guidelines Archives

Winsage

November 3, 2024

Is It Goodbye to Copilot? Introducing Windows Intelligence!

Microsoft is launching a new AI initiative called "Windows Intelligence" to unify its AI features within Windows 11. Recent updates to the Windows 11 codebase suggest that the existing AI feature, Copilot, along with other tools, will be integrated into this new framework. The branding of "Windows Intelligence" is similar to Apple's AI branding, indicating a competitive stance against Apple. Copilot will not be phased out but will receive enhancements, including a new interface and tailored recommendations. Other tools like Click to Do and Recall will also evolve under this initiative. The goal is to enhance user interaction and create a more intuitive experience within the Windows ecosystem.

AppWizard

October 31, 2024

New Android Spyware Warning—Do Not Install These Apps

Android users are being warned about a new variant of the FakeCall malware, which can intercept calls, live-stream device screens, and manipulate text messages and camera functions. This updated spyware prompts users to set it as the default call handler, granting it control over all calls. Users are advised not to designate unfamiliar apps as default call handlers, avoid sideloading apps, and ensure Play Protect is activated. The FakeCall app can redirect users to malicious lines that mimic legitimate banking interfaces, risking unauthorized access to sensitive information. Google is enhancing Play Protect to monitor apps from outside the Play Store and plans to introduce live threat detection in the upcoming Android 15 update. Zimperium offers resources to help identify FakeCall apps and encourages users to check their default call handler settings and permissions.

Winsage

October 30, 2024

Unofficial fixes issued for Windows Themes zero-day

CyberRisk Alliance, LLC emphasizes the importance of copyright laws in protecting intellectual property, stating that their materials cannot be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without prior authorization. Additionally, by using their website, users agree to their Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, which informs them about data handling practices.

Winsage

October 28, 2024

“We automated 150 tasks with AI agents, just copy us”: Microsoft’s Windows Agent Arena brings AI assistants keyboard-deep to Windows PCs but there are critical security and performance concerns

Microsoft introduced Windows Agent Arena, a benchmark for testing AI agents in realistic Windows environments. Multi-modal AI agents currently have a performance success rate of 19.5%, compared to the average human performance rating of 74.5%. The benchmark includes over 150 diverse Windows tasks and allows for evaluations in Azure, potentially completing assessments in 20 minutes. Microsoft Research developed a multi-modal agent named Navi, which demonstrated a 19.5% success rate in tasks like converting a website to a PDF. Privacy and security concerns are highlighted, with Microsoft recalling the Windows Recall feature to enhance user security. The open-source framework promotes research and the development of reliable AI models, with an emphasis on responsible AI practices. Other companies, like Anthropic, are also advancing AI capabilities, exemplified by their new API "Computer Use" for human-like interactions with computers.

AppWizard

October 27, 2024

Samsung’s Health App For Android Gets An Upgrade, You Can Now Track Your Medication On Smartphone

Samsung has upgraded its Health app for Android, allowing users to access medical history, manage medications, and track food intake. The update is designed for Indian consumers, enabling users to input medication names and receive detailed information, including side effects and safety guidelines, as well as alerts for harmful interactions. The app also includes personalized reminders for medication intake and refills, which can be received on a Galaxy Watch. Additional features include sleep tracking, mindfulness exercises, and alerts for irregular heart rhythms. The medication tracking feature will be rolled out in India through app updates, with information provided by Tata 1mg. Users are advised to update their Samsung Health app to access the new feature.

AppWizard

October 26, 2024

WeChat among apps banned from Hong Kong govt computers

Hong Kong's government has updated its information security guidelines to enhance cybersecurity, restricting the use of messaging and cloud storage applications like WeChat, WhatsApp, and Google Drive on government-operated computers. The Digital Policy Office cited concerns over end-to-end encryption technology in these services that could bypass cybersecurity defenses, making it challenging to detect and respond to threats. The new regulations, inspired by measures in the U.S. and mainland China, will take effect at the end of October, with potential exceptions approved by department heads. Additionally, a new cybersecurity law is expected to be introduced by the end of the year to address critical infrastructure security.

Winsage

October 25, 2024

Update Windows by October 29 to avoid risk

Microsoft has issued an advisory for a critical vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-43573, affecting over 240 million users, primarily targeting Windows 10 and Windows 11. Users are urged to update their systems by October 29, 2024, to avoid significant security threats. The vulnerability is linked to MSHTML, a component of Internet Explorer, and has been associated with infostealer attacks. The U.S. government recommends federal employees prioritize these updates. Trend Micro indicates that this vulnerability shares characteristics with previously patched issues, necessitating the application of the latest Patch Tuesday updates. Users on older Windows systems are advised to upgrade, as Microsoft will discontinue support for Windows 10 in October 2025.

AppWizard

October 20, 2024

Minecraft: Best Y Level for Iron – 9meters

Iron is essential for crafting tools, armor, and various items in Minecraft. The ideal Y level for mining iron in Minecraft 1.20 is 16, where ore distribution is most favorable. Iron ore can be found at Y levels ranging from -24 to 256, with three primary zones of prevalence: -24 to 56, 0 to 128, and 80 to 256. For effective mining, focus on Y level 16 or Y level 232 in mountainous regions. Iron ore generation is very high at Y=16 and high at Y=232. Other Y levels have moderate to low iron availability. The 1.18 update introduced a triangular distribution for iron ore, making it more abundant in mid-range levels, particularly around Y 16. Mining techniques include strip mining at Y=16, cave exploration, and branch mining. Using a Fortune-enchanted pickaxe increases iron yield. Iron can be used to craft tools, armor, weapons, gadgets, and building materials. Iron farms can be constructed to spawn iron golems for automated collection of iron.

AppWizard

October 18, 2024

Google is pushing more Android apps to use the new photo picker

Google has introduced a new photo picker feature in Android 13 that allows apps to access only selected photos and videos, enhancing user privacy. Adoption of this feature has been slower than expected, prompting Google to enforce stricter regulations on apps using READMEDIAIMAGES and READMEDIAVIDEO permissions without justification. Developers must submit a declaration form to justify their need for broader access, with full implementation of this policy expected by January next year. Applications that do not require extensive access will be scrutinized, while those demonstrating legitimate needs may retain permissions. Non-compliant apps will face restrictions, including the inability to publish updates on the Google Play Store.

AppWizard

October 18, 2024

Android phones are about to get a big security upgrade to protect your photos

Google Play is enhancing user privacy with the introduction of the Photo Picker API, which debuted with Android 13. This feature allows users to selectively share images with applications instead of granting full access to their photo and video libraries. Google plans to enforce stricter guidelines for developers to ensure that only apps that genuinely need full gallery access can obtain it. The Photo Picker API currently lacks a search function and does not display local albums, making it challenging to locate older images. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the Pixel 9 transmitting data to Google without explicit user consent, including location and network status updates every 15 minutes. Google has stated that user security and privacy are top priorities for Pixel.