data security Archives

Winsage

August 19, 2025

10 open-source apps I recommend every Windows user download

Open-source software provides alternatives to proprietary applications for Windows users, enhancing productivity without traditional software licenses. 1. LibreOffice is a free office suite that includes word processing, spreadsheets, and a database component, operates locally, and supports MS Office formats. 2. Flow Launcher is a free file search and application launcher that allows quick access to applications and files through a customizable hotkey. 3. Duplicati is a free backup solution that supports various storage destinations, offers encryption, scheduling, and remote management for data security. 4. Nextcloud is a free, locally hosted file storage and collaboration solution that allows users to control their personal data. 5. Franz is a free application that consolidates multiple messaging platforms into a single interface for easier communication. 6. YAZB (YAZB Reborn) is a free tool that customizes the Windows experience by creating a top bar displaying system information. 7. File Converter is a free application that allows users to convert various file formats through a right-click context menu option. 8. Bitwarden is a free open-source password manager that offers password generation and secure file sharing, with premium features available. 9. AutoHotKey is a free tool for automating tasks through scripting, enabling the creation of hotkeys and macros. 10. Ollama is a free open-source AI application that allows local interaction with AI models, ensuring data privacy.

AppWizard

August 17, 2025

Android will soon become better at backing up your data

The latest beta version of Google Play Services (version 26.32.31 beta) indicates that Google may soon introduce a feature allowing users to select additional folders for backup, including the "Downloads" folder. Currently, automatic online backups do not include certain data, such as encrypted data from applications. The source code suggests that users may soon be able to back up specific directories, with a reference to "documents" indicating potential selective backups based on file types.

Winsage

August 9, 2025

9 Hidden Default Settings and Behaviors on Windows 11

Windows 11 has several default settings that users may not be aware of: 1. Windows Update can utilize renewable energy by scheduling installations during times of lower carbon intensity. 2. Microsoft accounts automatically back up apps and settings, but individual item restoration is not available. 3. Delivery Optimization is enabled by default, allowing updates to be downloaded from both Microsoft servers and local devices. 4. The "Find My Device" feature is automatically turned on for Microsoft account users to help locate lost or stolen computers. 5. Device Encryption (BitLocker) is enabled by default, with the decryption key stored in the user's Microsoft account. 6. System Protection is disabled by default, requiring users to enable it manually for recovery capabilities. 7. Storage Sense is enabled by default to automatically delete unnecessary files and free up disk space. 8. Hibernation is disabled by default, likely due to hardware compatibility issues. 9. The default account lockout policy allows for 10 invalid sign-in attempts before locking the account for 10 minutes.

Winsage

August 3, 2025

Microsoft to Open-Source WinUI Components for Windows 11

Microsoft Corp. plans to open-source key components of the Windows 11 user interface framework, WinUI, over the next six months. This initiative aims to enhance transparency and collaboration, driven by demands from developers and the tech community. The process involves carefully disentangling publishable code from sensitive areas to ensure system security and protect intellectual property. Industry observers believe this could empower developers to customize Windows interfaces, potentially accelerating innovation in app design. Microsoft is adopting a phased approach, starting with isolating components and establishing new governance models for contributions. Developer feedback indicates cautious optimism, with hopes for quicker bug fixes and feature additions, though concerns about the scope of the initiative persist. Microsoft intends to share more details and potentially previews of open-sourced repositories on GitHub. Balancing openness with user data security and system integrity remains a critical challenge for the company.

AppWizard

August 1, 2025

6 reasons why I prefer self hosted apps — and why you should too

Self-hosting and operating personal applications on home labs or NAS devices have gained popularity as individuals seek alternatives to commercial applications. The motivation for self-hosting includes filling gaps left by commercial apps, enhancing data privacy, and reclaiming control over applications. Users experience frustrations with changing app functionalities and subscription fees, leading them to prefer open-source solutions. Self-hosted applications provide secure data storage, tailored backup strategies, and uninterrupted access during internet outages. Customization is a significant advantage, allowing users to adapt applications to their specific needs. Self-hosting also offers transparency and control over data security, fostering a sense of ownership. Overall, self-hosting presents a viable alternative to cloud-based tools, empowering users to manage their digital environments more effectively.

AppWizard

July 29, 2025

Tea app takes messaging system offline after DMs exposed in security…

Tea, a dating discussion app, has temporarily taken its messaging system offline following a cybersecurity incident that exposed some users' direct messages. The company announced this precautionary measure to safeguard user information and is conducting a thorough investigation into the breach. Users can still access other functionalities of the app while the messaging feature remains unavailable. Tea's management is working to restore the messaging system once a secure environment is ensured.

AppWizard

July 21, 2025

WhatsApp Said to Be Developing Quick Recap Feature for Unread Messages

WhatsApp is developing a feature called Quick Recap for its Android app, currently in testing within beta version 2.25.21.12. This feature will allow users to generate concise summaries of unread messages from up to five selected conversations, located in the three-dot menu. Quick Recap utilizes Private Processing for data security, ensuring user data remains secure during processing. It will be optional and disabled by default, with users able to activate it in app settings. Conversations with Advanced Chat Privacy enabled will not be compatible with this feature. The launch timeline for Quick Recap has not been disclosed.

Winsage

July 15, 2025

Windows 11 tests AI-generated image descriptions on Copilot+ PCs

Microsoft has introduced a feature called "Describe Image" for Dev Channel users on Copilot+ PCs, which generates descriptions of visual elements using local AI capabilities. This feature enhances visual accessibility by allowing users to understand images, charts, and graphs quickly. The AI models are established locally, ensuring data security as no information is sent outside the user's PC. Currently, it is available to Windows Insiders on Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs, with plans to expand to AMD and Intel systems soon.

Winsage

July 9, 2025

No more blue screens: How Microsoft is making Windows more resilient

The Windows Recovery Environment is undergoing a transformation to improve usability and efficiency. Key changes include a redesign of the black screen of death to provide a more informative experience, the upcoming introduction of a protected print mode to enhance security, and the automatic encryption of storage on new PCs to protect user data from unauthorized access.

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.