individuals Archives

AppWizard

September 25, 2026

Google Maps is failing to complete basic searches for some users

Users are experiencing a glitch with the search functionality in the browser version of Google Maps, where searching for general terms like "restaurants" results in an error message suggesting a misspelling or incomplete query. Specific location searches work normally, but general searches yield a message stating, “Google Maps can’t find restaurants,” prompting users to check spelling or provide additional location details. This issue appears to be limited to the browser version, with no problems reported on the mobile app. Some users have found that searching in incognito mode may resolve the issue, though this workaround is not universally effective. The glitch affects multiple browsers, not just Chrome. Android Authority has contacted Google for clarification on the matter.

AppWizard

September 25, 2026

Forget new models — Gemini’s working on what really matters: dark mode options

The Gemini app for Android is introducing new features aimed at enhancing user experience. Upcoming updates include innovative dark mode controls that allow users to override their device's system settings, enabling them to choose their preferred mode specifically for Gemini. This feature will be exclusive to the Gemini app and will not affect other Google applications. Additionally, a notification history feature will be added, allowing users to archive and review past notifications via a bell icon in the app. Users will also be able to long-press notifications to open or remove them. These developments are part of version 17.61.19.sa.arm64 of the Google app for Android, although not all features may make it to the final version.

AppWizard

September 24, 2026

Russia’s state-backed messaging app Max can secretly change how it surveils individual users, researchers at InterSecLab find

The Max messenger, developed by VK, has significant user tracking capabilities. A report from InterSecLab revealed that: - Max's features can vary for individual users without app updates. - It lacks end-to-end encryption, allowing VK access to messages, even in "secret chats." - Each account can be configured to perform specific actions, such as decrypting messages on VK's servers and blocking messages if a VPN is detected. - Upon launching, Max reports the user’s network environment to VK, including their public IP address and mobile carrier. - The app uploads users’ entire address books unencrypted to VK's servers, accessing contacts of non-registered individuals. - A phone number query can reveal extensive user information without notification. - Max stops functioning if it detects a VPN, requiring users to disable it to send messages, although workarounds exist. - New users receive a curated list of recommended channels, primarily featuring state media and pro-government figures.

AppWizard

September 24, 2026

How I found tinnitus relief with free Android apps – and finally got some sleep

Two Android applications have been identified as helpful for tinnitus relief: one focuses on tonal therapy and the other on ambient sound generation. Both apps are free, with optional premium features. Tonal therapy involves using tailored sound frequencies to disrupt abnormal neural activity associated with tinnitus. Users must identify the pitch of their tinnitus, generate therapy tones, and play them in a staggered sequence. The Tonal Tinnitus Therapy app requires consistent use, with many users reporting significant symptom reduction over time. It offers a free version and a one-time purchase option for unlimited access. Recommended usage includes listening for at least four hours daily, starting with short sessions. The ambient noise generator app, such as Ambience: Sleep Sounds, creates soothing backgrounds to mask tinnitus sounds. It offers a variety of calming sounds and has both free and premium versions. Users can create personalized sound mixes to aid sleep, and reliance on the ambient generator may decrease as tonal therapy takes effect.

Winsage

September 24, 2026

Windows 11 Pro is now only $10

Windows 11 Pro includes advanced features such as BitLocker for full disk encryption, Hyper-V and Windows Sandbox for running virtual machines, and integration with Azure Active Directory for business connectivity. It also offers Snap layouts for multitasking, DirectX 12 Ultimate for gaming, biometric login options with TPM 2.0 for enhanced security, and a Copilot feature for productivity assistance. A lifetime license for Windows 11 Pro is available for .97 until October 4.

Winsage

September 23, 2026

New Windows Defender zero-day blocks Microsoft antivirus updates

Security researcher Abdelhamid Naceri, known as Nightmare Eclipse, released a zero-day exploit called BigDiskBuster that targets Microsoft Defender, preventing antivirus updates and leaving systems vulnerable. BigDiskBuster operates across all supported Windows versions and must run in the background to block updates. Naceri has previously released a similar exploit called UnDefend and has a history of releasing multiple zero-day exploits since April 2026 amid a dispute with Microsoft. Two weeks before BigDiskBuster, he introduced another exploit named ShieldCrash, which grants SYSTEM access and circumvents a patched flaw. Naceri's recent exploits include tools like LegacyHive, BlueHammer, RedSun, YellowKey, GreenPlasma, and MiniPlasma, all targeting Microsoft Defender and other Windows components. Microsoft has warned of potential legal action against malicious activities but has not commented on BigDiskBuster.

Winsage

September 21, 2026

Pay just $17 and keep Microsoft Office 2019 on your PC

Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 is available for .97, down from its regular price of 9. This offer is valid until September 27 and provides a lifetime license for one Windows PC, with no recurring fees. The suite includes applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, and Access, and features enhanced inking capabilities, new analytical tools in Excel, upgraded PowerPoint features, and improved Outlook functionalities. Users receive an immediate email with the download link and license key, which must be redeemed within seven days. The offer supports all languages and includes updates for the 2019 version.

Tech Optimizer

September 21, 2026

Fake LastPass Authenticator Installer Abuses Microsoft-Signed Driver to Kill Antivirus and EDR

On September 17, researchers from LastPass and Delphos Labs discovered a counterfeit LastPass Authenticator installer on GitHub that installs a malicious Windows kernel driver designed to disable antivirus and steal passwords. The driver, named Alinubx.sys, was signed through Microsoft's hardware compatibility program and initially scored zero detections on VirusTotal. The fake installer is hosted on a fraudulent GitHub page that mimics a legitimate LastPass product page. When executed, the installer uses DLL side-loading to gain SYSTEM-level access and terminates security processes, allowing it to harvest saved passwords from various browsers and applications. The driver is a renamed variant of a known malicious driver, evading detection due to its new file hash. Delphos reported the driver to Microsoft, but it was not considered a security vulnerability. Users who executed the fake installer should treat their passwords and sensitive data as compromised and change them from a secure device. The malicious server has been linked to impersonation pages for multiple brands, and the loader was likely created using a specific crypter tool.

AppWizard

September 21, 2026

Ahead of GTA 6’s Release, Rockstar Updates Modding Guidelines Touching on Monetization, Multiplayer

Take-Two Interactive has not confirmed the release date for Grand Theft Auto 6 on PC, but the game is anticipated to launch in November. Rockstar Games has updated its modding guidelines for GTA 6, which include prohibitions on altering storylines, combining elements from different titles, and unauthorized monetization of mods. The guidelines emphasize respect for Rockstar's intellectual property and the creator community, and they state that monetization is only allowed through approved digital storefronts. The game is set to launch on November 19 for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S, with the PC version's release date still unannounced. Additionally, Rockstar will release "Grand Theft Auto 6: The Album," featuring 34 original tracks from contemporary artists.

AppWizard

September 21, 2026

PH messaging app use surges

The Messaging Trends Report 2026 indicates a 19 percent increase in messaging activity in the Philippines for 2025, with mobile messaging applications experiencing a 139 percent rise in interactions. The report analyzed 628 billion mobile interactions on Infobip’s platform and included a 20-year review of 3.8 trillion messages. Viber interactions grew by 47 percent, WhatsApp by 1,416 percent, SMS by 14 percent, MMS by 15 percent, and email by 5 percent. Other chat applications saw a 1,014 percent increase in user engagement.