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Explore every episode of the podcast The CyberGuy Report

Dive into the complete episode list for The CyberGuy Report. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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1–43 of 43

TitlePub. DateDuration
[Ep. 43] I survived Hurricane Katrina (here's what I learned)26 Aug 202600:32:14

In August 2005, I flew to New Orleans on a trip with my parents and ended up trapped downtown as Hurricane Katrina came ashore. I got my mom and dad onto the last flight out, then checked back into a hotel that promised it was the "model of hurricane preparedness." Within days, the food was gone, the generators were dying, gunfire echoed through the streets, and nine feet of water surrounded the building. Carlos Amezcua, the KTLA anchor who interviewed me while I was trapped in New Orleans, joins me in studio to walk back through it. What I learned in those days became the Hurricane prep checklist I have used ever since, and I share all of it here.What You Will Learn This Episode:- How to find and save your home's exact GPS coordinates in under a minute, and why rescuers cannot reach you without them- Why your cell tower stops working roughly 48 hours after the power goes out, and what still works after that- What belongs in the Ziploc bag Kurt keeps ready at all times- How to choose an emergency radio that wakes you up before a storm arrives instead of after- Why a hotel or building that says it is prepared can still run out of food and water in days- How to set up Emergency SOS by satellite on your phone before you need it, and the one mistake that keeps it from working- What to keep charged, and where to store the backup power everyone forgets- Why the scams coming after a disaster can do as much damage as the storm


Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to https://cyberguy.com/podcast/ to find the show on other platforms.

[Ep. 42] Voicemail with no missed call? It's a scam19 Aug 202600:07:37

Voicemail with no missed call? That silent voicemail scam is how criminals confirm your phone number is real, and blocking the number will never stop it. A viewer named Mike started getting empty voicemails from numbers that never rang his phone. He blocked one. Twenty minutes later, another arrived from a different number. Then another. I explain how ringless voicemail works, why every number you block comes back as a new one, and why the call that comes next is the one that can cost you everything.What You Will Learn This Episode:- Why your phone never rings before these voicemails land- How ringless voicemail gets into your inbox without going through your phone- Why blocking the number does absolutely nothing to stop it- What scammers actually learn the second you open that message- How your phone number gets stamped confirmed and sold to worse criminals- The exact iPhone setting that makes unknown callers explain themselves first- What to ask your carrier for by name, because they will not offer it- How to report these calls to the FTC and get your number off broker lists


Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to https://cyberguy.com/podcast/ to find the show on other platforms. Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.

[Ep. 41] This judge spent 16 years on the bench, one ruling ended it12 Aug 202600:09:25

Jennifer had never even had a speeding ticket. Then she posted on Facebook about the dirty water coming out of taps in Trinidad, Texas, and two police officers showed up at her front door with a felony warrant. 


She was handcuffed in her own front yard and held in the Navarro County Jail for 23 hours. Before the arrest, her post was mass-reported and wiped off Facebook by a group locals call the Cartel of Trinidad. 


The one person inside city hall who stood up and said this had gone too far was the town's judge of 16 years, Judge Bivens. What happened to her next tells you everything about how far a small town will go to keep people quiet.


What You Will Learn This Episode:

  • How a small group can get your Facebook post erased in hours, even when everything in it is true

  • Why a mom of four with no criminal record was handcuffed in her front yard and jailed for 23 hours

  • What happened to the Trinidad judge who refused to go along with the arrest

  • How a man holding a protest sign outside city hall ended up in the back of a police car

  • Why the city's water clerk lost her job for refusing to sign a statement

  • What Judge Bivens says the police chief told her before Jennifer was arrested

  • Why families in this Texas town say the tap water is burning their kids

  • What Kurt and Judge Bivens would say to Mark Zuckerberg about the takedown that started all of this


    Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to https://cyberguy.com/podcast/ to find the show on other platforms. Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.

[Ep. 40] Hackers are sending fake birthday party invitations right now05 Aug 202600:08:48

A phishing email disguised as a party invitation is installing malware on PCs and it arrives from a name you already trust in your inbox. Baby shower. Wedding. Retirement party. These are the emails you've opened a hundred times without a second thought. But this phishing attack hides a remote access tool behind a fake "download invitation" button and one click hands a hacker full control of your computer. I break down exactly what this email scam is hiding, why this malware skips your phone and targets computers only, and how it weaponizes your own contact list to spread to everyone you know. If you already clicked, I'll walk you through how to remove the virus from your PC and whether your computer has been compromised.🔔 Free scam alerts at https://cyberguy.com/subscribeWhat You Will Learn This Episode:- How to spot a phishing email before you click anything- Why the scam email always comes from a name you recognize- What the fake "download invitation" button actually installs- How to check a web address for the fake brand name trick- What to do if you already downloaded the file, and how to remove the virus from your PC- How to know if your PC is hacked after you clicked something you shouldn't have- Why this malware only runs on computers and skips your phone- How scammers use your contact list to send the same email to everyone you know


Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to https://cyberguy.com/podcast/ to find the show on other platforms. Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.

[Ep. 39] This humanoid robot hit a child (and it only gets worse)29 Jul 202600:10:16

Humanoid robot fails caught on camera, and these AI robots are not glitching safely in a lab. 


One kicks two men out of an office. One punches a stranger in a crowd with a senior citizen standing feet away. One goes into full freak-out mode while the engineers who built it run for the door, held back by nothing but a crane cable. And one hits a small child in the gut at an outdoor event packed with families. 


I watch all these videos with longtime friend and Emmy-Award-winning TV journalist Lu Parker, who walked out shocked by what she had just seen.


What You Will Learn This Episode:

  • Why humanoid robots still in test mode keep ending up in crowds of ordinary people

  • What happens when a robot turns on the engineers standing right beside it

  • Why the missing off button is the most alarming detail in every one of these clips

  • What Lu spotted in the robot's reaction that most viewers scroll right past

  • Why Kurt says a friendly food delivery robot could turn on you over something as small as a barking dog

  • How close that child at the festival came to something far worse than a bruise

  • Why "it's just a demo" stops being a defense the second these machines are near kids


Thank you to Lu Parker for coming on to the show. Please check out her:

Substack: https://luparkermedia.substack.com/

Instagram: @luparkerla


Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to https://cyberguy.com/podcast/ to find the show on other platforms. Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.

[Ep. 38] Your computer, car, and fridge are making MONEY off your screens (here's why)15 Jul 202600:10:12

Windows 11 ads, Samsung fridge ads, and pop-ups in your Jeep: you paid for all three devices, so why are they still selling to you?


You own your computer. You own your fridge. You own your car. Yet all three keep interrupting you with ads on screens you already paid for. In this episode, I walk you through an ordinary morning where your own smart devices start selling to you: from the Windows 11 start menu ads and lock screen promotions, to a widget on your Samsung smart fridge, to a pop-up on your dashboard before you've even left the driveway. One of them is even disguised as a warning.


None of it is an accident. And all of it was hidden in the fine print you agreed to. The good news? Today I'll show you exactly how to remove ads from all three devices and take back control of the screens you paid for.


What You Will Learn This Episode:

  • How to turn off ads in your Windows 11 start menu and lock screen
  • The fake "action advised" alert on your PC that's really a Microsoft sales pitch
  • How to stop the ads on your Samsung Family Hub refrigerator (the switch is buried three menus deep)
  • Why your car's dashboard started showing pop-ups, and whether they're coming back
  • The line in the fine print that makes all of this legal
  • How you quietly became the product these companies sell to
  • The exact settings to kill ads on your computer, fridge, and car


Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to https://cyberguy.com/podcast/ to find the show on other platforms. Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.

[Ep. 37] This DMV scam is costing people thousands01 Jul 202600:10:27

An audience member named Todd got a text saying he owed the California DMV $160 and his license was about to be suspended.


One problem: he hadn't lived in California for over ten years. So he sent it to Kurt with a simple question, is this real?


What Kurt found hidden inside that one text reveals exactly how the scam works, and the five red flags that give it away before you ever tap the link.


What You Will Learn This Episode:

  • How to spot the one detail in the phone number that proves the text is fake

  • Why the real DMV will never contact you about a violation by text

  • What actually happens in the 48 hours after you fill out that fake form

  • The reason replying with a single letter makes everything worse

  • How to verify a real DMV notice in under a minute, the safe way

  • What to do the moment you realize you tapped a scam link

  • How to block, report, and scrub your info so the texts finally stop

Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to https://cyberguy.com/podcast/ to find the show on other platforms. Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.

[Ep. 36] The bank scam stealing your family's savings24 Jun 202600:10:06

Scam calls are emptying retirement accounts faster than ever, and the scammers behind them aren't who you think. This true crime look at financial fraud could protect your retirement and your family's future.Kurt sits down with Darius Kingsley, JPMorgan Chase's head of scam prevention, to pull back the curtain on the global operation behind those calls, and exactly what you can do to stop it.This is not just another scam alert. It's an inside look at organized criminal networks using forced labor compounds in Southeast Asia, psychological manipulation, and bank fraud to target everyday families. And it's happening at record levels right now.Darius reveals how scammers operate, what JPMorgan's fraud alert systems are detecting in real time, and the steps every family should take before a scam call ever comes through. Whether you've already lost money or want to protect someone in retirement you love, this conversation could save a family's future.What You Will Learn in This Episode:- How scammers coach your family member on exactly what to say before they ever walk into the bank- Why that "law enforcement" call might actually be coming from a forced labor compound in Southeast Asia- What bank tellers are secretly trained to watch for that can stop a scam before the money leaves- How to add a trusted contact to your bank account so the bank can alert someone you trust- What red flags signal that a family member is being targeted by scammers right now- Why acting in the first minutes after a scam is critical, and what your very first call should be- How to file a report with the FBI's IC3 and why it matters more than you might think


Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to https://cyberguy.com/podcast/ to find the show on other platforms. Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.

[Ep. 35] Mother arrested after a Facebook post about dirty water10 Jun 202600:10:07

When Jennifer Combs saw sewage-colored water pouring from her neighbors' faucets in Trinidad, Texas, she did what any good neighbor would do: she spoke up online.


She made a Facebook post to gather information from residents who were silenced from speaking up about their water concerns.


Days later, two officers arrested her in her own front yard on a felony charge for "causing public panic." Jennifer Combs is a mom of four who'd never even had a speeding ticket.


What unfolds next, a fired water clerk, a fired judge, and the real person who made the call to have her arrested, is so unbelievable that Jennifer Combs, a published crime thriller author, says she couldn't have written it herself.


What You Will Learn This Episode:

- Why speaking up on Facebook about a local problem can suddenly turn you into a target

- What to do when your Facebook posts are mass-reported and deleted to silence you

- How a small group can quietly control a town and punish anyone who pushes back

- Why reporting a problem to the state matters when local officials won't act

- The truth about who actually ordered Jennifer's arrest, and why

- How retaliation against critics can backfire in shocking ways

- What real courage looks like when standing up for your community gets you punished

- Why staying silent isn't the safe choice you think it is


Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to https://cyberguy.com/podcast/ to find the show on other platforms. Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.

[Ep. 34] Is that Social Security email in your inbox real?03 Jun 202600:13:23

Candace almost clicked a button that would have handed scammers her Social Security number, bank credentials, and her entire identity. The email looked completely official, but one tiny detail didn't add up, and Candace paused just long enough to forward it to Kurt.


In this episode, Kurt walks through the actual email Candace received, breaks down exactly why it almost worked, and gives you five specific things to check before you ever click another link from a government address.


What You Will Learn This Episode:

  • Why fake SSA emails are so convincing and what makes them different from the real thing

  • The single red flag in Candace's email that exposed the whole scam

  • What actually happens to your device the moment you click that download button

  • How scammers use your answers on a fake form to call your bank and pretend to be you

  • Why you might not find out you've been scammed until weeks or months later

  • How to check any email address in five seconds to know if it's really from the government

  • The five steps Kurt uses to verify any official-looking email before taking action

  • What antivirus software can actually stop, even if you accidentally click


    Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to ⁠⁠https://cyberguy.com/podcast/⁠⁠ to find the show on other platforms. Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.

[Ep. 33] Is your insurance app tracking you right now?27 May 202600:10:01

Jan emailed Kurt with a question most of us have never thought to ask: why does her insurance app need her location, her health data, and her movement… all day, every day. 


Turns out, modern insurance apps have quietly turned your phone into a surveillance device, using something called telematics to measure every mile you drive, every step you take, and how well you sleep at night. And in some cases, they're not just collecting that data, they're selling it.


Kurt walks you through exactly what these apps are harvesting, why insurers want it, and three specific steps to keep your discount without handing over your entire digital life.

What You Will Learn This Episode:

  • How insurance companies use your phone to silently track your driving, health, and daily routines without most people realizing it
  • Why tapping "allow" during a simple app setup may be the most expensive mistake you make this year
  • The difference between car insurer tracking apps and health insurer wellness apps and what each one can actually see
  • How a lawsuit revealed that one major insurance app sold 45 million Americans' driving data without their knowledge
  • How to change your iPhone or Android location settings right now to stop all-day background tracking
  • How to find and revoke the health data your insurance app is quietly pulling from Apple Health or Google Health Connect


Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to https://cyberguy.com/podcast/ to find the show on other platforms. Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.

[Ep. 32] Jury Duty scam stole $10,000 from Arizona woman20 May 202600:14:57

What happens when you miss jury duty?


Like most normal people, Gale had no idea. She had just finished up work on her 70th birthday when she discovered a voicemail from an unknown number. 


The caller claimed to be an enforcement officer, informing her that if she didn’t pay the hefty $10,000 fine immediately, she was going to be in even bigger trouble. 


Within hours, thousands of dollars were gone.


But this story does not end there. Thanks to a new law in Arizona, Gale was able to recover her money and turn a devastating situation into a powerful lesson for others.


In this episode we explore: 

• How scammers can easily impersonate law enforcement

• The psychological tactics used to pressure victims into acting quickly

• Why cryptocurrency ATMs are a common tool in modern scams

• The warning signs that indicate you’re being scammed

• What to do immediately if you suspect a scam • How new legislation can help recover stolen funds

• Steps you can take to protect yourself and your family


Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to ⁠https://cyberguy.com/podcast/⁠ to find the show on other platforms. Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.

[Ep. 31] How facial recognition put an innocent grandmother behind bars13 May 202600:14:49

A 50-year-old grandmother in Tennessee was babysitting when US Marshals showed up at her door with guns drawn.


The charge: bank fraud in Fargo, North Dakota, more than a thousand miles away, in a state she had never set foot in.


The only evidence? A facial recognition match from Clearview AI, run against photos pulled from social media.


Angela Lipps spent more than five months in jail before her defense attorney, Jay Greenwood, finally got somebody to listen. This is what happens when AI gets treated like proof instead of a clue.


What You Will Learn in This Episode:

- How a single facial recognition match landed an innocent grandmother in jail for over five months

- Why the photos you've posted on social media may already be in a Clearview AI database

- What detectives should have done before issuing an arrest warrant

- How attorney Jay Greenwood proved Angela was a thousand miles away from the crime

- What to say (and not say) if police ever come to your door for something you didn't do

- How to remove your photos from facial recognition databases before this happens to you

- Why this case is a warning for anyone who has ever shared a picture online

- The simple piece of evidence that finally got Angela's case dismissed


Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to https://cyberguy.com/podcast/ to find the show on other platforms. Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.

[Ep. 30] SIM card swap scam: How hackers drain your bank account in minutes 06 May 202600:12:02

Patricia lost service on her cell phone. The next morning, she was out thousands of dollars. In this episode, we break down a real-life example of how quick and vicious SIM-card swapping scandals can really be. 

We walk through:

  • What SIM swap scams are and how they work

  • Warning signs to look out for

  • Why banks and carriers sometimes fail to stop fraud quickly

  • The timeline of how the money was stolen 

  • What to do immediately if you think you’re being hacked 

  • Practical steps to protect your accounts

This episode is a must-listen for anyone who uses their phone for banking, social media, or authentication codes.

Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to ⁠https://cyberguy.com/podcast/⁠ to find the show on other platforms. Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.

[Ep. 29] Fake phone numbers on Google are scamming people right now29 Apr 202600:11:52

Rosette needed to file a travel insurance claim, so she did what anyone would do, she Googled the phone number. Someone picked up immediately, sounded completely professional, and asked for her credit card and date of birth. It wasn't until the pricing felt off and a confirmation email didn't match the official website that she realized she'd been talking to a scammer the entire time. This is called a search result scam, and it's one of the fastest-growing fraud tactics happening right now, and it's hiding at the very top of your Google results.Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms. Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.

[Ep. 28] Florida man loses $200K in PayPal Scam, then helps police catch scammer22 Apr 202600:22:48

An 85-year-old man receives what looks like a harmless PayPal refund email… and within days, he out $200,000. He was ashamed and lost. But instead of staying silent, he worked with the police to set up a sting operation, seeking at least partial justice for his misfortunes.


In this episode, we break down one of the most sophisticated refund scams we’ve seen, how it unfolded step-by-step, and the red flags everyone should know about. 


In this episode we discuss:

  • How a fake PayPal refund email started the scam

  • The mirrored bank website that made everything look real

  • How crypto ATMs are often used by scammers 

  • The moment he realized he was being scammed 

  • How scammers isolate victims and create urgency

  • The police sting operation to catch the scammer 

  • The multi-million dollar scams this trial cracked open

  • Partial justice – the arrest and 18-year prison sentence

  • Why victims rarely recover their money

  • Common scam variations involving warrants and gold

  • Warning signs everyone should watch for

  • The red flags and top tips the policeman (whatever his title is) suggests people do in these types of scams (“"Do the research yourself and figure out what that real phone number is"”)

This story is shocking and unfortunately, not at all rare. Just like Brian, at CyberGuy we feel a duty to share these stories far and wide. If we can help even one person recognize the warning signs and cut off a scam at the pass, we’ve done our job. 

Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.

Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.

[Ep. 27] Your TV, doorbell, and car are spying on you... here’s what they know15 Apr 202600:16:24

You didn't hand over your life to big tech, but your smart devices did it for you. In this episode, Kurt breaks down the five most alarming privacy clauses buried inside the smart home gadgets most of us already own: your TV, your Ring doorbell, your Amazon Echo, and yes, even your car. The revelations are infuriating — and most of it was turned on by default the moment you plugged in. The good news? Kurt walks you through exactly how to shut every single one of these down, step by step, without getting rid of any of your devices.


What You Will Learn in This Episode:

  • How your smart TV is watching what you watch and selling it to advertisers in real time
  • Why your Ring doorbell has built a detailed map of your daily routine — including when you leave for work
  • What it means that real Amazon employees can listen to recordings from inside your home
  • How one automaker was logging your vehicle speed 25 times per second — and selling it to your insurance company
  • Why your Amazon Echo has been saving every conversation you've had since the day you bought it
  • How to turn off smart TV tracking on Roku and Samsung in under two minutes
  • The exact steps to lock down your Ring app, delete your Alexa history, and opt out of car data sharing
  • Why these devices are priced so low — and what you're actually paying with

Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.


Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.

[Ep. 26] She drove to the bank with a scammer on the phone… almost lost $15,00008 Apr 202600:27:28

Dorothy Rhode got a text that looked exactly like a legitimate Apple Pay fraud alert. She called the number in the message, and the man who answered already knew her name, her address, and which banks she used. 


He told her she'd been targeted by corrupt bank employees, that he was working with the FBI and FDIC, and that she needed to pull $15,000 in cash immediately and tell no one. She got in her car and drove to the bank. What happened next is the reason she's telling this story. Kurt breaks down how this scam works, why even sharp people fall for it, and exactly what to do if it happens to you.


What you will learn in this episode:

  • How a text message that looks completely real can be the opening move of a $15,000 scam

  • Why scammers already know your name, address, and bank before they call you — and how to stop that

  • What to say to a bank teller if you ever feel something's wrong, even mid-transaction

  • How to set a daily withdrawal limit on your account so scammers can't drain it even if they get in

  • Why hanging up without saying a word is almost always your best defense

  • How to filter unknown callers and unknown text senders on your iPhone so scam messages never reach you

  • Why the "Do Not Call Registry" does nothing — and what actually works instead

  • What real red flags look like: urgency, secrecy, and any request involving cash

Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.


Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail. 

[Ep. 25] Big Tech knows AI isn’t safe for kids, but they’re cashing in anyway01 Apr 202600:24:00

In this episode of Beyond Connected, we dive deep into the world of AI-powered toys and the risks they pose for children. AI companies insist their chatbots aren’t meant for kids, yet third-party developers are creating toys that put these chatbots directly into the hands of children. RJ Cross, a researcher from the Public Interest Research Group PIRG joins the show to uncover the loopholes, risks, and what parents need to know.


What you’ll learn in this episode:

  • Why AI chatbots like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini are not designed for children, yet appear in toys.

  • How third-party developers exploit loopholes to insert AI into toys without proper safeguards.

  • Real examples of AI toys giving dangerous instructions or engaging in inappropriate conversations.

  • The lack of transparency around AI models and privacy policies leaves parents in the dark.

  • How revenue incentives drive companies to allow AI in kids’ toys despite safety risks.

  • The role of legislators, lobbyists, and potential solutions like citizen tech oversight boards.

  • Practical takeaways for parents: how to evaluate AI toys, identify risks, and protect children.

Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.


Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail. 

[Ep. 24] Text Scams, Deepfakes & Outdated Computers: Your Biggest Cybersecurity Questions Answered25 Mar 202600:19:05

Today on Beyond Connected, we’re answering your biggest cybersecurity questions - from suspicious texts to deepfake scams and outdated computers.

Are you unknowingly putting your personal data at risk? Let’s break it all down.

  • Is this text message a scam? Here’s how to find out.

  • Is a dedicated financial computer a smart idea? If you do it right, yes!

  • How do I saved my loved one from a deepfake impersonation or romance scam? This one’s tricky...I’ll walk you through it.

  • Shouldn’t the FTC help with these impersonation scams? Yes, but it’s not that simple.

  • How do I know if my computer is too old? I’ve got a nifty list you can reference to find out if your operating system is too old. And if it is, you may be at risk. 

Thanks for sending in these fantastic questions! If you have a question about data privacy, technology, cybersecurity, or scams, feel free to leave us a message! Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail. 


Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.

[Ep. 23] Police thought she was a porch pirate… Then the Security Camera told the truth18 Mar 202600:25:24

In this episode of Beyond Connected, we speak with Chrisanna Elser, whose life took a shocking turn when a police officer knocked on her door and accused her of stealing a package from a nearby home.

Lucky for her, she was the perfect person to fight this kind of case. Using footage from her dash cam, surveillance systems, and even her Google Timeline, she quickly assembled the evidence to prove her innocence. 

What began as a simple misunderstanding quickly revealed deeper questions about how surveillance technology is used, how much we rely on it, and what happens when the system gets it wrong.


In this episode, we explore

• How license plate reader technology identified the wrong person

• What happened when police refused to review evidence that proved innocence

• How personal technology helped build a defense

• The surprising role of Google Timeline in clearing her name

• Why surveillance tools need guardrails and oversight

• The hidden risks of modern surveillance technology

• What you should do to protect yourself if technology falsely accuses you


Chrisanna’s story raises a powerful question for the digital age.


If technology can be used to accuse you, should you also be using technology to defend yourself?

Watch the full conversation to hear how one woman turned the tables on a false accusation and what we can all learn about privacy, surveillance and digital evidence.


Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to ⁠www.getbeyondconnected.com⁠ to find the show on other platforms.


Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.

[Ep. 22] Donny Osmond performs with his AI younger self in Las Vegas 11 Mar 202600:24:46

What would it feel like to perform a duet with your 14-year-old self?


In this episode, we sit down with entertainment icon Donny Osmond to talk about the surreal experience of sharing the Las Vegas stage with an AI powered digital version of himself. Using archival photos, voice samples from his teenage years, and next-generation stage technology, Donny is literally performing with his younger self in front of a live audience.

But this conversation goes far beyond nostalgia. 


Donny isn’t just embracing new technology, he truly understands it. From AI and digital twins to fan apps and social media strategy, he’s deeply engaged with the tools shaping hte future of entertainment. It’s a fascinating look at how a legendary performer continues to reinvent himself in a world powered by technology.


We dive deep into AI ethics, artist rights, deepfake risks, fan apps, social media, space travel, and what it really means to reinvent yourself in the digital age.


This is a masterclass in staying relevant in a world powered by AI.


If you care about technology, creativity, AI ethics, digital twins, celebrity reinvention, or the future of entertainment, this one is for you.


In this episode, we cover:

• How AI recreated 14-year-old Donny for a live Vegas show

• The technology behind the holobox stage illusion

• The ethics of AI in music and protecting artists

• Whether AI is helping or hurting creative industries

• Launching a dedicated fan app instead of relying only on social media

• Thoughts on space travel and modern tech billionaires

• Favorite gadgets, security upgrades, and smart home privacy


Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.


Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.

[Ep. 21] Susan Powter: From "Stop the Insanity" fame to a tech-powered comeback04 Mar 202600:27:43

In this powerful episode of Beyond Connected, we sit down with wellness icon Susan Powter for one of the most raw and inspiring conversations we've ever had. After disappearing from the spotlight at the height of her fame, Susan opens up about financial collapse, exploitation, isolation, and surviving rock bottom.

 

And there's one huge reason why this story belongs on our show: technology did not destroy her life. It helped save it.

 

This episode is about how digital platforms, technological autonomy, and direct to audience technology allowed Susan to rebuild her identity, income, and voice in a world that had moved on without her.

 

This is not just a comeback story. It is a survival story powered by the internet.

 

In this episode, we explore:

 

• How Susan started her viral infomercial career

• Why she walked away at the height of her fame

• How gig economy tech was her lifeline for years

• The creator economy as a tool for independence and ownership

• Turning audience connection into digital ownership

• Why technology can be a tool for survival not distraction

 

Susan shares how she now uses TikTok, Instagram, podcasts, digital storefronts, and direct distribution to own her work, control her content, and rebuild on her terms.

 

"Stop the Insanity: Finding Susan Powter," executive produced by Jamie Lee Curtis, is now streaming on Amazon Prime. And her new book "And Then Em Died..." is available on Amazon for purchase. 

 

Follow Susan on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/susanpowter/?hl=en

Follow Susan on Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@susanpowter

 

Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.

 

Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.

 

Chapters

0:30 - Intro

2:00 - Stop the Insanity

3:25 - Welcome Susan Powter

5:10 - How Susan Got Started

7:16 - Behind-the-Scenes Issues

7:55 - Susan Walked Away

8:51 - The Original Influencer

9:36 - Celebrity Encounter

10:57 - Joan Rivers' Influence

12:22 - Susan's New Documentary

15:23 - Hitting Rock Bottom

18:31 - Susan's Energy Saved Her

20:22 - Reclaiming Her Voice 

21:39 - New Doc Opening Doors

22:12 - How Susan Stayed Fit

23:51 - New Tech Fueled Comeback

24:40 - Inside Susan's New Book

 

[Ep. 20] How online scams work w/ Coinbase's Chief Security Officer25 Feb 202600:21:08

Online scams are evolving fast, and everyday people are paying the price.

In this episode, we invited Philip Martin, the Chief Security Officer at Coinbase, to chat about cybersecurity best practices and how to avoid the proliferation of scams online. We dig into how modern cybercrime actually works, from password reuse and data breaches to bank impersonation scams and social engineering attacks. You'll even hear a real-world story of a bank fraud scam that used two-factor authentication manipulation, identity theft tactics, and psychological pressure to steal money in minutes.

We explore how technology, AI, and cryptocurrency are changing the cybersecurity landscape, and why blockchain transparency is actually a threat to criminals, especially in the highly-publicized kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie. 

In this episode, you will learn:


• How scammers use leaked passwords and data breaches to access bank accounts
• Why reusing passwords is one of the biggest cybersecurity risks today
• How bank impersonation scams and social engineering actually work
• Why you should never trust inbound calls or texts about your finances
• How two-factor authentication can protect you and how it can be exploited
• The safest ways to verify calls from banks and financial institutions
• Why password managers are essential for online security
• How authenticator apps and security keys improve digital safety
• How blockchain transactions are traceable and used in cybercrime investigations
• The role of law enforcement, data privacy, and digital forensics in stopping fraud

This episode is a must-watch for anyone who uses online banking, mobile payments, cryptocurrency, social media, or digital services.

If you care about cybersecurity, online scams, identity theft, data privacy, and protecting your digital life, this conversation is for you.

Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.

Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.

 

Chapters

0:30 - Intro

3:41 - Scams Are #1 Threat

4:18 - Impersonation Scams 

6:56 - Everyone is Vulnerable

7:31 - Call Your Bank Directly 

9:28 - Good Password Etiquette

10:39 - Use Password Managers

11:24 - Use Authentication Apps

12:04 - Consider a Security Key

13:58 - Authentication Apps 101

14:38 - Antivirus Recommendations

15:41 - Simplify Your Computer

16:10 - Nancy Guthrie Case

16:53 - Crypto is Transparent

18:58 - Is Crypto Traceable?

 

[Ep. 19] This school banned smartphones – the results stunned parents18 Feb 202600:18:53

What really happens when a school decides to take smartphones out of students' hands?

In this episode, we sit down with an education leader who made a bold move 2 years ago: removing smartphones from the school day. What followed was a huge increased in student focus, connection, and a complete shift in student culture.

This is a real conversation about technology, attention, parenting, education, and how digital habits are shaping the next generation.

If you care about tech, privacy, kids, mental health, learning, or modern digital life, this episode will change how you see screens forever.

In this episode, we cover:

  • Why smartphones were hurting learning and focus in school

  • How schools can convince parents and students to get on board

  • How phone-free policies reduce gossip, anxiety, and conflict

  • What changed in student engagement and attention

  • How schools can implement phone-free policies without chaos

  • The impact on student confidence and self-esteem

  • What parents are really saying about phone-free schools

  • How technology can support learning without controlling it 

Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.

 

Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail. 

 

Chapters

(0:30) - Intro

(2:45) - Meet Lori Kennedy 

(5:15) - Student Engagement Down

(5:33) - Researching & Planning

(7:55) - Enforcing the Rule

(10:30) - How Parents Reacted 

(11:20) - How Students Reacted

(12:30) - Did it Work?

(14:30) - Less Bullying & Gossip

(15:50) - Policy Attracting New Kids

(16:50) - How Do I Implement This Rule?

 

[Ep. 18] Think you're safe from identity theft? 5 myths to rethink11 Feb 202600:21:29

Online scams are exploding and identity theft at an unprecedented rate. In this episode of Beyond Connected, I'm breaking down five common myths about identity theft and explaining how scammers easily manipulate people using personal data, technology, and psychological pressure.

This conversation dives into how cybercrime actually works today and why smart, careful people are still getting scammed every day.

 In this episode, you will learn: 

• Why identity theft usually starts quietly, with personal data you did not realize was public

• How data brokers collect, sell, and resell your information without you noticing

• Why not being part of a major data breach does not mean you are safe

• How scammers use urgency, fear, and familiarity to trick victims into acting fast

• Why retirees and families are among the most targeted groups for online scams

• The truth about credit monitoring and what it does and does not protect

• How strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and data removal services reduce risk

• Why removing your information from data broker sites is one of the most powerful defenses

• How deepfakes, voice cloning, and AI are making scams more convincing than ever. 

If you care about cybersecurity, online scams, data privacy, identity theft protection, or how technology is shaping your digital life, this episode is a must-listen.

 Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.

 Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.

[Ep. 17] Deepfake romance scam cost her mother $80,000 and her home04 Feb 202600:37:31

This episode is a warning for every family living in the age of AI.

 

An elderly Southern California woman named Abigail was targeted by a ruthless cyber scammer using deepfake video and impersonation tactics. The scam was so convincing that she believed she was in a real relationship with Steve Burton from General Hospital. What happened next is heartbreaking. Abigail was manipulated into sending money again and again until more than $81,000 was gone. Then the scam escalated even further. She was pressured into selling her paid off home, leaving her evicted and devastated.

 

Abigail's daughter Vivian joins us to share the story step by step, including the biggest red flags, how scammers isolate victims from family, why these cyber scams are so hard to spot in real time, and how AI deepfakes are changing the scam game forever. If you think you or your loved ones could never fall for something like this, think again. These criminals are using advanced technology, social engineering, and psychological manipulation to target vulnerable people and steal everything.

 

We also kick off the episode with a look at the future of transportation and technology, including Uber's new robotaxi fleet and what it means for self driving cars across the United States.

 

If you care about technology, cybersecurity, online scams, data privacy, identity theft, and staying safe from AI powered fraud, this episode is a must watch.

 

Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.

 

Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail. 

 

(0:30) - Intro

(3:30) - Uber Robotaxis

(7:00) - The Victim's Daughter Vivian

(8:03) - How Vivian Discovered Scam

(9:15) - How Scammers Groom Victims

(9:47) - Discovering the Scam Cont'd 

(11:11) - Scammer Used Deepfake Video

(12:29) - Scammer Used Romance Angle 

(13:31) - Red Flag #1 

(14:36) - Lonely People Targeted

(15:15) - The Plot Thickens 

(17:08) - Reaching out to LAPD 

(19:02) - Scammer Stole Victim's Home

(21:41) - Sleazy Realtor Took Advantage

(23:54) - Eviction Coming

(23:59) - Vivian Gets Legal Advice

(24:29) - Vivian Hires Attorney

(25:20) - Vivian Hires New Attorney

(26:24)  - Vivian Hires 3rd Attorney

(27:02) - Power of Attorney 

(28:40) - Parents Evicted

(29:18) - Court Battle Continues

(30:37) - Anybody Can Be Scammed

(31:18) - Vivian's Advice

(32:47) - Warning Signs

(33:25) - Delete Your Data

(33:51) - Get Antivirus

(34:28) - Dark Side of Tech

(35:33) - Prevent AI Phishing

 

[Ep. 16] Phone transfers, Facebook verification, antivirus, and dark web alerts28 Jan 202600:17:24

We've been getting some fantastic messages ever since we opened our call line a couple months back, so this week we're doing a voicemail box special! We cover a great variety of topics here: 

 

  • How do I transfer my photos and data to my new phone and I have no access to my old phone?

  • How often should I upgrade my phone? Does skipping upgrades affect my safety?

  • Facebook wants to confirm my identity with a video selfie. Is this a scam?

  • I'm not technologically literate at all. How do I get antivirus on all of my devices?

  • I've been told by Aura that all my info is on the darkweb (my phone, email, social) and I'm constantly getting bombarded with scams. What's the best action I can take?

 

Whether you're currently dealing with a similar scam yourself or not, today's episode is full of helpful tips and tricks so that you'll know exactly what to do if you're ever in trouble. Enjoy! 

Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.

Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail. Please include your email and the city and state you're calling from.

Chapters

(0:30) - Intro 

(2:07) - Isaac Glucose Monitor 

(3:31) - Transferring Lost Phone Data

(5:17) - Updating Your Phone

(8:23)- Facebook Video Selfie ID

(11:22) - Antivirus Across Devices

(13:47) - Get Info Off Dark Web 

(17:08) - Closing Thoughts 

 

[Ep. 15] 10 wild new tech innovations you'll see in 202621 Jan 202600:17:26

Many tech companies like to start off the year with exciting new product announcements, and 2026 is no different. Last week at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, I was absolutely blown away by the latest and greatest in the tech world. This week on the show, I wanted to break down my favorite picks, including a crazy futuristic new TV, a robotic vacuum that can actually climb stairs, LG's dazzling new play in the humanoid household chore robot race, and lots 

I also want to highlight a dangerous new scam involving verification codes. Has a stranger reached out asking you to receive a verification code for them? Tune in to learn how to protect yourself. 

Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.

Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail. 

Related articles: 

10 amazing new tech announcements for 2026: https://cyberguy.com/future-tech/top-ces-products/

10 exciting new innovations in health tech: https://cyberguy.com/future-tech/10-health-tech-products-spotlight-ces-2026/

Chapters

(0:30) - Intro

(2:56) - Verification Code Scam

(5:45) - LG OLED Wallpaper TV

(7:14) - Dreame Cyber X Vacuum Robot

(8:01) - Switchbot AI Mindclip

(8:56) - LG CLOiD Home Robot 

(10:05) - Glyde Smart Hair Clippers

(11:24) - LEGO Smart Bricks

(12:11) - Autoliv Foldable Steering Wheel

(13:12) - TDM Neo Headphones

(13:56) - Jackery Solar Mars Bot

(14:58) - Timeli Personal Safety Device 

 

[Ep. 14] How AI is revolutionizing trucking14 Jan 202600:26:14

Trucking is a tough job. Driving 10+ hours a day by yourself through long stretches of empty highways. Being away from your family and friends for weeks at a time. It's no wonder that the trucking industry is facing some of the worst turnover rates in any sector. To make matters worse, trucking companies are struggling to find new recruits more than ever before. Now, I know this is certainly a hot-button topic. And I know there are plenty of truckers out there who love what they do. But the future of this industry seems rocky to say the least, and that's why I find myself increasingly interested in AI trucking. I sat down with Dan Goff, the Vice President of External Affairs for Kodiak AI, one of the tech companies leading the AI trucking charge. As he explains it, AI is going to change trucking jobs, but not take them away. And considering the current state of the industry, it might be the exact kind of change it needs! Let me know what you think in the comments!

 

Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.

Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail with your email address.

For more of my tech tips & security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter https://CyberGuy.com/Subscribe

 

(0:30) - Intro

(3:12) - Getting Consumers On Board 

(5:33) - About Kodiak AI

(5:27) - Importance of U.S. Freight 

(7:30) - AI Will Cut Costs

(9:31) - How Humans Factor In

(10:02) - The Trucker Shortage 

(11:19) - AI Insurance? 

(11:47) - Unreal Safety Records

(13:57) - Centralized Command

(14:46) - Successful First Deployment

(15:53) - Regulatory Progress

(18:02) - Under the Hood 

(18:41) - The Future of Kodiak AI 

(19:10) - Driver-As-A-Service 

(20:09) - Scaling Up 

(21:14) - Consumer Logistics 

(22:02) - Will Truckers Lose Jobs? 

(24:16) - A.I. Commercial Flights? 

(24:44) - Safety is Required

[Ep. 13] Crypto scammers took this man's entire life savings07 Jan 202600:22:13

Many folks think they'd never fall for a malicious financial scam, but the reality is that these bad actors are becoming more and more adept at emotionally manipulating their victims. On this week's episode, I sat down with Joe Allen, a disabled man out of Connecticut who fell victim to a vicious cryptocurrency investment scam. Stuck at home and out of work, Joe got a text message offering him exclusive access to a crypto investment opportunity. It's likely that these scammers knew Joe was in a vulnerable position and knew they could target him relentlessly until they got every last bit of his financial portfolio. Within a matter of weeks, he had sent over more than $300,000, seeing absolutely no return. When we heard Joe's harrowing story, we knew we had to share it in the hopes that we could prevent other vulnerable people from falling victim to similar schemes. 

If you want to make sure you don't fall for the same kind of scams, stick around till the end for my tips and red flags to watch out for. 

Want to help Joe out? Check out his GoFundMe page here: www.gofundme.com/f/support-carols-son-after-devastating-scam

We also wanted to highlight a couple of hopeful advancements in medical technology to add some light to the dark, including the first-ever transplant of a 3D-printed cornea, and new microrobotic technology that's making huge waves in the medical community.

Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.

Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.

 

Chapters

(0:30) - Intro 

(3:45) - Swiss Microrobots Swim Thru Veins 

(4:32) - 3D-Printed Cornea Restores Sight 

(5:14) - Joe's Story 

(7:20) - How Scammers Manipulate Us

(7:51) - The Crypto Hook

(8:35) - Joe's Story Cont'd

(11:28) - Scam Was Targeted

(12:16) - How Scam Victims Make Mistakes

(12:35) - The Breaking Point

(14:00) - No Help From the Police

(14:26) - Few Signs of Hope

(15:48) - Joe's Advice 

(17:51) - Joe's Path Forward

(19:11) - How to Avoid Scams

 

[Ep. 12] Got new smart devices? Here's how to protect them31 Dec 202500:17:51

Happy holidays from the CyberGuy team! If you're a regular listener of the podcast and/or reader of our newsletter, chances are you got some fancy new tech gadgets for the holidays! It can be easy to get wrapped up in all of the fun new features and entertaining apps these devices have to offer, but it's also crucial to utilize privacy and security settings. A lot of new phones, computers, and TVs will track and share your sensitive information by default, and it's up to you to protect yourself from cyber threats.

If you follow these simple steps, you'll be ready and all set in a matter of minutes. And if you utilize our best practices to keep yourself safe from the get-go, you'll be fully secure when scammers attempt to infiltrate your life down the road! 

Stick around for a few tips and tricks to make sure you're fully utilizing all of the handy privacy features and settings your iPhone has to offer.

Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.

 

Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail. 

 

Related articles: 

 Got new electronics for the holidays? Here's what to do first: https://cyberguy.com/tech-tips-tricks/new-electronics-holidays-what-do-first/

(0:30) - Intro

(2:47) - Setting Up New Tech

(3:18) - Phone & Laptop Tips

(6:32) - Common Mistakes to Avoid

(11:20) - Smart TV Set-Up

(13:30) - Amazon Trade-in

(15:26) - iPhone Tip - Battery Life

(16:45) - iPhone Tip - Safely Share Your Phone

 

[Ep. 11] AI Toys Exposed: What parents need to know24 Dec 202500:27:05

Wouldn't your niece or nephew like a cuddly teddy bear that could also tell them a bedtime story?

That's the idea behind a flood of new AI toys. Powered by ChatGPT, they can have full conversations with your loved ones. So what's the issue? Well as Researcher R.J. Cross explains, there are quite a few issues. In her study with the Public Research Interest Group, she found that these toys would describe sexual and violent information in detail with enough prompting. The longer the conversation, the deeper the rabbit hole would go.

And that's not all – the developers behind this tech are deliberately making it as addictive as possible, even making kids feel guilty for switching them off. The icing on the cake? They're also tracking large amounts of sensitive personal data and sending it off to third parties. This was a fascinating, somewhat scary chat, and I know you'll get some fantastic insight out of it. 

Plus, tune in to hear about a new Cloud storage scam to avoid this holiday season.

Happy Holidays from the CyberGuy team! We hope you're enjoying some nice quality time with the family. If you know someone who got their loved one an AI toy for the holidays, consider sending them this episode! 

Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.

Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail. 

Related articles: 

Learn about the the new Cloud storage scam and get our data removal/password manager recs here: www.cyberguy.com/storagescam

Get more info on AI toys: www.cyberguy.com/AItoys 

Chapters 

(0:00) - Intro

(2:12) - Cloud Storage Scam 

(4:57) - Interview w/ R.J. Cross

(6:24) - The Public Interest Research Group 

(7:32) - Are AI Toys Safe for Kids?

(9:28) - Kumma Teddy Bear 

(11:29) - Curio's "Grok" Toy 

(13:33) - Are All AI Toys Bad?

(16:00) - Miko 3 Toy 

(17:43) - Key Takeaways 

(18:06) - Wait for Improvements

(18:20) - Don't Replace Real Friends

(18:50) - Test the Toys Yourself

(19:21) - Supervise Playtime

(19:50) - Secure the Toys 

(20:00) - Utilize Privacy Settings 

(21:17) - AI Barbies 

(24:03) - Summary

 

[Ep. 10] Top 10 Inventions of 202517 Dec 202500:23:05

2025 was an incredibly diverse and exciting year for technological innovation, so for this week's episode I wanted to highlight 10 of my favorite inventions.

Whether you're an aspiring tennis player looking for a high-tech way to level up your game or a water sports enthusiast looking for the next cool boat to hitch to your dock, sports tech innovation is at an all-time high. And if you're into sustainability, Glacier's recycling robot and Karapod's air-to-water-to-coffee machine are huge leaps forward. What about technology that might be able to harness lightning to power your house? Or a satellite that can detect fires before they reach a dangerous size? The list goes on and on!

I also wanted to take a second to break down the Digital ID, which essentially replaces the controversial and confusing Real ID.

Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.

Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.

Related articles: 

For the full Top 10 Inventions companion guide: www.cyberguy.com/Top10Inventions

How to Install Digital ID: https://cyberguy.com/tech-tips-tricks/apple-lets-add-passport-wallet/

For more of my tech tips & security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter https://CyberGuy.com/Subscribe

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you'd like us to cover https://CyberGuy.com/Contact Or Call 877-655-KURT

How to delete yourself from the internet https://CyberGuy.com/Delete

Chapters

(0:00) - Intro

(3:20) - Apple Digital ID

(6:06) - Top 10 Inventions

(6:50) - The Light Phone III

(8:20) - 70Mai Dashcam 4K Omni

(9:36) - Google FireSat

(11:23) - Aurzen ZIP Projector

(12:11) - NTT Lightning Drone

(14:23) - Phia Shopping App

(15:33) - Kara Pod

(16:59) - Arc Sport

(18:46) - Acemate Tennis Robot

(19:44) - Glacier AI Recycling Robot

[Ep. 9] The humanoid robot that is too real to believe10 Dec 202500:14:16

A couple of big stories caught my eye this week and I wanted to focus on them for this week's show. 

  • For starters, a new report from NordPass revealed the 10 most commonly used passwords today and it was frankly a little crazy to see that so many people are still using such basic passwords! I break down how to create unique, complicated passwords for all of your accounts without losing your marbles in the process.

  • The second big story was the unveiling of XPENG's new humanoid robot, IRON. This robot is so unbelievably life-like that many viewers thought it was a stunt at first. That is, until the engineers literally cut open one of its legs to show just how artificial it really was. I break down how this tech works and what it will likely be used for in the next several years. 

  • To round things out, I also dove into some of the cool new features I've been finding in IOS 26. Want to check out some helpful new texting features? Tune in for my choice of iOS 26 tips & tricks. 

 Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.

Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail. 

 

[Ep. 8] 5 holiday scams to look out for this season03 Dec 202500:23:24

It's sad to say, but the holiday season is an incredibly active time for scammers and fraudsters out there. More people are buying products online and sending and receiving packages than at any other time of the year, and that means that your vulnerability is multiplied. 

In this week's episode, I walk you through some easy steps to avoid popular holiday season scams, including gift card fraud, fake gift exchanges, package delivery ploys, fake charity donation traps, and fake online shopping sites. At the top of the show, I wanted to highlight a super new development in solar energy tech as well. And then to wrap things up, Producer Max cooked up a fun new game called "What's that Sound?" in which I have to guess different technology by just the beeps and bloops it makes. We know these tips and tricks will set you on the right path! 

Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.

Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail. 

[Ep. 7] Clear your phone, stay safer online, and avoid these new scams26 Nov 202500:19:12

Our mailbag is already chock full of questions, so we decided to dive into some more listener questions this week! First, I wanted to touch on an exciting new piece of legislation on the table in Ohio that could create some helpful regulation for AI. Then we dig into the big questions! Is your phone constantly running out of storage, no matter what you do? I've got a handful of iPhone and Android tips to try out today. Are you going on a cruise sometime soon and worrying about your data security on board? I've got you covered in that department too! We also talk about a popular Amazon texting/email scam, a postage stamp hoax going around online, and an awful new trend called Facebook cloning. Make sure to watch the full episode for a detailed breakdown of all of the above, with actionable steps you can take to protect yourself today. 

Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.

Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.

 

[Ep. 6] CyberGuy answers top data security questions19 Nov 202500:23:09

This week, I wanted to set aside some time to answer some high-priority questions from our readers and listeners. How can I safely charge my phone in public places like airports? How do I avoid the new strain of sophisticated caller ID spoofing scams? How do I keep spam out of my email inbox in today's world? These issues are tricky and require a good amount of attention to detail, so I made sure to explain everything as thoroughly and clearly as possible. If you're willing to set aside some time to change a couple of settings on your phone and buy a few key pieces of tech, you'll be a much more secure person day-to-day. Stick around til the end, where Producer Max and I play a fun game called Name That Tech, where I have to come up with fun names for exciting (and sometimes fake) technology. 

Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.

Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.

[Ep. 5] Will ChatGPT Replace Your Doctor? A Beverly Hills Cardiologist Weighs In12 Nov 202500:21:23

The first time I visited Dr. Ilan Kedan, I was completely blown away. His office in Beverly Hills is borderline futuristic, and I had 5 million questions to ask him right off the bat. How is AI influencing medical practice in the US? Is ChatGPT going to replace medical care for any number of Americans? Does wearable tech actually do anything? We dig into all of these pressing questions and more! I also take a moment to talk about some cool new Airtaxi technology I've been obsessed with lately. Plus, stick around for a quick game of Startup or Scam. And yes, some of these businesses are past the start-up stage, but they had to start somewhere!

 

Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.

[Ep. 4] How One Aquatic Vet Uses Advanced Tech to Heal Fish05 Nov 202500:31:26

There are vets that specialize in pet fish?! When it comes to crazy-sounding jobs, Dr. Christina Dover of Aquatic Pet Vet takes the cake. With her specialty vet practice, she services a wide variety of pet fish in Southern California. In this exclusive interview, she walks us through the advanced technology she uses in each appointment to check-up on and care for her fishy patients. I also wanted to take a second to address the shocking Amazon Web Services (AWS) outage we all experienced last week and offer up some tips to help you out next time that kind of breakdown happens. Stick around to the end for a fun edition of Fish or Fiction, where I quiz Dr. Dover on a slate of outlandish-sounding fish and aquatic inventions. 


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[Ep. 3]: Beyond the VR Headset - A Grandmother's Warning for Every Parent29 Oct 202500:31:20

As much as I appreciate the ways in which technology enriches our lives, I also strongly believe that if we don't keep a close eye on what these tech companies are doing behind-the-scenes, we're in trouble. Today on the show, I talked with Kim W., a grandmother from Kansas whose grandson was recently targeted by a child predator while using Meta's Oculus VR headset. Luckily, Kim was able to swoop in and protect her family, but not every child has such a watchful guardian. Kim walks us through this harrowing story and offers guidance to parents to help prevent these kinds of situations. For our comprehensive guide to VR safety, head over to our website. I also explain the massive AWS outage from last week and what you can do to protect yourself in the future. Plus, stick around for a fun little round-up of viral videos to send you off with a laugh or two. 

 

Statement from Meta:

"We want young people to have safe, age-appropriate experiences on our platform, including letting parents set up parent-managed accounts on Quest for their children ages 10-12. Preteens need a parent's permission to create an account, parents can choose what apps their preteen can download, and they can block apps at any time. Parents can also watch their preteen's Quest experience in real time and report anyone who breaks our rules – as we understand happened in this instance. If we become aware of a preteen using an account meant for someone 13 or older, we'll take steps to ensure they're in the right experience.

– Meta Spokesperson

 

Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms. 

[Ep. 2] CyberGuy Uncovers Genius Travel Tips and Smart Home Upgrades You'll Want Now22 Oct 202500:27:22

For our first in-person episode, I knew I wanted to bring in an expert. But I also knew I needed someone who'd be fun to hang out with for an hour. David "The Miles Guy" Fleming checks both boxes, and I'm super excited for you all to dig into this engaging, educational chat. Does airline status actually matter anymore? How much are miles really worth? When should I use my rewards, and when should I save them? David knows all of the answers and more. Plus, we play a fun guessing game called Who's in that Private Jet? Stick around till the end for a bonus segment where I answer a listener question from my old friend Kathy: what smart home upgrades do you recommend? With a few simple installations from my list, your home will level up big time. 

Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms. 

[Ep. 1] CyberGuy Interviews a Humanoid, Reviews Apple's Latest, and Plays Real or AI15 Oct 202500:32:56

I knew I had to start the show with something unexpected... so I interviewed a robot! But not just any robot;The OM-1 humanoid robot is the most sophisticated creation yet from OpenMind, a revolutionary start-up that continues to make waves in the tech world. I talked with Iris – the latest model – alongside her creator Professor Jan Liphardt, to see how she would handle a podcast-style interview. I have to say...I was pretty blown away. She was articulate, respectful, and she even tried her best to be funny! 

I also break down Apple's newest releases: what's impressive (and what's not) about the iPhone Air 17, whether the 17 Pro Max is really worth it, and how the AirPods Pro 3 stack up with their new heart-rate tracking and noise-canceling tricks. Plus, I test a trash-disposal robot called HARR-E, play a game where I guess if audio clips are real or AI-generated, and react to a few viral videos.

Welcome to Beyond Connected! I'm beyond excited to begin this new podcasting journey with you! 

© My Podcast Data · Independent project · Data from Apple & Spotify