bypass Archives

AppWizard

May 9, 2025

Cosy board game Flamecraft is getting a digital adaptation for PC

Flamecraft, a board game featuring artisan dragons, will be adapted into a digital version for PC by Monster Couch, known for their work on Wingspan and Calico. The game allows 1-5 players to take on the role of a "Flamekeeper," interacting with dragons to enhance shops and develop a village. The digital adaptation will maintain the original gameplay while featuring vibrant visuals and lively dragon icons. Players will strategically position dragons, gather resources, cast enchantments, and aim to accumulate reputation points to become the Master of Flamecraft. A release date has not been announced, but players can wishlist the game on Steam.

Winsage

May 6, 2025

I used Sophia Script to take back control of Windows 11, and I wish I did it sooner

Sophia Script is a PowerShell module available on GitHub that simplifies the process of adjusting Windows settings through the command line interface (CLI), offering over 150 regularly updated functions. It provides GUI-based options for managing tasks like telemetry settings, scheduling tasks, and uninstalling OneDrive, allowing users to select multiple tasks at once. The setup process involves opening the main PS1 file in Notepad++, changing the directory, and executing a command from GitHub, with comprehensive instructions available. Users can customize settings by adding or replacing code with a hashtag next to the script they wish to run, and it allows changes to be applied across all user accounts. Sophia Script is particularly useful for configuring new PCs or fresh installations, as it helps remove unnecessary bloatware and streamline system performance. It can uninstall Microsoft apps, including the Windows Copilot app, and has created five scheduled tasks after running, saving time compared to traditional methods. The creator, Farag2, is also developing a GUI version, SophiApp 2.0.

Winsage

May 6, 2025

BitLocker is Locking Out Windows 11 Users; Here’s How to Recover and Prevent It

Microsoft's Windows 11 24H2 update enables BitLocker (Device Encryption) by default, encrypting the entire drive to protect user data. BitLocker is automatically activated during a clean installation when users sign in with a Microsoft account, and manufacturers will have it enabled by default on new PCs with this version. Microsoft has relaxed certain hardware requirements to increase accessibility. Users have reported being locked out of their PCs due to a lack of communication about BitLocker's activation process. The BitLocker recovery key can be found by signing into the Microsoft account linked to the PC at account.microsoft.com/devices/recoverykey. To disable BitLocker, Windows 11 Home users can go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Device Encryption, while Pro users can search for Manage BitLocker in the Start menu. To prevent automatic BitLocker encryption during installation, users can modify settings in the Registry Editor.

AppWizard

May 3, 2025

How to spawn Herobrine in Minecraft (with mods)

Herobrine is a character in Minecraft that players can summon using external modifications, as the game does not support his appearance natively. The Lunar Eclipse Studios’ From The Fog Mod is a popular option for the Java version of Minecraft. To install the mod, players must ensure they are using version 1.20.5 (or 1.20.6) of the game, download the datapack, and follow a series of steps to activate it in-game. Once installed, Herobrine will appear within three in-game days. Players can also build traditional Herobrine shrines to expedite his appearance, requiring specific materials: 1. First shrine: - 2 Blocks of Gold - 2 Netherrack 2. Second shrine: - 9 Blocks of Gold - 1 Netherrack - 4 Redstone Torches Players can gather these materials by mining or crafting: - Blocks of Gold are crafted from 9 Gold Ingots, which are obtained from Nether Gold Ore. - Redstone Torches are made from 1 stick and 1 Redstone Dust. Players can also use commands to switch to Creative Mode for easier material acquisition.

Tech Optimizer

May 3, 2025

Use Protection: 6 Tips to Watch Porn Online Safely

Seventeen U.S. states have enacted age verification laws that effectively prohibit adult websites from operating within their jurisdictions. The use of Incognito Mode can help hide browsing history, but it is not completely secure as data may still be retained by Google. Data theft is a risk when engaging with adult content, especially if personal information is shared on pornographic sites. Using a VPN can enhance anonymity, but it does not protect against voluntarily shared information. Privacy services like IronVest can help create disposable email addresses and phone numbers. Ads on adult websites can contain malware, making antivirus software important for protection. Trusted pornographic sites typically prioritize user privacy and security, so caution is advised when choosing platforms.

AppWizard

May 3, 2025

Photo appears to shows Mike Waltz using Signal-like app that can archive messages

White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly confirmed that the encrypted messaging application Signal is officially sanctioned for government use and installed on government-issued devices. The National Security Council has not commented on the related app, TeleMessage, which is derived from Signal and designed to help government entities comply with records retention laws. TeleMessage was founded in 1999, acquired by Smarsh in 2024, and has been involved in government contracts, including a .1 million contract with the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA that began in February 2023 and will conclude in August 2025. Tom Padgett, Smarsh’s president for enterprise business, stated that like Signal, messages sent through TeleMessage are encrypted, but the app does not address security issues raised by a recent incident involving Signal. The specifics of how government officials utilize TeleMessage remain unclear, and five cybersecurity experts admitted they were unfamiliar with the app prior to recent developments. TeleMessage licenses parts of its technology, including its encryption protocol, to other companies, but Signal clarified there is no formal agreement with TeleMessage and expressed concerns about the privacy and security of unofficial versions of their app.

Winsage

May 2, 2025

Microsoft Warns Windows Users—Delete Your Password

Microsoft aims to eliminate passwords for a billion users, promoting the use of passkeys that enhance account security by linking it to physical devices. The company warns that password-related attacks are increasing and emphasizes that having both a passkey and a password leaves accounts vulnerable to phishing. On World Password Day, Microsoft encourages users to abandon passwords entirely. The FIDO Alliance supports this initiative with a "Passkey Pledge," highlighting that over 35% of individuals have faced account compromises due to password vulnerabilities. Research shows that 54% of those familiar with passkeys find them more convenient, and 53% believe they offer better security. Microsoft will make new accounts passwordless by default and encourages existing users to remove their passwords. Passkeys are described as easy to use, intuitive, and resistant to phishing. For those who continue to use passwords, Microsoft advises making them long and complex and using authentication apps for two-factor authentication.

Winsage

April 30, 2025

Unpatched Windows Shortcut Vulnerability Let Attackers Execute Remote Code

Security researcher Nafiez has discovered a vulnerability in Windows LNK files that allows remote code execution without user interaction. Microsoft has chosen not to address this issue, stating it does not meet their security servicing criteria. The vulnerability exploits specific components of LNK files, enabling attackers to create malicious shortcuts that initiate silent network connections when a user accesses a folder containing them. The exploit involves manipulating the HasArguments flag, EnvironmentVariableDataBlock, and embedding UNC paths. Microsoft defends its inaction by citing the Mark of the Web (MOTW) feature as adequate protection, despite concerns from security experts about its effectiveness. Previous vulnerabilities in LNK files have been addressed by Microsoft, and the availability of proof-of-concept code raises fears of potential exploitation by malicious actors.

AppWizard

April 27, 2025

Larian boss Swen Vincke says the studio is ‘deep in the trenches’ on its ‘crazy-ambitious’ follow up to Baldur’s Gate 3, hopes to show it off no later than 2030 because ‘my wife will divorce me if it takes longer’

Larian Studios' founder and CEO, Swen Vincke, discussed the studio's future plans and development process in a conversation with GameSpot. After eight years with Baldur's Gate 3, Larian is preparing to release Patch Eight, which will introduce new features before transitioning support to the modding community. While Larian will continue to provide bug fixes and compatibility support, Vincke hinted at potential surprises in the future. He compared Larian's development approach to that of Obsidian Entertainment, aiming for a disciplined project scope and a steady release of quality games without compromising team well-being. Vincke expressed hope that in five years, Larian will have successfully established a rhythm for producing innovative RPGs simultaneously. He also mentioned the playful speculation of sequels to titles like "Divinity: Original Sin 3," with a tentative timeline around 2030.

Winsage

April 27, 2025

I tried the Windows Snipping Tool’s new text extraction feature and here’s how it went

A recent update to the Snipping Tool on Windows 11 has introduced an OCR feature, currently available only to beta channel users. This feature allows users to extract text from images and standard web pages easily, with a straightforward activation process. Users can draw a box around the desired text, and once recognized, a button appears to copy the text to the clipboard. The tool successfully retains formatting when extracting text from web pages. It performs well with clear printed text in images but struggles with handwritten text, producing numerous errors. The Snipping Tool is effective for recognizing simple fonts, enhancing productivity in text extraction.