communication methods Archives

AppWizard

August 12, 2026

Google passes 1 bln monthly users for Gemini app

Google's Gemini app has surpassed 1 billion monthly active users. Approximately 63 percent of users engage with the app vocally, and 20 percent use visual communication methods like the app's camera and screen-sharing features. Most users access Gemini on Android devices, but 10 percent use Apple devices.

AppWizard

August 11, 2026

EXCLUSIVE: Messaging apps alleged coup conspirators used for communication

The choice of communication methods, such as WhatsApp and Zangi, influenced the outcome of a clandestine operation related to an alleged coup against President Bola Tinubu's government. Retired navy captain Erasmus Victor, facing treason charges, mentioned being recruited to find financial backers for the coup by Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji, who introduced him to Zangi for its security features. Zangi claims it does not store communication histories and uses end-to-end encryption, but investigators may still access data on users' devices. The investigation includes evidence from devices rather than relying solely on messaging companies. Mr. Victor and his co-defendants have denied wrongdoing and are challenging the admissibility of their statements in court.

AppWizard

August 9, 2026

Organized crime is using encrypted messaging apps to enlist youth. This spells trouble for police

Toronto has seen an increase in gunfire incidents aimed at the U.S. consulate, leading to the arrests of a 19-year-old and a 15-year-old. These incidents are linked to alleged gun-for-hire plots that also target Jewish schools, synagogues, and waste management facilities in the Greater Toronto Area. Investigators are facing difficulties in identifying the masterminds behind these operations, partly due to the use of encrypted messaging apps to recruit young individuals. The federal government's Bill C-22 aims to provide law enforcement with tools to address these challenges, but it has faced criticism for potential overreach and privacy concerns. Police Chief Myron Demkiw emphasized the need for effective tools to prevent violence facilitated through encrypted communication. Technology analyst Carmi Levy raised concerns about balancing law enforcement needs with privacy rights. Additionally, there is a societal responsibility to protect children from online recruitment by criminal networks, with calls for proactive conversations between parents and children and educational initiatives in schools.

Tech Optimizer

July 25, 2026

Scrappy RAT Malware Targets Chrome And Edge Users

A new remote access trojan (RAT) named msaRAT has been identified by Cisco Talos, linked to the Chaos ransomware group and built using Rust. It exploits Chrome and Edge browsers to disguise its traffic and evade detection. MsaRAT operates through a headless browser process, enabling remote code execution and facilitating ransomware deployment, data theft, and other malicious activities. It is typically installed via phishing emails or malicious files, making it resistant to standard browser patches. Cisco Talos recommends specific SNORT rules and a ClamAV signature for detection. Indicators of Compromise (IoC) include traffic to the IP address 172.86.126.18 and the domain is-01-ast.ols-img-12.workers.dev. The malware primarily targets large organizations, but individual users may also be at risk.