Anthropic just released Claude Fable 5, calling it the most powerful AI model it has ever made widely available and praising its skills in biology, among others. But the model won’t answer basic biology questions — the kind you’d expect a high schooler to handle. Instead, it hands off the query to the former flagship model, Claude Opus 4.8.
Technology
How to breathe new life into an old computer
Got an old computer collecting dust in a closet or tucked under a desk? You’re not alone. Many people hold on to aging desktops and laptops, either as backup machines or because they still run “just fine.” But here’s the catch: if that PC is no longer receiving Windows updates, it could be a security risk, even if it seems perfectly functional. Janet from East Wakefield, NH, recently wrote to us about this very dilemma:
“We need to update our computer due to Windows 11 not running on our older computer. We have two older computers, one we are upgrading and the second one I would like to continue to use on occasion. Do I run the risk of incursions into my software since I will no longer get security upgrades? Any advice on what I should remove (ie, finance info.)? Also, any advice for the older tower? Runs perfectly with solid state SSD. We are loath to put it into the recycling bin.”
The good news is you don’t have to toss it just yet. With a few smart steps, you can use it safely or transform it into something completely new and useful. Let’s look at how you can breathe new life into your old computer.
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A woman working on her older laptop. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Why using an unsupported PC can be risky
First of all, once Microsoft stops supporting your version of Windows, your PC no longer receives security patches, bug fixes, updated drivers, or browser support. Even if the system still runs smoothly, it becomes more vulnerable to cyber threats like malware, ransomware, phishing attacks and data theft. An outdated operating system is like an unlocked door. Hackers and malicious software often target these systems specifically because of their weaknesses. If you plan to keep using an older computer, especially with internet access, it’s time to update your operating system.
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How to protect your old PC for occasional use
If you still plan to use your PC occasionally, you can minimize the risks with these simple but effective steps:
1. Use it offline only: The easiest way to stay secure is to keep your old PC off the internet entirely. You can still use it for:
- Word processing
- Organizing archives or photos
- Creative projects
- Offline games or journaling
Without internet access, you remove most external threats.
2. Remove all sensitive data: Even if you’re only using your computer for basic tasks, it’s important to scrub any personal or financial information from the system. That includes:
- Tax documents
- Bank statements
- Saved passwords
- Files with Social Security numbers
- Scanned IDs or legal documents
One effective way to securely wipe all personal files at once is to use the built-in Windows reset option, found under Settings > System > Recovery. This will remove your files and restore the system to a clean state. For step-by-step instructions, check out Microsoft’s guide to resetting your PC.
Once your old PC is wiped, it’s smart to strengthen the security of your active devices. Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) for your accounts and use a password manager to keep your credentials safe and organized. Get more details about my best expert-reviewed Password Managers of 2025 here.
3. Disable browsers (or use a safer alternative): If you need occasional internet access, avoid using outdated browsers like old versions of Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge. Instead, try privacy-focused alternative browsers. Or better yet? Disable browsers altogether and connect to the web on a newer, supported device.
4. Install strong antivirus software that supports legacy systems: Even an offline PC can be exposed via USB drives or transferred files. 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. Before installing antivirus software, make sure your older computer meets the minimum system requirements. Check for supported operating system (OS) version, RAM, and processor architecture (32-bit or 64-bit). Most providers list these on their site. Get my picks for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices
5. Keep important files on external storage: Avoid saving sensitive files directly on the old PC. Instead:
This keeps your data portable, protected and off the aging hardware. That way, your files are safe even if the old computer fails, and you can access them from newer devices anytime.
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A man working on his PC. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
TRANSFERRING DATA FROM AN OLD LAPTOP TO A NEW ONE
What about older Macs?
While this guide focuses on Windows PCs, many of the same principles apply to older Macs, especially if your system is stuck on unsupported macOS versions like High Sierra or Mojave. The best way to stay safe is to limit internet use, remove sensitive data, use supported browsers and install reliable antivirus software.
That said, older Macs have a few unique considerations:
- Limited upgrade paths: Apple restricts OS upgrades to certain hardware. You may be locked into an older system unless you install a custom macOS patcher or switch to Linux.
- Tighter integration with Apple services: Be sure to fully sign out of iCloud and disable Find My Mac before wiping or repurposing.
- Fewer repurposing options: While some Macs make great writing machines or media centers, they’re harder to customize or reconfigure than tower PCs because most Apple hardware isn’t designed for self-upgrades. Components like memory or storage are often sealed, soldered or require special tools to access.
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Ready for a second life? Here’s how to repurpose it
If the system still has a working tower, especially an SSD (Solid-State Drive), which provides fast storage and efficient performance, it could be perfect for a modern, low-cost makeover.
Option 1: Install Linux for a secure, fresh operating system
Linux is a free, fast, and secure alternative to Windows that works especially well on older computers. It’s still actively supported and great for basic tasks like browsing the web, checking emails, editing documents, streaming videos or even learning to code. You don’t need to be a tech expert to install it, as most versions come with easy, step-by-step installers.
Here are some beginner-friendly Linux versions (called “distributions” or “distros”):
- Linux Mint — Designed to feel familiar to Windows users, with a simple, traditional desktop and lots of built-in help.
- Ubuntu — One of the most popular Linux versions, known for its large support community and extensive online guides, making it easy to find help if you get stuck.
- Zorin OS — Offers a polished, modern look that resembles Windows or macOS, making it ideal for casual users or anyone switching from those systems. It even helps you run some Windows programs and provides a very user-friendly experience.
For example, Zorin OS lets you choose a desktop layout that looks like Windows, so you don’t have to relearn everything. Ubuntu is famous for its reliability and the huge number of tutorials available online, which is helpful if you’re new to Linux.
And yes, you really can install these yourself, even if you’ve never tried Linux before. This beginner’s guide to installing Linux Mint walks you through the entire process.
Option 2: Turn it into a home server or backup station
Your old PC can become the backbone of your home network. A few creative uses:
- Media center — Stream content to your TV
- Photo/video archive — Store backups and organize family memories
- Local file backup server — Save copies of important files from other devices at home
- Print or file server — Share printers or storage across devices
This keeps your old machine useful without needing daily interaction.
Option 3: Selling your PC
Before you get rid of your old PC, consider whether selling or recycling is the best fit for you. Both options are eco-friendly and can be rewarding if done right. Here’s how to handle your PC responsibly:
- Back up and wipe data: Save your important files to an external drive or cloud storage. Then, use secure data-erasing software to completely wipe your PC, ensuring your personal information is unrecoverable.
- Remove accounts and reset: Log out of all accounts, deactivate software licenses and perform a factory reset so the next owner starts fresh.
- Selling your PC: If your PC is in good condition, consider selling it through reputable platforms such as Amazon Trade-In, eBay, or local electronics stores. These options can put cash or gift cards in your pocket. Always be cautious of scams, use secure payment methods and avoid sharing unnecessary personal details.
Option 4: Donate or responsibly upcycle
If you’re done with it, let someone else benefit:
- Schools, nonprofits and senior centers often accept working devices.
- Buy Nothing or Freecycle groups can help you find a local taker.
- Some e-waste centers refurbish old PCs for families in need.
Be sure to wipe the hard drive before donating. Consider using a data erasure tool or disk-wiping software to securely erase the entire hard drive. However, always back up any important files before wiping your drive. Always, confirm that you are targeting the correct storage device during the process to avoid accidental data loss. If you’re unable to securely erase sensitive materials from your hard drive, consider removing the drive before donation and recycling it separately.
Solid-State Drive. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
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Simple upgrades that can extend its life even further
If you’re keeping the machine and want to get the most out of it, a few basic hardware upgrades can go a long way, even on an older system. These are budget-friendly fixes that can significantly improve speed, stability and longevity.
1. Add more RAM: If your system has 4GB or less, upgrading to 8 GB+ can significantly improve multitasking and responsiveness, especially with Linux. Look up your PC’s model number on the manufacturer’s website to find compatible memory. Many desktops (and some laptops) let you upgrade RAM by simply opening the case and inserting the new memory sticks into available slots.
2. Upgrade to an SSD: If you’re still using a traditional hard drive, switching to a solid-state drive can dramatically reduce boot times and make your PC feel brand new. For most older machines, look for SSDs labeled “2.5-inch SATA”, which are the most widely compatible and easy to install. Some newer systems support faster NVMe SSDs, which connect directly to the motherboard. Check your PC model or open the case to see which type your system supports. Be sure to back up your files, then either reinstall the operating system manually or clone your current drive before replacing it.
3. Clean out the dust and refresh thermal paste: Older desktops tend to overheat, which can slow things down or cause random shutdowns. Open up the case and:
- Use compressed air to clean fans and vents
- Consider replacing the thermal paste on the CPU if it’s been several years
4. Swap out the battery or power supply: If your laptop battery no longer holds a charge, or if your desktop randomly shuts off, consider replacing the battery or power supply unit.
Kurt’s key takeaways
Just because a computer is old doesn’t mean it’s useless. Whether you’re turning it into a writing station, a media server, or giving Linux a try, your old PC can still be a valuable tool. The key is security. Unsupported systems can be risky if used online, but with a few precautions or by repurposing them entirely, you can keep your data safe and extend the machine’s life in meaningful ways.
Have you repurposed an old PC? We’d love to hear what you’re doing with your older tech. Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact
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Bluesky will be getting “communities,” which will function as smaller spaces where you can “go deeper and hang out with people who care about the same stuff” sometime this year, according to head of product Alex Benzer. They will be built on the decentralized AT Protocol that underpins Bluesky, with Benzer saying that “it’s a new structure for everyone” that’s part of the “Atmosphere” (a shorthand for the AT Protocol ecosystem).
Benzer listed out a “few ideas we have in mind so far” in a thread. “On Bluesky, you’ll be able to create communities, join them, post in them, and get updates,” Benzer says. “The core features on Bluesky stay simple. The magic comes from communities also existing on the open web. This means you can truly customize them and add features with other Atmospheric apps and tools.”
Communities will get a handle that “doubles as a URL,” and if you go to that URL, you’ll “land on a custom homepage for the community,” according to Benzer. “Builders can also host a completely custom experience there instead.” There will be three privacy levels for communities: public, invite-only, and private. And each community would have its own feed, Benzer says.
Benzer’s thread follows Bluesky COO Rose Wang saying last week that the company wanted to move away from being a “public square” and that it was “very inspired by companies like Reddit.” Meta’s Threads is currently testing a communities feature, while X announced in April that it would be shutting down its own take on communities.
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Amazon is getting ready for Prime Day, and you can bet scammers are, too. In fact, I received a fake Amazon email that looked like an account recovery warning. It claimed there was unusual activity on my account and pushed me to “Sign In to Verify.”
That kind of message can make anyone uneasy. It certainly did for me. After all, who wants to lose access to an account right before a major sale? Then came the part that really stood out: the email said I might need to upload a document to confirm my account.
That was the giveaway. A real deal can save you money. A fake Amazon email can cost you your login, your payment details and even your identity.
Here’s how this scam works, the red flags that exposed it and the steps you should take before clicking any Amazon account warning.
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A fake Amazon account recovery email is targeting shoppers ahead of Prime Day, using urgency and document requests to steal sensitive information. (Photographer: David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Fake Amazon email warning before Prime Day
The timing made this phishing email more convincing. With Prime Day coming up, many people are already watching for Amazon emails. They may be checking delivery updates, deal alerts and order confirmations. That creates the perfect opening for a fake account warning.
The email used the same tricks you see in many phishing scams. It claimed there was account trouble, used urgent language and pushed me toward a sign-in button. That is exactly what scammers want.
Screenshot of scam fake Amazon email (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
They want you to react before you inspect the message. They want you to sign in before you think through the request. And in this case, they wanted me to believe a document upload was part of a normal Amazon account check.
Amazon phishing scam red flags
This fake Amazon email had several warning signs. First, it landed in my junk folder. That alone does not prove fraud, but it should make you cautious.
Second, the subject line sounded awkward. It said, “Account Recovery: Sign-in and Verify your Amazon account.” That wording felt stiff and a little off.
Third, the greeting was generic. The email said “Dear Customer” even though it claimed to be about my Amazon account. That alone does not prove the email is fake, but it adds to the concern.
Fourth, the message created urgency. It claimed the account was on hold and that orders or subscriptions had already been canceled.
Fifth, the sender display name said “Amazon,” while the address appeared as account_update@amazon.com. That may look official at first. Still, scammers can spoof sender names or make email addresses look convincing.
Under the yellow “Sign In to Verify” button, the email also says, “Don’t share it with others.” That may sound protective, but in this context, it felt like another attempt to make the fake warning seem official.
The biggest warning sign came from the document request. The email said I would have the option to upload a document with the required information to verify the account.
That should stop you cold. Scammers may be after more than your Amazon password. They may also want your driver’s license, passport, address, phone number or payment details.
Screenshot of fake Amazon email sender address (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Why fake Amazon account emails fool shoppers
This scam works because it hits a very real fear. Most people do not want to lose access to an online shopping account. That concern grows when a big sale is about to start. If you are planning to buy something on Prime Day, an account warning can feel urgent.
The email also borrowed Amazon’s familiar look. It used the Amazon name, a logo area and a yellow sign-in button. It also included a footer that appeared to show an Amazon.com link. That can make the message feel safer than it really is.
Here is the problem. The visible link text in an email can mislead you. A link can appear to point to Amazon while sending you somewhere else. It can also pass through tracking links, redirects or look-alike pages. That is why you should avoid signing in through any account warning email.
120,000 FAKE SITES FUEL AMAZON PRIME DAY SCAMS
Scammers are impersonating Amazon with convincing account alerts designed to capture login credentials, payment details and personal documents. (Photographer: Michael Nagle/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
What happens if you click a fake Amazon link
If you click the link, you may land on a fake Amazon sign-in page. It may look close enough to fool you. Once you enter your email and password, scammers can try to access your real Amazon account. They may check your saved payment methods, shipping addresses and order history.
They may also try that same password on other websites. That becomes a bigger risk if you reuse passwords.
The document request adds another layer of danger. If a fake page asks for your ID, scammers could use that information for identity theft, account takeovers or other fraud. That is why one quick click can turn into a much bigger mess.
Ways to stay safe from fake Amazon emails
A fake Amazon email can look convincing at first, so the best move is to slow down and use these simple checks before you click, sign in or share anything.
1) Do not click the sign-in button
Skip buttons like “Sign In to Verify,” “View details” or “Restore access.” Open the Amazon app or type Amazon.com into your browser yourself.
2) Check Amazon’s Message Center
After signing in directly, go to Your Account > Message Center. If the alert is real, you should see a matching message there.
3) Watch for pressure language
Scammers often say your account is locked, your orders were canceled, or you must act right away. That pressure is designed to make you click before thinking.
4) Never upload ID through an email link
If an email asks for a passport, driver’s license or other document, stop. Contact Amazon through the app or website before sending anything.
5) Use a password manager
A password manager can help you spot fake login pages. If the page is fake, your saved Amazon password usually will not autofill. Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2026 at CyberGuy.com.
6) Turn on two-step verification
7) Use strong antivirus software
Install strong antivirus software on your computer, phone and tablet. Good security software can help detect malicious links, phishing pages, malware and other threats before they do damage. This is especially important if you clicked a suspicious link or downloaded anything from a fake email. Security software should back up your smart habits, not replace them. Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at CyberGuy.com.
8) Use a data removal service
Scammers often build more convincing attacks with information they find about you online. That can include your name, address, phone number, relatives, old usernames and other personal details from people-search sites and data brokers. A data removal service can help remove your personal information from many of those sites. That makes it harder for scammers to personalize phishing emails and identity theft attempts. 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.
9) Report the suspicious email
Forward suspicious Amazon emails to reportascam@amazon.com. Then delete the message from your inbox or junk folder.
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Cybersecurity experts warn consumers to avoid clicking links in Amazon account warning emails and verify alerts directly through Amazon. (David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Kurt’s key takeaways
Prime Day is a great time to find real deals, but it is also a busy season for fake Amazon emails. Scammers know shoppers are checking delivery updates, watching for discounts and hoping nothing gets in the way of a good buy. That is what made this email so sneaky. It used a familiar fear at the perfect moment: losing access to your account right before a major sale. The safest move is to slow down before you click. Do not trust the button. Do not trust the sender name alone. Open the Amazon app or type Amazon.com into your browser and check your account yourself.
Have you ever received an email that looked official enough to make you click, and what finally made you stop? Let us know by writing to us at CyberGuy.com.
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HOW TO DETECT FAKE AMAZON EMAILS AND AVOID IMPERSONATION SCAMS
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It isn’t because Fable doesn’t know the answers. It’s because Anthropic won’t let it, by design.
Fable is a public-facing, Mythos-class model, a family so capable at cybersecurity tasks Anthropic said it was too dangerous to release publicly. But while Anthropic has spent much of the extended Mythos rollout warning about cybersecurity, it is biology where Fable’s guardrails are the most obvious — and most limiting.
When I tried the model, it refused to answer a range of basic biology questions, many that felt about as far away from any plausible safety risk as any question could be. It would not respond to “tell me about cell membranes” or answer “what are mitochondria,” that famous powerhouse of the cell. It refused to explain “what is a prion,” the proteinaceous particles behind mad cow disease, or “how mRNA vaccines work.”
“We made this tradeoff so customers could benefit from the model’s capabilities sooner without the risks.”
The restrictions applied to ordinary and objectively rather harmless medical queries too. Fable would not answer “what causes hay fever,” explain how asthma medicine works, explain how antibiotic resistance arises, or tell me what Ebola is and how it spreads. Some of my basic queries occasionally got through, with Fable answering questions like “what is cancer” and “what is DNA.” When Fable refused, Opus 4.8 generally answered perfectly well.
Anthropic says the broad biology filters are an intentional choice and are deliberately conservative, with bioweapons the primary concern. “With the launch of Claude Fable 5, our first Mythos-class model, we believe models now have a greater ability to accomplish real-world scientific tasks and for malicious actors to potentially use our models for highly risky biological research,” spokesperson Paruul Maheshwary told The Verge. “We have always used classifiers to block our models from helping with bioweapons-related requests. To deploy Fable 5 safely, we believe it was necessary to be overly conservative with our safeguards so they block most queries tied to biology work.”
Anthropic has previously highlighted four key areas where it would throttle Fable’s responses for safety: chemistry, biology, cybersecurity, and distillation, a technique for training smaller AIs using the outputs of larger ones. The company has accused Chinese rivals like DeepSeek of using distillation on its models on an “industrial” scale.
While I could not meaningfully test distillation, Fable seemed more willing to answer questions about chemistry and cybersecurity. For example, it gave a basic overview of the explosive TNT, though withheld synthesis instructions “for obvious reasons.” It readily answered questions on the use of chlorine gas as a chemical weapon, common password threats, and nuclear fusion and fission, as well as explaining how to secure an iPhone from hackers. It still limits: Fable deferred to Opus when I asked it about sarin gas, a highly toxic nerve agent. Fable and Opus both refused the prompt “how to make anthrax,” and Claude paused the chat entirely. That made sense. The mitochondria prompt refusal seems like a false positive.
“We made this tradeoff so customers could benefit from the model’s capabilities sooner without the risks,” Maheshwary explained, adding that Anthropic is working hard to improve its detection and reduce the false positives. “We intend to make Mythos-class models available without these safeguards to the broader biology and life sciences community so these capabilities can be used to accelerate biomedical research and drug discovery.”
Anthropic did not answer questions about whether this kind of restricted release will become the new norm for future models.
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