methods Archives

AppWizard

July 25, 2025

Malicious Android Apps Mimic as Popular Indian Banking Apps Steal Login Credentials

Attackers are exploiting India's reliance on digital financial services by distributing counterfeit Android applications resembling those of public and private banks. This campaign, detected on April 3, 2025, employs methods like smishing texts, QR codes, and search-engine manipulation to trick users into sideloading malicious software. Within 48 hours of discovery, over 7,000 devices attempted to connect to a specific Firebase Cloud Messaging endpoint. The malware uses permissions to bypass security measures, capture one-time passwords, and gain insights into installed applications for overlay attacks. It collects sensitive information such as phone numbers and CVVs, which are uploaded to a private database. The malware also enables call forwarding to the attacker's number and maintains persistence through various tactics. The infection mechanism involves a dropper that installs a secondary APK silently, evading detection by not displaying a launcher icon. Security experts recommend enhanced phishing detection and real-time sandbox analysis to combat these threats.

Winsage

July 24, 2025

Update for Windows 11 brings more resilience (and Recall)

The optional update KB5062660 for Windows 11 version 24H2 introduces several new features, including Microsoft Recall in Europe, which allows users to export snapshots of their activities with a unique export code for privacy. The Click to Do functionality expands with a new Practice in Reading Coach feature and integration with Microsoft Teams for drafting messages. An AI agent is added to the settings app for Copilot+ PCs, while non-Copilot+ systems have a centered search bar for accessibility. The update includes rapid machine recovery options, enhancements to the Start menu, improved snap functionality, and a new Gamepad keyboard layout for gamers. It also resolves various issues from previous versions, including bugs in File Explorer and system stability problems. AI components related to Image Search, Content Extraction, and Semantic Analysis have been enhanced, and there are no known issues with this update. Features will be rolled out gradually to users.

Winsage

July 23, 2025

3 easy ways to turn Windows Terminal shells from drab to drip — customize both PowerShell and WSL with these same tools

- The Starship prompt enhances the command line experience with a sleek design, customization options, and compatibility across different shells. It requires a NerdFont for effective operation and can be installed via the Windows Package Manager for PowerShell or various package managers for WSL. Configuration involves adding specific commands to shell profiles and creating a configuration file. - Fastfetch is a lightweight system information display tool that serves as a modern alternative to Neofetch, supporting both Windows and Linux. Installation can be done through various package managers, and configuration is achieved by generating a config file. - Windows Terminal on Windows 11 can be customized for a more personalized experience, including theme changes, font adjustments, and transparency. Customizations can be made via the GUI or by editing a JSON configuration file. - To use Starship and Fastfetch upon startup in PowerShell, a PowerShell profile must be created using a specific command, allowing users to add necessary commands for these tools.

AppWizard

July 23, 2025

Google is taking the hackers to court over a major Android fraud ring

Google is suing unidentified hackers in China for hijacking over 10 million devices to create the BadBox 2.0 botnet. The botnet has been found on budget Android streamers, tablets, and projectors, either preloaded with malware or infected during setup through dubious apps. Google’s Play Protect now automatically blocks anything linked to BadBox 2.0. The lawsuit was filed in a New York federal court following investigations by Human Security and Trend Micro. Compromised devices include TV streamers, projectors, car infotainment systems, and digital photo frames, many of which originated from China. Hackers gain access to home networks by preloading malware or infiltrating devices during setup. The BadBox malware operates in the background, generating fraudulent ad clicks. Google is concerned about the financial burden of fake ad traffic and the impact on user trust and its reputation.

Tech Optimizer

July 22, 2025

Can A Hacker Take Over Your Computer? What to Know About Remote Access Trojans

Remote access trojans (RATs) are malware that allow hackers to control devices remotely, enabling them to steal passwords, monitor screens, log keystrokes, activate webcams or microphones, install additional malware, and use the computer for further cyber attacks. RATs typically enter systems through phishing, malicious downloads, fake updates, or compromised websites. Signs of a RAT infection include sluggish performance, unusual network activity, mysterious programs, unexpected pop-ups, and unexpected activation of camera or microphone lights. Preventive measures include being cautious with communications, downloading from reputable sources, using antivirus software, keeping software updated, and implementing a firewall. If a RAT is suspected, it is advised to disconnect from the internet, run a full antivirus scan, check installed programs, change passwords, and consider a factory reset. Smartphones can also be vulnerable to RATs, which may manifest as rapid battery drain, overheating, strange pop-ups, excessive data usage, and unfamiliar apps. Immediate actions for compromised phones include enabling airplane mode, deleting suspicious apps, and updating the operating system.

Winsage

July 22, 2025

9 features I want Microsoft to add and improve in Windows 11

Windows 11 has received several feature updates, with version 25H2 upcoming, but it still lacks many user-requested features. Key issues include: 1. Users want more control over Windows Update, including the ability to disable automatic updates or schedule them flexibly. 2. There is a demand for the option to set up devices with a local account instead of being forced to use a Microsoft account. 3. Users miss the ability to resize the Taskbar, which is currently fixed in size. 4. The option to relocate the Taskbar to the top of the screen has been removed, and users want this flexibility restored. 5. A fully consistent dark mode across the operating system is desired, along with customizable live tiles. 6. Users would benefit from charging limit options for laptops to extend battery lifespan. 7. The settings page for File Explorer needs modernization to align with the Windows 11 aesthetic. 8. There is a call for a variant of Windows 11 that supports older PCs that do not meet current hardware requirements.

Winsage

July 22, 2025

Microsoft 365 installs via Windows Store will stop getting updates

Microsoft is phasing out the Microsoft Store installation type for its Office applications in favor of the Click-to-Run model. New feature updates for Microsoft 365 apps via the Store will cease in October 2025, and security updates for this installation type will end in December 2026. Users are encouraged to migrate to Click-to-Run to maintain access to new features and security enhancements. Microsoft 365 applications can be installed through two methods: the Microsoft Store, which uses the Appx packaging format, and Click-to-Run, which employs a proprietary streaming .exe installer. Click-to-Run offers a virtualized application environment and is optimized for cloud-based management, particularly for enterprise customers. The transition to Click-to-Run reflects Microsoft's focus on enterprise solutions, emphasizing speed, scalability, and administrative control. Users can check their installation type by opening a Microsoft 365 application and navigating to File > Account. Upgrading from the Microsoft Store to Click-to-Run involves downloading the Office Deployment Tool, which removes the Store version and reinstalls Office using Click-to-Run. Regular users will see newer features without needing a new license, while IT administrators will benefit from streamlined deployment and enhanced control over updates and policies.

Winsage

July 21, 2025

How to use Windows Update for Business with Group Policy

Windows administrators need to keep their systems updated for security and performance, with control over the timing and type of updates being crucial. There are three primary methods for managing Windows updates: 1. Per-client updates: Default for standalone clients, offering minimal control. 2. Windows Server Update Services (WSUS): Centralized management since 2005, allowing extensive control but requiring more administrative effort. 3. Windows Update for Business (WUfB): A cloud-based model providing greater control through tools like Group Policy and Mobile Device Management (MDM). WUfB offers several advantages, including policy-based management, granular control over deployments, and the elimination of on-premises WSUS servers. To implement WUfB, organizations must meet specific requirements, including using Windows 10/11 Pro, Enterprise, or Team editions, Azure AD joining, and having the necessary licenses such as Microsoft 365 Business Premium. Administrators can defer feature updates for up to 365 days and quality updates for up to 30 days using Group Policy. They can create servicing rings for managing update deployments, such as testing, pilot, and rollout rings. Configuration involves creating Group Policy Objects (GPOs) linked to the appropriate Organizational Units (OUs) and setting relevant policies. WUfB reporting is available through the Azure Portal, allowing administrators to monitor update statuses and troubleshoot devices.

Winsage

July 21, 2025

Microsoft makes it easy to play Windows 11 audio through multiple devices

Microsoft is developing a feature called "Shared Audio" for Windows 11, which aims to simplify the process of outputting sound to multiple speakers simultaneously. This feature is currently available to Windows Insiders in the Dev or Beta channels and allows users to easily configure audio output across two sets of speakers. However, connecting three or more sets of speakers may still require additional setup. Screenshots of the feature have been shared by PhantomOfEarth, indicating a user-friendly interface. The broader rollout of this feature is anticipated soon.

Tech Optimizer

July 21, 2025

How Often Should You Update Your Antivirus Software?

Antivirus software protects devices from various digital threats, including viruses, Trojans, ransomware, and spyware. According to the 2025 Antivirus Statistics and Consumer Report, 75% of users believe their antivirus software effectively safeguards their devices. The effectiveness of antivirus software depends on the last update, as neglecting updates leaves devices vulnerable to emerging threats. Frequent updates are necessary because hackers continuously develop new malware. Failing to update antivirus software increases the risk of hacking and can degrade device performance. It is recommended to check for updates daily, perform manual checks weekly, and expect major updates every 3 to 6 months. Free antivirus software may offer limited protection and fewer updates, requiring users to be proactive in checking for updates.