data security Archives

Tech Optimizer

July 4, 2025

Percona launches free open source encryption for PostgreSQL data

Percona has introduced Transparent Data Encryption (TDE) for PostgreSQL as a fully open-source and production-ready solution, enabling organizations to encrypt data at rest and comply with regulations like PCI DSS v4.0 without incurring licensing fees. The TDE extension, named pg_tde, is now part of the Percona Distribution for PostgreSQL and addresses barriers to adopting enterprise-level data encryption in open-source environments. Key features include encryption of all database files on disk, granular encryption policies, seamless integration into existing systems, and streamlined key management with major Key Management Services. The solution supports online key rotation and has minimal performance impact. Percona also provides 24/7 assistance for setup and management, making the solution accessible to organizations of all sizes.

Tech Optimizer

July 2, 2025

CompTIA State of the Tech Workforce 2025 released, Meta joins Kotlin Foundation, Percona launches Transparent Data Encryption for PostgreSQL

CompTIA's State of the Tech Workforce 2025 report shows a 1.2% growth in the tech workforce in 2024, totaling 5.9 million professionals, with projections of reaching 6.1 million by 2025. California, Texas, New York, Florida, and Virginia are the leading states in tech employment, while Texas, North Carolina, Florida, New Jersey, and Tennessee have seen the most growth. Major cities with advancements in tech job opportunities include New York City, Orlando, Sacramento, Salt Lake City, and Baltimore. Meta has joined the Kotlin Foundation to promote Kotlin within its development ecosystem and will contribute to a grants program for open-source library authors. Percona has launched an open-source Transparent Data Encryption extension for PostgreSQL, allowing organizations to secure data at rest without licensing fees or vendor lock-in. The extension supports deployment without application changes, multi-tenant environments, control over encryption strategies, and centralized key management.

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.

Winsage

June 27, 2025

This city is dumping Microsoft Office and Windows for OnlyOffice and Linux

Lyon, the third-largest city in France, is transitioning from Microsoft’s Windows and Office suite to open-source alternatives such as Linux, OnlyOffice, NextCloud, and PostgreSQL. This move is part of a broader strategy among European governments to enhance digital sovereignty and reduce reliance on American technology firms due to concerns over data security and autonomy. The city is developing a collaborative suite called Territoire Numérique Ouvert in partnership with regional digital organizations, which will be hosted in local data centers. The migration process is already underway, with municipal workstations moving from Windows to Linux and Microsoft Office being replaced by OnlyOffice. Lyon expects direct cost savings from this migration, including extending the lifespan of municipal hardware and reducing electronic waste. Over 50% of public contracts related to this project have been awarded to firms within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, all to French companies. Training for approximately 10,000 civil servants began in June 2025 as part of the transition to Linux.

Winsage

June 25, 2025

10 ways to boost Windows security

Windows offers a feature to block annoying applications, which can enhance productivity. The BitLocker feature allows users to verify if their PC's storage is encrypted for data security. Users of outdated versions of Microsoft Office may not receive warnings about security updates, leaving their systems vulnerable. Core isolation settings provide additional security, but their availability depends on the hardware capabilities of each PC.

AppWizard

June 24, 2025

Putin authorises creation of state messaging app to combat WhatsApp and Telegram

Russian President Vladimir Putin has endorsed the development of a state-sponsored messaging application aimed at integrating government services and reducing reliance on foreign platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram. This initiative is part of Russia's broader tech policy focused on digital sovereignty, especially in response to geopolitical tensions since February 2022. Russian lawmakers believe the new app will offer superior features compared to existing platforms, but there are concerns about privacy and government oversight. Mikhail Klimarev, director of the Internet Protection Society, has expressed worries that the government may intentionally slow down WhatsApp and Telegram to encourage users to switch to the new app.

AppWizard

June 24, 2025

WhatsApp ban: US congressional staffers must delete the messenger

The US House of Representatives has banned the use of WhatsApp on all work devices due to cybersecurity concerns, categorizing it as a "high risk" application. The ban is based on criticisms regarding a lack of transparency in user data protection, insufficient encryption of stored data, and potential security vulnerabilities. Employees are instructed to remove the app from their devices, and alternatives such as Microsoft Teams, Wickr, Signal, iMessage, and FaceTime are recommended. This decision aligns WhatsApp with other previously banned applications, and there is speculation that similar guidelines may be adopted by other government agencies.

Winsage

June 23, 2025

This Windows 11 Pro Upgrade Is a No-Brainer at $15

Business leaders can secure a lifetime license for Microsoft Windows 11 Pro for .97, reduced from 9, until July 20. Windows 11 Pro includes features such as BitLocker encryption, Hyper-V virtualization, Azure AD support, and Windows Sandbox. It offers a modernized interface, snap layouts, and Windows Copilot for enhanced productivity. Key management features include Group Policy support and remote desktop functionality, making it suitable for businesses with hybrid teams or sensitive data. The license requires a one-time payment, eliminating renewal or subscription fees.

Winsage

June 22, 2025

With 114 days left until Windows 10 support is ditched, Windows 11 enjoys a last-minute surge in upgrades

Microsoft plans to discontinue support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, despite a strong preference for it among users. As of June 2025, Windows 10's market share dropped from 66% to 49%, while Windows 11's share increased from 29% to over 47%. The gap between the two operating systems has narrowed to 1%. Microsoft has implemented full-screen reminders to encourage users to upgrade to Windows 11, branding 2025 as the "year of the Windows 11 PC refresh." Windows 11 adoption has increased, but many PCs are unable to upgrade due to stringent minimum system requirements, which include a 64-bit processor, at least 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, UEFI firmware with Secure Boot, and TPM version 2.0. Microsoft introduced a new category of Windows 11 PCs called Copilot+ PCs, which feature advanced capabilities and security measures. Starting October 14, 2025, users on Windows 10 will not receive free updates, leaving them vulnerable to security risks. Users whose PCs do not meet the requirements for Windows 11 can either buy new machines or subscribe to the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for continued support. Enterprise users will pay £48 for the first year of ESU, increasing to £192 for the third year, while consumers can access it for £24 for an additional year. Some users are exploring alternatives like Linux or ChromeOS Flex for older hardware.

AppWizard

June 21, 2025

Understanding Android 14 Privacy Changes: Key Insights

The introduction of Android 14 features a sophisticated permissions model that requests app permissions only when needed, allowing users to choose between "approximate" and "precise" location access. Apps handling transactions must justify their need for real-time access. Background location usage must be disclosed in Play Store listings, and developers must complete Data Safety Forms. Android enforces scoped storage, isolating apps in sandboxed environments to reduce data leakage risks. Visual indicators for microphone and camera usage were introduced in Android 12, and Android 14 requires apps to specify the nature of access. In-app transactions in gaming apps must meet elevated security standards, including encryption and biometric logins, and undergo audits under PCI DSS. Background access for location services requires clear justification, and developers must submit a Permission Declaration Form. Google Play mandates disclosure of third-party SDKs and their data practices. User awareness is emphasized through concise permission dialogs and Data Safety summaries in Play Store listings. Secure login protocols like OAuth 2.0 are required for sensitive applications, with stronger encryption mandates. Apps for children must comply with COPPA and GDPR-K regulations, with manual reviews by the Play Store. Google's Privacy Sandbox initiative aims to enhance privacy in advertising practices, with expected rollout in 2024.