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A woman’s Facebook nightmare after her entire phone’s camera roll becomes public

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A woman’s Facebook nightmare after her entire phone’s camera roll becomes public

Imagine logging into your Facebook account to see every single photo (yes, even those photos) posted on your profile for everyone to see. We received an email from Deborah, who had this exact nightmare happen to her:

“I recently discovered my Facebook account tricked me into having given them permission for my entire camera roll on my phone. Everything was available in my photos for anyone to view. I had taken pictures of my double mastectomy. When I clicked on photos on my FB page, I was startled to see EVERYTHING. Now I won’t put any photos on my phone [except] my profile picture.”

There are a variety of settings on Facebook that allow this situation to happen and how to prevent this from happening to you.

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A person on their Facebook account (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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How to prevent sharing all your photos on Facebook

1) Camera roll permissions on Facebook

Facebook will request permission to access your camera roll for photos and videos when you use the Facebook app on your mobile phone. This allows you to upload photos and videos from your mobile phone to your Facebook account. There are additional options once you decide you want to share your photos and video onto your Facebook account: You can give it permission to share none, some or all of your photos and video, so it is important to be intentional when selecting your preferred sharing option and reviewing it occasionally to verify that the permission setting still works for you.

HOW TO REMOVE YOUR PRIVATE DATA FROM THE INTERNET

2) Preventing unwanted access

If you want to prevent Facebook or any other app from accessing your entire camera roll, follow the steps below (before following these steps, make sure your apps are updated):

On your phone:

  • On your phone’s main screen, go to Settings
  • Scroll down and tap Privacy & Security (or a similar option depending on your device)
  • Tap Photos

Steps to prevent sharing all your photos on Facebook (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Tap Facebook
  • Select the amount of access you want to give your Facebook app (None, Limited Access, or Full Access)

Steps to prevent sharing all your photos on Facebook (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

On the Facebook app:

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  • Open the Facebook app
  • Tap the three horizontal lines or the menu icon (in the top-right or lower-right corner, depending on your device)
  • Tap on Settings & privacy

Steps to prevent sharing all your photos on Facebook (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Tap on Settings
  • In the drop-down menu, select Posts under Audience and visibility

Steps to prevent sharing all your photos on Facebook (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

  • Under Posts, you can select Who can see your future posts? by setting the desired level of exposure you want in the drop-down (e.g., Friends, Friends except…, Specific Friends, Only Me, Acquaintances or Close friends).

Steps to prevent sharing all your photos on Facebook (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

5 WAYS TO MAKE YOUR FACEBOOK ACCOUNT BULLETPROOF

Reviewing previously posted photos:

  • Open the Facebook app
  • Select the photo that you want to review
  • Tap the three dots (on the top-right, depending on your device)
  • Tap on Edit post privacy
  • Select the desired level of exposure you want (e.g., Friends, Friends except…, or Only Me, etc.)
  • Tap Done (on the top-right, depending on your device)

Steps to review previously posted photos (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Third-party apps:

  • Always review permissions for access to camera roll or photo albums when using other apps (not just Facebook)
  • Do not grant full access unless it is vital to the functionality of the app.

Even if you set your permission preferences, it is good practice to periodically check your Facebook privacy settings to ensure they align with your preferences, especially with any operating system or app updates.

HOW TO REMOVE FACEBOOK ACCESS TO YOUR PHOTOS

3) Profile picture exception

When in doubt, it is best to limit any potentially sensitive photo or video on your Facebook account, with the exception of your profile photo. This way, you don’t have to go back and do damage control on each single image. You can always upload individual photos while making sure the privacy setting of each photo measures up to your liking.

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FOOLPROOF STEPS TO HELP PROTECT YOUR FACEBOOK ACCOUNT FROM HACKERS

Kurt’s key takeaways

Whether it is the embarrassing number of selfies you’ve taken or personally sensitive photos you took and forgot about, having all your photos and videos blasted for all to view on Facebook is quite a nightmare. Whether it is Facebook or another app, it is always a good idea to limit their access to your camera roll and check the privacy settings within these apps. Remember, you’re not alone in navigating technology, and it’s commendable that you’re taking steps to protect your privacy.

Have you ever experienced a privacy breach on social media, and how did you handle it? 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.

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OpenAI keeps shuffling its executives in bid to win AI agent battle

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OpenAI keeps shuffling its executives in bid to win AI agent battle

OpenAI announced yet another reorganization Friday, consolidating certain areas and making company president Greg Brockman the official lead of all things product.

In a memo viewed by The Verge, Brockman wrote that since OpenAI’s product strategy for this year is to go all-in on AI agents, the company is combining its products to “invest in a single agentic platform and to merge ChatGPT and Codex into one unified agentic experience for all.”

To do this, the company is making a suite of org chart changes, although it’s still operating under some of the same ones from last month. That’s when AGI boss Fidji Simo went on medical leave and OpenAI announced that Brockman would be in charge of product strategy and CSO Jason Kwon, CFO Sarah Friar, and CRO Denise Dresser would take control of business operations.

It’s all part of OpenAI’s recent strategic shift to focus on key revenue drivers like coding and enterprise and stop pouring resources into “side quests” ahead of its potential IPO later this year and amid investor pressure to turn a profit.

In Simo’s continued absence, Brockman’s role leading product strategy is now official, as well as the company’s “scaling” arm. Under Brockman will be four different pillars. The first is core product and platform, led by Thibault Sottiaux, who has been OpenAI’s engineering lead for Codex, and the second is critical enterprise industries, led by ChatGPT head Nick Turley. Third is the consumer pillar, such as health, commerce, and personal finance, which will be led by Ashley Alexander, who has been its healthcare products VP. The fourth pillar — core infrastructure, ads, data science, and growth — will be led by Vijaye Raji, who has been OpenAI’s CTO of applications.

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Brockman wrote in the memo that OpenAI’s goal is now to “bring agents to ChatGPT scale, in order to give individuals and organizations significantly more value and utility from our products.”

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Is that traffic ticket text a scam or real?

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Is that traffic ticket text a scam or real?

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

You’re going about your day when your phone buzzes. A text hits your phone. It looks official. It sounds urgent. And suddenly, you are being told you owe money for a traffic violation. That is exactly what Todd from Texas experienced. He emailed us and said:

“I received this text message today. It was so baffling because I haven’t lived in California for nearly a decade. I didn’t click on anything or respond. How can I tell if this is for real or if this is a scam?”

If you’ve gotten a message like this, you are not alone. This type of scam is spreading fast, and it is designed to pressure you into acting before you think. Let’s break down what is really going on.

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  • Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join.

FAKE AGENT PHONE SCAMS ARE SPREADING FAST ACROSS THE US

This message may look official, but several red flags show it is likely a scam designed to pressure you into paying quickly. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What the traffic ticket scam text looks like

At first, the message seems convincing. It claims to be a “final reminder” from the California DMV, and it warns of penalties like license suspension and added fees. It even includes a link that appears somewhat official. However, once you slow down and take a closer look, the red flags quickly start to pile up.

The biggest red flags in this message

Here are the key warning signs to watch for in messages like this.

9 WAYS SCAMMERS CAN USE YOUR PHONE NUMBER TO TRY TO TRICK YOU

1) The phone number makes no sense

The message comes from a number with a +63 country code. That is the Philippines, not California. Government agencies in the U.S. do not send official legal notices from international numbers. That alone is a major warning sign.

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2) No name, just “Dear Driver”

Legitimate notices from a DMV or court almost always include your full name or at least some identifying information. “Dear Driver” is vague on purpose. It allows scammers to send the same message to thousands of people.

3) The link isn’t a real DMV website

The message includes this link:

ca.mnvtl.life/dmv

That isn’t a government domain. Official DMV websites in California use “.ca.gov” or similar trusted domains. Scammers often create lookalike links to trick you into clicking.

4) Urgency and threats

The message pushes you to act quickly with a deadline. It lists consequences like license suspension and extra charges. Scammers rely on fear. When you feel rushed, you are more likely to click without thinking.

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FBI WARNS OF DANGEROUS NEW ‘SMISHING’ SCAM TARGETING YOUR PHONE

5) Asking you to reply to proceed

The text says to reply with “Y” to get instructions. That is another trap. Responding confirms your number is active, which can lead to more scam messages.

6) Generic language and odd phrasing

Parts of the message feel slightly off. The tone is formal but not quite right. That subtle awkwardness is common in scam messages sent to large groups of people.

7) Overloaded threats designed to scare you

The message piles on consequences like license suspension, added fees, court action and even credit damage. In this case, it even mentions a license suspension and a $160 late payment charge. That combination is meant to overwhelm you and push you to act fast. Real agencies usually provide clear, specific notices, not a long list of escalating threats in a single text.

INSIDE A SCAMMER’S DAY AND HOW THEY TARGET YOU

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Scam texts like this often arrive out of nowhere and try to create urgency before you have time to question them. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What this means for you

Even if you have never driven in California, you could still receive this message. Scammers cast a wide net and hope someone takes the bait. If you click the link, you could be taken to a fake payment page. That page may ask for your credit card details, personal information or login credentials. In some cases, it can also install malware on your device or redirect you to credential-stealing pages. This isn’t about a ticket. It is about getting your data.  State DMVs typically do not send final legal notices or payment demands by text message.

Why these scams keep working

These messages work because they tap into something most people fear. Legal trouble, fines and losing driving privileges. They also look just real enough to pass a quick glance. That is all scammers need. As more services move online, these scams will continue to evolve.

Unlike typical DMV scams, this message impersonates a court and escalates the threats to make the situation feel more serious (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Ways to stay safe from traffic ticket text scams

Start with a simple rule. Never trust a payment request that shows up out of nowhere. Here are practical steps you can take:

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1) Do not click the link

If you are unsure, do not tap anything in the message. That includes links and reply options.

2) Use strong antivirus software

If you accidentally click a link, strong antivirus software can help detect malware and protect your data. Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com

3) Verify directly with the DMV

Go to your state’s official DMV website by typing it yourself into your browser. Do not use the link in the text.

4) Check the sender carefully

Look at the phone number. International numbers or random strings are a clear warning sign.

5) Ignore generic greetings

Real notices will usually include your name or case details. Vague language is a red flag.

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6) Consider a data removal service

Scammers often get your number from data broker sites. Removing your personal info from those databases with a data removal service can reduce these messages. 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

7) Block and report the number

On your phone, block the sender and report it as spam. This helps reduce future attempts.

8) Turn on spam filtering

Enable spam filtering on your phone or through your carrier to catch more of these messages before they reach you.

Kurt’s key takeaways

Todd did the right thing. He paused, questioned the message and did not click. That one decision likely saved him from handing over personal information. When it comes to messages like this, skepticism is your best defense. If something feels off, trust that instinct.

Should phone carriers and tech companies be doing more to block scams like this before you ever see them? 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. 

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Honda’s hybrid future starts with new Accord and RDX prototypes

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Honda’s hybrid future starts with new Accord and RDX prototypes

Honda revealed prototypes of two new hybrid models, an Accord sedan and the Acura RDX SUV, during its annual business briefing this week, built on a platform that it says will begin launching next year. The RDX was announced earlier this year as Honda’s first SUV to feature the next-gen version of its two-motor hybrid system.

In March, Honda announced it would take a writedown of up to 2.5 trillion yen ($15.7 billion) on its EV investments. Now Honda says its EV-related losses will be “resolved” by 2029, and that it will reevaluate its EV plans in 2030.

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