Technology

Is your smartphone spying on you without you even knowing it?

Published

2 years ago

April 14, 2024

Is your smartphone spying on you without you even knowing it?

Researchers at MIT’s Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL) recently revealed a startling new privacy threat.

Our smartphones’ ambient light sensors might be turned into makeshift cameras.

A woman on her iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

From brightness adjustment to privacy invasion

Ambient light sensors are commonplace in smartphones, primarily used to adjust screen brightness according to environmental lighting. However, CSAIL researchers have demonstrated that these sensors could potentially be repurposed to capture images of a user’s surroundings.

By employing a computational imaging algorithm, they managed to recover environmental images from the perspective of the phone’s screen, utilizing only the light intensity data from these sensors.

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Two people looking at their iPhones (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

A comprehensive privacy threat

The implications of this discovery are far-reaching.

“Ambient light sensors are tiny devices deployed in almost all portable devices and screens that surround us in our daily lives,” notes Princeton University professor Felix Heide. The study underscores a privacy threat that spans a broad spectrum of devices, previously underestimated in its potential impact.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

A person on a cell phone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Gesture interception and interaction capture

Beyond static images, the study suggests that ambient light sensors could intercept user gestures, like swiping and sliding, capturing interactions with phones during activities such as video watching. This capability challenges the belief that ambient light sensors are harmless in terms of private data exposure.

An iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

MORE: BEST WAY TO PROTECT YOUR DEVICES FROM GETTING HACKED

The call for tighter permissions

Yang Liu, a Ph.D. candidate at MIT EECS and CSAIL, warns that ambient light sensors, in conjunction with display screens, can capture our actions without consent, posing significant privacy risks. The researchers urge operating system developers to tighten permissions for these sensors, reducing their precision and sampling rate.

Person on an iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Looking ahead: Designing for privacy

To mitigate these security concerns, the study proposes granting users control over ambient light sensor permissions akin to camera permissions. Additionally, future device designs might include ambient light sensors positioned away from the user, such as on the side of the device, to prevent unauthorized visual data capture.

While the study’s findings prompt a reevaluation of sensor permissions and design, it’s equally important to recognize the broader context of smartphone security vulnerabilities. Let’s delve into the realm of spyware, another pressing concern where even the most vigilant users can find themselves compromised.

A woman talking on her cell phone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Understanding spyware vulnerability on your smartphone

You might not realize it, but your phone could be more exposed to spyware than you think. Just a small slip-up while you’re browsing the web, and you could accidentally invite a cyber-spy into your life. If you’re an Android user, be extra cautious. Your phone is usually more at risk than iPhones.

But here’s the kicker. Even if you’re super careful, you’re not totally out of the woods. If you don’t update your phone’s software regularly or if you’ve jailbroken it, you’re playing with fire. Here are some telltale signs of spyware on your phone.

A woman on her smartphone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson))

MORE: SNEAKY SPYWARE IS AFTER YOUR MOST SENSITIVE DATA

The telltale sign of spyware on your phone

Is your phone acting strange? Here are the telltale signs of spyware on your device.

Unusual noises: Beeping, faint voices or static during calls might not just be network issues. They could signal an eavesdropping attempt.

Performance lags: If your phone suddenly slows down or the battery drains rapidly, spyware might be hogging your resources.

Sensors activate unexpectedly: Modern smartphones signal when cameras and mics are in use. If this happens sans your input, investigate promptly.

Mysterious apps and files: New, unrecognizable apps or files might indicate that your phone’s security has been breached.

Excessive pop-ups and spam: An uptick in ads, error messages or scam texts may be adware, a common companion to spyware.

Overheating issues: Like performance lags, overheating can suggest that spyware is overworking your phone’s internals.

Smartphone on the seat of a vehicle (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

MORE: MALICIOUS ANDROID SPYWARE DETECTED IN OVER 100 POPULAR APPS

Several steps you can take to protect yourself from spyware on your smartphone

1. Have good antivirus software: Yes, antivirus protection can help detect and disable spyware on your smartphone. The best way to protect yourself from clicking malicious links that install malware that may get access to your private information is to have antivirus protection installed on all your devices. This can also alert you of any phishing emails or ransomware scams. Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices.

2. Remove unfamiliar apps and files: If you suspect your phone has been hacked, promptly remove any unfamiliar apps.

3. Restart your device: Rebooting your phone can sometimes stop spyware from running.

4. Update to the latest software: As mentioned before, updates can patch vulnerabilities.

5. Be cautious when browsing: Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading files from untrusted sources.

6. Update your phone regularly: Updates often include security patches that can help protect your device from spyware and other vulnerabilities.

7. Don’t jailbreak your phone: Jailbreaking removes security restrictions that can make your phone more susceptible to spyware.

8. Look for unusual activity: This includes unusual noises during calls, performance lags, unexpected sensor activation, mysterious apps or files, excessive pop-ups and overheating.

9. Delete unwanted or unused apps: Some apps use your device’s camera and microphone and collect your data even while it is not in use. Getting rid of unused apps frees up storage space on your phone and declutters your lock screen. It can also eliminate one more potential app that might be collecting information from you unknowingly.

On an iPhone:

Hard press the app icon of the app you want to delete
Select Remove App
You’ll be prompted to confirm your decision in the next window by tapping Delete App
Then again by tapping Delete

 On an Android:

Go to the Google Play Store app
At the top right, tap the Profile icon
Select Manage apps & devices, click Manage
Select name of the app you want to delete
Select Uninstall

Android settings may vary based on the manufacturer’s settings.

While it may seem like an extra effort to review and change your apps’ permission settings, it’ll give you more peace of mind knowing which apps have access to specific device functions and data. Most devices now have a dedicated part of their settings to view which apps are using the different functions of your phone and what data it has access to.

10. Changing camera settings: It may seem simple to just give access to your camera to certain apps. This way, you can easily use the camera function whenever you pull up the app to use. There are, however, apps that do not need access to your camera to function. Does your navigation app need access to your camera even when it is not in use? Take back control of your camera by using the steps below to find out which apps have access to your camera and turn it on or off.

On an iPhone:

Go to Settings
Scroll down and select Privacy or Privacy & Security
Select Camera
You can see which apps have access to your camera. Of course, you can leave the apps where it makes sense to have access to your camera toggle on. For apps that do not, you can toggle access off (it will be grayed out)

On an Android:

Android settings may vary based on the manufacturer’s settings.

Open Settings
Select Apps
Select the app you want to change (If you can’t find it, select ‘See all apps’)
Select Permissions to view if you allowed or denied any permissions for the app
To change a permission setting, select it, then choose Allow only while using the app, Ask everytime or Don’t allow

11. Restrict camera and microphone permissions: Restricting camera and microphone permissions can make it more difficult for spyware to access these features.

On an iPhone:

Go to Settings
Scroll down and select Privacy or Privacy & Security
Select Microphone
You can see which apps have access to your microphone. Of course, you can leave the apps where it makes sense to have access to your microphone toggle on. For apps that do not, you can toggle access off (it will be grayed out)

On an Android:

Android settings may vary based on the manufacturer’s settings.

Open Settings
Select Apps
Select the app you want to change (If you can’t find it, select ‘See all apps’)
Select Permissions to view if you allowed or denied any permissions for the app
To change a permission setting, select it, then choose Allow only while using the app, Ask everytime or Don’t allow

MORE: NEWLY IPHONE SPYWARE TOOL SOLD TO GOVERNMENTS FOR TARGETED SURVEILLANCE

Kurt’s key takeaways

In a world where our smartphones are virtual extensions of ourselves, the discoveries at MIT’s CSAIL cast a new light on what we often take for granted. As we navigate the delicate balance between convenience and privacy, it’s clear that the devices we depend on daily harbor capabilities far beyond their intended use, prompting a necessary conversation on security, awareness and the evolving landscape of digital privacy.

With the revelation that devices we use daily, like smartphones, can be exploited in ways that compromise our privacy — such as converting ambient light sensors into makeshift cameras — what steps do you believe technology companies and governments should take to protect personal privacy? 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

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Technology

Brendan Carr is a dummy

Published

3 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Press Room

All year on The Vergecast, we’ve been tracking the many bizarre and problematic actions of FCC Chairman Brendan Carr. There has been a lot to discuss! Then, this week, ahead of one of our last episodes of the year, Carr appeared in front of the Senate Commerce Committee and spent three hours explaining how he thinks about his job, the FCC, and the state of online communication and entertainment. It was a lot.

On this episode of The Vergecast, we begin with a dissection of Carr’s testimony, his threats against broadcasters, and the ways in which he’s using old ideas about content delivery to get his political way. Nilay and David walk through some of Carr’s most important quotes, explain the history of broadband regulation, and look ahead to how Carr might bring these same tactics to internet regulation next year.

Also, an important housekeeping note: The Vergecast will be live at CES! We’ll be at the Brooklyn Bowl in Las Vegas, at 3:30PM on Wednesday, January 7th. There will be podcasting, and hanging out, and bowling. It’s going to be great, and if you’re going to be in Vegas we’d love to see you there.

Until then, if you want to know more about everything we discuss in this episode, here are some links to get you started, first on Brendan Carr:

And in the streaming wars:

And in the lightning round:

Technology

AI photo match reunites Texas woman with lost cat after 103 days

Published

4 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Press Room

AI photo match reunites Texas woman with lost cat after 103 days

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Holiday gatherings and year-end travel often lead to a spike in missing pets. Doors open more often, routines shift and animals can slip outside in a moment of confusion.

New Year’s Eve creates loud fireworks, and shelters report some of their busiest nights of the entire year. Amid all that, one Texas family just experienced a heartwarming reunion thanks to an AI photo matching on Petco Love Lost.

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FIND A LOST PHONE THAT IS OFF OR DEAD

An AI photo-matching on Petco Love Lost helped reunite a Texas family with their missing cat after 103 days. (ULISES RUIZ/AFP via Getty Images)

How AI photo matching kept the search going

Pam’s 11-year-old indoor cat, Grayson, had never been outside alone. She believes he slipped out while she unloaded groceries at their home in Plano, Texas. The moment she realized he was gone, she acted fast.

She said, “We went up and down the streets day and night. We went online in the neighborhood and on Love Lost. We put up flyers all over the neighborhood. Friends and neighbors were looking for him. I went to the animal shelter, posted him there, and went every day for over a month, hoping to find him.”

Pam uploaded Grayson’s photo to Petco Love Lost right away. She checked her daily match alerts and hoped she would see his familiar face pop up. She told CyberGuy, “I received match alerts almost every day from Lost Love, but never saw Grayson. His profile had been on their site for over 90 days.”

The moment everything changed

Missy, a nearby resident, spotted a thin cat in an alley near her home. She brought him inside, took a picture of him and then turned to Love Lost to see if anyone had reported a missing cat like him.

Missy explained how simple the process felt. “I used Lost Love to reunite them,” she said. “I uploaded a photo of the cat that we found, and it was matched through AI with the photo that the owner uploaded.”

She soon received an AI match alert and learned that the cross street Grayson’s owner, Pam, had listed in her lost post was only a mile from her home. Missy contacted Pam right away.

That message changed everything. “I am sure that if we had not posted his picture and enabled the ability to match the images, we would never have known what happened to Grayson,” Pam said. “And we would not have connected with Missy.”

AI TECH HELPS A SENIOR REUNITE WITH HER CAT AFTER 11 DAYS

Grayson, an indoor cat from Plano, Texas, was finally found thanks to a neighbor who uploaded his photo to an AI search tool. (DANIEL PERRON/Hans Lucas/AFP via Getty Images)

A long road for an aging cat

Grayson is almost 12 and has never lived outdoors. That made this reunion feel even more emotional, Pam said.

“I am still amazed at Grayson’s journey,” she added. “I look at him and cannot believe he made it through those 103 days. He is almost 12 years old, so he is not a young kitty.”

Pam said she still thinks about what those months were like for him. “[I] guess I will always wonder where he was and how many stops he made before he reached Missy’s loving home,” she said. “He must have known she would take care of him. It takes a special person to take the time to reunite a beloved pet with their family. Missy and her family went above and beyond to reunite us with Grayson.”

Why pet tech matters during the holidays

This season brings joy but also risks for pets. Visitors, travel and loud celebrations create more chances for animals to slip out or feel spooked. Tools like AI photo matching help families act fast when a pet goes missing. Love Lost connects shelters and neighbors in one place so that people like Pam and Missy can find each other.

What to do if your pet goes missing

Losing a pet can feel overwhelming, but taking fast action helps. These steps guide you through what to do right away.

1) Search your home and neighborhood right away

Look in closets, garages and under furniture. Walk your street and ask neighbors to check yards and sheds.

2) Upload your pet’s photo to Petco Love Lost

Take a clear photo and post it on the site. AI photo matching alerts you when a possible match appears. It also helps others contact you fast.

3) Visit your local shelters in person

Shelters update kennels throughout the day. Staff can guide you and help flag your pet’s profile. Go often until you get updates.

4) Post on local community groups

Use neighborhood apps, local Facebook groups and community forums. Include your pet’s photo, last known location and your contact info.

5) Put up flyers right away

Use a large photo and simple details. Place flyers at busy intersections and near schools, parks and businesses.

6) Contact your pet’s microchip registry

If your pet is microchipped, call the registry or log in to your account. Make sure the chip is registered to you, update your contact info and mark your pet as missing so shelters and vets can reach you fast.

7) Stay consistent with your search

Check Love Lost alerts often. Visit shelters and follow up on every lead. Persistence made the difference for Pam and Grayson.

LOST DOGS ON FOURTH OF JULY: HOW TO KEEP YOUR PET SAFE

A pet owner is seen cradling a cat on their lap. (Diego Herrera Carcedo/Anadolu via Getty Images)

How AirTags can help you find a lost pet faster

While tools like AI photo matching are invaluable after a pet goes missing, prevention and real-time tracking can make an enormous difference during the first critical hours. That’s where Apple AirTags come in. An AirTag isn’t a GPS tracker, but it can still be a powerful recovery tool when used correctly. When attached securely to your pet’s collar, an AirTag uses Apple’s vast Find My network. That network consists of hundreds of millions of nearby iPhones, iPads and Macs that can anonymously and securely relay the AirTag’s location back to you.

If your pet wanders into a neighborhood, apartment complex or busy area, the chances are high that another Apple device will pass nearby and update the location automatically. You won’t know who helped, and they won’t know it was them, but the location can show up on your map within minutes. For indoor cats or dogs that don’t usually roam far, this can be especially helpful. Even a rough location can narrow your search area and save precious time.

Important limits to know: AirTags work best in populated areas. They rely on nearby Apple devices, so coverage may be limited in rural or remote locations. They also don’t update continuously like true GPS pet trackers. That’s why AirTags should be seen as a backup layer, not a replacement for microchipping or dedicated pet trackers.

How to use an AirTag safely with pets

Use a secure, pet-specific AirTag holder that won’t break easily.
Attach it to a breakaway collar for cats and dogs to reduce injury risk.
Make sure Find My notifications are turned on so you get alerts quickly.
Combine it with microchipping and ID tags for the best protection.

Used together, these tools give you multiple ways to reconnect with your pet, whether minutes or months have passed.

For a list of the best pet trackers, go to Cyberguy.com and search “best pet trackers.”

Take my quiz: How safe is your online security?

Think your devices and data are truly protected? Take this quick quiz to see where your digital habits stand. From passwords to Wi-Fi settings, you’ll get a personalized breakdown of what you’re doing right and what needs improvement. Take my Quiz here: Cyberguy.com

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Grayson’s reunion is a reminder that tech works best when caring people put it to use. AI matched the photos, but Missy took action, and Pam never stopped looking. Their persistence helped a senior cat get home after a long and risky journey.

If your pet went missing today, would you know the first step to bring them home fast? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

Technology

TikTok ban: all the news on the app’s shutdown and return in the US

Published

16 hours ago

December 18, 2025

Press Room

TikTok ban: all the news on the app’s shutdown and return in the US

After briefly going dark in the US to comply with the divest-or-ban law targeting ByteDance that went into effect on January 19th, TikTok quickly came back online. It eventually reappeared in the App Store and Google Play as negotiations between the US and China continued, and Donald Trump continued to sign extensions directing officials not to apply the law’s penalties.

Finally, in mid-December, TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew told employees that the agreements to create TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC, which includes Oracle, Silver Lake, and MGX as part owners, have been signed, and the deal is expected to close on January 22nd, 2026. His letter said that for users in the US, the new joint venture will oversee data protection, the security of a newly-retrained algorithm, content moderation, and the deployment of the US app and platform.