breach Archives

Tech Optimizer

June 13, 2025

It’s time to stop believing these lies about antivirus software

The proliferation of social media misinformation, deep fakes, and sophisticated phishing attacks has made online safety challenging. Many individuals hold outdated beliefs about cybersecurity, such as the myth that Macs are immune to viruses and that caution alone can replace antivirus software. Regardless of the operating system, using a robust antivirus program is recommended, as built-in security features are not foolproof. Third-party antivirus software can provide additional functionalities like parental controls and VPN services, but they are not a complete safety net. Users must remain vigilant and practice good cybersecurity hygiene, including regular scans, strong passwords, and recognizing phishing attempts. Modern antivirus programs have become more user-friendly and less resource-intensive. Some malware can operate stealthily, making detection difficult, which emphasizes the need for regular scans and monitoring personal accounts for unusual activity. Antivirus protection should extend to mobile devices as well, as they are also vulnerable to cyber threats. Users should check if their antivirus program covers mobile devices and familiarize themselves with security settings on their smartphones.

AppWizard

June 7, 2025

I can’t stop watching these Dune: Awakening videos showing players having butt-puckeringly close calls with angry sandworms

In Funcom's survival MMO, Dune: Awakening, players face the threat of sandworms, known as Shai-Hulud, which can lead to a complete loss of inventory if swallowed. Encounters with these creatures transform desert traversal into a high-stakes experience, requiring players to be vigilant. Escaping a sandworm is more about being quicker than other players than about speed. The sandworm can also consume bystanders if it targets another player. Players have shared experiences of close calls, where unexpected encounters with sandworms can create chaotic scenarios. The game emphasizes tension and excitement as players navigate the desert while avoiding the ever-present threat of the sandworm.

AppWizard

June 7, 2025

Game of Thrones strategy game War for Westeros announced for PC

The game titled "War for Westeros" was unveiled during the Summer Game Fest in Los Angeles on June 6th, with a release date set for 2026. It draws inspiration from George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" series and allows players to command armies from House Stark, House Lannister, House Targaryen, or the Night King. The gameplay features real-time strategy battles, unique faction strategies, and a variety of units, including infantry, cavalry, siege engines, giants, and dragons. Players can traverse the realm from the Wall to King’s Landing, engage in skirmishes or longer campaigns, and their decisions will impact the narrative. A trailer depicts Jon Snow's death and resurrection as a wight, showcasing the game's dynamic storytelling. Additionally, multiple TV spin-offs from the Game of Thrones universe are in development, including the third season of "House of the Dragon" and a new series titled "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms."

AppWizard

June 7, 2025

I can see why Devolver dedicated its whole show to Ball X Pit: It’s like Atari’s Breakout meets Vampire Survivors and the demo is curing my roguelike fatigue

Ball X Pit, developed by Devolver Digital, is a reimagined brick-breaker game where players face descending skeleton soldiers while automatically firing balls that ricochet off surfaces. Players can aim broadly or precisely to defeat enemies and unlock special balls with unique abilities as they level up. The game features strategic depth with upgrades and fusions, challenging boss enemies, and a whimsical hub called New Ballbylon for meta progression. It offers fast-paced action and engaging mechanics, available for wishlisting or demo play on Steam.

AppWizard

June 7, 2025

New ‘Game of Thrones’ PC Strategy Game ‘War for Westeros’ to Launch in 2026

PlaySide Studios, in collaboration with Warner Bros. Interactive, announced a new video game titled “Game of Thrones: War for Westeros” during the Summer Game Fest in Los Angeles. This PC real-time strategy game is inspired by George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” series and allows players to command factions such as House Stark, House Lannister, House Targaryen, or the Night King. Players will engage in battles, forge alliances, and utilize unique strategies and heroes from each faction. The game features skirmish matches and a campaign across the Seven Kingdoms, where decisions impact the struggle for dominance. This marks a shift for Warner Bros. Interactive, which has primarily focused on mobile titles for the “Game of Thrones” franchise. A trailer for the game has been released.

AppWizard

June 7, 2025

Game of Thrones: War for Westeros Is a Premium PC RTS Due in 2026

Playside Studios announced the upcoming release of "Game of Thrones: War for Westeros," a premium PC real-time strategy game set in George R.R. Martin's fantasy universe. Players can command armies from House Stark, House Lannister, House Targaryen, or the Night King, engaging in strategic battles that require forming alliances and outsmarting opponents. The game features unique strategies and mechanics for each faction, allowing players to deploy various units and utilize hero abilities. Players can participate in skirmish matches or a larger campaign across the Seven Kingdoms, with decisions impacting the struggle for dominance. The game is set to launch in 2026, and players can wishlist it on Steam.

Tech Optimizer

June 6, 2025

Bitdefender Antivirus Review 2025: I Found This Top-Rated Security Software Effective and Efficient

Bitdefender Antivirus has a score of 9.5 out of 10, with the following breakdown: Performance: 9/10, Security: 10/10, Customer Support: 9/10, Usability: 10/10, Value: 9/10, Features: 10/10. It has over 500 million users worldwide and offers real-time protection against malware, a scam detector, a VPN, password manager, ad blocker, digital identity protection, dark web monitoring, and data breach detection. Bitdefender's plans include a free version for single-device use and various Ultimate Security packages for individuals and families, all priced at 0 for the first year. The software is user-friendly, with a straightforward setup process and minimal impact on system resources during operation. It consistently achieves high marks in third-party lab tests for security and offers various customer support options, though the initial steps to reach a representative can be cumbersome.

Tech Optimizer

June 5, 2025

CISA releases TTPs & IoCs for Play Ransomware That Hacked 900+ Orgs

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), in collaboration with the FBI and the Australian Cyber Security Centre, released an advisory on the Play ransomware group, which has targeted around 900 entities since its inception in June 2022. The group employs a double extortion model, exploiting vulnerabilities in public-facing applications and using tools for lateral movement and credential dumping. Their operations involve recompiling ransomware binaries for each attack to evade detection. The advisory highlights mitigation measures such as multifactor authentication and regular software patching. The Play ransomware specifically targets virtual environments and encrypts files using AES-256 encryption. Indicators of Compromise (IoCs) include: - SVCHost.dll (Backdoor) - SHA-256: 47B7B2DD88959CD7224A5542AE8D5BCE928BFC986BF0D0321532A7515C244A1E - Backdoor - SHA-256: 75B525B220169F07AECFB3B1991702FBD9A1E170CAF0040D1FCB07C3E819F54A - PSexesvc.exe (Custom Play “psexesvc”) - SHA-256: 1409E010675BF4A40DB0A845B60DB3AAE5B302834E80ADEEC884AEBC55ECCBF7 - HRsword.exe (Disables endpoint protection) - SHA-256: 0E408AED1ACF902A9F97ABF71CF0DD354024109C5D52A79054C421BE35D93549 - Hi.exe (Associated with ransomware) - SHA-256: 6DE8DD5757F9A3AC5E2AC28E8A77682D7A29BE25C106F785A061DCF582A20DC6

Tech Optimizer

June 4, 2025

Do I need an antivirus and a VPN?

Reliance on antivirus software for device protection is common, but certain threats, especially ransomware, can bypass even the best solutions. Cybercriminals have shifted tactics from encrypting data for ransom to exfiltrating sensitive information and threatening to leak it. The availability of ransomware kits and the use of AI by attackers have made cybercrime more accessible and targeted. Remote work environments increase vulnerabilities, as hackers exploit unsecured networks and personal devices. Antivirus software can help protect against malware and viruses, but built-in solutions often lack comprehensive security. A high-quality antivirus program can enhance protection through advanced features and AI. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts data and secures internet traffic, making it a valuable tool for cybersecurity. Implementing a VPN is cost-effective compared to potential data breach costs. Using both a VPN and antivirus software is essential for comprehensive coverage, as they address different security aspects. Businesses may need advanced endpoint protection solutions for heightened security, which continuously scans for suspicious behavior and integrates multiple security features. Despite these tools, proper personal practices and cybersecurity awareness are crucial to minimize vulnerabilities and human error, which is a leading cause of cyberattacks.

Tech Optimizer

May 31, 2025

Study offers a national report on antivirus software trends

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.