app permissions Archives

Tech Optimizer

July 24, 2026

CrashStealer Mac malware steals passwords and wallets

A sophisticated new malware targeting Mac users, named CrashStealer, has been discovered by security researchers at Jamf Threat Labs. It masquerades as Apple's legitimate crash-reporting software and was first identified in May 2026, with active attacks detected by early July. CrashStealer is designed to extract sensitive information, including browser credentials, password manager data, and cryptocurrency wallet information, and can copy the Mac login Keychain. It uses native C++ programming, encrypts collected files, and employs anti-debugging features. The malware is distributed through a disk image labeled "Werkbit Setup," which features a polished installer that bypasses Mac security warnings by using a valid Apple Developer ID and notarization ticket. Once opened, it connects to GitHub for commands and downloads a script that installs a second disk image named CrashReporter.dmg, which mimics an Apple system component. CrashStealer presents a fake password prompt resembling a legitimate macOS request, verifying entered passwords locally. It targets data linked to various browsers and password managers, scanning for approximately 80 cryptocurrency wallet extensions and 14 password managers. Stolen data is stored in hidden folders, encrypted using AES-256-GCM, and packaged into hidden ZIP archives before being uploaded. Warning signs of infection include a website requiring a meeting PIN for download, unexpected password prompts, and unfamiliar apps requesting Full Disk Access. Users are advised to download apps from verified sources, avoid overriding security warnings, pause before entering passwords, review app permissions, install security updates, use antivirus software, and act quickly if they installed Werkbit Setup.

Winsage

July 18, 2026

Windows 11 bug hogging over 70GB of SSD storage, Microsoft confirms

Microsoft has acknowledged a bug in Windows 11 related to the Capability Access Manager (camsvc) that causes significant storage issues for users. The bug leads to an abnormal increase in the size of the CapabilityAccessManager.db-wal SQLite Write-Ahead Log file, which typically should be a few megabytes but has been reported to grow to 70-80 GB, and in some cases, over 200 GB or even up to 500 GB. This growth depletes available SSD space without any new files being added by users. The issue was highlighted by a user on the Microsoft Q&A forum, prompting others to check their disk space and find similar problems. Additionally, Windows Storage Settings misreported capacity usage. Microsoft confirmed the bug and released a hotfix in the KB5095093 update, urging users to install it to prevent further expansion of the log file.

Winsage

July 15, 2026

Windows 11’s 500GB storage bug is fixed. How to check if you’re good

Microsoft's July Patch Tuesday update addressed a significant storage issue for Windows 11 users related to the CapabilityAccessManager.db-wal file, which had been consuming excessive storage space, with reports of usage reaching up to 500 GB. The bug originated from the Capability Access Manager service, which normally allows the file to occupy only a few megabytes. Update KB5101650 was released to fix this issue, improving disk space usage for the file. However, it is unclear if existing oversized WAL files will automatically resize. Users are advised to check the size of their WAL file using the Command Prompt or third-party tools, and if it remains large, to delete it following the update documentation.

Tech Optimizer

July 15, 2026

Can Chromebooks Get Viruses? How to Protect Your Device

Chromebooks are designed with robust security features, including sandboxing, Verified Boot, automatic updates, data encryption, and Recovery Mode, which collectively reduce the risk of malware infections. However, they are still vulnerable to threats such as malicious Chrome extensions, scam Android apps from third-party stores, phishing attacks, and risks associated with using Developer Mode and cloud storage. Users can identify potential malware through signs like slow performance, unexpected pop-ups, and unusual battery drain. To remove malware, users should eliminate suspicious extensions, uninstall dubious apps, run antivirus scans, enable Google Play Protect, or perform a Powerwash to reset the device. To protect their Chromebooks, users should avoid Developer Mode, check app permissions, use two-factor authentication, verify website URLs, and use a VPN on public Wi-Fi.

Winsage

July 9, 2026

Microsoft Confirms Windows 11 Bug That Can Consume Over 500GB of Storage Through Permission Log File

Microsoft has acknowledged a bug in Windows 11 that causes the Capability Access Manager's write-ahead log file to expand indefinitely, potentially exceeding 500GB of storage on affected devices. This issue is addressed in update KB5095093, which includes builds 26200.8737 and 26100.8737. Users can manually install this update via the optional updates section of Windows Update or wait for its automatic rollout during the July 2026 Patch Tuesday. The Capability Access Manager manages app permissions and logs usage of privacy-sensitive features, but the WAL file continues to grow unchecked on affected systems. The file can reach sizes from 70GB to over 513GB. To check if a system is affected, users can check storage settings or use Robocopy to verify the file size. The update is available through the Optional updates section and will be included in the cumulative update on July 8, 2026. The excessive size of the WAL file can lead to critical storage shortages and related issues, but it does not compromise the security or core functionality of the permission system. Microsoft has not confirmed if Windows 11 26H1 Insider builds are affected.

Tech Optimizer

July 7, 2026

7 Habits That Are More Important Than Using Antivirus on Your Phone

Antivirus software was once standard on personal computers, but modern smartphones have evolved with enhanced security measures from Apple and Google, making them less vulnerable to traditional malware. Smartphones isolate applications, allowing them only to access user-permitted information, and if a malicious app infiltrates, it faces significant challenges due to built-in defenses. Apple requires thorough vetting of apps through the App Store, which enhances security but limits antivirus capabilities. Android allows sideloading apps from outside the Google Play Store, which introduces risks but also includes built-in security features like Google Play Protect and regular updates. Despite these advancements, smartphones can still be compromised, and cybercriminals increasingly target user accounts through phishing tactics rather than malware. Security experts recommend focusing on phishing awareness, strong passwords, and two-factor authentication. For enhanced security, users should keep devices updated, download apps from official sources, review app permissions, use strong passwords, utilize a password manager, enable two-factor authentication, and be cautious with unexpected communications. While most users may not need antivirus apps, those who frequently sideload or download from unfamiliar sites may benefit from additional security tools.

Winsage

July 7, 2026

Microsoft fixes storage-hogging Windows 11 folder

Microsoft has released an optional update, KB5095093, in June 2026 to address a storage issue affecting Windows 11 users related to the CapabilityAccessManager.db-wal file, which manages app permissions. Users have reported the file size increasing significantly, with some reaching up to 500GB, due to continuous logging of access requests and privacy controls. To install the update, users should go to Settings, select “Windows Update,” then “Advanced options,” and check for optional updates.

Tech Optimizer

July 7, 2026

Why Anti Malware and Antivirus Solutions still matter despite Google Play Protect

Google Play Protect is a security feature integrated within the Google Play Store that scans installed applications for malicious behavior, verifies apps before download, and can disable or remove harmful software. Its primary limitation is its focus on apps from the Google Play Store, leaving users who install APK files from third-party sources at risk. Modern cyber threats include phishing links, counterfeit login pages, and social engineering techniques, which Google Play Protect does not fully address. Dedicated antivirus applications offer real-time threat detection, privacy protection, and additional features such as monitoring excessive app permissions and dark web credential leaks. For business users, mobile security platforms provide advanced capabilities like enforcing corporate policies and detecting zero-day threats. While Google Play Protect is sufficient for many users, those handling sensitive information or seeking enhanced protection should consider additional antivirus solutions. Best practices for cybersecurity include downloading apps from trusted sources, keeping software updated, and using strong passwords.

Winsage

July 6, 2026

A Windows 11 bug can eat 500GB of your storage. Here’s how to check

A hidden bug in Windows 11 can consume up to 500 GB of storage due to the CapabilityAccessManager.db-wal file, which should only occupy a few megabytes but can grow significantly on certain systems. Users can check for this issue using applications like TreeSize or by executing a command in the Windows Command Prompt. Microsoft has acknowledged the problem and provided a fix in the optional June 2026 update, with a broader rollout planned for the July Patch Tuesday update. Users are advised not to modify or delete the file to avoid further complications.

Winsage

July 6, 2026

Microsoft admits a Windows 11 bug is eating up to 500GB of storage, verify if you are affected

To check for excessive storage consumption in Windows 11, navigate to Settings > Storage > System & Reserved. A file named CapabilityAccessManager.db-wal can cause significant storage issues, potentially consuming hundreds of gigabytes. This file is associated with the Windows Capability Access Manager service, which manages app permissions for features like microphone and camera access. Normally, this file should occupy only a few megabytes, but reports indicate it can expand to sizes like 200GB or even 513GB. Microsoft acknowledged this issue in the release notes for Windows 11 KB5095093, stating that an update to improve disk space usage for this file is scheduled for July 14, 2026. To check if your system is affected, tools like WizTree or TreeSize can be used, or a command can be executed in Command Prompt to verify the file size. If the file is excessively large, it is recommended to wait for the update or rename the file to allow Windows to regenerate it, rather than deleting it.