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Everything that connects to the internet can be hacked by malware. This includes your phones (both Android and iPhones) and laptops (whether Windows, Mac or even lesser-known systems like Linux). Devices like your Wi-Fi router and security cameras aren’t safe either.But who would have thought hackers are now targeting your smart TVs, streaming boxes, projectors and tablets, too? That’s right, the FBI warns that bad actors have hijacked over a million of these devices with malware, turning them into unwitting participants in a global cybercrime network.Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy ReportGet 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. Remote control and smart TV (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)FBI warns: Over 1 million smart devices infected with BadBox 2.0 malwareThe FBI is warning that more than a million smart TVs, streaming boxes, projectors and tablets have been infected by a massive malware operation called BadBox 2.0. The malware turns home electronics into participants in a global network of cybercrime, often before the user even powers them on.In a statement, the FBI says BadBox 2.0 is commonly found on cheap Android-based devices manufactured in mainland China. These include uncertified tablets, connected TV boxes and other Internet of Things hardware. Many of the infected devices ship with the malware preinstalled. Others are compromised during setup, often through malicious firmware updates or sideloaded apps from unofficial marketplaces.FBI WARNS OF HACKERS EXPLOITING OUTDATED ROUTERS. CHECK YOURS NOWOnce infected, the devices connect to a command and control server, allowing hackers to reroute malicious traffic through home networks, load fraudulent ads in the background and carry out credential-stuffing attacks without the user knowing. Essentially, your smart TV could be quietly helping someone break into other people’s accounts.The botnet is primarily used to turn infected devices into residential proxy nodes, providing hackers with anonymous access to real home IP addresses. That means your TV or projector might unknowingly be helping cybercriminals bypass security systems, commit ad fraud or brute-force online accounts while hiding behind your internet connection. A person holding a tablet (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)DON’T CLICK THAT LINK! HOW TO SPOT AND PREVENT PHISHING ATTACKS IN YOUR INBOXBadbox malware history: From TV boxes to over 1 million infected devicesBadBox first appeared in 2023 on generic TV boxes, such as the T95. The original botnet was briefly disrupted in Germany in 2024 when security researchers “sinkholed” the malware’s command servers. That wiped out part of the operation, but not for long. Just a week later, the malware reappeared on nearly 200,000 devices, including more recognizable brands like Hisense smartphones and Yandex TVs.By March 2025, BadBox had evolved into BadBox 2.0, with more than 1 million active infections detected by HUMAN’s Satori Threat Intelligence team. The majority of devices are uncertified Android Open Source Project builds. These are not official Android TV OS products and are not protected by Google Play Protect.Researchers say the malware has been spotted in 222 countries. A significant number of infections are concentrated in Brazil, followed by the United States, Mexico and Argentina.The FBI, working with Google, Trend Micro, HUMAN and the Shadowserver Foundation, recently disrupted communications between more than 500,000 infected devices and their control servers. However, the botnet continues to grow as more compromised products reach consumers and remain unnoticed.Symptoms of infection include strange app marketplaces, disabled Play Protect settings or devices advertised as being unlocked or capable of free streaming. Many of these products come from unknown brands and are sold through unofficial sellers. If you have recently purchased a budget Android TV box or projector, especially one that is not certified by Google, you may want to take a closer look. Smart TV (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)ANDROID SCAM LETS HACKERS USE YOUR CREDIT CARD REMOTELYHow to tell if your device might be infected with BadBox 2.0If you’re wondering whether your smart TV, streaming box, projector or tablet could be part of the BadBox 2.0 botnet, here are some warning signs and checks you can do.1. You bought a low-cost Android-based device from an unknown or no-name brand: Devices sold online through third-party sellers or unknown brands, especially if advertised as “unlocked,” “jailbroken” or offering free streaming, are at higher risk. Models like the T95 box or other generic Android TV boxes are known carriers. Specifically, the following devices have been identified as impacted by BadBox malware:Device model: TV98, X96Q_Max_P, Q96L2, X96Q2, X96mini, S168, ums512_1h10_Natv, X96_S400, X96mini_RP, TX3mini, HY-001, MX10PRO, X96mini_Plus1, LongTV_GN7501E, Xtv77, NETBOX_B68, X96Q_PR01, AV-M9, ADT-3, OCBN, X96MATE_PLUS, KM1, X96Q_PRO, Projector_T6P, X96QPRO-TM, sp7731e_1h10_native, M8SPROW, TV008, X96Mini_5G, Q96MAX, Orbsmart_TR43, Z6, TVBOX, Smart, KM9PRO, A15, Transpeed, KM7, iSinbox, I96, SMART_TV, Fujicom-SmartTV, MXQ9PRO, MBOX, X96Q, isinbox, Mbox, R11, GameBox, KM6, X96Max_Plus2, TV007, Q9 Stick, SP7731E, H6, X88, X98K, TXCZ2. Your device is not Google-certified: If your Android device doesn’t support Google Play Protect or doesn’t show the Play Protect certification in the Play Store settings, it’s likely running on an uncertified version of Android. That’s a major red flag. To check:Open the Google Play Store.Tap your profile icon > Settings > About.Look for Play Protect certification. If it says “Device is not certified,” that’s a problem.3. Suspicious behavior or strange apps: Look for unfamiliar apps you didn’t install, apps labeled with foreign characters or alternative app stores on your device. BadBox-infected devices often come with shady apps preloaded.4. Google Play Protect is disabled: If Play Protect has been turned off without your knowledge or is missing altogether, your device may be vulnerable to compromise.5. Your home internet is acting strange: If your network is unusually slow or your router shows unknown devices connected, one of your smart devices may be hijacked and rerouting traffic as part of a residential proxy network.6. The device came with outdated or unofficial firmware: If your device doesn’t receive software updates or has a strange update process, that’s another potential sign it’s not legit or may be compromised.FBI WARNS OF SCAM TARGETING VICTIMS WITH FAKE HOSPITALS AND POLICE8 ways to protect your devices from BadBox 2.0 and Android malwareWant to stay safe? Here are eight practical steps you can take to protect your smart devices from BadBox 2.0 malware and other hidden Android threats.1. Use strong antivirus software: Protecting your devices starts with powerful antivirus protection. Malware like BadBox 2.0 often comes preinstalled on cheap, uncertified Android devices, infecting them before you even power them on. A trusted antivirus app can help detect hidden threats, block malicious traffic and warn you about suspicious behavior that might otherwise go unnoticed. Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.2. Only buy certified and trusted devices: Stick to devices certified by Google or other recognized platforms. Avoid generic or off-brand Android boxes, tablets and projectors, especially if they are advertised as unlocked or include free streaming. Cheap, uncertified devices are more likely to come with malware preinstalled.3. Avoid sideloading apps from unofficial sources: Do not install apps from third-party app stores or download APK files from unknown websites. These files can contain hidden malware. Use only official app stores like the Google Play Store that scan apps for threats.4. Check your device settings for tampering: Look for signs like Google Play Protect being turned off, the presence of unfamiliar app stores or suspicious apps running in the background. These are possible signs your device is compromised.GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE5. Monitor your network for unusual activity: If your internet slows down suddenly, or you notice unknown devices on your Wi-Fi, investigate. Use your router’s settings or a network monitoring app to track strange behavior or unauthorized connections.6. Disconnect and replace suspicious hardware: If a device is behaving oddly or was purchased from an untrusted source, unplug it from your network. Consider replacing it with a product from a reputable brand and a verified seller.7. Keep your devices and apps updated: Install system and app updates regularly. Even though cheap devices may not always offer updates, keeping your software current reduces your risk. Choose brands that are known for providing reliable security patches.8. Secure your router and home network: Your devices are only as safe as the network they’re connected to. Set a strong, unique password for your Wi-Fi router and update its firmware regularly. Disable remote access unless absolutely necessary and use WPA3 encryption if available. Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords. Get more details about my best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 here.As BadBox 2.0 continues to evolve, protecting your entire home network, not just individual devices, has become essential to staying one step ahead of cybercriminals.THIS IS WHAT YOU ARE DOING WRONG WHEN SCAMMERS CALLKurt’s key takeawayIt’s alarming how something as simple as a budget streaming box or projector could be quietly working for cybercriminals. As smart devices become part of almost everything we do, being a careful and informed consumer matters more than ever. Small steps like buying from trusted brands and avoiding unofficial downloads can make a big difference in keeping your home and personal data safe.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPWith over a million devices infected, who should be held accountable: manufacturers, governments or consumers? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt:Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

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Scam ads on Facebook have evolved beyond the days of misspelled headlines and sketchy product photos. Today, many are powered by artificial intelligence, fueled by deepfake technology and distributed at scale through Facebook’s own ad system. From fake crypto endorsements by celebrities to malware disguised as video game betas, the landscape of digital scams is smarter, faster and more dangerous than ever.Join the FREE “CyberGuy Report”: Get my expert tech tips, critical security alerts and exclusive deals, plus instant access to my free “Ultimate Scam Survival Guide” when you sign up! Facebook login page displayed on a laptop (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)DON’T CLICK THAT LINK! HOW TO SPOT AND PREVENT PHISHING ATTACKS IN YOUR INBOXHow Facebook scam ads have evolved with AI and deepfakesScammers used to rely on low-effort clickbait, but that era is over. Now, sophisticated schemes are leveraging AI-generated content. Technology is being used to create convincing videos of celebrities endorsing fake products or services. These ads exploit the trust users place in public figures and the perceived legitimacy of Facebook’s advertising platform. These tools can mimic a person’s appearance and voice with alarming accuracy, making it challenging for users to discern real from fake. And these tools are no longer out of reach. Scammers use a mix of freely available AI generators and private networks to mass-produce scam campaigns that look more real than ever.ONE CLICK COST A FATHER $4 MILLION IN BITCOIN TO VISHING SCAMMERSReal examples of Facebook scam ads using celebrity deepfakesOn Reddit, users have posted screenshots of bizarre scam ads that made it through Facebook’s filters:One features an AI-generated video of Kelly Clarkson promoting a suspicious cash giveaway. There are reportedly over 20 accounts using variations of the name “Kelly Clarkson Live.” These ads ask users to comment “Christmas” to receive free money, then instruct them to contact a WhatsApp number to claim their prize, which is a common tactic used to harvest personal information or initiate payment scams.AI CYBERSECURITY RISKS AND DEEPFAKE SCAMS ON THE RISE Screenshots of bizarre Facebook scam ads (Reddit)Another uses Billie Eilish’s face to endorse a knockoff shopping site. The design mimics standard e-commerce ads, making it easy to fall for, especially for fans or younger users. Screenshots of Facebook scam ads (Reddit)How AI tools and deepfake tech power Facebook scam adsThese scams are not the work of lone fraudsters. They are coordinated efforts that mirror real digital marketing operations.Deepfake software is used to create fake video footage of celebrities.AI voice clones make fake endorsements sound eerily convincing.Text generators churn out fake user reviews, comment threads and testimonials.Scam kits with ad templates and deployment instructions circulate in private Telegram groups and Discord servers.These operations are designed to appear legitimate. Landing pages mimic reputable news sites. Comment sections feature AI-written praise. Every element is optimized to build trust and get the click.Who Facebook scam ads target and why you could be nextScammers do not just blast out ads at random. They use Facebook’s ad targeting system to handpick the most vulnerable audiences.Older users are often targeted with health scams or celebrity cash giveaways.Men aged 25-45 are frequently shown crypto or investment ads featuring tech figures.Fans of specific celebrities or shows may see fake endorsements tied to those interests.Users who click on giveaways or contests are more likely to be targeted again, since Facebook tracks interaction history.These groups are targeted because they are either perceived as trusting, impulsive or unfamiliar with how digital scams operate.HOW TO ESCAPE FACEBOOK’S CREEPY AD TRACKINGWhy Facebook scam ads keep getting past Meta’s moderationDespite Meta’s claims of robust ad review, scam ads still make it through frequently and quickly. Here is why:Most ads are approved by automated systems that cannot catch nuanced AI fakery.Scammers use geographic targeting to show ads in regions less likely to report fraud or where enforcement is weak.The ads often run for only a short time before disappearing, making them harder to catch.Even with tools like facial recognition being tested to detect unauthorized celebrity use, these systems have not been widely implemented. Meanwhile, investigations by consumer advocacy groups and cybersecurity firms have found that a significant portion of crypto-related Facebook ads are fraudulent. With scammers paying for ad space, Meta has little financial incentive to aggressively remove them.Common signs of Facebook scam ads: What to watch forScam ads can be surprisingly well-made, but common themes show up again and again. Watch for:Free game betas or giveaways, especially ones that require downloads.Celebrity endorsements promoting crypto, weight-loss pills or supplements.Mimicked news articles or fake media logos.Urgent claims or miracle results, which are classic scam tactics.If an ad prompts you to download a file, especially a .zip or .rar, it is almost certainly a trap. Facebook app on home screen of a smartphone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)HOW TO SPOT THE RED FLAGS FOR THIS LATEST FACEBOOK MARKETPLACE SCAMHow to protect yourself from AI-powered Facebook scam adsHere is how to stay safe and help others do the same:1. Check the source: If it is an ad, approach it with extra skepticism. Look it up independently.2. Do not download files from ads: Especially avoid compressed formats like .zip or .rar, which often contain malware.3. Verify endorsements: If a celebrity is promoting something, check their official social media or public statements.4. Report suspicious ads: Even if you are not sure, reporting helps Meta identify fraudulent activity.5. Talk to friends and family: Especially older adults, who may be more trusting of what they see on Facebook.WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?6. Be wary of unsolicited messages or friend requests and install strong antivirus software: Scammers often use fake profiles to send scam ads or phishing links via Facebook Messenger or friend requests. Avoid clicking links from unknown contacts. Also, install strong antivirus software, which adds a layer of defense that can block malware from scam links. 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.7. Consider using a password manager: If your credentials are compromised, this minimizes the risk of attackers accessing other accounts. A password manager can securely store and generate complex passwords. It will help you create unique and difficult-to-crack passwords that a hacker could never guess. Second, it also keeps track of all your passwords in one place and fills passwords in for you when you’re logging into an account, so that you never have to remember them yourself. The fewer passwords you remember, the less likely you are to reuse them for your accounts. Get more details about my best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 here.8. Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA): 2FA can prevent unauthorized logins even if your password is stolen.9. Regularly update your software and apps: Keeping your operating system, browsers and Facebook app updated ensures you have the latest security patches that can block known vulnerabilities exploited by scammers.Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web.Kurt’s key takeawaysScam ads on Facebook are evolving fast, using AI-generated content, fake celebrity endorsements and deepfakes to trick users into clicking. What looks like a game beta or cash giveaway can actually lead to malware, phishing scams or fake crypto schemes. Facebook’s ad review system isn’t catching these in time, which means users need to stay alert. Be skeptical of ads, avoid downloading files, install trusted antivirus software and talk to family members who may be more vulnerable.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPGiven how widespread and sophisticated scam ads have become on Facebook, do you think Meta should be held more accountable for protecting users, and if so, what actions should they take to better prevent these scams? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt:Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

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If you’ve ever wondered what’s next for prosthetic technology, you’re not alone. For many people living with limb loss, finding a prosthetic that feels natural and works seamlessly with their body has always been a challenge. Now, a California startup called Atom Bodies is making headlines for its groundbreaking approach to prosthetic technology. By combining artificial intelligence, machine learning and advanced sensor systems, Atom Bodies is developing mind-controlled robotic arms that could soon make highly advanced prosthetics accessible to thousands of amputees.Join the FREE “CyberGuy Report”: Get my expert tech tips, critical security alerts and exclusive deals, plus instant access to my free “Ultimate Scam Survival Guide” when you sign up! A man wearing an Atom Touch prosthetic arm (Atom Bodies)How the Atom Touch prosthetic arm uses AI and muscle signalsAtom Bodies’ flagship product, Atom Touch, is setting a new standard in prosthetic arms. Unlike traditional prosthetics, which often offer only basic movement and can be uncomfortable to wear, Atom Touch uses EMG (electromyography) sensors placed on the user’s skin to detect muscle activity. These signals are then interpreted by machine-learning algorithms, allowing users to control individual fingers, the wrist and the elbow with remarkable precision just by thinking about the movement they want to make.AI ENABLES PARALYZED MAN TO CONTROL ROBOTIC ARM WITH BRAIN SIGNALSThe arm is powered by the Atom A1, an AI neural interface that can be trained in minutes for intuitive, natural control. The design also includes a load-balanced harness, which distributes weight across the torso, making the device lighter and more comfortable for all-day use. A man wearing an Atom Touch prosthetic arm and playing soccer (Atom Bodies)SOFT ROBOTIC PROSTHETIC HAND USES NERVE SIGNALS FOR MORE NATURAL CONTROLKey features of the Atom Touch AI-powered prosthetic armAtom Touch stands out for several reasons. It is the first prosthetic arm to offer true individual finger movement, which means users can perform tasks like typing, gripping and delicate manipulation with much greater ease. The device uses the Atom A1 AI neural interface, which learns from the user’s muscle signals to provide seamless, natural movement. Dozens of sensors in the hand generate haptic feedback, so users can better gauge grip strength and control. With more than 10 motors in the hand alone, Atom Touch offers a near-human range of motion and dexterity. The load-balanced harness system also makes the arm lighter than a human arm and comfortable enough for extended wear, addressing a challenge that many current prosthetics have yet to solve.WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)? A person wearing an Atom Touch prosthetic arm and carrying a tray (Atom Bodies)WORLD’S FIRST TOUCH-SENSING BIONIC HAND WITH LIGHTNING-FAST RESPONSEWhy mind-controlled prosthetics like Atom Touch matter for amputeesFor the more than 2 million Americans living with limb loss, current prosthetic options are often expensive, uncomfortable and limited in capability. Jason Morris, who lost his arm due to a work accident and is Atom Bodies’ lead test user, notes that most prosthetics can only be worn for about two hours due to discomfort. Atom Touch is designed for initial wear of four to six hours, with the goal of achieving all-day use. Atom Bodies has already attracted significant interest, with over 11,000 people on its wait list and plans to begin clinical trials within the next year, pending FDA approval. Jason Morris, Atom Bodies’ lead test user (Atom Bodies)WIRELESS WATERPROOF BIONIC HAND WITH 360-DEGREE WRIST ROTATIONAtom Touch pricing: How affordable is this advanced prosthetic arm?One of the most transformative aspects of Atom Touch is its price point. While state-of-the-art myoelectric arms can cost around $200,000, Atom Bodies plans to offer Atom Touch for approximately $25,000. This brings the cost in line with basic hook prosthetics, making advanced bionic limbs accessible to a much larger population.SUBSCRIBE TO KURT’S YOUTUBE CHANNEL FOR QUICK VIDEO TIPS ON HOW TO WORK ALL OF YOUR TECH DEVICES A woman wearing an Atom Touch prosthetic arm and assembling furniture (Atom Bodies)BEST FATHER’S DAY GIFTS FOR EVERY DADKurt’s key takeawaysSeeing Atom Bodies bring this level of innovation to prosthetics feels like a real turning point for people with limb loss. With technology that’s both advanced and affordable, Atom Touch could help many regain abilities and comfort that have been out of reach for years. As the company moves closer to launching, there is a sense of real possibility for a future where high-quality prosthetics are available to many more people who need them.If you or someone you know could benefit from this technology, what would be the most important factor in choosing a prosthetic arm? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPFor more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt:Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

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Apple’s iPad has a strong reputation for security. Thanks to the system architecture of iOS, a non-jailbroken iPad isn’t susceptible to typical viruses or malware infections. However, that doesn’t mean it’s completely safe from every threat. As with any computer, there are still vulnerabilities that determined hackers can exploit.iPads are generally secure devices, but it’s still possible for hackers to gain access, so knowing the warning signs of a hacked iPad can help you act quickly to protect your data. Moreover, an iPad often contains a lot of personal information about you and your family, so if it’s ever hacked, it can be quite alarming.Join the FREE “CyberGuy Report”: Get my expert tech tips, critical security alerts and exclusive deals, plus instant access to my free “Ultimate Scam Survival Guide” when you sign up! An Apple iPad (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)How to tell if your iPad has been hackedBe on the lookout for these signs that could indicate your iPad’s security has been compromised:1) iPad running slow? It could be a sign of malwareIf your iPad suddenly feels more like a sluggish turtle than the speedy device it used to be, that’s a warning sign. When a device is hacked, malicious software might be running in the background, using up memory and processing power. This can make apps slow to open, cause lagging or freezing and even lead to more frequent crashes. You might also notice the battery draining much faster than usual along with the slowdown, since unwanted software can chew through battery life while it secretly runs in the background.2) Pop-up ads on iPad? You might have adware or a virusA sudden flood of pop-up ads or strange messages on your iPad screen is a big red flag. Under normal circumstances, iPads should not bombard you with random pop-ups, especially outside of safe apps or websites. If you start seeing lots of unsolicited ads or “Your iPad is hacked!” alerts popping up, it could mean an adware program or scam has found its way onto the device. These pop-ups might try to trick you or your kids into clicking links or downloading something harmful, so they’re not just annoying, they’re dangerous signs that something is wrong. An Apple iPad (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)HOW TO PROTECT AN IPHONE & IPAD FROM MALWARE 20253) Unusual data usage on iPad? Watch for these network hacking signsKeep an eye on how the iPad is using the internet. An unusual spike in data usage or constant network activity (even when no one is actively using the iPad) might indicate the device is secretly sending or receiving information without your permission. For example, if your data plan suddenly maxes out or you notice the Wi-Fi icon flickering with activity when the iPad is idle, it could be a sign that a hacker’s software is communicating in the background. Such suspicious network activity is concerning because it suggests someone else might be remotely accessing the iPad or siphoning off personal data.HOW TO TRANSFER INFO FROM AN OLD IPAD TO A NEW IPAD4) iPad hacked? Look for these Apple ID account changesOne clear warning sign is finding changes to your Apple account that you didn’t make. If your Apple ID password was changed without your knowledge or you receive security alerts about logins you never did, be wary; a hacker may have gained access to your account.You might also discover that account details or settings (like your recovery email or trusted phone number) have been altered. Another clue is seeing unfamiliar charges or App Store purchases on your Apple ID bill, since unauthorized purchases or subscriptions often mean that someone has compromised your account and is using it maliciously. An Apple iPad (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)BEST VPNS FOR IPHONES & IPADS – CYBERGUY PICKS 2025Top tips to protect your iPad from hackers and malwareIf you suspect your iPad has been hacked, taking immediate action can secure your device and give you peace of mind. Here are a few basic steps to help you respond:1) Reset your passwords: Change your Apple ID password right away (and any other important account passwords used on the iPad) to lock out any intruders. Using a strong password (think long, random and unique to each account) greatly reduces that risk. A password manager can help you generate and store complex passwords so you don’t have to remember them all yourself. Get more details about my best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 here.2) Remove unfamiliar apps: Check the iPad for any apps you or your child didn’t install. If you find an unknown app or a suspicious profile, delete it immediately. This helps eliminate any malicious programs the hacker may have added. To do this, open Settings, tap General  > iPad Storage, scroll to find the unfamiliar app, tap it, then tap Delete App and confirm.3) Update iOS: Make sure the iPad is running the latest version of iPadOS. Apple frequently releases security updates to fix vulnerabilities, so updating the software can shut down any loopholes the hacker might have used. Turning on automatic updates is a good idea to stay protected going forward.4) Enable two-factor authentication: If you haven’t already, turn on two-factor authentication for your Apple ID account. This feature adds an extra verification step (like a code sent to your phone) whenever someone tries to sign in, which can stop hackers in their tracks even if they somehow know your password. It’s an excellent safeguard to prevent unauthorized access.5) Have strong antivirus protection on all devices: Malware, spyware and viruses can run quietly in the background or compromise enough data before it is discovered. While not being hacked in the first place is the best position to be in, it is worse to give access to your iPad’s data to a hacker for a prolonged period of time. That’s why having strong antivirus software running consistently in the background of your device is a great way to prevent compromises from happening in the first place. Best antivirus security software and apps to protect you.CAN IPHONE TEXTS HAVE MALWARE? SPOT & AVOID SMS SCAMSKurt’s key takeawayIt’s important to remember that many of these symptoms can have innocent explanations, so don’t panic at the first sign of trouble. For example, a new iOS update or a heavy app can temporarily slow down your iPad’s performance, so one isolated issue doesn’t always mean you’ve been hacked. However, if you notice multiple warning signs at the same time or anything that just doesn’t feel right, it’s best to act quickly and err on the side of caution.Do you think Apple should do more to help users spot and respond to potential hacks? Let us know your experience or questions by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact. Your story could help someone else stay safe.For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt:Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.