disguise

Winsage
December 3, 2025
Microsoft has addressed a long-standing security vulnerability, identified as CVE-2025-9491, which has been exploited since 2017. This vulnerability involves a misinterpretation issue within Windows Shortcut (LNK) files, potentially allowing remote code execution. The flaw was highlighted in the November 2025 Patch Tuesday updates, with a CVSS score of 7.8/7.0. It allows crafted .LNK files to obscure harmful content, making it invisible to users, thus enabling attackers to execute code under the current user's context. The vulnerability was exploited by various state-sponsored groups, including those from China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia, for data theft and espionage. Microsoft initially deemed the flaw not warranting immediate attention, citing user interaction requirements and existing system warnings. Subsequent investigations revealed its exploitation by cyber espionage groups, including XDSpy and China-affiliated actors targeting European entities. The recent patch aims to ensure that the entire Target command is displayed in the Properties dialog, while 0patch provides warnings for LNK files exceeding 260 characters.
AppWizard
November 27, 2025
Shueisha Games has announced the casual non-verbal social deduction action game VIVA NOBOTS, set to launch on PC via Steam in spring 2026, supporting English and Japanese languages. An open beta playtest will take place from December 12 to 18. In VIVA NOBOTS, players act as humans disguised as excavation robots to infiltrate ancient ruins and collect treasures while avoiding detection. Key features include stealing treasures, exposing rival players using the Doubt Gun, and escaping after securing loot. A new humanoid security bot called the "Android" has been introduced, along with a mega-jackpot feature called "GODPOT." Future updates will include cooperative and VS modes and avatar type changes. Trailers and gameplay highlights are available in both English and Japanese.
AppWizard
November 26, 2025
Android users are facing a threat from counterfeit VPN applications that disguise themselves as privacy-enhancing tools but contain malware capable of compromising personal information and security. These fake VPNs mimic reputable brands and use misleading advertisements to appear legitimate. Once installed, they can steal passwords, messages, and financial data, and may even lock devices with ransomware. Google advises users to download VPNs only from trusted sources, look for verification badges, review app permissions, be cautious of free offers, research developers, and avoid scare tactics in marketing. Legitimate VPNs should not request access to personal contacts or photos and should only require network-related permissions.
AppWizard
November 8, 2025
Minecraft serves as a therapeutic escape for many players, offering stress relief through its block-based universe. The game combines structure and freedom, allowing players to engage creatively without the pressure of quick reflexes or constant victories. It facilitates a flow state, where players become fully absorbed in building, providing immediate feedback and a sense of progress. The simplicity of the game encourages personal expression, and the repetitive tasks within it offer comfort and a sense of control. Additionally, the social aspects of Minecraft foster community and collaboration, enhancing the therapeutic experience. Therapists and educators are increasingly incorporating Minecraft into stress management and educational settings, highlighting its potential for promoting mindfulness and connection.
Tech Optimizer
November 7, 2025
A new Android banking Trojan named Herodotus has emerged, operating under the Malware-as-a-Service (MaaS) model and causing significant disruptions in the mobile banking sector. It primarily spreads through SMS phishing campaigns that disguise malicious links as legitimate messages, leading users to counterfeit web pages to download an APK file outside the official Play Store. Upon installation, Herodotus requests critical permissions, including Accessibility, allowing it to overlay fake screens on real banking apps and capture user data. The malware employs deceptive behaviors to evade detection by traditional antivirus solutions, which often fail to recognize it due to their reliance on signature-based and behavior-driven databases. Research indicates that antivirus providers have overlooked the Herodotus threat, highlighting the need for multilayered defense mechanisms. Pradeo’s Mobile Threat Defense (MTD) solution offers continuous monitoring of device behavior, proactive blocking of phishing links, and alerts for risky off-store installations, effectively neutralizing threats before they escalate.
TrendTechie
November 3, 2025
The volume of pirated video content in Russia decreased by over 14% in the first half of 2025, with a reported decline to approximately 0.6 million instances. The amount of blocked pirated content surged by 42% in 2024, reaching 12.5 million instances, and the number of blocked pirate domains rose to 110,000. Russia is the third-largest consumer of pirated content globally, following the United States and India. The peak of Russian online piracy occurred between 2015 and 2018. Torrents are becoming obsolete, particularly among younger generations, who prefer legal access to content. Users face risks from hackers when visiting sites offering free content, with warnings about potential viruses and data theft.
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