internet access Archives

AppWizard

July 25, 2026

GitHub ordered to remove decentralized messaging app Bitchat in India

India's Ministry of Home Affairs has ordered GitHub to remove repositories related to Jack Dorsey's Bitchat application, citing concerns that the platform could allow users to bypass internet shutdowns and evade surveillance. The directive targets the software itself rather than specific unlawful content, referencing Section 79(3)(b) of the Information Technology Act, 2000, and requires compliance within three hours to avoid legal repercussions for GitHub. The repositories in question are: - github.com/permissionlesstech/bitchat - github.com/permissionlesstech/bitchat-android - github.com/permissionlesstech/bitchat-android/releases Bitchat is a decentralized messaging app that operates over Bluetooth mesh networks, which does not require internet access and facilitates anonymous communication. The app's design includes features like end-to-end encryption and no mandatory user registration. The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) claims the app could be misused for illegal activities and cites local laws as justification for the takedown. The order comes amid ongoing protests in New Delhi, where internet access has been suspended. The Internet Freedom Foundation has criticized the order as unconstitutional and has called for its retraction. It is currently unclear if GitHub will comply with the takedown request.

AppWizard

July 24, 2026

India orders takedown of Jack Dorsey’s bitcoin-linked messaging app Bitchat

India's Cyber Crime Coordination Centre has ordered GitHub to remove Bitchat, an offline messaging app created by Jack Dorsey, due to its use by anti-government demonstrators in Delhi. The order, issued under Section 79(3)(b) of the IT Act, targets three GitHub repositories linked to Bitchat and requires action within three hours. The app enables anonymous communication without registration, posing challenges for law enforcement regarding lawful interception and investigation. Bitchat is a decentralized messaging tool that uses Bluetooth mesh networks for encrypted communication without internet access, and it also supports offline bitcoin transactions, ensuring continuity during outages or shutdowns.

Tech Optimizer

July 15, 2026

Can Chromebooks Get Viruses? How to Protect Your Device

Chromebooks are designed with robust security features, including sandboxing, Verified Boot, automatic updates, data encryption, and Recovery Mode, which collectively reduce the risk of malware infections. However, they are still vulnerable to threats such as malicious Chrome extensions, scam Android apps from third-party stores, phishing attacks, and risks associated with using Developer Mode and cloud storage. Users can identify potential malware through signs like slow performance, unexpected pop-ups, and unusual battery drain. To remove malware, users should eliminate suspicious extensions, uninstall dubious apps, run antivirus scans, enable Google Play Protect, or perform a Powerwash to reset the device. To protect their Chromebooks, users should avoid Developer Mode, check app permissions, use two-factor authentication, verify website URLs, and use a VPN on public Wi-Fi.

Winsage

July 12, 2026

We explain why Cloud Rebuild is one of Windows 11’s most important new features, and how it lets you recover your PC without a USB drive or complicated steps

Microsoft has introduced a new recovery feature for Windows 11 called Cloud rebuild, currently in preview mode. This feature allows users to restore their systems by downloading the Windows 11 image and necessary device drivers directly from Windows Update, eliminating the need for USB installation media or custom recovery images. OneDrive remains unaffected during the recovery process, enabling users to restore their files after signing back in. For organizations, devices managed via Windows Autopilot and Microsoft Intune can automatically re-enroll and restore settings post-rebuild. However, Cloud rebuild requires compatible hardware, a healthy Windows Recovery Environment, and internet connectivity. Currently, it can only be initiated from the Windows Recovery Environment or an elevated Command Prompt, with remote deployment not yet supported. The feature aims to simplify recovery processes and reduce reliance on USB drives, although it is not intended to replace existing recovery tools.

AppWizard

July 10, 2026

Proton VPN on Android: features, requirements, how to install

Proton VPN is a prominent VPN provider known for its speed and security, with its headquarters in Switzerland, which has strong privacy laws. The Android app features include Secure Core for enhanced anonymity, NetShield Ad-blocker to block ads and trackers, a kill switch to protect data during connection drops, alternative routing for bypassing restrictions, split tunneling for selective app usage, a VPN Accelerator for increased speeds, and P2P support for secure file sharing. The app requires Android 8 or later for installation, which can be done via the Play Store. Users can connect as guests to access limited features of Proton VPN Free.

Winsage

June 30, 2026

Is SteamOS ready to replace Windows? I installed it so you don’t have to

The Steam Machine was announced with a starting price of 9 in the U.S. and £879 in the U.K. SteamOS is currently in beta and primarily supports the Steam Deck, Steam Machine, and Lenovo Legion Go S, with only about 19.13% of Steam users utilizing AMD GPUs compared to 72.42% using Nvidia. AMD provides broad support for Linux through open-source drivers, while Nvidia's proprietary drivers complicate SteamOS installation. Installing SteamOS requires a complete wipe of the NVMe SSD, and there is limited support documentation from Valve. Users have created guides to assist with installation, which involves adjusting BIOS settings and partitioning drives. Networking issues were encountered during installation, requiring command line updates and workarounds. SteamOS offers a console-like experience and a user-friendly interface for gaming, but it presents challenges for users who are not experienced with DIY setups.

Tech Optimizer

June 24, 2026

Norton 360 Advanced gets 77% discount, drops price to £2.92/mo — top-rated antivirus, 200GB cloud backup, VPN, parental controls and more

Norton 360 Advanced is currently available at a 77% discount, reducing the monthly cost to £2.92 for protection of up to ten devices. It includes antivirus technology, 200GB Cloud Backup, a Password Manager, a VPN for secure browsing, a Parental Control App, Dark Web Monitoring, Identity Restoration Support, Social Media Monitoring, and Financial Monitoring services.

Tech Optimizer

June 24, 2026

Get 2 Years of Surfshark VPN and Antivirus for $2.79 Per Month This Prime Day

An advertiser has invested in editorial consideration for a deal that offers two years of Surfshark's VPN and antivirus service for less than .49 per month. Customers opting for the two-year Surfshark One plan receive an additional three months at no extra cost, totaling 27 months of coverage for .33, which breaks down to .49 per month. This offer coincides with Amazon Prime Day and is presented as a cost-effective subscription for long-term security solutions. Surfshark is recognized as the best-value VPN, offering three plans: Starter, One, and One Plus, with the One plan being the optimal choice for most users. It includes antivirus protection, data breach notifications, and a private search engine.

AppWizard

June 23, 2026

Play Chaos Cubed with Minecraft Realms

The AdventureCraft add-on for Minecraft introduces features such as spell casting, magical weapons, dungeons, and dragon riding. Players can earn a free trial for Minecraft Realms by watching live streams on Twitch or TikTok. The trial is available from June 18th to July 18th and is specifically for Realms Plus on Minecraft: Bedrock Edition. A valid Microsoft account and internet access are required, and players must complete a viewing challenge to receive a redemption code. Each Microsoft account is limited to one trial code, which applies to both Bedrock and Java accounts. Subscription terms apply, and the trial will automatically continue at the regular price unless canceled. Existing users of Realms Plus Server 3 will receive an additional month, while new users will receive a separate trial month. Geographic limitations and other restrictions may apply.

Winsage

June 19, 2026

Microsoft’s new Outlook now supports offline email attachments

Microsoft is transitioning users from the traditional Outlook app for Windows 11 to a newer web-based version. The latest update allows users to add email attachments while offline, with emails being sent automatically once the device reconnects to the internet. This feature has been in testing since October 2025 and is now rolling out to a broader audience. Despite these enhancements, many users still prefer the classic Outlook app or the web version.