breach

Tech Optimizer
May 31, 2025
Nearly half of Mac users have encountered viruses despite having protective software installed, challenging the belief that Apple products are immune to malware. The report highlights that 71% of Android users have antivirus software, but only 49% seek third-party tools. More than half of Americans do not use additional security measures beyond antivirus. Among iOS users, 38% are unaware of third-party antivirus options. While 84% have antivirus on computers, only 68% have it on smartphones and 60% on tablets. Despite widespread adoption, only 16% of antivirus users feel their software is ineffective. The virus encounter rates are 44% for Mac users, 36% for Windows users, and 30% for other platforms.
Tech Optimizer
May 28, 2025
M&S shoppers are being urged to enhance their online security following a cyber attack that disrupted customer services. The retailer has acknowledged ongoing challenges, stating they cannot process online orders while stores remain open. Sensitive customer information, including phone numbers, email addresses, and order histories, was compromised in the breach. Security expert Luis Corrons from Norton recommends activating two-step verification for online accounts, being cautious about stored personal and payment information, deleting unused accounts, using strong passwords, and keeping devices and software updated to improve security. He emphasizes that cyber threats are increasingly targeting human behavior and that these security measures are essential for digital safety.
Winsage
May 27, 2025
Microsoft has announced new protective measures against potential quantum-powered cyber threats by rolling out post-quantum cryptography (PQC) capabilities for Windows Insiders using Canary Channel Build 27852 and higher, and for Linux users through SymCrypt-OpenSSL version 1.9.0. The newly introduced PQC algorithms, standardized by NIST, will evolve in response to emerging threats, emphasizing the need for "Crypto Agility." The updates enhance OpenSSL’s API surface for Linux developers, allowing experimentation with TLS hybrid key exchange. Experts warn that quantum computing could breach even the most robust encryption systems, highlighting the urgency for software companies to adapt their security measures.
AppWizard
May 27, 2025
A leaked Signal group chat, referred to as Signalgate, has raised concerns about national security and the use of messaging applications for sensitive information exchange. The incident involved former U.S. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Jeffrey Goldberg, the editor-in-chief of Atlantic, who was mistakenly added to the chat meant for national security leaders discussing military operations. This breach has prompted discussions about the security protocols of digital communication tools used by government officials.
Winsage
May 26, 2025
Microsoft has integrated post-quantum cryptography (PQC) into Windows 11, starting with the Canary build 27852, to protect against quantum computer threats. The upgrade to SymCrypt, Microsoft's cryptographic library, now supports two PQC algorithms: ML-KEM and ML-DSA. This enhancement aims to improve security, performance, and compatibility across platforms. PQC is also being adopted in industry standards such as TLS, SSH, and IPSec. SymCrypt underpins various Microsoft services and operating systems, including Microsoft 365, Azure, and Windows 11. Microsoft is preparing its ecosystem for future quantum attacks, with PQC currently trialed in Windows 11 and expected to reach Linux soon. There are no specific timelines for updates to BitLocker. Recent research demonstrated a D-Wave quantum computer's ability to crack military-grade encryption, highlighting the increasing threat of quantum computing to classical cryptography.
AppWizard
May 24, 2025
Vietnam's Ministry of Science and Technology has accused the messaging app Telegram of not cooperating in addressing criminal activities conducted by its users. The ministry has instructed internet service providers to restrict Telegram's operations in the country, citing that nearly 70 percent of the 9,600 channels on the app disseminate harmful information and engage in illegal activities such as selling user data and drug trafficking. A Telegram representative stated the company has been timely in addressing legal requests from Vietnam and is processing a recent request. Despite the government's actions, Telegram was still accessible in Vietnam as of Friday. In Vietnam, approximately 11.8 million users use Telegram, while the app has nearly one billion users globally.
Tech Optimizer
May 18, 2025
Windows 11 accounts for nearly 44% of global desktop users as of April 2025, making it a prime target for cybercriminals, with 83% of malware in 2020 aimed at Windows systems. Microsoft Defender, which comes pre-installed with Windows 11, offers commendable malware protection, basic ransomware protection, a SmartScreen feature for anti-phishing, and a firewall that monitors network traffic. While it provides a solid foundation for security, additional third-party antivirus software can enhance protection, offering more comprehensive features such as superior parental controls, integrated VPN services, and identity theft protection.
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