Enhanced privacy

Winsage
July 27, 2025
Microsoft introduced the Recall feature in Windows 11 about a year ago, which was intended to record and remember users' activities. The feature faced significant backlash over privacy concerns, leading to its retraction. Users were uncomfortable with the idea of Microsoft recording their actions, despite assurances that data processing would occur locally. The launch of Windows 10 in 2015 also faced criticism due to telemetry, which is the collection of anonymized data for monitoring software performance. This led to perceptions of surveillance and privacy infringement, prompting Microsoft to implement new privacy controls. By 2017, increased transparency and enhanced privacy features improved user reception. Despite the backlash, telemetry remains a standard practice in software development, and Microsoft has become more aware of privacy concerns, influencing user vigilance regarding data. As Windows 10 approaches its tenth anniversary on July 29, 2025, it highlights the heightened awareness of software privacy among users.
Tech Optimizer
July 26, 2025
Cyber threats targeting smartphones have evolved to include sophisticated malware and ransomware, with Android being particularly vulnerable to cyberattacks compared to iOS. Google recommends downloading apps only from the official Play Store, but some malicious applications can bypass these security measures. To protect Android devices from malware, investing in a reliable antivirus app is essential. Bitdefender Mobile Security is currently the top-rated Android antivirus app with a 4.7-star rating on Google Play, offering features like real-time web protection and app scanning. A free version is available, but a subscription is required for enhanced features. Sophos Intercept X for Mobile is a commendable free option with a 3.9-star rating, providing threat scanning and app protection. Other notable antivirus apps include Avast Security and Virus Cleaner, which has a 4.6-star rating and features a web shield and junk removal, and Malwarebytes Mobile Security, also rated 4.6 stars, known for its quick scans and digital footprint service. Norton360, with a 4.6-star rating, offers a comprehensive suite of features including antivirus scanning and a VPN. The best Android antivirus apps of 2025 include: - Bitdefender Mobile Security: Free, per year, 4.7 stars, 448K reviews - Sophos Intercept X: Free, 4.1 stars, 47.1K reviews - Avast: Ad-supported free, 4.6 stars, 7.34M reviews - Malwarebytes: Free, per year, 4.6 stars, 423K reviews - Norton360: Paid plans, 4.6 stars, 1.92M reviews The mobile malware landscape has reportedly increased by 151% since the beginning of 2025, with Google taking legal action against the BadBox 2.0 botnet targeting IoT devices, including Android. A new malware variant named ClickFix is also emerging, affecting macOS, Android, and iOS platforms. Relying solely on built-in protection and the Google Play Store is not advisable; a reputable antivirus app is recommended for additional security.
AppWizard
July 22, 2025
Researchers have identified a new spyware campaign targeting Iranian users of Android VPN applications, specifically a revamped version of DCHSpy, which disguises itself as legitimate VPN services like Starlink. This campaign began shortly after the Israel-Iran conflict and coincided with increased VPN usage among Iranians facing internet restrictions. DCHSpy can collect sensitive user data, including WhatsApp messages, contacts, SMS, files, location information, call logs, and has the ability to record audio and capture images. The spyware is maintained by the hacking group MuddyWater, linked to Iran's Ministry of Intelligence and Security, and has been enhanced with new functionalities. Malicious VPN services EarthVPN and ComodoVPN are being used to spread the malware, following the previous use of HideVPN. Experts warn that hackers are distributing malicious APKs through trusted platforms like Telegram, increasing risks for Iranian citizens. Security analyst Azam Jangrevi advises caution when downloading apps, recommending verified app stores and mobile security solutions to detect threats like DCHSpy. For high-risk professionals, she suggests using hardware-based security keys and vetted encrypted messaging applications.
Winsage
July 22, 2025
Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, affecting over 200 million devices. A student developer, TechnoPorg, has created a free migration tool called Operese to facilitate the transition from Windows 10 to Linux. Operese translates a Windows 10 installation into a Linux setup, preserving data, settings, and applications as much as possible. It uses a customized version of Kubuntu to provide a user-friendly experience. While the tool is still in development and may not support all applications, it aims to offer a smooth migration process. Linux distributions, such as Kubuntu, are compatible with older hardware and provide enhanced privacy and security compared to Windows. TechnoPorg plans to open-source Operese once it is more stable and documented.
Winsage
July 15, 2025
Microsoft is introducing a new AI action within its Click To Do feature on Windows 11, allowing users to receive descriptions of images on their screens using on-device AI. This feature is available exclusively for Copilot+ PCs and can be accessed by holding down the Windows key and clicking the mouse. The describe image function operates offline, enhancing user privacy by generating descriptions locally without an internet connection. Click To Do also offers various functions, including text analysis and image identification. The describe image feature is currently available through the Windows 11 Insider Program for users in the Beta and Dev Channels, with a broader rollout expected later this year for Copilot+ PCs with Snapdragon processors, while Intel and AMD chip users will gain access in the coming weeks.
AppWizard
July 7, 2025
Jack Dorsey introduced a test version of a decentralized messaging application called Bitchat, designed for private conversations through end-to-end encryption. The app enables ephemeral, encrypted communication without relying on internet infrastructure, making it resilient to network outages and censorship. Bitchat operates using Bluetooth to facilitate communication within a range of approximately 300 meters and does not require users to provide phone numbers or email addresses. Instead, users create their own handles for identification. The app automatically detects nearby users, allowing them to connect through chatrooms. Bitchat is intended for use in scenarios lacking internet access, such as concerts, airplanes, or during disaster response efforts.
AppWizard
June 26, 2025
Sends Messenger has gained popularity as a leading chat application in India, experiencing a significant increase in downloads due to its focus on secure messaging. The app prioritizes privacy with features such as end-to-end encryption, user anonymity, and a no data-sharing policy. It offers a user-friendly interface with advanced security options, including self-destructing messages and private group chats. The development team is working on adding payment solutions within the app for seamless money transactions. The app's growth is fueled by rising awareness of digital privacy and the demand for secure, feature-rich platforms in India's large market of over 800 million smartphone users. Sends Messenger is available for download on the App Store and Google Play.
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