This is Optimizer, a weekly newsletter sent every Friday from Verge senior reviewer Victoria Song that dissects and discusses the latest gizmos and potions that swear they’re going to change your life. Opt in for Optimizer here.
Technology
How to stay connected no matter where you travel in the world
These days, we are so reliant on our phones that it’s important to be able to use them when we travel. After all, imagine landing in another country only to find out you can’t make phone calls, send texts or even open your email to pull up your hotel reservation.
What about using the map to find out where you’re going? And who wants to spend their vacation trying to figure out how to get their phone to work abroad instead of just having it work when they get there?
What makes this all worse is if you discussed this with your phone company beforehand and were assured your phone would work, only to arrive and it doesn’t.
GET SECURITY ALERTS, EXPERT TIPS – SIGN UP FOR KURT’S NEWSLETTER – THE CYBERGUY REPORT HERE
Smartphone with a SIM card displayed next to it (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Will my phone work abroad?
This happened to Jack, who wrote to tell us about his situation. When he arrived at his destination — despite already confirming with his phone service provider that his wife’s new iPhone would work properly — she could not make or receive calls. Eventually, they ran out to buy a SIM card to use, only to discover that the phone only accepts eSIM and does not have a SIM card slot. Unfortunately, this situation is all too common. So, how can you stay connected no matter where you travel in the world? Here are some tips.
A couple taking a selfie on vacation (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
THE BEST TRAVEL GEAR FOR 2024
What are my phone options when traveling abroad?
Even though our phones have become more sophisticated and the globe is more connected, getting your phone to work in another country (or countries) isn’t so straightforward. Each phone company has its own policies, and each device has capabilities and limitations when installing other SIM cards. This means that when you travel, you essentially have five options to use your device abroad:
1. Pay for an international plan: Some phone providers have international plans. You essentially pay more on your monthly bill for the time you’re traveling, and you can use your phone. However, there may still be restrictions in terms of how many calls and texts you can make and/or how much data you can use. Be sure to check this.
2. Buy an international SIM card: If you don’t want to pay more for your phone plan in order to be able to use your phone internationally as is, then you can buy an international SIM card. These come in the form of an eSIM (a downloadable sim card) or a physical SIM card that you can put in your phone, swapping with the one you normally use or inserting it in the other slot as some phones have more than one sim card slot for this very reason. ESIM cards can be purchased online/downloaded, and physical SIMs are generally purchased in the country upon arrival. They can typically be purchased at the airport.
3. Use data only: Some people opt to only use data plans when they go abroad, as they may not need to make phone calls or send SMS. They may use communication apps like Whatsapp or Facebook Messenger, map applications, etc., with no need for a calling/texting plan. Some phone companies offer this or have specific rates for data used abroad.
4. Use Wi-Fi only: This isn’t always recommended, as it is important to be able to use your cellphone when traveling. However, for many years, people traveled this way. So, if you’re up for it and the situation allows for it, then you can decide to use Wi-Fi only during your travel, perhaps at your accommodation or in public areas. However, be cautious when using public Wi-Fi, as it can pose security risks to your personal information. Some people may also try this Wi-Fi-only option out first, and then, if they need it, they can purchase a sim card, as some cities have free Wi-Fi all over. You can also consider purchasing a mobile hot spot.
5. Buy a prepaid phone abroad: If none of the options work for you (we’ll cover more on why this could be below), you can also opt to buy a cheap phone while abroad. This option could also be ideal for someone who will be outdoors a lot or traveling to an area that may be less safe, so you don’t want to risk bringing your actual phone.
A woman looking at her cellphone while on vacation (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
HOW TO SET UP FREE MESSAGING ON YOUR PHONE WHILE TRAVELING INTERNATIONALLY
How to ensure you’re connected while traveling
If you want to be absolutely sure you’ll be able to use your phone while traveling, follow the steps below. At least if one option is not available or does not work, you’ll know what other options are out there so you don’t end up in a bind and unable to use your phone.
Step 1: Before you travel
Before you travel — and, in some cases, before you even purchase your phone — there are some things you’ll want to verify before hitting the road to ensure your phone will work abroad:
Check device compatibility: Ensure your phone is unlocked, can use eSIM technology and/or if it has a sim card slot. Again, some devices even have two slots, so you don’t have to risk losing that tiny sim card you normally use when you’d swap it out. Most newer iPhones (specifically, iPhone XS and newer), Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel devices support eSIMs. This is important to know if your carrier does not have a suitable international plan.
Check mobile standards: Contact your phone manufacturer for verification about which mobile standards your phone uses. A GSM-compliant phone is more likely to work around the world than a CDMA-compliant phone.
Check your carrier’s options: Every mobile service provider understands that their customers might need to travel overseas occasionally and has specific service plans for this. Carriers might include international roaming on select data plans without additional fees. Be sure to understand how this works and confirm prices, scenarios, etc.
If needed, purchase an eSIM: If an international plan is not an option, look into purchasing an eSIM for the country you’re going to. Many carriers offer prepaid plan options that you can purchase from the carriers’ websites or apps before you arrive, and there are also new companies out there that offer this. Be sure to check that your device is compatible with the company and understand their rules. For instance, some companies require you to install the eSIM once you’re in that country, so you won’t want to install it before.
Opt to buy a physical SIM card or prepaid phone when you arrive: Even people who have phones that are compatible with eSIM can still run into unexpected problems. Otherwise, some people may just prefer to purchase a physical SIM card that they can insert into their phone when they arrive. This also goes for prepaid phones. We’ll cover this more in a bit.
Check cell signals where you’re going: Even if your device is technically compatible, it could be the case that where you’re going it won’t matter due to the infrastructure. For example, if you’re traveling somewhere very remote, you may not have connectivity regardless. Of course, in some cases, you may not be able to know this until you arrive.
SUBSCRIBE TO KURT’S YOUTUBE CHANNEL FOR QUICK VIDEO TIPS ON HOW TO WORK ALL OF YOUR TECH DEVICES
A woman holding up her phone with eSIM displayed on her device (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
HOW TO PROTECT YOUR ONLINE PRIVACY AND SECURITY ON YOUR NEXT CRUISE VACATION
Step 2: When you arrive
When you arrive at your destination — depending on which option you’ve opted for — you’ll have to set it up to get it working. This may look slightly different depending on the carrier and device, but generally, these are the next steps:
To use your international phone plan from your provider
If you’ve already spoken to your phone provider and paid for an international plan, they should be able to tell you how to set this up on your unique device when you arrive. But generally, you’ll need to turn on data roaming.
Turn on data roaming on iPhone:
- Open the Settings app
- Tap Cellular (or Mobile Data)
- Tap Cellular Data Options (or Mobile Data Options)
- Toggle on Data Roaming
Turn on data roaming on Android:
(Note: These steps may vary slightly depending on the device model and Android version.)
- Open the Settings app
- Tap Network & Internet (or Connections)
- Tap Mobile Network (or Cellular Networks)
- Toggle on Data Roaming
To use an eSIM
If you’ve decided to go with the eSIM option, you’ll need to activate it. Usually, you download it and activate when you arrive at your destination, but not always. This, again, should be clarified before purchasing the eSIM, as many companies are strict about their return policies. Typically, you can use a QR code to activate that plan via the eSIM card on your cellular device.
BEST PREPAID SIMS & ESIM CARDS FOR TRAVELERS
To purchase and use a physical SIM card
If you plan on buying a physical SIM card when you arrive, sometimes the best place is at the airport. This way, you can use your phone right away.
Install a physical SIM card on iPhone:
- Locate the SIM tray on the side of your iPhone.
- Use a SIM ejector tool or a paperclip to press into the small hole next to the SIM tray to eject it.
- Remove the SIM tray and place your new SIM card into the tray.
- Reinsert the SIM tray back into the iPhone.
- Your iPhone should automatically detect the new SIM card and connect to the network.
Install a physical SIM card on Android:
(Note: These steps may vary slightly depending on the device model and Android version.)
- Locate the SIM tray on the side or back of your Android device.
- Use a SIM ejector tool or a paperclip to press into the small hole next to the SIM tray to eject it.
- Remove the SIM tray and place your new SIM card into the tray.
- Reinsert the SIM tray back into the Android device.
- Your Android device should automatically detect the new SIM card and connect to the network.
To buy a prepaid phone
If the above options don’t work for whatever reason, you can also purchase a disposable phone for travel. Similar to purchasing a physical sim card once you arrive, purchasing that prepaid phone at the airport may be best, as they can help you get connected immediately.
A man on his phone while on vacation (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Step 3: When you get back home
When you’re finished with your trip, and you’re back home, you’ll want to use your normal phone again.
If you had an international plan:
- Contact your phone provider to ensure your international plan is deactivated or adjust it according to your future needs.
- Confirm that your domestic plan is active and that your settings are back to normal.
If you had an eSIM:
- Go to your phone’s Settings.For iPhone: Open Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data) > Select your eSIM plan > Remove Cellular Plan.For Android: Open Settings > Network & Internet (or Connections) > Mobile Network > Advanced > Select your eSIM plan > Delete.
- For iPhone: Open Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data) > Select your eSIM plan > Remove Cellular Plan.
- For Android: Open Settings > Network & Internet (or Connections) > Mobile Network > Advanced > Select your eSIM plan > Delete.
- Ensure your primary SIM is active and set as the default for calls, messages and data.
If you had a physical SIM card:
- Remove the international SIM card from your phone.For iPhone: Use a SIM ejector tool or a paperclip to press into the small hole next to the SIM tray to eject it.For Android: Use a SIM ejector tool or a paperclip to press into the small hole next to the SIM tray to eject it.
- For iPhone: Use a SIM ejector tool or a paperclip to press into the small hole next to the SIM tray to eject it.
- For Android: Use a SIM ejector tool or a paperclip to press into the small hole next to the SIM tray to eject it.
- Reinsert your domestic SIM card back into your phone.
- Ensure your phone connects to your home network and all settings revert to your domestic plan.
BEST TRAVEL ADAPTERS OF 2024
Kurt’s key takeaway
Don’t let all these options overwhelm you. Remember, the key is to plan ahead and choose the method that best fits your needs and destination. Whether you’re team eSIM, physical SIM card or even considering going old school with a prepaid phone, there’s a solution out there for every globetrotter. And hey, let’s not forget the most important part of traveling — actually enjoying your trip. Once you’ve sorted out your phone situation, make sure to put it down every now and then to soak in the sights, sounds and experiences of your destination. After all, isn’t that what traveling is all about?
How has technology changed how you experience and document your travels, and do you think these changes have enhanced or detracted from exploring new places? 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:
Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
These days, it seems I cannot escape peptides. Online, I’ve been assaulted by videos of shirtless Chads injecting dubiously sourced bottles of the so-called “Wolverine stack.” On the New York City subway, I’m haunted by Serena Williams’ Ro ads for easy GLP-1 access. Silicon Valley seems to be a parade of peptide parties. In Washington, RFK Jr. has said he’s pro-peptide and wants to expand access. In July, the FDA will meet to possibly reclassify 14 peptides so they can be eligible for compounding.
And in Hollywood, Gwyneth Paltrow — mother Goop, one of the original wellness influencers — is selling a series of peptide skincare products. Except, after some research, I’m not sure Paltrow actually understands what peptides are.
You might be wondering why I’m fixating on a Goop product in Optimizer. The short answer: While researching peptides for a forthcoming feature, I’ve descended into madness.
The longer answer is that peptide mania is central to Silicon Valley’s current fixation with longevity and metabolic optimization. As I’ve recently written, wellness trends increasingly inform new health tech features and gadgets that make up the wearable surveillance state. Peptides are also being framed on social media as an innovation that democratizes healthcare. (A similar rhetoric used to describe wearables!) It’s part of the wellness Wild West feedback loop that’s fueling Silicon Valley’s obsession with self-optimization. With that in mind, it’s worth examining how “peptide washing” has crept into various corners of the internet — and the resulting ripple effects.
While peptide shots are a relatively new trend, we’ve known about peptides and how they work for decades. They’re short chains of amino acids, which, in turn, make up proteins. In other words, building blocks for the building blocks. Because a peptide can be a chain ranging from two to roughly 100 amino acids, there are potentially trillions of peptides. Their main function is to act as messengers for various bodily functions. Some are naturally occurring and often come from the foods you eat. Others are made synthetically in a lab. The most famous ones include insulin and GLP-1 medications like semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound and Mounjaro).
What’s taking social media by storm are peptides that exist in legal gray areas. They’re not widely tested or FDA-approved drugs, and are sometimes sourced from dubious suppliers. I’ve previously written about retatrutide — another popular weight loss peptide — in Optimizer, but there’s a whole slew of others with names that sound vaguely like Star Wars droids. The most popular ones include BPC-157, TB-500, GHK-Cu, and CJC1295. These peptides are touted as biohacks for ailments ranging from fat loss and muscle growth, to faster wound healing, anti-aging, and increased energy. Essentially, everything associated with living a longer, healthier life. Lumped alongside these is NAD+, which is not a peptide but is often marketed as one. That’s partly because it’s frequently consumed as an IV drip and is thus an injectable substance.
But just because you can inject something, that doesn’t make it a peptide.
Do you have experience using peptides?
Or extremely strong feelings about this trend? I’m researching this phenomenon and I’d love to chat with you. Hit me up at victoria.song@theverge.com or on Signal at @ vicmsong.14.
NAD stands for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide. It’s a coenzyme — basically an enzyme booster — that’s found in every cell. Its primary job is to help convert food into energy. It does this by shuttling electrons from one chemical reaction to another. As you age, your NAD levels naturally decline. This can lead to an array of conditions associated with aging, like Type 2 diabetes, lower energy levels, and saggy skin. Not to get too weedsy, but the + in NAD+ simply denotes one of two versions of the NAD molecule. (The other is NADH.)
Which, finally, brings me to the Goop Youth Boost NAD+ Peptide Rich Cream and whether Gwyneth Paltrow actually knows what a peptide is.
In my research, I was looking into influential people who have spoken out about peptide injections. There’s a long list, but in Hollywood, Paltrow’s name kept popping up. Cue this recent Elle interview, in which Paltrow plays a “fuck, marry, kill” game with wellness trends.
From the get-go, the Elle article incorrectly identifies NAD+ as a peptide. Paltrow is then quoted as saying she uses NAD+ IV drips and an injectable NAD+ pen for impromptu energy boosts. She goes on to say that injectable peptides dealing with inflammation and brain health that are “being formulated for longevity” will be the next NAD+. In the fuck, marry, kill game, Paltrow is asked to choose between NAD+, B12, and peptide shots. She refuses, saying she’d marry them all.
What’s worrisome is the conflation of these treatments, even though they’re three separate things. It’s easy for the average person to read this article and think, “NAD+ is a type of peptide shot and a rich, glamorous celebrity like Gwyneth Paltrow does it, so this must be their secret to looking good.”
(For the curious: B12 is a vitamin. Supplementation can boost energy if you have a B12 deficiency, which is relatively common in the elderly, vegetarian, and vegan populations. As for NAD+, there’s considerable research interest, but limited clinical evidence for drips or supplements at the moment. I wrote a whole Optimizer newsletter about dubious peptide shots.)
From this interview, I get the sense that Paltrow knows that peptides are trendy, but she doesn’t actually admit to using any specific one. After some more digging, I found she has stated that she loves glutathione IV drips. Now, that is a peptide. However, she characterized her usage as “I love IV drips!” so, again, I’m not sure if Paltrow is aware that IV drips and peptides are not the same thing. Upon looking into her “peptide-rich” moisturizer, I’m even less certain.
Calling it a “Youth Boost NAD+ Peptide Rich Cream” would suggest this $105 moisturizer has both NAD+ and a bunch of peptides. Peruse the ingredient list, and you’ll find it doesn’t even have NAD+. It has NMN, or nicotinamide mononucleotide, a precursor (another kind of building block) for NAD+. As for its peptide content, the marketing claims the cream features “biomimetic plant-derived peptides.” Again, the list only refers to one true peptide molecule: arginine/lysine polypeptide. (A polypeptide is a longer peptide; this one supposedly helps with wrinkles.) It also appears last. In skincare, the ingredient list is generally ordered in terms of concentration. The top three to five ingredients make up the bulk of the formula. One hack is to find the so-called “one percent line”, which you can estimate from when the first preservative or fragrance appears. Given how this list is written, this is a standard moisturizer with a teeny sprinkle of a single peptide thrown in for marketing flavor. Even if there was a more potent amount, peptides are delicate molecules. Effectiveness for any topical skincare active — be it peptides or salmon sperm DNA — depends on stable formulation, concentration, whether the molecule can penetrate the skin barrier, and packaging that prevents degradation.
In any case, I reached out to Goop to clarify the peptide content in this cream. I have not heard back.
The only thing I can conclude is Paltrow isn’t afraid to try fringe wellness trends. (That and she loves an IV drip.) If someone handed her a peptide shot with the promise of energy and youth, I’d bet she’d do it. But do I think a peptide-curious person could ask her to explain the pros and cons of this trend based on her public statements? Now that’s a bet I would not take.
I could be wrong. In which case, I find her statements and her moisturizer to be disappointing given her status and influence. Case in point, the average person likely isn’t going to go through the trouble of accessing gray market peptide vials. They probably won’t be able to afford the same quality treatments as Paltrow, either. But a so-called peptide cream from a celebrity? That’s easily accessible. And in this particular case, that consumer wouldn’t be getting much of the thing they purportedly want to try.
More concerning is the flattening of any injectable as a peptide. Paltrow showing up to a podcast with an IV drip, speaking of peptides, phospholipids, and regular vitamins in a single breath? That’s confusing. It conflates relatively harmless therapies — like vitamin supplementation — with those that aren’t as well-studied. And the more influential people do this, the more regular people will too.
Peptides aren’t inherently dangerous. Injections aren’t evil. But the way peptide mania has made a more extreme, experimental trend as casual as taking a multivitamin? That feels like the slipperiest of slopes.
Follow topics and authors from this story to see more like this in your personalized homepage feed and to receive email updates.
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
A new move from the Federal Communications Commission is being framed as a national security step. But if you already have a router at home, the bigger question is simple: how long will it keep getting security updates?
The FCC recently updated its “Covered List” to include routers produced in foreign countries, which blocks new models of that covered equipment from being approved for sale in the U.S.
At the same time, the FCC made something else clear. This change does not affect routers you already own, and it does not stop retailers from continuing to sell models that were previously approved.
So nothing shuts off overnight. However, the policy introduces a new layer of uncertainty around how long some devices will continue receiving updates.
IS YOUR HOME WI-FI REALLY SAFE? THINK AGAIN
The FCC’s router move targets future approvals, not the device already running your home Wi-Fi. Existing models can still be used and sold while update rules keep evolving. (kazakova0684/Getty Images)
Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
- Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox.
- For simple, real-world ways to spot scams early and stay protected, visit CyberGuy.com – trusted by millions who watch CyberGuy on TV daily.
- Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join.
What the FCC router rule actually changed
The policy focuses on future device approvals, not the devices already in your home.
Here is what the FCC says in plain terms:
- Existing routers can still be used
- Previously approved models can still be sold and imported
- New covered models cannot receive FCC authorization
This action is tied to national security concerns about supply chain risks, not a product-by-product security test of individual routers. The key takeaway is this: your current router is not banned, recalled or disabled.
Why the FCC router rule raises update concerns
The real issue is not about using your router today. It is about future software and firmware updates. Alongside the policy change, the FCC issued a temporary waiver. That waiver allows existing routers to continue receiving updates that patch vulnerabilities, maintain functionality and ensure compatibility with operating systems. Right now, that waiver runs through at least March 1, 2027.
That date is not a guaranteed cutoff. The FCC has said it will re-evaluate the policy before then and may extend or modify the waiver. So the situation is still evolving.
How the FCC router rule could affect your router security
Your router is the gateway to everything connected in your home. Phones, laptops, smart TVs and cameras all depend on it. When a vulnerability is discovered, a software update is usually what fixes it.
If updates slow down or stop, the risk builds over time. That does not mean your router suddenly becomes unsafe. But it can become easier for attackers to exploit known flaws.
Even the FCC acknowledged this in its waiver, noting that continued updates help mitigate harm to consumers and support essential security functions. So the concern is not immediate. It is about what happens over time if support policies change.
BROWSER EXTENSIONS PUT MILLIONS OF GOOGLE CHROME USERS AT RISK
The FCC says home routers already in use can stay in use, but future support for some models now depends on waivers and conditional approvals. (deepblue4you/Getty Images)
Why the FCC is making exceptions for some routers
One important wrinkle is that the FCC has already begun granting conditional approvals for some devices. In April 2026, the agency approved certain products from NETGEAR and Adtran to continue operating under specific conditions through October 1, 2027.
That shows this is not a one-size-fits-all rule. Instead, it is an evolving policy where some devices may continue receiving support while others may face tighter restrictions.
What the FCC says about router risks and next steps
The FCC says the decision is based on national security concerns, including supply chain vulnerabilities and potential cybersecurity risks tied to certain foreign-produced equipment.
At the same time, the policy includes a path for exceptions. Companies can seek conditional approvals through federal agencies, and regulators can revisit the rules as more information becomes available.
That means the final impact will likely depend on how those decisions play out over time.
8 ways to protect your network after the FCC router rule
Until there is more clarity, a few simple steps can help keep your home network secure.
1) Check how long your router is supported
First, find your router’s exact model number. You can usually see it on a label on the bottom or back of the device. Next, go to the manufacturer’s website, such as NETGEAR, Linksys or TP-Link, and search for that model. Open its support page and look for sections like Support, Downloads, Firmware or End of Life. Then, check for a support timeline, the date of the most recent firmware update or any notes saying the product is no longer supported. If you cannot find clear information, that is a warning sign that your router may not receive regular security updates.
2) Keep your router updated
Next, log into your router settings. To do this, open a web browser and type your router’s IP address into the address bar. Common ones include 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1. Then sign in using your admin username and password. Once you are in, look for sections labeled Firmware, Software Update or Administration. Check for available updates and install them if needed. If your router supports automatic updates, turn that on. This helps close security gaps quickly without you having to check manually. If you are not sure where to find these settings, you can also use your router’s mobile app if it has one, which often makes updates easier.
GET FASTER WI-FI WITH THESE SIMPLE HOME FIXES
Security updates remain the key protection for home routers as the FCC blocks new authorizations for covered foreign-produced models. (Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)
3) Plan ahead for replacement
If your router is already a few years old, start planning for a replacement. Do not wait until updates stop. Instead, look for models with clearly stated support timelines. Check out our picks for the Top Routers for best security at cyberguy.com
4) Secure your devices as a backup layer
Your router is the first line of defense. However, your devices matter too. Keep your phone, computer and tablet updated. Also, use strong antivirus software to help catch threats that slip through. Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com
5) Review connected devices
From time to time, check what is connected to your network. You can do this in your router settings under “Connected Devices” or in your router’s app. If you see anything unfamiliar, remove it right away.
6) Use strong passwords
Create a strong Wi-Fi password and a separate admin password for your router. Avoid using default credentials. A password manager can help you generate and store secure logins. Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2026 at Cyberguy.com
7) Turn off remote access
First, log into your router settings using a web browser. Type your router’s IP address, such as 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1, into the address bar and sign in with your admin credentials. Next, look for settings labeled Remote Access, Remote Management, Web Access from WAN, or Cloud Access. These are often found under sections like Advanced, Administration or Security. Then, turn that setting off and save your changes. This prevents your router from being accessed from outside your home network. If you cannot find the option, check your router’s mobile app or the manufacturer’s support page. Some routers hide this setting or disable it by default.
8) Restart your router regularly
First, unplug your router from the power outlet. Wait about 30 seconds to let it fully shut down. Next, plug it back in and wait a few minutes for it to reconnect to the internet. You can also restart your router through its settings. Log in, then look for options like Reboot or Restart under sections such as Administration or System. Doing this every few weeks can help apply updates and clear temporary issues that may affect performance or security. If your router supports scheduled reboots, you can turn that on to automate the process.
Kurt’s key takeaway
This is not a situation where your internet suddenly becomes unsafe. There is no recall. There is no shutdown. Your router will not stop working on a specific date. However, there is a new question mark that did not exist before. The Federal Communications Commission has created a system where future updates for some devices could depend on how the rules evolve. That puts more importance on something most people rarely think about: how long their router will stay supported. For now, you still have time. The current waiver runs into 2027, and regulators have signaled they may revisit the policy before then. The smart move is simple. Know what you own, keep it updated and stay aware as this situation develops.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP
As policies around your home tech change, how much responsibility should fall on regulators versus the companies that keep your devices updated? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com
Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
- Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox.
- For simple, real-world ways to spot scams early and stay protected, visit CyberGuy.com – trusted by millions who watch CyberGuy on TV daily.
- Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join.
Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
On or about January 6, 2026, for example, VAN DYKE asked Polymarket to delete his Polymarket account, falsely claiming that he had lost access to the email address to which the account had been associated. That same day, VAN DYKE changed the email registered to his cryptocurrency exchange account to an email address that was not subscribed to in his name, which email address was created on or about December 14., 2025.
-
Michigan4 seconds agoPodcast: Michigan basketball — recapping an elite season, the portal, who starts at the ‘3,’ more
-
Massachusetts6 minutes agoNew Mass. rideshare safety rules would boost driver background checks and more
-
Minnesota12 minutes agoLocked capitol doors, more security funds are new normal after Minnesota assassination
-
Mississippi18 minutes agoMississippi powered Artemis II
-
Missouri24 minutes agoKansas City, Missouri, police launch homicide investigation, after shooting at 55th and Prospect
-
Montana30 minutes agoEmergency declared as supply chain disruptions hit farms
-
Nebraska36 minutes agoToday in History – April 24: Statue added to top of Nebraska Capitol
-
Nevada42 minutes agoHenderson mental health professionals to be dispatched through 988