blockage Archives

Winsage

March 30, 2025

A Windows 11 update causes issues with some Lenovo laptops

Windows 11 has encountered issues affecting Lenovo ThinkPad laptops, where a recent security update has blocked the installation of a crucial BIOS update. This problem is linked to changes in the Vulnerable Driver Blocklist and modifications to the WinFlash64.exe file. Lenovo ThinkPad owners receive an error message when attempting to update their BIOS through the BIOS Update Utility or Vantage app. Lenovo is rolling out a new BIOS version 1.61 to address the issue and recommends using Windows Update for the BIOS update. Additionally, Microsoft is phasing out Windows 10, with support ending on October 14, 2025, and encouraging users to upgrade to Windows 11. Over 50% of Windows users still operate on Windows 10, despite the rise in Windows 11 users. Microsoft has been notifying Windows 10 users about potential security risks and offering a streamlined upgrade process to Windows 11, which can be done for free, though it may involve some downtime.

AppWizard

February 18, 2025

Elon Musk’s X blocking links to Signal messaging app

Social media platform X has implemented restrictions on links to the Signal messaging application, resulting in error messages when users attempt to share signal.me links through public posts, direct messages, or profile pages. This blockage also affects existing signal.me links. Signal, known for its end-to-end encryption, is commonly used by journalists and whistleblowers. X has previously restricted links to Facebook, Instagram, Mastodon, and Substack, despite Signal not being a direct competitor. Users can still share Signal handles on X, and a workaround exists by copy-pasting the link into Signal to bypass the restrictions.

AppWizard

February 18, 2025

X Blocks Signal Messenger Links Shared on Posts, DMs, and More—But Why?

Users are experiencing difficulties sharing links from Signal Messenger on Elon Musk's X platform, as these links appear to be blocked. Reports indicate that attempts to share Signal links result in various error messages, affecting public tweets and direct messages. There has been no official explanation from X regarding this restriction. Journalist Matt Binder noted that links to Signal have seemingly vanished from X, with users reporting similar issues. Error messages encountered range from generic notices to alerts labeling posts as harmful content or spam. While links already posted may carry warnings, they can still be accessed; however, links associated with Signal handles or the main website are currently inaccessible. Elon Musk previously endorsed Signal Messenger as a trustworthy alternative to WhatsApp, but the current blockage suggests a shift in his stance on secure messaging.