network Archives

AppWizard

April 3, 2026

This is the best Google Pay feature you’re not using in India

Google Pay's Tap to Pay feature, launched in 2020, allows contactless payments using NFC technology. Initially compatible with only two banks, it now works with most major debit and credit cards in India. Users can add their cards to Google Pay, and payments can be made by selecting the card and tapping the phone near a point-of-sale machine. The feature supports most Visa and MasterCard cards issued in India, while American Express cards are excluded. There are no transaction limits, and a PIN is required for high-value transactions. The setup process involves adding card details and authenticating via SMS. Tap to Pay can also be used internationally, except in China.

AppWizard

April 3, 2026

Which messaging app takes the most limited approach to permissions on Android?

Messaging applications Messenger, Signal, and Telegram exhibit significant differences in permissions and operational behaviors that impact user privacy. Telegram has the fewest total permissions at 71, with 25 classified as dangerous; Signal requests 72 permissions, including 19 dangerous ones; and Messenger requests the most at 87, with 24 dangerous permissions. Messenger also has the highest number of vendor-specific unknown permissions. Access to sensitive resources is crucial for messaging functionalities, with permissions for contacts, camera, microphone, location, storage, and calendar being essential. Telegram and Messenger request additional system-level permissions, while Signal is more conservative and does not request certain permissions like phone-call control or overlay windows. The analysis, using the Mobile Security Framework (MobSF), indicates all three apps are in the medium risk category, with Messenger having more flagged issues. Telegram allows cleartext connections by default, potentially exposing traffic, while Signal uses encrypted connections by default and only permits limited cleartext traffic for certificate checks. Messenger's issues include world-writable files and remote debugging enabled in WebViews. Messenger uses third-party SDKs, while Signal and Telegram do not disclose third-party trackers. All three utilize Firebase Cloud Messaging for notifications without sensitive data leakage. Data exchange patterns show Messenger primarily routes traffic through North America, while Telegram and Signal focus on Europe with some additional connections in the U.S. and Asia.

AppWizard

April 3, 2026

Minecraft creator Notch says ‘DLSS fundamentally makes no sense’, but the X comments say ‘um, actually’

Markus Persson, known as Notch, criticized Nvidia's Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) technology on social media, arguing that it is illogical to use the same hardware that struggles to run games at reasonable speeds to operate a neural network for generating additional frames. He compared DLSS to anti-aliasing, suggesting both technologies complicate the rendering process. Nvidia's vice president, Bryan Catanzaro, highlighted a shift in the industry towards artificial intelligence to improve graphics rendering, stating that traditional methods are no longer sufficient. He emphasized the need for smarter approaches to optimize resource use in graphics rendering. Nick, a tester, is evaluating DLSS and Frame Generation, illustrating the GPU's workload in rendering versus AI interpolation of frames.

Winsage

April 2, 2026

Malwarebytes highlights Microsoft findings on WhatsApp attachments used in Windows attacks

A campaign targeting Windows users exploits WhatsApp attachments to execute a malicious .vbs script. Victims receive what appears to be a harmless attachment, which, when opened, duplicates legitimate Windows tools into a hidden folder and renames them to avoid detection. These tools are then used to download additional malware from reputable cloud services, disguising the malicious activity. The malware seeks administrator privileges by altering User Account Control settings and registry entries for persistence. It ultimately installs remote-access software and other payloads to maintain control over the compromised device. Malwarebytes recommends safety measures such as avoiding unsolicited attachments, enabling file extensions, using updated anti-malware tools, downloading software from official sites, being cautious of unexpected UAC prompts, and keeping systems updated.

Tech Optimizer

April 2, 2026

Cybersecurity expert highlights mobile device vulnerabilities

Cybersecurity expert John Joyce emphasizes the vulnerabilities of mobile devices, noting that many users mistakenly believe their smartphones are secure. He highlights that smartphones often serve as primary computing devices, storing sensitive personal information, which makes them attractive targets for cybercriminals. Joyce advises users to look for signs of compromise, such as device slowdowns or unusual app behavior, and to keep their devices updated with the latest operating systems and security patches to reduce risks. He recommends using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) when on public Wi-Fi and suggests utilizing security apps like Norton and TotalAV for additional protection. Joyce also points individuals to Cirrus Technology Consultants' online resources for further information on mobile cybersecurity.

AppWizard

April 2, 2026

How to use and deploy Android Work Profile in your business

The mobile device has become a dual-purpose tool for personal and professional needs, enhancing productivity but also introducing security challenges for organizations with bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies. Samsung addresses these challenges with its Android Work Profile feature, which separates business applications and data from personal content on devices like the Galaxy S26 Series, Galaxy Z Fold7, and Galaxy Z Flip7. Android Work Profile creates two isolated profiles on a single device, allowing IT teams to manage corporate applications while keeping personal information private. IT administrators can monitor work profile applications and data but cannot access personal profiles, ensuring employee privacy. Employees can easily switch between work and personal applications and activate a “pause work apps” feature during off-hours. To set up Android Work Profile, organizations need an Enterprise Mobility Management (EMM) solution and the Android Device Policy app. The Samsung Knox Suite provides tools for managing and securing devices, including Knox Mobile Enrollment and Knox Attestation. Android Work Profile benefits businesses by enhancing data security and reputation while promoting work-life balance for employees.

AppWizard

April 1, 2026

Google just announced Wear OS 6.1, and it adds a time zone feature I’ve wanted for years

Google has introduced Wear OS 6.1, which includes location-based time zone detection, allowing smartwatches to update time settings automatically based on the user's location without needing a paired smartphone. The update is based on Android 16 QPR2 and does not feature major visual changes. Additional features include a "Kids graduation" option for children's accounts and improved re-authentication processes. Wear OS 6.1 has not yet been rolled out but is expected to debut on the Pixel Watch 4 and later on older Pixel Watch models and Samsung's Galaxy Watch lineup.

Winsage

April 1, 2026

WhatsApp on Windows users targeted in new campaign, warns Microsoft

Microsoft researchers have identified a campaign that exploits WhatsApp attachments to infiltrate Windows machines, allowing attackers remote control. The attack uses social engineering tactics, where users receive a seemingly benign .vbs (Visual Basic Script) file that can be executed on Windows. This method does not rely on software vulnerabilities but on persuading victims to execute the malicious file. Attackers manipulate built-in Windows tools to download further malware, employing a technique known as living off the land (LOTL) to avoid detection. The malware seeks to elevate its privileges to administrator status, modifying User Account Control (UAC) prompts and registry settings for persistence. An unsigned MSI (Microsoft Installer) is deployed to establish remote-access software, granting continuous access to the compromised machine.

Winsage

April 1, 2026

Optimize Windows 11 with these 8 settings tweaks

Windows 11 holds a 62% share of the global Windows desktop market as of January 2026. Users can access the Settings menu by clicking the Start menu and typing "Settings." The Title bar shake feature, which minimizes all open windows when the mouse is jiggled while dragging a window, can be disabled under System > Multitasking. Users can end a task directly from the taskbar by enabling the feature in System > Advanced > End Task. The Start menu can be customized under Personalization > Start to feature more pinned applications and folder icons for frequently accessed directories. The Widgets feature can be disabled under Personalization > Taskbar. To clean up automatic startup applications, users should visit Apps > Startup and disable unnecessary applications. Accessibility settings allow users to increase screen scaling, adjust text size, restore the traditional scrollbar, customize mouse pointer size, and enable the Mouse indicator feature. Privacy can be enhanced by disabling ad tracking in Privacy & security > General. Windows Update settings can be optimized for multiple devices by adjusting Delivery Optimization under Windows Update > Advanced Options.

Tech Optimizer

April 1, 2026

Norton Review 2026: Solid Antivirus With Great Safe Browsing Tools and Parental Controls

Norton Antivirus has a score of 8.3/10. It offers extensive parental controls on some plans, cloud backups for sensitive data, and a high-quality safe browser. However, its identity theft protection features are limited to U.S. users, it has higher resource usage than most competitors, and reaching human customer support can be difficult. Norton provides a comprehensive cybersecurity suite that includes a password manager, safe browser, cloud backups, and privacy monitoring. Its antivirus software features real-time protection, manual and automated scans, and scan scheduling. Norton Family allows parents to implement controls on children's devices. Norton does not offer a free version but provides complimentary tools such as a password manager and data breach scan. Norton AntiVirus Plus is priced for basic security needs, while Norton 360 Standard and Deluxe offer additional features like dark web monitoring and enhanced parental controls. The setup process is user-friendly, and the software operates smoothly with moderate resource usage during scans. Norton’s additional tools include device optimization, a safe browser, and a privacy monitor, though some features may not meet expectations. Norton has received high marks in security rankings, maintaining a perfect security ranking from AV-Test for the past decade. It employs strong encryption protocols for its tools and adheres to a no-logs policy for its VPN. Customer support options include a community forum, knowledge base, and 24/7 live chat and phone support, though email support is absent. Norton’s pricing is competitive, especially for families, and it can cover up to 10 devices depending on the plan.