Mozilla Archives

Winsage

April 5, 2025

ReactOS, an Open Source Take on Windows

ReactOS is an open-source operating system designed to be compatible with Windows, aiming to recreate the Windows experience while ensuring compatibility with existing software applications. The first stable release occurred in 2011, followed by a beta version in 2013 that improved support for 64-bit systems. By 2020, ReactOS reached a Technical Alpha milestone, indicating progress in stability and performance. The latest version resembles the outdated Windows XP interface, which may appeal to some users but lacks modern functionality. The ReactOS Application Manager allows users to install applications, but many popular software versions are outdated or incompatible. Users are advised to use the Application Manager for installations, as external downloads can lead to issues. ReactOS appeals to Windows users reluctant to switch to Linux or invest in new hardware, but it remains a work in progress with bugs and limited application support. The project invites contributions to enhance the user interface and application compatibility.

Winsage

March 28, 2025

Mozilla warns Windows users of critical Firefox sandbox escape flaw

Mozilla released Firefox version 136.0.4 to address a critical security vulnerability, CVE-2025-2857, which could allow attackers to escape the browser's sandbox on Windows systems. This flaw, identified by developer Andrew McCreight, affects both standard and extended support releases of Firefox. Mozilla patched this issue in Firefox 136.0.4 and Firefox ESR versions 115.21.1 and 128.8.1. The vulnerability is similar to a recent zero-day exploit in Google Chrome, CVE-2025-2783, which was used in cyber-espionage campaigns against Russian entities. Additionally, Mozilla previously addressed another zero-day vulnerability, CVE-2024-9680, exploited by the RomCom cybercrime group, allowing code execution within Firefox's sandbox. Earlier in the year, Mozilla responded to two zero-day vulnerabilities exploited during the Pwn2Own Vancouver 2024 hacking competition.

Winsage

March 9, 2025

Microsoft Weekly: Copilot updates, PowerToys updates, new Windows 11 builds, and more.

Windows 11 24H2 is experiencing performance throttling issues when applications are minimized, but the 0x80131500 Store error has been fixed. Windows 10 has regained its status as the most popular operating system on Steam, according to Valve's February 2025 survey. Microsoft has launched a native Copilot app for Windows 11 and 10 in the Insider program, featuring a XAML-based interface. PowerToys has been updated to version 0.89, enhancing tools like Advanced Paste and FancyZones. Microsoft Edge 134 has been released with improved Teams link handling, while Firefox 136 introduces vertical tabs and HEVC support for Linux users. Microsoft will discontinue Publisher in 2024 and has launched a support page for alternatives. The Xiaomi 15 smartphone received positive reviews for its build quality and fast-charging, while AMD's RX 9070 XT graphics card received a perfect score for performance. Upcoming Game Pass titles include Monster Train and Galacticare, and Amazon Prime Gaming is offering 20 PC games this month. A remake of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 and 4 is set to release on July 11.

Winsage

March 8, 2025

Nearly 1 million Windows devices targeted in advanced “malvertising” spree

A recent cyber campaign targeted nearly 1 million devices across various sectors, using GitHub as the primary platform for hosting malicious payloads, with Discord and Dropbox also involved. The malware exfiltrated sensitive information from infected systems, including critical browser files that store login cookies, passwords, and browsing histories. Compromised files included specific SQLite and JSON files from Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, and Microsoft Edge, as well as files stored on Microsoft's OneDrive. The malware also targeted cryptocurrency wallet applications like Ledger Live and Trezor Suite. Microsoft identified that the domains hosting malicious advertisements were linked to unauthorized streaming platforms. Microsoft Defender has been updated to detect the attack-related files, and guidance has been provided for those who may have been affected.

Winsage

March 6, 2025

Firefox users slam Mozilla over controversial data privacy update — while ironically using “the biggest data-mining operating system in the world (aka Microsoft Windows)”

Mozilla faced backlash from Firefox users over an update to its developer's Terms of Use, which included a clause allowing Mozilla to utilize user data. Users expressed concerns about data privacy due to the language stating a "nonexclusive, royalty-free, worldwide license" for user content. In response, Ajit Varma, VP of Firefox Product, clarified that the license was necessary for basic functionalities and did not imply ownership of user data. Despite attempts to address concerns, users remained unsettled, particularly due to changes in the FAQ section that altered Firefox's stance on selling personal data. Some users speculated that the changes might relate to Mozilla's potential AI initiatives, while Mozilla also criticized Microsoft for its promotion of Edge over other browsers.