data protection Archives

AppWizard

July 16, 2025

Samsung fixes the Secure Folder flaw that let anyone see what apps you’re hiding

Samsung has addressed a vulnerability in its Secure Folder feature that previously allowed individuals with physical access to a device to view hidden apps and photos. This flaw arose from the Secure Folder being classified as a "work profile," which certain system components did not recognize as secure. With the release of One UI 8, Samsung has reclassified Secure Folder as a "private" profile, ensuring it is treated as a secure space by Google’s components. This change prevents unauthorized access to its contents, but the Secure Folder must be fully hidden for enhanced protection. However, it currently does not integrate with third-party launchers, as Samsung has not yet implemented the necessary APIs for compatibility.

Winsage

July 13, 2025

Think Windows 11 will be a nightmare? Not with this…

A Windows 11 Pro key and a comprehensive training course are available for .97 until July 15, down from the regular price of 9. The bundle includes a legitimate Windows 11 Pro license and a course covering fundamental and advanced features. Key features of Windows 11 Pro include BitLocker encryption, Hyper-V virtualization, Windows Sandbox, AI-powered Copilot, Snap Layouts, advanced voice typing, DirectX 12 Ultimate, and support for multiple desktops. The training course teaches automation, system security enhancement, personalization, troubleshooting, audio optimization, storage management, and effective use of Microsoft 365 applications.

Winsage

July 9, 2025

Businesses warned about looming software deadline that could risk cyber attacks

Calne-based Black Nova Designs has warned that Microsoft will cease support for Windows 10 in three months, which will leave millions of users without security updates or technical assistance, increasing their vulnerability to cyber threats. Managing director Kyle Holmes noted the lack of awareness about this change and emphasized the risks involved. The company recommends six IT tips for businesses: 1. Upgrade from Windows 10 promptly, especially for machines older than 2018. 2. Regularly back up data and maintain robust antivirus protection, with services starting at £60+VAT per month. 3. Strengthen passwords to mitigate vulnerabilities. 4. Verify that correct Microsoft licenses are being used to avoid potential fines. 5. Ensure proper ownership and access to website domains. 6. Seek Cyber Essentials certification to demonstrate adherence to cybersecurity best practices. Black Nova Designs supports over 1,000 clients across the UK, focusing on cybersecurity and proactive IT management.

AppWizard

July 8, 2025

Jack Dorsey quietly dropped a game-changing chat app and it’s already full: All about it

Tech entrepreneur Jack Dorsey has launched a decentralized messaging application called Bitchat, designed to function independently of the internet and without the need for personal information. The app facilitates peer-to-peer messaging through Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) mesh networks, allowing communication over distances greater than 300 meters without cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity. It is currently in beta testing via Apple’s TestFlight. A whitepaper on GitHub details its functionality, with each phone acting as both sender and receiver for multi-hop message transfers. Bitchat prioritizes user privacy by not requiring a phone number or email address. Messages are temporarily stored on devices, with an automatic caching system to ensure delivery when the recipient reconnects to the network. The app features a tiered message retention system, where standard messages are deleted after 12 hours and “favourites” are kept indefinitely. It uses end-to-end encryption with Curve25519 and AES-GCM for data protection. The app includes user mentions, topic-based rooms, and password protection for secure communications, positioning itself as an alternative to traditional centralized messaging platforms.

AppWizard

July 7, 2025

Google Gemini app gains automatic Android access to phone and messaging data

On July 7, 2025, Google Gemini app users experienced automatic activation of permissions for accessing phone calls, messaging services, WhatsApp, and system utilities on Android devices, following a privacy policy update on June 11, 2025. This change affects millions of users globally and allows user data to be reviewed by humans for AI training. Users can disable these permissions through the app's settings, but the option to opt-out is criticized for being difficult to find. Legal experts have raised concerns about compliance with GDPR regulations due to the lack of explicit user consent for these changes. The data collected supports machine-learning development and may be retained for up to three years, even after users delete their activity.

Tech Optimizer

July 2, 2025

Coming to PostgreSQL

Transparent Data Encryption (TDE) is a method for securing data at the storage layer, which PostgreSQL lacks in its open-source version. Percona has developed a TDE extension called pg_tde, included in the Percona Distribution for PostgreSQL, and aims to integrate it into the main PostgreSQL distribution. The extension is beneficial for organizations needing to comply with regulations like GDPR. EDB also offers a TDE solution, but only within its licensed products. Percona's TDE provides enterprise-grade data-at-rest protection without licensing fees. The extension encrypts all database files on disk and features centralized Key Management, compatible with various Key Management Services (KMS) providers.

Tech Optimizer

July 1, 2025

Percona Launches First-Ever Open Source Transparent Data Encryption for PostgreSQL

Percona has launched its Transparent Data Encryption (TDE) extension for Percona for PostgreSQL, enabling organizations to secure sensitive data at rest and comply with regulations without incurring licensing fees or vendor lock-in. The TDE extension provides automatic and transparent encryption of data, supports compliance with regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, SOX, and PCI DSS v4.0, and offers features such as open-source availability, stronger data protection, granular user-controlled encryption, seamless integration, centralized key management, minimal performance impact, and trusted support services. The pg_tde extension is now part of the Percona Distribution for PostgreSQL, enhancing security for customers needing encryption compliance.

Tech Optimizer

July 1, 2025

Industry Exchange Data 2025: EDB’s Jeremy Wilson on how to secure your data (Psst: Secure your database)

All software is susceptible to security vulnerabilities, but open-source solutions can enhance defenses against cyber threats, according to Jeremy Wilson, CTO for the North America public sector at EDB. He noted that the global community continuously inspects open-source code, leading to fewer issues and quicker resolutions. EDB's PostgreSQL database product is designed for online transaction systems, data warehousing, and analytics, incorporating security enhancements and performance improvements. EDB synchronizes its release cycles with the open-source community and aims to meet regulatory requirements, including obtaining FedRAMP High certification. EDB collaborates with Red Hat to implement security controls and has integrated features like transparent data encryption and APIs to support zero trust cybersecurity initiatives. Wilson acknowledged challenges agencies face when transitioning to open-source solutions, including legacy systems and regulatory compliance hurdles. EDB aims to provide a turnkey enterprise database that simplifies the migration of applications, ensuring compliance with FIPS 140-3 and DISA STIGs.

Tech Optimizer

June 28, 2025

Norton AntiVirus Plus for Mac

Windows is the primary target for malware attacks, leading to a focus on antivirus applications for the platform, while macOS users have fewer options. Norton AntiVirus Plus for Mac offers robust cross-platform protection and has received perfect scores from independent testing labs, excelling in phishing protection. It is priced at approximately .99 annually for a single license and .99 for a five-license subscription. Norton supports the latest three macOS versions: Sequoia (15), Sonoma (14), and Ventura (13). The Gen stack, a new antivirus engine, consolidates technology from Norton, Avast, and AVG, ensuring consistent performance. Norton achieved a perfect score of 18 points in independent testing, with a 100% detection rate for Mac malware and Windows-specific threats. It offers flexible scanning options, with quick scans completing in 30 seconds and full scans in 27 minutes. Norton has a 100% detection rate for phishing sites and includes a smart firewall and intrusion prevention system. Its password manager offers basic functions but lacks advanced features. Norton Genie is an AI-based scam detection tool integrated into the ecosystem. The software includes performance improvement tools like File Cleanup and Startup Manager, but privacy components require separate purchases.

AppWizard

June 26, 2025

Sends Messenger sees rapid growth, expanding user base in India

Sends Messenger has gained popularity as a leading chat application in India, experiencing a significant increase in downloads due to its focus on secure messaging. The app prioritizes privacy with features such as end-to-end encryption, user anonymity, and a no data-sharing policy. It offers a user-friendly interface with advanced security options, including self-destructing messages and private group chats. The development team is working on adding payment solutions within the app for seamless money transactions. The app's growth is fueled by rising awareness of digital privacy and the demand for secure, feature-rich platforms in India's large market of over 800 million smartphone users. Sends Messenger is available for download on the App Store and Google Play.