Technology
How to make sure you can fly after the REAL ID deadline arrives
As of today, May 7, 2025, the long-awaited REAL ID requirement is officially in effect across the United States.
After years of delays and mounting anticipation, travelers must now show a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, a valid passport or another federally approved form of identification to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities.
The rush to comply has led to packed DMVs, long lines and plenty of confusion about what’s actually required, especially among retired military members.
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Fred from Oklahoma summed up the concerns many are feeling in a recent email to us.
“With the May 7th deadline for everyone to have a REAL ID approaching, it may be time to do a story on the possible impact on retired military. Back in April 2024, a story made many of us nervous or angry. Apparently there was some glitch in TSA software reading an ‘indefinite’ expiration date. Those of us over 65 have a retired ID that never expires.
“It was suggested that TSA’s solution was to no longer accept our ID as an alternative form of REAL ID. It angers us because our ID allows access to military installations, but we’re not allowed to fly? At any rate, there has been no follow-up article that either says the glitch was fixed or dismisses the TSA radical solution…. Maybe you can shed some light on this.”
Let’s break down what’s changed, answer Fred’s question and walk you through exactly how to get a REAL ID if you still need one.
What is the REAL ID and why is it required now?
The REAL ID Act was passed in 2005 to strengthen security standards for state-issued IDs, following recommendations from the 9/11 Commission. Starting today, anyone 18 or older must show a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID (look for a star in the upper corner), a valid passport or another TSA-approved form of identification to board domestic flights or access certain federal buildings. If you don’t have one of these, you may be turned away at airport security, even if you’ve used your current ID for years.
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Will retired military IDs still work at TSA checkpoints?
Good news for Fred and other retired military members: Defense Department-issued IDs, including Common Access Cards, Uniformed Services ID cards and older retiree and family member cards, are still accepted by TSA for domestic airline travel. This includes cards with “INDEF” (indefinite) expiration dates, despite past confusion and software glitches.
However, travelers have reported occasional issues at some airports, where TSA’s system may misread the “INDEF” date as expired. In those cases, TSA officers may ask for another acceptable form of ID, such as a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or a passport. If you have no other ID, a supervisor may review your document and allow you to proceed, but expect possible delays.
The bottom line is that military retiree and dependent ID cards remain valid for flying domestically as of today. If you have experienced problems in the past, it’s wise to bring a backup form of ID if possible.
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What happens if you don’t have a REAL ID yet?
If you show up at the airport today with a standard driver’s license that isn’t REAL ID compliant, and you don’t have a passport or other approved ID, you could face delays, extra screening or even be denied entry at the security checkpoint. TSA is urging travelers to check their IDs before heading to the airport.
However, if you have a valid Global Entry card, you do not need to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license to fly domestically after May 7, 2025. The Global Entry card is a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Trusted Traveler card that meets federal identification standards and is explicitly accepted by TSA as an alternative to a REAL ID. This means you can use your Global Entry card at TSA checkpoints to verify your identity when flying within the United States. Other DHS Trusted Traveler cards, like NEXUS, SENTRI and FAST, are also accepted as alternatives.
Important: Although the Global Entry card is officially accepted, some travelers have reported occasional confusion among TSA agents. To avoid delays, consider carrying an additional form of ID, such as a U.S. passport or passport card.
By using your Global Entry card, you can bypass the need to visit the DMV for a REAL ID and still comply with TSA identification requirements for domestic air travel.
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How to get a REAL ID
If you still need a REAL ID, here’s how to get started. Even after the deadline, you can still apply and use your current license for driving and non-federal purposes.
1. Check your current ID
- Look for a star (gold, black, or in some states, a bear with a star) at the top of your license or state ID.
- If you see it, you’re already REAL ID compliant.
2. Gather your documents
Requirements vary by state, but you’ll typically need:
- Proof of identity (valid, unexpired U.S. passport or birth certificate)
- Proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2 or paystub with full SSN)
- Two proofs of address (utility bills, bank statements, lease/mortgage, etc.)
- Proof of lawful status (if not a U.S. citizen)
Pro tip: If your name has changed (due to marriage, divorce, etc.), bring legal proof (marriage certificate, divorce decree or court order).
3. Make an appointment
- Visit your state DMV’s website to schedule a REAL ID appointment.
- Appointments may be scarce due to high demand, but keep checking as many states add new slots daily and are opening offices earlier or on extra days to help.
4. Go to the DMV
- Bring all required documents
- Fill out the application (some states let you start this online)
- Get your photo taken and pay the fee (varies by state, usually $20-$60).
5. Receive your REAL ID
- Some states issue the card on the spot, others mail it to you.
- Make sure you get your new card before your next flight.
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What if you have a passport?
A valid U.S. passport or passport card is always accepted for domestic flights. If you have one, you do not need a REAL ID to fly, but you will need it for federal facilities that require a REAL ID for entry. If you’re traveling soon, double-check your identification and give yourself plenty of time at the airport. For the latest updates and a full list of acceptable IDs, visit the TSA website.
A man carrying his passport (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
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What if you miss the deadline?
You can still get a REAL ID after May 7, but you won’t be able to use your old license for air travel until you do. In the meantime, you’ll need a valid passport or other approved ID to fly.
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Kurt’s key takeaways
The REAL ID deadline has finally arrived, and it’s understandable if you’re feeling a little overwhelmed by all the changes. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or just want to be ready for an unexpected trip, making sure you have the right ID is now more important than ever. If you’re a retired military member, it’s reassuring to know your military ID is still accepted, but bringing a backup is always a smart move just in case.
How are you feeling about the new REAL ID rules now that they’re officially in effect? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.
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Technology
Grubhub confirms data breach amid extortion claims
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
Technology
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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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.
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Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
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