information Archives

AppWizard

July 16, 2026

Grand Theft Auto 6 leaker who was given an indefinite sentence in 2023 because he wouldn’t stop hacking is now out of hospital and awaiting retrial

Arion Kurtaj, previously involved in high-profile cyberattacks as part of the hacking group Lapsus$, has been transferred from a secure hospital facility to a standard prison while awaiting retrial. At 18, he was found liable by a UK court for cyber intrusions targeting major corporations, notably leaking 90 videos of Grand Theft Auto 6 in 2022. Initially held under police protection with limited technology access, he was sentenced to a secure hospital pending a medical assessment. This assessment has concluded, allowing his transfer to prison. Kurtaj's retrial is scheduled for November, coinciding with the launch of Grand Theft Auto 6.

Winsage

July 16, 2026

Windows Netlogon Flaw CVE-2026-41089: CVSS 9.8 [2026]

CVE-2026-41089 is a critical vulnerability in the Windows Netlogon service, rated 9.8 on the CVSS scale, allowing unauthenticated attackers to execute arbitrary code with SYSTEM-level privileges on domain controllers. It affects all supported versions of Windows Server configured as domain controllers, from Windows Server 2012 R2 to the latest release. Microsoft addressed this vulnerability on May 12, 2026, during a broader update that included 138 fixes, but it went largely unnoticed until early June when active exploitation was confirmed. The vulnerability is characterized as a stack-based buffer overflow and is considered "wormable" due to its ability to self-propagate across systems without user intervention. Organizations are advised to patch all domain controllers and audit network access to mitigate exposure.

Winsage

July 16, 2026

This surprisingly useful Windows 11 tool helps me block distractions

Microsoft's Focus Mode, integrated into Windows 11, includes features like Do Not Disturb and Focus Sessions, which help users maintain concentration by silencing notifications and providing a countdown timer for focused work periods. The Focus Sessions feature is located in the Clock app and allows users to customize session durations and breaks, effectively replacing traditional productivity tools like Pomodoro timers and sticky notes. It integrates with Microsoft To Do and can automatically launch Spotify during focus sessions. The app tracks daily progress and stores data locally for privacy, deleting it every 90 days. Customization options are available for alert tones and app theming, though some settings are located in separate menus. The app operates without elevated permissions and does not include distraction-blocking features.

AppWizard

July 16, 2026

Amnesia: What If a Messenger Was Designed to Forget?

In digital communication, traditional messaging platforms act as persistent archives of user data, including accounts, devices, contacts, and interactions, which can hinder the essence of communication. While end-to-end encryption enhances privacy, it does not eliminate data retention. Amnesia is a concept that proposes a messaging platform emphasizing temporary communication with no permanent accounts or conversation histories. The initial prototype allows users to create one-time sessions using QR codes, ensuring that all data is destroyed once the session ends. Each session generates unique identity keys, preventing credential reuse and session token theft. The system does not retain any conversation history, reinforcing the principle that once a session is terminated, the data is irretrievable. Amnesia's relay facilitates communication without retaining user accounts or histories, and its design minimizes durable information to reduce risks. The project is currently an architectural concept and an early prototype, not ready for production or sensitive communications.

AppWizard

July 16, 2026

Russia’s Max Messenger Removed From Google Play

Max, a messaging application launched by VK in 2025 and endorsed by Russian President Vladimir Putin, was removed from Google’s Play marketplace on July 16, 2023. The app does not provide end-to-end encryption, raising concerns about government access to user communications. This removal is part of a trend affecting other VK-owned applications, coinciding with recent EU sanctions targeting VK Company and its subsidiary Communication Platform LLC, which oversees the Max app. The EU characterized Max as having extensive surveillance features used against critics of Russia's military actions in Ukraine. Apple also removed Max from its App Store in June without explanation. Max aims to be an all-encompassing platform for messaging, social media, digital identification, payments, banking, and government services, which critics say could enhance government monitoring of citizens. The Russian government has implemented strict measures against foreign social media platforms and previously enacted a ban on Telegram in 2026, which faced public backlash.

Winsage

July 16, 2026

Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro reach end of support in 90 days

Microsoft announced that Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016 and Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro editions will stop receiving updates on October 13, 2026. The Enterprise and Education editions will continue to receive mainstream support until October 12, 2027. Users are encouraged to upgrade to Windows 11 25H2, which became available in September 2024. For unmanaged Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro users, the transition to 25H2 will occur automatically, although they can postpone the update. Microsoft has also extended the free Windows 10 Extended Security Updates program for consumers until October 12, 2027.

AppWizard

July 16, 2026

University Awards Scholarships Worth Thousands of Dollars to Players Who Complete a Minecraft Challenge

Silicon Valley University in California is offering scholarships, called "Max Achievement Scholarships," to students who demonstrate exceptional gaming abilities, particularly in Minecraft. To qualify, applicants must unlock all 115 achievements in Minecraft and provide verified proof of their accomplishments. Successful candidates can receive up to ,000 to help cover tuition fees. Additionally, applicants must submit a written report connecting their gaming experiences to their educational and career goals and maintain a strong GPA to retain the scholarship. The university also offers similar scholarships for other games like Terraria, No Man’s Sky, and Ark: Survival Evolved.

BetaBeacon

July 16, 2026

Google to let rival Android app stores access Play catalog after Epic Games case: All about it

Google is allowing third-party Android app stores in the US to access the Google Play Store's catalog of apps through the Play Catalog Access Programme starting July 22. Eligible app stores can list apps available on Google Play but the actual download process will still be completed through the Google Play Store. The same terms and conditions as direct downloads from the Play Store will apply, including the Google Play service fee. Only Android app stores operating in the US can join the programme, and they must meet certain requirements such as displaying essential app information and offering customer support. App stores using Google's catalog must distribute Play Store apps only in the US, update their app listings regularly, offer other apps besides those in Google's catalogue, and not charge extra fees for downloads. Google will charge app store operators an annual ,000 service fee. To join the programme, app store operators must meet eligibility rules, submit an application, accept the agreement, pay the onboarding fee, create an app store account in the Play Console, submit required information and the app store APK for review, and integrate Google's Inline Install API upon approval. This move by Google is in compliance with a court order following its legal battle with Epic Games, with a settlement reached in November 2025.

Tech Optimizer

July 16, 2026

Get antivirus, a VPN, and password manager for $30

Panda Dome Complete is a comprehensive Windows security suite that offers protection against various digital threats, including ransomware, phishing scams, and data breaches. A one-year subscription is currently available for .99, reduced from its regular price of .99. Key features include real-time antivirus protection, anti-phishing tools, a dark web scanner, a built-in firewall, Wi-Fi protection, 150MB of daily VPN access, a password manager, PC cleanup tools, file encryption, secure file deletion, gaming and multimedia modes, and parental controls. The product is recognized by industry leaders and has over 23,000 reviews on Trustpilot.

AppWizard

July 16, 2026

Google Maps’ ‘Ask Maps’ feature could soon help you plan your trips

Google is enhancing the user experience of Google Maps by integrating the "Ask Maps" feature more seamlessly. This feature, launched in March, provides personalized recommendations and helps users discover new places. The latest version of Google Maps (v26.29.01.946673643) will include deeper integration of Ask Maps, with suggestions available on the home screen and specific place listings. Users will soon see Ask Maps suggestion chips on the directions screen, offering insights like “What’s the most scenic route?” and “What’s the best time to leave to avoid traffic?” A dedicated Ask Maps button will also be added at the end of the directions screen for real-time inquiries. These suggestions will only appear when travel modes are set to "Drive," "Bike," or "Walk," excluding public transit options. The feature is not yet active, but developments indicate Google's commitment to improving Google Maps functionality.