malware attack Archives

Tech Optimizer

January 8, 2026

These 5 expert-tested antivirus programs are less than $30 right now

Numerous antivirus providers are currently offering exceptional deals on reliable software, with prices comparable to a year’s subscription to Netflix's premium plan. Antivirus coverage is crucial as the financial repercussions of a malware attack can exceed the cost of subscriptions. Available antivirus solutions protect against malware, viruses, spyware, and phishing attempts, and may include features like a VPN, password manager, and identity protection. Comprehensive packages can support protection for up to 10 devices, with notable options including Norton 360 Premium, McAfee Total Protection, and Bitdefender Total Security. These programs provide robust real-time protection across various operating systems and include enhancements such as webcam protection, hardened browsers, and ransomware rollback.

Winsage

December 3, 2025

Microsoft mitigates Windows LNK flaw exploited as zero-day

Microsoft has addressed a security vulnerability in Windows tracked as CVE-2025-9491, which allows malicious actors to embed harmful commands in Windows LNK files, requiring user interaction to exploit. Threat actors often distribute these files in ZIP formats to bypass email security. In March 2025, 11 hacking groups, including Evil Corp and Kimsuky, were actively exploiting this vulnerability using various malware payloads. Although Microsoft initially did not consider the issue urgent, it later modified the handling of LNK files in November updates to allow users to view the entire character string in the Target field. However, this change does not eliminate the malicious arguments embedded in the files. ACROS Security has released an unofficial patch that restricts shortcut target strings to 260 characters and alerts users about risks associated with long target strings, covering multiple Windows versions.