Chromium-based browsers Archives

Winsage

March 28, 2025

Windows Users at Risk: New Zero-Day Exploit Steals Passwords Without Interaction

A newly uncovered zero-day vulnerability in Windows allows hackers to steal NTLM credentials simply by previewing a malicious file, affecting multiple Windows versions, including Windows 7 and Windows 11 v24H2. Microsoft has not yet issued a patch for this vulnerability, leaving millions of users exposed. The flaw was reported by security researcher Mitja Kolsek from ACROS Security, who noted that stolen credentials could lead to unauthorized access to networks. ACROS Security has created a temporary micro-patch available through its 0patch platform, which users are encouraged to implement. Additionally, a separate zero-day vulnerability identified in Google Chrome and other Chromium-based browsers allows attackers to bypass sandbox protection with a click on a malicious link, primarily targeting media organizations and government agencies in Russia. Users are advised to install the 0patch fix, avoid interacting with unfamiliar files, and update their browsers to protect against these threats.

Winsage

March 3, 2025

Microsoft Edge tests AI History Search, better security on Windows 11

Microsoft Edge is introducing new AI-driven features, including an experimental Web Push API for improved notification management in Windows 11 and enhanced security measures for downloads and clipboard activities. An AI History search feature is being developed, allowing users to receive AI recommendations from web passages during history searches, which can be activated by typing @history in the address bar. This feature may require a Microsoft account and will only apply to websites visited after activation. Additionally, Edge is optimizing memory usage with sleeping tabs and has identified new security features, including msProvenanceValidatorToggleOnByDefault for verifying downloaded file sources and msProtectedClipboard for protecting clipboard contents. The term msEdgeMetaOSOlympus has been mentioned, potentially indicating a redesign or new Windows release, though details remain unclear.

Winsage

March 1, 2025

Running Windows 7 in 2025

Windows 7 officially retired on January 14, 2020, but remains in use by some users due to its classic features and lack of built-in advertising. Many users continue to use Windows 7 because of outdated hardware, software compatibility issues, or financial constraints following the end of the free upgrade program in 2023. Users can maintain their Windows 7 installations by decluttering with the built-in Disk Cleanup tool, using Legacy Update for updates, and being cautious while browsing the web. The last compatible version of Google Chrome for Windows 7 is version 109, while Firefox version 115 still receives updates. Alternatives like PaleMoon and eM Client are available for users. Disabling OneDrive and exploring reliable applications like Ghostwriter and Notepad++ can enhance the Windows 7 experience.

Winsage

February 22, 2025

Microsoft’s new Edge Add-ons site might keep you away from the Chrome Web Store

Microsoft has enhanced the user experience of its Edge browser by integrating Chrome extensions and promoting its redesigned Edge Add-ons website, which improves navigation and usability. The updated site features enhanced autosuggestions for finding and installing extensions, including a "Get" button for direct installation. While Edge can run Google Chrome extensions, some users prefer the Edge Add-ons store for a Microsoft-centric experience. Certain extensions remain exclusive to the Chrome Web Store, as developers often prioritize Chrome due to its larger market share. Users can access these extensions through the Chrome Web Store on various Chromium-based browsers, including Edge. Currently, extensions like uBlock Origin work on Edge, but their future compatibility is uncertain.

Winsage

December 21, 2024

How to get started with Windows Recall on Windows 11

Windows 11 version 24H2 introduces a feature called Windows Recall, which captures and remembers on-screen activities using AI. Users can configure settings for Windows Recall, including opting in or out, adjusting storage allocations (25GB for 256GB SSD, 75GB for 512GB SSD, and 150GB for 1TB SSD), deleting snapshots, and filtering specific apps and websites. The feature can filter sensitive information and allows users to pause and resume snapshots. Users can search for past activities using natural language queries and interact with snapshots to perform actions like copying text or erasing objects. Windows Recall operates only when the device is in use and does not upload data to the cloud. The data remains on the user's device, with encryption for security. The feature supports multiple languages, including English, Chinese, French, German, Japanese, and Spanish.

AppWizard

November 25, 2024

These are the best alternatives to Google’s most popular apps

Many users rely on Google-made Android applications, which can create dependency, but alternatives exist. Heliboard is an open-source keyboard that can replace Gboard after initial setup. Mozilla Thunderbird is a strong alternative to Gmail, offering a clean interface and support for multiple email providers. Mozilla Firefox is a preferred browser alternative to Google Chrome, providing extensive customization and support for extensions. Notally offers a familiar layout for note-taking as an alternative to Google Keep. Material Notes and Mixplorer are alternatives to Files by Google, with Material Notes offering a sleek interface and Mixplorer providing advanced features. Todoist is a feature-rich alternative to Google Tasks, with its own calendar solutions and voice recognition for task entry. OsmAnd and Organic Maps are navigation alternatives to Google Maps, utilizing OpenStreetMap data. Aves Gallery is a feature-rich gallery app alternative to Google Photos, while Focus Go offers a simpler experience for less powerful devices. Some Google apps, like Google Recorder and Google Messages, lack genuine alternatives.

Winsage

September 30, 2024

Windows Recall: Microsoft’s second launch attempt after devastating criticism – gHacks Tech News

Microsoft introduced its AI-driven feature, Windows Recall, which aimed to provide users with AI-enhanced access to their past activities by capturing screenshots every five seconds. However, it faced backlash from privacy and security advocates due to its automatic opt-out nature and inadequate data security. In response, Microsoft retracted Recall and made significant changes, including making it an opt-in feature, allowing uninstallation, encrypting the database, running processes in an isolated environment, and requiring Windows Hello for certain actions. Users now have controls over disk space allocation, data retention duration, and can delete specific data. Private browsing data will not be saved in major browsers, and website activity can be blocked. A system tray icon will indicate activity, and sensitive content filtering is included.

Winsage

September 19, 2024

What’s new with AI on Windows 11 version 24H2 (2024 Update)

Windows 11 is set to release its third feature update, version 24H2 (2024 Update), which includes various AI functionalities. Key features include: - Windows Copilot Runtime: A framework that integrates over 40 AI models for local task execution. - Windows Recall: Captures screenshots of user activity and allows searching through a "Recall" app, respecting privacy by not tracking InPrivate or Incognito modes. - Windows Studio Effects: Enhancements for webcam and microphone inputs, including Background Blur and Voice Focus. - Live Captions: Enhanced with AI for real-time transcription and translation. - Voice Clarity: Reduces background noise during conversations automatically. - Auto Super Resolution: Upscales graphics for gaming using on-device AI. - Restyle Image for Photos: Transforms photos using AI-driven styles. - Cocreator for Paint: Assists in enhancing artwork with creative suggestions. - Copilot app: Redesigned interface for AI integration, offering contextual suggestions within applications. The update began partial availability on June 18, 2024, for Copilot+ PCs, with a broader rollout expected in September or October. Some features may require new hardware.

Winsage

August 17, 2024

Microsoft Windows Warning —‘Malicious’ New Threat Steals Bitcoin, Ethereum, Crypto From Users

A report from Check Point Research reveals a new malware variant called Styx Stealer, which targets Windows users and is capable of stealing browser cookies, security credentials, and instant messages. This malware exploits a vulnerability in Microsoft Windows Defender, allowing it to execute scripts on PCs without security warnings. Styx Stealer is linked to the Agent Tesla threat actor known as Fucosreal and is available for rent online. It primarily targets Chromium-based browsers, including Google Chrome, Edge, and Firefox, and has enhanced capabilities for cryptocurrency theft through a technique called crypto-clipping. The malware continuously monitors the clipboard and can substitute wallet addresses during transactions. Despite its sophistication, the developer made a mistake that allowed Check Point to gather intelligence linking Styx Stealer to the Agent Tesla campaign. Users are advised to keep their operating systems updated to protect against this threat.

Winsage

August 16, 2024

Google might be cutting support for ‘the world’s most popular ad-blocker,’ but this Windows Registry trick will help Chrome and Edge users keep intrusive ads at bay for a year longer

Google is transitioning to the Manifest V3 framework for Chrome, phasing out support for classic extensions, which will affect over 30 million users and disrupt the functionality of the ad blocker uBlock Origin. uBlock Origin Lite will be available but will lack essential features. A workaround exists to extend support for classic extensions by one year using the ExtensionManifestV2Availability policy through the Windows Registry, though caution is advised due to potential risks. Mozilla's Firefox will continue to support the Manifest V2 framework. Steps to implement the workaround include modifying the registry and verifying the policy in Chrome, with a PC restart required to apply changes, allowing classic extensions to function until June 2025.