Technology

Fake Google Meet update lets hackers control your Windows PCs

Published

15 hours ago

March 31, 2026

Fake Google Meet update lets hackers control your Windows PCs

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You might think the biggest danger online is downloading a virus or giving away your password. But a new phishing trick shows how attackers can take control of your computer without either of those things happening.

Security researchers recently uncovered a fake Google Meet update page that looks convincing enough to fool many people. All it takes is one click on a button that says “Update now.” Instead of installing an update, you can be tricked into enrolling your Windows computer in a remote management system controlled by attackers.

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TECH GIANTS UNITE TO FIGHT ONLINE SCAMS

A fake Google Meet update page can trick Windows users into handing attackers remote control of their computers through a built-in device enrollment feature. (pocketlight/Getty Images)

All you need to know about the fake Google Meet update

Researchers at Malwarebytes, a cybersecurity company that develops software to detect and remove malware, discovered a phishing website designed to look like an official update notice for Google Meet. The page tells visitors they need to install the latest version of Meet to continue using the service. The design uses familiar colors and branding that many of us associate with Google products.

When someone clicks the “Update now” button, it does not download an update at all. Instead, it triggers a built-in Windows feature using a special device enrollment link that opens a real system window called “Set up a work or school account.” This window normally appears when a company’s IT department sets up a laptop for an employee.

In this scam, the setup window is already filled with information that connects the computer to a remote management server controlled by the attacker. The system points to an online management service hosted on Esper, which is a legitimate platform used by businesses to manage company devices.

If the victim clicks through the setup process, his computer becomes enrolled in what is called a mobile device management system. That gives whoever controls the server the same level of control a company’s IT department would have over a work laptop.

Security researchers say the attackers are not expecting everyone to complete the process. Even if only a small number of people click through the prompts, that can still give them access to enough computers to make the campaign worthwhile.

How it works and why it matters to you

This attack works by abusing a legitimate Windows feature rather than installing malware. Windows includes something called device enrollment, which lets companies connect employee computers to a management system. Once a device is enrolled, administrators can remotely control many aspects of that machine.

In a normal workplace setting, this helps IT teams install company software, enforce security settings and manage devices. Attackers realized they could trick people into joining their own management system instead. When you click the fake update button, Windows launches a built-in enrollment process. Because it is a real system feature and not a fake pop-up, it looks legitimate and can bypass many security warnings.

If you complete the steps, the attacker effectively becomes the administrator of your computer. That could allow the hacker to silently install software, change system settings, view files stored on your computer, lock your screen or even wipe the device entirely. In some cases, the hacker could also install additional malware later. What makes this attack especially tricky is that traditional antivirus tools may not detect anything wrong because the operating system itself is performing the actions.

We reached out to Google for comment, and a spokesperson provided the following statement: “These ‘update now’ prompts are not legitimate Google communications. This is a phishing campaign that attempts to trick users into a Windows device enrollment process. Google Meet updates are handled automatically through your browser or the official app. Google will never prompt you to visit a third-party site to enroll a personal device to receive an update.”

FAKE GOOGLE SECURITY PAGE CAN TURN YOUR BROWSER INTO A SPYING TOOL

Instead of downloading malware, victims who click through a fake update page may unknowingly give attackers administrator-level access to their Windows devices. (Beata Zawrzel/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

7 ways to protect yourself from the fake Google Meet update

If you ever see a message saying you must update a service before continuing, slow down and verify it first. A few simple habits can prevent attacks like this from working.

1) Be skeptical of unexpected update prompts

If a website suddenly tells you that a service like Google Meet needs an update before you can continue, pause for a moment. Major platforms rarely force updates through random web pages. Google Meet updates happen automatically through your browser or official app and never require visiting a third-party site. Always check the URL bar. Legitimate Google Meet sessions only run on meet.google.com. A real update will never try to enroll your entire computer or trigger system-level setup screens. If it does, it is a scam. Instead, open the service directly from its official website or app and check for updates there.

2) Check if your device was enrolled without your knowledge

On a Windows computer, open Settings, then go to Accounts and look for “Access work or school.” If you see an unfamiliar account or organization listed, especially one you do not recognize, disconnect it immediately. This section shows whether your device has been enrolled in a remote management system.

3) Reduce your exposure with a data removal service

Cybercriminals often rely on personal information found online to make phishing attacks more convincing. Data removal services help remove your information from data broker sites, reducing the chances that scammers can target you with personalized attacks. While it will not stop this specific trick, it can make you a harder target overall. 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.

4) Use strong antivirus software

Google says Gmail’s AI protections block more than 99.9% of spam, phishing and malware, but scams can still reach you through search results, ads or links shared outside your inbox. That’s why using strong antivirus software with real-time protection can help detect suspicious behavior that may emerge after an attacker gains control of a device. Even though this attack uses legitimate Windows features, security tools can still identify unusual system changes or malicious software installed afterward. Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.

DARKSWORD LEAK PUTS MILLIONS OF IPHONE USERS AT RISK

Security researchers uncovered a phishing scam that uses a fake Google Meet update prompt to enroll personal computers into attacker-controlled remote management systems. (400tmax/Getty Images)

5) Keep Windows and your browser updated

Software updates often include security protections that help block new attack methods. Running the latest version of Windows and your web browser reduces the chances of attackers exploiting older system behaviors or vulnerabilities.

6) Use a password manager

A password manager only autofills your login details at the correct website address. If you land on a phishing page pretending to be a service like Google Meet, your password manager will not fill in your information. That warning alone can help you realize something is wrong before you click anything. It also encourages you to rely on saved logins instead of interacting with suspicious update prompts. Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2026 at Cyberguy.com.

7) Never complete system setup prompts you didn’t start

If a Windows system window suddenly appears asking you to set up a work or school account, stop immediately. Legitimate setup prompts typically appear when you are configuring a device or following instructions from your employer, not from clicking a random website. If you did not expect it, close the window.

Kurt’s key takeaway

Cybercrime is changing by the minute. Instead of writing obvious viruses, attackers are increasingly abusing legitimate features built into operating systems and cloud services. In this case, both Windows device enrollment and the management platform being used are real tools designed for businesses. The attackers simply redirected those tools toward people who never intended to hand over control of their computers. That should tell you how easily powerful enterprise features can be repurposed for attacks when there are few safeguards preventing misuse.

Should operating systems block device enrollment requests that come from random websites? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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

Related Topics:cybercrime Featured Google Hackers Tech windows os

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Technology

Amazon’s Big Spring Sale 2026: all of the latest deals

Published

3 hours ago

April 1, 2026

Press Room

Amazon’s Big Spring Sale 2026: all of the latest deals

If you’re looking for the best time to get a deal this spring, it might very well be during Amazon’s Big Spring Sale, which runs through 11:59PM PT tonight. We’re still highlighting the best that the sale has to offer, including the many so-called “doorbuster” deals that will appear throughout the remainder of the seasonal shopping event.

Despite the fact that the sale will end in a few short hours, you can find deals on all sorts of consumer tech, from personal audio and home theater upgrades to steep discounts on video games, mobile accessories, and various doo-dads for tinkerers. Given that the sale coincides with the arrival of spring, you can also find deals on plenty of outdoor-friendly gear, including portable Bluetooth speakers, open-style earbuds, and more.

Amazon’s annual spring sale doesn’t require a Prime membership to participate in, either. Most of the deals are available to everyone, with big-name retailers like Best Buy, Walmart, and Target matching Amazon’s pricing in many instances. There are sure to be some Prime-exclusive sales in the mix, so regardless of where you plan to shop, we’ve got you covered.

Technology

10 things to stop paying for to save money now

Published

3 hours ago

April 1, 2026

Press Room

10 things to stop paying for to save money now

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

Money can start to feel tight faster than you expect. It is not always one big expense. More often, it is a series of small charges that quietly add up over time.

When that happens, it is easy to think you need a major reset. You don’t. In many cases, the fastest way to create breathing room is to stop paying for things that are not adding real value to your day.

That is where this list comes in. These are 10 common expenses you can cut back on right now. Start with one or two, and you will likely notice the difference quickly.

VIRAL GROCERY SHOPPING METHOD PROMISES TO SLASH SPENDING: ‘WAY EASIER, WAY CHEAPER’

Cutting back on recurring costs like delivery apps, gym memberships and bottled water can create quick financial breathing room. (David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

1) Daily ‘treat’ habits that quietly add up

That quick coffee run or snack feels harmless. It takes a minute and gives you a boost. Over time, it adds up fast. A $6 drink every weekday can reach around $1,500 a year. You don’t have to cut it completely. Just change how often it happens.

Tech tip: Use your banking app’s spending insights to see how much you’re actually spending in this category. Most major banks now auto-categorize purchases.

Quick step: Open your banking or credit card app, then go to transactions or spending insights. Use the search bar and type “coffee” or filter by a category like “dining” or “food and drink.” Most apps will show how much you’ve spent over the last month.

Seeing the total makes it easier to cut back without guessing.

2) Convenience spending you barely notice

Convenience costs more than it seems. Delivery apps, one-click checkouts and saved payment methods make it almost too easy to spend. That is when purchases start happening without much thought.

Tech tip: Remove saved cards from your favorite shopping apps. Making yourself enter your payment details each time can help slow down impulse buys.

Quick step:

iPhone: Settings > Wallet & Apple Pay > select a card > Remove Card
Android: Open the Samsung Wallet app > tap All or Menu > Payment cards > select a card > tap More (three dots) > Remove card. (Settings and menu names may vary slightly depending on your software version.)
Google Pay (Android): Open Google Wallet app > tap your card > three dots (top right) > Remove payment method
Apps (Amazon, DoorDash, Uber, etc.): Open the app > go to Account or Profile > tap Payments, Wallet or Payment methods > select a card > tap Edit or Remove. (Menu names may vary slightly depending on the app version.)

A small pause at checkout can stop a purchase you did not really need.

3) Subscriptions you forgot you had

Streaming services, apps, cloud storage and free trials that turned into charges. Most people are paying for at least one thing they rarely use.

Tech tip: Your phone already tracks this.

Quick steps:

iPhone: Settings > your name > Subscriptions
Samsung Galaxy (Android): Open Google Play > Profile icon > Payments & subscriptions > Subscriptions (Menu names may vary slightly depending on your device and software version.)

You’ll see everything in one place and can cancel in just a few seconds.

4) Storage you never visit

Storage units feel temporary, but the monthly charge sticks around. If you have not used those items in a year, you likely do not need them.

Tech tip: Sell items quickly using apps like Facebook Marketplace or OfferUp instead of letting them sit.

Quick step: Take photos on your phone, list items in minutes and price to move.

Turning unused items into cash is better than paying to store them.

7 FOOLPROOF WAYS TO SAVE MONEY IN A TOUGH ECONOMY

Small daily purchases, unused subscriptions and convenience spending can quietly drain your budget faster than expected. (Douglas Rissing/Getty Images)

5) Gym memberships you are not using

Signing up feels productive. Showing up is what counts. If you are not going, it becomes a recurring charge with no benefit.

Tech tip: Replace it with free fitness apps or built-in phone features.

Apple Fitness: Basic tracking is free with iPhone
YouTube: Free workout videos are easy to find
iPhone: Open the Health app > tap Steps to track your daily movement
Samsung: Open the Samsung Health app> tap Steps (or install it if needed)

Quick step: Set a daily step goal in your Health or Samsung Health app and start there.

Consistency matters more than where you work out.

6) Bottled water and repeat small buys

This one slips under the radar. Buying a drink here, a snack there or a bottle of water on the go does not feel like much in the moment. But over time, it turns into a steady drain on your budget. If you have access to clean tap water, you are paying for something you already have. The real issue is not the item. It is the pattern. These are repeat purchases that happen automatically.

Tech tip: Use your phone to break the habit before you leave the house, not after you are already out.

Quick step:

iPhone: Open the Reminders app > tap New Reminder or the + sign > type “Bring water bottle” > tap the (i) icon > set it to alert you at a specific time or when leaving your home location > Click the blue check mark in the upper right of the screen.
Samsung: (Menu names may vary slightly depending on your device and software version.)Option 1: Open Reminder app (Samsung Reminders) > Create reminder > add “Bring water bottle” > set time or location.Option 2: Say, “Hey Google, remind me to bring my water bottle when I leave home.”

Catching the habit before you leave helps you avoid spending later.

7) Premium gas your car does not require

Many drivers pay extra for premium gas without needing it. If your car is designed for regular fuel, premium will not help performance.

Tech tip: Look up your car’s fuel requirement online in seconds.

Quick step: Search: “Does [your car model] require premium gas” or check your manual digitally.

Using the right fuel can save you money every time you fill up.

8) Upgrading your phone too often

New phones are appealing. The upgrades feel important. In reality, most changes are minor, and your current phone likely still does everything you need. The biggest issue most people run into is not performance. It is battery life. That is often fixable.

Tech tip: Check your battery health and storage before deciding to upgrade. Those two things usually explain why a phone feels “old.”

Quick steps:

iPhone: Settings > Battery > Battery Health & Charging (look at Maximum Capacity)
Samsung: (Menu names may vary slightly depending on your device and software version.)Settings > Battery > Battery usage > tap Diagnostics or Device care > check battery status

Battery health above 85% means you are in good shape. Keep your phone. Around 80% or lower means the battery is wearing out. Replace the battery instead of upgrading. Still running slow after updates and clearing storage? It may be time to move on.

HOUSING EXPERT WARNS PRE-PANDEMIC AFFORDABILITY LEVELS MAY NEVER RETURN IN AMERICA

Saving money often starts with fewer automatic charges, fewer impulse buys and better use of the tech you already have. (Juanmonino/Getty Images)

9) Lottery tickets and quick-win promises

It is easy to justify a few dollars here and there. But over time, it adds up, and the odds stay the same.

Tech tip: Set up an automatic transfer instead.

Quick step:

Go to your bank app
Set recurring transfer (even $5 a week) to savings

You turn a habit into something that actually builds money. Plus, small, steady savings will always beat relying on luck.

10) Buying out of habit, not need

Scrolling and buying can become automatic. Most purchases are not planned. They happen in the moment. That is how small, unplanned spending starts to add up.

Tech tip: Turn off push notifications from shopping apps. Fewer alerts mean fewer chances to buy on impulse.

Quick step:

iPhone: Settings > Notifications > select app > toggle off
Samsung: Settings > Notifications > App notifications > toggle off notifications for the app you wish to stop receiving notifications from (Menu names may vary slightly depending on your device and software version.)

Fewer alerts mean fewer chances to spend without thinking.

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

You don’t need to cut everything. Focus on the expenses that are not adding real value. Saving money does not always come from doing more. Often, it comes from doing less. Less automatic spending. Fewer impulse purchases. Fewer charges you forgot about. Technology can either make spending easier or help you stay in control. It depends on how you use it. Start small. Stay consistent. That is where the real change happens.

So here’s something worth thinking about: Which app, subscription, or habit is quietly costing you money every month without you realizing it? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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Technology

You can now use ChatGPT with Apple’s CarPlay

Published

15 hours ago

March 31, 2026

Press Room

You can now use ChatGPT with Apple’s CarPlay

ChatGPT is now accessible from your CarPlay dashboard if you have iOS 26.4 or newer and the latest version of the ChatGPT app, 9to5Mac reports. Apple’s recently-launched iOS 26.4 update added support for “voice-based conversational apps” in CarPlay, opening the door to let you use AI chatbots with voice features through Apple’s in-car platform.

When using ChatGPT through CarPlay, the app doesn’t show text conversations, according to 9to5Mac — instead, you can only have conversations with the app using your voice. (Apple’s developer guidelines ask that apps don’t show text or imagery as responses.) The CarPlay app isn’t completely devoid of text, though, as there’s onscreen buttons to mute and end the conversation.

You can also look at a list of recent conversations you’ve had with ChatGPT, according to MacRumors. But you can’t use a wake word to use ChatGPT through CarPlay — you’ll have to tap on the app to open it up.