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PoC Exploit Released for Microsoft Windows Error Reporting ALPC Privilege Escalation
Winsage
March 4, 2026

PoC Exploit Released for Microsoft Windows Error Reporting ALPC Privilege Escalation

A proof-of-concept exploit for CVE-2026-20817, a local privilege escalation vulnerability in the Windows Error Reporting (WER) service, has been released by security researcher oxfemale on GitHub. This vulnerability allows low-privileged users to gain SYSTEM-level access through crafted Advanced Local Procedure Call (ALPC) messages. The flaw is located in the WER service's SvcElevatedLaunch method, which fails to validate caller privileges before executing WerFault.exe with user-supplied command line parameters. The CVSS v3.1 base score for this vulnerability is 7.8, indicating a high severity level. It affects unpatched versions of Windows 10, Windows 11, Windows Server 2019, and Windows Server 2022 prior to the January 2026 update. Demonstrations have shown successful exploitation on Windows 11 23H2. Security teams are advised to monitor for unusual processes related to WerFault.exe, investigate missing SeTcbPrivilege in SYSTEM tokens, and review WER-related activities from low-privilege users. Immediate application of the January 2026 security patches is recommended, and a temporary workaround involves disabling the WER service.
PoC Exploit Released for Windows Error Reporting ALPC Privilege Escalation
Winsage
March 3, 2026

PoC Exploit Released for Windows Error Reporting ALPC Privilege Escalation

A critical local privilege escalation vulnerability, tracked as CVE-2026-20817, affects Microsoft Windows through the Windows Error Reporting (WER) service. This flaw allows authenticated users with low-level privileges to execute arbitrary code with full SYSTEM privileges. The vulnerability resides in the SvcElevatedLaunch method (0x0D) and fails to validate user permissions, enabling attackers to launch WerFault.exe with malicious command-line parameters from a shared memory block. The exploit affects all versions of Windows 10 and Windows 11 prior to January 2026, as well as Windows Server 2019 and 2022. Microsoft addressed this vulnerability in the January 2026 Security Update. Organizations are advised to apply security patches and monitor for unusual WerFault.exe processes.
Hackers Abuse Windows File Explorer and WebDAV for Stealthy Malware Delivery
Winsage
March 1, 2026

Hackers Abuse Windows File Explorer and WebDAV for Stealthy Malware Delivery

Cybercriminals are exploiting a legacy feature in Windows File Explorer, specifically the WebDAV protocol, to distribute malware and bypass traditional security measures. Despite Microsoft deprecating native WebDAV support in November 2023, it remains active on many systems. Attackers use WebDAV to deceive victims into executing malicious payloads by sending links that connect File Explorer directly to remote servers, avoiding web browsers and their security warnings. They employ methods such as direct linking, URL shortcut files, and LNK shortcut files to deliver exploits. The primary objective of these campaigns, which surged in late 2024, is to deploy Remote Access Trojans (RATs), with 87% of Active Threat Reports involving multiple RATs like XWorm RAT, Async RAT, and DcRAT. These campaigns predominantly target corporate networks in Europe, with many phishing emails written in German and English. Attackers use short-lived WebDAV servers hosted on Cloudflare Tunnel demo accounts to obscure their infrastructure. Security analysts are advised to monitor unusual network activity from Windows Explorer and educate users to verify addresses in File Explorer.
Fake Huorong Site Delivers ValleyRAT Backdoor in Targeted Malware Campaign
Tech Optimizer
February 24, 2026

Fake Huorong Site Delivers ValleyRAT Backdoor in Targeted Malware Campaign

A cyber operation is targeting users of Huorong Security antivirus software through a typosquatted domain, huoronga[.]com, which mimics the legitimate site huorong.cn. Users who mistakenly visit the counterfeit site may download a file named BR火绒445[.]zip, which contains a trojanized installer that leads to the installation of ValleyRAT, a remote access trojan. The malware employs various techniques to evade detection, including using an intermediary domain for downloads, creating Windows Defender exclusions, and establishing a scheduled task for persistence. The backdoor facilitates activities such as keylogging and credential access while disguising its operations within legitimate processes like rundll32.exe. Attribution points to the Silver Fox APT group, and there has been a significant increase in ValleyRAT samples documented in recent months. Security measures include ensuring software downloads are from the official site and monitoring for specific malicious activities.
Databricks Introduces Lakebase, a PostgreSQL Database for AI Workloads
Tech Optimizer
February 23, 2026

Databricks Introduces Lakebase, a PostgreSQL Database for AI Workloads

Databricks has launched Lakebase, a serverless database solution based on PostgreSQL that allows independent scaling of compute and storage resources. It integrates with the Databricks platform, combining transactional and analytical functionalities. Lakebase aims to simplify real-time application and AI workload development by consolidating database management, analytics, and governance. Key features include instant data branching, point-in-time recovery, and unified access controls. It is designed to address the limitations of traditional operational databases, which struggle with modern AI demands. Lakebase offers a managed PostgreSQL service, supporting up to 8TB per instance and featuring pgvector for AI-driven search. It has been in development since June 2025, utilizing technology from the PostgreSQL company Neon and enhanced by the acquisition of Mooncake. Lakebase is available in Autoscaling and Provisioned versions, with the Autoscaling version billed based on usage. It is currently available on AWS, in public preview on Azure, and expected on Google Cloud later this year. SOC2 and HIPAA certifications are projected for early 2026.
Today’s Android app deals and freebies: Undead Slayer, Alien Food Invasion, Muse Dash, more
BetaBeacon
February 17, 2026

Today’s Android app deals and freebies: Undead Slayer, Alien Food Invasion, Muse Dash, more

The Alien Food Invasion Premium Android app is currently priced at [openai_gpt model="gpt-3.5-turbo-0125" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: Today’s highlight Android app price drops: Alien Food Invasion Premium [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-3.5-turbo-0125" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: Reg. $1+/FREE+ Your afternoon lineup of the best Android game and app deals awaits below, including titles like Undead Slayer, Alien Food Invasion, Cooking Quest, CHUCHEL, Muse Dash, and more. Be sure to go secure your early pre-order discount on Galaxy S26 before launch next week and then check out the deals we have on Galaxy Tab S11, the originally $400 Google Pixel Watch 3 now at $170 Amazon low, and the latest Nest Cam Indoor at 25% off (or up to 30% off open-box). Then hit the jump for today’s apps.  Today’s highlight Android app price drops: Alien Food Invasion Premium $0.50 (Reg. $1) Warriors’ Market Mayhem VIP : FREE (Reg. $1) Cooking Quest VIP : Food Wagon FREE (Reg. $1) Undead Slayer: Offline Premium FREE (Reg. $1) CHUCHEL $2 (Reg. $7) Halls of Torment: Premium $3 (Reg. $5) Machinarium $3 (Reg. $10) YoWindow Weather $6 (Reg. $10) Muse Dash $0.50 (Reg. $3) ARIDA: Backland’s Awakening $1 (Reg. $3) CircleDient Icon Pack Gradient FREE (Reg. $1.50) Crossword Quest Premium FREE (Reg. $3) Originally $400 Google Pixel Watch 3 in matte black now at $170 Amazon low More Android app deals still live: Bright Memory: Infinite $2 (Reg. $5) [VIP] Missile Dude RPG : idle FREE (Reg. $2) Avalar: Raid of Shadow Premium FREE (Reg. $1) DREDGE $10 (Reg. $25) Eco inc. Save the Earth FREE (Reg. $0.50) Delivery From the Pain:Premium $2.50 (Reg. $5) Shadow Hunter: Offline Premium FREE (Reg. $1) Zombie Age 2 Premium: Shooter FREE (Reg. $0.50) Paign – RPG $2 (Reg. $3) Chloe Puzzle Game Pro $0.50 (Reg. $0.50) Tiny Terraces $1.50 (Reg. $2) Botanicula $2 (Reg. $7) Samorost 2 $1 (Reg. $3) Samorost 3 $3 (Reg. $10) Lost Echo $1 (Reg. $4.50) FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.You’re reading 9to5Toys — experts digging up all the latest technology and lifestyle deals, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Toys on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out the best Apple deals, our daily podcast, and subscribe to our YouTube channel" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].50 (Reg. ) Warriors’ Market Mayhem VIP : FREE (Reg. ) Cooking Quest VIP : Food Wagon FREE (Reg. ) Undead Slayer: Offline Premium FREE (Reg. ) CHUCHEL (Reg. ) Halls of Torment: Premium (Reg. ) Machinarium (Reg. ) YoWindow Weather (Reg. ) Muse Dash [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-3.5-turbo-0125" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: Reg. $1+/FREE+ Your afternoon lineup of the best Android game and app deals awaits below, including titles like Undead Slayer, Alien Food Invasion, Cooking Quest, CHUCHEL, Muse Dash, and more. Be sure to go secure your early pre-order discount on Galaxy S26 before launch next week and then check out the deals we have on Galaxy Tab S11, the originally $400 Google Pixel Watch 3 now at $170 Amazon low, and the latest Nest Cam Indoor at 25% off (or up to 30% off open-box). Then hit the jump for today’s apps.  Today’s highlight Android app price drops: Alien Food Invasion Premium $0.50 (Reg. $1) Warriors’ Market Mayhem VIP : FREE (Reg. $1) Cooking Quest VIP : Food Wagon FREE (Reg. $1) Undead Slayer: Offline Premium FREE (Reg. $1) CHUCHEL $2 (Reg. $7) Halls of Torment: Premium $3 (Reg. $5) Machinarium $3 (Reg. $10) YoWindow Weather $6 (Reg. $10) Muse Dash $0.50 (Reg. $3) ARIDA: Backland’s Awakening $1 (Reg. $3) CircleDient Icon Pack Gradient FREE (Reg. $1.50) Crossword Quest Premium FREE (Reg. $3) Originally $400 Google Pixel Watch 3 in matte black now at $170 Amazon low More Android app deals still live: Bright Memory: Infinite $2 (Reg. $5) [VIP] Missile Dude RPG : idle FREE (Reg. $2) Avalar: Raid of Shadow Premium FREE (Reg. $1) DREDGE $10 (Reg. $25) Eco inc. Save the Earth FREE (Reg. $0.50) Delivery From the Pain:Premium $2.50 (Reg. $5) Shadow Hunter: Offline Premium FREE (Reg. $1) Zombie Age 2 Premium: Shooter FREE (Reg. $0.50) Paign – RPG $2 (Reg. $3) Chloe Puzzle Game Pro $0.50 (Reg. $0.50) Tiny Terraces $1.50 (Reg. $2) Botanicula $2 (Reg. $7) Samorost 2 $1 (Reg. $3) Samorost 3 $3 (Reg. $10) Lost Echo $1 (Reg. $4.50) FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.You’re reading 9to5Toys — experts digging up all the latest technology and lifestyle deals, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Toys on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out the best Apple deals, our daily podcast, and subscribe to our YouTube channel" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].50 (Reg. ) ARIDA: Backland’s Awakening (Reg. ) CircleDient Icon Pack Gradient FREE (Reg. .50) Crossword Quest Premium FREE (Reg. ) More Android app deals still live: Bright Memory: Infinite (Reg. ) [VIP] Missile Dude RPG : idle FREE (Reg. ) Avalar: Raid of Shadow Premium FREE (Reg. ) DREDGE (Reg. ) Eco inc. Save the Earth FREE (Reg. [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-3.5-turbo-0125" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: Reg. $1+/FREE+ Your afternoon lineup of the best Android game and app deals awaits below, including titles like Undead Slayer, Alien Food Invasion, Cooking Quest, CHUCHEL, Muse Dash, and more. Be sure to go secure your early pre-order discount on Galaxy S26 before launch next week and then check out the deals we have on Galaxy Tab S11, the originally $400 Google Pixel Watch 3 now at $170 Amazon low, and the latest Nest Cam Indoor at 25% off (or up to 30% off open-box). Then hit the jump for today’s apps.  Today’s highlight Android app price drops: Alien Food Invasion Premium $0.50 (Reg. $1) Warriors’ Market Mayhem VIP : FREE (Reg. $1) Cooking Quest VIP : Food Wagon FREE (Reg. $1) Undead Slayer: Offline Premium FREE (Reg. $1) CHUCHEL $2 (Reg. $7) Halls of Torment: Premium $3 (Reg. $5) Machinarium $3 (Reg. $10) YoWindow Weather $6 (Reg. $10) Muse Dash $0.50 (Reg. $3) ARIDA: Backland’s Awakening $1 (Reg. $3) CircleDient Icon Pack Gradient FREE (Reg. $1.50) Crossword Quest Premium FREE (Reg. $3) Originally $400 Google Pixel Watch 3 in matte black now at $170 Amazon low More Android app deals still live: Bright Memory: Infinite $2 (Reg. $5) [VIP] Missile Dude RPG : idle FREE (Reg. $2) Avalar: Raid of Shadow Premium FREE (Reg. $1) DREDGE $10 (Reg. $25) Eco inc. Save the Earth FREE (Reg. $0.50) Delivery From the Pain:Premium $2.50 (Reg. $5) Shadow Hunter: Offline Premium FREE (Reg. $1) Zombie Age 2 Premium: Shooter FREE (Reg. $0.50) Paign – RPG $2 (Reg. $3) Chloe Puzzle Game Pro $0.50 (Reg. $0.50) Tiny Terraces $1.50 (Reg. $2) Botanicula $2 (Reg. $7) Samorost 2 $1 (Reg. $3) Samorost 3 $3 (Reg. $10) Lost Echo $1 (Reg. $4.50) FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.You’re reading 9to5Toys — experts digging up all the latest technology and lifestyle deals, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Toys on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out the best Apple deals, our daily podcast, and subscribe to our YouTube channel" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].50) Delivery From the Pain:Premium .50 (Reg. ) Shadow Hunter: Offline Premium FREE (Reg. ) Zombie Age 2 Premium: Shooter FREE (Reg. [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-3.5-turbo-0125" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: Reg. $1+/FREE+ Your afternoon lineup of the best Android game and app deals awaits below, including titles like Undead Slayer, Alien Food Invasion, Cooking Quest, CHUCHEL, Muse Dash, and more. Be sure to go secure your early pre-order discount on Galaxy S26 before launch next week and then check out the deals we have on Galaxy Tab S11, the originally $400 Google Pixel Watch 3 now at $170 Amazon low, and the latest Nest Cam Indoor at 25% off (or up to 30% off open-box). Then hit the jump for today’s apps.  Today’s highlight Android app price drops: Alien Food Invasion Premium $0.50 (Reg. $1) Warriors’ Market Mayhem VIP : FREE (Reg. $1) Cooking Quest VIP : Food Wagon FREE (Reg. $1) Undead Slayer: Offline Premium FREE (Reg. $1) CHUCHEL $2 (Reg. $7) Halls of Torment: Premium $3 (Reg. $5) Machinarium $3 (Reg. $10) YoWindow Weather $6 (Reg. $10) Muse Dash $0.50 (Reg. $3) ARIDA: Backland’s Awakening $1 (Reg. $3) CircleDient Icon Pack Gradient FREE (Reg. $1.50) Crossword Quest Premium FREE (Reg. $3) Originally $400 Google Pixel Watch 3 in matte black now at $170 Amazon low More Android app deals still live: Bright Memory: Infinite $2 (Reg. $5) [VIP] Missile Dude RPG : idle FREE (Reg. $2) Avalar: Raid of Shadow Premium FREE (Reg. $1) DREDGE $10 (Reg. $25) Eco inc. Save the Earth FREE (Reg. $0.50) Delivery From the Pain:Premium $2.50 (Reg. $5) Shadow Hunter: Offline Premium FREE (Reg. $1) Zombie Age 2 Premium: Shooter FREE (Reg. $0.50) Paign – RPG $2 (Reg. $3) Chloe Puzzle Game Pro $0.50 (Reg. $0.50) Tiny Terraces $1.50 (Reg. $2) Botanicula $2 (Reg. $7) Samorost 2 $1 (Reg. $3) Samorost 3 $3 (Reg. $10) Lost Echo $1 (Reg. $4.50) FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.You’re reading 9to5Toys — experts digging up all the latest technology and lifestyle deals, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Toys on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out the best Apple deals, our daily podcast, and subscribe to our YouTube channel" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].50) Paign – RPG (Reg. ) Chloe Puzzle Game Pro [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-3.5-turbo-0125" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: Reg. $1+/FREE+ Your afternoon lineup of the best Android game and app deals awaits below, including titles like Undead Slayer, Alien Food Invasion, Cooking Quest, CHUCHEL, Muse Dash, and more. Be sure to go secure your early pre-order discount on Galaxy S26 before launch next week and then check out the deals we have on Galaxy Tab S11, the originally $400 Google Pixel Watch 3 now at $170 Amazon low, and the latest Nest Cam Indoor at 25% off (or up to 30% off open-box). Then hit the jump for today’s apps.  Today’s highlight Android app price drops: Alien Food Invasion Premium $0.50 (Reg. $1) Warriors’ Market Mayhem VIP : FREE (Reg. $1) Cooking Quest VIP : Food Wagon FREE (Reg. $1) Undead Slayer: Offline Premium FREE (Reg. $1) CHUCHEL $2 (Reg. $7) Halls of Torment: Premium $3 (Reg. $5) Machinarium $3 (Reg. $10) YoWindow Weather $6 (Reg. $10) Muse Dash $0.50 (Reg. $3) ARIDA: Backland’s Awakening $1 (Reg. $3) CircleDient Icon Pack Gradient FREE (Reg. $1.50) Crossword Quest Premium FREE (Reg. $3) Originally $400 Google Pixel Watch 3 in matte black now at $170 Amazon low More Android app deals still live: Bright Memory: Infinite $2 (Reg. $5) [VIP] Missile Dude RPG : idle FREE (Reg. $2) Avalar: Raid of Shadow Premium FREE (Reg. $1) DREDGE $10 (Reg. $25) Eco inc. Save the Earth FREE (Reg. $0.50) Delivery From the Pain:Premium $2.50 (Reg. $5) Shadow Hunter: Offline Premium FREE (Reg. $1) Zombie Age 2 Premium: Shooter FREE (Reg. $0.50) Paign – RPG $2 (Reg. $3) Chloe Puzzle Game Pro $0.50 (Reg. $0.50) Tiny Terraces $1.50 (Reg. $2) Botanicula $2 (Reg. $7) Samorost 2 $1 (Reg. $3) Samorost 3 $3 (Reg. $10) Lost Echo $1 (Reg. $4.50) FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.You’re reading 9to5Toys — experts digging up all the latest technology and lifestyle deals, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Toys on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out the best Apple deals, our daily podcast, and subscribe to our YouTube channel" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].50 (Reg. [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-3.5-turbo-0125" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: Reg. $1+/FREE+ Your afternoon lineup of the best Android game and app deals awaits below, including titles like Undead Slayer, Alien Food Invasion, Cooking Quest, CHUCHEL, Muse Dash, and more. Be sure to go secure your early pre-order discount on Galaxy S26 before launch next week and then check out the deals we have on Galaxy Tab S11, the originally $400 Google Pixel Watch 3 now at $170 Amazon low, and the latest Nest Cam Indoor at 25% off (or up to 30% off open-box). Then hit the jump for today’s apps.  Today’s highlight Android app price drops: Alien Food Invasion Premium $0.50 (Reg. $1) Warriors’ Market Mayhem VIP : FREE (Reg. $1) Cooking Quest VIP : Food Wagon FREE (Reg. $1) Undead Slayer: Offline Premium FREE (Reg. $1) CHUCHEL $2 (Reg. $7) Halls of Torment: Premium $3 (Reg. $5) Machinarium $3 (Reg. $10) YoWindow Weather $6 (Reg. $10) Muse Dash $0.50 (Reg. $3) ARIDA: Backland’s Awakening $1 (Reg. $3) CircleDient Icon Pack Gradient FREE (Reg. $1.50) Crossword Quest Premium FREE (Reg. $3) Originally $400 Google Pixel Watch 3 in matte black now at $170 Amazon low More Android app deals still live: Bright Memory: Infinite $2 (Reg. $5) [VIP] Missile Dude RPG : idle FREE (Reg. $2) Avalar: Raid of Shadow Premium FREE (Reg. $1) DREDGE $10 (Reg. $25) Eco inc. Save the Earth FREE (Reg. $0.50) Delivery From the Pain:Premium $2.50 (Reg. $5) Shadow Hunter: Offline Premium FREE (Reg. $1) Zombie Age 2 Premium: Shooter FREE (Reg. $0.50) Paign – RPG $2 (Reg. $3) Chloe Puzzle Game Pro $0.50 (Reg. $0.50) Tiny Terraces $1.50 (Reg. $2) Botanicula $2 (Reg. $7) Samorost 2 $1 (Reg. $3) Samorost 3 $3 (Reg. $10) Lost Echo $1 (Reg. $4.50) FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.You’re reading 9to5Toys — experts digging up all the latest technology and lifestyle deals, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Toys on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out the best Apple deals, our daily podcast, and subscribe to our YouTube channel" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].50) Tiny Terraces .50 (Reg. ) Botanicula (Reg. ) Samorost 2 (Reg. ) Samorost 3 (Reg. ) Lost Echo (Reg. .50)" max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].50, down from its regular price of .
Microsoft Windows 11 KB5077181 Update Triggers Infinite Restart Loop on Some Devices
Winsage
February 17, 2026

Microsoft Windows 11 KB5077181 Update Triggers Infinite Restart Loop on Some Devices

Microsoft's Patch Tuesday update, KB5077181, released on February 10, 2026, has caused significant boot failures for users of Windows 11 versions 24H2 (OS build 26200.7840) and 25H2 (OS build 26100.7840), resulting in endless restart loops. Users are reporting over 15 reboot cycles, preventing access to their desktops. Issues include System Event Notification Service (SENS) errors and DHCP problems affecting internet connectivity. Installation errors with codes 0x800f0983 and 0x800f0991 indicate potential hardware, driver, or servicing stack incompatibilities. The update was intended to address 58 vulnerabilities, including six zero-days, but the boot loop issue has overshadowed these enhancements. CVE IDs and their CVSS scores related to the vulnerabilities addressed include: - CVE-2026-21510: 7.5 - CVE-2026-21519: 7.8 - CVE-2026-21533: 8.8 - CVE-2026-20841: 7.1 As of February 15, 2026, there is no "known issues" entry in Microsoft's release notes despite user reports. Users can uninstall the update through the Control Panel if their systems are accessible, or use the Windows Recovery Environment to execute commands for uninstallation if their systems are unbootable.
Researchers Uncover OysterLoader, an Advanced Obfuscated Loader Powering Rhysida Attacks
Tech Optimizer
February 16, 2026

Researchers Uncover OysterLoader, an Advanced Obfuscated Loader Powering Rhysida Attacks

OysterLoader, a sophisticated malware loader also known as Broomstick and CleanUp, has emerged as a significant threat since mid-2024. It is a multi-stage downloader linked to ransomware attacks and data theft, particularly associated with the Rhysida ransomware group. Written in C++, it infiltrates systems through malicious websites that impersonate legitimate software download platforms, tricking victims into executing a signed Microsoft Installer (MSI) that launches the malware. OysterLoader employs a four-stage infection chain designed to evade detection. The first stage uses a packer named TextShell to load hidden code into memory, creating an illusion of legitimacy through harmless Windows API calls. The second stage decompresses a concealed payload using a modified LZMA algorithm. The third stage functions as a downloader and environment tester, establishing contact with its command-and-control (C2) server via HTTPS. In the final stage, OysterLoader installs a malicious DLL that executes every 13 minutes through the Windows Task Scheduler, communicating with multiple hardcoded servers and transmitting critical system information. The malware uses customized Base64 encoding and variable communication endpoints to evade detection. Its primary objective is to ensure persistence and facilitate the delivery of additional payloads, including ransomware and credential stealers. Security analysts predict that OysterLoader will remain a formidable threat through 2026, particularly for organizations downloading administrative tools from unverified sources. Indicators of Compromise (IOC): - Mutex: h6p#dx!&fse?%AS! - Task: COPYING3 (rundll32 DllRegisterServer) - C2 Domain: grandideapay[.]com/api/v2/facade - RC4 Key: vpjNm4FDCr82AtUfhe39EG5JLwuZszKPyTcXWVMHYnRgBkSQqxzBfb6m75HZV3UyRY8vPxDna4WC2KMAgJjQqukrFdELXeGNSws9SBFXnYJ6ExMyu97KCebD5mTwaUj42NPAvHdkGhVtczWgfrZ3sLyRZg4HuX97AnQtK8xvpLU2CWDhVq5PEfjTNz36wdFasecBrkGSDApf83d6NMyaJCsvcRBq9ZYKthjuw5S27EVzWrPHgkmUxFL4bQSgMa4F - IP: 85.239.53.66
Phishing Lures Spread XWorm Remote Access Trojan
Tech Optimizer
February 16, 2026

Phishing Lures Spread XWorm Remote Access Trojan

A cyber-espionage campaign is utilizing the XWorm Remote Access Trojan (RAT) to infiltrate systems via phishing emails and a Microsoft Office vulnerability (CVE-2018-0802). XWorm, first detected in 2022, allows attackers remote control over infected computers for surveillance and data theft. The campaign uses business-oriented phishing emails with malicious Excel attachments that exploit the vulnerability to execute a fileless attack. The malware connects to a command-and-control server, encrypting communications and transmitting system details. XWorm features a plugin architecture with over 50 modules for various malicious activities, including credential theft and DDoS attacks. Security experts highlight the ongoing risk of legacy software vulnerabilities and recommend patching outdated components.
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