Internet Explorer

Winsage
July 30, 2025
Opera has filed a complaint against Microsoft in Brazil, accusing the company of using "manipulative design tactics" to dominate the browser market and hinder competition. Opera's general counsel, Aaron McParlan, stated that Microsoft creates barriers for other browsers, such as excluding them from preinstallation opportunities and complicating the download process. The complaint highlights Microsoft's practices of overriding users' default browser preferences and using Windows features to promote Edge. Opera seeks remedies to allow PC manufacturers to preload alternative browsers and stop blocking downloads. Additionally, the complaint criticizes Microsoft's requirement for OEMs to deliver devices in S mode to receive rebates on Windows OS licenses. This action is part of Opera's broader strategy to challenge Microsoft's practices globally, including an appeal to EU courts regarding the classification of Edge under the Digital Markets Act. Opera has a history of raising concerns about Microsoft's browser practices, including a 2007 antitrust complaint that led to the creation of a browser ballot screen.
Winsage
July 29, 2025
Windows 10 was launched as a response to the mixed reception of Windows 8, aiming to provide a stable and reliable alternative. It offered improved performance on solid-state drives compared to Windows 7, although it did not achieve the same affection. The development included the Windows Insider program for user feedback, but responsiveness to that feedback was inconsistent. The operating system faced issues, such as the problematic October 2018 Update that deleted user files. Windows 10 Mobile, launched alongside, quickly faded due to lack of interest. The desktop version thrived, aided by a free upgrade offer and hardware compatibility. Privacy concerns arose due to telemetry and data collection practices. Microsoft replaced Internet Explorer with the Edge browser, which later adopted the Chromium engine. Despite challenges, Windows 10 maintained a strong presence in the desktop market, proving to be a stabilizing force for Microsoft after Windows 8.
Winsage
July 23, 2025
Windows XP was launched in 2001 and officially discontinued in 2014. A project by Reddit user ducbao414, unveiled on July 13th to coincide with the 25th anniversary of Windows XP's development, allows users to experience a web-based replica of the operating system. This replica captures the classic interface but does not provide a fully functional version. Users can access familiar applications like Paint, Media Player Classic, Microsoft Word, and Minesweeper, but cannot browse the internet or run external applications. The project is available for free at win32.run.
Winsage
July 11, 2025
Microsoft has announced that starting with Windows 11 version 24H2, the JScript9Legacy engine will be enabled by default for all scripting processes that previously relied on the classic JScript engine. This new engine offers improved protection against threats like cross-site scripting (XSS) and enhances performance. Users will not need to take any action, as existing scripts will continue to function normally. In case of compatibility issues, organizations can revert to the previous engine temporarily. The transition marks the retirement of JScript, which has been part of Windows since 1996, as it is now considered outdated and vulnerable. Microsoft has decided to discontinue support for JScript due to the retirement of Internet Explorer and the adoption of the Edge browser. This update applies only to Windows 11 version 24H2 and later, while older versions will still use the original JScript engine.
Winsage
July 11, 2025
Microsoft has replaced the default scripting engine JScript with JScript9Legacy in Windows 11, version 24H2 and beyond to enhance security against web threats, particularly cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities. JScript, which has been in use since 1996, has become outdated and non-compliant with modern security standards. JScript9Legacy is designed to meet legacy scripting needs while improving security and compatibility. The transition to JScript9Legacy will occur automatically for users, and existing scripts should continue to function without disruption. If compatibility issues arise, users can revert to the previous engine with support from Microsoft.
AppWizard
July 9, 2025
Google is rolling out an update to its Android operating system that allows its Gemini AI to access third-party applications by default, overriding users' previous privacy settings. This change, effective July 8, has led to confusion among users, as many received unclear email notifications regarding the update and how to disable the new feature. Google has stated that human reviewers may process app data, and conversations could be stored for up to 72 hours, even if users opt out of activity tracking. The update is part of Google's strategy to integrate Gemini more deeply into its ecosystem, replacing the Google Assistant with Gemini on mobile devices. The company plans to open its Gemini Nano model to third-party developers, further embedding AI into applications.
Tech Optimizer
July 5, 2025
Cybercriminals are using legitimate software installer frameworks like Inno Setup to distribute malware, taking advantage of its trusted appearance and scripting capabilities. A recent campaign demonstrated how a malicious Inno Setup installer can deliver information-stealing malware, such as RedLine Stealer, through a multi-stage infection process. This process includes evasion techniques like detecting debuggers and sandbox environments, using XOR encryption to obscure strings, and conducting WMI queries to identify malware analysis tools. The installer retrieves a payload from a command-and-control server via a TinyURL link and creates a scheduled task for persistence. The payload employs DLL sideloading to load HijackLoader, which ultimately injects RedLine Stealer into a legitimate process to steal sensitive information. RedLine Stealer uses obfuscation techniques and disables security features in browsers to avoid detection. The Splunk Threat Research Team has developed detection methods focusing on indicators such as unsigned DLL sideloading and suspicious browser behaviors. Indicators of Compromise (IOC): - Malicious Inno Setup Loader Hash 1: 0d5311014c66423261d1069fda108dab33673bd68d697e22adb096db05d851b7 - Malicious Inno Setup Loader Hash 2: 0ee63776197a80de42e164314cea55453aa24d8eabca0b481f778eba7215c160 - Malicious Inno Setup Loader Hash 3: 12876f134bde914fe87b7abb8e6b0727b2ffe9e9334797b7dcbaa1c1ac612ed6 - Malicious Inno Setup Loader Hash 4: 8f55ad8c8dec23576097595d2789c9d53c92a6575e5e53bfbc51699d52d0d30a
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