digital landscape Archives

Winsage

December 27, 2024

End of Windows 10: Microsoft will phase out your computer by 2025

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 in October 2025, meaning it will no longer receive free security updates. To upgrade to Windows 11, a computer must support TPM 2.0, which many older devices lack. A report indicates that about one in five computers could be left behind due to this requirement, particularly those purchased before 2021. Users should check if their device supports TPM 2.0 and consider budgeting for a new computer if it does not.

Tech Optimizer

December 26, 2024

“I went through hell” Japanese indie dev on how their game was wrongly flagged as a virus, and blocked on Steam

A Japanese indie developer, Shiromofu Factory, launched the game Dungeon Antiqua on October 10, 2024. The game, inspired by early Final Fantasy and Wizardry titles, is available on Windows and macOS and has received a Very Positive review status on Steam. After a December 6 update, users reported virus warnings from antivirus programs like Norton, Avast, and McAfee, which were triggered by the game's use of the Pyxel engine and Pyinstaller for executable files. The developer advised users to exclude the game's .exe file from scans, but on December 12, Steam blocked the game from sale due to multiple virus reports. The developer requested a rollback to an earlier version, which prevented future updates. They purchased Norton Antivirus for testing and attempted various solutions, including filing reports with antivirus companies and considering a code signing certificate. They identified that the use of Python’s “os.remove()” function contributed to the false alerts and implemented a workaround. However, antivirus software retained memory of flagged files, causing continued blocks. Ultimately, flipping the fairy image associated with the game’s file by 180 degrees allowed Dungeon Antiqua to bypass the antivirus barriers and resume updates.

AppWizard

December 25, 2024

Android users who use Amazon are placed on red alert and told to delete app now

A recent alert from McAfee has raised concerns for Android users regarding a health application called BMI CalculationVsn available on Amazon's Appstore. This app, which appears to be a simple Body Mass Index calculator, is capable of recording on-screen activity, accessing private SMS messages, and scanning devices for sensitive information. McAfee discovered that the app secretly steals the package names of installed apps and incoming SMS messages. Following this discovery, McAfee alerted Amazon, which removed the app from its platform. Users who have downloaded the app are advised to uninstall it immediately. McAfee emphasizes the importance of vigilance in digital security, recommending that Android users install reliable antivirus software and carefully review permission requests from apps. Users should also be aware of unusual app behavior, such as decreased device performance, rapid battery drain, and unexpected spikes in data usage, which may indicate malicious activity.

Winsage

December 25, 2024

3 reasons you get more viruses on Windows than on Mac or Linux

The majority of malware is spread through social engineering, targeting users with limited computer security knowledge, particularly among Windows users. Windows has a larger user base, with approximately 1.6 billion devices and over 70% market share, making it a prime target for malware. In contrast, Macs account for about 15% of the market and benefit from robust security protocols, while Linux holds around 5% and its users generally possess higher technical expertise. Windows allows many applications to run with administrator access by default, which can create vulnerabilities, whereas Mac and Linux require explicit permissions for actions, enhancing security. Apple uses digital signatures and sandboxing to protect against malicious software, while Windows' security features are often limited to Pro and Enterprise editions. User behavior and knowledge significantly influence the likelihood of encountering malware, regardless of the operating system used.

Winsage

December 24, 2024

Did you know Windows 11 Pro is only $20?

Windows 10 support will end in October 2025, prompting users to transition to Windows 11 Pro. Windows 11 Pro includes productivity tools like the Microsoft Copilot AI Assistant, which is powered by GPT-4 Turbo. A promotional offer allows users to purchase Windows 11 Pro for .97 until January 12 at 11:59 p.m. PT. Key features of Windows 11 Pro include Snap layouts, enhanced photo editing, improved voice typing, and an upgraded search experience. It also offers security upgrades such as biometric login and encrypted authentication. For gamers, Windows 11 Pro supports DirectX 12 Ultimate for enhanced graphics.

Tech Optimizer

December 23, 2024

Stay Ahead of Cyber Threats: Best Antivirus Software for 2025

One in five organizations experiences a cyberattack annually. The complexity and frequency of cyber threats are expected to increase in the coming years. Comprehensive antivirus software is essential for protection against various dangers, including malware, spyware, ransomware, and phishing. Prioritizing cybersecurity helps organizations protect sensitive data and build trust with clients and stakeholders.

AppWizard

December 23, 2024

A Guide to Minecraft Switch Add-Ons and Addons Downloads

Essential cookies are crucial for the smooth and efficient operation of websites, responding to user actions such as adjusting privacy settings, logging in, or completing forms. Blocking these cookies may hinder website functionality and limit access to certain features. They do not retain personally identifiable information and are solely designed to enhance user experience.

AppWizard

December 23, 2024

Exploring Gaming Addons: Enhancing the Minecraft Switch Experience

Essential cookies are crucial for the operation of a website, activated by user actions such as adjusting privacy settings or logging in. Users can block or receive alerts about these cookies, but doing so may affect website performance. These cookies do not retain personally identifiable information, prioritizing user privacy while ensuring functionality.

AppWizard

December 23, 2024

Urgent Android warning for anyone who uses Amazon – delete dangerous app now

McAfee's security team discovered a malicious app named "BMI CalculationVsn" in Amazon's Android Appstore, which pretended to be a health tracker but was capable of screen recording, password theft, and accessing private SMS messages. Following the report, Amazon removed the app from its platform, and users who downloaded it are advised to uninstall it immediately. McAfee recommends that Android users install reliable antivirus software, scrutinize permission requests before downloading apps, and monitor app behavior for unusual activity to enhance their security.

Winsage

December 21, 2024

Microsoft Edge won’t stop nagging users to set itself as default on Windows 11

Microsoft is implementing new pop-ups in Edge to encourage users to set it as their default browser on Windows 11, following regulatory changes in the EU that allow users to choose their default browser easily. Recent references in Edge Canary indicate features under development, such as a button labeled “msNurturingDefaultBrowserBannerUX2OneBtn” that promotes Edge. Users may encounter prompts urging them to use Microsoft Edge for enhanced security against phishing and malware, with options to confirm or postpone their decision. The design of these pop-ups is being tested, and users cannot opt out of receiving them. Similar promotional tactics are used by competitors like Google to promote their browsers.