Deception Archives

AppWizard

June 26, 2026

Meccha Chameleon review

Meccha Chameleon is a game developed and published by lemorion_1224, priced at £5.29, that offers a unique twist on the hide-and-seek format through a camouflage mechanic using hand-painted designs. Players transform featureless marble figures into parts of the environment using a brush and eyedropper tool during the hiding phase. The game emphasizes creativity and strategy, challenging players to manipulate visual perception to remain undetected. It was created by a small team of two developers, which has led to some production limitations, such as collision issues and a simplistic user interface. Despite these challenges, the game's handmade quality adds charm and encourages players to embrace its imperfections.

AppWizard

June 19, 2026

Rokarolla trojan uses screen overlays to hijack Android financial apps

A new banking trojan for Android, named Rokarolla, targets 217 applications, including banking and cryptocurrency platforms, to steal credentials and sensitive financial data. It operates via a command and control (C2) server and bypasses the Google Play Store by using phishing websites that mimic legitimate download portals. Users are tricked into downloading a dropper that installs the malware, which disguises itself as the Google Play Protect security tool to gain access to Android Accessibility Services. Rokarolla employs dynamic screen overlays to capture user input in targeted financial applications and can also impersonate the device's lock screen. Additionally, it uses a pseudo-VNC system to intermittently capture screenshots for data extraction and can modify clipboard contents to manipulate cryptocurrency transactions by replacing copied addresses with those controlled by attackers.

Tech Optimizer

June 18, 2026

I tested Norton’s Deepfake Protection — and it finally convinced me my next laptop needs an NPU

The landscape of online security has evolved significantly, with deepfake technology introducing new challenges. Users must be vigilant against both traditional malware and convincing fake images and videos. Antivirus software developers are enhancing their products by integrating cloud-based AI for better threat detection. For users with computers featuring neural processing units (NPUs), local solutions are available, such as Norton’s Deepfake Protection, which analyzes synthetic voices and images to flag potential threats. This feature operates in the background, providing peace of mind during online interactions. Norton 360 includes options for Deepfake Protection, Safe Web, and Safe SMS, but requires sufficient system resources to function effectively. Running this protection on older laptops may hinder performance, making NPUs a worthwhile investment for enhanced security against deepfakes and other online threats.

AppWizard

June 9, 2026

This New Computer Virus Is Disguising Itself As A Popular Video Game

Old-school gaming consoles are seeing a resurgence, but hackers are exploiting this trend with a malware campaign called "WeedHack," which emerged in January. This malware operates on a "Malware-as-a-Service" model, allowing users to purchase it to infect victims. WeedHack functions as a remote access infostealer, compromising computers to manipulate screens, access webcams, and steal sensitive data. It propagates by enticing users with unofficial "Minecraft" mods and clients, often using videos and download links as bait. Additionally, it employs "SEO poisoning" to promote fake websites as legitimate sources for these mods on platforms like Discord and Reddit. WeedHack disguises itself as a JAR file, similar to the official "Minecraft" client, and once executed, it installs its payload from Ethereum server domains. It can insert itself into antivirus exclusion lists, evading detection, and McAfee's tests show that Windows Defender is ineffective against it. The malware collects extensive information, including Wi-Fi networks and browser cookies, and grants hackers complete control over infected computers. The WeedHack virus serves as both malware and a training ground for aspiring hackers, structured into two tiers: a free version with core capabilities and a paid subscription for advanced features. A community has formed around WeedHack, offering tutorials, a Discord server, and a website for feature requests and custom payload creation. This community aspect lowers the barrier for newcomers, particularly targeting a younger audience that may not understand online safety.

AppWizard

June 8, 2026

Everything Revealed During The PC Gaming Show 2026

The PC Gaming Show 2026 featured over 60 new game announcements in a two-hour event. Key titles include: - Wielders of the Essence: Launching on November 5, demo available on Steam. - Warhammer 40,000: Darktide – Skitarii Class: Debuting on June 23, wishlist on Steam. - Spellsided: Unique RPG with a demo on Steam. - Star Trek: Outposts Unknown: Demo available on Steam. - Hack '95: Demo available on Steam. - Company of Heroes: Definitive Edition: Wishlist on Steam. - Red Kiss: Wishlist on Steam. - Arcane Eats: Demo available on Steam. - Serious Sam: Shatterverse: Sign up for playtest on Steam. - Control Resonant: Pre-orders available for September 24 release on Steam. - Sated: Wishlist on Steam. - Gone Feral: Wishlist and sign up for playtest on Steam. - Abiotic Factor – Entropic Break DLC: Coming this autumn, wishlist on Steam. - There Are No Ghosts at the Grand: Demo available on Steam. - Ssarseeker: Astroneer Expeditions: Early access begins June 11, wishlist on Steam. - Virtue and a Sledgehammer: Demo available on Steam. - Happy Bastards: Combat demo available on Steam. - Another Door: Demo available on Steam. - AfterQuest: Wishlist on Steam. - SlashZero: Wishlist and sign up for playtest on Steam. - Cassette Beasts 2002: Wishlist on Steam. - VOID/BREAKER: Major update available on Steam. - 2 Fights 2 Tight Spaces: Available now on Steam. - Stronghold 4: Demo available on June 23, wishlist on Steam. - Wind Runners: Demo available on Steam. - Wardens of Avalon: Sign up for playtest on Steam. - Planet Zoo 2: Pre-orders available on Steam. - Empulse: Early access on June 24, available during Steam Next Feast on June 15. - Arkheron: Sign up for playtest on the game's website. - ReVamp: Sign up for playtest via the trailer's QR code. - Wardogs: Wishlist on Steam and sign up for playtests via the trailer's QR code. - Shroom and Gloom: New demo available. - Maximum Thunderness: Coming later this year, wishlist on Steam. - Rivage: Demo available. - Time Strike: Wishlist on Steam. - Signet City: Wishlist on Steam. - Mr. Magpie's Harmless Card Game: Available now on Steam. - Ascenders: Beyond the Peak: Demo available on Steam. - Outward 2: Beta available now. - Thief: The Dark Project Remastered: Remastering classic stealth game. - Exo Rally Championship: Off-road racing game. - Duskers 2.0: Available on Steam. - El Paso, Elsewhere 2: Wishlist on Steam. - Beast of Reincarnation: Launching on August 3, pre-order on Steam. - Terrinoth: Heroes of Descent: Available now on Steam. - To Kill a God: Demo available now. - Pipes.exe: Wishlist on Steam. - Sunset Summit: Available now on Steam. - Clowntown: Available for wishlist on Steam. - Armatus: Launching this winter, wishlist on Steam. - Dave The Diver – In the Jungle DLC: Wishlist on Steam. - Carcass Clad: Wishlist on Steam. - Total War: Warhammer 40,000: Beta opportunities to be announced. - About Fishing: Demo available on Steam. - Vampire: The Masquerade – Eternal Whispers: Emphasizes meaningful choices. - Valheim 1.0: Launching on September 9, 2026, download on Steam now. - P.O.N.: Wishlist on Steam. - Locator: The Search for Abigail Lidari: Wishlist on Steam. - Exodus: Features combat and exploration. - Remothered: Red Nun's Legacy: Third installment in the horror series. - Into the Wind: Wishlist on Steam.

AppWizard

June 2, 2026

Google Phone app rolling out Android fake call detection that uses RCS

Phone by Google is introducing a fake call detection feature to protect Android users from impersonation scams that use AI-powered deepfake technology. This feature requires both parties to use Android devices with the Phone by Google app, Google Messages, and Google Contacts. It works by sending a silent confirmation signal to verify the legitimacy of a call. If an impersonation attempt is detected, the user's phone will check with the actual contact's device, and if the real device indicates that it is not making a call, a warning will appear on the user's screen. The feature will roll out globally for Android 12+ devices, starting with Pixel phones, and will be enabled by default. The underlying RCS technology may also be adopted by other apps and manufacturers.

Tech Optimizer

May 27, 2026

NordVPN’s New App Acts as an All-in-One Digital Privacy and Security Hub

A virtual private network (VPN) does not protect against fraudulent banking links or harmful files. NordVPN has enhanced its VPN application by integrating antivirus features, evolving into a comprehensive digital privacy and security service. The revamped app is based on three pillars: Connect, Protect, and Monitor, offering tools such as VPN services, scam and phishing protection, and Dark Web Monitor. NordVPN's approach aims to intercept threats early, focusing on deception tactics used in modern scams. The company's next-generation antivirus system uses a dual-layer detection strategy, evaluating URLs in real-time and scanning files for malware. In April, NordVPN blocked 4.8 million threat events, including malware and phishing attempts. The company emphasizes minimal data collection for threat decisions and offers three subscription tiers: Basic, Complete, and Prime, each with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Users are reminded that no app can fully protect against cybersecurity threats, and best practices like strong passwords and multifactor authentication are essential.

Tech Optimizer

May 25, 2026

What The Tech: Is an anti-virus software needed for smartphones?

Most smartphone users do not require antivirus applications, as the primary threats are scams rather than traditional viruses. iPhones have a secure operating system that limits antivirus functionality, focusing on scams like deceptive texts and phishing links. Android devices allow sideloading, increasing the risk of malware from unofficial sources. Best practices for smartphone safety include downloading apps from official stores, using trusted developers, avoiding dubious links, keeping the operating system updated, using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and refraining from installing apps from unknown sources. Antivirus apps may be beneficial for users who frequently click on links, download files from unfamiliar websites, install many applications, engage in Android sideloading, or seek additional protection against scams. Reputable security apps prioritize scam detection and unsafe website identification over traditional virus scanning.

AppWizard

May 25, 2026

Over 200 Fake Android Apps Are Quietly Stealing Money From Phone Bills

Zimperium identified a sophisticated malware campaign that exploited nearly 250 Android applications, posing as popular games and social media platforms. The malware ensnared users into premium subscription services without consent, using techniques like JavaScript injection and interception of one-time passwords. The campaign primarily targeted users in Malaysia, Romania, Thailand, and Croatia, with the malware capable of reading SIM cards and activating for specific mobile carriers. Zimperium first detected the scam in March 2025 and monitored it until at least January 2026. Google stated that none of the compromised applications were available on its app store and emphasized that Android users are protected by Google Play Protect. The hackers deployed three malware variants, with the first using an automated subscription engine, the second targeting users in Thailand with premium SMS messages, and the third combining SMS fraud with real-time notifications to attackers via Telegram. The campaign primarily affected Malaysian SIM card users, with significant activity also in Thailand and Romania. Despite the campaign's last known activity in January, parts of its infrastructure remain operational. The attacks highlight vulnerabilities in application security and the challenges of policing app downloads from third-party marketplaces.

Tech Optimizer

May 22, 2026

What the Tech: Phone antivirus apps |Helpful protection or a scam?

Most individuals do not require antivirus apps on their smartphones, as the primary threats have shifted from traditional viruses to scams and deceptive practices. iPhones utilize app isolation, making them less susceptible to conventional viruses but vulnerable to scams like phishing and fraudulent messages. Android phones allow sideloading, increasing the risk of malware from unofficial sources. The main threats include phishing texts, fake login pages, scam calls, reused passwords, and social engineering tactics. To enhance security, users should keep their phones updated, use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, avoid suspicious links, and refrain from installing apps from unknown sources. Antivirus apps may be helpful in specific situations, such as frequent link tapping or downloading files from unfamiliar websites, with reputable companies offering mobile security solutions focused on scam detection and account safety.