Technology
800,000 VW electric vehicle owners' data exposed by software bug
German automaker Volkswagen isn’t having a great time. The company is planning to cut capacity at five factories, reducing production by about 700,000 vehicles, while also laying off more than 35,000 workers in its home country. Now, reports suggest the company had a massive data leak at its subsidiary software company Cariad, which exposed personal data, including geolocation data, of around 800,000 EV owners online and accessible for months. Such information could be valuable to criminals for extortion purposes. What’s interesting is that a hacker association informed the company about this data leak after receiving a tip from an anonymous hacker.
I’M GIVING AWAY THE LATEST & GREATEST AIRPODS PRO 2
Enter the giveaway by signing up for my free newsletter.
Image of VW signage (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
What you need to know about the data leak
As reported by Germany’s Der Spiegel magazine, Volkswagen is facing a major data security issue after movement data from 800,000 electric cars and the personal contact information of their owners were left exposed on the internet. This data revealed sensitive details, such as the precise locations where cars were parked, including private locations like people’s homes, government buildings and even questionable spots like brothels.
The exposed data includes detailed movement patterns of these vehicles, allowing for the creation of comprehensive profiles of individuals’ daily activities. This could be particularly concerning for public figures or anyone with privacy concerns.
Several car brands under the Volkswagen group, including VW, Audi, Seat and Skoda, were affected by the breach, which exposed sensitive data across multiple countries. The information was stored on Amazon cloud servers without adequate protection, leaving it vulnerable for months before the issue was discovered.
For around 466,000 of the 800,000 affected vehicles, the location data was detailed enough to map out drivers’ daily routines. Spiegel reported that the list of affected users included German politicians, business leaders, the entire EV fleet used by Hamburg police and even suspected intelligence agents.
The breach came to light when an anonymous hacker tipped off the Chaos Computer Club. While Volkswagen left the data easily accessible during this time, there is no indication so far that anyone misused or accessed it maliciously.
We reached out to Volkswagen for comment but did not hear back by our deadline.
VW emblem on vehicle (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
THE AI-POWERED GRANDMA TAKING ON SCAMMERS
How can this data leak affect you?
The Volkswagen data leak is more than just a tech issue. It is a real concern for anyone who values their privacy. With precise location data out in the open, someone could figure out where you live, work or spend your free time. This information could be misused in many ways, from targeted scams where hackers pretend to be Volkswagen or its partners to trick you into giving up sensitive information, to more personal threats like stalking or harassment.
Imagine someone knowing your daily routine or identifying places you visit that you would prefer to keep private. Visits to clinics, legal offices or other sensitive locations could expose you to embarrassment or blackmail.
The breach also raises concerns for business leaders, government officials and military personnel as their movements linked to high-security or restricted areas could be exposed, increasing the risk of corporate espionage or national security threats. Moreover, when paired with other vulnerabilities, such as app credentials, hackers could potentially exploit the data to unlock or even control vehicles remotely.
VW electric SUV (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
THE ONE SIMPLE TRICK TO HELP KEEP OUT CYBER CREEPS ON IPHONE
6 ways you can stay safe after this leak
In light of the recent Volkswagen data breach, it is crucial to take proactive measures to safeguard your personal data. Here are 6 ways you can stay safe after this leak:
1) Check your app settings: Review the permissions and data-sharing settings in your car’s companion app. Disable features that track or share your location if they are not essential for your use. Regularly update the app to ensure you have the latest security patches.
2) Be alert to scams: Keep an eye out for suspicious emails, messages or calls pretending to be from Volkswagen or related services. Avoid clicking on links or sharing sensitive information without verifying the sender.
3) Consider data opt-out options: Many vehicles with online features allow you to limit or disable certain data-sharing functionalities. Check your car’s settings to reduce the amount of personal data being collected.
4) Strengthen your online accounts: If you use the same email or password across multiple accounts, update them immediately. Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible to add an extra layer of security to your accounts.
5) Beware of snail mail scams: While most people focus on digital threats, physical mail scams can also follow a data breach like this. If your contact information was exposed, you might receive fraudulent letters pretending to be from Volkswagen or related services. These could ask for payments, personal details or even encourage you to visit fake websites.
6) Install strong antivirus software: Ensure that you have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices, especially those connected to your vehicle or its apps. This can help protect you from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.
30% OF AMERICANS OVER 65 WANT TO BE REMOVED FROM THE WEB. HERE’S WHY
Kurt’s key takeaway
The Volkswagen data leak is a glaring example of how companies need to take user data security more seriously. Exposing personal details and precise locations is not just a technical mistake. It is a massive breach of trust. While VW has patched the issue, the damage shows how important it is for businesses to be more responsible with the data they collect. People deserve to know their information is safe and used only when necessary. If companies cannot protect their customers’ privacy, they risk losing their confidence altogether. It is time for the industry to step up and do better.
Do you think stricter regulations should be in place for companies that handle user data? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.
For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.
Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.
Follow Kurt on his social channels: Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:
New from Kurt:
Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
Technology
Roland’s Go:Mixer Studio turns your phone into a mobile music studio
Roland now offers a more capable audio mixer for phones and tablets with the launch of the Go:Mixer Studio. The Go:Mixer audio interface lineup has always been a bit limited, better suited for scrappy live streams and capturing quick demos on their phones than professional recording. The Go:Mixer Studio is an attempt to actually reach that lofty goal, with more inputs and outputs, built-in effects, and up to 24-bit / 192kHz audio. There’s even an iOS app that allows you to capture video and multitrack audio simultaneously.
Streaming and social video are still the major use cases here. The Go:Mixer Studio can even be mounted on a mic stand so you can keep it in easy reach during a live session. The screen and knobs allow you to control all the parameters on the Go:Mixer Studio directly, but there’s also a desktop app for Windows and MacOS that gives you complete control of the mixer remotely.
There’s plenty of connectivity, including two XLR inputs on the back with phantom power, a 1/4-inch instrument input for directly connecting a guitar or bass, stereo 1/4-inch line-in jacks, and an aux input. There’s also 1/8-inch TRS MIDI in and out, two headphone jacks, and stereo line outs for connecting to studio monitors. Each audio input has a dedicated EQ and compressor on the channel. The XLR and instrument ins also have reverb available.
The Go:Mixer Studio is available now for $299.
Technology
Alexa.com brings Alexa+ to your browser
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
For years, Alexa mostly stayed in one place. It lived on kitchen counters, nightstands or living room shelves. That setup worked for music and timers, but it also limited when and how people could actually use the assistant. Now that is changing.
Amazon has rolled out Alexa.com, which brings Alexa+ directly to your web browser for Early Access users. Instead of relying on a speaker or phone, you can now open a laptop and start using Alexa like any other web-based AI tool.
This shift is less about new tricks and more about access. Alexa can now follow you throughout your day instead of waiting for you at home.
Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide – free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter.
CHATGPT HEALTH PROMISES PRIVACY FOR HEALTH CONVERSATIONS
Amazon’s Alexa is no longer tied to a smart speaker, with Alexa.com bringing the assistant and Alexa+ directly to the web browser for Early Access users. (Photo Illustration by Thomas Fuller/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
What Alexa.com actually is
Alexa.com is the browser-based version of Alexa+. You can type questions, explore topics, plan trips, organize tasks, or create content without touching a smart speaker. The biggest difference is continuity. Alexa keeps context across devices, so conversations carry over whether you are on your laptop, phone, Echo, or Fire TV. You do not have to repeat yourself every time you switch screens. That makes Alexa feel less like a command tool and more like an assistant that remembers what you are working on.
Who can use Alexa.com right now
Alexa.com is not open to everyone yet. To use it, you need:
- Alexa+ Early Access
- An Amazon account linked to a compatible Echo, Fire TV, or Fire tablet
- A US-based Amazon account
- Device language set to English, United States
Child profiles are not supported on the browser version. Older Echo devices will continue using the original Alexa.
What Alexa.com cannot do yet
Because Alexa.com is still in Early Access, it has limits that matter for everyday users. Right now:
- You can only type to Alexa in your browser
- Voice interaction is not supported on the web
- Music playback is not available
- Smart home controls are limited compared to Echo devices
Amazon says features will roll out gradually. Alexa.com is meant to complement your devices, not fully replace them yet.
Meal planning without juggling tabs
One area where Alexa.com feels genuinely useful is meal planning. You can ask Alexa for a full week of meals and set preferences like high protein, low sugar, or kid-friendly lunches. Alexa generates a plan and turns it into a shopping list. From there, items can be added directly to Amazon Fresh or Whole Foods. Instead of bouncing between recipes, notes and carts, everything happens in one place.
Organizing everyday life in one place
Alexa.com also works as a lightweight life organizer. You can upload documents, emails and images so Alexa can pull out key details. That includes appointments, reminders and schedules you would otherwise forget. Instead of searching your inbox, you can ask Alexa when the dog last went to the vet or what time practice starts tonight. The information stays available across devices.
Smart home access, with limits
Alexa.com keeps your smart home controls visible next to your chat window. While full smart home control is still limited in the browser, Alexa.com lets you check status, review activity and continue actions on your Echo or Fire TV devices. It is most useful as a bridge. You can start something in the browser and finish it at home without starting over.
Recipes that follow you into the kitchen
Alexa.com also simplifies cooking. If you find a recipe online, you can paste the link into Alexa and ask it to adjust for dietary needs. Alexa can save it, convert it into ingredients and add everything to your shopping list. When it is time to cook, Alexa can pull the recipe up on your Echo Show, guide you step by step and manage timers so your hands stay free.
5 TECH TERMS THAT SHAPE YOUR ONLINE PRIVACY
Alexa.com lets users type questions, plan trips, organize tasks and create content without relying on an Echo or smartphone. (Michael Nagle/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Finding something to watch faster
Decision fatigue hits hard at night. On Alexa.com, you can explore movie themes, get recommendations and save picks for later. When you sit down, Alexa remembers your choices and sends them to your Fire TV. That cuts down on scrolling and family debates.
What about privacy
Using Alexa on the web raises natural privacy questions. Amazon says Alexa+ includes built-in protections and user controls. Still, it is worth taking a minute to review your settings, especially if you plan to upload documents or personal information. A few smart habits can help:
- Check your Alexa privacy settings and review stored activity
- Avoid uploading sensitive documents like IDs or medical records
- Use strong antivirus software to protect your device. The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.
As with any AI assistant, convenience comes with trade-offs. Staying aware helps you stay in control.
How much Alexa+ will cost
Alexa+ is free during Early Access. When Early Access ends, you will not be automatically charged. After that:
- Alexa+ stays free with a Prime membership
- Non-Prime users can subscribe for $19.99 per month
This makes Alexa.com more appealing for Prime members and a tougher sell for everyone else.
What this means to you
For most people, Alexa.com is about convenience. If you already use Alexa at home, the web version makes it easier to use during the day. You can plan, organize or look things up from your computer and then pick up later on your phone or Echo. It also puts Alexa in the same category as other browser-based AI tools, but with deeper ties to shopping, smart home features and entertainment. Whether you stick with it will likely come down to how often you want Alexa to help you during your day.
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.
YOU CAN FINALLY CHANGE YOUR GMAIL ADDRESS WITHOUT LOSING DATA
Amazon says Alexa.com allows conversations to carry over across devices, giving users continuity between laptops, phones and smart home screens. (Photographer: Michael Nagle/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Kurt’s key takeaways
Alexa.com does not reinvent Alexa. It simply makes it easier to use where people already spend time. By bringing Alexa+ to the browser, Amazon is betting that continuity matters more than novelty. For some users, that will be enough to make Alexa feel relevant again.
If Alexa followed you from your laptop to your living room, would you actually rely on it more, or would it still feel optional? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP
Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide – free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter.
Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
Technology
A second US Sphere could come to Maryland
The second US sphere would be built in an area known as National Harbor in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Located along the Potomac River, National Harbor currently features a convention center, multiple hotels, restaurants, and shops. While Abu Dhabi plans to build a sphere as large as the one in Las Vegas, the National Harbor venue would be one of the first mini-Sphere venues announced last March.
Its capacity would be limited to 6,000 seats instead of over 17,000. But the smaller Sphere would still be hard to miss with an exterior LED exosphere for showcasing the “artistic and branded content” that helped make the original sphere a unique part of the Las Vegas skyline.
The inside of the mini-Sphere will feature a high-resolution 16,000 by 16,000 pixel wrap-around screen, the company’s immersive sound technology, haptic seating, and “4D environmental effects.” For the AI-enhanced version of The Wizard of Oz currently playing in Las Vegas, audiences experience effects like wind, fog, smells, and apples falling from the ceiling.
The mini-Sphere will potentially also be cheaper to build than the $2.3 billion original, but its construction is contingent on the “receipt of certain governmental incentives and approvals from Prince George’s County and the State of Maryland.” Sphere Entertainment says the project “would utilize a combination of public and private funding, including approximately $200 million in state, local, and private incentives,” but would potentially generate millions of dollars in revenue for the country and state while supporting over 4,700 jobs once it opens.
-
Montana1 week agoService door of Crans-Montana bar where 40 died in fire was locked from inside, owner says
-
Virginia1 week agoVirginia Tech gains commitment from ACC transfer QB
-
Montana1 week ago‘It was apocalyptic’, woman tells Crans-Montana memorial service, as bar owner detained
-
Minnesota1 week agoICE arrests in Minnesota surge include numerous convicted child rapists, killers
-
Detroit, MI5 days agoSchool Closings: List of closures across metro Detroit
-
Lifestyle5 days agoJulio Iglesias accused of sexual assault as Spanish prosecutors study the allegations
-
Oklahoma1 week agoMissing 12-year-old Oklahoma boy found safe
-
Oregon1 week agoDan Lanning Gives Oregon Ducks Fans Reason to Believe