Good tech doesn’t have to be boring – from headphones to smart lights, here are my top 6 recommendations for colorful tech that'll stand out from the crowd

They say fortune favors the bold, so why not rebel from cookie-cutter colorways and mix things up with some eye-catching tech instead? As a self-confessed color addict, I often find myself drawn to products rocking vibrant hues. But, experience has taught me that looks aren't everything, and no matter how pretty something may be, I'll soon tire of it if it proves inefficient.

To save others the trial and error, I've collated a list of six of our favorite products across a range of categories that not only performed well, but boast aesthetically pleasing colorways that'll satisfy those color cravings too.

Gamakay TK75 V2

(Image credit: Future)

The Gamakay TK75 V2 keyboard is a well-built and well-performing mechanical keyboard that offers multiple wireless connectivity modes and a good level of customization for the $89.99 / £75 / $AU148 price tag.

Our reviewer was impressed by the performance of the Pegasus switches, describing them as ultra-quiet and smooth, while still providing a good level of feedback. He also appreciated the silky-smooth feel of the PBT keycaps, which range in color from white, like the rest of the body, to pale blue, teal, and black.

If I could have things my way, all of the best keyboards would have RGB lighting, so I appreciate the vivid RGB backlighting on the TK75 V2, and I’m loving that the extra vibrancy from the independently adjustable RGB light bar that lives toward the right-hand end of the keyboard.

The Gamakay TK75 V2 also has a novel little feature similar to others I’ve seen appearing on the market, namely a teeny little screen that’s nestled between the up and right arrow buttons, which is capable of showing colorful little images or GIFs.

For the down-low on this bright and beautiful keyboard, check out our Gamakay TK75 review.

Bose QuietComfort headphones

(Image credit: Future / Bose)

The Bose QuietComfort headphones are a personal favorite of mine, and I wear my black pair almost every day. I was almost tempted away by a pale pink pair of Edifiers, but I quickly learned that the difference in fit and performance just wasn’t going to be enough for me to make the switch.

Bose's QuietComfort Headphones have a list price of $349 / £349.95 / AU$549.95 and come in a wide range of colors, including black, white, sandstone, lilac, and three different blues, although the paler Moonstone Blue looks to only be available from Amazon US. There’s also a pretty Petal Pink model, but sadly for those of us in the UK, this color seems to only be available in the US and Australia.

The button controls on the QuietComforts are simple but satisfying, so I’ve not encountered any issues when skipping tracks or switching between noise-cancelling modes when on the move. Speaking of the ANC, it was rated excellent by our reviewer, and I agree completely, as it serves me well whenever I need to focus in a busy office, and it effectively filters out ambient sounds from noisy public transport.

Bose states that the QuietComforts have a battery life of 24 hours, though our reviewer managed to get closer to 26 hours during testing, and I’ve personally not needed to charge my pair up that often, considering the amount I use them.

If you’re looking for a pair of headphones that are as well-performing as they are pretty, I strongly suggest you give these a try. I recommend checking out our full Bose QuietComfort headphones review for a more in-depth analysis.

Govee Neon Rope Light 2

(Image credit: Future)

I review a lot of smart lights, and I have lots of them in my home. Some are set to white for practical use, but most are programmed to brighten my space as a colorful dopamine boost.

The Govee Neon Rope Light 2 brings something a little different to the table, however. It isn’t a smart light one would buy just to add a bit of ambient color; it’s designed to make a statement, and it succeeds. It comes in white or black, and has a list price of $69.99 / £79.99 for the 9.8ft / 3m model, and $99.99 /£99.99 for the 16.4ft / 5m model.

This isn’t the only smart light of this kind, but the incredible level of customization that’s on offer within the intuitive Govee Home app makes it a very good example. You can customize the Neon Rope Light 2 by picking your own color palette and applying it over the entire rope light or curating it in segments. Alternatively, you can make the most of the many pre-existing color palettes or explore the many colors and lighting effects on offer from the wide range of scenes.

Though it’s perfect for creating a vibrant and eye-catching neon sign, the variable temperature and brightness levels mean it can also be used more subtly to highlight a particular feature or artwork.

If you’d like to learn more about all the fun features on offer, why not have a read of my full Govee Neon Rope Light 2 review?

Dyson Supersonic Nural

(Image credit: Future)

If someone had pitched the idea of a turquoise and orange hairdryer in the past, I’m fairly certain I would have raised an eyebrow, but I really can’t get enough of the Ceramic patina and topaz colorway, and the darker Vinca blue patina and topaz is pretty blimmin’ lovely too.

The price tag may be hefty at $499.99 / £399.99 / AU$750, but we were blown away by the performance of the Dyson Supersonic Nural.

It boasts several features, including an auto-pause mode, setting preference memory for each of its five attachments, and the innovative Scalp Protect mode. Our reviewer found this mode worked well, as it automatically adjusted the Dyson Supersonic Nural’s temperature based on how far it was away from her head, without noticeably lengthening the drying time compared to her usual just-blast-it-with-hot-air approach.

Obviously, this is a big investment to make just for a colorful hairdryer, but if you have the cash to spare, then you won’t be disappointed by the performance the Dyson Supersonic Nural delivers.

If you’d like to read more about how this eye-catching hairdryer performed, take a look at our full Dyson Supersonic Nural review.

SanDisk Creator Phone SSD

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Most external hard drives are bland, black rectangles, but not this boisterously blue SanDisk Creator Phone SSD, which has a list price of $99 / £99 for 1TB of storage, or $156 / £156 for 2TB.

With USB-C connectivity and a handy lanyard loop, this MagSafe-compatible SSD makes a great portable hard drive for iPhone and Android users alike. Its slimline design makes it easy to pack away, and our reviewer found that this made it one of the few portable SSDs he’d tried that actually felt comfortable when on the back of his phone.

Despite weighing just 2oz / 54g, the build quality felt solid and robust. This, combined with the rubberized edges and IP65 dust and water-proof rating, provides some added reassurance when taking it out and about, though it’s important to remember that this rating means it doesn’t qualify as fully waterproof.

According to our reviewer, the performance of the USB 3.4 Gen 2 interface was spot-on, either exceeding or coming very close to the scores we wanted to see in the benchmarking tests. The Creator Phone SSD also had no problem keeping up with the demands of capturing over 12 minutes of ProRes video footage.

While the color wasn’t to his taste, our reviewer was a fan of the Creator Phone SSD overall, and considers it to be one of the best portable SSDs, whether you’re capturing ProRes video footage or simply using it for extended storage. If you’d like to learn about this portable SSD’s performance in more detail, I recommend checking out our full SanDisk Creator Phone SSD review.

Motorola Edge 50 Neo

(Image credit: Future)

If you’re looking for a smartphone that makes a statement, then I think you’ll like the Motorola Edge 50 Neo. It has a list price of £399 / AU$699 (about $500), and is currently only available in the UK; however, Motorola has other colorful models in their Razr, Edge 60, and Moto G Stylus ranges.

All models of the Edge 50 feature a Pantone-curated colored case comprising pleasingly soft-to-the-touch vegan leather and a mixture of brushed and shiny-finished metallic edging. The model we reviewed was called Poinciana, which is a very eye-catching red-orange color.

When it was reviewed, the Motorola Edge 50 Neo came with the Android 14 OS installed, with the option to upgrade to Android 15. Motorola promised five Android OS upgrades and five years of security upgrades, which is good going for a phone of this price.

The 6.4-inch AMOLED display was satisfyingly bright for the price, and the colors on-screen were just as vibrant and eye-catching as its Pantone-colored casing. The Hello UI offered some useful security features and allowed for plenty of customization, too.

The cameras on offer include a 32MP front camera, a 50MP main and a 13MP ultra-wide camera, as well as a 10MP telephoto sensor, which delivered a solid performance for a mid-range phone.

If you’re looking for a lightweight mid-range phone with solid battery life that stands out from the crowd, I’d recommend taking a look at our full Motorola Edge 50 Neo review.

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Intel set to transfer marketing jobs to an AI which could ironically be running on Intel processors

• Intel will outsource marketing roles to Accenture and artificial intelligence
• Company CEO Lip-Bu Tan pushes structural cuts to speed up operations
• Marketing staff may help train replacements as layoffs are planned

Intel has begun informing its marketing staff that many of their roles will be outsourced to Accenture, which will use artificial intelligence to manage parts of Intel’s marketing efforts, potentially powered by Intel’s own processors.

This move is part of CEO Lip-Bu Tan’s broader plan to overhaul operations, cut costs, and speed up decision-making.

Intel revealed its plans with a statement describing Accenture as “a longtime partner and trusted leader,” and said it is expanding that relationship, with affected employees notified by July 11.

Significant changes to team structures

“The transition of our marketing and operations functions will result in significant changes to team structures, including potential headcount reductions, with only lean teams remaining,” Intel wrote in a staff notice. The company did not reveal how many employees could be affected by the cuts.

Intel added, “We are focused on modernizing our digital capabilities to serve our customers better and strengthen our brand.”

Intel describes the shift to Accenture as a way to streamline marketing work.

“We need to change our ‘go to market’ model to be more responsive to what customers want,” the company reportedly told its marketing team. “We have received feedback that our decision-making is too slow, our programs are too complex, and our competitors are moving faster.”

Intel is struggling to regain ground after losing market share in PCs, data centers, and AI chips. Its sales have dropped by about one-third in recent years.

“We are partnering with Accenture to leverage AI-driven technologies with the goals of moving faster, simplifying processes and reflecting best practices, while also managing our spending,” Intel told employees, adding that some staff may be asked to train their replacements during the handoff period.

A few days previously, manufacturing employees were warned that up to 20% of their jobs could be cut in July 2025.

Via Oregon Live

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This Intel Core i7 motherboard is probably the world's most powerful SBC - and yet it is as small as the Raspberry Pi 5

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• de next-RAP8 SBC may be tiny in size, but pushes boundaries in robotics and industrial hardware design
• Not your average single-board computer, this one runs Intel Core i7 and LPDDR5x memory
• Add-on modules unlock AI and storage power, but complexity holds it back for offices

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AAEON has introduced the de next-RAP8, a single-board computer that combines 13th Gen Intel Core processors with a compact footprint of just 84mm x 55mm.

This makes it similar in size to the Raspberry Pi 5, yet it includes components typically reserved for much larger systems.

The board is available with the Intel Core i3-1315UE, i5-1335UE, or i7-1365UE, each running at 15W.

Designed for robotics and industrial systems

The biggest model delivers up to 10 cores and 12 threads, paired with up to 16GB of LPDDR5x memory and integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics.

These specifications suggest the board could handle lightweight multitasking and media processing, although performance would still be constrained by thermal limits and the lack of a discrete GPU.

While it delivers more performance than typical embedded systems, its layout and expansion capabilities do not match the flexibility expected from workstation PCs.

Its connectivity includes dual Intel RJ-45 Ethernet ports supporting 2.5GbE and 1GbE, two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, HDMI 1.2a output, and a 12V DC jack.

Additional features are accessible through a 40-pin header, which supports 8-bit GPIO, USB 2.0, and RS-232/422/485 interfaces. There is also optional support for SMBus/I2C.

These features suggest the board is intended for integration into custom hardware systems, including drones and robotics platforms.

Further expansion is available via an M.2 2280 M-Key slot for Wi-Fi, 4G, or storage modules, and an FPC connector offering PCIe x4 Gen 3.

AAEON’s own adapter cards, such as the PER-T642 and PER-R41P, extend functionality to include AI acceleration and additional storage or graphics capture capabilities.

The de next-RAP8 is well suited for specialized devices built for robotics, drones, kiosks, and other industrial systems that require custom integration in space-constrained setups.

However, the need for add-on cards adds complexity that typical office setups don’t require, making it unsuitable as a business PC, which should offer built-in features and better scalability.

Via TechPowerUp

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I’ve been telling you AR glasses will be awesome, and this real-life ad blocker is yet another reason why I'm right

Ever wish your digital ad blocker could work offline too? This in-development AR glasses software could do just that, and it could be one of the first apps I download when I get a pair.

AR glasses – be they from Snap, Meta, Google and its Android XR partners, or one of the other brands pursuing this field – are increasingly looking like they’ll be the next big thing in tech, but one fear I’ve heard from some is they’ll give our tech a new avenue for blasting ads in front of our faces.

We’ll be bombarded by inescapable banners and pop-ups – a frustrating experience which sounds like prime material for a Futurama episode.

Thankfully, one AR software developer has created a tool that goes in the opposite direction by blocking adverts wherever they appear.

🚫🕶️ I've been building an XR app for a real-world ad blocker using Snap @Spectacles. It uses Gemini to detect and block ads in the environment.It’s still early and experimental, but it’s exciting to imagine a future where you control the physical content you see. pic.twitter.com/ySkFfF6rxSJune 19, 2025

Stijn Spanhove took to social media to show off an “early and experimental” build of the app, but even at this early stage, it already offers some impressive features.

As you’d expect, when switched on, the app can obscure large sign ads, covering them up with a red blocker and a brief description of what’s underneath, such as “Bol. billboard” – but it can also hide adverts in newspapers, and logos on soda cans and cereal boxes.

For now, however, the blocker isn’t perfect.

I’d argue the big red blocker is more distracting than an advertisement, and it can take a moment to appear, though there is some great spatial awareness as the blocker does a good job of floating in place as the AR glasses wearer moves their head around.

That said, with AR glasses still some time away from their consumer debut, there’s plenty of time for these kinks to be worked out.

As Spanhove highlighted, AR glasses will enable us to control the content we see in both the digital and virtual world, and while it’s reasonable to be concerned about how this feature could be abused, it’s always nice to be reminded that plenty of app makers will be responsible with the power AR unlocks.

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I'm still waiting on the MSI Claw 8 AI+ – and in the meantime, handheld gaming with the Xreal One AR glasses should hold me over

If you've kept up to date with my articles recently, then you'll be aware that I've been on the lookout for acquiring the MSI Claw 8 AI+ or an equivalent handheld with an 8-inch screen.

This is simply because I want a handheld gaming PC that has a bigger screen, without going overboard like some of the unappealing devices that look like a tablet and controller super-glued together.

Unfortunately, that's not possible, since the Claw 8 AI+ is almost non-existent across retailers in the UK and the US, and opting for the Lenovo Legion Go S or the original (both using the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme) would seem a little nonsensical since I'd miss out on the processor upgrade. So, I guess you can say I've been a little out of luck... or have I?

I say this because acquiring the Xreal One AR glasses for testing on the Asus ROG Ally has left me amazed at just how much better handheld gaming can be. With a micro OLED display, an X1 chip, adjustable screen size, and distance, including an ultrawide mode (up to a 32:9 aspect ratio), it's one of the best solutions for those who want a bigger screen. However, that's not all.

Neck and hand strain is no longer an issue...

The Xreal One AR glasses massively contribute to a reduction of neck and hand strain. As much as I love handheld gaming PCs, I'll admit it's difficult to get the same experience as you would with a desktop gaming setup – and no, I'm not talking about performance.

One way or another, most will find issues with neck and hand aches (especially with heavier 8-inch devices) after prolonged periods of gaming – trust me, I can already see the "touch grass comments" – but the Xreal One glasses completely alleviate these problems.

With its follow and anchor modes, you can easily move the projected display and lock it wherever you prefer. Essentially, I could use my handheld while lying in bed and have the action projected onto the ceiling, adjusting the screen size up to 147 inches with an adjustable distance for visual clarity.

With a transparency mode, I could easily darken the surroundings of the projected display, producing a theater-like experience, built for immersion. This is best used in a dark room without any light intrusion. It's not going to reproduce what you'd get with a full VR headset, of course not, but it does a great job at placing you in the world of your content.

It's not just gaming either. The ultrawide mode is fantastic for 21:9 movies and games, but don't expect much with the latter on handhelds. On Bazzite (a SteamOS clone), I couldn't manage to get an ultrawide resolution working in Stellar Blade (the game I tested most) – so while you can use the ultrawide mode with the ROG Ally, you'll be left with black bars in-game.

In all honesty, you should never expect to be playing at an ultrawide resolution using a handheld gaming PC. That's the realm of a more powerful gaming PC instead – and this introduces the gripes I do have with the Xreal One AR glasses.

Don't judge me... I'm in love with it (Image credit: Future / Isaiah Williams)

The Xreal One glasses are too expensive, especially for handheld-only usage

The biggest problem I have with the Xreal One glasses is their price. It retails at $499 / £499, which, if you're using it for a variety of devices, is still reasonable. However, if you're buying this strictly for your handheld (which is probably why you're even reading this) or desktop gaming PC, then it's hard for me to recommend.

This is because you'll most likely need to buy accessories like the Xreal Hub to simultaneously charge your handheld while also using a separate connection for display. For those that have handhelds like the Lenovo Legion Go or MSI Claw 8 AI+, you're in luck, as they have two USB-C ports, but the Asus ROG Ally doesn't.

It's no secret that the ROG Ally's battery life is pretty bad. So, without a dock that has Power Delivery with DisplayPort or the Xreal Hub, I couldn't use the Xreal One glasses to their full potential, as I had to keep charging my handheld after 30 to 45 minutes from full charge.

The same applied to my gaming PC, as you'll need an HDMI to USB-C or DP to USB-C cable (with USB-A power) to get the glasses working. What I'm trying to say is I don't like the fact that you have to spend more on accessories, as such to get the AR glasses working at their full potential, especially when it already costs a lot of money.

When you throw in the price of the handhelds themselves, it becomes a huge expense altogether, and overall, a tough recommendation. Don't get me wrong, these are a great set of AR glasses that I'd love to use for travel and the convenience of better multitasking, but just be ready to cough up a lot of cash for the best possible experience.

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Forget Starlink – this Chinese satellite internet tech is capable of 1Gbps speeds that are five times faster

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• A team of Chinese researchers has achieved a 1Gbps data transmission from a satellite
• The satellite operates 22,807 miles above Earth, while Starlink satellites are at around 341 miles
• This kind of speed could be revolutionary for internet connections in remote areas on Earth, but also in space

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It's no secret that getting a stable, reasonably fast internet connection in non-urban areas is still a challenge (and even those of us living in cities sometimes struggle). Elon Musk's satellite internet service, Starlink, goes a long way toward making internet more accessible all around the globe – but it just got majorly overshadowed by a small team of Chinese scientists.

This new breakthrough in satellite internet technology (via Interesting Engineering) was achieved by Liu Chao from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Professor Wu Jian of Peking University of Posts and Telecommunications. The scientists developed a new method of combating the biggest hurdle faced by satellite laser connections: atmospheric turbulence.

Combining two already established technologies and using them in synergy resulted in shockingly fast data transmission. But this isn't just about speed (although that's arguably the best part for us, internet users). It's also about the distance to the satellite and the laughably low wattage of the laser used by the Chinese researchers.

Super-fast satellite speeds with a surprisingly low error rate

A key benefit of this method lies in the relatively low error rate during data transmission, increasing the chance of achieving usable signals by nearly 20% (previously 72%, now 91.1%). As we all know, speeds are just one part of the equation when it comes to internet connections, and anyone who's ever had to deal with an unreliable ISP knows that stable is often better than faster.

Still, the Chinese researchers were reportedly able to achieve both through a mix of Adaptive Optics (AO) and Mode Diversity Reception (MDR). The former sharpens distorted light, and the latter captures scattered signals. Only when combined did these two separate methods achieve 1Gbps in data transmission, though, and the scientists praise this method for successfully avoiding drops in communication quality.

(Image credit: T-Mobile)

They carried out the test at the Lijiang observatory in China, using a 5.9-foot telescope that contains hundreds of tiny mirrors – that's the adaptive optics system in play. These mirrors reshape incoming laser light to account for atmospheric turbulence. Speaking of lasers: the team used a two-watt laser for this experiment, which can be compared to a nightlight. Of course, this refers to laser power and not the satellite’s total energy use.

Once processed and extracted, the light splits into eight base-mode channels, and finally, a special algorithm decides which of these channels is the most promising, in real-time. Choosing the top three signals out of eight gave the researchers a major boost in signal strength, all the while dramatically outpacing Starlink’s downlink speeds – especially impressive given the much greater orbital distance.

This could be good news for internet users worldwide (and beyond)

(Image credit: Unsplash / Evgeny Opanasenko)

Comparing this new breakthrough to Starlink reveals a few key differences. First, data transmission speeds reaching up to 1Gbps are not something that Starlink can currently achieve; in our Starlink review, we found that the average for downloads sat at 71Mbps, and Starlink itself promises to deliver between 25 to 100 Mbps on the Standard plan. Second, signal strength and reduced errors in data transmission, despite the massive distance to the satellite, are both promising.

Cutting back on errors and snags in the connection is crucial for users who want to stream videos or send larger files. If this technology is ever made mainstream, we might be able to use the internet even in remote areas without having to compromise on what we can or cannot do. Goodbye, waiting for five minutes for that text to come through – we really wouldn't miss you.

But the implications here are huge, even if you think bigger than just having a reliable connection everywhere. Boosting signal speed, distance, and strength through this method of laser communication could spell great news for satellite navigation. It could even impact the ability to connect with space missions, such as with the ISS, more seamlessly and without delays.

Right now, this is just a proof of concept – an interesting achievement described in the Acta Optica Sinica journal. Let's hope that this picks up and gives Starlink a serious run for its money.

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This $1,999 smartphone is the closest 'Made in USA' cellphone right now, but it's no match for Android

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• Built in California, powered by Linux, the Liberty Phone says no to tech giants
• With no Android or iOS, it’s the loneliest smartphone on the market today
• It costs more, does less, and still claims to be the best smartphone for privacy

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Despite rising political pressure to bring tech manufacturing back to the US, building a premium smartphone domestically remains a costly and technically difficult challenge.

The Liberty Phone by Purism, priced at $1,999, offers a rare example of how close a company can get to building an America-made device, but it comes with significant trade-offs in performance and practicality.

Unlike the widely promoted but questionable $499 Trump Phone, the Liberty Phone is at least verifiably assembled in the US, although it lacks flagship-level features.

Still not 100% "Made In USA!"

Todd Weaver, Purism’s founder, is upfront about the limitations, noting, “Someone who needs a wicked-strong camera is not our audience.”

Weaver estimates the Liberty Phone costs around $650 to produce, higher than the iPhone 16 Pro Max, which TechInsights says costs about $550 to build in China.

This discrepancy is driven largely by US labor costs, with savings made by using lower-spec components such as a basic camera and a low-resolution screen.

This may suit its core user base, including security geeks, older users, kids, and those who want to distance themselves from major tech brands, but it is nowhere near mainstream Android alternatives - for anyone expecting the best smartphone for business or multimedia tasks, the Liberty Phone is unlikely to compete.

Part of Purism’s appeal lies in its transparent and partially domestic supply chain - the motherboard is built at the company's California site, the chip is sourced from NXP’s Austin, Texas, facility, and the final assembly is local.

But some critical components, like the camera from South Korea and the display and battery from China, still depend on global sourcing.

“There are just some parts that don’t yet have a supply chain,” says Weaver. “We’re gonna keep incrementing there until we can get to that point.”

It runs PureOS, a Linux-based operating system that supports basic tasks like calling, texting, and web browsing, but without support for Android or iOS apps, it’s a hard sell for anyone needing a broad app ecosystem or high-end performance.

Nonetheless, Weaver believes a niche market exists and claims that about half of Purism’s customers are US government agencies.

Even though tariffs might someday narrow the cost gap, the continuity of this project is not certain.

“We don’t have factories here building application processors, high-end displays or most of the other things in your smartphone,” said Jeff Fieldhack of Counterpoint Research, showing his skepticism.

At the moment, the Liberty Phone is more of a philosophical gesture than a practical solution, and only Americans or those loyal to the US will give it a second look.

Via Wall Street Journal

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This dangerous new malware is hitting iOS and Android phones alike - and it's even stealing photos and crypto

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• Malware-ridden apps are sneaking on to official app stores
• SparkKitty will steal photos to crack into your crypto wallet
• One infected app was downloaded over 10,000 times

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A dangerous new malware strain targeting smartphone users has managed to sneak on to both the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store without being detected, experts have warned.

SparkKitty was first spotted by cybersecurity experts at Kaspersky in January 2025, and uses optical character recognition to scan through your photos and harvest cryptocurrency wallet recovery phrases.

Most crypto currency exchanges will tell a user to write down a memorable phrase when creating an account for recovery purposes, but many users will simply screenshot their memorable phrase - making it super easy for SparkKitty to steal.

Snooping through photos and stealing crypto

Kaspersky says the SparkKitty malware has been actively distributed across both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store since February 2024, and has also been distributed through unofficial means as well.

The infected apps have since been removed from both app stores.

In many cases, the apps appeared to be legitimate and were designed for numerous purposes. One infected app called SOEX was downloaded over 10,000 times on the Google Play Store, and appeared to be a messaging app with cryptocurrency trading and exchange features - the perfect disguise for a malware designed to target cryptocurrency wallets.

Once installed on a user's device, the app will ask for permission to access and modify the image library on both iOS and Android devices. After being granted access, the app then scans the image library and will re-scan if it detects modifications being made to the image library, such as new images being added or deleted.

Obviously, outside of the threat to crypto wallets there is the threat of users being extorted using other images that could be found in their image library, but there is no evidence of this happening so far.

Hackers are constantly developing new tactics to hide their malware on applications that can be distributed through trusted platforms such as the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

Always remember to double check that the application you are downloading is made by a trusted developer, is definitely the authentic version of the app you are looking for, and has trustworthy reviews. If in doubt, don’t download it.

Also be wary of apps that ask for more permissions than they actually need, or apps that request permission to create new configuration profiles and certificates. Finally, when creating a memorable phrase for recovering an account, don’t keep it stored where it can be easily stolen.

Many of the best cloud storage services and best password managers offer encrypted storage vaults for storing important phrases.

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AMD gets ready for Nvidia Vera Rubin with 432GB MI400 GPU monster paired with 256-core EPYC Venice - I can't wait to see the sparks fly

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• AMD’s MI400 GPU expected to offer 432GB HBM4 across 12 memory stacks
• 256-core EPYC Venice CPU to debut with PCIe Gen6 and 2nm process
• AMD’s Helios rack aims for 10x performance with double-wide AI architecture

---

AMD recently revealed its Instinct MI350 series of GPUs, but the bigger news is what the chip giant has planned for 2026.

The company is preparing a next-generation AI platform which includes the Instinct MI400 GPU, EPYC "Venice" CPU, and a major shift in rack design with its Helios infrastructure, an expansive, double-wide configuration aimed at scaling performance and bandwidth.

The MI400 GPU is expected to ship with up to 432GB of HBM4 memory, built using 12 stacks of 36GB HBM4, based on numbers shared by Micron and memory per-GPU estimates from AMD's rack capacity.

A direct response to Nvidia

This would be a considerable jump from the current MI350’s 8-stack setup, putting it on track to rival Nvidia’s upcoming Vera Rubin platform.

Alongside the MI400, AMD plans to debut its 256-core EPYC "Venice" server CPU, built on a 2nm process with PCIe Gen6 support and up to 1.6TB/s of memory bandwidth.

The platform will also feature the Vulcano 800G NIC and support open standards like UALink and Ultra Ethernet for improved scale-out connectivity.

AMD says the Helios rack and MI450 GPU will offer up to 10x the performance of the MI355X, positioning it as a direct response to Nvidia’s accelerated roadmap.

Sam Altman appeared on stage at the company's recent Advancing AI event alongside AMD's CEO Lisa Su to emphasize OpenAI’s early interest in the new platform, saying “I think it’s going to be an amazing thing.”

Although the hardware won’t arrive until 2026, AMD’s preview sets the tone for what could be a fierce race with Nvidia.

The Helios rack might not have an official name yet, but it’s clear AMD is thinking bigger - and wider! - as it moves toward next-gen AI infrastructure.

Via ServeTheHome

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First your money, now your data: Klarna wants to become a global mobile network with unlimited 5G data, joining N26, Revolut - I just wonder how long before PayPal joins in

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• Klarna wants to be your bank, your store, and now your phone network too
• It’s new mobile plan offers unlimited 5G, but it's unclear how support will work
• Unlimited data sounds great, but what happens when you need help or travel abroad?

---

Klarna, the fintech company known for reshaping the buy-now-pay-later space and once using an AI bot to do the job of 700 staff, is moving into a very different line of business: mobile connectivity.

The company is launching a mobile network that promises unlimited 5G data, talk, and text for $40 per month in the United States.

Klarna’s new service is being rolled out in partnership with Gigs, a company that describes itself as the “operating system for mobile services.”

Klarna moves beyond banking

“Klarna’s push into the mobile space marks the beginning of a new era for connectivity. Now, consumers can expect a seamlessly integrated mobile experience that bundles premium connectivity with financial tools, all through the apps they already know and love,” said Gigs CEO, Hermann Frank.

The plan includes unlimited 5G data that reportedly won’t be throttled, with coverage on AT&T’s nationwide network.

Klarna claims there are no hidden fees, no contract lock-ins, and a setup process that happens in minutes through the Klarna app.

But questions remain about long-term service reliability, especially when services like customer support and international roaming haven’t yet launched.

For now, only a basic unlimited plan is available, with premium options expected later.

“Klarna has saved consumers time and money, and reduced financial worry for over 20 years. With mobile plans we’re taking that one step further, as we continue to build our neobank offering,” said Sebastian Siemiatkowski, CEO and co-founder of Klarna.

“Consumers already know and love Klarna’s super smooth services and now, with one tap in the Klarna app, they’ll be up and running with their new phone plan, no hassle, no hidden fees, just great value.”

The offer seems to address common frustrations among US mobile users. Klarna’s internal research suggests half of Americans "believe switching phone plans is too difficult.”

The company touts its 25 million active users and high Net Promoter Score as reasons why it could disrupt telecom just as it did digital payments.

With N26 and Revolut already venturing into telecom, Klarna’s entry is part of a larger trend where neobanks try to wrap financial and connectivity tools into one platform. Surely it's only a matter of time before PayPal joins the fold.

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Asus pairs AMD's Ryzen AI CPU with an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 in an OLED-toting laptop - and I can't believe how affordable it is

---

• Asus ProArt P16 beats most laptops in its price and size class
• You get RTX 5070 graphics and OLED visuals in a surprisingly slim 4-pound frame
• Bundled AI apps like StoryCube and MuseTree boost productivity for visual creators and editors

---

Asus has introduced the ProArt P16 (H7606), a laptop which pairs AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor with Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 5070 GPU, targeting content creators and professional users.

The new addition joins the wave of Copilot+ PCs built to support advanced local AI tasks and aims to rival some of the most premium creative laptops on the market.

At $2,499.99, the ProArt P16 also undercuts competitors like the Razer Blade 16, which retails for $2,799.99 but offers a similar target user experience.

Asus ProArt P16 bundles AI tools and software for creatives

The ProArt P16 features a 16-inch OLED display, a premium visual specification often reserved for machines priced higher.

It also supports up to 64GB of RAM, which is nearly unheard of in this segment, and up to 2TB of internal storage.

These specifications position it as a contender for the best laptop for graphic design, especially those working with high-resolution files and complex color spaces.

At just 0.59 inches thick and weighing 4.08 pounds, the Nano Black chassis keeps things portable despite the raw horsepower inside.

Asus bundles in additional creative features through its exclusive apps: StoryCube and MuseTree. The former is pitched as a digital asset management tool that utilizes AI to automatically categorize and generate clips from user content, while the latter turns graphical prompts into images while intelligently organizing creative inspiration.

At just 0.59 inches thick and weighing 4.08 pounds, the Nano Black chassis keeps things portable despite the raw horsepower inside.

This pairing of hardware and software seems designed to capture those looking for the best laptop for video editing without committing to a desktop setup.

Asus has also partnered with CapCut, giving new users an exclusive six-month membership that includes access to premium features and AI-driven editing tools.

In addition, the laptop comes with a three-month Adobe Creative Suite subscription, further appealing to professionals working across photography, video, and design workflows.

These bundled tools offer value for those searching for the best laptop for photo editing, as they come integrated into the buying experience.

That said, Asus will release a more powerful model featuring the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 in late 2025, which will likely push the price higher. This model will be available for purchase at the ASUS official store after launch.

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I’m not buying the Tesla robotaxi hype – here’s why it’s still miles behind Waymo

---

• Tesla unveiled its “public-facing” Robotaxi service this weekend
• The service is currently an invite-only affair
• Reports suggest it is still behind Waymo and other rivals

---

In a surprising turn of events, Tesla has stuck to its recent timelines and actually kick-started a “public-facing” autonomous ride-hailing service in Austin, Texas this weekend.

Despite Texas lawmakers asking Musk to postpone proceedings until it had finalized and introduced new laws surrounding fully autonomous taxis, the controversial CEO has ploughed ahead anyway.

As a result, reports are surfacing on various social media networks that show the first few VIP invitees enjoying their debut Robotaxi experience.

However, this is a far cry from the futuristic Cybercab scenario that Tesla showcased at its Hollywood-spec 'We, Robot' event in October of last year, where bespoke Cybercabs ferried folks around a film set and the company’s Optimus humanoid robots served drinks to party-goers, only for the world to find out they were actually tele-operated.

It is a similar story with Tesla's recent robotaxi endeavor, as the “fleet” of 10-20 Model Y vehicles (sporting some Robotaxi branding) are strictly limited to a small and relatively uncomplicated area of Austin, Texas.

They also only operate between 6am and 12am and have a remote operator in the passenger seat to manually verify riders' ID and take control should a problem arise.

The Verge reported that some of Tesla’s driverless vehicles are also followed by 'chase' vehicles, presumably packed with engineers ready to jump in should there be an issue that both the in-car and remote operators can’t handle.

So far, only a select number of invites have gone out to predominantly “pro-Tesla” influencers, according to The Verge, with the initial invite list of test pilots reading like a who’s-who of the Musk sycophant contingent – renowned Tesla stock hype-man Sawyer Merritt being among those names.

Just like the 'We, Robot' event, this initial launch phase feels very much like a massive PR stunt, with the company essentially inviting the “general public” (read Tesla content creators) along for a ride during the very early testing phase, rather than during the widespread deployment of a legitimate, paid-for service.

Why Waymo is way ahead

(Image credit: Waymo)

It’s impossible to talk about Tesla’s robotaxi service without mentioning its closest competitor Waymo, particularly when Musk reportedly said after this successful initial launch phase that there could up to a thousand robotaxis on the road in a few months.

As a reminder, Waymo currently has a fully operational fleet of 1,500 vehicles on the road in four major cities in the US, with the areas in which it operates constantly expanding inside those cities. Anyone can summon a driverless cab with a simple app interface and they won't see a human inside the vehicle.

By the end of 2026, it hopes to have added another 2,000 vehicles according to a blog post by the Alphabet-owned company released in May this year, as it continues to ready a fleet of Jaguar i-Pace cars for autonomous driving.

Waymo also announced that it will be the first major client of Hyundai’s mass-produced Ioniq 5 robotaxi, which will help it scale even faster.

To think Musk will be able to reach this stage a couple of months after what is basically an initial testing phase is pure fantasy, especially as he insists on using a camera-only Full Self-Driving system that lacks the radars, Lidar and myriad other sensors that its rivals say is mandatory for a reliable and safe service.

Scaling up is the true test

(Image credit: Hyundai)

Already, a number of videos have already surfaced on Reddit that appear to show Tesla Robotaxis behaving erratically, swerving at busy intersections and slamming on the brakes for parked police cars that aren’t even stopped in the road.

Granted, it’s impossible to verify the authenticity of a Reddit video, but there is a growing list of very public cases where Tesla’s Full Self-Driving system has been active during an accident.

The first few reviews of the experience seem largely positive, with most riders describing the drive as “smooth” or “human-like”, but these are still very early days.

Things will get far more complicated if and when Tesla legitimately has thousands of vehicles on the road, it removes the operator sat in the passenger seat, and it builds out its app so the general public can genuinely use it. I predict that being at least two years away.

Alongside Waymo, there are companies in China that are also racing ahead with active fully autonomous ride-hailing services. Baidu, WeRide and Pony.ai are already racking up hundreds and thousands of miles.

Just last year, Baidu reportedly sparked anxiety among taxi drivers, automotive brands and the working public after it launched a driverless service in Wuhan that offered rides of around six miles (much further than the reported four or so miles Tesla can currently travel) for around 50 cents.

It undercut journeys with a human driver at the wheel by around two bucks and naturally proved very popular, according to CNN, leading to panic that many jobs could soon to be at risk.

Once the legal framework is in place for the widespread rollout of autonomous vehicles, it wouldn't be too much of a stretch to think that the Chinese could swoop in and dominate the market... just like they have done with EVs.

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Nothing Phone 3 Tipped to Get 50-Megapixel Triple Cameras; Specifications Leak Ahead of Launch

Nothing Phone 3 is scheduled to debut on July 1 in India and global markets. Ahead of the launch, detailed specifications of the upcoming handset have now surfaced on a social media platform. The Nothing Phone 3 is tipped to sport a 6.7-inch LTPO OLED screen. It may feature a triple rear camera unit comprising three 50-megapixel lenses. The Phone 3 is said to offer up...

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Kali Linux gets a major upgrade with more than 10 new hacking tools, plus VPN IP extension, great for ethical hackers and pentest pros

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• Kali Linux 2025.2 brings powerful new tools for experienced penetration testers
• Offensive Security realigns Kali’s interface with MITRE ATT&CK - finally, structure meets hacking function
• New BloodHound tools hint at deeper Azure and Active Directory targeting than ever before

---

The newest update to Kali Linux, version 2025.2, introduces over a dozen new tools alongside enhancements to user experience and platform support.

Offensive Security, the developers behind the Debian-based distribution, announced its general availability with a clear focus on aligning the system with the MITRE ATT&CK framework.

The restructured Kali Menu is now tailored to make tool discovery more intuitive, but whether this structural change leads to meaningful workflow improvement remains to be seen.

Thirteen new tools for advanced offensive capabilities

Included in the new release are 13 additional tools, many of which are specialized for advanced offensive operations.

Tools like azurehound for Azure directory data collection and bloodhound-ce-python, a Python ingestor for BloodHound CE, appear to target complex enterprise environments.

Meanwhile, binwalk3 expands firmware analysis capabilities, and bopscrk enables custom wordlist creation based on intelligent algorithms.

Some additions, such as crlfuzz, which is “a fast tool to scan CRLF vulnerability written in Go,” and donut-shellcode, which lets users “generate position-independent shellcode from memory and run it,” suggest the release continues to cater to skilled practitioners.

Kali Linux 2025.2 also adds chisel-common-binaries and ligolo-ng-common-binaries, both of which offer prebuilt binaries aimed at tunneling and pivoting, activities common in red teaming.

In terms of enumeration and lateral movement, tools like ldeep, described as “an in-depth LDAP enumeration utility,” and rubeus, focused on “raw Kerberos interaction and abuses,” contribute further.

While these tools may appeal to ethical hackers, the level of expertise required to operate them effectively can act as a limiting factor for beginners.

Among the most visible quality-of-life improvements is the integration of the new GNOME VPN IP extension, which allows direct viewing of the VPN IP address from the panel.

Though this feature is convenient, it is not spectacular, and it best remains a fringe addition.

This new update also supports GNOME 48 and KDE Plasma 6.3 desktop environments.

Raspberry Pi users now have a new update that combines some Raspberry Pi OS images, eliminating the need for a separate image for the Raspberry Pi 5.

This update also introduces Kali NetHunter CARsenal, a dedicated suite for automotive security analysis.

While it remains one of the best Linux distros for ethical hacking, some users may still prefer Linux alternatives that lean more toward security or integrate more seamlessly with network monitoring tools.

Via 9to5linux

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Hackers could trick users into downloading malware and opening malicious sites using a flaw in Android - here's what you need to know

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• Hackers are using invisible Unicode to trick Android into opening dangerous links from notifications
• The link looks normal, but Android secretly opens something else without warning or consent
• Even trusted apps like WhatsApp and Instagram are vulnerable to this hidden notification exploit

---

A security flaw in Android’s notification system could allows malicious actors to deceive users into opening unintended links or triggering hidden app actions, experts have warned.

Research from io-no claims the flaw lies in how Android parses certain Unicode characters within notifications.

This creates a mismatch between what users see and what the system processes when the "Open Link" suggestion appears.

What you see isn’t always what you get

The problem stems from the use of invisible or special Unicode characters embedded within URLs.

When included in a message, these characters can cause Android to interpret the visible text and the actual actionable link differently.

For instance, a notification might visibly display “amazon.com,” but the underlying code actually opens “zon.com,” with an inserted zero-width space character.

The notification displays as "ama[]zon.com," including the hidden character. However, the suggestion engine interprets that hidden character as a separator, which results in it launching an entirely different site.

In some cases, attackers can redirect users not just to websites but also to deep links that interact directly with apps.

The report showed how a seemingly harmless shortened URL led to a WhatsApp call.

To make attacks less detectable, malicious actors can use URL shorteners and embed links into trusted-looking text.

The flaw becomes particularly dangerous when combined with app links or “deep links” that can silently trigger behaviors such as initiating messages, calls, or opening internal app views without user intent.

Tests on devices including the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, Samsung Galaxy S25, and older Android versions revealed that this misbehavior affects major apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Instagram, Discord, and Slack.

Custom apps were also used to bypass character filtering and validate the attack across multiple scenarios.

Given the nature of this flaw, many standard defenses may fall short. Even the best antivirus solutions may miss these exploits, as they often don’t involve traditional malware downloads.

Instead, attackers manipulate UI behavior and exploit app link configurations. Therefore, there is a need for endpoint protection tools, which offer broader detection based on behavioral anomalies.

For users at risk of credential theft or app abuse, relying on identity theft protection services becomes critical to monitor unauthorized activity and secure exposed personal data.

Until a formal fix is implemented, Android users should remain cautious with notifications and links, especially those from unfamiliar sources or URL shorteners.

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Criminals could pick up your voice through a foot-thick concrete wall, thanks to AI and a flaw in popular laptop microphones - here's what you need to know

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• AI can now reconstruct speech through concrete using just a laptop’s unshielded microphone wiring
• Laptop mic cables double as antennas, leaking audio through radio harmonics
• MEMS microphones emit signals that betray private conversations without any system compromise or malware

---

A new form of eavesdropping uses artificial intelligence to recover speech from devices through walls.

A report by eeNews outline how it exploits a vulnerability in widely used MEMS (microelectromechanical systems) microphones, and the most affected devices are laptops, due in part to their internal wiring design.

Researchers from the University of Florida and Japan’s University of Electro-Communications demonstrated even through a 25 cm concrete barrier, attackers can accurately reconstruct speech using nothing more than an FM receiver, a copper antenna, and machine learning tools.

So, why laptops?

(Image credit: eeNews)

The microphones in many laptops are connected via long, unshielded wires, effectively turning them into antennas, the researchers note.

“With an FM radio receiver and a copper antenna, you can eavesdrop on these microphones. That’s how easy this can be…It costs maybe a hundred dollars, or even less,” said Prof. Sara Rampazzi at the University of Florida.

The research revealed an accuracy of up to 94.2% in recognizing spoken digits, while OpenAI’s generative models achieved a transcription error rate as low as 6.5%.

The researchers examined several MEMS microphones, including the MP34DT01-M from STMicroelectronics, Knowles SPM0405 (now Synaptics), TDK InvenSense CS-41350 and T3902, and Vesper’s VM3000 (now part of Qualcomm).

These microphones emit electromagnetic signals that can leak acoustic data through radio harmonics.

According to STMicroelectronics, “this is an intrinsic behavior of Digital PDM MEMS microphones,” and the design used in laptops often lacks shielding, turning flat cables into ideal antennas.

To mitigate this risk, experts recommend relocating microphones within laptops to reduce cable length and shielding the wires. They also propose using spread spectrum clocking to reduce the intelligibility of emissions without affecting performance.

These fixes are relatively simple, but they are relevant for newer devices moving forward. What about pre-existing devices, then?

Regular users need to invest in the best antivirus or endpoint protection solutions, which offer some protection even though they are not explicitly listed to defend against this new threat.

These tools typically operate at the software level and may not detect passive attacks that don’t involve code execution or system compromise.

For individuals seeking the best identity theft protection, this research shows that even conversations assumed to be private may be within reach of sophisticated, low-cost surveillance.

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Building brand credibility and community through country code top level domains

To succeed in the digital age, businesses must not only establish a strong online presence but continuously adapt their digital strategy as the virtual landscape evolves.

While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for rapid business expansion, a practical and impactful step is the use of country code top-level domains, or ccTLDs, to build consumer trust and enhance local visibility.

Subject to some regional requirements, these domains - such as .ai for Anguilla or .au for Australia - offer a simple yet effective way to signal geographic relevance and credibility.

Despite the growing convenience of modern search tools, the value of country code top-level domains (ccTLDs) remains largely untapped.

Often perceived as minor variations at the end of a URL, ccTLDs in fact play a crucial role in branding, security, economic development, and regional search engine optimisation (SEO).

Modern registry services and registrar tools offer streamlined management, making it surprisingly efficient for businesses to expand their global digital footprint while maintaining local relevance.

Local loyalty: Building consumer trust and visibility

To attract customers in new regions, building a trustworthy brand is essential. Without trust, business growth is unlikely.

Country code top-level domains (ccTLDs) serve as a signal of credibility, increasing the likelihood that customers will not only make a visit but also return and potentially make a purchase.

According to au Domain Administration’s (auDA) “Why .au” survey, half of Australians only buy from online businesses with a .au domain.

Moreover, three in four Australians are more likely to trust a business if its website ends in .au, underscoring the powerful role domain names play in fostering consumer confidence.

For businesses expanding into new markets, a localised domain name demonstrates long-term commitment to the region and signals an intention to build lasting customer relationships.

Customising the website to reflect local culture and language further enhances this connection, delivering a more personalised, hyperlocal experience for both new and returning visitors.

Equally important, using a relevant ccTLD can sometimes improve a site's ranking in region-specific search engine results - boosting organic visibility and driving growth. Search engines often use ccTLDs as a strong geographic signal, helping them to serve relevant content to users in specific regions.

Trend-setters: Harnessing trend-driven ccTLDs

Although traditionally used to signal geographic relevance, ccTLDs are increasingly proving their value on the global stage.

Amid shifting global trends and surging interest in emerging technologies, certain ccTLDs have evolved into powerful marketing tools - delivering substantial economic benefits to their countries of origin. A prime example of this is Anguilla’s now-coveted .ai domain.

As artificial intelligence (AI) has gained global prominence, demand for the .ai domain has surged - growing nearly 400% over the past five years. This rapid adoption has generated substantial revenue for Anguilla.

The Independent reported that, in 2023 alone, .ai accounted for about 20% of Anguilla’s total government revenue. The same article revealed that this windfall has helped fund vital national projects, including airport expansion, improved healthcare for the elderly, and accelerated development of the island’s vocational training centre.

Anguilla is not an isolated case. Other nations have also reaped economic rewards from their ccTLDs - such as .tv for Tuvalu, .pr for Puerto Rico, and .ly for Libya.

In a crowded digital landscape, these domains allow brands to differentiate themselves and quickly convey their niche. This clarity is especially powerful when it comes to driving growth and establishing a strong, memorable presence online.

ccTLDs can also be chosen for their strategic relevance to a specific industry or offering, even if they aren't globally viral. For instance, a one-to-one business might find a .me (Montenegro) or a local artisan in Italy might prioritize a .it for credibility within their local community.

Universal acceptance: How ccTLDs preserve community

Beyond boosting national economies and enhancing consumer trust, ccTLDs also serve as digital homes for smaller communities and cultures.

While widely spoken languages like English, Spanish, and Chinese dominate the web, approximately 3,078 of the world’s 7,168 living languages are classified as endangered as of 2023.

In the effort to preserve cultural heritage, it's essential that the internet remains inclusive - free from limitations based on language or geographic origin. This is where ccTLDs play a vital role in supporting linguistic and cultural diversity online.

At the heart of this mission is the principle of Universal Acceptance - the idea that all domain names and email addresses should function seamlessly across every internet-connected device and software, without technical barriers or bias.

In this context, ccTLDs act as digital beacons, enabling diverse communities to establish an online presence that reflects their unique identity.

For small and medium-sized businesses, using a ccTLD isn't just about reaching customers - it’s about fostering a sense of belonging. By choosing a domain that resonates with a specific cultural or regional audience, these businesses can build not only a customer base, but a community.

The enduring importance of ccTLDs

ccTLDs offer businesses a unique opportunity to build trust, enhance local visibility, and connect authentically with diverse communities.

Beyond their traditional role in indicating geographic relevance, ccTLDs have evolved into powerful tools for branding, economic growth, and cultural preservation. By strategically leveraging ccTLDs, businesses can not only stand out in a crowded digital landscape but also position themselves for sustained success both locally and globally.

To explore how a specific ccTLD can strategically enhance your brand's localized strategy and serve as a powerful asset in your digital toolkit, begin by researching the availability and relevance of domains in your target markets.

This article was produced as part of TechRadarPro's Expert Insights channel where we feature the best and brightest minds in the technology industry today. The views expressed here are those of the author and are not necessarily those of TechRadarPro or Future plc. If you are interested in contributing find out more here: https://www.techradar.com/news/submit-your-story-to-techradar-pro

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The TSA has issued an urgent warning about criminals using fake USB charging ports, free Wi-Fi honeypots to steal your identity ahead of summer holidays

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• TSA warns public USB ports can be loaded with malware that silently steals your data without detection
• "Juice jacking" attacks can capture text messages, contact lists, and even keystrokes from your device
• Free Wi-Fi may cost nothing, but it could be the gateway to losing your identity

---

As millions of Americans prepare for summer vacation, the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has issued a timely cybersecurity alert warning travelers about criminal tactics designed to steal personal information.

The risk include tampered USB charging stations at airports and fake public Wi-Fi networks.

The former, know as “juice jacking,” sees cybercriminals install malware on public USB charging stations - once a user plugs in their phone, the compromised port can silently transmit malware or extract data from the device.

Public USB ports and free Wi-Fi risks

The warning comes amid heightened concerns about identity theft and digital surveillance as more people rely on connected devices while traveling.

Though some skeptics argue that widespread, confirmed cases are rare, the theoretical risk remains a concern for cybersecurity professionals.

When a USB port serves both data and power functions, an attacker could modify the circuit or insert a small data-sniffing implant inside the terminal, allowing them to harvest contact lists, text messages, and even keystrokes, depending on the vulnerability of the device.

To reduce exposure, the TSA recommends travelers use their own wall adapters or power banks, or simply avoid direct USB connections through untrusted sources.

Another tactic flagged by the TSA involves free public Wi-Fi networks.

These so-called "honeypot" networks appear legitimate, often named after the airport or airline, but are controlled by criminals.

Once connected, the attacker can perform a man-in-the-middle attack, intercepting all the data a traveler transmits, including credit card numbers, passwords, and business logins.

In more advanced cases, they might inject fake web pages that trick users into revealing credentials.

This attack can slip through the strongest passwords and cause identity theft, therefore, it is important for users to have their virtual private networks (VPNs) and ensure their devices are protected with the best identity theft protection software.

If you must use a public Wi-Fi, the TSA warns that you should never “enter any sensitive info while using unsecure WiFi.”

This advice aligns with broader recommendations often found in best antivirus and endpoint protection guides, which frequently emphasize physical device safety in addition to digital security tools.

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