Linux systems Archives

AppWizard

August 9, 2025

Battlefield 6’s anti-cheat has already stopped 330,000 ‘attempts to cheat’ in the open beta, but players are still calling out wallhackers who slip through the net

The Battlefield 6 open beta has seen reports of cheaters using wall hacks, despite EA's implementation of the Javelin anti-cheat system. EA's anti-cheat team has noted that Secure Boot is not a definitive solution and requires ongoing data to adapt to new cheating methods. Players need relatively new gaming rigs to participate, and those on Linux systems are excluded. The presence of cheaters on the first day raises concerns about the effectiveness of anti-cheat measures ahead of the beta's wider release on August 9. The community hopes that the influx of players will not lead to increased cheating, aiming for a balanced gaming experience.

Tech Optimizer

July 29, 2025

Developer of Kapitano (Linux Virus Scanner) Abandons Ship

Kapitano, a user-friendly ship-themed virus scanner, has been officially shelved by its developer, zynequ, who cited negative experiences and personal attacks as reasons for discontinuation. The application, which served as a graphical user interface for the ClamAV scanning engine, received positive feedback but faced skepticism regarding the need for virus detection on Linux systems. The developer has released the source code into the public domain under The Unlicense, allowing others to continue its development. The app will be delisted from Flathub and marked as end-of-life, meaning it will no longer receive updates but will still function for existing users.

Winsage

July 13, 2025

I tried this Linux distro that looks like Windows, is made by a Microsoft engineer, and is based on Ubuntu

AnduinOS is a Linux distribution created by a former Microsoft engineer, designed to ease the transition from Windows to Linux. It is based on Ubuntu and offers two versions: a Long-Term Support (LTS) release and a short-term release that showcases the latest features. AnduinOS shifts from Snap packages to the Flatpak system for better application access and package management. The interface closely resembles Windows 11, featuring a desktop environment with a taskbar that combines a dock and status bar, a Start menu designed for smoother performance, and customization options for the taskbar and Arc menu. It utilizes GNOME extensions to enhance functionality, including an Extension Manager for easy installation of new features. AnduinOS is positioned as a suitable option for users transitioning from Windows due to its familiar interface and extensive customization capabilities.

AppWizard

July 12, 2025

My top 6 open-source Android apps from the Google Play Store – and why that’s important

Android supports a variety of open-source applications available on the Google Play Store. Notable open-source apps include: 1. Bitwarden: A password manager with open-source transparency, strong encryption, secure sharing, two-factor authentication, an intuitive interface, auto-fill capabilities, and a random password generator. It offers both free and paid versions. 2. Brave: A secure browser built on Chromium that prioritizes user privacy, includes an AI tool for summarizing websites, a toggleable VPN feature, and a privacy stats widget. It is free and resembles the Chrome interface. 3. Wavelet: An app for optimizing music playback through wireless earbuds, featuring preset sound profiles, AutoEQ, and a graphic equalizer. It is free and simplifies sound customization based on earbud models. 4. Tor Browser: A browser focused on privacy and anonymity, providing robust security layers, though it may be slower due to these protections. 5. KDE Connect: An app that connects Android devices with Linux systems for sharing clipboard content, files, URLs, and notifications, and allows remote command execution. It is freely available and compatible with various desktop environments. 6. ProtonVPN: A VPN service offering secure and private internet access, tracker blocking, and servers in over 110 countries. It has a free version with limitations and a subscription option for enhanced features.

Winsage

June 24, 2025

FileFix attack weaponizes Windows File Explorer for stealthy commands

A cybersecurity researcher named mr.d0x has introduced a new attack method called FileFix, which is a variant of the ClickFix social engineering attack. FileFix allows malicious actors to execute harmful commands on a victim's system through the Windows File Explorer address bar, rather than using the traditional method of pasting commands into PowerShell. The attack still relies on a phishing page, which masquerades as a notification about a shared file, prompting users to paste a path into File Explorer. Attackers can conceal the malicious PowerShell command by embedding it within a dummy file path in a comment, making it invisible in the address bar. Mr.d0x has also implemented measures in the proof-of-concept code to prevent users from selecting files during the attack. The ClickFix method has been effective in deploying malware, including ransomware and state-sponsored operations, with notable examples involving the North Korean hacker group Kimsuky and cybercriminals impersonating Booking.com. FileFix represents an evolution in phishing attacks by providing a more user-friendly interface for executing commands.

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.