location services Archives

Winsage

May 29, 2025

This is what data your Windows PC is actually sending back to Microsoft

Windows collects telemetry data, which includes hardware specifications, installed software, and system events, but does not reveal personally identifiable information. This data is encrypted and sent via HTTPS during significant events like system crashes. Users can manage optional data collection settings during initial setup or in the Privacy section of the Settings app, with enterprise versions offering more control. Mandatory data collection in Windows is more extensive than in macOS, while Linux has minimal data collection due to its decentralized structure. Users can disable some data collection, but some information will always be gathered unless advanced measures are taken.

Tech Optimizer

April 27, 2025

Why aren’t there antivirus apps for the iPhone?

In recent years, the belief that iOS devices are "immune" to viruses has been challenged as cybercriminals increasingly target these platforms. Apple’s security measures, including sandboxing, help isolate apps to prevent the spread of malware. The App Store is strictly controlled, with Apple reviewing apps for security compliance, resulting in few harmful applications being reported. Antivirus software available in the App Store, from companies like McAfee and Norton, operates under the same constraints as other apps and cannot directly access the operating system kernel. Users are advised to avoid jailbreaking their devices, enable automatic updates, and take precautions such as avoiding public charging stations and regularly reviewing app permissions. Utilizing a password manager or VPN can enhance security, and those who have experienced data breaches may consider identity theft protection.

AppWizard

April 10, 2025

SpyNote Android malware resurfaces in campaign using spoofed app install pages

A report from DomainTools LLC reveals that cybercriminals are using newly registered domains to distribute the SpyNote Android remote access trojan (RAT) by creating fake websites that resemble legitimate Google Play app installation pages. These counterfeit pages often include familiar visual elements to deceive users into downloading harmful APK files, such as a site mimicking the TikTok installation page. The downloaded files typically contain variants of SpyNote, which can conduct surveillance, harvest sensitive information, and execute remote commands on compromised devices. The delivery mechanism involves a two-stage process where a dropper APK installs a secondary APK with core spyware functionalities, utilizing JavaScript to trigger downloads from fake install buttons. Common characteristics of the domains distributing SpyNote include registration with NameSilo LLC and XinNet Technology Corp., hosting on infrastructure linked to Lightnode Ltd and Vultr Holdings LLC, and the presence of SSL certificates. The malware delivery sites contain code in both English and Chinese, suggesting a Chinese-speaking threat actor may be involved. SpyNote has been associated with advanced persistent threat groups targeting individuals in South Asia, including those in the Indian defense sector. Once installed, SpyNote requests intrusive permissions to access SMS, contacts, call logs, camera, microphone, and location services, and employs persistence mechanisms that make it difficult to remove. DomainTools advises users to be vigilant against spoofed app pages and avoid sideloading APKs from unverified sources.

Winsage

March 27, 2025

Windows 11 KB5053656 update released with 38 changes and fixes

Microsoft has released the KB5053656 preview cumulative update for Windows 11 24H2, featuring 38 enhancements, including real-time translation capabilities for Copilot+ PCs with AMD and Intel processors. This update addresses authentication issues and blue-screen errors, and is classified as an "optional non-security preview update." It introduces live captions and real-time translation support for over 44 languages, enhances Windows Search with improved capabilities, and fixes issues related to the MsiCloseHandle API and boot menu entries. The update also phases out the Location History feature and acknowledges known issues affecting Citrix components and Roblox on Windows Arm devices. Users can install the update via Windows Update or manually from the Microsoft Update Catalog. The update upgrades systems to build 26100.3624. Windows 11 24H2 is broadly deployed and accessible to all users.

Winsage

March 21, 2025

Windows 10 support ends soon. Here’s how to upgrade to Windows 11

Upon logging into Windows 11 for the first time, users encounter a dialog box prompting them to adjust settings related to location services and Microsoft’s data collection practices, which can be modified later in the Settings menu. The system encourages users to complete the installation by selecting Edge as the default browser and enabling OneDrive backup. Users can disable future prompts by navigating to Settings > System > Notifications > Additional settings. The desktop features a Taskbar at the bottom, with the Start menu and application icons centered on the screen, though they can be repositioned to the left. The Start menu has been redesigned, allowing users to view all installed programs in a list format by clicking the All apps button, but this view cannot be set as default. The Taskbar now combines multiple open windows within a program under a single icon, requiring users to hover over the icon to see the open windows. Users can revert to the old layout by adjusting settings in Settings > Personalization > Taskbar. Additional changes include a revamped notification system, new virtual desktop management settings, and updated file explorer features.

Winsage

March 11, 2025

How to enable Find My Device on Windows 10 to recover your PC if it’s ever lost or stolen

The "Find My Device" feature on Windows 10 helps users locate lost or stolen laptops and desktops by using location services to store the device's location in the cloud linked to a Microsoft account. To enable this feature, users must go to Settings > Update & Security > Find My Device, ensure location services are enabled, and toggle on the "Save my device's location periodically" option. To check the last known location, users can access the same Find My Device page and select the appropriate option to find their device. Disabling the feature involves toggling off the "Save my device's location periodically" option in the same settings menu. The feature requires an internet connection to function properly.

Winsage

February 23, 2025

12 Settings You Should Immediately Change On Your New Windows Laptop

Windows 11 introduces new features and settings that may require adjustments for user preferences. 1. To clean up the lock screen, go to Settings > Personalization > Lock Screen and set "Lock screen status" to "None" or select a relevant widget. Uncheck "Get fun facts, tips, tricks, and more on your lock screen" for a minimalist appearance. 2. To move the Start menu back to the left, navigate to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar and change the alignment to "Left." You can also customize pinned apps in the Start menu. 3. To trim down notifications, visit Settings > System > Notifications and disable unnecessary notifications or set up Do Not Disturb. 4. To disable the advertising ID, go to Settings > Privacy & Security > General and turn off "Let apps show me personalized ads by using my advertising ID." Also, disable "Show me suggested content in the settings app." 5. To reduce Windows location permissions, go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location and disable permissions for specific apps. 6. To disable inking and typing personalization, navigate to Settings > Privacy & Security > Inking and Typing Personalization and toggle it to "Off." Consider disabling "Online speech recognition" under Privacy & Security > Speech. 7. To turn off diagnostic and feedback settings, go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Diagnostics & feedback and turn off "Send optional diagnostic data." 8. To disable delivery optimization, navigate to Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options > Delivery optimization and set "Allow downloads from other PCs" to "Devices on my local network." 9. To disable Copilot, go to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar and toggle off Copilot or uninstall it via Apps > Installed Apps. 10. To disable Recall, navigate to Settings > Privacy & Security > Recall & Snapshots and turn off the "Save snapshots" toggle. 11. To remove unwanted apps, use tools like Geek Uninstaller or Revo Uninstaller to thoroughly uninstall applications and clean up leftover files. 12. PowerToys, a collection of utilities from Microsoft, can enhance productivity and can be downloaded from GitHub or the Microsoft Store. Disable any unused utilities after installation to conserve resources.

Winsage

February 19, 2025

Microsoft declutters Windows 11 File Explorer for GDPR

Microsoft released the Windows 11 24H2 preview build, 26120.3281, in the Dev and Beta channels, marking the end of the Location History API and addressing European privacy regulations. The Location History feature, which allowed Cortana to access location data for up to 24 hours, has been removed, meaning location data will no longer be saved locally. Microsoft has also disabled account-based content in File Explorer for Entra IDs within the European Economic Area (EEA) to comply with privacy laws, affecting sections like Recent, Favorites, and Recommended content. Additionally, a new feature will allow users to resume OneDrive files from mobile devices to PCs with one click, but an upcoming change will delete all existing snapshots in Recall. There is no timeline for when these updates will be available to the general public.

AppWizard

February 4, 2025

‘Let’s just delete all meta apps’: User shares little-known secret about Facebook Messenger

A TikTok video by user Jess (@slyguyjess) has raised concerns about Meta's data practices, claiming that by agreeing to Facebook Messenger's terms and conditions, users allow the app to access a "Wi-Fi map" that could identify all devices on the same network. The video has received 4.8 million views, leading many viewers to delete Facebook Messenger and other Meta platforms like Instagram and WhatsApp. Meta collects location information based on user settings and activity, and it can obtain data from the network a device connects to, including IP addresses and Wi-Fi connections. Users can enable location services for precise data via GPS, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi, but if disabled, Meta can only estimate approximate locations based on user activity and IP addresses.

Winsage

December 14, 2024

6 ways Windows 11 tracks your personal data and how to opt out

Windows 11 collects a significant amount of data, raising privacy concerns for some users. Essential data collection includes device models and diagnostic information, while a considerable portion is optional, allowing users to opt out. Windows 11 tracks browsing history only when using Microsoft Edge and logged into a Microsoft account, but does not track history on third-party browsers. Users can prevent this tracking by adjusting settings in Privacy & security. The operating system monitors connected devices, collecting information such as device names and network details. This tracking can also be disabled through the same settings. Location tracking is utilized by various apps and services, with users able to revoke permissions in Privacy & security settings. Windows 11 gathers data on app usage, including frequency and duration, which can be disabled through optional diagnostic data settings. The OS collects information about installed software to enhance diagnostics and performance, with users able to limit this collection in settings. Voice data is collected for voice recognition features, but this can be turned off in Privacy & Security settings, although it may limit access to certain apps.