Linux systems Archives

AppWizard

June 18, 2025

My 6 favorite open-source Android apps from the Google Play store – and why that matters

Android's ecosystem is closely linked with open-source software, attracting many enthusiasts. The Google Play Store offers a variety of open-source applications. 1. Bitwarden: An open-source password manager with essential features, industry-leading encryption, two-factor authentication, auto-fill capabilities, and a random password generator. It has a free version and a premium account for additional features. 2. Brave: A secure browser built on Chromium, featuring enhanced privacy tools, a built-in AI tool named Leo, and a toggleable VPN. It provides insights into tracker and ad blocking. 3. Wavelet: A free, open-source app for music lovers that offers preset sound profiles for various earbud models and features like AutoEQ, a graphic equalizer, and channel balance. 4. Tor Browser: A privacy-focused browser with extensive security features, though it may have slower loading times due to multiple security layers. It is free and open-source. 5. KDE Connect: An app that integrates Android devices with Linux systems, allowing users to share clipboard content, files, URLs, and notifications. It enhances productivity by enabling command execution on Linux devices from mobile phones. 6. ProtonVPN: A VPN service developed by CERN scientists, offering strong security features, access to servers in over 110 countries, and a free account with limitations. Paid plans provide higher speeds and more features.

AppWizard

June 14, 2025

Steam Deck and SteamOS hit 20,000 playable games

Valve's rating system for the Steam Deck and SteamOS has reached 20,000 games rated as at least playable, an increase from 19,000 in May, 18,000 in March, and 17,000 in November 2024. The criteria for rating on SteamOS focus on whether a game can load and be played, while Steam Deck ratings include performance metrics, full controller support, and resolution capabilities. Recently rated verified games include titles such as Stellar Blade, FBC: Firebreak, and Myst: Masterpiece Edition. Games recently rated as playable include The Alters, Dune: Awakening, and Slayaway Camp. The ratings system aims to provide users with a clear indication of playable games, although perceptions of "playable" can vary among users. The current count reflects only games that have undergone testing, with many more titles likely to be playable.

Winsage

June 9, 2025

Your Windows 10 PC ‘is toast’ – new warning issued ahead of Microsoft deadline

Windows 10 support will end on October 14, 2025, leaving users without updates, features, or security patches. Microsoft is offering Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for a fee, but not all users may qualify for an upgrade to Windows 11. Many users could face vulnerabilities and technical issues as their devices become outdated. KBE warns that while Windows 10 will still function temporarily after the cutoff, it will become obsolete, leading to potential data and privacy risks. New applications may also become inaccessible, pushing users to consider new hardware. KBE suggests transitioning to its Linux-based software solution, Plasma, which can revitalize older computers. Users are advised to back up files and read instructions carefully before switching to Linux.

Tech Optimizer

June 3, 2025

Misspell one word and you’re infected: New malware campaign fools developers on both Windows and Linux

Cybersecurity experts have highlighted the risks of typosquatting, where developers accidentally download malicious packages due to typographical errors. A report from Checkmarx reveals that attackers exploit this trust by creating counterfeit packages that can grant unauthorized access to systems. Malicious packages have been found in the Python Package Index (PyPI) and can enable remote control, posing serious threats to system integrity. Attackers employ a cross-platform strategy, mixing names from different programming environments to target unsuspecting users. On Windows, malware can create scheduled tasks and disable antivirus protections, while on Linux, certain packages facilitate encrypted reverse shells for data exfiltration. Although the malicious packages have been removed, the threat remains, prompting developers to verify package sources and spellings. Checkmarx recommends organizations conduct audits of deployed packages and scrutinize application code to enhance security.

Tech Optimizer

May 24, 2025

Arms Cyber Expands Ransomware Protection to macOS Devices

Apple devices, previously considered largely immune to cyber threats, are experiencing a rise in ransomware attacks targeting macOS, as reported by cybersecurity firm Black Fog. This shift is attributed to the increasing popularity of Apple devices and evolving ransomware tactics. Notable ransomware incidents include EvilQuest and MacRansom, with new threats like NotLockBit and FrigidStealer emerging. In response, Arms Cyber has begun offering ransomware protection for macOS, becoming the first firm to provide comprehensive protection across Windows, Linux, and macOS. Their solutions include real-time file entropy analysis, Steal Archival technology for rapid recovery, and Automated Moving Target Defense (AMTD) to thwart attacks. The growing use of Mac devices in critical sectors highlights the need for enhanced security measures, as attackers see opportunities in less protected systems. Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) are also being equipped with these protections to strengthen defenses against ransomware.

Winsage

May 22, 2025

Signal now blocks Microsoft Recall screenshots on Windows 11

Signal has introduced a "screen security" feature in its Windows application to enhance user privacy by preventing Microsoft's AI-driven Recall functionality from capturing content displayed within the app. This feature is active by default on all Windows 11 devices and sets a Digital Rights Management (DRM) flag on Signal's app windows. Recall, launched in May 2024, captures screenshots of active windows and has raised privacy concerns, leading Microsoft to make it optional and implement various security enhancements. Users can disable Signal's screen security but will be warned about potential privacy risks. Signal's developer, Joshua Lund, highlighted ongoing concerns regarding privacy in applications like Signal and called for a balance between privacy and accessibility in AI technologies.

Winsage

May 14, 2025

Microsoft fixes Linux boot issues on dual-boot Windows systems

Microsoft addressed a boot issue affecting dual-boot systems running Linux alongside Windows after the August 2024 Windows security updates, which caused Linux systems to fail to boot due to a Secure Boot Advanced Targeting (SBAT) update. This issue impacted various Windows operating systems, including Windows 10, Windows 11, and Windows Server 2012 and later. The problem arose from a detection mechanism that failed to recognize some customized dual-boot setups, leading to error messages such as "Something has gone seriously wrong: SBAT self-check failed: Security Policy Violation." Microsoft confirmed that the boot issues would be resolved with the May 2025 Patch Tuesday security updates and provided a temporary workaround in late August, advising users to delete the SBAT update. On September 19, Microsoft stopped the automatic application of the problematic SBAT update and recommended a command to prevent future SBAT updates. The issue was specific to the August 2024 security and preview updates, and subsequent updates starting with September 2024 did not contain the problematic settings.

Winsage

May 14, 2025

Windows 11’s Patch Tuesday for May finally brings Recall into the mix

Microsoft's Recall feature is set to debut after a delay due to security concerns. The update for Windows 11, released on May 13th, includes AI-driven tools to enhance user interactions and productivity. Key features integrated from the April 25th Preview update include: - Recall (preview): Allows users to retrieve information from various applications, websites, and documents using AI for quick searches based on content descriptions, with options to save snapshots of activities and manage them through Windows Hello. - Click to Do (preview): Enables immediate action on items displayed on the screen using a keyboard shortcut for editing or summarizing content. - Improved Windows Search: Enhanced search capabilities allow natural language queries to locate documents and settings. - Phone Link: Facilitates interaction between Windows PCs and mobile devices for calls, messages, and content sharing. - Widgets: Web developers can create interactive widgets with customization options for lock screen widgets. Additional updates include improvements to File Explorer, accessibility enhancements, and new settings management options for app recommendations. The update for Windows 10 focuses on a fix for Secure Boot Advanced Targeting (SBAT) and Linux Extensible Firmware Interface (EFI) to improve detection of Linux systems. Detailed patch notes and download links are available through the Microsoft Update Catalog.

Winsage

May 11, 2025

I started dual-booting NixOS alongside Windows, and I’m so glad I did

Dual-booting allows users to navigate between Windows and Linux, with NixOS being a notable Linux distribution due to its unique package management system that isolates each package in its own immutable path, preventing dependency conflicts. NixOS uses a single configuration file for system management, enabling atomic changes and easy rollbacks. Users have reported that NixOS provides a streamlined experience compared to Windows, which is often cluttered with advertisements and notifications, and feels sluggish. Daily use of NixOS is described as straightforward and enjoyable, allowing for easy customization and experimentation without the fear of disrupting the system. While some users still rely on Windows for specific applications, NixOS offers a stable and personalized environment that enhances the overall computing experience.

Tech Optimizer

April 29, 2025

Intego Mac Internet Security

PCs were introduced before Apple’s Macintosh, leading to the emergence of PC viruses and the establishment of antivirus companies, with Macintosh protection being less prioritized. Intego focused on Macintosh security from the start, offering Intego Mac Internet Security, which includes a firewall that manages network permissions and defends against external attacks. Intego has been effective against Mac malware, achieving a 99.1% malware detection score in independent lab tests, although it lacks phishing protection, a feature offered by competitors Norton 360 Deluxe and Bitdefender Antivirus Plus. Intego's pricing is competitive, with a standard annual fee of .99 for a single license and .99 for three licenses. A five-device subscription costs .99, while the Mac Premium Bundle starts at .99 annually and includes additional features. A 14-day free trial is available, and free alternatives like Avast and AVG are also on the market. Intego supports older macOS versions back to Mavericks (10.9), but the latest version requires High Sierra (10.13) or later. The installation process for Intego is straightforward, requiring a restart and granting necessary permissions. The main interface includes components for updates, firewall, and antivirus, with user-friendly access to scanning options. Intego has received certification from AV-Comparatives and detected 100% of Windows malware samples in tests. Its quick scan takes about two and a half minutes, while a full system scan takes seven minutes. Intego's Safe Browsing feature checks existing browser protections but lacks a dedicated antiphishing solution. The NetBarrier firewall allows users to classify their network and manage traffic permissions effectively, although it may be complex for some users.