass at San Diego Zoo, shocking visitors

0

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

Visitors at the San Diego Zoo in California were left in shock over the weekend after an animal went bananas. 

A male gorilla charged his habitat, shattering one layer of the three-layer glass window.

Dramatic video shows the moment the western lowland gorilla stormed the tempered glass on Saturday. 

MEDIEVAL SHOE FOUND IN VULTURE NEXT REVEALS CENTURIES-OLD SECRETS IN EUROPEAN MOUNTAIN CAVES

Reactions from the crowd can be heard in the background — with zoo visitors gasping.

Zoo officials confirmed the incident to the New York Post, noting it was their 10-year-old gorilla named Denny who was responsible. 

A gorilla is shown within its enclosure at the San Diego Zoo at the time of the incident on Saturday, Oct. 11.  (Emily Holguin)

The 10-year-old gorilla was in the enclosure with another animal and was not injured. 

“It is common for male gorillas, especially in adolescence, to express these types of behaviors,” the San Diego spokesperson told the NYP.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES

The spokesperson added that “bursts of energy, charging, dragging items or running sideways are all natural [behaviors] for a young male.”

glass shattered at zoo from gorilla

Shattered glass is shown in a gorilla enclosure at the San Diego Zoo. (Emily Holguin)

Western lowland gorillas can reach 4 to 6 feet tall, weighing between 155 and 420 pounds, according to the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens (LAZB).

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

“Gorillas at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park peel radishes with their teeth before eating them,” writes the website.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

Males tend to be twice the size of females, with most members of the species living between 35 and 50 years old, according to LAZB. 

gorilla and shattered glass at san diego zoo

A gorilla is seen at the San Diego Zoo, with the shattered glass shown at right after a young male (not pictured) charged the window.  (Emily Holguin)

The International Fund for Animal Welfare notes that the western lowlands are the smallest of the gorilla species. 

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Fox News Digital reached out to the San Diego Zoo for comment.

AI phishing scams are getting smarter, here’s how to protect yourself

0


NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

Artificial intelligence can do a lot for us. Need to draft an email? AI has you covered. Looking for a better job? AI can help with that, too. It can even boost our health and fitness. Some tools, like AI-powered exoskeletons, can lighten heavy loads and improve performance. 

But it’s not all sunshine and progress. Hackers are also turning to AI, and they’re using it to make phishing scams smarter and harder to spot. These scams are designed to trick people into handing over personal details or money. One woman recently lost $850,000 after a scammer, posing as Brad Pitt with the help of AI, convinced her to send money. Scary, right? 

The good news is that you can learn to recognize the warning signs. Before we dive into how to protect yourself, let’s break down what AI phishing scams really are.

HOW AI BROWSERS OPEN THE DOOR TO NEW SCAMS

Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide — free when you join my CyberGuy.com newsletter.

A woman types on a MacBook laptop.

A single click on a fake link could expose your personal information. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What are AI phishing scams?

AI phishing scams are when hackers use AI to make their scams more convincing. AI helps them create super-realistic emails, messages, voices and even videos. This makes it harder for people to tell what’s real and what’s fake. Old-school phishing emails were easy to spot because of typos and bad grammar. However, thanks to AI tools like ChatGPT, hackers can now create flawless, professional-sounding emails that are much harder to detect. AI-generated phishing emails aren’t the only threat. Hackers are also using AI to pull off scams like:

  • Voice clone scams: They use AI to copy the voice of someone you know, like a friend or family member, to trick you.
  • Deepfake video scams: They create super-realistic videos of someone you trust, like a loved one or a celebrity, to manipulate you.

Here’s how you can spot these AI-driven scams before they fool you.

1) Spot common phishing email red flags

Though hackers can use AI tools to write grammatically perfect email copy, AI phishing emails still have some classical red flags. Here are some telltale signs that it is an AI-driven phishing email:

  • Suspicious sender’s address that doesn’t match the company’s domain.
  • Generic greetings like “Dear Customer” instead of your name.
  • Urgent requests pressuring you to act immediately.
  • Unsolicited attachments and links requiring you to take action

The biggest red flag is the sender’s email address. There is often a slight change in the spelling of the email address, or it is an entirely different domain name. For example, a hacker might use an email like xyz@PayPall.com or a personal address from Gmail.com, such as the email below, or Outlook.com while pretending to be from PayPal.

An example of a phishing email

Hackers are using AI to create scams that look frighteningly real. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

2) Analyze the language for AI-generated patterns

It used to be easier to spot phishing emails by noticing silly typos. Thanks to AI, hackers can now craft flawless emails. But you can still sense a phishing email if you analyze the language of the email body copy carefully. The most prominent sign of AI-generated email copy is that it looks highly formal with a dash of failed attempts to be personal. You might not notice it at first, but looking at it closely is likely to give a red flag. The language of such emails is often robotic.

3) Watch for AI voice clone scam warning signs 

With AI, it is possible to clone voices. So, there is no surprise that there is a steep rise in voice phishing, which is also known as vishing. Recently, a father lost $4 billion in Bitcoin to vishing. Though AI voice cloning has improved, it’s still flawed. You can spot inconsistencies by verifying the speaker’s identity. Ask specific questions that only the real person would know. This can reveal gaps in the scammer’s script. The voice, also, at times may sound robotic due to imperfections in voice cloning technology. So the next time, whenever you receive a call that creates a sense of urgency, ask as many questions as you can to verify the identity of the person. You may also consider verifying the claims through the second channel. If the person on the other side of the phone says something, you can get it confirmed by the official email to be on the safer side.

GOOGLE AI EMAIL SUMMARIES CAN BE HACKED TO HIDE PHISHING ATTACKS

4) Identify visual glitches and oddities in video calls

Deepfake videos are getting pretty convincing, but they’re not flawless yet. They have visual inconsistencies and oddities, which can make the voice or video appear fake. So watch the video carefully and try to catch the signs of unnatural eye movements, lip-sync issues, weird lighting, shadows and voice inconsistencies. You can also use a deepfake video detection tool to spot a fake video.

5) Set up and use a shared secret

A shared secret is something only you and your loved ones know. If someone claiming to be a friend or family member contacts you, ask for the shared secret. If they can’t answer, you’ll know it’s a scam.

Young professional man works on laptop

Hackers are turning to artificial intelligence to make phishing scams smarter and harder to spot. (miniseries/Getty Images)

How to protect yourself from AI phishing scams

AI phishing scams rely on tricking people into trusting what looks and sounds real. By staying alert and practicing safe habits, you can lower your risk. Here’s how to stay ahead of scammers:

1) Stay cautious with unsolicited messages

Never trust unexpected emails, texts or calls that ask for money, personal details or account access. Scammers use urgency to pressure you into acting fast. Slow down and double-check before clicking or responding. If something feels off, it probably is.

2) Use a data removal service

Protect your devices with a trusted data removal service to reduce the amount of personal info exposed online. Fewer exposed details make it harder for scammers to target you. 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.

3) Check links before you click and install strong antivirus software

Hackers often hide malicious links behind convincing text. Hover your cursor over a link to see the actual URL before you click. If the address looks odd, misspelled or unrelated to the company, skip it. Clicking blindly can download malware or expose your login details. Also, install strong antivirus software on all of your devices that blocks phishing links and scans for malware. 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.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

4) Turn on two-factor authentication

Even if a scammer steals your password, two-factor authentication (2FA) can keep them locked out. Enable 2FA on your email, banking and social media accounts. Choose app-based codes or a hardware key over text messages for stronger protection.

5) Limit what you share online

The more personal details you share, the easier it is for hackers to make AI scams believable. Avoid posting sensitive information like travel plans, birthdays or financial updates on social media. Scammers piece these details together to build convincing attacks.

6) Verify requests through another channel

If you get a message asking for money or urgent action, confirm it in another way. Call the person directly using a number you know, or reach out through official company channels. Don’t rely on the same email, text or call that raised suspicion in the first place.

Kurt’s key takeaways 

AI is making scams more convincing and harder to detect, but you can stay ahead by recognizing the warning signs. You should watch out for suspicious email addresses, unnatural language, robotic voices and visual glitches in videos, and always verify information through a second channel. You should also establish a shared secret with loved ones to protect yourself from AI-driven voice and video scams.

Have you experienced any AI-driven phishing scams yet, and what do you think is the best way to spot such a scam? Let us know by writing to us at CyberGuy.com.

Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide — free when you join my CyberGuy.com newsletter.

Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com.  All rights reserved.



Source link

New reusable spacecraft can drop 500 pounds anywhere on Earth fast

0


NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

A Los Angeles-based aerospace startup called Inversion Space has unveiled Arc, its first flagship spacecraft designed to deliver supplies from orbit back to Earth in record time. The reusable reentry vehicle can transport up to 500 pounds of mission-critical cargo to nearly any point on the planet in less than an hour. Founders Justin Fiaschetti and Austin Briggs launched the company in 2021 with a bold vision: to build a space-based logistics network. During an event at the company’s factory, they described Arc as the next evolution of global delivery, one that starts in orbit, not on the ground.

Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide — free when you join my CyberGuy.com newsletter.

How the Arc spacecraft delivers cargo from orbit to Earth

Standing about 8 feet tall and 4 feet wide, Arc is roughly the size of a large tabletop. It’s a lifting-body vehicle, meaning it can steer as it reenters the atmosphere. Instead of needing a runway, Arc lands safely under parachutes, using non-toxic propellants that make it safe to handle immediately after landing. The spacecraft features a cross-range of approximately 621 miles, allowing it to target wide landing zones. It can stay in orbit for up to five years, ready to return to Earth when needed. That flexibility means the spacecraft could one day drop off medical supplies, drones or military equipment at hard-to-reach locations. 

THE WORLD’S FIRST FLYING CAR IS READY FOR TAKEOFF

Inversion Space's Arc reentry vehcile

Inversion Space unveils its Arc reentry vehicle designed for rapid orbital delivery (Inversion Space)

A computer shows orbital and navigational diagrams.

Inversion’s Ray mission tested key systems in orbit, paving the way for Arc’s full development. (Inversion Space)

Why Arc’s hypersonic speed could change aerospace testing

Beyond rapid delivery, Arc doubles as a hypersonic testing platform. It can reach speeds over Mach 20, endure extreme heat and survive massive g-forces. Those capabilities have caught the attention of U.S. defense agencies, which are eager to improve hypersonic flight testing. Inversion’s participation in the Kratos-led MACH-TB 2.0 program highlights the growing military interest in Arc’s reusable design. “Fully reusable and capable of precise landings for rapid recovery, Arc makes hypersonic testing faster, repeatable, and more affordable,” the company said.

A spacecraft floats above the Earth.

Arc could deliver mission-critical cargo anywhere on Earth in under an hour. (Inversion Space)

What Inversion learned from its first spacecraft, Ray

Before Arc, Inversion launched a smaller demo craft called Ray on SpaceX’s Transporter-12 mission. Ray weighed about 200 pounds and successfully tested propulsion, avionics and solar power systems in orbit. Though a short circuit prevented reentry, it provided valuable data that led to Arc’s development. Ray’s success convinced the company to push forward with full-scale testing. Inversion has already completed dozens of drop tests and built a full-scale Arc prototype. The startup also partnered with NASA to refine the vehicle’s thermal protection system for reentry.

UFO MANIA GRIPS SMALL TOWN AFTER MYSTERIOUS GLOWING OBJECT SIGHTING GOES VIRAL

How Arc strengthens defense and emergency logistics

Inversion sees Arc as a bridge between space logistics and national defense. The spacecraft could deliver mission-critical cargo to remote, damaged or denied environments where traditional transport would take days. As Fiaschetti put it, the goal is simple: make a difference the moment it lands. By combining maneuverability, reusability and speed, Arc could reshape both emergency response and battlefield supply chains. It’s not just about moving packages, it’s about delivering readiness.

Inversion Space's Arc reentry vehicle

Engineers at Inversion Space test Arc’s reentry systems as the spacecraft moves closer to flight readiness. (Inversion Space)

What this means for you

If Arc succeeds, it could redefine emergency logistics on Earth. Imagine doctors receiving vital medical kits from orbit after a natural disaster, or soldiers getting urgent supplies in minutes instead of hours. Arc could also accelerate scientific research, enabling faster delivery of experimental payloads or orbital materials. For everyday people, this technology represents the next step toward on-demand space infrastructure, where the line between space and Earth logistics begins to blur.

Inversion Space's Arc reentry vehicle

The reusable Arc spacecraft maneuvers through Earth’s atmosphere using parachutes for safe landing. (Inversion Space)

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.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Kurt’s key takeaways

Inversion Space’s Arc is more than a spacecraft; it’s a bold attempt to turn orbit into a delivery zone. With reusable systems, hypersonic capability and a focus on safety, it might just reshape how we think about time, distance and access.

Would you trust a spacecraft to deliver emergency supplies to your neighborhood in under an hour? Let us know by writing to us at CyberGuy.com.

Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide — free when you join my CyberGuy.com newsletter.   

Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com.  All rights reserved.



Source link