Additional layer of protection

AppWizard
February 19, 2025
Google is developing a feature for Chrome on Android that will allow the browser to scan downloaded APK files for malware. This feature is currently being tested in Chrome Canary and aims to provide an additional layer of protection alongside Google Play Protect, which already scans applications before installation. Users will receive notifications about the safety of their APK downloads, with a message indicating that the APK downloads are being checked for malware. This functionality is expected to enhance user confidence and reduce the risk of malware infiltration during the download process.
Winsage
December 27, 2024
Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 in October 2025, meaning it will no longer receive free security updates. To upgrade to Windows 11, a computer must support TPM 2.0, which many older devices lack. A report indicates that about one in five computers could be left behind due to this requirement, particularly those purchased before 2021. Users should check if their device supports TPM 2.0 and consider budgeting for a new computer if it does not.
AppWizard
December 23, 2024
McAfee's security team discovered a malicious app named "BMI CalculationVsn" in Amazon's Android Appstore, which pretended to be a health tracker but was capable of screen recording, password theft, and accessing private SMS messages. Following the report, Amazon removed the app from its platform, and users who downloaded it are advised to uninstall it immediately. McAfee recommends that Android users install reliable antivirus software, scrutinize permission requests before downloading apps, and monitor app behavior for unusual activity to enhance their security.
AppWizard
November 27, 2024
McAfee has identified 15 "predatory loan apps" on the Android platform that pose significant risks, having been downloaded over 8 million times globally. These apps exploit users through deceptive practices, often leading to financial distress. Users are advised to uninstall these applications, research apps before downloading, monitor app permissions, stay informed about cybersecurity news, and utilize security software for protection.
AppWizard
October 15, 2024
Google Play Protect has enhanced its security measures by requiring biometric verification or a PIN for users attempting to sideload apps. This aims to prevent the installation of unsafe applications on Android devices. The updated feature prompts users with a confirmation window when trying to install an unsafe APK file, requiring authentication. However, it may not activate in all cases. The feature has been in place for about two months and helps protect devices from potentially harmful applications, especially when someone else has temporary access to the device. For improved effectiveness, it would be beneficial for Google to prompt for authentication with every sideload attempt and allow users to control the frequency of these notifications.
Winsage
October 11, 2024
Domain Name Servers (DNS) translate domain names into numeric IP addresses. Users can customize their DNS settings, with popular alternatives including Cloudflare (1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1) and OpenDNS (208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220). Cloudflare offers features like malware blocking and content filtering, while OpenDNS provides optional blocks on phishing and adult content. To change DNS settings in Windows 10, users can either use the Command Prompt or the Control Panel. In the Command Prompt, users can view network interfaces with "netsh interface show interface" and set DNS with commands that specify the network name and desired DNS IPs. In the Control Panel, users can access network connections, right-click on the desired network, and enter DNS addresses under Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) settings. The process for changing DNS settings in Windows 11 is similar to that in Windows 10, allowing users to use either the Command Prompt or Control Panel.
Winsage
August 15, 2024
Windows 11 version 24H2 will enable BitLocker encryption by default for new installations and re-installations. BitLocker allows users to encrypt their hard drives for added security. Microsoft is revising the system requirements for BitLocker, removing the need for Hardware Security Test Interface (HSTI) or Modern Standby. During updates from version 23H2 to 24H2, encryption will not be automatically enabled, allowing users to update without access issues to their files.
Tech Optimizer
August 9, 2024
Apple released the iOS 17.6.1 update on August 7, 2024, to address a significant security concern related to the Advanced Data Protection (ADP) feature. The update includes important bug fixes and resolves issues preventing users from enabling or disabling ADP. Users who previously attempted to disable ADP will receive a notification after installing the update to confirm their preferences. The update also includes various other bug fixes and security enhancements. To update their devices, users can go to Settings > General > Software Update, and they can enable automatic updates in the Software Update menu.
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