Technology

Hackers are bypassing fingerprint scanners to steal your identity

Published

8 months ago

May 25, 2025

Hackers are bypassing fingerprint scanners to steal your identity

Fingerprint sensors have been around for quite some time, and they’ve become a standard feature in most smartphones. Apple introduced Touch ID on the iPhone 5s in 2013. Since then, it has appeared on 12 major iPhone models (and some iPads as well).

Though Apple removed it from most phones after the iPhone 8, it’s still found in the iPhone SE series. On the flip side, almost every Android phone on the market has a fingerprint scanner. But are fingerprint scanners impossible to bypass? Frank from Deerton, Michigan, asked a similar question that I want to highlight and address because it helps all of us:

“Can a website be hacked/compromised with password and fingerprint protection (multiple verification)?”

I get what you’re saying, Frank. You’d think that since a fingerprint scanner literally requires your fingerprint, it couldn’t be bypassed. But you’d be wrong. While fingerprint scanners are generally more secure than facial recognition and passwords, they’re not foolproof. In fact, there are several ways bad actors can bypass them to steal your identity.

Join The FREE CyberGuy Report: Get my expert tech tips, critical security alerts and exclusive deals — plus instant access to my free Ultimate Scam Survival Guide when you sign up!

A smartphone on a table (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

5 ways bad actors can bypass fingerprint scanners

There are multiple ways hackers use to bypass fingerprint scanners. Below, I will discuss five of the more prominent methods.

1. Masterprints and DeepMasterPrints

Hackers exploit the concept of “masterprints,” which are fingerprints engineered to match multiple individuals’ prints. Researchers at NYU Tandon developed “DeepMasterPrints” using machine learning to generate synthetic fingerprints that can deceive sensors by mimicking common fingerprint features. These artificial prints can match with a significant percentage of stored fingerprints, especially on devices with less stringent security settings.

2. Forged fingerprints using 3D printing

Another trick hackers use is making fake fingerprints. They can lift prints off things you’ve touched and then use stuff like fabric glue or even 3D printers to make molds. For example, researchers at Cisco Talos tried out a bunch of different ways to do this using 3D printing and tested them on phones like the iPhone 8 and Samsung S10; laptops like the Samsung Note 9, Lenovo Yoga and HP Pavilion X360; and even smart gadgets like padlocks.

On average, the fake fingerprints worked about 80% of the time. They were able to fool the sensors at least once. Interestingly, they couldn’t crack the biometric systems on Windows 10 devices, but they pointed out that doesn’t necessarily mean those are more secure. It just means this particular method didn’t work on them.

19 BILLION PASSWORDS HAVE LEAKED ONLINE: HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

3. Brute force attacks via BrutePrint

Attackers have found a cheap way to break into smartphones by brute force fingerprint authentication. The method, called BrutePrint, lets attackers get around the usual limits that stop too many failed fingerprint attempts. It works by taking advantage of two previously unknown flaws in the fingerprint system. These flaws, named Cancel-After-Match-Fail (CAMF) and Match-After-Lock (MAL), exist because of weak protection for fingerprint data on a part of the hardware called the Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI).

Basically, BrutePrint uses a hardware-based man-in-the-middle attack to hijack fingerprint data. It sits between the fingerprint sensor and the phone’s secure area (called the Trusted Execution Environment) and tries as many fingerprint images as needed until it finds a match. The relieving part is that the attacker needs to have physical access to the phone for this method to work.

4. Side-channel attacks with PrintListener

PrintListener is a side-channel attack that captures the sound of a finger swiping on a screen to extract fingerprint features. It might sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, but researchers have already built a proof of concept. By analyzing the friction sounds, attackers can reconstruct fingerprint patterns, potentially enhancing the effectiveness of masterprint attacks.

5. Exploiting unsecured fingerprint data storage

Some devices store fingerprint data without adequate encryption. If attackers gain access to this unprotected data, they can replicate fingerprints to bypass authentication. For example, in 2024, a misconfigured server exposed nearly 500 GB of sensitive biometric data, including fingerprints, facial scans and personal details of law enforcement applicants.

Image of a smartphone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

TOP 20 APPS TRACKING YOU EVERY DAY

So, can you trust fingerprint scanners?

Fingerprint scanners make it easy and fairly secure to unlock your devices. Since everyone has unique fingerprints, you don’t need to remember complicated passwords. Just a quick touch and you are in. Most modern devices store your fingerprint data in secure parts of the system, and they use things like liveness detection to make sure someone is not trying to trick the scanner with a fake finger.

Still, no security method is perfect. Skilled attackers have found ways to get past fingerprint scanners using high-resolution photos or 3D-printed fingers or by taking advantage of flaws in how the scanner communicates with the rest of the device. The risk really depends on how well the scanner is designed and how much effort someone puts into breaking it. For most people, fingerprint authentication is quick, easy and secure enough. However, if you are dealing with very sensitive information, relying only on biometrics might not be the best idea.

HOW TO REMOVE YOUR PERSONAL INFO FROM PEOPLE SEARCH SITES

A person using a fingerprint for security verification purposes (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

10 SIMPLE STEPS TO IMPROVE YOUR SMARTPHONE’S SECURITY AND PRIVACY

6 ways to protect your fingerprint data

Safeguard your biometric identity with these essential security measures.

1. Choose trusted phone brands: If you’re buying a phone, stick with well-known brands like Apple, Samsung or Google. These companies take extra steps to protect your fingerprint data by storing it in secure areas of the phone that are harder to access. Cheaper or lesser-known brands may not have these protections, which makes it easier for attackers to steal your data.

2. Keep your phone updated: Phone updates are not just about new features. They fix security problems that hackers might use to break into your device. If your phone asks you to install an update, do it. Most phones also let you turn on automatic updates, so you don’t have to worry about remembering. Keeping your software updated is one of the easiest and most important ways to stay protected.

3. Use strong antivirus software: Install strong antivirus software to detect malware that could compromise biometric data storage. Strong antivirus software offers real-time threat detection, anti-phishing and privacy features to block unauthorized access to fingerprint data. 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 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

4. Don’t rely only on your fingerprint: Using a fingerprint to unlock your phone is convenient, but it shouldn’t be your only line of defense, especially for sensitive apps like banking or email. Always set up a PIN, password or pattern as a backup on your iPhone and Android. This way, even if someone manages to copy your fingerprint, they still need another piece of information to get in.

5. Be careful about who handles your phone: If someone else uses your phone, especially a stranger or someone you don’t know well, they might be able to copy your fingerprint from the screen. It’s rare, but it happens. To reduce this risk, avoid handing your phone to people unnecessarily and wipe your screen occasionally to remove any clear fingerprints.

6. Only use fingerprint login with trusted apps: Not every app that asks for your fingerprint is trustworthy. It’s safest to use fingerprint login only with apps from known and reliable companies, like your bank, phone manufacturer or email provider. If an unfamiliar app asks for fingerprint access, it’s better to skip it and use your password instead.

7. Consider using a personal data removal service: Even fingerprint scanners can be bypassed, and large amounts of personal and biometric data have been exposed in breaches. Using a personal data removal service helps reduce your risk by removing your sensitive information from public databases and data broker sites, making it harder for hackers to piece together details that could be used to steal your identity. Check out my top picks for data removal services here.

Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web.

WHAT HACKERS CAN LEARN ABOUT YOU FROM A DATA BROKER FILE

Kurt’s key takeaway

Passwords are generally easier to hack than biometric data like fingerprints or facial recognition. However, the key difference is that passwords can be changed if they’re compromised. Your biometrics cannot. Most modern devices allow both options, and biometrics can offer an extra layer of security by making it harder for someone else to access your phone or apps. They’re also fast and convenient, since you don’t need to remember or type anything. That said, in most cases, your device still falls back on a password or PIN when biometric identification doesn’t work, so both systems often go hand in hand.

With the increasing sophistication of methods to bypass fingerprint security, what should companies be doing to stay ahead of these threats and better protect 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:

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.

Technology

Grubhub confirms data breach amid extortion claims

Published

6 hours ago

January 27, 2026

Press Room

Grubhub confirms data breach amid extortion claims

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

Food delivery platform Grubhub has confirmed a recent data breach after unauthorized actors accessed parts of its internal systems.

The disclosure comes as sources tell BleepingComputer the company is now facing extortion demands linked to stolen data.

In a statement to BleepingComputer, Grubhub said it detected and stopped the activity quickly.

“We’re aware of unauthorized individuals who recently downloaded data from certain Grubhub systems,” the company said. “We quickly investigated, stopped the activity, and are taking steps to further increase our security posture.”

Grubhub added that sensitive information, such as financial details or order history, was not affected. However, the company declined to answer follow-up questions about when the breach occurred, whether customer data was involved or if it is actively being extorted.

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.

RANSOMWARE ATTACK EXPOSES SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBERS AT MAJOR GAS STATION CHAIN

Grubhub confirmed a data breach after unauthorized actors accessed parts of its internal systems, prompting an investigation and heightened security measures. (Michael Nagle/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

What Grubhub has confirmed so far

While details remain limited, Grubhub confirmed several key points. It has brought in a third-party cybersecurity firm and notified law enforcement. Beyond that, the company has stayed largely silent. That lack of detail has raised concern, especially given Grubhub’s recent security history. Just last month, the company was linked to scam emails sent from its own b.grubhub.com subdomain. Those messages promoted a cryptocurrency scam promising large returns on Bitcoin payments. Grubhub said it contained the incident and blocked further unauthorized emails. It did not clarify whether the two events are related.

Sources link the breach to ShinyHunters extortion

According to multiple sources cited by BleepingComputer, the ShinyHunters hacking group is behind the extortion attempt. The group has not publicly commented on the claims and declined to respond when contacted. Sources say the attackers are demanding a Bitcoin payment to prevent the release of stolen data. That data reportedly includes older Salesforce records from a February 2025 breach and newer Zendesk data taken during the most recent intrusion. Grubhub uses Zendesk to run its online customer support system. That platform handles order issues, account access and billing questions, making it a valuable target for attackers.

How stolen credentials may have enabled the attack

Investigators believe the breach may be tied to credentials stolen during earlier Salesloft Drift attacks. In August 2025, threat actors used stolen OAuth tokens from Salesloft’s Salesforce integration to access sensitive systems over a 10-day period. According to a report from Google Threat Intelligence Group, also known as Mandiant, attackers used that stolen data to launch follow-up attacks across multiple platforms. “GTIG observed UNC6395 targeting sensitive credentials such as AWS access keys, passwords and Snowflake-related access tokens,” Google reported. ShinyHunters previously claimed responsibility for that campaign, stating it stole roughly 1.5 billion records from Salesforce environments tied to hundreds of companies.

Why this breach still matters

Even if payment data and order history were not affected, support systems often contain personal details. Names, email addresses and account notes can be enough to fuel phishing attacks or identity scams. More importantly, this incident highlights how older breaches can continue to cause damage long after the initial attack. Stolen credentials that are never rotated remain a powerful entry point for threat actors.

Ways to stay safe after the Grubhub data breach

If you use Grubhub or any online delivery service, a few smart steps can reduce your risk after a breach.

1) Update your password and stop re-use

Start by changing your Grubhub password right away. Make sure you do not reuse that password anywhere else. Reused passwords give attackers an easy path into other accounts. A password manager can help here. It creates strong, unique logins and stores them securely so you do not have to remember them all.

Next, see if your email has been exposed in past breaches. Our No. 1 password manager pick includes a built-in breach scanner that checks whether your email address or passwords have appeared in known leaks. If you discover a match, immediately change any reused passwords and secure those accounts with new, unique credentials.

Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2026 at Cyberguy.com.

ILLINOIS DHS DATA BREACH EXPOSES 700K RESIDENTS’ RECORDS

The food delivery platform says it quickly stopped the intrusion but has not disclosed when the breach occurred or whether customers were targeted. (Leonardo Munoz/VIEWpress)

2) Turn on two-factor authentication

If two-factor authentication (2FA) is available, enable it. This adds a second step when you sign in, such as a code sent to your phone or app. Even if a hacker steals your password, two-factor authentication can stop them from getting in.

3) Watch closely for phishing attempts and use strong antivirus software

Be alert for emails or texts that mention orders, refunds or support issues. Attackers often use stolen support data to make messages feel urgent and real. Do not click links or open attachments unless you are certain they are legitimate. Strong antivirus software can also help block malicious links and downloads before they cause harm.

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.

4) Remove your data from people-search sites

Consider using a data removal service to reduce your online footprint. These services help remove your personal details from data broker sites that attackers often use to build profiles. Less exposed data means fewer tools for scammers to exploit.

While no service can guarantee the complete removal of your data from the internet, a data removal service is really a smart choice. They aren’t cheap, and neither is your privacy. These services do all the work for you by actively monitoring and systematically erasing your personal information from hundreds of websites. It’s what gives me peace of mind and has proven to be the most effective way to erase your personal data from the internet. By limiting the information available, you reduce the risk of scammers cross-referencing data from breaches with information they might find on the dark web, making it harder for them to target you.

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.

Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: Cyberguy.com.

5) Ignore crypto messages using trusted brands

Be skeptical of any cryptocurrency offers tied to familiar companies. Grubhub was previously linked to scam emails promoting crypto schemes, which shows how often attackers abuse trusted names. Legitimate companies do not promise fast returns or pressure you to act immediately.

6) Monitor your Grubhub account and email activity

Check your Grubhub account for anything that looks unfamiliar. Watch for unexpected password reset emails, order confirmations or support messages you did not request. Attackers often test stolen data quietly before making bigger moves.

7) Secure the email linked to your Grubhub account

Your email account is the key to password resets. Change that password and enable two-factor authentication if it is not already on. If attackers control your email, they can regain access even after you change other passwords.

8) Stay alert for delayed scams tied to the breach

Breach data is often reused weeks or months later. Phishing attempts may appear long after headlines fade. Treat any future messages claiming to reference Grubhub support, refunds or account issues with extra caution.

These steps will not undo a breach, but they can limit how attackers exploit stolen information and reduce your risk going forward.

FIBER BROADBAND GIANT INVESTIGATES BREACH AFFECTING 1M USERS

Sources tell BleepingComputer the Grubhub breach is tied to extortion demands involving allegedly stolen customer support data. (Gabby Jones/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Kurt’s key takeaways

Grubhub’s confirmation puts an official stamp on what sources have warned about for weeks. While the company says sensitive data was not affected, unanswered questions remain. As extortion-driven breaches rise, transparency and rapid credential rotation matter more than ever. What stands out most is how past compromises continue to create new risks. When access tokens live too long, attackers do not need to break in again. They simply walk back through an open door.

If companies stay quiet after breaches, how can customers know when it is time to protect themselves? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Technology

TikTok is still down, here are all the latest updates

Published

17 hours ago

January 27, 2026

Press Room

TikTok is still down, here are all the latest updates

Starting early Sunday morning, TikTok’s now under new ownership US arm started breaking down just a couple of days after Oracle & Co took the reins. Its For You page algorithm is suddenly unreliable, while features like comments are failing to load or loading slowly, and publishing new videos seems nearly impossible for many people.

Rumors of censorship targeting anti-ICE protesting or attempting to block discussion of Jeffrey Epstein appear to be misguided (even the governor of California is resharing misinformation now), with problems blocking traffic to all kinds of videos and messages on the service through Monday night.

Read on below for the latest updates about the ongoing TikTok problems.

Technology

Malicious Google Chrome extensions hijack accounts

Published

18 hours ago

January 27, 2026

Press Room

Malicious Google Chrome extensions hijack accounts

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

Cybersecurity researchers have uncovered a serious threat hiding inside Google Chrome.

Several browser extensions pretend to be helpful tools. In reality, they quietly take over user accounts. These extensions impersonate popular human resources and business platforms such as Workday, NetSuite and SAP SuccessFactors. Once installed, they can steal login data and block security controls designed to protect users.

Many people who installed them had no warning signs that anything was wrong.

WHY CLICKING THE WRONG COPILOT LINK COULD PUT YOUR DATA AT RISK

Cybersecurity researchers warn that fake Google Chrome extensions are silently hijacking user accounts by stealing login data and bypassing security protections. (Bildquelle/ullstein bild via Getty Images)

The fake Chrome extensions to watch out for

Security researchers from Socket’s Threat Research Team identified five malicious Chrome extensions connected to this campaign. The add-ons were marketed as productivity or security tools, but were designed to hijack accounts.

The extensions include:

DataByCloud Access
Tool Access 11
DataByCloud 1
DataByCloud 2
Software Access

We reached out to Google, and a spokesperson told CyberGuy that the extensions are no longer available on the Chrome Web Store. However, some are still available on third-party software download sites, which continues to pose a risk. If you see any of these names installed in your browser, remove them immediately.

Why malicious Chrome extensions look legitimate

These malicious add-ons are designed to look legitimate. They use professional names, polished dashboards and business-focused descriptions. Some claim to offer faster access to workplace tools. Others say they restrict user actions to protect company accounts. Privacy policies often promise that no personal data is collected. For people juggling daily work tasks or managing business accounts, the pitch sounds helpful rather than suspicious.

What these extensions actually do

After installation, the extensions operate silently in the background. They steal session cookies, which are small pieces of data that tell websites you are already logged in. When attackers get these cookies, they can access accounts without a password. At the same time, some extensions block access to security pages. Users may be unable to change passwords, disable accounts or review login history. One extension even allows criminals to insert stolen login sessions into another browser. That lets them sign in instantly as the victim.

Why malicious Chrome extensions are so dangerous

This attack goes beyond stealing credentials. It removes the ability to respond. Security teams may detect unusual activity, but cannot fix it through normal controls. Password changes fail. Account settings disappear. Two-factor authentication tools become unreachable. As a result, attackers can maintain access for long periods without being stopped.

How to check for these extensions on your computer

If you use Google Chrome, review your extensions now. The process only takes a few minutes.

Open Google Chrome
Click the three-dot menu in the top right corner
Select Extensions, then choose Manage Extensions
Review every extension listed

Look for unfamiliar names, especially those claiming to offer access to HR platforms or business tools.

WEB SKIMMING ATTACKS TARGET MAJOR PAYMENT NETWORKS

Malicious Chrome add-ons disguised as productivity tools targeted users of popular business platforms like Workday, NetSuite and SAP SuccessFactors. (Photo by S3studio/Getty Images)

How to remove suspicious Chrome extensions

If you find one of these extensions, remove it immediately.

Open Manage Extensions in Chrome
Find the suspicious extension
Click Remove
Confirm when prompted

Restart your browser after removal to ensure the extension is fully disabled. If Chrome sync is enabled, repeat these steps on all synced devices before turning sync back on.

What to do after removing the extension

Removal is only the first step. Change passwords for any accounts accessed while the extension was installed. Use a different browser or device if possible.

A password manager can help you create strong, unique passwords for each account and store them securely. This reduces the risk of reused passwords being exploited again.

Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2026 at Cyberguy.com.

Finally, review account activity for unfamiliar logins, locations or devices and be sure to follow the steps below to stay safe moving forward.

Ways to stay safe going forward

Simple habits can significantly reduce your risk.

1) Limit browser extensions

Only install extensions you truly need. The fewer extensions you use, the smaller your attack surface becomes.

2) Be cautious with add-ons

Avoid extensions that promise premium access or special tools for enterprise platforms. Legitimate companies rarely require browser add-ons for account access.

3) Check permissions carefully

Be wary of extensions that request access to cookies, browsing data or account management. These permissions can be abused to hijack sessions.

4) Review extensions regularly

Check your browser every few months and remove tools you no longer use or recognize.

WHATSAPP WEB MALWARE SPREADS BANKING TROJAN AUTOMATICALLY

Several fake browser extensions were removed from the Chrome Web Store after researchers linked them to account takeover attacks. (Photo Illustration by Serene Lee/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

5) Use strong antivirus software

Strong antivirus software can help detect malicious extensions, block suspicious behavior and alert you to browser-based threats before damage occurs.

Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.

6) Consider a data removal service

If your work or personal information has been exposed, a data removal service can help reduce your digital footprint by removing your details from data broker sites. This lowers the risk of follow-up scams or identity misuse.

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.

Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: Cyberguy.com.

7) Avoid third-party download sites

Do not reinstall extensions from third-party websites, even if they claim to offer the same features. These sites often host outdated or malicious versions.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Kurt’s key takeaways

Browser extensions can be useful, but this research shows how easily they can also be abused. These fake Chrome add-ons did not rely on flashy tricks or obvious warnings. They blended in, looked professional and quietly did their damage in the background. The good news is that you do not need to be a tech expert to protect yourself. Taking a few minutes to review your extensions, remove anything unfamiliar and lock down your accounts can make a real difference. Small habits, repeated regularly, go a long way in reducing risk. If there is one takeaway here, it is this: convenience should never come at the cost of security. A clean browser and strong account protections give you back control.

How many browser extensions do you have installed right now that you have never looked at twice? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.