device security Archives

Winsage

May 24, 2026

Windows Secure Boot certificates start expiring June 24

Windows Secure Boot is a feature of the Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) specification that enhances system security by ensuring only trusted software is loaded during the startup sequence. It verifies the digital signatures of boot components to protect against malicious software and unauthorized access. Key aspects include enhanced security by preventing untrusted code execution, compatibility with various hardware and software configurations, and user control over Secure Boot settings for customization.

AppWizard

May 14, 2026

5 Android App Permissions You Should Never Allow

Users should be cautious when granting permissions to applications on Android devices, as extensive access can lead to security vulnerabilities. Apps with accessibility permissions can perform actions like hacking passwords and altering device settings without user consent. Overlay permissions allow apps to display content over others, which can be exploited by malicious apps to trick users into providing sensitive information. Installing apps from unknown sources poses risks to device security and privacy. Usage data access enables apps to monitor user activity, which can be sold to advertisers. Granting access to contacts and SMS can lead to privacy concerns, as this information can be exploited by malicious entities. Users are advised to regularly review and manage app permissions to mitigate potential threats.

AppWizard

May 13, 2026

What’s New in Android Security and Privacy in 2026

The company is implementing default-on theft protections globally for all new Android 17 devices and those recently reset or upgraded. This initiative follows a successful pilot in Brazil and will also extend to devices running Android 10 or higher in Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and the UK. Features like Remote Lock and Theft Detection Lock will automatically activate to enhance security against theft. The frequency of PIN or password attempts has been reduced, with longer wait times between failed attempts to deter brute-force attacks. Users can access their device's IMEI from the lock screen on Android 12 or higher, aiding in the recovery of stolen devices. Additionally, Android 17 introduces a temporary location sharing button for specific applications, allowing users to share their location without permanent permissions.

Tech Optimizer

May 10, 2026

‘People use smartphones more but invest less in their security’: New report claims McAfee and Norton remain the most loved antivirus brands as users ditch lesser-known security products for free tools like Microsoft Defender or Apple Xprotect

Recent findings indicate that only 18% of American smartphone users invest in third-party antivirus software, despite the increasing reliance on mobile devices. A survey of over 1,000 adults revealed a significant gap in mobile security awareness. The adoption of paid antivirus solutions on computers has increased by 2% to 41%, while the use of third-party antivirus on mobile devices has decreased by approximately 10%, from 28% to 18%. Although ransomware attacks on smartphones are less common, many users may underestimate modern cyber threats. A considerable number of mobile users remain unprotected or unsure about their device security measures.

Winsage

May 10, 2026

I dug into the new Windows Update rules coming to Windows 11, and these are the 5 things you need to know

Microsoft is implementing enhancements in Windows 11 to improve the Windows Update experience for users. Key changes include new pause controls, a redesigned Power menu, reduced forced restarts, and smarter recovery features for failed updates. A new system will automatically resolve installation issues in the background, reducing the need for manual troubleshooting. Users can now skip system updates during the Out-of-box Experience (OOBE), but doing so will prevent the download of the latest drivers, features, or security patches until a manual download is initiated or automatic updates resume. Despite these improvements, there are still limitations on user control over updates, such as the need for manual extensions to pause updates indefinitely and the requirement to confirm skipping updates twice during setup.

Winsage

May 9, 2026

Windows 11 is changing how Windows Update works — here are the 5 things Microsoft says will matter most

Microsoft is making changes to Windows Update in Windows 11 to improve the user experience. Key updates include: 1. Users can now pause automatic updates indefinitely, although they must reschedule the pause before the initial 35-day limit expires. 2. The Power menu will clearly separate update-related actions from standard power options, allowing users to choose "Update and shut down" or "Update and restart" without unintentionally installing updates. 3. Driver updates will have more descriptive labels, and a collapsible "Available updates" section will organize updates awaiting installation. Microsoft plans to consolidate updates into a single monthly cycle to reduce required restarts to one per month. 4. A new system will automatically resolve installation issues during updates, reducing the need for user intervention. 5. Users can skip system updates during the Out-of-box Experience (OOBE), but doing so will prevent the download of the latest drivers, features, or security patches until updates are manually triggered or resumed automatically.

AppWizard

May 6, 2026

May 2026’s Pixel update is here to fix charging speeds and camera app freezes

Google is rolling out the May 2026 software update for all supported Pixel devices running Android 16, which includes the Pixel 7a, Pixel 8 series, Pixel 8a, Pixel 9 series, Pixel 9a, Pixel 10 series, Pixel Tablet, and Pixel Fold, under the build number CP1A.260505.005. The update addresses known issues and brings enhancements to the devices listed. However, for Pixel 10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL, and 10 Pro Fold users, the update includes a bootloader change that prevents rolling back to previous versions of the bootloader after installation.

Winsage

May 5, 2026

Microsoft confirms Windows 11 may restart multiple times after updates and your PC isn’t broken, as it’s due to Secure Boot 2023

Upon installing the April 2026 Patch Tuesday update, some users experienced two or three reboots, which Microsoft confirmed is intentional due to the installation of Secure Boot 2023 certificates. This behavior is expected for a limited number of devices and is part of the Secure Boot update process. The Secure Boot certificates are replacing older ones issued in 2011, set to expire in June 2026. Users can check their Secure Boot status in the Windows Security app, which indicates the status with green, yellow, or red badges. A green badge means the system is up to date, while yellow and red badges indicate issues with certificate updates. Microsoft is managing Secure Boot certificates on modern PCs, but older machines without OEM support may struggle to receive updates due to firmware limitations.

Winsage

May 5, 2026

Windows 11 restarts several times after a recent update? Don’t panic

After the installation of the optional April 2026 update, users may experience multiple restarts of their PCs, which is normal due to the Secure Boot certificate refresh process. This behavior may also occur with future updates as Microsoft implements Secure Boot certificate refreshes. Windows updates typically require a single reboot, but significant feature updates or firmware and driver updates may necessitate two or three reboots. Many Windows devices manufactured before 2024 have outdated Secure Boot certificates that need updating, as these certificates will expire in June 2026. Microsoft began rolling out updated Secure Boot certificates in March, but this rollout is staggered. Users can check their PC's Secure Boot certificate status in Windows Security under "Device security." The status is indicated by colored icons: green (up to date), yellow (update pending), and red (action required). Older devices may face issues with the certificate refresh if they lack up-to-date firmware or compatible BIOS updates. If Windows reports an error, the device manufacturer is typically responsible for resolving it. Users should verify that Secure Boot certificates were installed correctly after updates to ensure continued secure booting beyond June.

Winsage

May 3, 2026

Microsoft Defender Adds Dashboard for 2011 Secure Boot Certificates

Microsoft has introduced a feature in the Microsoft Defender dashboard to help IT managers identify devices using 2011 Secure Boot certificates, which expire in June of this year. The recommendation view categorizes devices into three groups: Exposed Devices (trust outdated certificates), Compliant Devices (use new 2023 certificates), and Not Applicable Devices (Secure Boot disabled or unsupported). The dashboard provides a centralized overview of device security status and the distribution of 2023 certificates, allowing filtering by operating system and device context. Devices without the new certificates will still boot but may lack the latest protection during the early boot phase, exposing them to threats. Microsoft does not automatically distribute new certificates via Windows updates on servers, requiring manual action from administrators. The dashboard aids IT teams in prioritizing action on Exposed Devices and exporting data for collaboration.