Authenticator app Archives

Tech Optimizer

October 24, 2025

Why Aren’t Antivirus Programs Enough To Protect Crypto?

Cryptocurrency has introduced a decentralized approach to financial transactions, but it faces significant security challenges, including vulnerability to cyberattacks, theft, and fraud. Traditional antivirus software has limitations, such as reliance on signature-based detection, which struggles against emerging and polymorphic malware. Behavioral detection methods also have shortcomings, as stealth malware can disguise itself and conditional activation can evade detection. Fileless malware techniques and human error, such as phishing and weak password hygiene, further complicate security. To enhance security, cryptocurrency users should adopt a multi-layered strategy that includes using hardware wallets for offline storage of private keys, implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA), and utilizing dedicated anti-malware tools. Safe browsing habits and regular software patches are also essential, along with securely backing up private keys.

Tech Optimizer

October 23, 2025

Delete the fake VPN app stealing Android users’ money

Malware targeting Android devices has become more sophisticated, with cybercriminals deploying fake banking applications and phishing campaigns. A recently identified dangerous app, Mobdro Pro IP TV + VPN, introduces a malware strain called Klopatra, which is used in campaigns against financial institutions. This app appears to be a free streaming platform but installs a banking Trojan and remote-access tool, allowing attackers to steal banking credentials and conduct fraudulent transactions. The infection process involves social engineering tactics to trick users into downloading the app from unofficial sources, and Klopatra can bypass Android's security measures. The rise of fake VPNs, like Mobdro, poses a significant risk, as many users rely on VPNs for privacy and security. Users are advised to take protective measures, including downloading apps only from trusted sources, checking app permissions, using secure VPNs, installing strong antivirus software, monitoring accounts, removing suspicious apps, keeping devices updated, changing passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and reporting malicious apps.

AppWizard

October 15, 2025

Think You’re Safe? Hackers Can Now Peek at Every Password You Type on Android

Android smartphones are being targeted by malware named "Pixnapping," which uses pixel-stealing technology to extract information directly from the screen without requiring elevated permissions. This malware captures repeated background screenshots to read pixels, allowing it to surveil sensitive information such as messages, passwords, and two-factor authentication (2FA) codes. The extracted data is transmitted to a remote server controlled by attackers, enabling them to infiltrate accounts and perform actions like altering settings or making purchases. The malware's effectiveness varies by device, with a recovery rate of 53% for 2FA codes on the Pixel 9 and 73% on the Pixel 6. A vulnerability in Android APIs, designated as CVE-2025-48561, is exploited by this malware. Google was notified of the vulnerability in February and issued a partial fix in September, but the issue remains unresolved. Users are advised to keep their devices updated, enable built-in protections, avoid unverified apps, and consider hardware-based two-factor authentication for enhanced security.

AppWizard

September 24, 2025

Rapid7: OnePlus phones vulnerable to SMS theft since 2021

A significant security vulnerability affecting OnePlus smartphones has been identified, persisting since late 2021. The flaw, tracked as CVE-2025-10184 and rated with a severity of 8.2, allows applications to access SMS and MMS data without user consent, particularly in versions of OxygenOS released after December 7, 2021. Devices running OxygenOS 11 are unaffected. The vulnerability arises from sensitive internal content providers being accessible without proper permissions, making them susceptible to SQL injection attacks, and it operates discreetly without user alerts. Exploitation could bypass SMS-based multi-factor authentication protections, granting access to personal messages. Rapid7 has reported that OnePlus has not engaged in discussions to remediate the issue despite multiple outreach attempts, leading to the public disclosure of the vulnerability. Users are advised to take precautionary measures, such as installing applications from trusted sources and transitioning to authenticator app-based MFA.

AppWizard

July 6, 2025

Microsoft app to delete all passwords forever – how to avoid losing yours

Microsoft Authenticator will remove its password-saving function by August 2025, resulting in the deletion of all password data stored within the app. Users are advised to export their passwords to alternative locations, such as the Microsoft Edge browser, which will become the primary password management solution. Passwords will not be encrypted during the transfer, so it is recommended to delete the exported file afterward. The shift is part of Microsoft's move towards using passkeys for enhanced security, which allows quicker sign-ins using biometric data.

Winsage

June 6, 2025

Windows Weekly 935: Don’t Spritz Yourself

Leo and Paul discuss various topics on the latest episode of Windows Weekly, including Notepad, updates in Windows 11, Microsoft 365, artificial intelligence, and Xbox gaming. A new free newsletter offers time-saving tips and complimentary Field Guides for Windows 11 and Windows 10. Microsoft is reorganizing its AI initiatives and phasing out password management features in the Microsoft Authenticator app. The upcoming June 2025 update for Outlook will introduce new features, and Microsoft 365 Copilot now has general availability for Research and Analyst AI agents. The New York Times has licensed its content to Amazon, and Samsung is reconsidering its partnership with Gemini. Microsoft has delayed the launch of its first-party Xbox and Windows gaming handheld and has secured its first agreement with a game studio union. J Allard, a former Microsoft executive, is among many ex-Microsoft leaders now at Amazon. A tip suggests replacing OneDrive/Google Drive with a NAS, and Microsoft Edge 137 is highlighted as a significant update. Photoshop for Android is now available for free during its beta phase.

Winsage

May 2, 2025

Microsoft pushes unphishable logins forward with new sign-in options

Microsoft is making passwordless logins the default method for new account sign-ins, promoting passkeys as an alternative to traditional passwords. This initiative is part of a collaboration with Google and Apple under the FIDO Alliance to enhance security and streamline the login process. New users will have passkeys set as their default sign-in method, while existing users will be prompted to switch during their next login. The shift to passkeys aims to address issues related to password management and security vulnerabilities. However, users must install the Microsoft Authenticator app to fully transition to a passwordless experience, as compatibility with other authentication apps is not supported. Without the app, users cannot completely eliminate their login passwords, which may reduce the security benefits of using passkeys.

AppWizard

August 9, 2024

Google Authenticator redesign adds a ‘Privacy screen’ lock and search

Google has rolled out version 7.0 of its Authenticator app, featuring a redesign aligned with Material 3 aesthetics. Key updates include a Privacy Screen that requires lock screen credentials for access, enhancing security, and a search option for easier navigation of app features. The QR code scanner has been upgraded with a flash option for low-light conditions. Last year, Google began storing one-time codes within user accounts instead of on devices, aiming for a "passwordless" future, while still allowing users to disable sync or avoid signing into a Google account. The updated version is available for download through the Play Store.