Connect with us

Technology

Top 5 methods to equip your car with Wi-Fi

Published

on

Top 5 methods to equip your car with Wi-Fi

We’ve all been there, stuck in the car and wishing for a reliable Wi-Fi connection. 

Whether you’re trying to finish up some work on your laptop, enjoying a road trip in a camper van and craving a movie night or keeping the kids entertained with games on their iPads during a long drive, having Wi-Fi can make all the difference. 

It’s not just a luxury anymore; it’s become a necessity for many of us. So, if you’re looking to stay connected while on the go, let’s explore the top five methods to equip your car with Wi-Fi.

GET SECURITY ALERTS, EXPERT TIPS – SIGN UP FOR KURT’S NEWSLETTER – THE CYBERGUY REPORT HERE

A woman using Wi-Fi while working on her laptop in the back of a car. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Advertisement

1. Use a hot spot from your phone

Most smartphones have a built-in feature that allows you to share your mobile data connection as a Wi-Fi hot spot. This is a quick and convenient solution if you need internet access on the go. All you need to do is enable the hot spot feature in your phone’s settings, connect your devices to the Wi-Fi network it creates and you’re good to go. However, keep in mind that this will consume your mobile data and can drain your phone’s battery quickly. So, make sure to monitor your data usage and have a charger handy if you plan to use it for an extended period.

How to turn on a hot spot on an iPhone

  • Open the Settings app
  • Tap on Personal hot spot
  • Toggle the switch to turn on the Allow Others to Join option

How to turn on a hot spot on an Android

Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer 

  • Open the Settings app
  • Tap on Network & Internet
  • Select hot spot & tethering
  • Tap on Wi-Fi hot spot
  • Toggle the switch to turn on the hot spot

If you’ve never turned on your hot spot, it may ask you to set a password. Choose a secure password like you would for any account to prevent strangers from logging into your hot spot and putting yourself at risk. When you open the other device that you want to connect to your hot spot, the hot spot name should appear like any other Wi-Fi name you’d connect to, at which point anyone who wants to connect to it will need that password.

2. Buy a mobile hot spot device

A mobile hot spot device is a dedicated gadget designed to provide internet access via cellular data, similar to the hot spot feature on your smartphone. However, these devices offer several advantages over using a smartphone hot spot.

Mobile hot spots can support multiple devices simultaneously, allowing you to connect laptops, tablets and other gadgets without sacrificing performance. They typically have longer battery life than smartphones, making them ideal for extended use while on the go. Additionally, many mobile hots pots are engineered to deliver a more reliable and robust signal compared to smartphone hot spots.

You can find mobile hot spot devices at various carriers, and they often come bundled with their own data plans tailored to your usage needs. However, it is important to keep in mind that mobile hots pots rely on cellular networks for internet access. If you are in an area without cell service, a mobile hot spot will not provide a Wi-Fi connection because it cannot connect to the internet without a nearby cellular signal. Check out our top mobile hot spots to find the best in speed, security and convenience for your needs.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE U.S. NEWS

Advertisement

People using Wi-Fi on their laptop while traveling  (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

THE BEST TRAVEL GEAR FOR 2024  

3. Built-in car Wi-Fi

Some modern cars come with built-in Wi-Fi. Many manufacturers offer this handy feature as part of their connected car services. For example, you might find AT&T Connected Car in Toyota vehicles, OnStar in GM cars or Uconnect in Chrysler models. While these services typically require a subscription, they’re definitely worth considering. Not only do they provide internet access on the go, but they also come packed with a ton of other cool features to enhance your driving experience. So, if you’re in the market for a new car, keep an eye out for those Wi-Fi capabilities.

BEST TRAVEL ADAPTERS FOR 2024

4. Connect at a rest stop, café or restaurant

This may be a no-brainer, but if you’re on a long road trip and need to get online, many rest stops, cafés and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi to their customers. If the connection is strong enough, you may not even need to leave your car. But if you do (and you’ll likely need to go in to ask for the password unless it’s a free connection), take the opportunity to grab a bite to eat, stretch your legs or use the restroom. However, be cautious because public Wi-Fi networks can be insecure, making your personal information vulnerable to hackers.

Advertisement

Couple using Wi-Fi on a tablet while traveling  (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

5 WAYS TO SECURELY ACCESS WI-FI ON YOUR PHONE WHILE TRAVELING

5. Use a Wi-Fi extender or mesh network

If you frequently park near a location with a strong Wi-Fi signal, such as your home or a friend’s house, a Wi-Fi extender or mesh network can help boost the signal to reach your car. These devices amplify the existing Wi-Fi signal, allowing you to connect from a greater distance. Simply plug the extender into an outlet near the edge of the Wi-Fi range, and it will help bridge the gap to your car.

Alternatively, a mesh network consists of multiple nodes that work together to provide seamless coverage over a larger area, ensuring a strong and consistent signal even at the farthest points. This method is particularly useful if you often work from your car while parked in your driveway or near a reliable Wi-Fi source. Check out our picks for the best Wi-Fi range extenders and best mesh networks.

Advertisement

HOW TO CHECK IF SOMEONE IS STEALING YOUR WI-FI 

Kurt’s key takeaways

Staying connected while on the road has never been easier with the variety of options available. Whether you opt for a simple phone hot spot, invest in a dedicated mobile hot spot device or take advantage of built-in car Wi-Fi, there’s a solution to fit every need and budget. By choosing the right method for your situation, you can ensure that you and your passengers remain entertained, productive and connected, no matter where your journey takes you.

What are your must-have tech gadgets for road trips, and how do they enhance your travel experience? 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

Advertisement

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:

New from Kurt:

Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com.  All rights reserved.

Advertisement

Technology

OpenAI keeps shuffling its executives in bid to win AI agent battle

Published

on

OpenAI keeps shuffling its executives in bid to win AI agent battle

OpenAI announced yet another reorganization Friday, consolidating certain areas and making company president Greg Brockman the official lead of all things product.

In a memo viewed by The Verge, Brockman wrote that since OpenAI’s product strategy for this year is to go all-in on AI agents, the company is combining its products to “invest in a single agentic platform and to merge ChatGPT and Codex into one unified agentic experience for all.”

To do this, the company is making a suite of org chart changes, although it’s still operating under some of the same ones from last month. That’s when AGI boss Fidji Simo went on medical leave and OpenAI announced that Brockman would be in charge of product strategy and CSO Jason Kwon, CFO Sarah Friar, and CRO Denise Dresser would take control of business operations.

It’s all part of OpenAI’s recent strategic shift to focus on key revenue drivers like coding and enterprise and stop pouring resources into “side quests” ahead of its potential IPO later this year and amid investor pressure to turn a profit.

In Simo’s continued absence, Brockman’s role leading product strategy is now official, as well as the company’s “scaling” arm. Under Brockman will be four different pillars. The first is core product and platform, led by Thibault Sottiaux, who has been OpenAI’s engineering lead for Codex, and the second is critical enterprise industries, led by ChatGPT head Nick Turley. Third is the consumer pillar, such as health, commerce, and personal finance, which will be led by Ashley Alexander, who has been its healthcare products VP. The fourth pillar — core infrastructure, ads, data science, and growth — will be led by Vijaye Raji, who has been OpenAI’s CTO of applications.

Advertisement

Brockman wrote in the memo that OpenAI’s goal is now to “bring agents to ChatGPT scale, in order to give individuals and organizations significantly more value and utility from our products.”

Continue Reading

Technology

Is that traffic ticket text a scam or real?

Published

on

Is that traffic ticket text a scam or real?

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

You’re going about your day when your phone buzzes. A text hits your phone. It looks official. It sounds urgent. And suddenly, you are being told you owe money for a traffic violation. That is exactly what Todd from Texas experienced. He emailed us and said:

“I received this text message today. It was so baffling because I haven’t lived in California for nearly a decade. I didn’t click on anything or respond. How can I tell if this is for real or if this is a scam?”

If you’ve gotten a message like this, you are not alone. This type of scam is spreading fast, and it is designed to pressure you into acting before you think. Let’s break down what is really going on.

Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report

Advertisement
  • 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.

FAKE AGENT PHONE SCAMS ARE SPREADING FAST ACROSS THE US

This message may look official, but several red flags show it is likely a scam designed to pressure you into paying quickly. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What the traffic ticket scam text looks like

At first, the message seems convincing. It claims to be a “final reminder” from the California DMV, and it warns of penalties like license suspension and added fees. It even includes a link that appears somewhat official. However, once you slow down and take a closer look, the red flags quickly start to pile up.

The biggest red flags in this message

Here are the key warning signs to watch for in messages like this.

9 WAYS SCAMMERS CAN USE YOUR PHONE NUMBER TO TRY TO TRICK YOU

1) The phone number makes no sense

The message comes from a number with a +63 country code. That is the Philippines, not California. Government agencies in the U.S. do not send official legal notices from international numbers. That alone is a major warning sign.

Advertisement

2) No name, just “Dear Driver”

Legitimate notices from a DMV or court almost always include your full name or at least some identifying information. “Dear Driver” is vague on purpose. It allows scammers to send the same message to thousands of people.

3) The link isn’t a real DMV website

The message includes this link:

ca.mnvtl.life/dmv

That isn’t a government domain. Official DMV websites in California use “.ca.gov” or similar trusted domains. Scammers often create lookalike links to trick you into clicking.

4) Urgency and threats

The message pushes you to act quickly with a deadline. It lists consequences like license suspension and extra charges. Scammers rely on fear. When you feel rushed, you are more likely to click without thinking.

Advertisement

FBI WARNS OF DANGEROUS NEW ‘SMISHING’ SCAM TARGETING YOUR PHONE

5) Asking you to reply to proceed

The text says to reply with “Y” to get instructions. That is another trap. Responding confirms your number is active, which can lead to more scam messages.

6) Generic language and odd phrasing

Parts of the message feel slightly off. The tone is formal but not quite right. That subtle awkwardness is common in scam messages sent to large groups of people.

7) Overloaded threats designed to scare you

The message piles on consequences like license suspension, added fees, court action and even credit damage. In this case, it even mentions a license suspension and a $160 late payment charge. That combination is meant to overwhelm you and push you to act fast. Real agencies usually provide clear, specific notices, not a long list of escalating threats in a single text.

INSIDE A SCAMMER’S DAY AND HOW THEY TARGET YOU

Advertisement

Scam texts like this often arrive out of nowhere and try to create urgency before you have time to question them. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What this means for you

Even if you have never driven in California, you could still receive this message. Scammers cast a wide net and hope someone takes the bait. If you click the link, you could be taken to a fake payment page. That page may ask for your credit card details, personal information or login credentials. In some cases, it can also install malware on your device or redirect you to credential-stealing pages. This isn’t about a ticket. It is about getting your data.  State DMVs typically do not send final legal notices or payment demands by text message.

Why these scams keep working

These messages work because they tap into something most people fear. Legal trouble, fines and losing driving privileges. They also look just real enough to pass a quick glance. That is all scammers need. As more services move online, these scams will continue to evolve.

Unlike typical DMV scams, this message impersonates a court and escalates the threats to make the situation feel more serious (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Ways to stay safe from traffic ticket text scams

Start with a simple rule. Never trust a payment request that shows up out of nowhere. Here are practical steps you can take:

Advertisement

1) Do not click the link

If you are unsure, do not tap anything in the message. That includes links and reply options.

2) Use strong antivirus software

If you accidentally click a link, strong antivirus software can help detect malware and protect your data. Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com

3) Verify directly with the DMV

Go to your state’s official DMV website by typing it yourself into your browser. Do not use the link in the text.

4) Check the sender carefully

Look at the phone number. International numbers or random strings are a clear warning sign.

5) Ignore generic greetings

Real notices will usually include your name or case details. Vague language is a red flag.

Advertisement

6) Consider a data removal service

Scammers often get your number from data broker sites. Removing your personal info from those databases with a data removal service can reduce these messages. 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) Block and report the number

On your phone, block the sender and report it as spam. This helps reduce future attempts.

8) Turn on spam filtering

Enable spam filtering on your phone or through your carrier to catch more of these messages before they reach you.

Kurt’s key takeaways

Todd did the right thing. He paused, questioned the message and did not click. That one decision likely saved him from handing over personal information. When it comes to messages like this, skepticism is your best defense. If something feels off, trust that instinct.

Should phone carriers and tech companies be doing more to block scams like this before you ever see them? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com

Advertisement

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

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.

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Technology

Honda’s hybrid future starts with new Accord and RDX prototypes

Published

on

Honda’s hybrid future starts with new Accord and RDX prototypes

Honda revealed prototypes of two new hybrid models, an Accord sedan and the Acura RDX SUV, during its annual business briefing this week, built on a platform that it says will begin launching next year. The RDX was announced earlier this year as Honda’s first SUV to feature the next-gen version of its two-motor hybrid system.

In March, Honda announced it would take a writedown of up to 2.5 trillion yen ($15.7 billion) on its EV investments. Now Honda says its EV-related losses will be “resolved” by 2029, and that it will reevaluate its EV plans in 2030.

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Trending