Sci-fi solar EV never needs to plug in for a recharge

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

Kurt’s key takeaways

The Aptera gives us a glimpse into our sun-soaked future. Imagine cruising down the highway, powered by sunlight, with no charging stations in sight. It’s what the Aptera is promising to do. So keep your eyes out for this vehicle and more cars like it that are available with solar cells.

Do you think solar EVs like the Aptera can truly revolutionize our dependence on fossil fuels? Why or why not? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

How scammers use Google Voice verification codes to steal your identity, money

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February 14, 2024

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Have you ever received a text message or a phone call from someone asking you to verify your identity by sending them a code?

If you have, you may have been targeted by the Google Voice verification code scam.

This is a sneaky and dangerous scam that allows fraudsters to hijack your phone number and use it to scam other people.

Woman taking a photo to sell items (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What is Google Voice?

Google Voice is a free service that lets you make and receive calls, texts and voicemails online. You can use it on your computer, smartphone or tablet. You can also link your Google Voice number to your existing phone number, so you can use both numbers interchangeably.

Google Voice has many features that make it convenient and useful, such as, voicemail transcription, call forwarding, spam filtering, custom greetings, International calling and Google Assistant integration. However, Google Voice also has a verification process that requires you to enter a code that is sent to your phone number. This is where the scammers come in.

BEWARE OF THIS SNEAKY GOOGLE ATTACK THAT STEALS YOUR EXPIRED COOKIES

Google Voice Verification code (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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What is the Google Voice verification scam?

The Google Voice Verification Scam is a known scam, according to the FTC, but it’s not as widely known by the general public. Here’s how it works.

First, the scammer contacts you via text, email, or phone, pretending to be interested in buying something from you, hiring you, dating you, or any other plausible reason. They may use a fake name, photo, or profile to lure you in.

Second, the scammer asks you to verify your identity by sending them a code that they claim is from Google, Craigslist, Facebook, or any other platform. They may say that this is for security, verification, or confirmation purposes.

Next, the scammer actually initiates a Google Voice setup process using your phone number. They request a verification code from Google, which is then sent to your phone number via text or call.

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Then, the scammer asks you to forward the code to them, or tell them the code over the phone. In this case, if you forward or tell them the code, they’ll enter it and complete the Google Voice setup. This means that they now have access to your Google Voice account and number, and they can use it to make calls, send or read texts and receive voicemails online. Where this gets tricky is financial institutions often send similar codes to verify transactions, so if the scammer has possession of your Google Voice account, they can potentially approve transactions out of your account.

Lastly, the scammer can also use your Google Voice number to scam other people, by pretending to be you or someone else. They can also access your personal information, such as your contacts, messages and voicemails, that are linked to your Google Voice account.

Example of Google Voice Verification code text (FTC)

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Isn’t this scam obvious?

You would think, right? But, even the most experienced sellers who have dealt with their fair share of complex scams are all new to those on Facebook Marketplace. The reason the Google Voice verification scam has been so effective is because these scammers use manipulation to accomplish their scam.

By telling you that they need to check whether or not you are trustworthy, it triggers Facebook Marketplace sellers to demonstrate, “Of course I’m trustworthy, and I’m willing to do whatever I can to prove it, especially if this person is interested in buying from me.”

After all, the concept of an online buyer wanting to confirm the sellers — and the products they are buying are legitimate is common practice. But, in Facebook Marketplace, the lack of regulations makes it easy for both sellers and buyers to become victims of scams. Unfortunately, sellers tend not even to give this scam a second thought, until it’s too late.

What to do if you are a victim of the Google Voice scam

If you have fallen victim to the Google Voice verification code scam, don’t panic. There are some steps you can take to reclaim your number and protect your identity. Here is what you should do:

Change your Google account password and enable two-factor authentication on a separate device. It ensures that the scammer, who might have compromised your primary device, cannot interfere with these security measures.This will prevent the scammer from accessing your Google account and any other services that are linked to it, such as Gmail, YouTube, or Google Photos. You should also regularly check your account activity and review your security settings to see if there are any suspicious or unauthorized actions or devices.

Report the scam to the FTC and your local authorities. You can file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). You can also contact your local police department and file a report. Provide as much information as you can about the scam and the scammer, and keep a copy of the report for your records.

Monitor your credit reports and bank statements. The scammer may have obtained your personal or financial information from your Google Voice account or other sources and may try to use it for identity theft or fraud. You should check your credit reports regularly and look for any errors or suspicious activities. You can get a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion) once a year at www.annualcreditreport.com. You should also review your bank statements and alert your bank if you notice any unauthorized transactions or charges.

Use identity theft protection: Identity Theft protection companies can monitor personal information like your Home title, Social Security Number, phone number and email address and alert you if it is 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.

If you want a service that will walk you through every step of the reporting and recovery process, one of the best things you can do to protect yourself from this type of fraud is to subscribe to an identity theft service. See my tips and best picks on how to protect yourself from identity theft .

MORE: STOP THESE V-DAY SCAMS BEFORE THEY BREAK YOUR HEART AND YOUR BANK ACCOUNT

How to reclaim your Google Voice number if someone has stolen it

Google Voice works by linking to your actual phone number (though some people opt for a new number altogether). If you go to link your phone number and you see that it’s been claimed (and you have no recollection of ever linking it yourself), that means that someone has your number.

Whether or not they got it because you were a victim of this Google Voice verification scam or maybe another way, they’ve now gotten your Google Voice number. Follow the steps from Google Help to reclaim your number and prevent these hackers from doing more harm.

3 ways to avoid the Google Voice verification code scam

The best way to avoid the Google Voice verification code scam is to be vigilant and cautious online. Here are some tips to help you spot and prevent the scam.

1. Never share your verification code with anyone. The verification code is meant for your eyes only. It is not a proof of identity, nor a confirmation of anything. If someone asks you to send them a code, or tell them a code over the phone, it is a red flag that they are trying to scam you. Google, Craigslist, Facebook or any other legitimate platform will never ask you for your verification code.

2. Do your research and trust your instincts. Before you engage with someone online, do some background checks and verify their identity and credibility. You can use search engines, social media, or reverse phone lookup tools to find out more about them. You can also ask them for references, reviews, or testimonials from previous customers or partners.

3. If something seems too good to be true, or too fishy to be real, it probably is. Trust your gut and walk away from any deal or offer that makes you feel uncomfortable or suspicious.

MORE: HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM SOCIAL MEDIA SCAMMERS

Kurt’s key takeaways

The Google Voice verification code scam is a clever and dangerous scam that can cost you your phone number, your Google account and your identity. By being aware of how the scam works, and following the tips above, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from falling prey to this scam.

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

Have you ever been asked to provide a verification code when selling online? What happened? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Cardiologist answers some of the top googled heart health questions for American Heart Month

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February 14, 2024

TWO WOMEN WITH HEART DISEASE HAD TO FIGHT FOR A DIAGNOSIS. HERE’S HOW THEY ADVOCATED FOR THEIR HEALTH

People are curious about heart health — and for good reason.

Heart disease remains the leading killer of men and women in the U.S. — each year, around 695,000 people die from cardiovascular conditions, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

For American Heart Month, Dr. Martha Gulati, M.D., a leading Cedars Sinai cardiologist and president of the American Society of Preventive Cardiology, is sharing some of the most commonly googled questions about heart health, according to Google Trends.

Below are the questions — followed by the doctor’s answers.

Did you ever wonder about these issues? Take a look.

Heart disease remains the leading killer of men and women in the U.S. — each year, some 695,000 people in the country die from cardiovascular conditions. (iStock)

‘What is heart arrhythmia?’

Heart arrhythmia occurs when there is an abnormality in the rhythm of the heartbeat, said Gulati.

“This means your heart either beats too fast, a condition known as tachycardia, or too slow, also known as bradycardia, or irregularly,” she told Fox News Digital.

Arrhythmias can be triggered by genetics, stress, pre-existing heart conditions, or lifestyle habits such as smoking and poor diet.

They can affect people of all ages, Gulati noted.

HEART DISEASE RISK INCREASES FOR YOUNG ADULTS WHO HAVE LOST A SIBLING, STUDY FINDS

“The most common type of arrhythmia is atrial fibrillation, also known as AFib,” she said.

“AFib is an irregular and often rapid heart rate that can increase the risk of stroke, heart failure and other heart-related complications.”

Around 12.1 million people in the U.S. are expected to have AFib by 2030, according to the CDC.

‘What are the symptoms of heart arrhythmias?’

Heart arrhythmias can have very different symptoms depending on the type of arrhythmia, the severity and the health of the individual, according to Gulati.

Symptoms of a cardiac episode can include chest pain, discomfort, fatigue and dizziness.

“Although these symptoms are alarming and can certainly induce anxiety, it’s important to know when they require an urgent hospital visit,” the doctor said.

Heart arrhythmia occurs when there is an abnormality in the rhythm of the heartbeat. (iStock)

One challenge of arrhythmia symptoms is that they can come and go, she said.

“Sometimes, a patient makes an appointment or comes to the hospital after experiencing a cardiac symptom and, by the time they speak with a doctor, their symptoms have abated,” said Gulati.

GOOGLE REVEALS THE TOP 10 HEALTH SEARCHES OF 2023 — AND EXPERTS ANSWER THEM

“It is difficult to treat patients who are no longer presenting with the symptoms they experienced, and it can be frightening or frustrating for patients who just want to understand what is going on with their bodies.”

Medical-grade personal digital health tools can help break this cycle, she said; they allow patients to access accurate, real-time heart data that they can share with their physicians.

Medical-grade personal digital health tools allow patients to access accurate, real-time heart data that they can share with their physicians, a doctor said. (iStock)

“For patients, these tools can provide additional peace of mind and insight into their heart health,” Gulati said.

“For health care providers, they offer a more comprehensive understanding of a patient’s condition and enable us to potentially implement more timely interventions.”

‘What are heart palpitations?’

These are typically characterized by a rapid, fluttering or pounding heartbeat and can often be felt in the chest, throat or neck, according to Gulati.

Triggers of palpitations can include stress, anxiety, hormonal changes or stimulants like caffeine.

“Heart palpitations on their own aren’t always a cause for alarm,” said Gulati.

Heart palpitations are typically characterized by a rapid, fluttering or pounding heartbeat and can often be felt in the chest, throat or neck. (iStock)

Patients can purchase home devices online that allow them to easily record symptoms, receive a reading and confirm whether they are experiencing a potentially life-threatening arrhythmia, the doctor noted.

“However, if you experience heart palpitations coupled with chest pain, fainting or severe dizziness, it is important to seek immediate medical attention,” she added.

‘What causes heart arrhythmias?’

Heart arrhythmias can have a myriad of symptoms — plus a variety of causes.

Lifestyle habits such as activity level, diet or smoking can have a serious impact on overall wellness, particularly heart health, Gulati noted.

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“As health care providers, we stress the importance of a good diet and daily exercise, because it keeps your heart in good shape and reduces the risk of heart disease,” she said.

There are some uncontrollable factors that can contribute to arrhythmias, however.

“One of these is abnormalities in the heart structure, which tend to be congenital, meaning something you’re born with,” Gulati told Fox News Digital.

“Age-related changes can affect the way our hearts operate and the way electrical impulses flow through our cardiovascular system.”

“Congenital heart conditions can impact the way electrical activity signals travel through the heart, which can then impact the heart’s rhythm.”

Age-related changes can also make people more susceptible.

“If you experience heart palpitations coupled with chest pain, fainting or severe dizziness, it is important to seek immediate medical attention,” a cardiologist said. (iStock)

“As we age, our hearts change,” the doctor said. “These age-related changes, though natural, can affect the way our hearts operate and the way electrical impulses flow through our cardiovascular system.”

It’s important to understand the specific factors that contribute to arrhythmias in order to get proper diagnosis and treatment, according to Gulati.

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“While lifestyle choices can influence overall health, managing aging and congenital or genetic factors often requires a multifaceted and personal approach,” she said.

“The more proactive you are about your heart health, the better. Regular check-ups and monitoring can help identify and manage these factors.”

‘What are arrhythmia treatments?’

Treatments for arrhythmia will differ depending on each individual’s symptoms and contributing factors, Gulati said.

“It’s important for your doctors to have access to as much information as possible so they can make the most informed decisions about your care,” she said.

Treatments for arrhythmia will be different depending on each individual’s symptoms and contributing factors. (iStock)

Early detection and intervention can significantly impact the long-term prognosis and reduce the risk of complications, such as stroke or heart failure, the doctor noted.

“That’s why I stress the importance of providing real-time data to physicians about what you’re experiencing when you’re experiencing it,” she said.

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.

“This not only fosters a deeper understanding of your unique circumstances and needs, but it also allows your doctor to tailor treatments based on day-to-day insights.”

Melissa Rudy is health editor and a member of the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to melissa.rudy@fox.com.

Experimental lupus therapy could be ‘life-changing’ for patients with autoimmune disease, study finds

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February 14, 2024

FRIENDS RUN FOR A CURE FOR LUPUS, COMPLETING NYC MARATHON IN HONOR OF LONGTIME PAL AND LUPUS SUFFERER

Australian researchers may have found a breakthrough treatment for lupus.

In a study published in Nature Communications on Feb. 6, scientists at Monash University revealed that they were able to “fix” defective cells that can cause lupus, an autoimmune disease.

They accomplished this by infusing human cells — called regulatory T cells — harvested from healthy people, which then triggered a protective mechanism that helps to prevent autoimmunity, according to a press release from the university.

People who develop lupus and other autoimmune disorders lack these special T cells.

“We’ve figured out a way to fix a defect that causes lupus,” Peter Eggenhuizen, a research fellow at Monash University and co-first author of the study, told Fox News Digital.

Common symptoms of lupus include joint pain, extreme fatigue, joint pain or a butterfly rash. (iStock)

“We achieved this by engineering patient cells with protective molecules from healthy people. In preclinical models, this halted lupus kidney disease progression.”

The research was performed in both test tubes and in mouse models.

FOR AUTOIMMUNE DISEASE SUFFERERS, GINGER MAY ‘PLAY A CRITICAL ROLE’ IN CONTROLLING INFLAMMATION, STUDY FINDS

The researchers were surprised to discover that the infused patient cells,enhanced with protective molecules, suppressed lupus without the need for toxic immunosuppressant drugs.

“New technologies using T regulatory cells as therapy for lupus and other autoimmune conditions are emerging and herald a new generation of personalized medicine,” Eggenhuizen said.

An experimental therapy was able to “completely arrest” the development of lupus kidney disease without using potentially harmful immunosuppressant drugs, said researchers (not pictured). (iStock)

Co-senior author Joshua Ooi, an associate professor who heads Monash University’s Regulatory T Cell Therapies Group at Monash Health, said the new therapy was able to “completely arrest” the development of lupus kidney disease.

“It’s like a reset of the abnormal immune system back to a healthy state — kind of like a major software upgrade,” Ooi said in the press release.

“That it uses the patient’s own cells is a very special part of this.”

AUTOIMMUNE DISEASE: A BODY AT WAR WITH ITSELF

Beyond treating lupus, the researchers hope that the targeted T regulatory cell therapy can be used eventually as a therapy for over 100 other autoimmune conditions, including diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis.

Although these initial findings are promising, the researcher emphasized that this work is at the pre-clinical stage.

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that impacts some 1.5 million people in the U.S. (iStock)

“Two years of additional research and development is required before the first human clinical trials can commence,” he said.

Human clinical trials are expected to start in 2026 to determine the viability of the experimental treatment method.

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Dr. Emily Littlejohn, a rheumatologist and lupus expert from Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, was not involved in the clinical studies but said the proposed treatment looks “promising” as a possible therapy for certain lupus patients.

“This Australian group from Monash University was able to halt the progression of lupus nephritis in a lupus mouse model,” she told Fox News Digital in an interview.

“Lupus nephritis is one of the most devastating manifestations of systemic lupus, and this therapy could prove to be life-changing for many of our patients.”

Lupus is more common among women between 15 and 44 years of age and people who are African American, Asian American, Hispanic/Latino, Native American, or Pacific Islander, according to the Lupus Foundation. (iStock)

Because this study was done in vitro and in lupus nephritis mouse models, Littlejohn noted that it’s very difficult to make presumptions about how this therapy will perform in humans with lupus.

“It will be interesting to see how this treatment translates in clinical trials using human patients,” she added.

Current treatments for lupus include disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, or DMARDs, in addition to biologic agents, which are immunosuppressive therapies in either tablet, injection or infusion form, Littlejohn noted.

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“While these drugs have proven to be useful to treat and prevent progression of lupus, we still do not have ample success rates in treating patients with lupus nephritis,” she said. “We are looking forward to the up-and-coming drug trials that are ongoing in this space for treatment of different forms of systemic lupus.”

What to know about lupus

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy tissue in the body, which causes inflammation and pain in the body, according to the Lupus Foundation of America’s website.

The disease most often affects the joints, skin and major organs, such as the kidneys and heart.

Common symptoms include joint pain, extreme fatigue, joint pain or a butterfly rash.

The disease most often affects the joints, skin and major organs, such as the kidneys and heart. (iStock)

There are four different types of lupus, as detailed on the foundation’s website.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the most common form, affects multiple organs or organ systems.

Cutaneous lupus only affects the skin, while drug-induced lupus is triggered by specific prescription drugs.

Neonatal lupus is a rare condition that is passed from a pregnant woman to her infant.

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Lupus can run in families, and it’s also more common among women between 15 and 44 years of age and people who are African American, Asian American, Hispanic/Latino, Native American, or Pacific Islander, according to the same foundation.

The disease affects approximately 1.5 million people in the U.S.

Although these initial findings are promising, the researcher emphasized that this work is at the pre-clinical stage. (iStock)

“Systemic lupus is a life-threatening and difficult-to-treat disease,” said Littlejohn.

“Given the variety of manifestations of this disease and the wide range of clinical symptoms, having more treatment options will only help improve disease outcomes and quality of life in these patients.”

For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.

With dozens of new drugs in various stages of clinical trial, Littlejohn said this is an “exciting time” for drug development in systemic lupus.

“The ongoing scientific work and treatment development breakthroughs, such as the one put forth in this article, are wonderful to see.”

Melissa Rudy is health editor and a member of the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to melissa.rudy@fox.com.

3 Republicans buck their party, vote against impeaching DHS Secretary Mayorkas

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February 14, 2024

HOUSE VOTES TO IMPEACH DHS SECRETARY MAYORKAS OVER BORDER CRISIS

Three Republican lawmakers voted against impeaching Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas Tuesday night as the House of Representatives successfully impeached the border chief over his mishandling of the illegal immigration crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border.

Reps. Mike Gallagher, R-Wis., Ken Buck, R-Colo., and Tom McClintock, R-Calif., bucked their party to side with Democrats in opposing Mayorkas’ impeachment.

This is the first time a Cabinet secretary has been impeached by the U.S. Congress since 1876.

The 214-213 vote comes after Mayorkas narrowly defeated impeachment last week when every House Democrat showed up to protect him, including Rep. Al Green, D-Texas, who temporarily left the hospital where he was recovering from surgery to cast his vote.

Reps. Mike Gallagher, R-Wis., Ken Buck, R-Colo., and Tom McClintock, R-Calif., bucked their party to side with Democrats in opposing Mayorkas’ impeachment. (Getty Images)

House Republicans have accused Mayorkas of ignoring existing immigration law and worsening the situation at the Southern Border.

The three Republicans who voted against impeachment on Tuesday have criticized Mayorkas’ handling of the border but expressed reservations over whether it rose to the level of impeachment. McClintock warned it could set a precedent for political impeachments that could harm Republican officials in the future.

“Swapping one leftist for another is a fantasy, solves nothing, excuses Biden’s culpability, and unconstitutionally expands impeachment that someday will bite Republicans,” McClintock said last week.

But House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., pushed back on concerns about precedent when speaking to reporters hours before the vote on Tuesday.

“Mayorkas is an exceptional case in U.S. history,” Johnson said, adding that the secretary has done more “damage on the country than any Cabinet secretary that’s ever been.”

Johnson also spoke about the likely scenario that the impeachment would go nowhere in the Democrat-controlled Senate.

“The House has a constitutional responsibility, as I’ve said many times. It’s probably the heaviest next to a declaration of war. And we have to do our job regardless of what the other chamber does,” he said.

HOUSE FAILS TO IMPEACH DHS SECRETARY ALEJANDRO MAYORKAS IN MAJOR BLOW TO GOP

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas was impeached by the House of Representatives. (Getty Images)

Two impeachment articles were approved against Mayorkas by the House Homeland Security Committee: one alleging he “refused to comply with Federal immigration laws” and the other alleging he violated “public trust.”

The Department of Homeland Security criticized House Republicans for holding a second Mayorkas impeachment vote on Tuesday, pointing to comments by GOP lawmakers who have called the effort a waste of time.

“House Republicans’ baseless push to impeach Secretary Mayorkas has already failed once, with bipartisan opposition,” the department said. “If Members of Congress care about our national security, they should listen to their fellow Republicans and stop wasting time on this pointless, unconstitutional impeachment – time that could be spent addressing the issue by advancing bipartisan legislation to fix our broken immigration laws and provide needed resources for border security.”

A DHS spokesperson said House Republicans “will be remembered by history for trampling on the Constitution for political gain rather than working to solve the serious challenges at our border.”

“While Secretary Mayorkas was helping a group of Republican and Democratic Senators develop bipartisan solutions to strengthen border security and get needed resources for enforcement, House Republicans have wasted months with this baseless, unconstitutional impeachment,” the spokesperson said.

“Without a shred of evidence or legitimate Constitutional grounds, and despite bipartisan opposition, House Republicans have falsely smeared a dedicated public servant who has spent more than 20 years enforcing our laws and serving our country,” the spokesperson added. “Secretary Mayorkas and the Department of Homeland Security will continue working every day to keep Americans safe.”

House Republicans have accused Mayorkas of ignoring existing immigration law and worsening the situation at the Southern Border. (Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)

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President Biden said, “history will not look kindly on House Republicans for their blatant act of unconstitutional partisanship that has targeted an honorable public servant in order to play petty political games.”

“This impeachment already failed on a bipartisan vote,” Biden said. “Instead of staging political stunts like this, Republicans with genuine concerns about the border should want Congress to deliver more border resources and stronger border security.”

The articles will now head to the Senate, where the office of Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said Mayorkas’ impeachment trial will begin later this month.

“The House impeachment managers will present the articles of impeachment to the Senate following the state work period,” Schumer’s office said in a statement. “Senators will be sworn in as jurors in the trial the next day. Senate President Pro Tempore Patty Murray will preside.”

Fox News’ Elizabeth Elkind and Bradford Betz contributed to this report.

Russian landing ship Caesar Kunikov hit in Black Sea, it has sunk – intelligence sources

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February 14, 2024

Drones of Defence Intelligence of Ukraine (DIU) have struck the Russian landing ship Caesar Kunikov in the Black Sea on the morning of 14 February.

Source: Ukrainska Pravda sources in DIU

Details: Ukrainska Pravda sources reported that it was a DIU operation, resulting in the sinking of the Caesar Kunikov.

В Чорному морі щось палало. Джерела УП в ГУР кажуть, що підбили черговий корабель ЧФ РФ. Він нібито затонув. Відео з Telegram-каналу “Кримський вітер” pic.twitter.com/00ebSlZ7BM

— Українська правда ✌ (@ukrpravda_news) February 14, 2024

Ukrainska Pravda has asked for official comments on this matter.

Background:

Earlier, the Russian Ministry of Defence claimed that its air defence forces had supposedly shot down six drones in the Black Sea on the night of 13-14 February.
At the same time, Telegram channels reported that something was burning in the sea near Alupka-Katsiveli. Two Mi-8 helicopters were also reportedly circling low over the water in the area.
The Krymsky Veter (Crimean Wind) Telegram channel reported that drones had supposedly struck a landing ship.
Later, a Ka-27 search and rescue helicopter was also spotted in the area of the settlement of Foros (Russian-occupied Crimea).

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How this tiny house flips its design with upside-down layout

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February 13, 2024

CLICK TO GET KURT’S FREE CYBERGUY NEWSLETTER WITH SECURITY ALERTS, QUICK VIDEO TIPS, TECH REVIEWS AND EASY HOW-TO’S TO MAKE YOU SMARTER

In the world of tiny houses, where every square inch counts, French company Baluchon is pushing the boundaries. Their latest creation, the Ellèbore, challenges conventional layouts by flipping the script – quite literally. Let’s dive into the details of this intriguing tiny home.

How this tiny house flips its design with upside-down layout

The Ellèbore exterior (Baluchon) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

The upside-down approach

Baluchon’s mission is clear: extract as much livable space as possible from their compact designs. The Ellèbore achieves this by turning the traditional layout on its head. Imagine a house where the bedroom resides downstairs, leaving room for a versatile living area above. It’s like a tiny house doing a handstand.

The Ellèbore exterior (Baluchon) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Exterior aesthetics

The Ellèbore measures a modest 20 feet in length and rests on a sturdy double-axle trailer. Its contemporary exterior features red cedar siding with subtle gray aluminum accents. From the outside, it looks like any other tiny house – but step inside and you’ll discover its delightful country charm.

The Ellèbore exterior (Baluchon) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

MORE: WITH THE PRESS OF A BUTTON THIS TINY HOUSE FOLDS INTO A BOX THAT YOU CAN TOW ANYWHERE

Interior features

On one side of the tiny house is a small kitchen with a sink, refrigerator/freezer, microwave, electric mini-oven, gas cooktop and an electric water heater. It also has plenty of shelves, cabinets and a wood-burning stove to keep you toasty.

The Ellèbore kitchen (Baluchon) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Next to the kitchen, you’ll find the bathroom. It’s compact and functional, housing a shower on one side.

The Ellèbore shower (Baluchon) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

On the other side of the bathroom is a toilet (though no sink). Practicality takes precedence here.

The Ellèbore toilet (Baluchon) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Across the kitchen lies the bedroom.

A view of the Ellèbore bedroom from the kitchen (Baluchon) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

The bedroom is accessed through a sliding door. It’s a cozy sleeping nook with a low-beam ceiling. The downstairs location and petite doorway might evoke a touch of claustrophobia, but it serves its purpose well.

The Ellèbore bedroom (Baluchon) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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The upside-down living room

To get to the second level, you’ll need to climb a set of storage-integrated steps, which can be neatly tucked away when not needed.

The Ellèbore storage-integrated steps (Baluchon) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Suddenly, you’re in the living room – upstairs. The headroom is generous, and large windows flood the space with natural light. The sofa doubles as a comfortable bed, accommodating two guests.

The Ellèbore living room (Baluchon) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Baluchon didn’t stop there – they managed to squeeze in a small home office area with a desk. Productivity meets relaxation.

The Ellèbore office area (Baluchon) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Over the bathroom area, a secondary storage loft provides extra room for belongings. After all, every inch counts in a tiny house.

The Ellèbore storage loft (Baluchon) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

How much does it cost?

You’d think for a tiny house, you’d pay a tiny price. Not so much with this one. Baluchon’s models typically start around $91,000.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

The Ellèbore proves that innovation knows no bounds, even within the tiny house movement. So, if you’re ever in France and spot an upside-down tiny house, don’t be surprised – it’s probably the Ellèbore, redefining compact living one handstand at a time.

Would you consider living in a tiny house like the Ellèbore? Does the upside-down approach make it seem bigger than it is? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips & 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.

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

MovingTruckDriver.com Revolutionizes Long-Distance Relocations with On-Demand U-Haul Drivers: Providing Stress-Free Solutions for Cross-Country Moves

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February 13, 2024

By offering on-demand U-Haul drivers, Moving Truck Driver empowers customers to take control of their move without the burden of driving a large moving truck themselves. Whether it’s navigating unfamiliar roads or towing additional vehicles, the company’s team of professional drivers is equipped to handle every aspect of the journey with precision and care.

Point Pleasant, New Jersey, February 13, 2024, For many people, long-distance moving means renting a U-Haul Truck and with the help of family and friends, packing and loading and making sure the gas tank is full. By the time they are ready to jump into the truck, everybody is exhausted and not thrilled about an extended drive, especially if the weather is harsh.

Moving is stressful enough without having to drive the vehicle maybe across the country and arrive feeling fatigued before the unloading has begun. This is why it makes sense to have a professional driver take care of the driving phase of the move. MovingTruckDriver.com is the leader in helping people enjoy a stress-free long-distance relocation by furnishing professional U-Haul Drivers.

Moving Truck Driver continues its ascent to the top of the moving industry. With a focus on providing stress-free solutions for cross-country moves, the company is revolutionizing the way people approach DIY moves and traditional moving services.

By offering on-demand U-Haul drivers, Moving Truck Driver empowers customers to take control of their move without the burden of driving a large moving truck themselves. Whether it’s navigating unfamiliar roads or towing additional vehicles, the company’s team of professional drivers is equipped to handle every aspect of the journey with precision and care.

Moving to a new home, whether across the state or across the country, can be a difficult task filled with logistical challenges and emotional stress. Recognizing the need for a better solution, Moving Truck Driver was founded with the mission of simplifying the moving process and providing customers with peace of mind.

During a recent interview, Mark Duda, Owner of MovingTruckDriver.com, made these comments, “Our goal at Moving Truck Driver is to alleviate the stress and hassle often associated with long-distance moves. We understand that coordinating a DIY move or hiring a traditional moving company can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve developed a platform that connects customers with experienced U-Haul drivers who handle the driving for them, ensuring a smooth and seamless relocation experience.”

He goes on to say, “What sets Moving Truck Driver apart is our commitment to putting the customer first. We operate on their schedule, not the other way around. Our priority is to make the moving process as convenient and stress-free as possible, allowing our customers to focus on the excitement of starting a new chapter in their lives.”

In addition to providing experienced drivers, Moving Truck Driver offers comprehensive support throughout the entire moving process. From assisting with truck size selection to estimating fuel costs and providing long-distance driving tips, the company’s team of experts is dedicated to ensuring a smooth and successful relocation.

For complete information, visit: https://movingtruckdriver.com/

Media Contact:

Moving Truck Driver
Attn: Mark Duda
Point Pleasant, NJ
888-406-1985
info@crosscountrydriver.com

MovingTruckDriver.com Revolutionizes Long-Distance Relocations with On-Demand U-Haul Drivers: Providing Stress-Free Solutions for Cross-Country Moves 72

Beware of this sneaky Google attack that steals your expired cookies

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February 13, 2024

CLICK TO GET KURT’S FREE CYBERGUY NEWSLETTER WITH SECURITY ALERTS, QUICK VIDEO TIPS, TECH REVIEWS AND EASY HOW-TO’S TO MAKE YOU SMARTER

‘CyberGuy’: Big Brother in the Big Apple

NYC drivers face a $15 daily congestion fee for entering the toll congestion zone south of 60th Street, monitored by license plate readers. Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson gives the details.

A new exploit threat lets hackers access your Google account using expired cookies that contain your login information. The exploits, which were discovered late last year, target session cookies, which only have a limited lifespan. However, they can “revive” those cookies, putting your personal information at risk.

A hacker named PRISMA first revealed they found a way to bring back expired Google session cookies. Since then, cybersecurity firm CloudSEK discovered an exploit in a program that allows users to synchronize their Google accounts across multiple devices. Now, hackers are using that exploit to steal your login and other information. Here’s a breakdown of how it all unfolded and how you can protect yourself.

Beware of this sneaky Google attack that steals your expired cookies

Google Chrome start-up page (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Exploiting Google’s MultiLogin

As reported by BleepingComputer, certain malware strains have discovered a backdoor into Google’s authentication system. The vulnerability lies in the MultiLogin endpoint, which remains undocumented and largely unknown to the public. This clandestine gateway enables threat actors to revive expired authentication cookies, granting unauthorized access to users’ Google accounts.

Google Chrome start-up page (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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The role of session cookies

Before we dive deeper, let’s understand the role of session cookies. These specialized browser cookies contain authentication information. If you’ve ever experienced the convenience of returning to a site without re-entering your credentials, you’ve encountered session cookies. However, their design intentionally limits their lifespan to prevent prolonged unauthorized access.

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The Lumma and Rhadamanthys connection

In November of last year, cybercriminals associated with the Lumma and Rhadamanthys info-stealing malware strains made a bold claim: they could resurrect expired Google Authentication cookies stolen during cyberattacks. Armed with these seemingly defunct cookies, a hacker gains entry to a victim’s Google account, even if the user has logged out, reset their password, or their session has expired.

PRISMA’s revelation

The exploit’s origins trace back to a Telegram post by a threat actor known as PRISMA. In October, they unveiled their discovery: a method to restore Google authentication cookies that had reached their expiration date. This revelation set the stage for further investigation.

CloudSEK’s investigation

Enter CloudSEK, a cybersecurity firm committed to predicting and preventing cyberattacks. Their researchers took on the challenge, reverse engineering the exploit. Their findings revealed that the MultiLogin endpoint served as the linchpin for the hackers. This undocumented feature facilitates account synchronization across various Google services, making it an ideal target for malicious actors’ nefarious activities.

Google Chrome start-up page (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Protecting against MultiLogin exploit

The exploitation of MultiLogin raises serious concerns for those of you who are Google account holders. To safeguard against this threat, consider the following steps:

1) Sign out of the affected browser: Google is aware of this issue and has taken action to secure compromised accounts. Google’s recommendation is to simply sign out of the affected browser to revoke session cookies.

2) Enhanced Safe Browsing: Enable Enhanced Safe Browsing in Chrome for additional protection against malware and phishing attacks.

On your computer:

Open Google Chrome on your computer
Click the initial in the top-right corner of the browser window
Tap Manage your Google Account
Click Security on the left
Under Enhanced Safe Browsing for your account – make sure it is turned On

On your smartphone:

Open Google Chrome on your computer
Click the initial in the top-right corner of the browser window
Tap Google Account
Click Security
Scroll down and under Enhanced Safe Browsing for your account – make sure it is turned On

3) Regularly change passwords: Regularly change your Google password to keep your account safe from hackers. If you struggle with creating new passwords, consider using a password manager.

4) Have good antivirus software on all your devices: The best way to protect yourself from having your data breached is to have antivirus protection installed on all your devices. Choose the best option for your PC , Mac, iPhone or Android smartphone. Having good antivirus software actively running on your devices will alert you of any malware in your system, warn you against clicking on any malicious links in phishing emails and ultimately protect you from being hacked. Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices.

Kurt’s key takeaways

In light of the recent exploits targeting Google accounts through resurrected session cookies, it’s imperative to strengthen our defenses against such cyberthreats. From the initial discovery by PRISMA to the subsequent investigations by CloudSEK, the vulnerabilities in Google’s MultiLogin endpoint have now been exposed.

To protect your account, ensure you sign out of affected browsers, enable Enhanced Safe Browsing, regularly update passwords, and have good antivirus software across all your devices. By implementing these security measures, you can thwart attempts to compromise your online privacy and safeguard your digital identities.

How important do you think it is for technology companies like Google to continually update and enhance their security protocols to protect you from evolving cyberthreats? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips & 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.

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

California schools now allow kids to attend with cough and cold symptoms, health department says

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February 13, 2024

KIDS’ STOMACH PAIN IS COMMON COMPLAINT, YET MANY PARENTS DON’T SEEK MEDICAL CARE, POLL FINDS

A growing number of schools are relaxing their restrictions and opening their doors to kids with coughs, sore throats and other symptoms.

This is a marked difference from the strict guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic — when parents were advised to keep students home at any sign of illness.

California is one of the states that has relaxed its restrictions, as outlined on the state health department’s website.

Students may attend school or child care even if they have cough and cold symptoms, including a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, congestion or body aches — with the exception of those who also have a fever, uncontrolled coughing fits or difficulty breathing.

Kids who have a headache or a stiff, painful neck may also come to school in the absence of a concussion or infection, according to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).

A growing number of schools are relaxing restrictions and opening their doors to kids with coughs, sore throats and other symptoms. (iStock)

The Golden State also allows kids to go to school with pink eye, as long as they don’t have vision problems, pain or injury.

Stomach pain is also OK, unless it involves an injury, vomiting, diarrhea or fever.

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In some cases, students may even attend with an earache, diarrhea or wheezing, according to the health department’s guidelines.

California has also updated recommendations for individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19, the CDPH said in an email to Fox News Digital.

Although those who test positive are still advised to monitor symptoms and stay home if they have a fever and feel ill, the days of mandated quarantines appear to be over.

The state of California has relaxed its restrictions, as outlined on the state health department’s website, and has opened its schools’ doors to kids with coughs, sore throats and other symptoms. (iStock)

“Instead of staying home for a minimum of five days, individuals may return to work or school when they start to feel better, meaning that their symptoms are mild and improving, and they have not had a fever for a full day (24 hours) without the use of fever-reducing medication,” the CDPH told Fox News Digital.

The department does still recommend 10 days of masking for students who have tested positive for COVID or have respiratory symptoms.

“Instead of staying home for a minimum of five days, individuals may return to work or school when they start to feel better.”

The state has also relaxed its COVID testing guidance.

“People who have been exposed to a confirmed case of COVID-19 and do not have COVID-19 symptoms are only recommended to test if they are at higher risk of severe disease and would benefit from treatment OR if they have contact with people who are at higher risk for severe COVID-19 infection,” the agency said.

“The reason for these changes is that we are now at a different point in time with reduced impacts from COVID-19 compared to prior years due to broad immunity from vaccination and/or natural infection, and readily available treatments for infected people,” the CDPH added.

A child who has a fever along with another symptom or sign of illness should not attend school or child care, according to the CDPH. (iStock)

The city of Boston, Massachusetts, also has relaxed its stay-at-home restrictions for sick kids.

On the Boston Public Schools website, the district states that students can attend with “common” respiratory infections.

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“If the child does not have fever, does not appear to have decreased activity or other symptoms, it is not necessary for the child to stay home,” the guidance says.

Students may also attend if they have vomited once in the past 24 hours — but vomiting two or more times is grounds for staying home, the district stated.

Public health agencies’ recommendations

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) still adheres to stricter guidelines, stating that people with symptoms of respiratory or gastrointestinal infections, including cough, fever, sore throat, vomiting or diarrhea, should stay home.

The CDC also recommends that anyone who experiences symptoms of COVID-19 should be tested for the virus right away.

The AAP states that children should be kept home from school if they’ve had a fever above 101 degrees Fahrenheit within the past 24 hours, if they’ve had episodes of vomiting or diarrhea within the past 24 hours, or if they are not well enough to participate in class. (iStock)

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) states on its website that children should be kept home from school if they’ve had a fever above 101 degrees Fahrenheit within the past 24 hours, if they’ve had episodes of vomiting or diarrhea within the past 24 hours, or if they are not well enough to participate in class.

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“If your child has been ill and is feeling better, but still wakes up with minor problems such like a runny nose or slight headache … you can send them to school if none of the three circumstances listed above is present,” the AAP stated.

The AAP warned of the dangers of “chronic absenteeism,” including lower literacy levels in young children and a higher risk of failing, getting suspended or dropping out among older students. (iStock)

The AAP also warned of the dangers of “chronic absenteeism” — including lower literacy levels in young children and a higher risk of failing, getting suspended or dropping out among older students.

“Chronic absenteeism is also linked with teen substance use, as well as poor health as adults,” the organization added.

Doctors’ input on school policies

Dr. Shana Johnson, a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician in Scottsdale, Arizona, said that more relaxed school policies reflect “a better balance” between illness prevention and the impact of absences.

“Sick policies in schools have evolved to reflect the transition from a COVID public health emergency to COVID being endemic, or ever-present, in our communities,” she told Fox News Digital.

“Current policies better balance limiting the spread of disease with the harms of excessive absences.”

“Current policies better balance limiting the spread of disease with the harms of excessive absences, which include detriments to children’s education, social development and mental health,” she added.

The “hard-lined” COVID policies that were enacted in many states resulted in “tremendous harm” to children, Johnson said — including substantial learning loss, arrested social development and a spike in mental health crises.

“Now, four years following the emergence of COVID, we understand the virus better and have vaccines and treatments that reduce the severity of illness it causes,” she said.

The state of California still recommends 10 days of masking for students who have tested positive for COVID or have respiratory symptoms. (iStock)

“Also, a large portion of the population has been exposed to COVID and has a level of protective immunity,” the doctor added. “All of the above lowers the risk of harm from the virus.”

Sick policies in schools are now more reflective of those in place before the pandemic, according to Johnson.

“Before the pandemic, children attended school with a mild cold; they stayed home with moderate or severe symptoms such as fever and excessive cough,” she said.

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“Some children have back-to-back colds for six months out of the year, especially younger children,” the doctor went on. “The hard-line policies would have these kids out of school for half the year.”

She added, “For a virus that causes mild symptoms in kids, missing half the year is not reasonable.”

Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and a Fox News medical contributor, said that kids with infectious-type symptoms, especially frequent upper respiratory symptoms, should not attend school. (Fox News)

Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and a Fox News medical contributor, said that kids with infectious-type symptoms, especially frequent upper respiratory symptoms, should not attend school at all.

“An occasional cough or sneeze or a confirmed allergy is one thing, but sore throat, cough, body aches or congestion are consistent with an ongoing contagion that is easily spread at school,” he warned.