Beyond Connected

CyberGuy

Get ready to go Beyond Connected. I'm Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson, and my new podcast explores the surprising ways technology shapes our everyday lives - from the gadgets we trust to the risks we don't see coming. Each episode pulls back the curtain on the breakthroughs, stories, and people redefining how we live, work, and stay safe in a digital world.

  1. HACE 16 H

    [Ep. 24] Text Scams, Deepfakes & Outdated Computers: Your Biggest Cybersecurity Questions Answered

    Today on Beyond Connected, we're answering your biggest cybersecurity questions - from suspicious texts to deepfake scams and outdated computers. Are you unknowingly putting your personal data at risk? Let's break it all down. In This Episode: Is this text message a scam? Here's how to find out. Is a dedicated financial computer a smart idea? If you do it right, yes! How do I saved my loved one from a deepfake impersonation or romance scam? This one's tricky...I'll walk you through it. Shouldn't the FTC help with these impersonation scams? Yes, but it's not that simple. How do I know if my computer is too old? I've got a nifty list you can reference to find out if your operating system is too old. And if it is, you may be at risk.  Thanks for sending in these fantastic questions! If you have a question about data privacy, technology, cybersecurity, or scams, feel free to leave us a message! Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.  Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.

    19 min

  2. 18 MAR

    [Ep. 23] Police thought she was a porch pirate… Then the Security Camera told the truth

    In this episode of Beyond Connected, we speak with Chrisanna Elser, whose life took a shocking turn when a police officer knocked on her door and accused her of stealing a package from a nearby home. Lucky for her, she was the perfect person to fight this kind of case. Using footage from her dash cam, surveillance systems, and even her Google Timeline, she quickly assembled the evidence to prove her innocence.  What began as a simple misunderstanding quickly revealed deeper questions about how surveillance technology is used, how much we rely on it, and what happens when the system gets it wrong. In this episode, we explore • How license plate reader technology identified the wrong person • What happened when police refused to review evidence that proved innocence • How personal technology helped build a defense • The surprising role of Google Timeline in clearing her name • Why surveillance tools need guardrails and oversight • The hidden risks of modern surveillance technology • What you should do to protect yourself if technology falsely accuses you   Chrisanna's story raises a powerful question for the digital age. If technology can be used to accuse you, should you also be using technology to defend yourself? Watch the full conversation to hear how one woman turned the tables on a false accusation and what we can all learn about privacy, surveillance and digital evidence.   Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.   Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.   Chapters 0:30 - Intro  3:20 - The Cop Showed up 5:19 - Police Build Weak Case 6:27 - Video Evidence Helps 6:50 - She Became a Detective 9:28 - She Calls Police Chief 10:50 - Court is the Only Path 12:41 - Her Persistence Wins 13:49 - Are Flock Cams Good? 14:30 - No Apologies Necessary  15:33 - Cops Continue Looking 15:58 - Her Email to Police Chief  17:07 - Surveillance Helped Her 18:20 - Cop Had Been Fired Before 19:36 - Cops Drop the Case 20:30 - Freedom of Info. Act  21:10 - She Could've Lost Everything 21:52 - Own Your Own Evidence  22:50 - Home Cameras Send Data  23:56 - Crime Never Solved  24:10 - Dark Side of Tech

    25 min

  3. 11 MAR

    [Ep. 22] Donny Osmond performs with his AI younger self in Las Vegas

    What would it feel like to perform a duet with your 14-year-old self?   In this episode, we sit down with entertainment icon Donny Osmond to talk about the surreal experience of sharing the Las Vegas stage with an AI powered digital version of himself. Using archival photos, voice samples from his teenage years, and next-generation stage technology, Donny is literally performing with his younger self in front of a live audience. But this conversation goes far beyond nostalgia.    Donny isn't just embracing new technology, he truly understands it. From AI and digital twins to fan apps and social media strategy, he's deeply engaged with the tools shaping hte future of entertainment. It's a fascinating look at how a legendary performer continues to reinvent himself in a world powered by technology.   We dive deep into AI ethics, artist rights, deepfake risks, fan apps, social media, space travel, and what it really means to reinvent yourself in the digital age.   This is a masterclass in staying relevant in a world powered by AI.   If you care about technology, creativity, AI ethics, digital twins, celebrity reinvention, or the future of entertainment, this one is for you.   In this episode, we cover: • How AI recreated 14-year-old Donny for a live Vegas show • The technology behind the holobox stage illusion • The ethics of AI in music and protecting artists • Whether AI is helping or hurting creative industries • Launching a dedicated fan app instead of relying only on social media • Thoughts on space travel and modern tech billionaires • Favorite gadgets, security upgrades, and smart home privacy   Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to ⁠www.getbeyondconnected.com⁠ to find the show on other platforms.   Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.   Chapters  0:30 - Intro 2:45 - Donny's Vegas Show 3:09 - Donny's Love of Tech 3:47 - Inside the Show  4:44 - Donny's Hands-On Approach 5:38 - Donny in Space 7:27 - AI Holobox Tech 9:03 - Live AI Tech  10:18 - The Donny App 12:00 - When Kurt Met Donny 12:44 - How AI Affects Artists 14:40 - Donny's Disney Career 16:20 - Donny's Reputation 16:50 - Lightning Round 18:06 - AI Driving v. Manual 18:56 - Donny Loves Nest Cameras 22:31 - Donny's Childhood Tech Obsession

    25 min

  4. 4 MAR

    [Ep. 21] Susan Powter: From "Stop the Insanity" fame to a tech-powered comeback

    In this powerful episode of Beyond Connected, we sit down with wellness icon Susan Powter for one of the most raw and inspiring conversations we've ever had. After disappearing from the spotlight at the height of her fame, Susan opens up about financial collapse, exploitation, isolation, and surviving rock bottom.   And there's one huge reason why this story belongs on our show: technology did not destroy her life. It helped save it.   This episode is about how digital platforms, technological autonomy, and direct to audience technology allowed Susan to rebuild her identity, income, and voice in a world that had moved on without her.   This is not just a comeback story. It is a survival story powered by the internet.   In this episode, we explore:   • How Susan started her viral infomercial career • Why she walked away at the height of her fame • How gig economy tech was her lifeline for years • The creator economy as a tool for independence and ownership • Turning audience connection into digital ownership • Why technology can be a tool for survival not distraction   Susan shares how she now uses TikTok, Instagram, podcasts, digital storefronts, and direct distribution to own her work, control her content, and rebuild on her terms.   "Stop the Insanity: Finding Susan Powter," executive produced by Jamie Lee Curtis, is now streaming on Amazon Prime. And her new book "And Then Em Died..." is available on Amazon for purchase.    Follow Susan on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/susanpowter/?hl=en Follow Susan on Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@susanpowter   Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.   Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.   Chapters 0:30 - Intro 2:00 - Stop the Insanity 3:25 - Welcome Susan Powter 5:10 - How Susan Got Started 7:16 - Behind-the-Scenes Issues 7:55 - Susan Walked Away 8:51 - The Original Influencer 9:36 - Celebrity Encounter 10:57 - Joan Rivers' Influence 12:22 - Susan's New Documentary 15:23 - Hitting Rock Bottom 18:31 - Susan's Energy Saved Her 20:22 - Reclaiming Her Voice  21:39 - New Doc Opening Doors 22:12 - How Susan Stayed Fit 23:51 - New Tech Fueled Comeback 24:40 - Inside Susan's New Book

    28 min

  5. 25 FEB

    [Ep. 20] How online scams work w/ Coinbase's Chief Security Officer

    Online scams are evolving fast, and everyday people are paying the price. In this episode, we invited Philip Martin, the Chief Security Officer at Coinbase, to chat about cybersecurity best practices and how to avoid the proliferation of scams online. We dig into how modern cybercrime actually works, from password reuse and data breaches to bank impersonation scams and social engineering attacks. You'll even hear a real-world story of a bank fraud scam that used two-factor authentication manipulation, identity theft tactics, and psychological pressure to steal money in minutes. We explore how technology, AI, and cryptocurrency are changing the cybersecurity landscape, and why blockchain transparency is actually a threat to criminals, especially in the highly-publicized kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie.  In this episode, you will learn: • How scammers use leaked passwords and data breaches to access bank accounts • Why reusing passwords is one of the biggest cybersecurity risks today • How bank impersonation scams and social engineering actually work • Why you should never trust inbound calls or texts about your finances • How two-factor authentication can protect you and how it can be exploited • The safest ways to verify calls from banks and financial institutions • Why password managers are essential for online security • How authenticator apps and security keys improve digital safety • How blockchain transactions are traceable and used in cybercrime investigations • The role of law enforcement, data privacy, and digital forensics in stopping fraud This episode is a must-watch for anyone who uses online banking, mobile payments, cryptocurrency, social media, or digital services. If you care about cybersecurity, online scams, identity theft, data privacy, and protecting your digital life, this conversation is for you. Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms. Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.   Chapters 0:30 - Intro 3:41 - Scams Are #1 Threat 4:18 - Impersonation Scams  6:56 - Everyone is Vulnerable 7:31 - Call Your Bank Directly  9:28 - Good Password Etiquette 10:39 - Use Password Managers 11:24 - Use Authentication Apps 12:04 - Consider a Security Key 13:58 - Authentication Apps 101 14:38 - Antivirus Recommendations 15:41 - Simplify Your Computer 16:10 - Nancy Guthrie Case 16:53 - Crypto is Transparent 18:58 - Is Crypto Traceable?

    21 min

  6. 18 FEB

    [Ep. 19] This school banned smartphones – the results stunned parents

    What really happens when a school decides to take smartphones out of students' hands? In this episode, we sit down with an education leader who made a bold move 2 years ago: removing smartphones from the school day. What followed was a huge increased in student focus, connection, and a complete shift in student culture. This is a real conversation about technology, attention, parenting, education, and how digital habits are shaping the next generation. If you care about tech, privacy, kids, mental health, learning, or modern digital life, this episode will change how you see screens forever. In this episode, we cover: Why smartphones were hurting learning and focus in school How schools can convince parents and students to get on board How phone-free policies reduce gossip, anxiety, and conflict What changed in student engagement and attention How schools can implement phone-free policies without chaos The impact on student confidence and self-esteem What parents are really saying about phone-free schools How technology can support learning without controlling it  Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.   Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.    Chapters (0:30) - Intro (2:45) - Meet Lori Kennedy  (5:15) - Student Engagement Down (5:33) - Researching & Planning (7:55) - Enforcing the Rule (10:30) - How Parents Reacted  (11:20) - How Students Reacted (12:30) - Did it Work? (14:30) - Less Bullying & Gossip (15:50) - Policy Attracting New Kids (16:50) - How Do I Implement This Rule?

    19 min

  7. 11 FEB

    [Ep. 18] Think you're safe from identity theft? 5 myths to rethink

    Online scams are exploding and identity theft at an unprecedented rate. In this episode of Beyond Connected, I'm breaking down five common myths about identity theft and explaining how scammers easily manipulate people using personal data, technology, and psychological pressure. This conversation dives into how cybercrime actually works today and why smart, careful people are still getting scammed every day.  In this episode, you will learn:  • Why identity theft usually starts quietly, with personal data you did not realize was public • How data brokers collect, sell, and resell your information without you noticing • Why not being part of a major data breach does not mean you are safe • How scammers use urgency, fear, and familiarity to trick victims into acting fast • Why retirees and families are among the most targeted groups for online scams • The truth about credit monitoring and what it does and does not protect • How strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and data removal services reduce risk • Why removing your information from data broker sites is one of the most powerful defenses • How deepfakes, voice cloning, and AI are making scams more convincing than ever.  If you care about cybersecurity, online scams, data privacy, identity theft protection, or how technology is shaping your digital life, this episode is a must-listen.  Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.  Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.

    21 min

  8. 4 FEB

    [Ep. 17] Deepfake romance scam cost her mother $80,000 and her home

    This episode is a warning for every family living in the age of AI.   An elderly Southern California woman named Abigail was targeted by a ruthless cyber scammer using deepfake video and impersonation tactics. The scam was so convincing that she believed she was in a real relationship with Steve Burton from General Hospital. What happened next is heartbreaking. Abigail was manipulated into sending money again and again until more than $81,000 was gone. Then the scam escalated even further. She was pressured into selling her paid off home, leaving her evicted and devastated.   Abigail's daughter Vivian joins us to share the story step by step, including the biggest red flags, how scammers isolate victims from family, why these cyber scams are so hard to spot in real time, and how AI deepfakes are changing the scam game forever. If you think you or your loved ones could never fall for something like this, think again. These criminals are using advanced technology, social engineering, and psychological manipulation to target vulnerable people and steal everything.   We also kick off the episode with a look at the future of transportation and technology, including Uber's new robotaxi fleet and what it means for self driving cars across the United States.   If you care about technology, cybersecurity, online scams, data privacy, identity theft, and staying safe from AI powered fraud, this episode is a must watch.   Enjoying the show? Take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe. Head over to www.getbeyondconnected.com to find the show on other platforms.   Have a question for Kurt? Call 877-655-KURT and leave a voicemail.    (0:30) - Intro (3:30) - Uber Robotaxis (7:00) - The Victim's Daughter Vivian (8:03) - How Vivian Discovered Scam (9:15) - How Scammers Groom Victims (9:47) - Discovering the Scam Cont'd  (11:11) - Scammer Used Deepfake Video (12:29) - Scammer Used Romance Angle  (13:31) - Red Flag #1  (14:36) - Lonely People Targeted (15:15) - The Plot Thickens  (17:08) - Reaching out to LAPD  (19:02) - Scammer Stole Victim's Home (21:41) - Sleazy Realtor Took Advantage (23:54) - Eviction Coming (23:59) - Vivian Gets Legal Advice (24:29) - Vivian Hires Attorney (25:20) - Vivian Hires New Attorney (26:24)  - Vivian Hires 3rd Attorney (27:02) - Power of Attorney  (28:40) - Parents Evicted (29:18) - Court Battle Continues (30:37) - Anybody Can Be Scammed (31:18) - Vivian's Advice (32:47) - Warning Signs (33:25) - Delete Your Data (33:51) - Get Antivirus (34:28) - Dark Side of Tech (35:33) - Prevent AI Phishing

    37 min
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Get ready to go Beyond Connected. I'm Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson, and my new podcast explores the surprising ways technology shapes our everyday lives - from the gadgets we trust to the risks we don't see coming. Each episode pulls back the curtain on the breakthroughs, stories, and people redefining how we live, work, and stay safe in a digital world.

Información

  • Creador
    CyberGuy
  • Años de actividad
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodios
    24
  • Clasificación
    Apto
  • Copyright
    © 2025
  • Mostrar sitio web
    Beyond Connected

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