Tech expert Kurt Knutsson, known as “CyberGuy,” recently appeared on “Fox & Friends First” to discuss Apple’s latest iPhone update designed to combat unwanted text messages and provide guidance on protecting against artificial intelligence-driven cyber threats.
The new iPhone update introduces enhanced filtering capabilities specifically targeting spam messages, which have become increasingly problematic for mobile users. This feature comes at a time when consumers face growing concerns about digital security and privacy.
Spam Filtering Technology
According to Knutsson, the update includes advanced algorithms that can identify and automatically filter out suspicious messages before they reach users’ main inboxes. This technology analyzes message patterns, sender information, and content to determine which texts are legitimate and which are potential spam.
The filtering system works by segregating suspicious messages into a separate folder, allowing users to review them later if needed while keeping their primary message inbox clean and organized. This approach helps prevent users from falling victim to phishing attempts and other text-based scams.
Rising AI-Powered Cyber Threats
During his appearance, Knutsson highlighted the growing sophistication of cyber attacks powered by artificial intelligence. These attacks use AI to create more convincing phishing attempts, realistic-sounding scam calls, and targeted messaging that can fool even security-conscious users.
“AI has dramatically changed the cybersecurity landscape,” Knutsson explained. “Attackers now use these tools to create personalized scams that appear legitimate and bypass traditional security measures.”
The tech expert noted that AI-powered attacks can analyze social media profiles and other public information to craft highly personalized messages that reference real details from a person’s life, making them particularly dangerous.
Protection Strategies Against AI Threats
Knutsson shared several key strategies for protecting against AI-powered cyber attacks:
- Enable multi-factor authentication on all important accounts
- Regularly update devices and applications to patch security vulnerabilities
- Be skeptical of unexpected messages, even if they appear to come from known contacts
- Verify requests for sensitive information through separate communication channels
He also recommended using password managers to create and store strong, unique passwords for each online account, reducing the risk of credential-based attacks.
“The best defense is a combination of technology and awareness,” Knutsson stated. “No single tool can protect you completely, but staying informed about current threats and using available security features significantly reduces your risk.”
For iPhone users specifically, Knutsson advised exploring the full range of security settings available in iOS, including the new message filtering options, privacy controls for apps, and built-in security features like Lockdown Mode for those at high risk of targeted attacks.
The update comes as part of Apple’s ongoing efforts to enhance user security across its ecosystem. The company has increasingly positioned privacy and security as key differentiators for its products in recent years.
Security experts generally view the new spam filtering capabilities as a positive step, though they caution that no automated system can catch all malicious messages. Users are still advised to remain vigilant and report suspicious communications that make it through the filters.
As AI technology continues to evolve, both offensive and defensive security measures are expected to advance rapidly. Tech companies and security researchers remain engaged in an ongoing technological arms race with cybercriminals who quickly adapt to new protections.
For now, the combination of improved technical safeguards and user education represents the most effective approach to maintaining digital security in an increasingly complex threat environment.
