When Apple employees interviewed for jobs at OpenAI, the AI startup’s hardware head allegedly asked them to show up with something unusual: components they were working on and unreleased product samples. That’s according to a blockbuster lawsuit filed by Apple, which accuses OpenAI of stealing confidential documents, spying on hardware prototypes, and tricking one of its trusted partners into performing a proprietary product design technique.
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FBI warns of zoning permit scam emails
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If you are building a home, renovating a property or applying for a zoning permit, there is a new scam you need to watch for. The Federal Bureau of Investigation says criminals are impersonating city and county planning officials in a phishing campaign designed to trick victims into paying fake permit fees.
The messages often look very convincing. A typical fake scam email might look like the one below. In many cases, scammers already know details about the property or the permit application. That makes the email feel real and urgent.
Unfortunately, once victims send the payment, the money is usually gone.
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BE AWARE OF EXTORTION SCAM EMAILS CLAIMING YOUR DATA IS STOLEN
The new zoning permit scam targets people applying for building approvals, often using fake invoices, urgent deadlines and official-sounding language. (Elijah Nouvelage/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
How the zoning permit phishing scam works
According to the FBI, criminals start by gathering publicly available information about zoning applications and development permits. Much of this information is available through city and county government websites. Once scammers find a target, they send an email pretending to come from a local planning or zoning department. The email may include:
- A property address
- A zoning or permit application number
- References to a scheduled hearing
- An invoice for supposed permit fees
The message often claims the payment must be made quickly to avoid delays in the permit approval process. Victims are then instructed to send money using wire transfers, peer-to-peer payment apps or cryptocurrency. Those payment methods are difficult to trace and even harder to recover.
Why the scam emails look so convincing
This scam works because it taps into a real process that many homeowners and businesses already deal with. Planning approvals, zoning permits and building applications often involve fees and official correspondence. When a message arrives that mentions your property or project, it feels legitimate. Criminals also carefully time their messages. Some phishing emails arrive shortly after applicants receive real communication from a local planning department.
The FBI says another warning sign is the email address. Many of the messages come from domains that look official but are not government domains. For example, scammers may use addresses ending in @usa.com or other non-government domains.
IF SOMEONE GETS INTO YOUR EMAIL, THEY OWN EVERY ACCOUNT YOU HAVE. THESE 3 MOVES LOCK THEM OUT FOR GOOD
The FBI is warning homebuilders, renovators and property owners about a phishing scam that uses fake zoning and permit fee emails to steal money. (Rawf8/Getty Images)
Red flags that signal a zoning permit scam
The FBI says several warning signs often appear in these phishing messages.
- First, the sender email address may not end in a legitimate .gov domain.
- Second, the message may include an attachment asking you to request additional details by replying to the email.
- Third, the message may create urgency by claiming your permit will be delayed unless payment is made immediately.
- Finally, the email may demand payment through unusual methods such as wire transfers, peer-to-peer apps or cryptocurrency.
Legitimate government offices rarely request permit payments this way.
This type of government impersonation is growing
Impersonating government officials has become a common tactic for scammers. In recent years, the FBI has warned about criminals pretending to be law enforcement agents, federal officials and even employees of the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).
In one reported case, scammers contacted fraud victims and claimed they could help recover lost money. The criminals pretended to work for the FBI. The bureau has also warned about criminals using AI-generated audio deepfakes to impersonate government officials in voice phishing attacks. These schemes show how quickly scammers adapt their tactics.
How to stay safe from zoning permit phishing scams
The FBI shared several warnings about this scam. Here are practical steps you can take to protect yourself.
1) Verify the sender
Check the email address carefully. Official government communications typically come from a .gov domain.
2) Confirm fees directly
Contact your city or county planning department using the phone number listed on the official website.
3) Never rush payments
Scammers often create urgency. Take time to verify any request for money.
4) Avoid unusual payment methods
Government agencies rarely request payment through wire transfers, peer-to-peer apps or cryptocurrency.
FBI EMAIL HACK SHOWS WHY YOU MUST LOCK DOWN YOUR TECH
The FBI says fake planning department emails are tricking property owners into sending permit payments through wire transfers, apps and crypto. (David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
5) Reduce your public data exposure
Scammers often gather details from public records, property listings and data broker sites to make their messages look legitimate. Using a data removal service can help remove your personal information from many of these databases and reduce the chances that criminals can target you with highly personalized scams.
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
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6) Be cautious with attachments and links
Unexpected files or payment instructions can signal phishing. Do not click on any links or download attachments until you confirm the message is legitimate.
7) Use strong antivirus protection
Strong antivirus software can detect phishing links, malicious downloads and suspicious websites before they compromise your device. Good security software can also warn you if you attempt to visit a known scam page. Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com
8) Report suspicious messages
If you receive a fraudulent email, report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). Providing details like the email address used, the date of the message and the requested payment amount can help investigators track the criminals.
Kurt’s key takeaways
Building permits and zoning approvals already involve paperwork, deadlines and fees. Scammers know this. They exploit the process to create messages that look authentic. A quick moment of verification can make the difference between moving your project forward and losing thousands of dollars to criminals. The more property owners, developers and businesses understand how these scams work, the harder it becomes for criminals to succeed. So the next time an email demands a permit fee, pause before you pay.
If a message about your property arrives asking for immediate payment, would you know how to tell if it came from your local government or a scammer? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com
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Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
The lawsuit primarily revolves around the alleged actions of three people:
- Tang Tan, a 24-year Apple veteran who recently served as the vice president of the Apple Watch. In 2024, Tan left to work on Jony Ive’s hardware company, io, which was acquired by OpenAI last year. OpenAI then appointed Tan as chief hardware officer.
- Chang Liu: A former Apple employee who worked as a systems electrical engineer on the iPhone for over eight years. Liu joined OpenAI in January 2026 as a member of technical staff.
- Yu-Ting “Alyssa” Peng: A former Apple employee who joined OpenAI in April 2026.
They’re accused of being part of an ongoing scheme to steal Apple’s secrets as OpenAI plans its first AI hardware device, which is supposed to be coming next year.
Here are the most surprising claims in Apple’s 41-page filing.
Liu allegedly kept an Apple-owned computer, allowing him to download dozens of confidential files
After announcing plans to leave Apple, Liu allegedly didn’t respond to requests to sign a confidentiality reminder, schedule an exit interview, or confirm that he returned company-owned devices, as is standard with departures at Apple. Instead, Apple claims Liu “failed to return at least one Apple-owned computer,” and told another employee, Peng, that he still has “another computer.”
Liu also allegedly accessed Apple’s cloud-based network storage weeks after he left the company, using an authentication vulnerability that Apple didn’t know about. “Mr. Liu celebrated his find with Ms. Peng and set about exploiting it: ‘LOL, I found out I can access the
[network storage], so funny,’” Apple claims. “Ms. Peng’s response was immediate: “‘I’m ready.’”
Apple accuses Liu of downloading dozens of confidential files from its storage system, including documents containing technical specifications, details about unreleased products, and engineering presentations, including one detailing the manufacturing and testing of Apple’s main logic boards.
Peng is accused of siphoning confidential Apple information to Liu
In the months following Liu’s departure, Peng allegedly kept Liu in the loop about Apple’s projects, engineering details, and vendor relationships. “Ms. Peng and Mr. Liu would engage in depth about those confidential projects, while Mr. Liu was working on developing OpenAI’s competing hardware,” Apple claims. “Mr. Liu’s work for OpenAI was informed by a steadily flowing stream of Apple’s trade secret information from Ms. Peng.”
Apple also claims that Liu informed Peng on how to access and copy files from Apple’s devices “to avoid trouble with the security team,” while pointing her to “specific Apple project folders and proprietary engineering data.” Peng departed Apple for OpenAI in April 2026.
OpenAI’s hardware head allegedly digs for confidential Apple projects during interviews
Tan is accused of soliciting Apple’s trade secrets during interviews with OpenAI job candidates — and quizzing them on it. Apple claims Liu told Peng about how another former Apple employee “fumbled” his answers to a question Tan asked about “a top-secret project for an unreleased new Apple product.” Liu then allegedly downloaded “some info” using his access to Apple’s network to help Peng prepare for her interview.
In another instance, Apple claims another former employee began “screenshotting and downloading files relating to a highly confidential Apple project” before an interview with OpenAI. Tan is accused of asking for more information about that same project during the interview. Last year, Tan admitted to receiving confidential information about an AI hardware startup before joining Ive’s io.
Tan asks former Apple employees to share parts and product samples for “show and tell”
Aside from asking for more information about Apple’s secret projects, Tan is accused of telling interviewees to bring hardware components and product samples from their work at Apple for “show and tell sessions:”
For example, messages left on an Apple-issued work device show that Mr. Tan instructed an Apple employee to “bring some parts [she] worked on” such as “Batteries,” “SIP” (Systems-in-Package), “mlb” (multi-layer or main logic boards), and “shields” and that it may “be good to show” other interviewers these Apple components.
Additionally, OpenAI is accused of asking interviewees to prepare “Technical Deep Dive” presentations, with slides revealing confidential information from their work at Apple.
OpenAI allegedly “coached” Apple employees on how to bypass security measures
Apple claims Tan kept an internal document that outlines employee offboarding procedures. OpenAI allegedly used this information to warn employees coming from Apple about the company’s security checks, and “coached” them on how to avoid it.
The AI giant also advised departing Apple workers not to disclose their new employer, and also offered tips on how to avoid a “dreaded walk out,” which would result in their immediate removal from the company, preventing them from accessing Apple’s systems for a standard two weeks, the lawsuit alleges. OpenAI is accused of telling Apple employees not to “sign anything at the exit interview,” and if they’re asked to sign a document, to tell OpenAI “asap.”
In the lawsuit, Apple says that OpenAI’s alleged tactics “appear to be having their desired effect.” Apple claims it has noticed “a recent trend of employees who are leaving Apple for OpenAI and taking steps to evade security measures,” including workers “ignoring outreach by security personnel to schedule exit processes and security reviews.”
Apple accuses OpenAI of stealing its metal-finishing technique
Apple claims OpenAI has used its confidential information to approach its “trusted partners,” including one that carries out a proprietary, multi-step metal-finishing technique for its products. OpenAI allegedly misled Apple’s partner, making the company believe that OpenAI had Apple’s permission to use the metal-finishing technique. “Apple has not given OpenAI or io permission to use or a license to any of Apple’s trade secrets or confidential information, including those it has entrusted with this partner,” Apple says.
Apple also accuses OpenAI of approaching “at least” one other supplier that works with Apple on manufacturing related to power and batteries. OpenAI allegedly used confidential information and internal codenames to ask “targeted questions” about Apple’s components “that would be useful in furthering OpenAI’s hardware ambitions.”
OpenAI spokesperson Drew Pusateri provided this statement to The Verge on Friday: “We have no interest in other companies’ trade secrets. We remain focused on building innovative technology that empowers people everywhere.”
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Robotaxi BLOCKS Ambulance: Is your SAFETY at risk?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is scrutinizing robotaxi safety, documenting multiple instances of autonomous vehicles driving into active emergency scenes and blocking first responders. NHTSA states an AV that cannot safely interact with first responders poses a danger to the public. They will meet with robotaxi developers this month to discuss solutions.
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Tesla’s robotaxi dream has rolled into Miami. That sounds like a big moment, especially if you have ever sat in South Florida traffic and wondered whether a car could do better without a tired human behind the wheel.
For now, though, the rollout looks careful and limited. Tesla says Robotaxi service is available in limited areas of Miami, Florida as well as Austin, Dallas and Houston, Texas. The Robotaxi app also shows a visual map of where rides are available based on your location.
That means Miami is now Tesla’s newest robotaxi market, but this is not a citywide launch yet. It also puts Tesla in a busy autonomous ride-hailing market where Waymo and Amazon’s Zoox are already trying to win over riders.
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TERRIFIED PASSENGERS FILM WAYMO AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE DRIVING INTO LIVE FIREWORKS IN SAN FRANCISCO
Tesla has expanded its Robotaxi service to Miami, making South Florida its first market outside Texas. The rollout is limited to a small service area as the company continues testing autonomous rides. (Photographer: Tim Goessman/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Why the Tesla Robotaxi Miami service area is limited
The biggest thing to know is that Tesla Robotaxi does not cover all of Miami. Tesla’s Miami geofence covers only a small slice of the metro area, mostly around West Miami and a strip toward Doral and Sweetwater. The early map leaves out downtown Miami, Miami Beach, Miami International Airport and most of Miami-Dade.
So, even though “Miami” is in the headline, your actual ride options depend on where you stand and where you want to go. If you are trying to get from Miami Beach to Brickell after dinner, Tesla Robotaxi may not help you yet. If you are inside the service zone, the app should show what is available before you book.
That limited map also tells you something about the challenge ahead. Miami is not an easy place to prove out robotaxis. Traffic moves fast, rain can hit hard and drivers do not always behave the way software might expect.
Tesla has been building toward this moment for years. CyberGuy previously covered how the Tesla Cybercab removes the steering wheel entirely, which shows how far Tesla wants to take autonomous transportation. For now, though, the Miami rollout still uses Model Y vehicles. That makes this launch another step in Tesla’s longer robotaxi push.
Tesla Robotaxi expansion is moving city by city
Tesla’s robotaxi rollout is still happening in careful stages. Austin came first, followed by Dallas and Houston. Miami now marks Tesla’s first Robotaxi market outside Texas.
CyberGuy previously reported that Tesla cleared Nevada streets for robotaxi testing, which showed the company was preparing for more markets before opening the app to more riders. Tesla has also named other planned cities, including Orlando, Tampa and Phoenix.
ZOOX ROBOTAXI REDESIGN BRINGS BIG RIDER UPGRADES
Tesla’s Robotaxi service has arrived in Miami, but only in select neighborhoods. The expansion marks another step in the company’s push toward fully autonomous transportation. (Photo by Sjoerd van der Wal/Getty Images)
Tesla Robotaxi faces Waymo and Zoox in Miami
Tesla is not entering an empty market. Waymo and Amazon’s Zoox are also accelerating their autonomous vehicle efforts. CyberGuy recently covered how Waymo’s cheaper robotaxi tech could help driverless rides reach more cities faster. Zoox is also a major name to watch in this race. CyberGuy reported that Amazon’s Zoox updated its steering-wheel-free robotaxi with more rider comfort, larger cupholders and a calmer cabin design.
That competition puts pressure on Tesla. Tesla has the brand recognition and a massive base of vehicles on the road. Waymo has more experience with public driverless rides. Zoox is betting on a vehicle built from the ground up for autonomy. For you, that competition could lead to better service over time. More companies fighting for rides may mean wider coverage, better pickup spots and faster improvements.
Tesla Robotaxi safety questions remain
The safety questions are not going away anytime soon. According to a recent review of federal crash data filed with NHTSA, Tesla’s autonomous driving reports included 17 crash narratives tied to the Robotaxi program. That does not mean every reported crash points to a system failure. Still, riders should not ignore the data either.
Autonomous vehicles have to earn trust in everyday driving moments. A rough pickup, confusing stop or strange turn can make you nervous fast. CyberGuy has covered similar safety concerns across the robotaxi space, including a Waymo recall over construction-zone risk. That recall showed how work zones can challenge autonomous systems when signs, cones and lanes change quickly.
Tesla also faces broader scrutiny around Full Self-Driving behavior. CyberGuy previously reported on Tesla’s Mad Max mode in Full Self-Driving, which brought fresh debate over speed, supervision and driver-assist safety.
How to take a Tesla Robotaxi in Miami
To take a Tesla Robotaxi in Miami, you start in the Robotaxi app. Tesla says you need a mobile device to request a ride, and the ride can only be booked for you. Before you confirm, check the service area in the app. Do not assume Robotaxi covers the full city. A ride may work in one part of Miami and fail if your pickup or drop-off sits outside the current zone.
The app shows a price estimate before you confirm. During the ride, you can adjust things like climate, seat position and media through the app or the car’s touchscreen.
Also, keep your phone charged. That phone becomes a key part of booking, managing and finishing the ride.
Finally, pay attention during the trip. You may not be driving, but you should still stay aware of where the car stops and how it handles the ride.
ZOOX ROBOTAXI REDESIGN BRINGS BIG RIDER UPGRADES
Tesla is bringing Robotaxi rides to Miami while competing with Waymo and Zoox in the growing autonomous vehicle market. Service remains limited to a small section of the city. (Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman via Getty Images)
Kurt’s key takeaways
Tesla Robotaxi arriving in Miami is no doubt a big headline, but the fine print is important too. I would not treat this as a full Miami transportation option yet. The service area is limited, major destinations are missing and safety questions remain part of the story. That does not kill the excitement. It simply means Tesla still has to prove that Robotaxi can work beyond a small map. I like that Tesla is expanding beyond Texas. I can also see why people would want to try this. But for now, I would call this a significant step with a lot to prove.
Would you trust a Tesla Robotaxi to drive you through Miami traffic, or would you wait until the service has more miles under its belt? Let us know by writing to us at CyberGuy.com.
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Lorde was performing at the Real Cool Festival in Madrid on Thursday and took some time during her set to speak out against AI glasses. While she didn’t specify any brands in particular, it’s likely she was taking a shot at festival sponsor Ray-Ban, which has collaborated with Meta on a pair of AI smartglasses.
The comments were captured in videos shared to social media. After thanking the crowd for being there and taking part in “something real,” she said that it was increasingly hard to know is and isn’t real, before saying “You don’t know if someone is wearing sunglasses or if they’re wearing those fucked up fucking… Can I just say, for the record, fuck the glasses. Don’t get the glasses. Not sexy.”
The comments come as Meta faces renewed scrutiny over its smart glasses. And, even in the face of that backlash, it is still reportedly planning to launch a pair of “super sensing” glasses that are continuously recording.
According to Stereogum, Lorde was followed on stage by Blackpink’s Jennie, who is a Ray-Ban Meta AI ambassador and has been featured in advertising campaigns on Instagram and in a video screened between sets at Real Cool.
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