data breaches Archives

Winsage

July 27, 2025

Windows 10 support ending: Action required for OHIO devices

Beginning October 14, 2025, Microsoft will cease support for most versions of Windows 10, prompting the Ohio University Office of Information Technology (OIT) to restrict access for OHIO-managed systems running unsupported versions. This affects all versions of Windows 10 prior to version 22H2, which is eligible for the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. The ESU program provides paid access to critical security updates for older operating systems after official support ends. OIT plans to restrict access for all Windows 10 systems, including those with ESU, by October 2026 and no later than October 2028, when the ESU program concludes.

Tech Optimizer

July 26, 2025

The best Android antivirus apps of 2025: Expert tested

Cyber threats targeting smartphones have evolved to include sophisticated malware and ransomware, with Android being particularly vulnerable to cyberattacks compared to iOS. Google recommends downloading apps only from the official Play Store, but some malicious applications can bypass these security measures. To protect Android devices from malware, investing in a reliable antivirus app is essential. Bitdefender Mobile Security is currently the top-rated Android antivirus app with a 4.7-star rating on Google Play, offering features like real-time web protection and app scanning. A free version is available, but a subscription is required for enhanced features. Sophos Intercept X for Mobile is a commendable free option with a 3.9-star rating, providing threat scanning and app protection. Other notable antivirus apps include Avast Security and Virus Cleaner, which has a 4.6-star rating and features a web shield and junk removal, and Malwarebytes Mobile Security, also rated 4.6 stars, known for its quick scans and digital footprint service. Norton360, with a 4.6-star rating, offers a comprehensive suite of features including antivirus scanning and a VPN. The best Android antivirus apps of 2025 include: - Bitdefender Mobile Security: Free, per year, 4.7 stars, 448K reviews - Sophos Intercept X: Free, 4.1 stars, 47.1K reviews - Avast: Ad-supported free, 4.6 stars, 7.34M reviews - Malwarebytes: Free, per year, 4.6 stars, 423K reviews - Norton360: Paid plans, 4.6 stars, 1.92M reviews The mobile malware landscape has reportedly increased by 151% since the beginning of 2025, with Google taking legal action against the BadBox 2.0 botnet targeting IoT devices, including Android. A new malware variant named ClickFix is also emerging, affecting macOS, Android, and iOS platforms. Relying solely on built-in protection and the Google Play Store is not advisable; a reputable antivirus app is recommended for additional security.

Winsage

July 23, 2025

Windows 11 migration is still causing lots of headaches for some firms

Recent research by Panasonic indicates that many businesses are hesitant to migrate to Windows 11 due to cybersecurity threats and financial implications. Nearly two-thirds (62%) of devices in use will need replacement or upgrades for compatibility with Windows 11, rising to 76% for larger enterprises with over 5,000 employees. Concerns about ransomware and malware are prevalent, with 93% of respondents expressing worry, and two-thirds believe migrating could increase overall costs, including 55% anticipating higher cybersecurity expenses. Additionally, 47% of organizations face software compatibility issues, and 45% are concerned about productivity losses during the transition. The Extended Security Update (ESU) program is estimated to cost around £320,000 over three years for 1,000 devices. Despite these challenges, about one-third of organizations see potential benefits in upgrading, such as improved performance (36%), a more future-proof ecosystem (36%), and access to advanced AI features (34%). Chris Turner from Panasonic emphasizes the need for a strategic approach to ensure a smooth transition to Windows 11.

Tech Optimizer

July 18, 2025

Avast vs Norton: Which antivirus is is better in 2025?

Avast and Norton are leading antivirus software options that utilize the same antivirus engine for core malware protection. Avast excels in real-time monitoring and offers a Wi-Fi security scanner, while Norton uses AI and machine learning for threat defense. Both provide robust firewalls, but Norton includes an Intrusion Prevention System for enhanced security. In terms of identity theft protection, Avast One offers credit monitoring and compensation, while Norton partners with LifeLock for more comprehensive services. Avast includes a basic VPN in its free version, whereas Norton offers a more extensive VPN with advanced features. Norton provides a password manager, while Avast does not. Norton has superior parental controls compared to Avast, which lacks this feature. Both have additional security features, with Norton offering Data Shredder and Dark Web Monitoring. Avast has a slight edge in system performance, while both have user-friendly designs, though Avast is simpler. Both have identical detection rates in malware protection tests. Pricing differs, with Avast being more economical and Norton offering a wider range of plans at higher prices.

Tech Optimizer

July 18, 2025

I put McAfee and Avast in an antivirus head to head, and these were the results of my testing

Investing in a robust antivirus solution is essential as cyber threats become more sophisticated. McAfee and Avast are two reputable antivirus providers, both offering effective defenses against malware with overlapping feature sets. McAfee employs advanced real-time threat detection using machine learning, while Avast continuously monitors application behavior and online activities for threats. McAfee's firewall blocks suspicious connections but has limited configuration options, whereas Avast's firewall allows for greater customization. McAfee’s ‘Premium’ subscription includes identity theft protection features, while Avast One’s ‘Gold’ subscription offers less extensive identity protection. McAfee includes a VPN with no data caps across all tiers, while Avast's VPN has a data cap in its free version but offers more locations in premium plans. McAfee includes a True Key Password Manager, while Avast does not have a password manager. McAfee provides robust parental controls, unlike Avast. Both antivirus solutions have additional features, such as file shredders. McAfee is noted for its resource efficiency, scoring 2.6 in impact tests, while Avast scored 3.8. Both have user-friendly interfaces, with McAfee being sleek and organized, and Avast having an intuitive design. In malware protection tests, McAfee achieved a 99.6% online detection rate and a 99.96% online protection rate, while Avast had a 99.3% online detection rate and a 97.7% offline detection rate. Pricing for McAfee ranges from .99 per year for one device to .99 for the ‘Ultimate’ plan, while Avast offers a free tier and premium plans starting at .88 for three devices.

Winsage

July 17, 2025

Semperis Research Uncovers Critical Flaw in Windows Server 2025 Exposing Managed Service Accounts to Golden DMSA Attack

Semperis has identified a vulnerability in Windows Server 2025, termed Golden dMSA, which allows for high-impact attacks that enable cross-domain lateral movement and persistent access to managed service accounts in Active Directory. The vulnerability exploits a cryptographic flaw in the ManagedPasswordId structure, which has predictable components and limited combinations, making brute-force attacks feasible. Semperis researcher Adi Malyanker developed a tool named GoldenDMSA to help cybersecurity professionals understand and simulate this attack. Additionally, Semperis has uncovered other vulnerabilities, such as nOauth in Microsoft's Entra ID and BadSuccessor, a privilege escalation technique in Windows Server 2025. The company focuses on protecting enterprise identity services and offers various resources for the cybersecurity community.

AppWizard

July 10, 2025

Google drops ‘Android Canary Release Channel’ for devs eyeing rigorous API testing

Google has introduced the Android Canary Release Channel, a new testing environment for developers to access early test builds and upcoming features of Android. This channel is available for Pixel devices, including the Pixel 6 series to Pixel 9, and offers tools for developing features in Wear OS 6. Developers can flash the latest Canary build or use the Android Emulator via Android Studio, with future updates expected to roll out monthly. Opting out of the channel requires a complete data wipe of the device. The Android Canary channel will have a more measured update schedule compared to Chrome Canary, which receives daily updates.

AppWizard

July 8, 2025

I Tried Signal, Telegram and WhatsApp, and This Is the One I’d Recommend

Telegram retains data necessary for its operations, including metadata like IP addresses. In 2024, the company updated its privacy policy to clarify that it can disclose IP addresses and phone numbers of rule violators to law enforcement upon valid legal requests. This resulted in Telegram fulfilling 900 information requests from U.S. authorities in 2024, affecting 2,253 individuals. Telegram has experienced data breaches, including a 2020 incident where 42 million Iranian users had their data compromised and a 2019 vulnerability exploited by Chinese agencies affecting protestor identities in Hong Kong. The platform allows users to create public channels for sharing content, but these channels are not end-to-end encrypted. Telegram offers secret chats that are end-to-end encrypted, but they are limited to the device of origin. The app allows for automatic message deletion, with a minimum interval of one day, and features a self-destruct option for accounts after a period of inactivity. Telegram's client applications are open-source, while its server-side code is closed-source. The company operates on a freemium model, offering a paid tier for enhanced features. Telegram is available for free download on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

Tech Optimizer

July 8, 2025

If I was going to buy one thing this Prime Day, I’d choose this insanely cheap antivirus package – and it’s only $25

Amazon Prime Day features significant deals in cybersecurity, including the Norton 360 Premium package, which offers coverage for ten devices. Norton includes anti-scam protection that identifies malicious links, robust malware detection, and parental controls for online safety. It also provides a Secure VPN for encrypting internet traffic and uses Genie AI to monitor the dark web for personal information leaks, notifying users of data breaches. Other Prime Day antivirus options include basic software for single-device protection and family plans with limited device coverage.

AppWizard

July 8, 2025

Gamers hacked playing Call of Duty: WWII—PC version temporarily taken offline

The PC version of Call of Duty: WWII has been temporarily taken offline due to a serious security concern involving a remote code execution (RCE) vulnerability. This flaw allows attackers to execute malicious code on players' machines without consent, leading to unauthorized control during multiplayer sessions. Exploits reported include opening command prompts, sending messages via Notepad, forcing remote shutdowns, and changing desktop wallpapers. The vulnerability is particularly concerning for PC gamers using Microsoft’s Game Pass subscription service, as it stems from the game's reliance on peer-to-peer networking. Activision is speculated to be enhancing its anti-cheat systems in response, but the effectiveness of updates to address the RCE vulnerability is uncertain.