controls Archives

AppWizard

August 26, 2025

Google To Start Verifying All Android App Developers

Google is implementing changes that will allow the installation of Android apps from sources beyond the Google Play Store due to a legal ruling from an antitrust case with Epic Games. This shift will introduce stringent measures requiring developers to meet Google's standards for app installation, potentially challenging hobbyist developers. The new regulations aim to reduce malware from non-Google Play sources, enhancing user safety, but may impact accessibility.

Tech Optimizer

August 25, 2025

Norton VPN features explained: AI-powered protection, Dark web monitoring, IP Rotation and more

Norton VPN offers a variety of features including: - Integration of artificial intelligence for real-time detection of scams and threats such as phishing, malware, and ransomware. - Cloud storage options ranging from 10GB with the Plus plan to 50GB with the Ultimate plan, providing secure online storage for sensitive data. - Dark web monitoring that scans for users' personal information and alerts them if it surfaces. - A Kill Switch feature that halts internet traffic if the VPN connection drops, protecting users' real IP addresses and unencrypted data. - IP masking that conceals users' real IP addresses and encrypts data before it reaches its destination. - IP rotation that changes the assigned IP address every 30 seconds to complicate tracking attempts. - A Double VPN option that routes data through two servers for enhanced privacy. - A no-log policy ensuring that users' IP addresses, browsing histories, and DNS queries are not logged, with independent audits for validation. - A Norton Password Manager included in select plans for creating and storing complex passwords and securely managing online transactions. - Parental controls and location supervision available with the Ultimate plan, allowing parents to monitor web access and track children's locations.

Tech Optimizer

August 25, 2025

Save A$60 On Your First Year of Norton 360 Deluxe

Norton 360 Deluxe is currently available for A.99, reduced from A9.99, offering a 40% discount for a year's subscription. It includes antivirus protection for up to three devices and features such as Norton Secure VPN, SafeCam for PC, Password Manager, Parental Controls, Dark Web Monitoring, 50GB of Cloud Storage, and Genie Scam Protection. Norton 360 Deluxe has been recognized as an Editors’ Choice winner by PCMag.

Winsage

August 23, 2025

Hackers Can Exfiltrate Windows Secrets and Credentials Silently by Evading EDR Detection

A new method allows attackers to extract Windows secrets and credentials without being detected by most Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions. This technique enables individuals with access to a Windows machine to gather credentials for lateral movement within a network. The Local Security Authority (LSA) manages sensitive information through two in-memory databases: the SAM database, which stores user credentials, and the Security database, which holds LSA secrets. Access to these databases requires interaction with the SAM and SECURITY registry hives, protected by Discretionary Access Control Lists (DACLs) that limit access to SYSTEM privileges. Attackers typically face detection when accessing the lsass.exe process memory, as EDR solutions monitor high-risk activities. Researcher Sud0Ru has introduced a method that bypasses these defenses by using the undocumented API NtOpenKeyEx with the REGOPTIONBACKUPRESTORE flag, allowing attackers to read the SAM and SECURITY hives without SYSTEM-level privileges. To avoid detection, attackers use the RegQueryMultipleValuesW API, which is less monitored by EDRs, to extract encrypted secrets from the hives. This approach allows the operation to occur entirely in memory, leaving no on-disk artifacts and evading typical security alerts.

Winsage

August 23, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.5761 (Beta Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.5761 (KB5064093) has been released to the Beta Channel for Windows 11, version 24H2. This update includes new features such as seamless app resumption from Android phones to PCs, allowing users to continue using apps like Spotify on their PC. The battery icons on the lock screen have been redesigned for better clarity. Enhancements for Click to Do on Copilot+ PCs include a touch-friendly entry point. Improvements in the Settings agent provide direct navigation links. Automatic Super Resolution has simplified settings controls on Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs. A new keyboard shortcut for inserting En dash and Em dash has been introduced. Recent updates allow pinning favorite apps in the Windows share window. Fixes include performance improvements in the Settings app and enhancements to Windows Hello recognition. Known issues include problems with Recall functionality in the EEA and bug checks with Xbox Controllers via Bluetooth. An update for Snipping Tool introduces window mode screen recording, allowing users to capture specific app windows.

AppWizard

August 23, 2025

Windows 11 Build 26200 Enables Android App Resumption on PCs

Microsoft has released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5761 in the Dev Channel, allowing users to resume Android app sessions on Windows PCs through the Start menu for linked devices. This update enhances AI capabilities, particularly for devices with Copilot+ hardware, and introduces an upgraded energy saver mode. It addresses issues like intermittent crashes in File Explorer and improves compatibility with third-party antivirus software. The update encourages cross-platform app development and aims to streamline workflows in enterprise environments. Microsoft has noted potential audio glitches on certain hardware and is gathering user feedback for further improvements.

Winsage

August 23, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5761 (Dev Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5761 (KB5064093) is being released to the Dev Channel. New features include the ability to resume apps from an Android phone on a Windows 11 PC, specifically for Spotify, which allows users to continue playback seamlessly. Users need to enable access to their phone and set up the Link to Windows app to use this feature. Improvements to battery iconography on the lock screen have been made. New features for Click to Do on Copilot+ PCs include a touch-friendly invocation method. The agent in Settings now provides direct navigation links from search results. Automatic Super Resolution settings have been simplified for Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs. A new keyboard shortcut has been introduced for inserting En dashes and Em dashes. The Windows share window now allows pinning favorite apps. Fixes include performance enhancements for loading the apps list in Settings, resolving Windows Hello recognition issues, and improving gaming performance with overlays. Known issues involve Recall functionality in the EEA, visibility of the Shared section in File Explorer, unresponsiveness in Storage settings, and issues with Xbox Controllers via Bluetooth. Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel receive updates based on Windows 11, version 25H2, and features are rolled out gradually using Controlled Feature Rollout technology.

Tech Optimizer

August 23, 2025

pgEdge Cloud Enhances Distributed PostgreSQL with Multi-AZ Support and SOC 2 Certification

pgEdge, Inc. has updated its distributed PostgreSQL cloud service, pgEdge Cloud, with enhancements in high availability, conflict resolution, and security compliance for geo-distributed applications. This update introduces multi-availability zone support, allowing customers to deploy multiple nodes within the same region, improving fault tolerance and application reliability. It also features enhanced automatic conflict resolution capabilities, reducing the need for application-level exception handling in distributed environments. Performance improvements include faster replication operations and a reengineered lag tracking system for better accuracy. Additionally, pgEdge has completed a SOC 2 Type II audit, achieving a clean audit opinion, demonstrating its commitment to security standards. The service is available for free sign-up at https://www.pgedge.com/get-started/cloud.

AppWizard

August 22, 2025

Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater review

Metal Gear Solid Delta is a ground-up remake of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, developed and published by Konami, priced at £70. The game is reviewed on Windows 11 with an Intel i5-12400, RTX 4060, and 16GB RAM. Multiplayer will be available as a post-launch update. The narrative focuses on the relationship between Snake and the Boss, with an emphasis on exploration and environmental interaction. The game features refined controls, an improved user interface, and a simple camouflage activation system. Some mechanics, like the wound treatment system, remain unchanged. Players experience a balanced challenge on normal difficulty, with engaging boss fights enhanced by modern graphics. Despite occasional performance issues, the overall experience is captivating, honoring the original while offering a fresh take.

AppWizard

August 22, 2025

Minecraft: What’s the difference between Bedrock and Java

Minecraft has two primary versions: Bedrock and Java. Minecraft Bedrock offers robust cross-play capabilities across consoles and devices, allowing players on Xbox, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and mobile to connect with Windows users. It simplifies server setup with the Realm feature for casual multiplayer experiences and includes achievements and parental controls, making it family-friendly. Minecraft Java, the original version, runs on the Java platform and supports cross-play among Windows, Mac, and Linux users, but not consoles or mobile. It features extensive mod support, allowing for customization, and includes advancements instead of external achievements. Combat mechanics differ, with Java emphasizing strategy through a cooldown system. Bedrock is often recommended for children due to its controlled environment, while Java appeals to players seeking customization and deeper engagement with the game. Additionally, Minecraft has expanded to include titles like Minecraft Dungeons, Legends, and Education, each offering unique gameplay experiences.