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How to tell if your iPad has been hacked

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How to tell if your iPad has been hacked

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Apple’s iPad has a strong reputation for security. Thanks to the system architecture of iOS, a non-jailbroken iPad isn’t susceptible to typical viruses or malware infections. However, that doesn’t mean it’s completely safe from every threat. As with any computer, there are still vulnerabilities that determined hackers can exploit.

iPads are generally secure devices, but it’s still possible for hackers to gain access, so knowing the warning signs of a hacked iPad can help you act quickly to protect your data. Moreover, an iPad often contains a lot of personal information about you and your family, so if it’s ever hacked, it can be quite alarming.

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An Apple iPad (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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How to tell if your iPad has been hacked

Be on the lookout for these signs that could indicate your iPad’s security has been compromised:

1) iPad running slow? It could be a sign of malware

If your iPad suddenly feels more like a sluggish turtle than the speedy device it used to be, that’s a warning sign. When a device is hacked, malicious software might be running in the background, using up memory and processing power. This can make apps slow to open, cause lagging or freezing and even lead to more frequent crashes. You might also notice the battery draining much faster than usual along with the slowdown, since unwanted software can chew through battery life while it secretly runs in the background.

2) Pop-up ads on iPad? You might have adware or a virus

A sudden flood of pop-up ads or strange messages on your iPad screen is a big red flag. Under normal circumstances, iPads should not bombard you with random pop-ups, especially outside of safe apps or websites. If you start seeing lots of unsolicited ads or “Your iPad is hacked!” alerts popping up, it could mean an adware program or scam has found its way onto the device. These pop-ups might try to trick you or your kids into clicking links or downloading something harmful, so they’re not just annoying, they’re dangerous signs that something is wrong.

How to tell if your iPad has been hacked

An Apple iPad (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

HOW TO PROTECT AN IPHONE & IPAD FROM MALWARE 2025

3) Unusual data usage on iPad? Watch for these network hacking signs

Keep an eye on how the iPad is using the internet. An unusual spike in data usage or constant network activity (even when no one is actively using the iPad) might indicate the device is secretly sending or receiving information without your permission. For example, if your data plan suddenly maxes out or you notice the Wi-Fi icon flickering with activity when the iPad is idle, it could be a sign that a hacker’s software is communicating in the background. Such suspicious network activity is concerning because it suggests someone else might be remotely accessing the iPad or siphoning off personal data.

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4) iPad hacked? Look for these Apple ID account changes

One clear warning sign is finding changes to your Apple account that you didn’t make. If your Apple ID password was changed without your knowledge or you receive security alerts about logins you never did, be wary; a hacker may have gained access to your account.

You might also discover that account details or settings (like your recovery email or trusted phone number) have been altered. Another clue is seeing unfamiliar charges or App Store purchases on your Apple ID bill, since unauthorized purchases or subscriptions often mean that someone has compromised your account and is using it maliciously.

How to tell if your iPad has been hacked

An Apple iPad (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

BEST VPNS FOR IPHONES & IPADS – CYBERGUY PICKS 2025

Top tips to protect your iPad from hackers and malware

If you suspect your iPad has been hacked, taking immediate action can secure your device and give you peace of mind. Here are a few basic steps to help you respond:

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1) Reset your passwords: Change your Apple ID password right away (and any other important account passwords used on the iPad) to lock out any intruders. Using a strong password (think long, random and unique to each account) greatly reduces that risk. A password manager can help you generate and store complex passwords so you don’t have to remember them all yourself. Get more details about my best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 here.

2) Remove unfamiliar apps: Check the iPad for any apps you or your child didn’t install. If you find an unknown app or a suspicious profile, delete it immediately. This helps eliminate any malicious programs the hacker may have added. To do this, open Settings, tap General iPad Storage, scroll to find the unfamiliar app, tap it, then tap Delete App and confirm.

3) Update iOS: Make sure the iPad is running the latest version of iPadOS. Apple frequently releases security updates to fix vulnerabilities, so updating the software can shut down any loopholes the hacker might have used. Turning on automatic updates is a good idea to stay protected going forward.

4) Enable two-factor authentication: If you haven’t already, turn on two-factor authentication for your Apple ID account. This feature adds an extra verification step (like a code sent to your phone) whenever someone tries to sign in, which can stop hackers in their tracks even if they somehow know your password. It’s an excellent safeguard to prevent unauthorized access.

5) Have strong antivirus protection on all devices: Malware, spyware and viruses can run quietly in the background or compromise enough data before it is discovered. While not being hacked in the first place is the best position to be in, it is worse to give access to your iPad’s data to a hacker for a prolonged period of time. That’s why having strong antivirus software running consistently in the background of your device is a great way to prevent compromises from happening in the first place. Best antivirus security software and apps to protect you.

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Kurt’s key takeaway

It’s important to remember that many of these symptoms can have innocent explanations, so don’t panic at the first sign of trouble. For example, a new iOS update or a heavy app can temporarily slow down your iPad’s performance, so one isolated issue doesn’t always mean you’ve been hacked. However, if you notice multiple warning signs at the same time or anything that just doesn’t feel right, it’s best to act quickly and err on the side of caution.

Do you think Apple should do more to help users spot and respond to potential hacks? Let us know your experience or questions by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact. Your story could help someone else stay safe.

For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

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Apple’s latest AirPods are already on sale for $99 before Prime Day

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Apple’s latest AirPods are already on sale for  before Prime Day

Amazon Prime Day kicks off tomorrow, July 8th, but you don’t have to wait until then to pick up Apple’s latest pair of AirPods at a discount. Right now, the AirPods 4 are available for around $99 ($30 off) at Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart, while the AirPods 4 with noise cancellation are going for around $149 ($30 off) at Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart. That’s within $10 of the lowest price we’ve seen on the ANC model and matches the lowest price to date on the base pair.

Both versions of Apple’s current-gen earbuds feature shorter stems and larger buds than previous models, allowing them to accommodate a broader range of ear shapes. The open-style earbuds use a hard plastic body that doesn’t create a tight seal inside your ear, which means they sacrifice some bass response compared to gummy-tipped earbuds. Hardshell earbuds won’t create pressure in your ear, though, which can feel uncomfortable after listening to music for a few hours.

Overall, the fourth-gen AirPods sound better than previous models due to a custom amplifier and new acoustic architecture. Audio quality is somewhat subjective and largely depends on how the music was recorded, mixed, and mastered; however, former Verge staffer Chris Welch noted in his review that he was pleased with the sound of Apple’s latest pair of wireless earbuds. If you’re upgrading from an older pair, you’ll notice a difference.

The AirPods 4 run on Apple’s H2 chip, which is required for Voice Isolation, a feature that reduces background noise and amplifies the volume of your voice during calls. If you’re using an iPhone, you can say “Hey Siri” to evoke Apple’s smart assistant to place calls, hear and return messages, and play music. You can also locate the earbuds using the Find My app on Apple devices if they’re misplaced.

The entry-level model can last up to five hours on a single charge and can be fully charged five times using the included USB-C charging case (the ANC model also offers wireless charging). Both pairs of earbuds are also IP54-rated for dust, sweat, and water resistance, ensuring you can wear them safely during workouts. Needless to say, the AirPods 4 are excellent earbuds at their current price, whether you opt for the model with active noise cancellation or not.

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How micro-robots may soon treat your sinus infections

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How micro-robots may soon treat your sinus infections

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

A breakthrough in medical technology could soon change how sinus infections are treated. Scientists have created micro-robots for sinus infection treatment that can enter the nasal cavity, eliminate bacteria directly at the source, and exit without harming surrounding tissue. This drug-free, targeted approach may reduce our dependence on antibiotics.

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A woman with a sinus infection. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What are micro-robots for sinus infection treatment?

These microscopic robots are smaller than a speck of dust. They are made of magnetic particles enhanced with copper atoms. Doctors insert them through a narrow duct in the nostril. Once inside, the micro-robots are guided by magnetic fields to reach the infected area.

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At that point, a fiber optic light heats the particles and triggers a chemical reaction. This reaction breaks through thick mucus and destroys harmful bacteria at the infection site. As a result, treatment becomes faster, more precise, and far less invasive.

This latest advancement comes from a collaboration of researchers at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, along with universities in Guangxi, Shenzhen, Jiangsu, Yangzhou, and Macau. Their work, published in “Science Robotics,” has helped move micro-robotic medical technology closer to real-world applications. 

Why use micro-robots instead of antibiotics?

Traditional antibiotics circulate throughout the entire body. In contrast, micro-robots target only the infected area. This reduces side effects and lowers the risk of antibiotic resistance. Furthermore, patients may recover faster because the treatment goes straight to the source.

A woman with a sinus infection.

A woman with a sinus infection. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Are micro-robots safe?

So far, animal trials have shown promising results. Micro-robots successfully cleared infections in pig sinuses and live rabbits, without causing tissue damage. However, scientists still need to ensure that every robot exits the body after treatment. Leftover particles could pose long-term risks.

In addition, public acceptance remains a challenge. The idea of tiny machines inside the body makes some people uncomfortable. Nevertheless, experts believe those fears will fade over time.

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What other uses are possible?

Researchers are already exploring how micro-robots could treat infections in the bladder, stomach, intestines, and bloodstream. Several teams around the world are working to make the technology more advanced and adaptable for deep internal use. If successful, these innovations could revolutionize the way we fight bacteria in the human body.

A doctor examining a woman with a sinus infection.

A doctor examining a woman with a sinus infection. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Kurt’s key takeaways

The rise of micro-robots for sinus infection treatment marks a major shift in medical care. By offering precise, non-invasive therapy without antibiotics, this method could redefine how infections are treated. With continued research and testing, these tiny tools may soon become powerful allies in modern medicine.

Would you let microscopic robots crawl through your sinuses if it meant never needing antibiotics again? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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.

Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

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Cyberpunk Edgerunners 2 will be even sadder and bloodier

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Cyberpunk Edgerunners 2 will be even sadder and bloodier

The new season will be directed by Kai Ikarashi, who also directed episode six in the first season, “Girl on Fire.” There’s no word yet on when Cyberpunk: Edgerunners 2 will premiere, but they did show off this new poster artwork. A trailer will be shown later tonight during a panel at 8:30PM PT for the animation studio, Trigger.

Showrunner and writer Bartosz Sztybor said during Friday’s panel that for season one, “I just wanted to make the whole world sad… when people are sad, I’m a bit happy,” and that this new 10-episode season will be “…of course, sadder, but it will be also darker, more bloody, and more raw.”

A brief summary of the follow-up series tells fans what to expect following the end of David’s story in season one:

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners 2 presents a new standalone 10-episode story from the world of Cyberpunk 2077— a raw chronicle of redemption and revenge. In a city that thrives in the spotlight of violence, one question remains: when the world is blinded by spectacle, what extremes do you have to go to make your story matter?

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