digital threats Archives

AppWizard

June 21, 2025

Hundreds of Minecraft mods on GitHub are infested with hard-to-spot spyware

A sophisticated malware campaign known as the “Stargazers Ghost” network is targeting young gamers, particularly those playing Minecraft, to capture sensitive login information and personal data. This operation, based in a Russian-speaking region, uses a two-pronged approach: initially acquiring login credentials and then extracting more extensive personal information, including passwords and cryptocurrency details. The malware has infiltrated over 500 GitHub repositories, disguising itself within Minecraft Java installers to evade antivirus protections. GitHub, while monitoring for malicious content, faces challenges due to the volume of attacks. To enhance safety, parents are advised to vet GitHub pages, test mods on a “burner” account, and restrict access to official mods in the “Bedrock Edition” of the game.

AppWizard

June 5, 2025

Emerging online scams are making users more vigilant, says Google

Over 60% of U.S. consumers have encountered scams, indicating a growing awareness of digital threats. More than 60% of Gen X and Baby Boomers still use traditional passwords, while younger generations prefer passkeys. Google has enhanced scam detection capabilities on Android devices, introducing features to identify potential scams in calls and texts. Over 60% of consumers perceive an increase in scams over the past year, with one-third reporting personal data breaches. Google promotes passwordless sign-in options like passkeys and "Sign in with Google" to improve security. Recent updates include enhanced scam detection in Google Messages and Chrome, and the Safety Check feature in Chrome now monitors for malicious notifications. Google has also released findings on prevalent scams, such as customer support fraud and package tracking schemes.

Tech Optimizer

June 3, 2025

I tested Bitdefender and McAfee in an antivirus software showdown, and here’s what I found

Bitdefender and McAfee are two leading antivirus software options known for robust malware protection and additional security features. Bitdefender achieves 98% effectiveness in real-time threat detection, while McAfee uses machine learning for threat identification but may produce false positives. Bitdefender offers a basic firewall, not available for macOS, whereas McAfee provides a more advanced firewall with device monitoring. Bitdefender has a standalone Digital Identity Protection service, while McAfee offers comprehensive identity theft protections in its Premium subscription. Bitdefender includes a VPN with a 200MB daily data cap, while McAfee provides unlimited VPN access but with fewer countries and features. Both offer password managers, but Bitdefender lacks two-factor authentication, while McAfee's True Key includes multi-factor authentication. Bitdefender’s parental controls are basic, while McAfee’s Safe Family includes location tracking. Bitdefender is known for lightweight performance, but recent tests suggest McAfee may have better system optimization. Both have user-friendly interfaces, with Bitdefender organizing features into tabs and McAfee offering a simpler design. In terms of protection, Bitdefender has a 98.7% detection rate, while McAfee excels online with 99.6% but struggles offline. Bitdefender's pricing starts at .99 for the first year, while McAfee's Basic plan starts at .99. Overall, Bitdefender is more budget-friendly, while McAfee offers advanced identity theft protection.

Tech Optimizer

May 29, 2025

A Trojan-Downloading Website Is Imitating a Popular Antivirus Website

Hackers are increasingly using sophisticated techniques to entice users into downloading malware, with many individuals still falling victim to basic social engineering tactics. A counterfeit website mimicking the legitimate antivirus program Bitdefender has been created, which could mislead users. This spoofed site hosts a bundled executable named StoreInstaller.exe that contains malware configurations linked to VenomRAT, capable of remote access, credential theft, keylogging, and data exfiltration. The counterfeit site closely resembles the legitimate one, making it difficult for untrained users to distinguish between them. Users are advised to download antivirus software only from reputable sources and to verify the authenticity of the website before proceeding.

AppWizard

May 28, 2025

Google’s latest fraud advisory update keeps users keen on emerging threats

Google has released an updated fraud and scam advisory in anticipation of its inaugural Scams Summit, highlighting prevalent scam tactics such as customer support, package tracking, and toll road scams. The company has enhanced its Phone and Messages app with advanced scam protection features for Android users, integrating Gemini technology to detect and block potential scams. Google’s updated advisory also addresses risks from malvertising and counterfeit travel websites, while Chrome has received an update featuring AI-driven warnings for potential scams. Additionally, new scam protection features for calls and texts have been introduced, focusing on blocking actions when potential call scams are detected and identifying various scams related to toll roads, billing, cryptocurrency, and financial impersonation.

Tech Optimizer

May 14, 2025

Best Antivirus Software (2025): ESET Recognized as Top Cybersecurity Solution by Software Experts

ESET is recognized as a leading antivirus provider in 2025, known for its robust security solutions that effectively combat rising cyber threats such as phishing, ransomware, and zero-day exploits. The company's offerings include heuristic and behavioral detection, ransomware and phishing protection, exploit blocker technology, and low resource usage, ensuring minimal impact on system performance. ESET provides various products for home users, including ESET HOME Security Essential, Premium, and Ultimate, as well as a Small Business Security package for up to 25 devices and scalable solutions for larger organizations. Pricing for home products starts at .99/year, with multi-device and multi-year discounts available. ESET operates in over 200 countries, utilizing a global network for real-time threat intelligence and maintaining a commitment to effective digital security since its establishment in 1992.

AppWizard

May 14, 2025

Google Will Prevent Unknown App Downloads During Calls On Android 16

Google has introduced Advanced Protection for Android devices, aimed at enhancing security for users, especially those in public-facing roles. This feature was showcased on May 13, 2025, and will be released with Android 16 in June. Key functionalities include an Offline Device Key, Theft Detection, and Play Protect. Advanced Protection will restrict sideloading applications and downloading from third-party sources. It also blocks downloads from unknown sources during active phone calls and restricts access to banking applications during calls. Users will be unable to share screens with third-party applications while on calls. The initiative is currently being tested in various countries.

Tech Optimizer

April 23, 2025

Free webinar offers education on antivirus software and scams

AARP is hosting a financial security event on Wednesday afternoon from 1 to 2 p.m. to educate individuals on safeguarding their devices against digital threats. The webinar will cover antivirus software and malware, and is part of a series of financial security workshops. The Fraud Watch Network will provide insights on malware and strategies to eliminate viruses. Registration for the webinar is open.

Winsage

April 18, 2025

Microsoft makes Windows 11 24H2 more secure but not how you’d think

Microsoft is deprecating support for Virtualization-Based Security (VBS) enclaves in Windows 11 23H2 and earlier versions as it transitions users to Windows 11 24H2, which retains support for VBS enclaves. Windows 11 24H2 enhances security and is essential for developers to ensure their applications function correctly and securely. Windows 11 23H2 will reach the end of its support lifecycle on November 11, 2025, after which Microsoft will stop providing security updates. Users are encouraged to upgrade to Windows 11 24H2 to maintain access to security features and receive updates.

Tech Optimizer

April 15, 2025

Steps to Scan Your Computer for Free and Check for Viruses and Malware

Windows Security, previously known as Windows Defender, is a built-in security tool in Windows 10 and 11 that provides comprehensive protection against viruses and malware without requiring additional software. Users can perform manual scans, including Quick, Full, and Custom scans, to identify and eliminate threats. To run a scan, users must open Windows Security, navigate to "Virus & threat protection," and select the desired scan option. Windows Security also includes features such as real-time protection, firewall and network protection, app and browser control, device security, and account protection. It is essential to keep Windows Security updated with the latest virus definitions for optimal protection. Users can also schedule automatic scans for regular checks.