Technology
Why parents may want to delay smartphones for kids
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Parents everywhere wrestle with one big question. What is the right age to let a child have a smartphone?
Tweens ask for one long before many adults feel ready. At the same time, researchers keep sounding alarms about how early access may shape health and behavior. Now, a large new study gives parents even more to think about.
Published in Pediatrics, the research tracked more than 10,500 children in the national Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study. It found strong links between early smartphone ownership and higher odds of depression, obesity and insufficient sleep by age 12. The earlier kids got a phone, the greater their risk.
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What the study reveals about early smartphone ownership
The study compared 12-year-olds who owned smartphones with those who did not. Kids with phones were more likely to show signs of depression, carry extra weight and sleep less than their peers without devices. Researchers noted that these patterns held even after accounting for income, neighborhood, parental monitoring and other factors.
TEENS TURNING TO AI FOR LOVE AND COMFORT
Parents can lower these risks by delaying devices, setting limits and keeping phones out of bedrooms at night. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
They also looked at children who still did not own a phone at age 12. One year later, those who had finally received one showed more mental health concerns and worse sleep than those who still did not have a device. These shifts happened quickly, which raised concerns about how powerful the change can be.
Lead author Dr Ran Barzilay explained that parents should treat the decision like a real health milestone. A device changes how kids sleep, move and socialize. That combination may create more strain for a 12-year-old than for a 16-year-old who has more maturity and self-regulation.
Why age matters more than many parents expect
The research shows an association, not a direct cause. Yet the patterns match earlier findings. Kids with smartphones often stay up later, scroll more and move less. That mix can disrupt physical health and emotional well-being. Adolescence is a sensitive stage when small shifts in sleep or mood can have long-lasting effects.
Experts also pointed out how nearly every teen now has smartphone access. That makes the decision even harder for families who want to delay. Still, researchers say the data is strong enough to guide parents toward waiting when possible. Parents do not need perfect evidence to choose a slower timeline.
Pediatric mental health experts warn that a smartphone is not a simple tool. It opens the entire internet with no natural limits. Families need clear rules and protections and those steps require real work from adults. Many parents feel pressure to hand over a device early, yet the expert urged families to trust their instincts when deciding the timing.
The sleep connection families cannot ignore
Most experts agree that phones disrupt sleep. A large share of preteens keep devices in their bedrooms, which leads to late-night scrolling and overnight notifications. Even the glow of the screen can make it harder to fall asleep.
Researchers who study adolescent sleep and screen habits have found that many 11 to 12-year-olds keep devices within reach at night, and a notable share report being awakened by notifications. Experts in this field urge parents to move phones out of bedrooms overnight because better sleep can reduce some of the risks tied to early smartphone access.
EVEN THE FUTURE KING DISCOVERS SMARTPHONES ARE A ROYAL PAIN FOR KIDS AND PARENTS
Researchers found that kids who got phones sooner showed more mental health strain within a year. (Matt Cardy/Getty Images)
The challenge is consistency. Many parents struggle to set rules when screens support school work, friendships and safety. Yet researchers stress that even one boundary, like no phones in bedrooms, can protect sleep and reduce stress.
How parents can use this information right now
No one wants to shame parents who already gave their kids a phone. Many families made the decision for safety or communication needs. The study does not claim that every early smartphone user will face health issues. It simply highlights patterns worth considering before making the call. Parents can use these insights to create a healthier plan.
1) Delay smartphones until children show readiness
Readiness is more than age. Look for consistent responsibility with chores, schoolwork and device-free rules on other screens.
2) Set clear family rules for screen time
Kids follow rules when they understand why they exist. Set limits that work for your household and adjust them as schedules and needs change.
3) Keep devices out of bedrooms at night
Nighttime use and notifications interrupt sleep. A “charging station” in the kitchen or living room solves this fast.
4) Talk often about online safety and emotional well-being
Short regular check-ins work better than one long conversation. Keep the tone open and supportive.
5) Use parental controls and app limits
Cell phones give parents straightforward tools to manage what kids can see and when they can use their devices.
TEENS FACE NEW PG-13 LIMITS ON INSTAGRAM
How to set healthy limits on an iPhone
Set downtime
- Open Settings
- Tap Screen Time
- Select Downtime
- Toggle on Scheduled
- Scroll down and set a schedule where only essential apps are allowed
Use app limits
- Go to Settings
- Tap Screen Time
- Select App Limits
- Tap Add limit to set daily time limits for social apps, videos and games
- Click Next and set the Time and Customize Days
- Click the Check Mark in the upper right-hand corner
Restrict adult content
- Open Settings
- Tap Screen Time
- Select Content & Privacy Restrictions
- Turn on Content & Privacy Restrictions
- Tap App Store, Media, Web & Games
- Select Web Content
- Select Limit Adult Websites
How to set healthy limits on Android
Set digital wellbeing limits
Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer
- Open Settings
- Tap Digital Wellbeing & parental controls
- Select Dashboard
- Choose an app
- Tap App Timer and set a daily limit
Enable Google Family Link
Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer
- Open the Family Link app on the parent device
- Add your child’s Google account
- Set app approvals
- Restrict content through Filters on Google Play
- Enable location and activity reports
Turn on SafeSearch (blocks explicit results in Google Search)
Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer
- Open the Google app or go to google.com
- Tap your profile photo
- Select Settings
- Tap SafeSearch
- Turn on Filter explicit results
Strengthen browser protection in Chrome
Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer
- Open Chrome
- Tap the three dots
- Select Settings
- Tap Privacy and security
- Select Safe Browsing
- Choose Enhanced protection
- Click the Left arrow to exit.
Experts who study youth mental health stress that the point is not fear. It is preparation. Thoughtful rules, controlled access and earlier boundaries can reduce risks associated with early smartphone ownership. Small changes make a big difference when kids are still developing the habits that shape their health.
Pro tip: Add device protection
Kids download apps, click links and explore online spaces that can expose them to harmful content or scams. Strong antivirus software adds an extra layer of protection by blocking risky sites and unsafe downloads. It helps keep their device safer while you work on healthy screen habits.
The best way to safeguard your kids’ devices from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing their private information, is to have strong antivirus software installed on all their devices. This protection can also alert them to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping their personal information and digital assets safe.
Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your kids’ Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.
Take my quiz: How safe is your online security?
Think your devices and data are truly protected? Take this quick quiz to see where your digital habits stand. From passwords to Wi-Fi settings, you’ll get a personalized breakdown of what you’re doing right and what needs improvement. Take my Quiz here: Cyberguy.com.
Kurt’s key takeaways
Smartphones bring connection, opportunity and convenience. They also introduce stress distraction and real health challenges for younger users. Research keeps showing that age matters. A 12-year-old may not be built for the same digital world that a 16-year-old can handle with more confidence and self-control. Families do not need guilt. They need facts and support so they can choose what fits their values. As more data arrives, the message grows clearer. Slowing down may give kids the best chance to thrive online and off.
At what age do you think is right for a first smartphone? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.
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Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
Technology
Alexa+ lets you order food like a real conversation
Food delivery drones launch in NJ
FOX Business correspondent Madison Alworth reports on drone food delivery services launching in New Jersey on ‘America Reports.’
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You’re hungry, and your stomach’s already growling. Normally, you’d grab your phone, open your favorite delivery app and start scrolling through endless restaurant lists. Tap a few menus, pick a few items and before you know it, you’ve built your order piece by piece.
But with Amazon Alexa+, you can skip all that tapping and scrolling. Just tell Alexa what you’re in the mood for, change your mind halfway or add something extra as you go, like you’re chatting with someone taking your order.
That’s the new idea behind Alexa+. Amazon has rolled out a voice-powered food ordering feature that lets you get delivery from Uber Eats and Grubhub without ever opening an app. Just say what you want, and Alexa handles the rest.
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ALEXA.COM BRINGS ALEXA+ TO YOUR BROWSER
Amazon Alexa+ now lets users order food from Uber Eats and Grubhub by voice, turning delivery into a back-and-forth conversation instead of a series of taps. (Michael Nagle/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
What you need to use Alexa+
Now, before you start ordering with your voice, there are a few quick setup steps.
- You need an Alexa+ compatible device, like an Echo Show
- You must link your Uber Eats or Grubhub account in the Alexa app
- Your past orders can sync automatically for quick reordering
Once that’s done, it becomes a hands-free experience.
How to set up Alexa+ for food ordering (step by step)
We set this up using the Amazon Alexa app on a phone, and these are the exact steps we followed. The menus may look slightly different depending on your device.
- Open the Alexa app on your phone
- Tap “More” (it usually has three horizontal lines)
- Tap “Alexa+ Store”
- Use the search bar and type in Uber or Grubhub.
- Tap the service you want
- When it appears, tap to open it.
- Tap “Connect” or “Enable” (You may see a page from “pitangui.amazon.com” during setup. That’s part of Amazon’s system and is safe if you open it from the Alexa app. )
- Next, sign in to your account on your phone
- Tap “Grant access”
- Tap “Continue”
- Tap “Close” to return to the app
After we linked our Grubhub account, we got a confirmation email saying everything was successfully connected. Once that’s all done, it becomes a hands-free experience.
To actually place an order, go to your Echo device and say, “Alexa, I want to order food,” then follow the prompts on the screen. Note: the feature is still rolling out and works best on newer Echo Show devices.
You can also manage or remove the connection anytime in the Alexa app by going to: Alexa App > Menu > Settings > Manage Alexa+ Services Unlink & Revoke Permissions
How Alexa+ actually builds your order
After you’re set up, this is where things start to change. For years, voice assistants followed a simple pattern. You ask something. It answers. That’s it.
With Amazon Alexa+, that model shifts. Instead of giving one command at a time, you can carry on a back-and-forth conversation.
You might start with:
- “Show me Mexican food”
- “Actually, let’s do pizza”
- “Add a large pepperoni with extra cheese”
- “Wait, make that two”
The system updates your order in real time. If you change your mind, it adjusts instantly on screen. Even better, it only jumps in when you need help. That means fewer interruptions and a smoother flow.
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With Alexa+, Amazon is pushing voice ordering beyond basic commands, letting users browse restaurants, customize meals and check delivery status through natural conversation. (Michael Nagle/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
How Alexa+ lets you customize your order
This is where things start to feel different from anything we’ve seen before.
You can explore like you’re talking to a person
You don’t need exact menu names. Say something like “meat lovers pizza,” and Alexa+ finds the closest match. Want dessert? Just ask. Curious what’s popular? Ask that too.
You can change your mind mid-order
Most apps make you backtrack. Alexa+ lets you pivot on the fly. Add items. Remove them. Adjust quantities. Switch restaurants entirely. Everything updates live on your screen.
You see the full breakdown before you pay
Before checkout, you’ll get a clear summary:
- Item names
- Quantities
- Individual prices
- Total cost
That transparency matters, especially when small add-ons can quickly add up.
You can track your delivery with your voice
Once your order is placed, you can simply ask:
“Alexa, where’s my food?”
No need to dig through notifications or open another app.
Why Amazon is pushing Alexa+ now
This isn’t just about food delivery. Amazon is testing a bigger idea. It wants Alexa+ to adapt based on what you’re trying to do. Ordering food needs flexibility. Checking the weather doesn’t. So instead of one rigid interaction style, Alexa+ shifts its behavior depending on the task. Food ordering is just the beginning. Amazon is already hinting at future uses like grocery shopping and travel planning.
GRUBHUB LAUNCHES FIRST-EVER COMMERCIAL DRONE FOOD DELIVERY SERVICE IN NEW JERSEY
Amazon’s new Alexa+ food-ordering feature connects with Uber Eats and Grubhub, allowing users to build, change and track delivery orders without opening an app.
What this means to you
This feature sounds convenient, and in many ways it is. Still, there are a few things worth thinking about before you start ordering dinner out loud. First, it makes ordering easier. That’s great for speed, but it can also make spending feel effortless. When ordering becomes a conversation, it’s easy to keep adding items without paying attention to the total. Second, your data matters. Linking accounts means Amazon can connect your voice activity with your food habits. That includes what you order, when you order and how often. Third, it changes how you interact with technology. Instead of tapping and scrolling, you’re relying on AI to interpret what you mean. That saves time, but it also means trusting the system to get things right. Finally, it may reshape your habits. If this becomes second nature, opening apps could start to feel old-fashioned before long.
Take my quiz: How safe is your online security?
Think your devices and data are truly protected? Take this quick quiz to see where your digital habits stand. From passwords to Wi-Fi settings, you’ll get a personalized breakdown of what you’re doing right and what needs improvement. Take my Quiz here: Cyberguy.com.
Kurt’s key takeaways
Ordering food has always been simple. Now it’s becoming conversational. That shift might sound small, but it signals something bigger. Technology is moving away from commands and toward natural interaction. The goal is to make devices feel less like tools and more like assistants. The real question is how far that goes. If your device can handle dinner tonight, what else will it manage tomorrow?
And here’s something to think about: At what point does convenience start making decisions for you instead of helping you make them? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.
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Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
Technology
Tim Cook will still be Apple’s Trump whisperer
Though Tim Cook is shedding his CEO title for the role of Apple’s executive chairman, it appears he’ll keep one of his most important duties: that of the company’s Trump whisperer.
“As executive chairman, Cook will assist with certain aspects of the company, including engaging with policymakers around the world,” Apple writes in a press release. Translation: he’s sticking around to deal with thorny political relationships — in particular the one with President Donald Trump.
Throughout his tenure, Cook has navigated Apple through tricky political terrain. He’s had to balance the company’s massive business interest in China with US policymakers’ concerns, and he’s worked to appease Trump for favorable regulatory decisions, without alienating too many Apple employees and customers in the process.
Cook has navigated Apple through tricky political terrain
The task of wooing Trump has repeatedly placed Cook in embarrassing situations: Cook showed the president around a factory in Texas in 2019, where Trump wrongly boasted that because of his policies, Apple was building a new manufacturing plant in the US. Last year, he presented Trump with a symbolic gift of “Made in the USA” glass from Apple supplier Corning set in 24-karat gold.
Recently, Cook took criticism from Trump critics for attending a movie night at the White House, for a screening of the documentary Melania, the same day that Alex Pretti was killed by federal agents on the streets of Minneapolis during a protest against Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Cook later vaguely referred to the “events in Minneapolis,” and referenced a “good conversation with the president.”
As Apple’s senior vice president of hardware engineering John Ternus takes over as CEO, the company will need to overcome significant policy challenges, including global efforts to regulate AI, and a push for app stores to verify user ages. Lucky for Ternus, Cook will still be there to take on that job.
Technology
6 crypto scam scripts criminals use to steal your money
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Just about every day, we receive emails from readers who have encountered new scams. Many involve cryptocurrency. The pattern keeps repeating. Someone receives a message that feels urgent, emotional or exciting. The person on the other end sounds confident and persuasive. Before long, the victim is being asked to send money through cryptocurrency. Once the money is sent, it often disappears forever.
Cryptocurrency appeals to scammers for a simple reason. Transactions move quickly, often cross international borders and usually cannot be reversed once completed. That combination makes crypto payments especially attractive to criminals.
Kate recently wrote to us with a great question.
“Could you do an article that illustrates the scripts used by scammers to lure people to send money using cryptocurrency. Those scripts must be very convincing to get so many reasonably intelligent people to send money. Maybe five or six examples of the scripts, so people, especially seniors, will know what to watch out for.”
Kate is absolutely right. These scripts are convincing because scammers practice them constantly. They use psychology, urgency and emotion to push people toward quick decisions.
FAKE GOOGLE GEMINI AI PUSHES ‘GOOGLE COIN’ CRYPTO SCAM
Crypto scammers use polished scripts built on urgency, trust and emotion to pressure victims into sending irreversible payments. (gpointstudio/Getty Images)
Let’s break down some of the most common crypto scam scripts, so you know what they sound like before they reach your inbox or phone.
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The investment opportunity script
This script often begins with a friendly introduction through social media, email or even a text message.
Example script:
“Hi, I work with a private investment group that trades cryptocurrency. We’ve helped many people earn steady returns. If you invest $500 today, you could earn $5,000 within weeks. I can show you proof of other investors’ success.”
The scammer may send fake screenshots of profits. Some will even allow a small withdrawal early on to build trust. Eventually, they push the victim to send larger deposits. Once the larger transfer is sent, the account suddenly stops responding.
The romance crypto script
This scam often starts with a simple message on a dating app, Facebook or Instagram. The first contact is friendly and low-pressure.
Example initial script:
“Hi, insert name here, I hope you don’t mind me saying hello. Your profile caught my attention, and you seem like a very kind person. How has your day been?”
After a few days of conversation, the scammer begins sharing details about their life. They often claim to work overseas as an engineer, doctor or business owner. Eventually, they mention cryptocurrency trading as something they do on the side.
Later message in the script:
“I have been doing some short-term crypto trading after work. It has helped me save a lot faster. If you are interested, I can show you the platform I use. It is very easy to start with a small amount.”
From there, the scammer guides the victim to a fake trading site or asks them to transfer cryptocurrency to a wallet they control. At first, the account may show fake profits. The victim believes the investment is working and sends more money. Eventually, the victim cannot withdraw any money.
MALICIOUS MAC EXTENSIONS STEAL CRYPTO WALLETS AND PASSWORDS
From romance schemes to fake government threats, scammers often follow repeatable crypto scripts designed to sound convincing. Knowing the pattern can help you stop the fraud early. (Nhac NGUYEN / AFP via Getty Images)
The government impersonation script
Scammers often pretend to represent government agencies or law enforcement.
Example script:
“This is an urgent notice regarding your tax account. Your Social Security number has been linked to suspicious activity. To prevent legal action, you must verify your identity and pay the outstanding balance today using cryptocurrency.”
Government agencies do not demand payment through cryptocurrency. The goal is to scare you into acting quickly without checking the facts.
The tech support emergency script
This scam often begins with a pop-up warning or an unexpected phone call.
Example script:
“Your computer has been compromised by hackers. Your bank information may be at risk. To secure your system, we need you to transfer funds temporarily into a protected cryptocurrency wallet.“
The scammer claims the funds will be returned once the system is secure. In reality, the transfer moves the money directly to the criminal.
The crypto giveaway script
This scam frequently appears on social media or video platforms.
Example script:
“We are celebrating a new crypto launch. Send 0.1 Bitcoin to this wallet, and we will immediately send back double the amount.”
The message may appear to come from a well-known company or public figure. The wallet address belongs to the scammer. Anyone who sends funds receives nothing in return.
The fake recovery service script
This scam targets people who have already lost money.
Example script:
“We specialize in recovering stolen cryptocurrency. Our investigators located the wallet that received your funds. To begin the recovery process, we require a small crypto payment to unlock the legal tracing tools.”
The victim believes they are hiring professionals to recover their money. Instead, they are being scammed again.
Why these scripts work so well
These scams succeed because they exploit human behavior. First, they create urgency. Victims feel pressured to act quickly.
Second, they create trust. The scammer may sound friendly or sympathetic.
Third, they promise rewards. Investment scams offer profits that feel life-changing.
Finally, cryptocurrency adds confusion. Many people are still learning how it works. Criminals take advantage of that uncertainty.
Understanding these scripts is the first step to protecting yourself. Once you recognize the patterns scammers use, it becomes much easier to stop the conversation before money is involved.
How to protect yourself from crypto scams
Crypto scammers rely on urgency, trust and confusion to pressure victims into sending money. These practical steps can help you recognize warning signs and avoid costly mistakes.
1 CLICK COST A FATHER $4 MILLION IN BITCOIN TO VISHING SCAMMERS
Criminals favor cryptocurrency because transactions move fast, cross borders easily and usually cannot be reversed. That makes crypto a powerful tool for scammers. (Mario Tama/Getty Images)
1) Slow down when money is involved
Scammers depend on urgency to push victims into fast decisions. If someone pressures you to send money immediately, treat it as a warning sign. Pause the conversation and verify the situation independently. Contact the company, agency or person through a known phone number or official website. Taking even a few minutes to step back can stop a scam before money leaves your account.
2) Never send cryptocurrency to someone you do not know
Cryptocurrency transactions work very differently from credit cards or bank transfers. Once funds are sent, they usually cannot be reversed. Scammers prefer crypto because it moves quickly and often crosses international borders. If someone asks for payment through Bitcoin, Ethereum or another digital currency, assume the request is suspicious until proven otherwise.
3) Verify investment opportunities independently
Many crypto scams promise fast profits or guaranteed returns. Legitimate investments never guarantee profits. Before investing, search the company name, website and contact information online. Look for warnings from regulators or consumer protection agencies. If you cannot find reliable information about the company, that is a major red flag.
4) Use strong antivirus software on your devices
Scammers frequently use phishing links, fake websites and malicious downloads to trick victims. Strong antivirus software can help detect these threats before they cause damage. Strong antivirus software can warn you about suspicious websites, block malicious downloads and help stop phishing attempts that try to steal your financial information. Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.
5) Reduce the personal information scammers can find online
Scammers often research their targets before sending messages. They may gather details from public records, social media or data broker websites. Limiting the amount of personal information available online can make it harder for criminals to craft convincing messages. Removing your data from people search sites with a data removal service can reduce the chances of becoming a target. Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com.
6) Be cautious with online relationships
Romance scams often begin with friendly messages on dating apps or social media. Over time, the scammer builds trust and eventually introduces a crypto investment opportunity. If someone you have never met begins discussing cryptocurrency investments or asks you to move money, take a step back. Real relationships do not require financial transfers to strangers.
7) Never trust screenshots or profit dashboards
Crypto scammers often show screenshots of trading accounts that appear to generate large profits. These images are easy to fake or are displayed on fraudulent websites controlled by the scammer. Even if a platform shows profits, it does not mean the money exists. If you cannot withdraw funds easily through a verified exchange, the investment may be fake.
8) Watch for requests to move conversations off the platform
Many scams begin on social media, dating apps or messaging platforms. After the first contact, scammers often ask victims to continue the conversation on WhatsApp, Telegram or another private messaging app. Moving the conversation helps them avoid detection by the original platform. If someone quickly asks you to switch apps, treat it as a warning sign.
9) Talk to someone you trust before sending money
Scammers often isolate their victims and discourage them from discussing the situation with friends or family. Before sending cryptocurrency or making a large investment, pause and talk to someone you trust. A second opinion can often spot warning signs that are easy to miss when emotions are involved.
What to do if you already sent cryptocurrency to a scammer
If you believe you sent cryptocurrency to a scammer, act quickly. Contact the exchange or platform you used to send the funds and report the transaction immediately. Some exchanges may be able to flag the receiving wallet and help investigators track suspicious activity.
You should also report the scam to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov and notify your local law enforcement agency. If the scam began on a social media site, dating app or messaging platform, report the account there as well so it can be investigated and removed.
While recovering funds can be difficult, reporting the incident can help authorities identify larger fraud networks and potentially prevent others from becoming victims.
Kurt’s key takeaways
Cryptocurrency scams continue to grow because the scripts are polished and carefully tested. The criminals behind them understand human psychology. They know when to apply pressure, when to build trust and when to promise rewards. Recognizing these patterns is one of the most powerful ways to stop them. When you know the script, the scam becomes much easier to spot.
Have you ever received a message that tried to convince you to send cryptocurrency, and did the script almost sound believable? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.
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- For simple, real-world ways to spot scams early and stay protected, visit CyberGuy.com – trusted by millions who watch CyberGuy on TV daily.
- Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join.
Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
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