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New email scam uses hidden characters to slip past filters

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New email scam uses hidden characters to slip past filters

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Cybercriminals keep finding new angles to get your attention, and email remains one of their favorite tools. Over the years, you have probably seen everything from fake courier notices to AI-generated scams that feel surprisingly polished. Filters have improved, but attackers have learned to adapt. The latest technique takes aim at something you rarely think about: the subject line itself. Researchers have found a method that hides tiny, invisible characters inside the subject so automated systems fail to flag the message. It sounds subtle, but it is quickly becoming a serious problem.

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NEW SCAM SENDS FAKE MICROSOFT 365 LOGIN PAGES

Cybercriminals are using invisible Unicode characters to disguise phishing email subject lines, allowing dangerous scams to slip past filters. (Photo by Donato Fasano/Getty Images)

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How the new trick works

Researchers recently uncovered phishing campaigns that embed soft hyphens between every letter of an email subject. These are invisible Unicode characters that normally help with text formatting. They do not show up in your inbox, but they completely throw off keyword-based filters. Attackers use MIME encoded-word formatting to slip these characters into the subject. By encoding it in UTF-8 and Base64, they can weave these hidden characters through the entire phrase.

One analyzed email decoded to “Your Password is About to Expire” with a soft hyphen tucked between every character. To you, it looks normal. To a security filter, it looks scrambled, with no clear keyword to match. The attackers then use the same trick in the body of the email, so both layers slide through detection. The link leads to a fake login page sitting on a compromised domain, designed to harvest your credentials.

If you have ever tried spotting a phishing email, this one still follows the usual script. It builds urgency, claims something is about to expire and points you to a login page. The difference is in how neatly it dodges the filters you trust.

Why this phishing technique is super dangerous

Most phishing filters rely on pattern recognition. They look for suspicious words, common phrases and structure. They also scan for known malicious domains. By splitting every character with invisible symbols, attackers break up these patterns. The text becomes readable for you but unreadable for automated systems. This creates a quiet loophole where old phishing templates suddenly become effective again.

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The worrying part is how easy this method is to copy. The tools needed to encode these messages are widely available. Attackers can automate the process and churn out bulk campaigns with little extra effort. Since the characters are invisible in most email clients, even tech-savvy users do not notice anything odd at first glance.

Security researchers point out that this method has appeared in email bodies for years, but using it in the subject line is less common. That makes it harder for existing filters to catch. Subject lines also play a key role in shaping your first impression. If the subject looks familiar and urgent, you are more likely to open the email, which gives the attacker a head start.

How to spot a phishing email before you click

Phishing emails often look legitimate, but the links inside them tell a different story. Scammers hide dangerous URLs behind familiar-looking text, hoping you will click without checking. One safe way to preview a link is by using a private email service that shows the real destination before your browser loads it.

Our top-rated private email provider recommendation includes malicious link protection that reveals full URLs before opening them. This gives you a clear view of where a link leads before anything can harm your device. It also offers strong privacy features like no ads, no tracking, encrypted messages and unlimited disposable aliases.

For recommendations on private and secure email providers, visit Cyberguy.com

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PAYROLL SCAM HITS US UNIVERSITIES AS PHISHING WAVE TRICKS STAFF

A new phishing method hides soft hyphens inside subject lines, scrambling keyword detection while appearing normal to users. (Photo by Silas Stein/picture alliance via Getty Images)

9 steps you can take to protect yourself from this phishing scam

You do not need to become a security expert to stay safe. A few habits, paired with the right tools, can shut down most phishing attempts before they have a chance to work.

1) Use a password manager

A password manager helps you create strong, unique passwords for every account. Even if a phishing email fools you, the attacker cannot use your password elsewhere because each one is different. Most password managers also warn you when a site looks suspicious.

Next, see if your email has been exposed in past breaches. Our #1 password manager (see Cyberguy.com) 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. 

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Check out the best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 at Cyberguy.com.

2) Enable two-factor authentication

Turning on 2FA adds a second step to your login process. Even if someone steals your password, they still need the verification code on your phone. This stops most phishing attempts from going any further.

3) Install a reliable antivirus software

Strong antivirus software does more than scan for malware. Many can flag unsafe pages, block suspicious redirects and warn you before you enter your details on a fake login page. It is a simple layer of protection that helps a lot when an email slips past filters.

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 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.

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4) Limit your personal data online

Attackers often tailor phishing messages using information they find about you. Reducing your digital footprint makes it harder for them to craft emails that feel convincing. You can use personal data removal services to clean up exposed details and old database leaks.

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.

AI FLAW LEAKED GMAIL DATA BEFORE OPENAI PATCH

Researchers warn that attackers are bypassing email defenses by manipulating encoded subject lines with unseen characters. (Photo by Lisa Forster/picture alliance via Getty Images)

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.

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Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web: Cyberguy.com

5) Check sender details carefully

Do not rely on the display name. Always check the full email address. Attackers often tweak domain names by a single letter or symbol. If something feels off, open the site manually instead of clicking any link inside the email.

6) Never reset passwords through email links

If you get an email claiming your password will expire, do not click the link. Go to the website directly and check your account settings. Phishing emails rely on urgency. Slowing down and confirming the issue yourself removes that pressure.

7) Keep your software and browser updated

Updates often include security fixes that help block malicious scripts and unsafe redirects. Attackers take advantage of older systems because they are easier to trick. Staying updated keeps you ahead of known weaknesses.

8) Turn on advanced spam filtering or “strict” filtering

Many email providers (Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo) allow you to tighten spam filtering settings. This won’t catch every soft-hyphen scam, but it improves your odds and reduces risky emails overall.

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9) Use a browser with anti-phishing protection

Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Brave, and Edge all include anti-phishing checks. This adds another safety net if you accidentally click a bad link.

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Kurt’s key takeaway

Phishing attacks are changing fast, and tricks like invisible characters show how creative attackers are getting. It’s safe to say filters and scanners are also improving, but they cannot catch everything, especially when the text they see is not the same as what you see. Staying safe comes down to a mix of good habits, the right tools, and a little skepticism whenever an email pushes you to act quickly. If you slow down, double-check the details, and follow the steps that strengthen your accounts, you make it much harder for anyone to fool you.

Do you trust your email filters, or do you double-check suspicious messages yourself? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com.  All rights reserved.

Technology

Dyson’s powerful 360 Vis Nav robovac is down to $279.99 for a limited time

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Dyson’s powerful 360 Vis Nav robovac is down to 9.99 for a limited time

If you’re tired of running your vacuum multiple times just to get the dirt and debris out of the carpets in your living room, Dyson’s 360 Vis Nav is worth a look. It’s one of the more powerful robot vacuums currently available, and now through May 11th (or while supplies last), it’s on sale at Woot for an all-time low of $279.99 ($919 off) with a full two-year warranty.

The last-gen 360 Vis Nav offers a whopping 65 air watts of suction, allowing it to pull dirt, dust, and pet hair from carpets impressively well. In her brief time testing the robovac, my colleague Jennifer Pattison Tuohy said the Dyson “demolished a pile of dry oatmeal in seconds,” adding that she briefly worried it might even suck up the tassels on her large rug (it didn’t). By comparison, many robot vacuums — including Dyson’s new $1,200 Spot + Scrub AI — require multiple passes to fully eradicate the same kind of mess on your floor.

What’s more, the robovac’s small, D-shaped design and the location of its ultra-fluffy brush allow it to dig into edges and corners more effectively than many of the more roundish robot vacuums, while its lower profile lets it easily get under most beds and sofas. The roomy 500ml dustbin also means you likely won’t need to empty it too often, while Dyson’s built-in handle and terrific quick-release button make removing said bin a relatively simple task when it’s time to do so.

While it is undeniably powerful, it’s worth noting that the 360 Vis Nav lacks a few features found on some of its more modern rivals. Although its navigation worked well enough during our testing, it lacks AI-powered obstacle avoidance and doesn’t come with a self-emptying dock. Battery life is also relatively short at around 65 minutes per charge. Nonetheless, if your top priority is quickly removing dust, dirt, and pet hair from carpets without multiple passes, the Dyson remains an option worth considering, especially at this discounted price.

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Technology

Global scam crackdown leads to 276 arrests

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Global scam crackdown leads to 276 arrests

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We’ve often warned you about romance scams and crypto “investment” opportunities that feel too good to pass up. Now, there’s a major update that shows just how organized these operations have become.

The Department of Justice and Federal Bureau of Investigation announced a sweeping international operation that led to at least 276 arrests and the shutdown of multiple scam centers tied to cryptocurrency fraud. These networks targeted Americans and drained millions of dollars from victims.

The operation spanned continents and involved coordinated efforts by law enforcement and tech companies.

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TOP 5 SCAMS SPREADING RIGHT NOW

The Department of Justice and FBI say international scam networks used romance and fake crypto investment schemes to steal millions from victims. (Helena Dolderer/Picture Alliance)

How the cryptocurrency scam crackdown unfolded

Authorities worked with partners around the world, including the Dubai Police and law enforcement agencies in Thailand and beyond. Together, they dismantled at least nine scam centers linked to large-scale crypto fraud.

Several suspects now face federal charges in the United States, including wire fraud and money laundering. Investigators say these operations functioned like businesses, with recruitment, management layers and structured systems designed to deceive victims.

Officials made it clear that this effort sends a message. Fraud crosses borders, and enforcement is now doing the same.

How crypto investment scams target victims

These schemes often follow a pattern known as “pig-butchering.” It is a slow, calculated tactic that builds trust before any money is involved.

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A scammer may reach out through social media or a messaging app and start a casual conversation. Over time, that interaction turns more personal. In some cases, it feels like a real relationship. Once trust is established, the topic shifts toward investing, often framed as a unique crypto opportunity.

Victims are guided through setting up accounts and transferring funds to platforms that appear legitimate. The dashboards may even show fake gains to build confidence. At that point, control of the money is already gone. Funds are quickly moved through multiple accounts and eventually end up with the scammers.

Many victims are encouraged to keep going, sometimes borrowing money or taking out loans to invest more. By the time the truth becomes clear, the losses can be devastating.

How Meta Platforms, Inc. helped track scam networks

Meta Platforms, Inc. played a key role in the investigation by providing data that helped law enforcement identify and track these networks.

The company says it has taken aggressive action across its platforms. In 2025 alone, Meta removed more than 159 million scam ads and shut down 10.9 million accounts linked to scam centers. More recently, it disabled over 150,000 accounts connected to these networks as part of a coordinated enforcement effort.

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“Meta is committed to combatting online fraud and scams, and we are proud to partner with law enforcement in these efforts,” Chris Sonderby, Meta’s vice president and deputy general counsel, said. “We applaud the DOJ and FBI for their leadership in holding criminal scammers accountable and protecting American consumers.”

FROM FRIENDLY TEXT TO FINANCIAL TRAP: THE NEW SCAM TREND

Federal authorities announced a sweeping international crackdown that led to at least 276 arrests tied to cryptocurrency scam centers targeting Americans. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

New tools to stop cryptocurrency scams in real time

Meta is also rolling out new protections across its apps to help users spot scams before they get pulled in.

On Facebook, users may see alerts tied to suspicious friend requests, especially when an account shows unusual behavior such as limited connections or inconsistent location details. 

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On WhatsApp, new warnings are designed to prevent scammers from linking their own devices to someone else’s account, giving users a chance to pause before approving a risky request.

Messenger is also expanding its scam detection tools. When a conversation shows patterns linked to common fraud tactics, users may receive prompts that explain the risk and suggest actions like blocking or reporting the account.

Why this cryptocurrency scam crackdown matters to you

This operation highlights how organized these scam networks have become. These are not random messages from a single person. They are coordinated groups running structured operations designed to build trust, create urgency and move money quickly.

Even with hundreds of arrests, the threat remains. New networks continue to emerge, often using the same playbook with slight changes. That means staying informed is still one of the most effective ways to protect yourself. 

Ways to stay safe from cryptocurrency scams

Scammers follow familiar patterns, which means there are clear warning signs you can watch for and simple steps you can take to protect yourself. 

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1) Slow down unexpected connections

If someone you do not know reaches out and quickly builds a personal connection, slow things down and question the situation. Scammers rely on momentum, so taking a pause can help you spot inconsistencies. 

2) Verify investment platforms before sending money

Before sending money to any investment platform, take time to verify that it is legitimate. A professional-looking website or app does not guarantee it is real. Look for independent reviews and official registration details.

3) Avoid sending crypto to unknown sources

Avoid sending cryptocurrency to individuals or platforms you cannot confirm. Once those transactions go through, they are extremely difficult to recover.

4) Watch for pressure and urgency

Be aware of pressure. If someone pushes you to act quickly or invest more, that urgency is often a warning sign.

5) Use strong antivirus protection

Strong antivirus software can help block malicious links, fake investment sites and other threats before they reach you, adding another layer of defense against scam attempts. Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.

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THE ONE THING SCAMMERS CHECK BEFORE TARGETING YOU ONLINE

Meta said it removed more than 159 million scam ads in 2025 and helped investigators track networks tied to cryptocurrency fraud. (Halfpoint/Getty Images)

6) Limit your personal data exposure

Scammers often rely on publicly available information to build trust. Reducing how much of your personal data appears online by using a data removal service can make it harder for them to target you in the first place. 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.

7) Strengthen your account security

It also helps to strengthen your digital security. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts and use trusted security tools to reduce exposure to malicious links and messages.

8) Report scams as soon as possible

If you believe you have been targeted or defrauded, report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov as soon as possible.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

This global crackdown is a meaningful step forward. It shows what can happen when law enforcement, tech companies and international partners work together. At the same time, these scams are not going away. The tactics will continue to evolve, and new networks will take the place of those that were shut down. Awareness and caution remain your strongest defenses.

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We report a lot about scams but not so much about scammers getting caught. Does this make you feel like real progress is being made in stopping them? Let us know by writing to us at CyberGuy.com.

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  • 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.

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Technology

Asus chases Elgato with its own secondary touchscreen display

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Asus chases Elgato with its own secondary touchscreen display

Asus’s latest gaming monitor is a little smaller than usual. The ROG Strix XG129C, announced on Friday, is a 12.3-inch touchscreen IPS display that’s intended to be a sidekick for a larger main monitor, similar to the 14.1-inch secondary display in the 2020 Asus ROG Zephyrus Duo 15. It’s a slightly smaller competitor to Corsair’s Xeneon Edge, which has a 14.5-inch display, but the same 720p resolution.

Asus says the XG129C covers 125 percent of the sRGB color gamut and 90 percent of the DCI-P3 color gamut. It also comes with a one-year subscription for the hardware monitoring tool AIDA64 Extreme, which would usually cost $65. Besides acting as a performance monitor for your PC, sidekick displays like this can also be handy as an extension for streaming or editing setups, much like Elgato’s Stream Deck.

Along with the little XG129C, Asus also announced the ROG Strix OLED XG34WCDMS, a 34-inch RGB Tandem QD-OLED gaming monitor. It features a 280Hz refresh rate and a 3440 x 1440p resolution, and, according to Asus, covers 99 percent of the DCI-P3 color gamut. Asus has not yet officially announced pricing for either display.

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