effectiveness Archives

AppWizard

May 14, 2025

Android launches new protections against phone call scammers

Google is implementing new features to enhance security for Android users against phone call scams. Users will be restricted from sideloading applications or granting sensitive permissions while on a call with an unknown contact, receiving a notification that states, “This setting is blocked to protect your device.” Google has also prevented users from disabling its Play Protect security service during calls. These measures are available for devices running Android 16. Additionally, Google is piloting a feature for banking apps in the UK that alerts users of a “likely scam” when accessing these apps while sharing their screen with an unknown caller. Users can choose to end the call or face a 30-second delay before accessing their banking app’s screen. This feature will roll out for devices running Android 11 and newer. These updates build on existing scam protection tools, including AI that identifies potential scam callers and integrates scam detection into Google Messages.

Winsage

May 13, 2025

Microsoft reveals its rejected Start menu redesigns

Microsoft is redesigning the Start menu in Windows 11, introducing a wider layout that allows users to disable the recommended feed of files and applications. The company shared five distinct concept designs for the menu, including features like a rounded menu with widget-like functionality, a side-separated "For You" section, a landing page design, and a full-screen vertical layout. The design team engaged with over 300 Windows 11 enthusiasts to refine their concepts through co-creation calls and user feedback. The new Start menu aims to enhance app visibility, increase customizability, and ensure speed while maintaining familiarity. It will also include a phone companion panel for quick access to calls, messages, and files. Microsoft plans to test the revamped Start menu with Windows Insiders soon, with a broader rollout expected in the coming months.

Tech Optimizer

May 13, 2025

If I would ever install an antivirus, this open-source tool would be my choice, and here is why

ClamAV is a free, open-source antivirus tool that allows public scrutiny of its code, ensuring security and integrity. It is compatible with multiple platforms, including Linux, Windows, and macOS, and is suitable for self-hosted servers and virtual machines. ClamAV includes features like SigTool for managing the virus signature database and ClamBC for advanced dynamic detection capabilities. It operates through a command-based interface, which may be intimidating for some users, and requires initial configuration. Despite its thorough scanning process, it may not perform as quickly as other antivirus solutions. ClamAV is recognized for its ability to identify a wide array of potential threats without financial investment.

AppWizard

May 13, 2025

Platkin joins letter pushing messaging app to stop fentanyl trafficking

New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin has joined a bipartisan coalition of attorneys general to address concerns regarding the encrypted messaging app WeChat, which is believed to facilitate fentanyl trafficking in the United States. This group claims that WeChat enables traffickers to launder money, particularly through transactions from China to Mexico. They have urged the app to take immediate action against these "dangerous and unlawful" activities. The attorneys general emphasize a pattern of complicity by WeChat in facilitating money laundering related to fentanyl trafficking, with a DEA agent stating that criminal activities are openly occurring on the platform.

AppWizard

May 12, 2025

6 PC gaming myths that sound right (but aren’t)

- Maxing out graphics settings to "Ultra" can lead to performance drops without significant visual improvements; "Very High" or "High" settings often provide a better balance of visuals and performance. - The effectiveness of ray tracing in games varies based on implementation; some games showcase its benefits while others do not. - Photorealism in graphics does not necessarily equate to immersion; true immersion relies on art style, narrative, gameplay, and performance. - Modern upscaling technologies like DLSS and FSR have improved to the point where the difference between upscaled and native resolution is often imperceptible to most gamers. - Frame generation can create visual artifacts and latency issues, particularly for budget GPUs, making it less effective at low framerates. - Recent advancements in GPUs have made high-quality gaming more accessible, challenging the belief that only high-end GPUs are needed for top-tier gaming experiences.

Winsage

May 12, 2025

Microsoft is now squeezing Copilot AI into its app store

Microsoft has integrated the Copilot AI assistant into the Microsoft Store, enhancing the shopping experience for apps and games. Users can access the Copilot feature via a dedicated button on product pages, which presents suggested queries related to the product. When a query is selected, users can interact with a chat interface to receive responses and ask additional questions. The responses are primarily based on information from the product listing page. This feature will be rolled out to all users in the coming weeks, and it cannot be disabled.

Winsage

May 12, 2025

End of 10 is a campaign to move people over to Linux with Windows 10 support ending

As Windows 10 approaches its end of life, users are considering alternatives like Linux due to stringent hardware requirements for Windows 11. The End of 10 campaign supports this transition by providing resources such as direct assistance, upcoming events for hands-on help, and step-by-step installation instructions for various Linux distributions. Advantages of switching to Linux include cost-effectiveness, an ad-free experience, and enhanced customization. The recent release of Fedora 42 with KDE Plasma as the flagship edition offers a familiar interface for users transitioning from Windows.

Winsage

May 11, 2025

5 reasons I use File Pilot to manage my files on Windows

Microsoft's File Explorer for Windows 11 is considered adequate but lacks certain features, leading users to seek alternatives like File Pilot, which is currently in beta and expected to have a paid release later this year. File Pilot allows users to adjust file views with a slider for seamless transitions and enhances usability by enabling real-time customization. It offers advanced file preview capabilities, particularly for images and TXT files, and features a command bar for quick navigation and access to various functions. The split view feature allows users to create multiple customizable panels for better organization. File Pilot is lightweight, with a download size of 1.8MB, and provides rapid performance, making it effective for managing large sets of files.

AppWizard

May 9, 2025

Gemini fuels Chrome for Android with enhanced scam and spam protection

Google has announced a new security feature for Chrome on Android that uses machine learning through its Gemini intelligence to alert users about potential scams, spam, and unwanted notifications from malicious websites. This update allows Chrome to analyze website notifications more effectively, enhancing user protection. In September, Google also updated Chrome's Safety Check for Android, which now includes improved background tasks, notification alerts, and scans for security risks in passwords and installed extensions. The machine learning model was trained using synthetic data evaluated against real notifications to ensure effectiveness. The enhancements aim to provide a stronger defense against online threats.

Tech Optimizer

May 8, 2025

This Is a Mac-Only Antivirus Software, And It Is Your Ultimate Shield Against Hackers (Now 60% Off)

Cyberattacks are increasingly common due to psychological warfare among global powers. Macs are vulnerable to these attacks, necessitating effective antivirus solutions. Intego is the only antivirus software developed specifically for macOS, offering two packages: Mac Internet Security and Mac Premium Bundle. The Mac Internet Security suite includes real-time antivirus protection, a customizable firewall, and anti-phishing features, priced at .99 for one Mac or .99 for three Macs during the first year. The Mac Premium Bundle adds features like system cleanup, parental management, and automated backups, starting at .99 for one Mac or .99 for three Macs in the first year. Intego is designed specifically for Apple computers, providing lightweight, effective protection with minimal impact on system performance. It has a perfect malware detection score and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. Users can also add a VPN subscription as Intego is associated with CyberGhost and ExpressVPN.