Technology
Windows update flaw could be a hidden gateway to zombie vulnerabilities
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Researchers have discovered a new way hackers could use to exploit Windows devices. They have found a vulnerability in your PC’s operating system that could let threat actors downgrade it to an older version of Windows.
So, if you’re on Windows 11, they could roll it back to Windows 10, which would expose a bunch of old vulnerabilities they could use to take full control of your system.
Microsoft told CyberGuy it is working on a fix and claims the vulnerability is still just theoretical — the company hasn’t seen anyone try to exploit it yet. I’ll go over the details of this security flaw and share some tips to help you protect your PC.
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A person working on a Windows PC. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
How hackers exploit Windows downgrades
Alon Leviev, a researcher at SafeBreach, spotted the security flaw. Leviev says he started digging into downgrade attack methods after noticing that a big hacking campaign last year used malware called the “BlackLotus UEFI bootkit” that worked by downgrading the Windows boot manager to an old, vulnerable version.
Leviev found a way to downgrade Windows — either the whole operating system or just certain parts of it. He then created a proof-of-concept attack using this method to turn off a Windows protection called Virtualization-Based Security (VBS) and target the highly privileged code running in the computer’s core, known as the “kernel.”
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Normally, when your PC requests an update, it communicates with a secure Microsoft server that controls the update process. Leviev couldn’t directly alter the server-controlled files, but he found that one key — “PoqexecCmdline” — was not locked, allowing him to manipulate the update process.
Using this control, Leviev was able to downgrade critical Windows components — including drivers, dynamic link libraries and the NT kernel — to older versions with known vulnerabilities. He also found ways to downgrade important security features like the Windows Secure Kernel, Credential Guard, the hypervisor and Virtualization-Based Security (VBS).
To make it clearer, older versions of Windows have unpatched issues that hackers can exploit to steal your data or take control of your PC. These issues get fixed when you update to the latest software version. But if hackers manage to downgrade your PC to an old, vulnerable version, they can easily break into your system.
Windows software running on these laptops. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
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What is Microsoft doing about the issue?
Microsoft has acknowledged the security flaw and is actively working on a fix. In response to an inquiry from CyberGuy, a company spokesperson provided the following statement:
“We appreciate the work of SafeBreach in identifying and responsibly reporting this vulnerability through a coordinated vulnerability disclosure. We are actively developing mitigations to protect against these risks while following an extensive process involving a thorough investigation, update development across all affected versions, and compatibility testing, to ensure maximized customer protection with minimized operational disruption.”
The Redmond, Washington-based company said it is developing a security update that will revoke outdated, unpatched VBS system files to mitigate this threat. Due to the complexity of blocking such a large quantity of files, rigorous testing is required to avoid integration failures or regressions. The company added:
“We are not aware of any attempts to exploit the technique outlined in this report and are continuing to monitor the threat landscape as it evolves.”
HP laptop running Windows. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
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Learn how to update your Windows software
Microsoft says that hackers haven’t exploited the vulnerability yet, and even if they do, there’s little you can do from your side. Still, as general cybersecurity hygiene, keep your operating system and other software up-to-date.
It is one of the most effective ways to safeguard your devices from known vulnerabilities and security flaws. To update your Windows software and benefit from the latest security patches, follow these simple steps:
For Windows 10 and Windows 11
- Click on the Start menu and select “Settings” (or press the Windows key + I shortcut).
- In the Settings window, click on “Update & Security.”
- Under the “Windows Update” section, click “Check for updates.”
- If updates are available, including the patch for the Wi-Fi driver vulnerability, Windows will download and install them automatically.
- Once the installation is complete, you may be prompted to restart your computer to apply the updates.
For Windows 8.1 and Earlier Versions
- Open the Control Panel and navigate to “System and Security.”
- Under the “Windows Update” section, click “Check for updates.”
- If updates are available, including the patch for the Wi-Fi driver vulnerability, select them and click “Install updates.”
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
- Restart your computer if prompted to apply the updates.
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Four additional ways to protect your Windows PC
The report says that even if the downgrade flaw is quite undetectable, hackers still need a way to get remote access to your computer. This is where you can stop them. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Install a strong antivirus program: Hackers often gain access to devices by sending infected emails or documents or tricking users into clicking a link that downloads malware. You can avoid this by installing strong antivirus software that will detect any potential threat before it can take over your device or router. Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.
2. Recognize urgent requests as potential scams: Always be wary if someone is urgently requesting you to do something like send money, provide personal information or click on a link — chances are it’s a scam.
3. Use strong and unique passwords: Create strong passwords for your accounts and devices, and avoid using the same password for multiple online accounts. Consider using a password manager to securely store and generate complex passwords. It will help you to create unique and difficult-to-crack passwords that a hacker could never guess. Second, it also keeps track of all your passwords in one place and fills passwords in for you when you’re logging into an account so that you never have to remember them yourself. The fewer passwords you remember, the less likely you will be to reuse them for your accounts. Get more details about my best expert-reviewed Password Managers of 2024 here.
4. Enable two-factor authentication: Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone, in addition to your password.
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Kurt’s key takeaways
This latest Windows vulnerability is a major concern, exposing your PC to potential risks by allowing hackers to downgrade your system to an older, less secure version. By exploiting this flaw, attackers could access outdated vulnerabilities and take full control of your machine. While Microsoft is aware of the issue and is working on a fix, the fact that this vulnerability even exists is a stark reminder of how critical it is to stay on top of system updates and security measures. Keep an eye on your system’s security and be cautious as more details emerge.
Do you regularly check for and install updates to avoid security threats like this? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact
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Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
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.
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.”
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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.
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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.
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.
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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.
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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:
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.
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
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Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
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.
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