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AppWizard
August 28, 2025
Google announced plans to regulate "sideloaded" Android applications, which are installed from sources outside the official Android repository. This initiative includes a verification system for developers, allowing only applications from verified developers to be sideloaded, aimed at preventing malicious software. Google likened this process to airport security checks, focusing on confirming developer identities rather than inspecting application content. The OSS Rebuild program, introduced earlier, aims to verify authors of open-source libraries and ensure installed versions match published source code. Critics express concern that Google's control over developer verification could lead to exclusion of certain packages, impacting competition and developer recourse. Google has indicated plans to allow students and hobbyists to install self-developed applications, with the rollout of verified sideloading expected by 2027 in most regions.
Winsage
August 28, 2025
Windows 10 support will end in October, leaving users vulnerable to cyber threats, and many older laptops may not meet the requirements for upgrading to Windows 11, prompting the need for new laptops. Zorin OS, created by the Zorin brothers, is a user-friendly Linux-based operating system that has garnered over 10 million downloads and is preparing for its 18th release. The Zorin brothers emphasize their commitment to user feedback and community collaboration, contrasting their approach with that of major tech companies. The "End of 10" campaign promotes Linux as a viable alternative to costly Windows upgrades, encouraging users to retain existing hardware while adopting new software for cost savings and enhanced privacy. Zorin OS is noted for its intuitive interface and compatibility with popular applications accessible via web browsers, making it a practical choice for users seeking to maintain security and performance on older laptops.
Winsage
August 28, 2025
Microsoft has introduced an automatic saving feature in Word for Windows that saves newly drafted content directly to OneDrive. Users can disable this autosave feature or choose a different cloud service in the settings. The option to save directly to a local computer or network drive remains available. When closing Word without saving, users will be prompted to either retain their work in the cloud or discard it. This feature is effective immediately for Word for Windows version 2509 (build 19221.20000) and will be extended to Excel and PowerPoint later this year. The automatic saving feature integrates with Microsoft's AI tool, Copilot, for document editing and evaluation. However, there are some bugs affecting the autosave functionality, such as issues when the start screen is disabled or when opening a second instance of Word.
AppWizard
August 28, 2025
Activision has reintroduced Call of Duty: World War II to the Microsoft Store and Xbox PC App after its removal on July 4 due to an undisclosed issue. The game is now available for PC Game Pass players. Speculation suggests the withdrawal was related to Remote Code Execution attacks affecting player security. The issues were limited to the PC version, while the Xbox edition remained available. Call of Duty: WWII is developed by Sledgehammer Games and features a campaign with realistic gameplay elements, including no automatic health regeneration. The next installment, Black Ops 7, is forthcoming, and Activision recently canceled the Carry Forward program that would have allowed content transfer from Black Ops 6.
AppWizard
August 28, 2025
Spotify is introducing a direct messaging feature, available to users aged 16 and older in select markets on mobile devices. This functionality allows users to share music directly within the app, simplifying the sharing process. Users can accept or decline message requests and block accounts for privacy control. To use the feature, users tap the share icon while listening to a track, select a friend, and send the message. Messages can be accessed by clicking on the profile photo in the top left corner of the app.
AppWizard
August 28, 2025
The Google Phone app is rolling out a feature that allows users to create personalized calling cards, enhancing the user experience when receiving calls. Users will see a promotional message in the Home tab about customizing how contacts appear during calls. The feature can be accessed through a dedicated "Calling card" page in the app's Settings menu, where users can modify contact images and names. Customization options include taking a new photo, selecting an image from the gallery, and adjusting the image's framing and text styles. The images will be displayed on incoming call and in-call screens, but users cannot control how these appear to others. This feature is available in version 188 of the Google Phone app, coinciding with the launch of the Pixel 10 and the Material 3 Expressive update with Android 16 QPR1.
Winsage
August 28, 2025
Cybersecurity experts have reported a significant increase in phishing emails targeting Microsoft Windows devices, linked to UpCrypter, a loader that installs remote access tools (RATs) for long-term access to compromised systems. These phishing emails often appear as missed voicemails or purchase orders, leading victims to counterfeit websites that prompt them to download a ZIP file containing a JavaScript dropper. This script executes PowerShell commands to connect to attacker-controlled servers, initiating further malware deployment. UpCrypter scans the system for security monitoring and can reboot to disrupt investigations if detected. If not, it downloads additional payloads, including PureHVNC for remote desktop access, DCRat for spying and data theft, and Babylon RAT for complete control over infected devices. Attackers use techniques like steganography, string obfuscation, and in-memory execution to evade detection. This phishing campaign, active since early August 2025, has affected various sectors, including manufacturing, technology, healthcare, construction, and retail/hospitality, with significant activity reported in countries like Austria, Belarus, Canada, Egypt, India, and Pakistan. Detections of this malware have doubled in two weeks, indicating a rapid escalation of the operation. Organizations are urged to implement robust email filtering and train employees to recognize these threats.
AppWizard
August 27, 2025
Amazon Games and Amazon Games Montreal are releasing a free-to-play multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) strategy game called March of Giants, set to launch on PC via Steam. A closed alpha test will occur from September 2 to September 10. In the game, players take on the role of a Giant, commanding an army and deploying tactical structures called “Battleworks” in 4v4 combat. Each Giant has unique abilities, and players can command thousands of soldiers and strategically position reinforcements to influence the battle.
Winsage
August 27, 2025
The Windows Task Scheduler is a feature available since Windows 95 that allows users to automate tasks based on specific conditions. Users can create scheduled tasks for various maintenance activities, such as running Disk Cleanup weekly, installing Windows updates at night, conducting security scans with Windows Defender, and backing up files using Robocopy. Automating these tasks helps maintain optimal computer performance and reduces the cognitive load associated with manual maintenance.
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