discussion Archives

Winsage

March 30, 2025

5 nostalgic Windows programs I wish were still around

Windows Live Movie Maker was a free video editor that allowed users to create and edit videos without ads or upsells, contrasting with today's monetized tools. Rockmelt was a Chromium-based web browser from the early 2010s that integrated Facebook into the browsing experience with real-time notifications and built-in Messenger functionality. Windows Media Center was a media management interface in Windows Vista and 7 that had potential for growth with the rise of Home Theater PCs and streaming services. Iconic games from Windows XP, such as 3D Pinball: Space Cadet and Minesweeper, created lasting memories for users. Windows Live Messenger was a messaging service known for its user-friendly interface and features like tabbed conversations and customizable emoticons, which many users miss compared to newer platforms like Skype and Teams.

Winsage

March 29, 2025

Windows Central Podcast: Nobody wants the Surface Laptop 7?

The Windows Central Podcast discusses the current state of Windows on Arm, the high return rate of the Surface Laptop 7, and upcoming smaller Surface Pro and Surface Laptop models with innovative features. It also covers developments in Windows 11, including the first signs of the 25H2 update.

AppWizard

March 29, 2025

Signal controversy: Why the secure messaging app is all over the news

Signal is an end-to-end encrypted messaging application that distinguishes itself from competitors like Messenger and WhatsApp through its open-source technology and the use of the Signal protocol for encryption. It encrypts messages before they leave the sender's device, ensuring that only the intended recipient can read them. However, its security is tied to the user's device, and vulnerabilities such as weak passwords and unprotected devices can compromise message integrity. Despite its strong encryption, Signal may not meet the stringent security protocols required for sensitive government communications, particularly due to its message deletion feature and the lack of support for record-keeping. The app is considered secure for everyday users, but may not be suitable for high-stakes governmental communication. The rise in cyber threats underscores the need for secure communication channels, leading organizations to consider encrypted messaging solutions like Signal, while also evaluating alternatives within the encrypted messaging landscape.

AppWizard

March 27, 2025

Daily Update: AEW-Minecraft, Adam Copeland, Maria Kanellis

The latest issue of the Wrestling Observer includes updates on the John Cena/Cody Rhodes interview and WrestleMania plans, WBD's interest in UFC, a recap of the New Japan Cup, the announcement of the 2024 Gaspard/Huber award winners, ratings analysis, insights into CMLL’s upcoming event, a report on AAA champion's suspension, details on a WWE superstar's drug test failure, retirement notes regarding Homicide, updates on El Hijo del Santo’s retirement tour, news from Border City Wrestling, Mandy Rose's business aspirations, updates on AEW Dynasty, a lawsuit involving Ryan Nemeth against AEW, WWE's strategies against AEW, Lex Luger's Hall of Fame candidacy, evaluations of Dwayne Johnson’s ownership stake in TKO, Vince McMahon’s ownership valuation, injury updates, and developmental news. AEW's Dynamite will feature "A Minecraft Movie" as the presenting sponsor, with promotional content produced with The Outrunners. Adam Copeland expressed no regrets about joining AEW and emphasized his focus on the company's needs. Saraya discussed her departure from AEW on Busted Open Radio. Matt Hardy highlighted the importance of mentoring young talent. Maria Kanellis-Bennett announced a recent medical procedure. Tom Pestock has joined Busted Open Radio as a host. Cedric Alexander will appear on Insight with Chris Van Vliet. Ultimo Guerrero will participate in MLW Battle Riot VII on April 5. House of Glory is expanding its wrestling academy with a new training school in Orlando, Florida, opening in May.

AppWizard

March 26, 2025

Here’s why CD Projekt isn’t using gen AI for Witcher 4

CD Projekt has decided not to integrate generative AI into The Witcher 4 or any upcoming projects due to concerns over intellectual property rights and the complexities of the technology. Joint CEO Michał Nowakowski stated that generative AI poses challenges regarding originality and trademark issues. However, the company is exploring other AI solutions for future products and has established a dedicated team for this purpose, focusing on customized AI models rather than generative AI.

AppWizard

March 26, 2025

The Atlantic Publishes Attack Plans That Pete Hegseth Shared On Signal Messaging App

The Atlantic reported on U.S. military strategy discussions involving Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and senior Trump administration officials, which were inadvertently shared with the magazine's editor, Jeffrey Goldberg. The conversations focused on military strikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen. Goldberg initially withheld specific details from the messages to protect U.S. personnel's safety. Following the publication, Trump administration officials claimed the exchanged information was not classified and attempted to discredit Goldberg. Hegseth asserted that the group was not discussing war plans. Despite the administration's stance, Goldberg and journalist Shane Harris argued for transparency regarding the texts, emphasizing the risks associated with sharing sensitive information through nonsecure channels. The texts revealed operational details, including timing and targeting of strikes, with a message sent just before U.S. warplanes were deployed. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reiterated that no classified information was shared but objected to the publication, framing it as an internal discussion. She differentiated between "war plans" and "attack plans," a distinction that created confusion.

Tech Optimizer

March 26, 2025

Video: Why didn’t CCI see Microsoft Defender as anti competitive?

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) ruled that Microsoft's integration of its antivirus software, Microsoft Defender, with the Windows operating system does not pose a significant threat to market competition. A complaint claimed that this practice gave Microsoft an unfair advantage and hindered third-party antivirus developers. Microsoft defended its actions as standard industry practice, stating that users can still choose to install alternative antivirus solutions.

Winsage

March 26, 2025

New Windows Zero-Day Vulnerability Exposes NTLM Credentials – Unofficial Patch Now Available

A zero-day vulnerability has been identified in the Windows operating system, affecting versions from Windows 7 and Server 2008 R2 to Windows 11 v24H2 and Server 2025. This vulnerability allows attackers to obtain NTLM credentials by tricking users into opening malicious files in Windows Explorer. Microsoft has been notified, and while there is no official CVE number yet, an unofficial patch is available through 0patch. The flaw is similar to previous vulnerabilities related to NTLM hash disclosures but has not been widely discussed. To exploit it, attackers need network access to the victim's system or a way to relay stolen credentials. 0patch has created micropatches for all affected Windows versions, which are available for free until Microsoft provides an official fix. This is the fourth zero-day vulnerability reported by 0patch recently, with previous vulnerabilities including those in Windows Theme files and the Mark of the Web issue on Server 2012. 0patch also offers patches for NTLM-related vulnerabilities that Microsoft has classified as “wont fix.” Users can create a free account with 0patch for automatic protection against these vulnerabilities. Micropatches are available for various Windows versions, including both legacy and currently supported systems, and will remain free until an official Microsoft fix is released.

AppWizard

March 25, 2025

What to know about Signal, the app used by Trump officials to text war plans

An encrypted messaging app named Signal has been used by high-ranking officials from the Trump administration, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Vice President JD Vance, to discuss a sensitive military operation. This conversation included Jeffrey Goldberg, editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, who reported on the incident. The National Security Council confirmed the authenticity of the messages. Signal, which has around 70 million users, offers end-to-end encryption and is operated by the nonprofit Signal Foundation. Despite its security features, experts warn that it is not immune to hacking, as highlighted by a National Security Agency bulletin in February 2025 regarding vulnerabilities within the app. Government officials have used Signal for sensitive communications, but there are potential legal implications for sharing classified information on nonsecure platforms, which could violate the Espionage Act. Some messages in a group chat were set to disappear after one to four weeks, raising concerns about federal record preservation laws.

AppWizard

March 25, 2025

Why does this administration use the Signal messaging app to discuss war plans?

Jeffrey Goldberg, editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, was inadvertently included in a Signal group chat involving senior U.S. government officials discussing military action against Houthi targets in Yemen. This incident raised questions about national security communication protocols, particularly regarding the use of the Signal app for sensitive discussions that should occur on secure government devices. A Pentagon advisory warned against using Signal due to vulnerabilities that could be exploited by foreign hacking groups. Concerns were voiced by figures like Senator Elizabeth Warren about the legality and safety of using such apps for national security matters.