Senior Cyber Safety Briefing — February 12, 2026
🛡️New and Emerging Cyber Threats You Need to Know About
Several brand-new cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities have been identified this week. These are not old warnings being recycled—these are fresh discoveries and active scam campaigns happening right now.
🚨 Critical Windows Security Vulnerabilities — Actively Exploited
Risk Level: VERY HIGH
Microsoft has just released security updates fixing multiple newly discovered vulnerabilities in Windows and Microsoft Office. Several of these flaws were already being used by hackers before the fixes became available.
This means criminals had a working method to break into computers before users even knew the threat existed.
These vulnerabilities can allow attackers to:
• Take control of your computer
• Install malware without your knowledge
• Steal passwords and personal information
What you should do immediately:
• Open Settings
• Go to Windows Update
• Click Check for Updates
• Install everything available
• Restart your computer
This is one of the most important protections you can apply today.
🌐 Chrome Browser Security Flaw — Emergency Fix Released
Risk Level: HIGH
Google has released an emergency update for the Chrome browser after discovering newly identified vulnerabilities that could allow hackers to execute malicious code on your computer.
Simply visiting a compromised website could expose your system if your browser is not updated.
What to do:
• Open Chrome
• Click the three dots in the upper right
• Click Help → About Chrome
• Allow it to update
• Restart Chrome
If Chrome updates automatically, you’re already protected—but restarting the browser ensures the protection is active.
✉️ New Microsoft Email Scam Campaign Spreading Rapidly
Risk Level: VERY HIGH
A brand-new scam campaign is circulating that sends emails pretending to be from Microsoft. These emails falsely claim your account will be shut down unless you act immediately.
Their goal is simple: scare you into clicking a malicious link and entering your password.
These emails often contain phrases like:
• “Your account will be closed today”
• “Immediate action required”
• “Verify your account now”
Important truth:
Microsoft does not randomly threaten account closure by email.
If you receive such an email, delete it immediately.
🍎 Apple Emergency Security Update — Real-World Attacks Confirmed
Risk Level: HIGH (Apple users)
Apple has released an emergency security update after discovering a vulnerability already being used in real-world attacks.
This flaw could allow attackers to run malicious code on affected devices.
If you use an iPhone, iPad, or Mac:
• Go to Settings
• Tap General
• Tap Software Update
• Install any available update
This closes the vulnerability immediately.
Why This Matters Especially to Seniors
Cybercriminals prefer targeting individuals they believe are less suspicious of official-looking emails and warnings.
These new threats rely heavily on fear, urgency, and outdated software.
The good news is that these threats are easily prevented with simple updates and awareness.
Bob The Cyber-Guy’s Immediate Protection Checklist
Do these today:
✔ Run Windows Update
✔ Update your browser
✔ Update your phone or tablet
✔ Delete threatening or suspicious emails
These four simple steps block the vast majority of current attacks.
Final Thought
The newest cyber threats don’t break in—they wait for an open door.
Installing updates and ignoring scam emails keeps that door firmly closed.
(I created the prompt, ChatGPT created the information.)
Stay aware. Stay updated. Stay safe.
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